Tackling the cost-of-living crisis remains a priority for me and my Department, and it is important that people can benefit fully from the support available.
In my previous role as Finance Minister, I commissioned research by Ulster University on the cost of doing business in the North. It highlighted the significant pressures facing businesses, which have been exacerbated by British Government decisions, including the increase in employers’ National Insurance Contributions from April 2025. These pressures, alongside wider increases in household costs, continue to impact families and businesses across the North.
In terms of direct support being provided by my Department, the Household Electricity Discount Scheme will see households receiving £63 of electricity bill support this year. The discount will be automatically applied through electricity suppliers from 6 October, ensuring support is provided directly to domestic consumers without the need for an application.
I have also called on the British Government to take urgent action on rising fuel costs, including reducing fuel duty and VAT on road fuels to provide direct support to households and businesses.
Ahead of the Autumn Budget, I will continue to advocate for households and businesses across the North by pressing the British Government to bring forward a comprehensive package of measures to help with electricity, heating and transport costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%204049%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=502161","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=502161"}},{"id":"499497","reference":"AQW 52505/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-21","answerBy":"2026-10-06","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to independent domiciliary care commissioned by each Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT), to detail (i) any quality and training information providers must routinely submit to the HSCT; and (ii) whether the HSCT independently verify providers' reported staff training compliance, or does it principally rely on information supplied by the provider.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052505%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499497","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499497"}},{"id":"499496","reference":"AQW 52504/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-21","answerBy":"2026-10-06","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to when the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority identifies a failure by an independent provider, to detail any contractual process within the Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052504%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499496","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499496"}},{"id":"499495","reference":"AQW 52503/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-21","answerBy":"2026-10-06","answered":"2026-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of independent domiciliary care providers currently commissioned by Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCT) that have been subject to (i) review; and (ii) enforcement action, by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority, in each of the last three years, broken down by HSCT.","answerText":"RQIA does not hold details of the commissioning arrangements of HSC Trusts in relation to Home Care agencies.\n\nIn the last three years, RQIA undertook enforcement action* against four Home Care Agencies, based in the following HSC Trust areas:\n\nBHSCT\tNHSCT\tSEHSCT\tSHSCT\tWHSCT\tAgency based outside Northern Ireland\n2023-24\t0\t0\t1\t0\t0\t1\n2024-25\t0\t1\t1\t0\t0\t0\n2025-26\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\n\n*Enforcement action can include issuing a Failure to Comply Notice, Improvement Notice, placing conditions on the registration of a service or cancelling the registration of a service.","answerHtml":"RQIA does not hold details of the commissioning arrangements of HSC Trusts in relation to Home Care agencies.
In the last three years, RQIA undertook enforcement action* against four Home Care Agencies, based in the following HSC Trust areas:
| BHSCT | NHSCT | SEHSCT | SHSCT | WHSCT | Agency based outside Northern Ireland | |
| 2023-24 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| 2024-25 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2025-26 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
*Enforcement action can include issuing a Failure to Comply Notice, Improvement Notice, placing conditions on the registration of a service or cancelling the registration of a service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052503%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499495","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499495"}},{"id":"499044","reference":"AQW 52249/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-17","answerBy":"2026-09-22","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the overcrowding in the Emergency Departments in Altnagelvin Area Hospital and the South West Acute Hospital on 14 September 2026, as highlighted in a social media post by the Western Health and Social Care Trust, to detail any steps being taken to address this and to prevent it from happening again.","answerText":"My Department recognises the potential risks to patients associated with prolonged waits in emergency departments (EDs) and continues to work with Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts to improve patient flow across urgent and emergency care services. These risks were highlighted in the ‘Getting It Right First Time’ (GIRFT) Review of Emergency Medicine in Northern Ireland commissioned by my Department in 2023.\n\nIn response to ongoing pressures, all HSC Trusts have published their 2026-27 Winter Plans on their respective webpages. These plans set out the measures being implemented to manage the anticipated increase in demand, particularly within EDs, and include actions to improve patient flow, maintain patient safety and support delivery of services during the winter period.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the potential risks to patients associated with prolonged waits in emergency departments (EDs) and continues to work with Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts to improve patient flow across urgent and emergency care services. These risks were highlighted in the ‘Getting It Right First Time’ (GIRFT) Review of Emergency Medicine in Northern Ireland commissioned by my Department in 2023.
In response to ongoing pressures, all HSC Trusts have published their 2026-27 Winter Plans on their respective webpages. These plans set out the measures being implemented to manage the anticipated increase in demand, particularly within EDs, and include actions to improve patient flow, maintain patient safety and support delivery of services during the winter period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052249%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499044","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499044"}},{"id":"499043","reference":"AQW 52248/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-17","answerBy":"2026-10-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the overcrowding in the Emergency Departments in Altnagelvin Area Hospital and the South West Acute Hospital on 14 September 2026, as highlighted in a social media post by the Western Health and Social Care Trust, to detail the number of medically fit patients there were in each hospital on that day.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052248%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499043","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499043"}},{"id":"499042","reference":"AQW 52247/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-17","answerBy":"2026-10-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the overcrowding in the Emergency Departments in Altnagelvin Area Hospital and the South West Acute Hospital on 14 September 2026, as highlighted in a social media post by the Western Health and Social Care Trust, to detail any reasons why medically fit patients could not be discharged.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052247%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499042","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499042"}},{"id":"498774","reference":"AQW 52121/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-16","answerBy":"2026-10-01","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, on 14 September 2026, to detail the longest time that a patient had been medically fit but unable to be discharged from (i) Altnagelvin Area Hospital; and (ii) South West Acute Hospital.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052121%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498774","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498774"}},{"id":"499426","reference":"AQO 3947/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":"2026-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for their assessment of how the Executive Office has met its commitments under the joined-up approach outlined in the Programme for Government 2024-2027.","answerText":"The Executive Office has played an important role in bringing departments together around shared priorities. As a result, the Programme for Government is being delivered not as a collection of separate departmental actions, but as a genuinely shared effort to make life better for our people.","answerHtml":"The Executive Office has played an important role in bringing departments together around shared priorities. As a result, the Programme for Government is being delivered not as a collection of separate departmental actions, but as a genuinely shared effort to make life better for our people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203947%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499426","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499426"}},{"id":"496821","reference":"AQW 50957/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the pilot programme implementing National Institute of Health and Care Excellence TA943 guidance currently operating within the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, including when the findings will be published.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050957%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496821","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496821"}},{"id":"496820","reference":"AQW 50956/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the findings from the Belfast Hybrid Closed Loop pilot programme will inform the wider rollout of the Regional Insulin Pump Service.","answerText":"Yes, learning from the Belfast Hybrid Closed Loop pilot programme will inform the phased rollout of Hybrid Closed Loop technology by the Regional Insulin Pump Service.\n\nThe pilot will help refine operational arrangements, including patient onboarding, workforce and training requirements, and the monitoring of service outcomes. This learning will be considered alongside the recommendations in National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Technology Appraisal 943, the regional five-year implementation plan which is in development, clinical need and available resources, to support safe, effective and equitable implementation across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Yes, learning from the Belfast Hybrid Closed Loop pilot programme will inform the phased rollout of Hybrid Closed Loop technology by the Regional Insulin Pump Service.
The pilot will help refine operational arrangements, including patient onboarding, workforce and training requirements, and the monitoring of service outcomes. This learning will be considered alongside the recommendations in National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Technology Appraisal 943, the regional five-year implementation plan which is in development, clinical need and available resources, to support safe, effective and equitable implementation across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050956%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496820","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496820"}},{"id":"496819","reference":"AQW 50955/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the £1.839 million annual funding allocated to deliver the Regional Insulin Pump Service will be provided annually.","answerText":"The £1.839 million secured to support the implementation of Hybrid Closed Loop technology through the Regional Insulin Pump Service is recurrent funding and will therefore be provided annually.\n\nThe funding will support the cost of the technology and the additional regional workforce required to deliver it safely, effectively and equitably across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The £1.839 million secured to support the implementation of Hybrid Closed Loop technology through the Regional Insulin Pump Service is recurrent funding and will therefore be provided annually.
The funding will support the cost of the technology and the additional regional workforce required to deliver it safely, effectively and equitably across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050955%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496819","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496819"}},{"id":"496818","reference":"AQW 50954/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":"2026-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any safeguards that are in place to ensure that decisions regarding continuous glucose monitoring technologies are based on individual clinical need and patient outcomes, rather than cost.","answerText":"Decisions regarding continuous glucose monitoring technologies are made by the patient’s Health and Social Care Trust clinical team, in consultation with the patient and, where appropriate, their parent or carer. These decisions take account of the individual’s clinical needs, circumstances and ability to use the technology safely and effectively.\n\nFor Hybrid Closed Loop systems, patients must meet the eligibility criteria set out in National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Technology Appraisal 943. The most appropriate system is then determined through discussion between the patient and their clinical team, taking account of clinical suitability, expected patient benefit and the technologies available through the relevant procurement arrangements.\n\nThe phased implementation of Hybrid Closed Loop technology will also be supported by regional clinical criteria, structured education, ongoing clinical review and the monitoring of clinical and quality-of-life outcomes. These arrangements are intended to support safe, effective and equitable access across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Decisions regarding continuous glucose monitoring technologies are made by the patient’s Health and Social Care Trust clinical team, in consultation with the patient and, where appropriate, their parent or carer. These decisions take account of the individual’s clinical needs, circumstances and ability to use the technology safely and effectively.
For Hybrid Closed Loop systems, patients must meet the eligibility criteria set out in National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Technology Appraisal 943. The most appropriate system is then determined through discussion between the patient and their clinical team, taking account of clinical suitability, expected patient benefit and the technologies available through the relevant procurement arrangements.
The phased implementation of Hybrid Closed Loop technology will also be supported by regional clinical criteria, structured education, ongoing clinical review and the monitoring of clinical and quality-of-life outcomes. These arrangements are intended to support safe, effective and equitable access across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050954%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496818"}},{"id":"496472","reference":"AQW 50684/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-02","answerBy":"2026-09-17","answered":"2026-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of patients who were medically fit for discharge but remained in hospital due to delays in accessing community or social care since the introduction of the release to rescue policy, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"My Department does not currently hold this information in a format that would enable a breakdown to be provided as requested.\n\nThe implementation of Encompass has affected the availability of some operational management information, including data relating to patients who are medically fit for discharge but remain in hospital awaiting community or social care support. Work is ongoing to develop and validate reporting arrangements for these measures.\n\nWhile Trusts continue to manage and review individual patients who are medically fit for discharge through local discharge management and patient flow processes, a validated regional dataset is not currently available to provide the information requested.","answerHtml":"My Department does not currently hold this information in a format that would enable a breakdown to be provided as requested.
The implementation of Encompass has affected the availability of some operational management information, including data relating to patients who are medically fit for discharge but remain in hospital awaiting community or social care support. Work is ongoing to develop and validate reporting arrangements for these measures.
While Trusts continue to manage and review individual patients who are medically fit for discharge through local discharge management and patient flow processes, a validated regional dataset is not currently available to provide the information requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050684%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496472","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496472"}},{"id":"496471","reference":"AQW 50683/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-02","answerBy":"2026-09-17","answered":"2026-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 15429/22-27, whether the regional medical workforce review of consultants, specialists and associated specialists has completed the review of cardiology staffing needs.","answerText":"As noted in response to AQW 47621/22-27, the Public Health Agency (PHA) has been carrying out a strategic workforce review of cardiology, with a primary focus on medical workforce, as part of my Department’s programme of strategic workforce reviews. This is a separate exercise from the previously referenced staffing baseline work undertaken by the Northern Ireland Cardiac Network. When that process is completed, the review report will be published on my Department’s website.","answerHtml":"As noted in response to AQW 47621/22-27, the Public Health Agency (PHA) has been carrying out a strategic workforce review of cardiology, with a primary focus on medical workforce, as part of my Department’s programme of strategic workforce reviews. This is a separate exercise from the previously referenced staffing baseline work undertaken by the Northern Ireland Cardiac Network. When that process is completed, the review report will be published on my Department’s website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050683%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496471","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496471"}},{"id":"496470","reference":"AQW 50682/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-02","answerBy":"2026-09-17","answered":"2026-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the Northern Ireland Cardiology Network's future workplan, including whether workstreams have any funding secured.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Cardiology Network continues to address key priorities in relation to the management of cardiac-related issues across the region. The Network’s focus remains on supporting equitable care and regionally standardised approaches to cardiac treatments and condition management, in line with its workplan.\n\nHowever, in response to immediate service pressures within cardiology and cardiac surgery, the Network has had to reprioritise its planned work and provide increased oversight and support to ensure that patient safety and service continuity are maintained. Funding is in place for the existing workstreams; however, in the context of current financial constraints, no additional workstreams have secured funding currently.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Cardiology Network continues to address key priorities in relation to the management of cardiac-related issues across the region. The Network’s focus remains on supporting equitable care and regionally standardised approaches to cardiac treatments and condition management, in line with its workplan.
However, in response to immediate service pressures within cardiology and cardiac surgery, the Network has had to reprioritise its planned work and provide increased oversight and support to ensure that patient safety and service continuity are maintained. Funding is in place for the existing workstreams; however, in the context of current financial constraints, no additional workstreams have secured funding currently.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050682%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496470","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496470"}},{"id":"496280","reference":"AQW 50578/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-01","answerBy":"2026-09-09","answered":"2026-09-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail when he intends to publish the Winter Preparedness Plan for 2026-27.","answerText":"Responsibility for developing, approving, and publishing winter preparedness plans rests with the individual Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts. My Department provides strategic direction and oversight, and clear Surge Planning Guidance for Winter 2026/27 was issued to the HSC Chief Executives on 28th July 2026.\n\nMy Department and the Public Health Agency will support the HSC Trusts in the development of their winter operational delivery plans. Trusts have been asked to publish their Winter Preparedness Plan by 18th September 2026. As in previous years, public support is sought to do everything possible to help protect our HSC system, including utilising community services, where available, and getting vaccinated, if eligible.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for developing, approving, and publishing winter preparedness plans rests with the individual Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts. My Department provides strategic direction and oversight, and clear Surge Planning Guidance for Winter 2026/27 was issued to the HSC Chief Executives on 28th July 2026.
