To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what discussions he has had with (i) the Health and Social Care Board; (ii) Health and Social Care Trusts; and (iii) independent social care providers, regarding the impact of the increased national living wage on the social care sector.

The Department has recognised that the domiciliary care sector is currently facing significant challenges, including the introduction of the National Living Wage.

In response to these challenges the Health and Social Care Board has undertaken a regional review of domiciliary care provision in Northern Ireland. It is intended that the review will shape the future direction of domiciliary care provision, taking into account the financial and other challenges facing the sector. During the review the Board consulted with users and carers, trade unions and sector representatives, as well as liaising with Age NI, Patient and Client Council and the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland.

Once my officials have had an opportunity to consider the review they will provide me with recommendations for consideration in due course.