To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he has considered how people who are dependent on the Independent Living Fund will maintain their independence from July 2015.

The UK Government decided to close the Independent Living Fund (ILF) with effect from 30 June 2015. I have made it very clear that my Department will do all it can to ensure that those in Northern Ireland who are affected by the decision of the Department for Work and Pensions are not disadvantaged.

My Department is currently undertaking a full and comprehensive public consultation on how best to support Independent Living Fund (ILF) users in Northern Ireland following the closure of the fund. The consultation closes on 30 November 2014 and I would encourage everyone to share their views on this crucial issue. Following consultation, I will carefully consider the results before deciding on the way forward.