My Department and the Public Health Agency will support the HSC Trusts in the development of their winter operational delivery plans. Trusts have been asked to publish their Winter Preparedness Plan by 18th September 2026. As in previous years, public support is sought to do everything possible to help protect our HSC system, including utilising community services, where available, and getting vaccinated, if eligible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050578%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496280","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496280"}},{"id":"496279","reference":"AQW 50577/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-01","answerBy":"2026-09-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the average ambulance handover time at each Emergency Department (i) prior to; and (ii) since, the introduction of the release to rescue policy, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050577%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496279","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496279"}},{"id":"496278","reference":"AQW 50576/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-01","answerBy":"2026-09-16","answered":"2026-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of patients who have waited more than 12 hours in an Emergency Department since the introduction of the release to rescue policy, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Release to Rescue was implemented by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) on 27 April 2026. Information on the number of Emergency Department (ED) attendances waiting more than 12 hours is published in the Northern Ireland waiting times statistics: Emergency Care waiting times report, which is available on the Department of Health website at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/emergency-care-waiting-times. The report includes data from April 2026 onwards and breakdowns by HSC Trust are available via the “Interactive Emergency Care Data” link.","answerHtml":"Release to Rescue was implemented by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) on 27 April 2026. Information on the number of Emergency Department (ED) attendances waiting more than 12 hours is published in the Northern Ireland waiting times statistics: Emergency Care waiting times report, which is available on the Department of Health website at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/emergency-care-waiting-times. The report includes data from April 2026 onwards and breakdowns by HSC Trust are available via the “Interactive Emergency Care Data” link.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050576%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496278","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496278"}},{"id":"496277","reference":"AQW 50575/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-01","answerBy":"2026-09-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of people waiting for a first adult mental health assessment who have (i) contacted crisis services; (ii) attended Emergency Departments; and (iii) required urgent intervention while awaiting assessment, in the last five years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050575%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496277","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496277"}},{"id":"496276","reference":"AQW 50574/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-01","answerBy":"2026-09-16","answered":"2026-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the proportion of people referred for an adult mental health assessment who have been removed from waiting lists before being seen, including the reasons for removal, in the last five years.","answerText":"The information requested is not held centrally and therefore cannot be provided in the format requested.\n\nReferrals for adult mental health assessments, including the management of waiting lists and any decisions to remove individuals from those waiting lists, are managed locally by each HSC Trust in accordance with regional Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) guidance and relevant operational procedures.\n\nFurthermore, following the implementation of the Encompass system across all HSC Trusts, historical waiting list data is not available in a format that would enable the information requested to be extracted and validated consistently across the region. As a result, my Department is unable to provide reliable figures on the number or proportion of individuals removed from adult mental health assessment waiting lists before being seen, or the reasons for their removal, for the period requested.","answerHtml":"The information requested is not held centrally and therefore cannot be provided in the format requested.
Referrals for adult mental health assessments, including the management of waiting lists and any decisions to remove individuals from those waiting lists, are managed locally by each HSC Trust in accordance with regional Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) guidance and relevant operational procedures.
Furthermore, following the implementation of the Encompass system across all HSC Trusts, historical waiting list data is not available in a format that would enable the information requested to be extracted and validated consistently across the region. As a result, my Department is unable to provide reliable figures on the number or proportion of individuals removed from adult mental health assessment waiting lists before being seen, or the reasons for their removal, for the period requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050574%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496276","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496276"}},{"id":"493677","reference":"AQW 50142/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-07-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of referrals for adult mental health assessment that were received; and (ii) the proportion of which that were assessed within his Department’s target timeframe, in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Referrals received by Adult Mental Health Services, by HSC Trusts - 2021/22 to 2025/26\n\nHealth and Social Care Trust\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\t2024/25\t2025/26\nBelfast\t12,559\t13,208\t14,445\t2,294*\t-\nNorthern\t-\t1931*\t11,001\t6,285*\t-\nSouth Eastern\t18,024\t17,165\t11,029*\t-\t-\nSouthern\t6,680\t8,913\t9,686\t10,981\t-\nWestern\t9,333\t9,719\t9,886\t10,365\t748*\n\nSource Manual HSC Trust returns\n\nCaveats and explanatory notes relating to the information presented within the table are provided below. Figures denoted by an asterisk (*) relate to part-year data only.\n\nPlease note that the information presented in this response is management information and not intended for publication.\n\nBelfast HSC Trust: A total of 2,294* referrals were reported for the two-month period of April 24 and May 24. Data for the period June 2024 to March 2026 is unavailable due to the implementation of Encompass.\n\nNorthern HSC Trust: Data for the period March 2021 to January 2023 is unavailable due to issues encountered during the migration from EPEX to PARIS. A total of 1,931 referrals was reported for the two-month period of February 23 and March 23. A figure of 6,285* was reported for the period April 24 - October 24. Data for November 24 to March 26 is unavailable due to the implementation of Encompass.\n\nSouth-Eastern HSC Trust: A total figure of 11,029* was reported for the period April 23-October 23. Data for the period November 23 to March 26 is unavailable due to the implementation of Encompass.\n\nSouthern HSC Trust: Data for the period April 25 to March 26 is unavailable due to the implementation of Encompass.\n\nWestern HSC Trust: A figure of 748* was reported for the single month of April 25. Data for the period May 25 to March 26 is unavailable due to the implementation of Encompass.\n\nAs part of the Encompass roll-out, all Trusts have now gone live with a new electronic patient record system. However, as the Trusts continue to transition to completely digitised records, their data is undergoing extensive validation and as this process continues, there are gaps in the data that Trusts have been able to submit for monitoring purposes.\n\nThe Strategic Planning and Performance Group does not hold this information and is therefore unable to provide it.","answerHtml":"Referrals received by Adult Mental Health Services, by HSC Trusts - 2021/22 to 2025/26
| Health and Social Care Trust | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 | 2025/26 |
| Belfast | 12,559 | 13,208 | 14,445 | 2,294* | - |
| Northern | - | 1931* | 11,001 | 6,285* | - |
| South Eastern | 18,024 | 17,165 | 11,029* | - | - |
| Southern | 6,680 | 8,913 | 9,686 | 10,981 | - |
| Western | 9,333 | 9,719 | 9,886 | 10,365 | 748* |
Source Manual HSC Trust returns
Caveats and explanatory notes relating to the information presented within the table are provided below. Figures denoted by an asterisk (*) relate to part-year data only.
Please note that the information presented in this response is management information and not intended for publication.
Belfast HSC Trust: A total of 2,294* referrals were reported for the two-month period of April 24 and May 24. Data for the period June 2024 to March 2026 is unavailable due to the implementation of Encompass.
Northern HSC Trust: Data for the period March 2021 to January 2023 is unavailable due to issues encountered during the migration from EPEX to PARIS. A total of 1,931 referrals was reported for the two-month period of February 23 and March 23. A figure of 6,285* was reported for the period April 24 - October 24. Data for November 24 to March 26 is unavailable due to the implementation of Encompass.
South-Eastern HSC Trust: A total figure of 11,029* was reported for the period April 23-October 23. Data for the period November 23 to March 26 is unavailable due to the implementation of Encompass.
Southern HSC Trust: Data for the period April 25 to March 26 is unavailable due to the implementation of Encompass.
Western HSC Trust: A figure of 748* was reported for the single month of April 25. Data for the period May 25 to March 26 is unavailable due to the implementation of Encompass.
As part of the Encompass roll-out, all Trusts have now gone live with a new electronic patient record system. However, as the Trusts continue to transition to completely digitised records, their data is undergoing extensive validation and as this process continues, there are gaps in the data that Trusts have been able to submit for monitoring purposes.
The Strategic Planning and Performance Group does not hold this information and is therefore unable to provide it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050142%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493677","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493677"}},{"id":"493676","reference":"AQW 50141/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-08-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any systems that are in place to identify patients whose mental health deteriorates while waiting for assessment; and (ii) the number of patients who have been escalated for urgent review, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"(i)The Health and Social Care Trusts provided the following responses:\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust\n\nWhen a referral is received from a GP requesting an initial assessment every referral is triaged and priority given as indicated by the clinical information. If a person’s presentation deteriorates the current mechanism is that the GP as the referral agent can submit additional information that will inform a more urgent appointment.\n\nNorthern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nWhere an individual’s mental health deteriorates while waiting for an assessment via the Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) they can be referred or self-present to the Urgent Mental Health Service (comprising of the Crisis Resolution & Home Treatment Team or the Mental Health Liaison Service). The Urgent Mental Health Service is operational 24/7 and provides urgent community mental health assessment within 4 hours of referral or within 2 hours of referral via Antrim or Causeway Emergency Departments.\n\nSouth Eastern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nThe South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust operates a range of clinical screening, triage, prioritisation and risk management processes to support the identification and management of individuals whose mental health may deteriorate while awaiting assessment. Referrals are clinically reviewed on receipt and prioritised according to presenting need and level of risk. Referrals may be re-prioritised where additional information is received from referrers, service users, carers or other professionals indicating an increase in risk or clinical need.\n\nCommunity Mental Health Services do not routinely monitor individuals from the point of referral until assessment. Whilst a patient is awaiting assessment, the GP remains the primary coordinator of the individual's care. Patients, family members and carers are advised to contact their GP if there is any deterioration in mental health or increase in risk. GPs can provide further assessment, arrange appropriate intervention and, where required, escalate referrals for urgent clinical review. Individuals may also present to Emergency Departments in the event of an acute mental health crisis.\n\nAny new information received by Trust services relating to a patient's presentation or risk is reviewed by clinical staff and, where appropriate, referrals may be escalated for urgent consideration. Established clinical governance, risk assessment and triage arrangements support this process.\n\nWithin Healthcare in Prison, those living in prison have access to a range of supports designed to identify and respond to any deterioration in mental health while awaiting assessment. These include 24-hour access to primary care nursing services, support from Northern Ireland Prison Service staff, and access during core hours to Healthcare in Prison staff, Healthcare Information Mentors (ASK HIM), Healthcare Education Mentors (ASK HER), and voluntary and community sector supports. Patients of concern are discussed through daily Healthcare in Prison safety huddles and clinical handovers, with multidisciplinary meetings convened where there are significant concerns regarding an individual's presentation. Routine referrals can be escalated and prioritised for urgent assessment where there is evidence of deterioration in a patient's mental health or level of risk\n\nSouthern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nReferrals are triaged and allocated based on clinical presentation and reported risk. Service users receive a letter detailing their triage outcome, relevant contact numbers, and coping advice for deteriorating mood.\n\nIf waiting times exceed ministerial targets, the Trust will issue a \"breach letter.\" This confirms the patient remains on the waiting list and reiterates support contacts and crisis advice. The Trust has clear processes in place for updating waiting list priority should they become aware of change to risk profile for the person waiting assessment.\n\nFor individuals on a waiting list for an initial mental health assessment who have experienced a deterioration in their mental health while waiting, the receiving care team are often unaware unless additional information/new referral is received, emergency presentation occurs, or the individual/ carer contact services.\n\nWestern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nWithin WHSCT, if a patient’s mental health deteriorates whilst awaiting assessment, the GP can refer the patient to the WHSCT Primary Care Liaison Service (PCLS) for an urgent assessment or alternatively the GP may refer the patient to the Emergency Department for a Crisis assessment who then would signpost to possible admission to hospital, Home Treatment Team, Community Mental Health Teams or the Community and Voluntary sector for support as per assessed need.\n\nPlease note the WHSCT crisis service operates 24/7 and patients can also self-present to Emergency Departments for assessment if required.\n\nIf a patient has been on a previous waiting list and presents or is flagged through any of the above mechanisms, multi-disciplinary meetings are arranged to identify appropriate next steps for the patients assessed need.\n\n(ii)The Health and Social Care Trusts provided the following responses:\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust\n\nThis data is not gathered. There are 50 available “urgent” appointments available across two Assessment Centre sites weekly\n\nNorthern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nThe number of people in the NHSCT who attend for urgent review within urgent mental health services and CMHTs due to a concern regarding their Mental Health is detailed below for the last three years.\n\nYear\tTotal CMHT / CMHOP Same Day assessments\tTotal Mental Health Liaison Referrals\tTotal Crisis Resolution Home Treatment Team\nReferrals\nApril 23 -March 24\t3416\t5312\t3402\nApril 24- March 25\t*\t5267\t3409\nApril25 – March 26\t*\t5506\t3266\n\n*Due to how data is inputted on Encompass from 07/11/2024 by community teams, this figure cannot be provided as data quality remains poor.\n\nSouth Eastern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nThe Trust does not routinely collect or report data on the number of patients whose referrals have been escalated from routine to urgent review whilst awaiting assessment within Community Mental Health Services. Current reporting systems can identify referrals assigned an urgent priority but do not provide reporting on subsequent escalation activity; therefore, the requested figures are not available.\n\nWithin Healthcare in Prison, the number of referrals escalated from routine to urgent review following a deterioration in clinical presentation is not routinely reported through central performance systems. However, based on local operational knowledge, it is estimated that approximately three to five patients per year had their referral escalated from routine to urgent review in each of the last three years. This figure should be regarded as an estimate rather than a validated performance measure.\n\nThis response reflects information available within Community Mental Health Services and Healthcare in Prison at the time of reporting.\n\nSouthern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nThe Trust cannot report on the number of escalated referrals from either Encompass or PARIS.\n\nWestern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nPrimary Care Liaison: Urgent Referrals Received\n\nTotal Referrals Received\t2023/24\t2024/25\t2025/26\n2,385\t2,283\t1,909\n\nNB- Since the implementation of the new Encompass regional programme on the 8th May 2025, the Western Trust continues to undertake extensive data validation with service teams and the 2025/26 data supplied in this response may be subject to change.","answerHtml":"(i)The Health and Social Care Trusts provided the following responses:
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust
When a referral is received from a GP requesting an initial assessment every referral is triaged and priority given as indicated by the clinical information. If a person’s presentation deteriorates the current mechanism is that the GP as the referral agent can submit additional information that will inform a more urgent appointment.
Northern Health and Social Care Trust
Where an individual’s mental health deteriorates while waiting for an assessment via the Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) they can be referred or self-present to the Urgent Mental Health Service (comprising of the Crisis Resolution & Home Treatment Team or the Mental Health Liaison Service). The Urgent Mental Health Service is operational 24/7 and provides urgent community mental health assessment within 4 hours of referral or within 2 hours of referral via Antrim or Causeway Emergency Departments.
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust
The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust operates a range of clinical screening, triage, prioritisation and risk management processes to support the identification and management of individuals whose mental health may deteriorate while awaiting assessment. Referrals are clinically reviewed on receipt and prioritised according to presenting need and level of risk. Referrals may be re-prioritised where additional information is received from referrers, service users, carers or other professionals indicating an increase in risk or clinical need.
Community Mental Health Services do not routinely monitor individuals from the point of referral until assessment. Whilst a patient is awaiting assessment, the GP remains the primary coordinator of the individual's care. Patients, family members and carers are advised to contact their GP if there is any deterioration in mental health or increase in risk. GPs can provide further assessment, arrange appropriate intervention and, where required, escalate referrals for urgent clinical review. Individuals may also present to Emergency Departments in the event of an acute mental health crisis.
Any new information received by Trust services relating to a patient's presentation or risk is reviewed by clinical staff and, where appropriate, referrals may be escalated for urgent consideration. Established clinical governance, risk assessment and triage arrangements support this process.
Within Healthcare in Prison, those living in prison have access to a range of supports designed to identify and respond to any deterioration in mental health while awaiting assessment. These include 24-hour access to primary care nursing services, support from Northern Ireland Prison Service staff, and access during core hours to Healthcare in Prison staff, Healthcare Information Mentors (ASK HIM), Healthcare Education Mentors (ASK HER), and voluntary and community sector supports. Patients of concern are discussed through daily Healthcare in Prison safety huddles and clinical handovers, with multidisciplinary meetings convened where there are significant concerns regarding an individual's presentation. Routine referrals can be escalated and prioritised for urgent assessment where there is evidence of deterioration in a patient's mental health or level of risk
Southern Health and Social Care Trust
Referrals are triaged and allocated based on clinical presentation and reported risk. Service users receive a letter detailing their triage outcome, relevant contact numbers, and coping advice for deteriorating mood.
If waiting times exceed ministerial targets, the Trust will issue a "breach letter." This confirms the patient remains on the waiting list and reiterates support contacts and crisis advice. The Trust has clear processes in place for updating waiting list priority should they become aware of change to risk profile for the person waiting assessment.
For individuals on a waiting list for an initial mental health assessment who have experienced a deterioration in their mental health while waiting, the receiving care team are often unaware unless additional information/new referral is received, emergency presentation occurs, or the individual/ carer contact services.
Western Health and Social Care Trust
Within WHSCT, if a patient’s mental health deteriorates whilst awaiting assessment, the GP can refer the patient to the WHSCT Primary Care Liaison Service (PCLS) for an urgent assessment or alternatively the GP may refer the patient to the Emergency Department for a Crisis assessment who then would signpost to possible admission to hospital, Home Treatment Team, Community Mental Health Teams or the Community and Voluntary sector for support as per assessed need.
Please note the WHSCT crisis service operates 24/7 and patients can also self-present to Emergency Departments for assessment if required.
If a patient has been on a previous waiting list and presents or is flagged through any of the above mechanisms, multi-disciplinary meetings are arranged to identify appropriate next steps for the patients assessed need.
(ii)The Health and Social Care Trusts provided the following responses:
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust
This data is not gathered. There are 50 available “urgent” appointments available across two Assessment Centre sites weekly
Northern Health and Social Care Trust
The number of people in the NHSCT who attend for urgent review within urgent mental health services and CMHTs due to a concern regarding their Mental Health is detailed below for the last three years.
| Year | Total CMHT / CMHOP Same Day assessments | Total Mental Health Liaison Referrals | Total Crisis Resolution Home Treatment Team Referrals |
| April 23 -March 24 | 3416 | 5312 | 3402 |
| April 24- March 25 | * | 5267 | 3409 |
| April25 – March 26 | * | 5506 | 3266 |
*Due to how data is inputted on Encompass from 07/11/2024 by community teams, this figure cannot be provided as data quality remains poor.
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust
The Trust does not routinely collect or report data on the number of patients whose referrals have been escalated from routine to urgent review whilst awaiting assessment within Community Mental Health Services. Current reporting systems can identify referrals assigned an urgent priority but do not provide reporting on subsequent escalation activity; therefore, the requested figures are not available.
Within Healthcare in Prison, the number of referrals escalated from routine to urgent review following a deterioration in clinical presentation is not routinely reported through central performance systems. However, based on local operational knowledge, it is estimated that approximately three to five patients per year had their referral escalated from routine to urgent review in each of the last three years. This figure should be regarded as an estimate rather than a validated performance measure.
This response reflects information available within Community Mental Health Services and Healthcare in Prison at the time of reporting.
Southern Health and Social Care Trust
The Trust cannot report on the number of escalated referrals from either Encompass or PARIS.
Western Health and Social Care Trust
Primary Care Liaison: Urgent Referrals Received
| Total Referrals Received | 2023/24 | 2024/25 | 2025/26 |
| 2,385 | 2,283 | 1,909 |
NB- Since the implementation of the new Encompass regional programme on the 8th May 2025, the Western Trust continues to undertake extensive data validation with service teams and the 2025/26 data supplied in this response may be subject to change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050141%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493676","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493676"}},{"id":"493675","reference":"AQW 50140/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-07-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of (i) consultant psychiatrists; (ii) psychologists; (iii) mental health nurses; and (iv) other clinical staff, posts involved in adult mental health assessment which are currently vacant, in each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Information on Health and Social Care (HSC) vacancies actively being recruited by staff group and organisation, including a breakdown of consultant and SAS doctor vacancies by medical specialty, is published by my Department on a quarterly basis. This information includes vacancies in easily identifiable mental health professions, for example mental health nursing, clinical psychology and psychiatry, however there are a vast number of roles involved in the assessment of patients within mental health services. The latest information available, which relates to the position on 31 March 2026, can be found at the link below and includes an interactive dashboard.\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/staff-vacancies","answerHtml":"Information on Health and Social Care (HSC) vacancies actively being recruited by staff group and organisation, including a breakdown of consultant and SAS doctor vacancies by medical specialty, is published by my Department on a quarterly basis. This information includes vacancies in easily identifiable mental health professions, for example mental health nursing, clinical psychology and psychiatry, however there are a vast number of roles involved in the assessment of patients within mental health services. The latest information available, which relates to the position on 31 March 2026, can be found at the link below and includes an interactive dashboard.
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/staff-vacancies
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050140%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493675","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493675"}},{"id":"492719","reference":"AQW 49595/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) how (a) the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031; (b) the Regional Mental Health Service model; and (c) the Neighbourhood Model of Health and Wellbeing, is being implemented as a single integrated system, rather than running in parallel; and (ii) who is accountable for ensuring mental health is fully embedded within the Neighbourhood Model of Health and Wellbeing.","answerText":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 (MHS), the Regional Mental Health Service (RMHS) and the Neighbourhood Model are not intended to operate as separate or parallel programmes. The RMHS supports implementation of the Mental Health Strategy by driving greater consistency, integration and collaboration across mental health services, while the Neighbourhood Model provides the overarching approach for delivering joined-up, community-focused care closer to home.\n\nAction 31 of the Mental Health Strategy commits to the development of a RMHS to provide greater regional consistency in service delivery and development. The RMHS is focused on improving integration across the mental health system, strengthening coordination between providers, reducing unwarranted variation in provision and ensuring access to high-quality community-based support. This is being supported through regional and local collaborative structures that bring together statutory, community and voluntary sector partners to identify and address local mental health needs. The establishment of Area Mental Health Collaboratives across all HSC Trust areas is a key element of this approach. These collaboratives are designed to strengthen partnership working, improve care pathways and support earlier intervention within local communities.\n\nOn 31 March 2026, I published my Department’s vision for Neighbourhood Health and Wellbeing, designed to deliver more care closer to home, strengthening prevention, early intervention and integration across health, social care and the wider public sector. The policy framework provides a blueprint for how we are going to deliver on this huge change programme.\n\nFrom April 2026, work is progressing across all four pillars of the model:\n\nIntegrated Neighbourhood Teams\n\nMoving More Care Closer to Home\n\nNeighbourhood Digital Innovation, Intelligence and Evaluation\n\nNeighbourhood Relationships and Connections\n\nWe plan to have 17 Integrated Neighbourhood Teams, bringing together Community Pharmacy, GPs and their Federations, Voluntary and Community organisations, HSC Trusts, independent providers, other statutory bodies and Local Government. These INTs will have a clear focus: identifying need earlier, improving access, preventing avoidable deterioration, and supporting people to stay well at home.\n\nThe structures established by the RMHS are fully aligned with the Neighbourhood Model and will allow the INT’s to plug into Local Collaboratives when mental health priorities arise within INTs and the Neighbourhood Model of Care.\n\nAccountability for the implementation of the Mental Health Strategy remains within the Strategy's established governance arrangements, including Operational Delivery Board, Mental Health Strategy Strategic Reform Board and the Regional Collaborative Board for the RMHS.\n\nResponsibility for the implementation of the Neighbourhood Model rests with the Department of Health and the wider Neighbourhood Programme governance arrangements. Mental health is not being implemented as a separate workstream but will be embedded across the neighbourhood approach.","answerHtml":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 (MHS), the Regional Mental Health Service (RMHS) and the Neighbourhood Model are not intended to operate as separate or parallel programmes. The RMHS supports implementation of the Mental Health Strategy by driving greater consistency, integration and collaboration across mental health services, while the Neighbourhood Model provides the overarching approach for delivering joined-up, community-focused care closer to home.
Action 31 of the Mental Health Strategy commits to the development of a RMHS to provide greater regional consistency in service delivery and development. The RMHS is focused on improving integration across the mental health system, strengthening coordination between providers, reducing unwarranted variation in provision and ensuring access to high-quality community-based support. This is being supported through regional and local collaborative structures that bring together statutory, community and voluntary sector partners to identify and address local mental health needs. The establishment of Area Mental Health Collaboratives across all HSC Trust areas is a key element of this approach. These collaboratives are designed to strengthen partnership working, improve care pathways and support earlier intervention within local communities.
On 31 March 2026, I published my Department’s vision for Neighbourhood Health and Wellbeing, designed to deliver more care closer to home, strengthening prevention, early intervention and integration across health, social care and the wider public sector. The policy framework provides a blueprint for how we are going to deliver on this huge change programme.
From April 2026, work is progressing across all four pillars of the model:
Integrated Neighbourhood Teams
Moving More Care Closer to Home
Neighbourhood Digital Innovation, Intelligence and Evaluation
Neighbourhood Relationships and Connections
We plan to have 17 Integrated Neighbourhood Teams, bringing together Community Pharmacy, GPs and their Federations, Voluntary and Community organisations, HSC Trusts, independent providers, other statutory bodies and Local Government. These INTs will have a clear focus: identifying need earlier, improving access, preventing avoidable deterioration, and supporting people to stay well at home.
The structures established by the RMHS are fully aligned with the Neighbourhood Model and will allow the INT’s to plug into Local Collaboratives when mental health priorities arise within INTs and the Neighbourhood Model of Care.
Accountability for the implementation of the Mental Health Strategy remains within the Strategy's established governance arrangements, including Operational Delivery Board, Mental Health Strategy Strategic Reform Board and the Regional Collaborative Board for the RMHS.
Responsibility for the implementation of the Neighbourhood Model rests with the Department of Health and the wider Neighbourhood Programme governance arrangements. Mental health is not being implemented as a separate workstream but will be embedded across the neighbourhood approach.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049595%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492719","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492719"}},{"id":"492718","reference":"AQW 49594/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how the Health and Social Care Reset Plan is intended to provide the overarching framework for reform, including whether it functions as a single integrated delivery plan, bringing together the Neighbourhood Model of Health and Wellbeing, the Regional Mental Health Service model, and the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 with shared outcomes, timelines and clear accountability for delivery.","answerText":"The delivery of the HSC Reset Plan, published in July 2025 is supported by an integrated programme approach. This programme provides a framework for the delivery of the various strands of the reset programme, to include Neighbourhood Health, Prevention and the broader work to support the shift from hospital to community, treatment to prevention, analogue to digital and people to partners. The programme is supported by a dedicated programme team, responsible for driving the collective outcomes of Reset and supporting strategic reform. The Department’s 2026/27 Strategic Business Plan, which is currently in the final stages of development, will outline the outcomes we will seek to achieve during the forthcoming year across the Reset Programme, with clear milestones and timelines for delivery.\n\nIn regards to work on mental health specifically, the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 (MHS), the Regional Mental Health Service (RMHS) and the Neighbourhood Model are not intended to operate as separate or parallel programmes. The RMHS supports implementation of the Mental Health Strategy by driving greater consistency, integration and collaboration across mental health services, while the Neighbourhood Model provides the overarching approach for delivering joined-up, community-focused care closer to home.\n\nAction 31 of the Mental Health Strategy commits to the development of a RMHS to provide greater regional consistency in service delivery and development. The RMHS is focused on improving integration across the mental health system, strengthening coordination between providers, reducing unwarranted variation in provision and ensuring access to high-quality community-based support. This is being supported through regional and local collaborative structures that bring together statutory, community and voluntary sector partners to identify and address local mental health needs. The establishment of Area Mental Health Collaboratives across all HSC Trust areas is a key element of this approach. These collaboratives are designed to strengthen partnership working, improve care pathways and support earlier intervention within local communities.\n\nOn 31 March 2026, I published my Department’s vision for Neighbourhood Health and Wellbeing, designed to deliver more care closer to home, strengthening prevention, early intervention and integration across health, social care and the wider public sector. The policy framework provides a blueprint for how we are going to deliver on this huge change programme.\n\nWe plan to have 17 Integrated Neighbourhood Teams, bringing together Community Pharmacy, GPs and their Federations, Voluntary and Community organisations, HSC Trusts, independent providers, other statutory bodies and Local Government. These INTs will have a clear focus: identifying need earlier, improving access, preventing avoidable deterioration, and supporting people to stay well at home.\n\nThe structures established by the RMHS are fully aligned with the Neighbourhood Model and will allow the INT’s to plug into Local Collaboratives when mental health priorities arise within INTs and the Neighbourhood Model of Care.\n\nAccountability for the implementation of the Mental Health Strategy remains within the Strategy's established governance arrangements, including Operational Delivery Board, Mental Health Strategy Strategic Reform Board and the Regional Collaborative Board for the RMHS.\n\nResponsibility for the implementation of the Neighbourhood Model rests with the Department of Health and the wider Neighbourhood Programme governance arrangements. Mental health is not being implemented as a separate workstream but will be embedded across the neighbourhood approach.","answerHtml":"The delivery of the HSC Reset Plan, published in July 2025 is supported by an integrated programme approach. This programme provides a framework for the delivery of the various strands of the reset programme, to include Neighbourhood Health, Prevention and the broader work to support the shift from hospital to community, treatment to prevention, analogue to digital and people to partners. The programme is supported by a dedicated programme team, responsible for driving the collective outcomes of Reset and supporting strategic reform. The Department’s 2026/27 Strategic Business Plan, which is currently in the final stages of development, will outline the outcomes we will seek to achieve during the forthcoming year across the Reset Programme, with clear milestones and timelines for delivery.
In regards to work on mental health specifically, the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 (MHS), the Regional Mental Health Service (RMHS) and the Neighbourhood Model are not intended to operate as separate or parallel programmes. The RMHS supports implementation of the Mental Health Strategy by driving greater consistency, integration and collaboration across mental health services, while the Neighbourhood Model provides the overarching approach for delivering joined-up, community-focused care closer to home.
Action 31 of the Mental Health Strategy commits to the development of a RMHS to provide greater regional consistency in service delivery and development. The RMHS is focused on improving integration across the mental health system, strengthening coordination between providers, reducing unwarranted variation in provision and ensuring access to high-quality community-based support. This is being supported through regional and local collaborative structures that bring together statutory, community and voluntary sector partners to identify and address local mental health needs. The establishment of Area Mental Health Collaboratives across all HSC Trust areas is a key element of this approach. These collaboratives are designed to strengthen partnership working, improve care pathways and support earlier intervention within local communities.
On 31 March 2026, I published my Department’s vision for Neighbourhood Health and Wellbeing, designed to deliver more care closer to home, strengthening prevention, early intervention and integration across health, social care and the wider public sector. The policy framework provides a blueprint for how we are going to deliver on this huge change programme.
We plan to have 17 Integrated Neighbourhood Teams, bringing together Community Pharmacy, GPs and their Federations, Voluntary and Community organisations, HSC Trusts, independent providers, other statutory bodies and Local Government. These INTs will have a clear focus: identifying need earlier, improving access, preventing avoidable deterioration, and supporting people to stay well at home.
The structures established by the RMHS are fully aligned with the Neighbourhood Model and will allow the INT’s to plug into Local Collaboratives when mental health priorities arise within INTs and the Neighbourhood Model of Care.
Accountability for the implementation of the Mental Health Strategy remains within the Strategy's established governance arrangements, including Operational Delivery Board, Mental Health Strategy Strategic Reform Board and the Regional Collaborative Board for the RMHS.
Responsibility for the implementation of the Neighbourhood Model rests with the Department of Health and the wider Neighbourhood Programme governance arrangements. Mental health is not being implemented as a separate workstream but will be embedded across the neighbourhood approach.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049594%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492718","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492718"}},{"id":"492470","reference":"AQW 49482/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-24","answerBy":"2026-07-09","answered":"2026-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities,pursuant to AQW 47993/22-27, for clarification on whether remote gambling operators, licensed by the Gambling Commission, can advertise in Northern Ireland, as opposed to providing a link to an external website.","answerText":"It is not within my Department’s remit to comment on remote gambling operators licensed by the Gambling Commission.","answerHtml":"It is not within my Department’s remit to comment on remote gambling operators licensed by the Gambling Commission.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049482%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492470","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492470"}},{"id":"492469","reference":"AQW 49481/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-24","answerBy":"2026-07-09","answered":"2026-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when he will answer AQW 47991/22-27.","answerText":"AQW 47991/22-27 was answered on 23 June 2026","answerHtml":"AQW 47991/22-27 was answered on 23 June 2026
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049481%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492469","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492469"}},{"id":"493437","reference":"AQO 3848/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-06-30","answered":"2026-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the work of the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime.","answerText":"The Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime, for which I am lead Minister, brings together departments, statutory agencies and community partners to deliver a public health, wholesystem approach to tackling paramilitarism.\n\nThe Programme invests in over 100 evidencebased interventions to address paramilitary harm across Northern Ireland. It brings together robust law enforcement, support for individuals and communities and; early intervention to support young people at risk of exploitation.\n\nAlongside this, public awareness campaigns such as Ending the Harm have played an important role in exposing coercive control, challenging paramilitary influence, and encouraging people to come forward for help.\n\nThis multi-disciplinary, cross-departmental approach has seen tangible outcomes: paramilitary violence and intimidation have reduced, and tens of thousands of people have received support within their communities. The Programme has also improved collaboration on this issue across the system as well as supporting new responses to child criminal exploitation and putting in place credible pathways for those engaged, or at risk of engagement in gang violence.\n\nThe Programme Team has been analysing the lessons learned from the decade of delivery as well as engaging widely with stakeholders in order to develop options for the Executive’s approach to tackling paramilitarism when the current Programme’s mandate comes to an end in March 2027.\n\nThis must build on the progress that has already been made to protect people, strengthen communities, and prevent future generations from being drawn into paramilitary activity.","answerHtml":"The Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime, for which I am lead Minister, brings together departments, statutory agencies and community partners to deliver a public health, wholesystem approach to tackling paramilitarism.
The Programme invests in over 100 evidencebased interventions to address paramilitary harm across Northern Ireland. It brings together robust law enforcement, support for individuals and communities and; early intervention to support young people at risk of exploitation.
Alongside this, public awareness campaigns such as Ending the Harm have played an important role in exposing coercive control, challenging paramilitary influence, and encouraging people to come forward for help.
This multi-disciplinary, cross-departmental approach has seen tangible outcomes: paramilitary violence and intimidation have reduced, and tens of thousands of people have received support within their communities. The Programme has also improved collaboration on this issue across the system as well as supporting new responses to child criminal exploitation and putting in place credible pathways for those engaged, or at risk of engagement in gang violence.
The Programme Team has been analysing the lessons learned from the decade of delivery as well as engaging widely with stakeholders in order to develop options for the Executive’s approach to tackling paramilitarism when the current Programme’s mandate comes to an end in March 2027.
This must build on the progress that has already been made to protect people, strengthen communities, and prevent future generations from being drawn into paramilitary activity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203848%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493437","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493437"}},{"id":"491270","reference":"AQO 3821/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-06-29","answered":"2026-06-29","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on the Larne West Distributor (South).","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"I recognise the Member's interest in the Larne West distributor (south) road and the local concerns about that incomplete section of road. As the Member will likely be aware, the road was identified through the Larne area plan and the earlier Larne West study as infrastructure to be delivered by the developers of the adjacent lands. A remaining links section has not been constructed and is still in private ownership. My Department's advice is that that is a private development issue. Responsibility for resolution rests with the relevant developers and the local authority, which is now Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. The Department does not have powers under the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980 to enforce construction of the missing section. For more recent development in the Larne West area, the Department has ensured that traffic impacts are considered through the planning process. In the case of the new port development approval for around 500 dwellings, off-site road improvements have been conditioned, including traffic signals at Donaghy's Lane and Antiville Road. Roads officials are content that those works provide satisfactory access to the existing network. Officials have also examined options to improve traffic progression at the Linn Road and Antiville Road junction, but the scheme identified has proven to be cost-prohibitive, due to significant underground utilities. While some short-duration queuing is observed at peak times, officials advise that there are no significant issues at other times and that traffic generally moves satisfactorily during the day. My Department will continue to engage with the planning consultation process to ensure that traffic from further development is properly assessed and adequate mitigations are put in place."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for that answer. It will not satisfy the people of the area. The completion of the 3 km distributor road was planned to be a key part of the development, linking hundreds of houses to the wider road network, but, due to a planning issue by her Department in the 1990s, it never happened. Will she commit to visiting the area, reviewing the issue and working to resolve it for the growing number of people who are impacted on in Larne every day at those key traffic times, noting that the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman's (NIPSO) report said that vesting should not be ruled out?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"As I said, at this point, the issue is between the council and the developers. Ultimately, they can resolve it. My Department will continue to engage with the council, but, at this point, we do not have the power to intervene. It is important to make that clear. I have stated that in relation to the Private Streets Order. If, at a later date, there is an opportunity for us to intervene, I am happy to consider that, if it is within my tenure as Minister. The Member mentioned the time that has passed since the issue arose. Ultimately, the advice that I have been provided with is that the issue can be resolved between the developer and the council."},{"speaker":"Mr Stewart","text":"The infrastructure in Larne West is shambolic and fails residents and commuters daily. Minister, you will be aware of an ombudsman's investigation of the missing link road at Ballyloran that reported last February on the back of my office having brought the matter to it. The investigation found maladministration, and your Department was to redouble its efforts with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and other stakeholders to bring about a resolution to the shambolic situation. As part of that, the Department was to process all considered options available and report to the ombudsman's office within six months: that was 18 months ago. I am one of the stakeholders; we have heard nothing. What is your Department doing about it?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"As I stated in my previous answer, the Department acknowledged the ombudsman's findings about the road. As the Member said, the ombudsman concluded that the failure to complete the road arose from the way in which development was allowed to proceed without the necessary planning controls or conditions having been put in place at that time. I cannot speak about something that happened 30-odd years ago, but I recognise that locals will not be happy with that response. I recognise that there are issues that need to be addressed. The report also noted, however, that that remaining link is undeveloped and in private ownership, which is why I explicitly set out who can work to resolve the issue. The official advice, which is consistent with the ombudsman's findings, remains that it is a private development issue and that responsibility for resolution rests with the relevant developers and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council as the planning authority. My Department will continue to ensure that, through the planning process, traffic generated by further development in that area is appropriately considered and mitigated through off-site works, where required. We will continue to engage in the process to make sure that we do not contribute to any further problems."},{"speaker":"Mr McHugh","text":"Minister, how does the Department work with councils when road infrastructure forms part of a planning approval?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"As Members will be aware, my Department is a statutory consultee in the planning process, at which point it provides technical advice to councils on roads, access traffic and road safety matters. Councils, as the ultimate planning authority, are responsible for determining planning applications and attaching or enforcing planning conditions, where appropriate. The Department will continue to provide advice to councils to ensure that transport impacts are properly considered before development proceeds. The issue with the Larne road is a retrospective one, but, at this time, the planning authority is the council, and it has the power to deal with it."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Toole","text":"Minister, the Larne West distributor was supposed to have been delivered by developers 25 or 30 years ago. It is a developer-led project. As I understand it — I do not represent Larne — it involves a couple of hundred metres of unbuilt road. Does the farcical situation of that unbuilt road in Larne not give the lie to your somewhat preposterous notion that developers will meet the £2 billon funding shortfall facing Northern Ireland Water? If they cannot build a couple of hundred metres of road in Larne, how will they fund our waste water infrastructure, which is an issue that is holding back our economy?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"First, to clarify the Member's points, I have never said that developers were going to fund the £2 billion gap. I have said quite the opposite, which is that that is one way in which to make some progress in that regard. It is important that I put that on the record. Secondly, it is a developer-led problem. If I were to take ownership of every issue that developers have caused, including unadopted developments, which is the same principle, I would have no money to do what I am meant to be doing, which I already struggle to do. While I take the Member's point, we are in a very difficult situation, in that we cannot pick up the pieces when a developer has failed to meet its responsibilities or a planning authority has failed to put in place proper mitigations. I have said that we will continue to engage with whomever we need to work with, but, ultimately, the solution to such things will be found between the council and the developer responsible."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203821%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491270","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-06-29&docID=492566#AQO%203821/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491270"}},{"id":"490188","reference":"AQW 48662/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-15","answerBy":"2026-06-30","answered":"2026-08-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any hospital deaths have been subject to an Article two inquest, in the last ten years.","answerText":"An Article Two Inquest is an inquest into a death involving the State (its agents and/or employees) which is conducted to comply with Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights (EHCR), namely the right to life i.e. that everyone's right to life shall be protected by law.\n\nThis information is not recorded by any of the Health and Social Care Trusts and would be more appropriately directed to the Coroner Service, which is under the remit of the Department of Justice.","answerHtml":"An Article Two Inquest is an inquest into a death involving the State (its agents and/or employees) which is conducted to comply with Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights (EHCR), namely the right to life i.e. that everyone's right to life shall be protected by law.
This information is not recorded by any of the Health and Social Care Trusts and would be more appropriately directed to the Coroner Service, which is under the remit of the Department of Justice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048662%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490188","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490188"}},{"id":"490187","reference":"AQW 48661/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-15","answerBy":"2026-06-30","answered":"2026-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any hospital deaths have been determined to be due to neglect, in the last ten years.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts have advised that “neglect” is not a standard classification that is applied to deaths when they are recorded. As such, the requested information is not available. To provide data on this would require a comprehensive review of medical records for all deaths. Due to the high volume this would be at a disproportionate cost.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts have advised that “neglect” is not a standard classification that is applied to deaths when they are recorded. As such, the requested information is not available. To provide data on this would require a comprehensive review of medical records for all deaths. Due to the high volume this would be at a disproportionate cost.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048661%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490187","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490187"}},{"id":"490186","reference":"AQW 48660/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-15","answerBy":"2026-06-30","answered":"2026-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any deaths determined to be due to neglect, in the last ten years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"DATIX (CCS2) incident coding does not include “neglect” as a standalone category within the incident module. As such, we are unable to provide data specifically coded under “neglect.”\n\nDeath-related SAIs are recorded under a range of defined incident types (e.g. falls, medication errors, missed diagnosis/failure to diagnose, delayed diagnosis, safeguarding concerns, choking, aggressive behaviour, etc.). These codes are designed to capture the specific nature of the incident that occurred. While aspects of care within these incidents may, in some cases, raise questions relating to neglect, it is important to note that “neglect” is not a discrete or consistently defined classification within the coding framework. It is a broad term encompassing a wide spectrum of issues, and not all incidents of a similar type would necessarily indicate that neglect has occurred.\n\nGiven this, identifying cases of “neglect” would require detailed case-by-case review of individual death-related reports rather than extraction from coded data. Undertaking such an exercise across a ten-year period would require a significant manual review and considerable time. As Trusts utilise the same DATIX CCS2 coding structure, they would also be unable to provide a reliable response based solely on system codes.","answerHtml":"DATIX (CCS2) incident coding does not include “neglect” as a standalone category within the incident module. As such, we are unable to provide data specifically coded under “neglect.”
Death-related SAIs are recorded under a range of defined incident types (e.g. falls, medication errors, missed diagnosis/failure to diagnose, delayed diagnosis, safeguarding concerns, choking, aggressive behaviour, etc.). These codes are designed to capture the specific nature of the incident that occurred. While aspects of care within these incidents may, in some cases, raise questions relating to neglect, it is important to note that “neglect” is not a discrete or consistently defined classification within the coding framework. It is a broad term encompassing a wide spectrum of issues, and not all incidents of a similar type would necessarily indicate that neglect has occurred.
Given this, identifying cases of “neglect” would require detailed case-by-case review of individual death-related reports rather than extraction from coded data. Undertaking such an exercise across a ten-year period would require a significant manual review and considerable time. As Trusts utilise the same DATIX CCS2 coding structure, they would also be unable to provide a reliable response based solely on system codes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048660%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490186","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490186"}},{"id":"488944","reference":"AQW 48094/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-08","answerBy":"2026-06-23","answered":"2026-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any plans her Department has to ease traffic congestion in Whiteabbey Village.","answerText":"My officials continue to support Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in the delivery of an environmental improvement scheme to address traffic congestion in the village. This includes reviewing existing on-street parking arrangements and considering the Council’s proposal for a one-way traffic system. As the proposal is council led, my department has not received any objections.","answerHtml":"My officials continue to support Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in the delivery of an environmental improvement scheme to address traffic congestion in the village. This includes reviewing existing on-street parking arrangements and considering the Council’s proposal for a one-way traffic system. As the proposal is council led, my department has not received any objections.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048094%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488944","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488944"}},{"id":"488943","reference":"AQW 48093/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-08","answerBy":"2026-06-23","answered":"2026-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the nature of any objections her Department has received to a one-way traffic system in Whiteabbey Village.","answerText":"My officials continue to support Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in the delivery of an environmental improvement scheme to address traffic congestion in the village. This includes reviewing existing on-street parking arrangements and considering the Council’s proposal for a one-way traffic system. As the proposal is council led, my department has not received any objections.","answerHtml":"My officials continue to support Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in the delivery of an environmental improvement scheme to address traffic congestion in the village. This includes reviewing existing on-street parking arrangements and considering the Council’s proposal for a one-way traffic system. As the proposal is council led, my department has not received any objections.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048093%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488943","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488943"}},{"id":"488710","reference":"AQW 47993/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-05","answerBy":"2026-06-22","answered":"2026-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether remote gambling operators, licensed by the Gambling Commission, can advertise in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I refer the member to the Gambling Commission.\n\nhttps://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/about-us/guide/page/our-role-and-remit-in-northern-ireland","answerHtml":"I refer the member to the Gambling Commission.
https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/about-us/guide/page/our-role-and-remit-in-northern-ireland
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047993%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488710","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488710"}},{"id":"488709","reference":"AQW 47992/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-05","answerBy":"2026-06-22","answered":"2026-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether remote gambling is regulated in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Gambling in Northern Ireland, other than the National Lottery, is regulated under the Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements (NI) Order 1985 (the Order).\n\nWhen the Order came into force, gambling in Northern Ireland was limited to land-based or non-remote gambling, pre-dating the emergence of remote gambling. Accordingly, the Order is silent as to the regulation of remote gambling.","answerHtml":"Gambling in Northern Ireland, other than the National Lottery, is regulated under the Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements (NI) Order 1985 (the Order).
When the Order came into force, gambling in Northern Ireland was limited to land-based or non-remote gambling, pre-dating the emergence of remote gambling. Accordingly, the Order is silent as to the regulation of remote gambling.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047992%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488709","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488709"}},{"id":"488708","reference":"AQW 47991/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-05","answerBy":"2026-06-22","answered":"2026-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the Gambling Commission has jurisdiction in Northern Ireland to investigate licensed remote gambling operators that have breached UK advertising codes on multiple occasions.","answerText":"I refer the Member to the Gambling Commission.\n\nhttps://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/about-us/guide/page/our-role-and-remit-in-northern-ireland","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to the Gambling Commission.
https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/about-us/guide/page/our-role-and-remit-in-northern-ireland
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047991%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488708","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488708"}},{"id":"488707","reference":"AQW 47990/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-05","answerBy":"2026-06-22","answered":"2026-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any meetings his officials have had with their counterparts in the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, including any detail on receiving a share of the statutory levy on remote gambling operators to fund gambling treatment and prevention in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My officials met with their colleagues in the Department of Culture, Media and Sport on 14 January 2025 and 3 December 2025. The potential for Northern Ireland to receive a share of the GB statutory gambling levy on remote gambling operators was one of the issues discussed at those meetings.\n\nThe member may wish to note that on 10 March 2026 Baroness Twycross, Minister for Museums, Heritage and Gambling, wrote to the Chair of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee stating that the UK Government do not have plans to extend the levy to Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My officials met with their colleagues in the Department of Culture, Media and Sport on 14 January 2025 and 3 December 2025. The potential for Northern Ireland to receive a share of the GB statutory gambling levy on remote gambling operators was one of the issues discussed at those meetings.
The member may wish to note that on 10 March 2026 Baroness Twycross, Minister for Museums, Heritage and Gambling, wrote to the Chair of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee stating that the UK Government do not have plans to extend the levy to Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047990%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488707","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488707"}},{"id":"488427","reference":"AQW 47864/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-04","answerBy":"2026-06-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) how the list of participants for the recent Neighbourhood Model of Health and Wellbeing workshops was compiled; (ii) the criteria used to select participants; and (iii) to list the participants invited to attend.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047864%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488427","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488427"}},{"id":"488426","reference":"AQW 47863/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-04","answerBy":"2026-06-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) who will represent the community and voluntary sector on Integrated Neighbourhood Teams; and (ii) the process that will be used to select representatives.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047863%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488426","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488426"}},{"id":"488536","reference":"AQO 3707/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-04","answerBy":"2026-06-15","answered":"2026-06-15","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline the measures included in the Bathing Waters Policy Review for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"My Department has launched a 12-week public consultation on proposed measures as part of the bathing waters policy review for Northern Ireland. The consultation seeks views on a range of proposals to modernise and improve the bathing waters programme. They include how bathing water information is communicated to users; the length and flexibility of the bathing season; the introduction of a risk-based approach to bathing water monitoring; revised criteria for the identification of bathing waters; improved monitoring and management of candidate sites; the removal of automatic de-identification of sites; ensuring that monitoring locations better reflect usage patterns; and the consideration of wider stakeholder recommendations. In addition, the consultation provides an opportunity for members of the public to propose new bathing water sites through a dedicated application process. My Department will shortly host an information webinar to provide further detail on the proposals and clarify any queries from the public. The consultation closes on Friday 21 August 2026."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"Thanks to the Minister for that answer. What role will event duration monitors (EDMs) and near-real-time reporting play in keeping users of our bathing waters informed about water quality?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"Event duration monitors could play a key role in near-real-time reporting and therefore improve transparency and keep users informed of water quality at bathing waters. The technologies monitor the event and duration of spills from combined sewer overflows. That could improve public messaging, enabling more informed decision-making by bathers, and enhance public confidence in the bathing water programme. My Department is working with Northern Ireland Water on a pilot initiative to explore the use of EDMs with enhanced data reporting to support more timely identification of pollution events at bathing waters. The aspiration is to have a public-facing version of the pilot within the next year. As part of the bathing waters policy review, my Department is considering how best to strengthen communication with users. Any future approach that involves EDMs will build on the existing bathing water dashboard, which provides an accurate one-stop shop for bathing water information and gives sound public health advice."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203707%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488536","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-06-15&docID=489602#AQO%203707/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488536"}},{"id":"487888","reference":"AQW 47624/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-02","answerBy":"2026-06-17","answered":"2026-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of hip replacement procedures performed on (i) weekdays; and (ii) weekends, in each of the last three years, broken down by (a) Health and Social Care Trust; and (b) hospital.","answerText":"The tables below set out the number of hip replacement procedures performed on weekdays and weekends over the past three years, broken down by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust and hospital site.\n\nActivity undertaken in independent sector (IS) facilities is excluded; however, IS activity delivered within Trust facilities is included. It should be acknowledged that these figures have been sourced from operational data and have not been formally validated by HSC Trusts.\n\nData for 2025/26 is provided to December 2025 only and therefore represents a partial year, except where otherwise indicated. Caution should be exercised when interpreting these figures, as activity may be understated due to delays in clinical coding.\n\nTable 1: Number of Hip Replacement Procedures Performed on Weekdays\n\nHSC Trust\tHospital Site\tFY 2023/24\tFY 2024/25\tFY 2025/26 (to Dec 2025)1\nBelfast\tMusgrave\t1,154\t1,351\t1,041\nRVH\t126\t368\t279\nSouth Eastern\tUlster\t106\t159\t113\nSouthern\tCraigavon\t254\t293\t211\nDaisy Hill\t1\t-\t6\nWestern\tAltnagelvin\t341\t416\t153\nSouth West Acute3\t29\t140\t2812\nNI Total\t1,989\t2,637\t1,834\n\nTable 2: Number of Hip Replacement Procedures Performed on Weekends\n\nHSC Trust\tHospital Site\tFY 2023/24\tFY 2024/25\tFY 2025/26 (to Dec 2025)1\nBelfast\tMusgrave\t54\t72\t51\nRVH\t35\t64\t54\nSouth Eastern\tUlster\t44\t80\t29\nSouthern\tCraigavon\t53\t43\t37\nDaisy Hill\t-\t-\t2\nWestern\tAltnagelvin\t50\t40\t24\nSouth West Acute\t-\t-\t-\nNI Total\t236\t299\t197\n\n1 Data for 2025/26 are available to December 2025 only and therefore represent a partial year. Activity may be understated due to lags in clinical coding.\n\n2 Full year 2025/26 data included for South West Acute Hospital only.\n\n3 All activity in South West Acute Hospital was undertaken by an independent sector provider and includes patients from both Western and Southern HSC Trusts.\n\nThis activity reflects ongoing investment under the Elective Care Framework, including targeted funding to increase capacity for primary hip procedures and address the longest-waiting patients and wider waiting list pressures.","answerHtml":"The tables below set out the number of hip replacement procedures performed on weekdays and weekends over the past three years, broken down by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust and hospital site.
Activity undertaken in independent sector (IS) facilities is excluded; however, IS activity delivered within Trust facilities is included. It should be acknowledged that these figures have been sourced from operational data and have not been formally validated by HSC Trusts.
Data for 2025/26 is provided to December 2025 only and therefore represents a partial year, except where otherwise indicated. Caution should be exercised when interpreting these figures, as activity may be understated due to delays in clinical coding.
Table 1: Number of Hip Replacement Procedures Performed on Weekdays
| HSC Trust | Hospital Site | FY 2023/24 | FY 2024/25 | FY 2025/26 (to Dec 2025)1 |
| Belfast | Musgrave | 1,154 | 1,351 | 1,041 |
| RVH | 126 | 368 | 279 | |
| South Eastern | Ulster | 106 | 159 | 113 |
| Southern | Craigavon | 254 | 293 | 211 |
| Daisy Hill | 1 | - | 6 | |
| Western | Altnagelvin | 341 | 416 | 153 |
| South West Acute3 | 29 | 140 | 2812 | |
| NI Total | 1,989 | 2,637 | 1,834 |
Table 2: Number of Hip Replacement Procedures Performed on Weekends
| HSC Trust | Hospital Site | FY 2023/24 | FY 2024/25 | FY 2025/26 (to Dec 2025)1 |
| Belfast | Musgrave | 54 | 72 | 51 |
| RVH | 35 | 64 | 54 | |
| South Eastern | Ulster | 44 | 80 | 29 |
| Southern | Craigavon | 53 | 43 | 37 |
| Daisy Hill | - | - | 2 | |
| Western | Altnagelvin | 50 | 40 | 24 |
| South West Acute | - | - | - | |
| NI Total | 236 | 299 | 197 |
1 Data for 2025/26 are available to December 2025 only and therefore represent a partial year. Activity may be understated due to lags in clinical coding.
2 Full year 2025/26 data included for South West Acute Hospital only.
3 All activity in South West Acute Hospital was undertaken by an independent sector provider and includes patients from both Western and Southern HSC Trusts.
This activity reflects ongoing investment under the Elective Care Framework, including targeted funding to increase capacity for primary hip procedures and address the longest-waiting patients and wider waiting list pressures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047624%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487888","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487888"}},{"id":"487887","reference":"AQW 47623/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-02","answerBy":"2026-06-17","answered":"2026-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the longest time between patients being admitted with a fractured hip and receiving surgery, in the last three years, broken down by (i) Health and Social Care Trust; (ii) hospital.","answerText":"Patients requiring surgery for a fractured hip are treated at the four hospitals referenced in Table 1 below (the Northern Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust does not provide this surgery).\n\nThe data shows the longest waiting time, within the last three years, between admission for a fractured hip and surgery, broken down by HSC Trust and hospital site. Waiting times are measured in hours from the date and time the decision to admit is made, to the start time of surgery. However, this data may include periods during which the patient was deemed medically unfit for surgery.\n\nTable 1: Longest waiting time from admission to surgery for a fractured hip in the last three years\n\nHSC Trust\tHospital Site\tLongest Time from Admission to Surgery (Hours) 1,2\nBelfast\tRoyal Victoria\t264.0 hours\nSouth Eastern\tUlster\t229.0 hours\nSouthern\tCraigavon\t196.0 hours\nWestern\tAltnagelvin\t147.5 hours\n\n1This may include a period during which the patient was medically unfit for surgery.\n\n2The data covers the period from June 2023 to March 2026.\n\nDelays in getting patients to theatre in a timely manner arise primarily from sustained trauma and emergency demand pressures across hospital sites, including constraints on theatre availability, competing clinical priorities, and the need to ensure access to specialist orthopaedic and anaesthetic teams.\n\nAdditional funding has recently been allocated to HSC Trusts to improve fracture waiting times. This funding will increase theatre capacity and bed availability across all trauma sites within the region.","answerHtml":"Patients requiring surgery for a fractured hip are treated at the four hospitals referenced in Table 1 below (the Northern Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust does not provide this surgery).
The data shows the longest waiting time, within the last three years, between admission for a fractured hip and surgery, broken down by HSC Trust and hospital site. Waiting times are measured in hours from the date and time the decision to admit is made, to the start time of surgery. However, this data may include periods during which the patient was deemed medically unfit for surgery.
Table 1: Longest waiting time from admission to surgery for a fractured hip in the last three years
| HSC Trust | Hospital Site | Longest Time from Admission to Surgery (Hours) 1,2 |
| Belfast | Royal Victoria | 264.0 hours |
| South Eastern | Ulster | 229.0 hours |
| Southern | Craigavon | 196.0 hours |
| Western | Altnagelvin | 147.5 hours |
1This may include a period during which the patient was medically unfit for surgery.
2The data covers the period from June 2023 to March 2026.
Delays in getting patients to theatre in a timely manner arise primarily from sustained trauma and emergency demand pressures across hospital sites, including constraints on theatre availability, competing clinical priorities, and the need to ensure access to specialist orthopaedic and anaesthetic teams.
Additional funding has recently been allocated to HSC Trusts to improve fracture waiting times. This funding will increase theatre capacity and bed availability across all trauma sites within the region.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047623%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487887","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487887"}},{"id":"487886","reference":"AQW 47622/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-02","answerBy":"2026-06-17","answered":"2026-08-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the Northern Ireland Cardiology Network's future workplan, including whether workstreams have secured funding.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Cardiology Network continues to address key priorities in relation to the management of cardiac-related issues across the region. The Network’s focus remains on supporting equitable care and regionally-standardised approaches to cardiac treatments and condition management, in line with its workplan. However, in response to immediate service pressures within cardiology and cardiac surgery, the Network has had to reprioritise its planned work and provide increased oversight and support in order to ensure that patient safety and service continuity are maintained. Funding is in place for the existing workstreams; however, in the context of current financial constraints, no additional workstreams have secured funding at this time.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Cardiology Network continues to address key priorities in relation to the management of cardiac-related issues across the region. The Network’s focus remains on supporting equitable care and regionally-standardised approaches to cardiac treatments and condition management, in line with its workplan. However, in response to immediate service pressures within cardiology and cardiac surgery, the Network has had to reprioritise its planned work and provide increased oversight and support in order to ensure that patient safety and service continuity are maintained. Funding is in place for the existing workstreams; however, in the context of current financial constraints, no additional workstreams have secured funding at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047622%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487886","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487886"}},{"id":"487885","reference":"AQW 47621/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-02","answerBy":"2026-06-17","answered":"2026-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 15429/22-27, whether the regional medical workforce review of consultants, specialists and associated specialists has completed the review of cardiology staffing needs.","answerText":"The regional medical workforce review of consultants, specialists and associate specialists carried out by the Cardiac Network established a staffing baseline. However, my Department’s Workforce Planning officials in collaboration with the Public Health Agency, have been carrying out a cardiology strategic workforce review. This review is ongoing.","answerHtml":"The regional medical workforce review of consultants, specialists and associate specialists carried out by the Cardiac Network established a staffing baseline. However, my Department’s Workforce Planning officials in collaboration with the Public Health Agency, have been carrying out a cardiology strategic workforce review. This review is ongoing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047621%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487885","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487885"}},{"id":"487076","reference":"AQW 47267/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-28","answerBy":"2026-06-12","answered":"2026-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following the recent announcement of £42 million from the transformation fund to support an ePharmacy scheme, to detail the timeline for delivering electronic prescribing.","answerText":"The Department of Health has secured public sector transformation funding of £42m to take forward ePharmacy digital solutions through the Go Pharmacy NI and Electronic Transfer of Prescriptions projects.\n\nThe transformation funding will allow the programme to now move at pace to develop and plan the implementation of the digital solutions and systems. This phase of the work is expected to be completed by 31 March 2029.\n\nThe aim is that this will enable Go Pharmacy NI to be rolled out to community pharmacies by 30 September 2029 and ETP in GP Practices and Community Pharmacies by 30 September 2030.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health has secured public sector transformation funding of £42m to take forward ePharmacy digital solutions through the Go Pharmacy NI and Electronic Transfer of Prescriptions projects.
The transformation funding will allow the programme to now move at pace to develop and plan the implementation of the digital solutions and systems. This phase of the work is expected to be completed by 31 March 2029.
The aim is that this will enable Go Pharmacy NI to be rolled out to community pharmacies by 30 September 2029 and ETP in GP Practices and Community Pharmacies by 30 September 2030.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047267%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487076","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487076"}},{"id":"486775","reference":"AQW 47130/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-27","answerBy":"2026-06-01","answered":"2026-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any targets he has set to reduce the (i) dependence on; and (ii) spend on, agency nurses across the health service.","answerText":"HSC Trust expenditure on agency staff is incurred to ensure that safe and effective services can be sustained. Agency use is very much the last resort once substantive staffing; overtime and the use of bank staffing have been exhausted.\n\nA Regional Agency Reduction Implementation and Planning Group (ARIG) has been established to co-ordinate the improvement of staff utilisation, with the express objective of significantly reducing unsustainable agency and locum spend across HSC.\n\nThe Group has developed and is implementing a complex work programme to safely facilitate and manage the impact on services to deliver against this objective.\n\nIt should be noted progress has already been made:\n\nexpenditure of ‘off-framework’ agency for the nursing group (including support staff) reducing by £120m against the base year 2022/23;\n\nagency use in Social Work has been entirely eliminated;\n\na new framework aimed at reducing medical & dental locum costs came into effect at the start of March 2026;\n\nprogress has been made to stabilise and grow the HSC workforce with a 19.5% increase in whole time equivalent staff directly employed since 2018 including 3,257 (+21.6%) more registered nurses and midwives;\n\nagency costs for the nursing group (including support staff) have reduced from a high of £186m in 2022-23 (with only 28% being on-framework) to £161.6m in 2024/25 (now with 91% being on-framework);\n\nFinal expenditure data for the 2025/26 financial year is currently being collated and validated by the HSC Trusts and will be available shortly.","answerHtml":"HSC Trust expenditure on agency staff is incurred to ensure that safe and effective services can be sustained. Agency use is very much the last resort once substantive staffing; overtime and the use of bank staffing have been exhausted.
A Regional Agency Reduction Implementation and Planning Group (ARIG) has been established to co-ordinate the improvement of staff utilisation, with the express objective of significantly reducing unsustainable agency and locum spend across HSC.
The Group has developed and is implementing a complex work programme to safely facilitate and manage the impact on services to deliver against this objective.
It should be noted progress has already been made:
expenditure of ‘off-framework’ agency for the nursing group (including support staff) reducing by £120m against the base year 2022/23;
agency use in Social Work has been entirely eliminated;
a new framework aimed at reducing medical & dental locum costs came into effect at the start of March 2026;
progress has been made to stabilise and grow the HSC workforce with a 19.5% increase in whole time equivalent staff directly employed since 2018 including 3,257 (+21.6%) more registered nurses and midwives;
agency costs for the nursing group (including support staff) have reduced from a high of £186m in 2022-23 (with only 28% being on-framework) to £161.6m in 2024/25 (now with 91% being on-framework);
Final expenditure data for the 2025/26 financial year is currently being collated and validated by the HSC Trusts and will be available shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047130%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486775","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486775"}},{"id":"486062","reference":"AQW 46788/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-21","answerBy":"2026-06-08","answered":"2026-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any (i) assessments and reports that she has received to indicate that the street lights in Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, Jordanstown, are in a dangerous state.","answerText":"Where street lighting columns are identified as unsafe or at high risk of failure, the Department must act quickly in the interests of public safety and remove or make safe the columns as a matter of urgency. In such cases, works are undertaken reactively and, where possible, contractors liaise with residents to minimise disruption. Where columns are identified as being at the end of their serviceable life and the location meets the criteria for a replacement scheme, residents are issued with advance notice of the planned works.\n\nIn relation to the Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, the Department is planning to remove all concrete columns which are at the end of their serviceable life. It would be extremely difficult to accurately estimate the cost of carriageway reinstatement in advance, as the extent of any damage is not known until a column is removed. Any reinstatement required is therefore treated as a necessary health and safety-related cost and paid as a re-measurable item following completion of the works.\n\nThe Department does not hold historical information on the installation, maintenance and repair costs of the LED street light upgrades and fixtures over the last 20 years, although I can confirm that the LED lanterns will be reused. I have asked officials to provide copies of the necessary reports detailing the condition of the street lighting system.","answerHtml":"Where street lighting columns are identified as unsafe or at high risk of failure, the Department must act quickly in the interests of public safety and remove or make safe the columns as a matter of urgency. In such cases, works are undertaken reactively and, where possible, contractors liaise with residents to minimise disruption. Where columns are identified as being at the end of their serviceable life and the location meets the criteria for a replacement scheme, residents are issued with advance notice of the planned works.
In relation to the Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, the Department is planning to remove all concrete columns which are at the end of their serviceable life. It would be extremely difficult to accurately estimate the cost of carriageway reinstatement in advance, as the extent of any damage is not known until a column is removed. Any reinstatement required is therefore treated as a necessary health and safety-related cost and paid as a re-measurable item following completion of the works.
The Department does not hold historical information on the installation, maintenance and repair costs of the LED street light upgrades and fixtures over the last 20 years, although I can confirm that the LED lanterns will be reused. I have asked officials to provide copies of the necessary reports detailing the condition of the street lighting system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046788%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486062","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486062"}},{"id":"486061","reference":"AQW 46787/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-21","answerBy":"2026-06-08","answered":"2026-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail detail the cost of the (i) installation; (ii) maintenance; and (iii) repair, of the LED street light upgrades and fixtures, over the last 20 years, that are proposed to be removed in Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, Jordanstown.","answerText":"Where street lighting columns are identified as unsafe or at high risk of failure, the Department must act quickly in the interests of public safety and remove or make safe the columns as a matter of urgency. In such cases, works are undertaken reactively and, where possible, contractors liaise with residents to minimise disruption. Where columns are identified as being at the end of their serviceable life and the location meets the criteria for a replacement scheme, residents are issued with advance notice of the planned works.\n\nIn relation to the Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, the Department is planning to remove all concrete columns which are at the end of their serviceable life. It would be extremely difficult to accurately estimate the cost of carriageway reinstatement in advance, as the extent of any damage is not known until a column is removed. Any reinstatement required is therefore treated as a necessary health and safety-related cost and paid as a re-measurable item following completion of the works.\n\nThe Department does not hold historical information on the installation, maintenance and repair costs of the LED street light upgrades and fixtures over the last 20 years, although I can confirm that the LED lanterns will be reused. I have asked officials to provide copies of the necessary reports detailing the condition of the street lighting system.","answerHtml":"Where street lighting columns are identified as unsafe or at high risk of failure, the Department must act quickly in the interests of public safety and remove or make safe the columns as a matter of urgency. In such cases, works are undertaken reactively and, where possible, contractors liaise with residents to minimise disruption. Where columns are identified as being at the end of their serviceable life and the location meets the criteria for a replacement scheme, residents are issued with advance notice of the planned works.
In relation to the Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, the Department is planning to remove all concrete columns which are at the end of their serviceable life. It would be extremely difficult to accurately estimate the cost of carriageway reinstatement in advance, as the extent of any damage is not known until a column is removed. Any reinstatement required is therefore treated as a necessary health and safety-related cost and paid as a re-measurable item following completion of the works.
The Department does not hold historical information on the installation, maintenance and repair costs of the LED street light upgrades and fixtures over the last 20 years, although I can confirm that the LED lanterns will be reused. I have asked officials to provide copies of the necessary reports detailing the condition of the street lighting system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046787%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486061","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486061"}},{"id":"486060","reference":"AQW 46786/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-21","answerBy":"2026-06-08","answered":"2026-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the number of street lights that her Department is proposing to remove from the Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, Jordanstown, including the locations.","answerText":"Where street lighting columns are identified as unsafe or at high risk of failure, the Department must act quickly in the interests of public safety and remove or make safe the columns as a matter of urgency. In such cases, works are undertaken reactively and, where possible, contractors liaise with residents to minimise disruption. Where columns are identified as being at the end of their serviceable life and the location meets the criteria for a replacement scheme, residents are issued with advance notice of the planned works.\n\nIn relation to the Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, the Department is planning to remove all concrete columns which are at the end of their serviceable life. It would be extremely difficult to accurately estimate the cost of carriageway reinstatement in advance, as the extent of any damage is not known until a column is removed. Any reinstatement required is therefore treated as a necessary health and safety-related cost and paid as a re-measurable item following completion of the works.\n\nThe Department does not hold historical information on the installation, maintenance and repair costs of the LED street light upgrades and fixtures over the last 20 years, although I can confirm that the LED lanterns will be reused. I have asked officials to provide copies of the necessary reports detailing the condition of the street lighting system.","answerHtml":"Where street lighting columns are identified as unsafe or at high risk of failure, the Department must act quickly in the interests of public safety and remove or make safe the columns as a matter of urgency. In such cases, works are undertaken reactively and, where possible, contractors liaise with residents to minimise disruption. Where columns are identified as being at the end of their serviceable life and the location meets the criteria for a replacement scheme, residents are issued with advance notice of the planned works.
In relation to the Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, the Department is planning to remove all concrete columns which are at the end of their serviceable life. It would be extremely difficult to accurately estimate the cost of carriageway reinstatement in advance, as the extent of any damage is not known until a column is removed. Any reinstatement required is therefore treated as a necessary health and safety-related cost and paid as a re-measurable item following completion of the works.
The Department does not hold historical information on the installation, maintenance and repair costs of the LED street light upgrades and fixtures over the last 20 years, although I can confirm that the LED lanterns will be reused. I have asked officials to provide copies of the necessary reports detailing the condition of the street lighting system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046786%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486060","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486060"}},{"id":"486059","reference":"AQW 46785/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-21","answerBy":"2026-06-08","answered":"2026-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the estimated cost to reinstate the road, following the proposed removal of street lights in Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, Jordanstown.","answerText":"Where street lighting columns are identified as unsafe or at high risk of failure, the Department must act quickly in the interests of public safety and remove or make safe the columns as a matter of urgency. In such cases, works are undertaken reactively and, where possible, contractors liaise with residents to minimise disruption. Where columns are identified as being at the end of their serviceable life and the location meets the criteria for a replacement scheme, residents are issued with advance notice of the planned works.\n\nIn relation to the Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, the Department is planning to remove all concrete columns which are at the end of their serviceable life. It would be extremely difficult to accurately estimate the cost of carriageway reinstatement in advance, as the extent of any damage is not known until a column is removed. Any reinstatement required is therefore treated as a necessary health and safety-related cost and paid as a re-measurable item following completion of the works.\n\nThe Department does not hold historical information on the installation, maintenance and repair costs of the LED street light upgrades and fixtures over the last 20 years, although I can confirm that the LED lanterns will be reused. I have asked officials to provide copies of the necessary reports detailing the condition of the street lighting system.","answerHtml":"Where street lighting columns are identified as unsafe or at high risk of failure, the Department must act quickly in the interests of public safety and remove or make safe the columns as a matter of urgency. In such cases, works are undertaken reactively and, where possible, contractors liaise with residents to minimise disruption. Where columns are identified as being at the end of their serviceable life and the location meets the criteria for a replacement scheme, residents are issued with advance notice of the planned works.
In relation to the Lenamore Area of Townscape Character, the Department is planning to remove all concrete columns which are at the end of their serviceable life. It would be extremely difficult to accurately estimate the cost of carriageway reinstatement in advance, as the extent of any damage is not known until a column is removed. Any reinstatement required is therefore treated as a necessary health and safety-related cost and paid as a re-measurable item following completion of the works.
The Department does not hold historical information on the installation, maintenance and repair costs of the LED street light upgrades and fixtures over the last 20 years, although I can confirm that the LED lanterns will be reused. I have asked officials to provide copies of the necessary reports detailing the condition of the street lighting system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046785%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486059","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486059"}},{"id":"487704","reference":"AQO 3620/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-21","answerBy":"2026-06-01","answered":"2026-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether sufficient support and oversight is in place to ensure the timely delivery of a new school building at Mary Queen of Peace Primary School in Glenravel, given the revised completion date of July 2027 extends beyond the current Assembly mandate.","answerText":"Construction of a new school building for Mary Queen of Peace Primary School commenced in March 2026, and the anticipated completion date is July 2027.\n\nThis project is contractually committed and therefore delivery of the new building will proceed to completion, independent of the current Assembly mandate.\n\nRobust project management structures are in place to ensure the timely delivery of the new school, with an external Integrated Consultant Team managing the construction contractor to ensure project milestones are achieved.\n\nThe dedicated Project Board has oversight of the entire project and is responsible for ensuring programme and financial controls are adhered to.","answerHtml":"Construction of a new school building for Mary Queen of Peace Primary School commenced in March 2026, and the anticipated completion date is July 2027.
This project is contractually committed and therefore delivery of the new building will proceed to completion, independent of the current Assembly mandate.
Robust project management structures are in place to ensure the timely delivery of the new school, with an external Integrated Consultant Team managing the construction contractor to ensure project milestones are achieved.
The dedicated Project Board has oversight of the entire project and is responsible for ensuring programme and financial controls are adhered to.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203620%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487704","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487704"}},{"id":"485730","reference":"AQW 46675/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-20","answerBy":"2026-06-05","answered":"2026-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail when the first phase of the Regional Obesity Management Service, announced in May 2025, is scheduled to start.","answerText":"Following my announcement on the establishment of a Regional Obesity Management Service for Northern Ireland in May 2025, work has been progressing to implement phase one. This phase will focus on the development of a community-based service where adult patients will have access to lifestyle support to ensure maximum effectiveness, as well as obesity management medication, if clinically appropriate. It is anticipated this phase will be operational later in 2026.\n\nI have secured recurrent funding to support the commencement of the initial phase of the ROMS service. Progression to subsequent phases will be contingent upon the availability of additional funding and service requirements including clinical capacity and specialist support.","answerHtml":"Following my announcement on the establishment of a Regional Obesity Management Service for Northern Ireland in May 2025, work has been progressing to implement phase one. This phase will focus on the development of a community-based service where adult patients will have access to lifestyle support to ensure maximum effectiveness, as well as obesity management medication, if clinically appropriate. It is anticipated this phase will be operational later in 2026.
I have secured recurrent funding to support the commencement of the initial phase of the ROMS service. Progression to subsequent phases will be contingent upon the availability of additional funding and service requirements including clinical capacity and specialist support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046675%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485730","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485730"}},{"id":"485729","reference":"AQW 46674/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-20","answerBy":"2026-06-05","answered":"2026-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how the Regional Obesity Management Service will be funded.","answerText":"Following my announcement on the establishment of a Regional Obesity Management Service for Northern Ireland in May 2025, work has been progressing to implement phase one. This phase will focus on the development of a community-based service where adult patients will have access to lifestyle support to ensure maximum effectiveness, as well as obesity management medication, if clinically appropriate. It is anticipated this phase will be operational later in 2026.\n\nI have secured recurrent funding to support the commencement of the initial phase of the ROMS service. Progression to subsequent phases will be contingent upon the availability of additional funding and service requirements including clinical capacity and specialist support.","answerHtml":"Following my announcement on the establishment of a Regional Obesity Management Service for Northern Ireland in May 2025, work has been progressing to implement phase one. This phase will focus on the development of a community-based service where adult patients will have access to lifestyle support to ensure maximum effectiveness, as well as obesity management medication, if clinically appropriate. It is anticipated this phase will be operational later in 2026.
I have secured recurrent funding to support the commencement of the initial phase of the ROMS service. Progression to subsequent phases will be contingent upon the availability of additional funding and service requirements including clinical capacity and specialist support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046674%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485729","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485729"}},{"id":"484293","reference":"AQW 46036/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-12","answerBy":"2026-05-18","answered":"2026-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of appointments and procedures that were cancelled or postponed as a result of the computer system outage in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust on 11 May 2026.","answerText":"Following the computer system outage within Belfast Health and Social Care Trust on Monday 11 May 2026, a manual count identified that 20 inpatient/day case procedures and 321 outpatient appointments were cancelled. Of these, 269 patients have since had their procedure or appointment rescheduled.\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust colleagues are urgently working to rebook all the remaining affected patients, ensuring that no one is disadvantaged as a result of the computer outage.","answerHtml":"Following the computer system outage within Belfast Health and Social Care Trust on Monday 11 May 2026, a manual count identified that 20 inpatient/day case procedures and 321 outpatient appointments were cancelled. Of these, 269 patients have since had their procedure or appointment rescheduled.
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust colleagues are urgently working to rebook all the remaining affected patients, ensuring that no one is disadvantaged as a result of the computer outage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046036%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=484293","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=484293"}},{"id":"483829","reference":"AQW 45816/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-08","answerBy":"2026-05-26","answered":"2026-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 38730/22-27, to detail (i) an update on the scoping exercise regarding the feasibility and sustainability of an industry levy on licensed gambling operators; and (ii) whether his Department has now determined if this levy can be implemented within the 2022-27 Assembly mandate.","answerText":"I refer the Member to AQW 45177/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to AQW 45177/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045816%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483829","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483829"}},{"id":"483828","reference":"AQW 45815/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-08","answerBy":"2026-05-26","answered":"2026-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 36349/22-27, whether he will publish the Gambling Code of Practice before the Assembly's 2026 summer recess.","answerText":"I refer the Member to AQW 45176/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to AQW 45176/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045815%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483828","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483828"}},{"id":"483827","reference":"AQW 45814/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-08","answerBy":"2026-05-26","answered":"2026-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any discussions his Department has had with the Department for Communities in relation to the implementation of the industry levy on licensed gambling operators.","answerText":"Officials within my Department have, on a number of occasions, engaged with colleagues in the Department for Communities (DfC) in relation to gambling policy, including consideration of a potential levy. These are set out below:\n\n26 November 2025 – Cross Departmental Working Group on Preventing and Treating Gambling Related Harm.\n\n10 March 2026 – DoH/DfC introductory meeting due to policy responsibility change over.\n\n26 March 2026 – DfC and DoH gambling update meeting.\n\n13 April 2026 – DoH and DfC gambling update meeting.\n\nThe Department of Health is committed to continuing its engagement with officials in the DfC in relation to gambling policy.","answerHtml":"Officials within my Department have, on a number of occasions, engaged with colleagues in the Department for Communities (DfC) in relation to gambling policy, including consideration of a potential levy. These are set out below:
26 November 2025 – Cross Departmental Working Group on Preventing and Treating Gambling Related Harm.
10 March 2026 – DoH/DfC introductory meeting due to policy responsibility change over.
26 March 2026 – DfC and DoH gambling update meeting.
13 April 2026 – DoH and DfC gambling update meeting.
The Department of Health is committed to continuing its engagement with officials in the DfC in relation to gambling policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045814%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483827","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483827"}},{"id":"483826","reference":"AQW 45813/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-08","answerBy":"2026-05-26","answered":"2026-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 38730/22-27 and AQO 2695/22-27, to detail any engagement his Department has had with the Department of Health as part of the ongoing scoping exercise on the feasibility and sustainability of an industry levy on licensed gambling operators.","answerText":"I refer the Member to AQW 45180/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to AQW 45180/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045813%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483826","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483826"}},{"id":"483825","reference":"AQW 45812/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-08","answerBy":"2026-05-26","answered":"2026-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any role the Department of Health will have in determining the allocation of funding from the industry levy on licensed gambling operators when it is implemented.","answerText":"I refer the Member to AQW 45178/22–27.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to AQW 45178/22–27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045812%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483825","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483825"}},{"id":"482968","reference":"AQW 45445/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-05","answerBy":"2026-05-08","answered":"2026-05-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of people who will be affected by Connected Health’s decision to withdraw from delivering contracted domiciliary care services in rural areas; and (ii) any steps being taking to ensure these people will continue to be supported in their homes.","answerText":"My Department can confirm that since 1 May 2026, Connected Health Care NI Limited/Connected Health Domiciliary Care Limited has not withdrawn any home care packages in rural areas across any Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nI can confirm that since 1 May 2026, Connected Health have however taken on 44 new home care packages of care across the region.\n\nThere are approximately a total of 3196 individuals in receipt of HSC Trust organised home care, via Connected Health care agencies. This figure includes both rural and urban areas.\n\nIn the event of any care agency withdrawing from a home care support package, HSC Trusts undertake a number of measures to do all they can to continue to support individuals in their own home. Whilst not an exhaustive list, steps include;\n\nEnsuring open communication at all times with individuals affected and their family/carer as appropriate.\n\nConfirming all efforts have been made to resolve the reason for the handback.\n\nRequesting the existing care provider to maintain the support until an alternative provider can be sourced.\n\nEnsuring the home care support package is immediately re-issued via the brokerage system to secure a new care provider.\n\nIn the event alternative care provision cannot be sourced immediately, the need will be added to the waiting list for home care provision and discussions with the individual and family will ensue to put contingency plans in place such as Direct Payments and family support where possible.\n\nEach contingency plan will be bespoke to individuals.","answerHtml":"My Department can confirm that since 1 May 2026, Connected Health Care NI Limited/Connected Health Domiciliary Care Limited has not withdrawn any home care packages in rural areas across any Health and Social Care Trusts.
I can confirm that since 1 May 2026, Connected Health have however taken on 44 new home care packages of care across the region.
There are approximately a total of 3196 individuals in receipt of HSC Trust organised home care, via Connected Health care agencies. This figure includes both rural and urban areas.
In the event of any care agency withdrawing from a home care support package, HSC Trusts undertake a number of measures to do all they can to continue to support individuals in their own home. Whilst not an exhaustive list, steps include;
Ensuring open communication at all times with individuals affected and their family/carer as appropriate.
Confirming all efforts have been made to resolve the reason for the handback.
Requesting the existing care provider to maintain the support until an alternative provider can be sourced.
Ensuring the home care support package is immediately re-issued via the brokerage system to secure a new care provider.
In the event alternative care provision cannot be sourced immediately, the need will be added to the waiting list for home care provision and discussions with the individual and family will ensue to put contingency plans in place such as Direct Payments and family support where possible.
Each contingency plan will be bespoke to individuals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045445%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482968","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482968"}},{"id":"482707","reference":"AQW 45328/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-01","answerBy":"2026-05-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of times the two hour ambulance handover target has been breached since the commencement of the Release to Rescue protocol, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045328%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482707","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482707"}},{"id":"482706","reference":"AQW 45327/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-01","answerBy":"2026-05-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of times the Release to Rescue protocol has been initiated since its commencement, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045327%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482706","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482706"}},{"id":"482447","reference":"AQW 45203/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-30","answerBy":"2026-05-18","answered":"2026-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of posts currently being recruited for in (i) nursing; and (ii) allied health professions, broken down by (a) speciality; and (b) Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Information on Health and Social Care (HSC) vacancies actively being recruited by staff group and organisation is published by my Department on a quarterly basis at the link below. The latest information available refers to 31 December 2025. https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/staff-vacancies\n\nA breakdown of registered nursing and allied health profession (AHP) vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below. Vacancies actively being recruited at 31 March 2026 will be published and available at the above link on Tuesday 2nd June 2026.\n\nHSC Registered Nursing Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nRegistered Nursing\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nHealth Visitors\t9\t8\t6\t2\t3\t0\t28\nDistrict Nurses\t1\t2\t0\t1\t2\t0\t6\nPaediatric Nurses\t47\t4\t2\t18\t10\t0\t81\nMental Health Nurses\t89\t16\t21\t41\t38\t0\t205\nLearning Disability Nurses\t4\t8\t3\t23\t2\t0\t40\nAll Other Registered Nurses\t293\t219\t133\t71\t133\t3\t852\nTotal\t443\t257\t165\t156\t188\t3\t1,212\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\nHSC Allied Health Profession Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nAllied Health Professions\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nPhysiotherapists\t36\t13\t22\t17\t20\t0\t108\nOccupational Therapists\t31\t24\t26\t15\t20\t0\t116\nSpeech & Language Therapists\t14\t4\t9\t12\t3\t0\t42\nPodiatrists\t8\t2\t3\t3\t4\t0\t20\nDietitians\t3\t5\t3\t2\t5\t0\t18\nOrthoptists\t1\t0\t0\t1\t1\t0\t3\nRadiographers\t21\t13\t6\t10\t8\t1\t59\nParamedics\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t11\t11\nTotal\t114\t61\t69\t60\t61\t12\t377\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\nGraduate specific vacancies cannot be explicitly identified, however, new graduates would ordinarily commence employment at Band 5. A breakdown of registered nursing and AHP band 5 vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below.\n\nHSC Registered Nursing Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nRegistered Nursing\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nHealth Visitors\t1\t3\t1\t0\t0\t0\t5\nDistrict Nurses\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nPaediatric Nurses\t38\t3\t1\t13\t7\t0\t62\nMental Health Nurses\t66\t14\t12\t21\t27\t0\t140\nLearning Disability Nurses\t4\t3\t1\t13\t1\t0\t22\nAll Other Registered Nurses\t202\t179\t103\t41\t84\t1\t610\nTotal\t311\t202\t118\t88\t119\t1\t839\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\nHSC Allied Health Profession Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nAllied Health Professions\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nPhysiotherapists\t13\t0\t8\t1\t5\t0\t27\nOccupational Therapists\t6\t10\t15\t1\t8\t0\t40\nSpeech & Language Therapists\t2\t0\t2\t1\t1\t0\t6\nPodiatrists\t5\t2\t3\t2\t3\t0\t15\nDietitians\t0\t1\t0\t0\t4\t0\t5\nOrthoptists\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nRadiographers\t5\t2\t0\t2\t2\t1\t12\nParamedics\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t1\t1\nTotal\t31\t15\t28\t7\t23\t2\t106\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH","answerHtml":"Information on Health and Social Care (HSC) vacancies actively being recruited by staff group and organisation is published by my Department on a quarterly basis at the link below. The latest information available refers to 31 December 2025. https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/staff-vacancies
A breakdown of registered nursing and allied health profession (AHP) vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below. Vacancies actively being recruited at 31 March 2026 will be published and available at the above link on Tuesday 2nd June 2026.
HSC Registered Nursing Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Registered Nursing | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Health Visitors | 9 | 8 | 6 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 28 |
| District Nurses | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 6 |
| Paediatric Nurses | 47 | 4 | 2 | 18 | 10 | 0 | 81 |
| Mental Health Nurses | 89 | 16 | 21 | 41 | 38 | 0 | 205 |
| Learning Disability Nurses | 4 | 8 | 3 | 23 | 2 | 0 | 40 |
| All Other Registered Nurses | 293 | 219 | 133 | 71 | 133 | 3 | 852 |
| Total | 443 | 257 | 165 | 156 | 188 | 3 | 1,212 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
HSC Allied Health Profession Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Allied Health Professions | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Physiotherapists | 36 | 13 | 22 | 17 | 20 | 0 | 108 |
| Occupational Therapists | 31 | 24 | 26 | 15 | 20 | 0 | 116 |
| Speech & Language Therapists | 14 | 4 | 9 | 12 | 3 | 0 | 42 |
| Podiatrists | 8 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 0 | 20 |
| Dietitians | 3 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 0 | 18 |
| Orthoptists | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| Radiographers | 21 | 13 | 6 | 10 | 8 | 1 | 59 |
| Paramedics | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 11 | 11 |
| Total | 114 | 61 | 69 | 60 | 61 | 12 | 377 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
Graduate specific vacancies cannot be explicitly identified, however, new graduates would ordinarily commence employment at Band 5. A breakdown of registered nursing and AHP band 5 vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below.
HSC Registered Nursing Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Registered Nursing | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Health Visitors | 1 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| District Nurses | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Paediatric Nurses | 38 | 3 | 1 | 13 | 7 | 0 | 62 |
| Mental Health Nurses | 66 | 14 | 12 | 21 | 27 | 0 | 140 |
| Learning Disability Nurses | 4 | 3 | 1 | 13 | 1 | 0 | 22 |
| All Other Registered Nurses | 202 | 179 | 103 | 41 | 84 | 1 | 610 |
| Total | 311 | 202 | 118 | 88 | 119 | 1 | 839 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
HSC Allied Health Profession Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Allied Health Professions | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Physiotherapists | 13 | 0 | 8 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 27 |
| Occupational Therapists | 6 | 10 | 15 | 1 | 8 | 0 | 40 |
| Speech & Language Therapists | 2 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 6 |
| Podiatrists | 5 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 15 |
| Dietitians | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 5 |
| Orthoptists | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Radiographers | 5 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 12 |
| Paramedics | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Total | 31 | 15 | 28 | 7 | 23 | 2 | 106 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045203%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482447","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482447"}},{"id":"482446","reference":"AQW 45202/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-30","answerBy":"2026-05-18","answered":"2026-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of posts being recruited for that are open to recent graduates in (i) nursing; and (ii) allied health professions, broken down by (a) speciality; and (b) Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Information on Health and Social Care (HSC) vacancies actively being recruited by staff group and organisation is published by my Department on a quarterly basis at the link below. The latest information available refers to 31 December 2025. https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/staff-vacancies\n\nA breakdown of registered nursing and allied health profession (AHP) vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below. Vacancies actively being recruited at 31 March 2026 will be published and available at the above link on Tuesday 2nd June 2026.\n\nHSC Registered Nursing Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nRegistered Nursing\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nHealth Visitors\t9\t8\t6\t2\t3\t0\t28\nDistrict Nurses\t1\t2\t0\t1\t2\t0\t6\nPaediatric Nurses\t47\t4\t2\t18\t10\t0\t81\nMental Health Nurses\t89\t16\t21\t41\t38\t0\t205\nLearning Disability Nurses\t4\t8\t3\t23\t2\t0\t40\nAll Other Registered Nurses\t293\t219\t133\t71\t133\t3\t852\nTotal\t443\t257\t165\t156\t188\t3\t1,212\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\nHSC Allied Health Profession Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nAllied Health Professions\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nPhysiotherapists\t36\t13\t22\t17\t20\t0\t108\nOccupational Therapists\t31\t24\t26\t15\t20\t0\t116\nSpeech & Language Therapists\t14\t4\t9\t12\t3\t0\t42\nPodiatrists\t8\t2\t3\t3\t4\t0\t20\nDietitians\t3\t5\t3\t2\t5\t0\t18\nOrthoptists\t1\t0\t0\t1\t1\t0\t3\nRadiographers\t21\t13\t6\t10\t8\t1\t59\nParamedics\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t11\t11\nTotal\t114\t61\t69\t60\t61\t12\t377\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\nGraduate specific vacancies cannot be explicitly identified, however, new graduates would ordinarily commence employment at Band 5. A breakdown of registered nursing and AHP band 5 vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below.\n\nHSC Registered Nursing Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nRegistered Nursing\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nHealth Visitors\t1\t3\t1\t0\t0\t0\t5\nDistrict Nurses\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nPaediatric Nurses\t38\t3\t1\t13\t7\t0\t62\nMental Health Nurses\t66\t14\t12\t21\t27\t0\t140\nLearning Disability Nurses\t4\t3\t1\t13\t1\t0\t22\nAll Other Registered Nurses\t202\t179\t103\t41\t84\t1\t610\nTotal\t311\t202\t118\t88\t119\t1\t839\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\nHSC Allied Health Profession Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nAllied Health Professions\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nPhysiotherapists\t13\t0\t8\t1\t5\t0\t27\nOccupational Therapists\t6\t10\t15\t1\t8\t0\t40\nSpeech & Language Therapists\t2\t0\t2\t1\t1\t0\t6\nPodiatrists\t5\t2\t3\t2\t3\t0\t15\nDietitians\t0\t1\t0\t0\t4\t0\t5\nOrthoptists\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nRadiographers\t5\t2\t0\t2\t2\t1\t12\nParamedics\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t1\t1\nTotal\t31\t15\t28\t7\t23\t2\t106\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH","answerHtml":"Information on Health and Social Care (HSC) vacancies actively being recruited by staff group and organisation is published by my Department on a quarterly basis at the link below. The latest information available refers to 31 December 2025. https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/staff-vacancies
A breakdown of registered nursing and allied health profession (AHP) vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below. Vacancies actively being recruited at 31 March 2026 will be published and available at the above link on Tuesday 2nd June 2026.
HSC Registered Nursing Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Registered Nursing | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Health Visitors | 9 | 8 | 6 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 28 |
| District Nurses | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 6 |
| Paediatric Nurses | 47 | 4 | 2 | 18 | 10 | 0 | 81 |
| Mental Health Nurses | 89 | 16 | 21 | 41 | 38 | 0 | 205 |
| Learning Disability Nurses | 4 | 8 | 3 | 23 | 2 | 0 | 40 |
| All Other Registered Nurses | 293 | 219 | 133 | 71 | 133 | 3 | 852 |
| Total | 443 | 257 | 165 | 156 | 188 | 3 | 1,212 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
HSC Allied Health Profession Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Allied Health Professions | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Physiotherapists | 36 | 13 | 22 | 17 | 20 | 0 | 108 |
| Occupational Therapists | 31 | 24 | 26 | 15 | 20 | 0 | 116 |
| Speech & Language Therapists | 14 | 4 | 9 | 12 | 3 | 0 | 42 |
| Podiatrists | 8 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 0 | 20 |
| Dietitians | 3 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 0 | 18 |
| Orthoptists | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| Radiographers | 21 | 13 | 6 | 10 | 8 | 1 | 59 |
| Paramedics | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 11 | 11 |
| Total | 114 | 61 | 69 | 60 | 61 | 12 | 377 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
Graduate specific vacancies cannot be explicitly identified, however, new graduates would ordinarily commence employment at Band 5. A breakdown of registered nursing and AHP band 5 vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below.
HSC Registered Nursing Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Registered Nursing | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Health Visitors | 1 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| District Nurses | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Paediatric Nurses | 38 | 3 | 1 | 13 | 7 | 0 | 62 |
| Mental Health Nurses | 66 | 14 | 12 | 21 | 27 | 0 | 140 |
| Learning Disability Nurses | 4 | 3 | 1 | 13 | 1 | 0 | 22 |
| All Other Registered Nurses | 202 | 179 | 103 | 41 | 84 | 1 | 610 |
| Total | 311 | 202 | 118 | 88 | 119 | 1 | 839 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
HSC Allied Health Profession Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Allied Health Professions | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Physiotherapists | 13 | 0 | 8 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 27 |
| Occupational Therapists | 6 | 10 | 15 | 1 | 8 | 0 | 40 |
| Speech & Language Therapists | 2 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 6 |
| Podiatrists | 5 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 15 |
| Dietitians | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 5 |
| Orthoptists | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Radiographers | 5 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 12 |
| Paramedics | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Total | 31 | 15 | 28 | 7 | 23 | 2 | 106 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045202%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482446","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482446"}},{"id":"482445","reference":"AQW 45201/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-30","answerBy":"2026-05-18","answered":"2026-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of vacancies in (i) nursing; and (ii) allied health professions, broken down by (a) speciality; and Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Information on Health and Social Care (HSC) vacancies actively being recruited by staff group and organisation is published by my Department on a quarterly basis at the link below. The latest information available refers to 31 December 2025. https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/staff-vacancies\n\nA breakdown of registered nursing and allied health profession (AHP) vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below. Vacancies actively being recruited at 31 March 2026 will be published and available at the above link on Tuesday 2nd June 2026.\n\nHSC Registered Nursing Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nRegistered Nursing\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nHealth Visitors\t9\t8\t6\t2\t3\t0\t28\nDistrict Nurses\t1\t2\t0\t1\t2\t0\t6\nPaediatric Nurses\t47\t4\t2\t18\t10\t0\t81\nMental Health Nurses\t89\t16\t21\t41\t38\t0\t205\nLearning Disability Nurses\t4\t8\t3\t23\t2\t0\t40\nAll Other Registered Nurses\t293\t219\t133\t71\t133\t3\t852\nTotal\t443\t257\t165\t156\t188\t3\t1,212\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\nHSC Allied Health Profession Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nAllied Health Professions\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nPhysiotherapists\t36\t13\t22\t17\t20\t0\t108\nOccupational Therapists\t31\t24\t26\t15\t20\t0\t116\nSpeech & Language Therapists\t14\t4\t9\t12\t3\t0\t42\nPodiatrists\t8\t2\t3\t3\t4\t0\t20\nDietitians\t3\t5\t3\t2\t5\t0\t18\nOrthoptists\t1\t0\t0\t1\t1\t0\t3\nRadiographers\t21\t13\t6\t10\t8\t1\t59\nParamedics\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t11\t11\nTotal\t114\t61\t69\t60\t61\t12\t377\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\nGraduate specific vacancies cannot be explicitly identified, however, new graduates would ordinarily commence employment at Band 5. A breakdown of registered nursing and AHP band 5 vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below.\n\nHSC Registered Nursing Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nRegistered Nursing\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nHealth Visitors\t1\t3\t1\t0\t0\t0\t5\nDistrict Nurses\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nPaediatric Nurses\t38\t3\t1\t13\t7\t0\t62\nMental Health Nurses\t66\t14\t12\t21\t27\t0\t140\nLearning Disability Nurses\t4\t3\t1\t13\t1\t0\t22\nAll Other Registered Nurses\t202\t179\t103\t41\t84\t1\t610\nTotal\t311\t202\t118\t88\t119\t1\t839\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\nHSC Allied Health Profession Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025\n\nAllied Health Professions\tBelfast\nHSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tOther HSC Orgs\tTotal\nPhysiotherapists\t13\t0\t8\t1\t5\t0\t27\nOccupational Therapists\t6\t10\t15\t1\t8\t0\t40\nSpeech & Language Therapists\t2\t0\t2\t1\t1\t0\t6\nPodiatrists\t5\t2\t3\t2\t3\t0\t15\nDietitians\t0\t1\t0\t0\t4\t0\t5\nOrthoptists\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nRadiographers\t5\t2\t0\t2\t2\t1\t12\nParamedics\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\t1\t1\nTotal\t31\t15\t28\t7\t23\t2\t106\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH","answerHtml":"Information on Health and Social Care (HSC) vacancies actively being recruited by staff group and organisation is published by my Department on a quarterly basis at the link below. The latest information available refers to 31 December 2025. https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/staff-vacancies
A breakdown of registered nursing and allied health profession (AHP) vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below. Vacancies actively being recruited at 31 March 2026 will be published and available at the above link on Tuesday 2nd June 2026.
HSC Registered Nursing Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Registered Nursing | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Health Visitors | 9 | 8 | 6 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 28 |
| District Nurses | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 6 |
| Paediatric Nurses | 47 | 4 | 2 | 18 | 10 | 0 | 81 |
| Mental Health Nurses | 89 | 16 | 21 | 41 | 38 | 0 | 205 |
| Learning Disability Nurses | 4 | 8 | 3 | 23 | 2 | 0 | 40 |
| All Other Registered Nurses | 293 | 219 | 133 | 71 | 133 | 3 | 852 |
| Total | 443 | 257 | 165 | 156 | 188 | 3 | 1,212 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
HSC Allied Health Profession Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Allied Health Professions | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Physiotherapists | 36 | 13 | 22 | 17 | 20 | 0 | 108 |
| Occupational Therapists | 31 | 24 | 26 | 15 | 20 | 0 | 116 |
| Speech & Language Therapists | 14 | 4 | 9 | 12 | 3 | 0 | 42 |
| Podiatrists | 8 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 0 | 20 |
| Dietitians | 3 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 0 | 18 |
| Orthoptists | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| Radiographers | 21 | 13 | 6 | 10 | 8 | 1 | 59 |
| Paramedics | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 11 | 11 |
| Total | 114 | 61 | 69 | 60 | 61 | 12 | 377 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
Graduate specific vacancies cannot be explicitly identified, however, new graduates would ordinarily commence employment at Band 5. A breakdown of registered nursing and AHP band 5 vacancies actively being recruited at 31 December 2025, broken down by HSC Trust, is detailed in the tables below.
HSC Registered Nursing Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Registered Nursing | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Health Visitors | 1 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| District Nurses | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Paediatric Nurses | 38 | 3 | 1 | 13 | 7 | 0 | 62 |
| Mental Health Nurses | 66 | 14 | 12 | 21 | 27 | 0 | 140 |
| Learning Disability Nurses | 4 | 3 | 1 | 13 | 1 | 0 | 22 |
| All Other Registered Nurses | 202 | 179 | 103 | 41 | 84 | 1 | 610 |
| Total | 311 | 202 | 118 | 88 | 119 | 1 | 839 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
HSC Allied Health Profession Band 5 Vacancies Actively Being Recruited, at 31 December 2025
| Allied Health Professions | Belfast HSCT | Northern HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Other HSC Orgs | Total |
| Physiotherapists | 13 | 0 | 8 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 27 |
| Occupational Therapists | 6 | 10 | 15 | 1 | 8 | 0 | 40 |
| Speech & Language Therapists | 2 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 6 |
| Podiatrists | 5 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 15 |
| Dietitians | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 5 |
| Orthoptists | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Radiographers | 5 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 12 |
| Paramedics | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Total | 31 | 15 | 28 | 7 | 23 | 2 | 106 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045201%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482445","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482445"}},{"id":"481733","reference":"AQW 44849/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-27","answerBy":"2026-05-13","answered":"2026-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps he has taken to prevent adverse impacts of the Release to Rescue protocol on (i) Emergency Departments; (ii) hospital wards; and (iii) the number and length of stay for patients in corridor beds.","answerText":"I recognise that ambulance handover delays directly affect the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service’s (NIAS) capacity to respond to emergency calls. Preventing and reducing these delays is therefore a priority for my Department and for Health and Social Care (HSC) services.\n\nThe impact of the Release to Rescue protocol on ambulance response times and patient flow across Emergency Departments and hospitals will be measured through established performance, quality and safety monitoring arrangements operating at Trust, regional and Departmental levels, in partnership with NIAS.\n\nMy Department monitors ambulance handover performance using daily NIAS reports detailing the number of delays exceeding the twohour threshold, alongside routine reporting on average and maximum handover times. The twohour threshold represents an important step within a phased approach to reducing handover delays, with the longerterm ambition of achieving the 15minute standard. Under Release to Rescue, patients who are clinically appropriate are transferred from ambulances into a designated Emergency Department care area, enabling ambulance crews to be released back into service more quickly while ensuring ongoing patient care and safety. Performance data before and after implementation of the protocol will be compared, alongside continued monitoring of ambulance response times across the region.\n\nEmergency Department overcrowding and patient flow is assessed using established indicators, including fourhour performance for assessment, treatment and discharge or admission, and the number of patients waiting over 12 hours. These measures are already subject to regular review through Trust, regional and Departmental performance arrangements and will be used to identify any changes associated with the operation of Release to Rescue.\n\nTo prevent adverse impacts of the Release to Rescue protocol on Emergency Departments, hospital wards and the use of corridor beds, my Department has worked closely with NIAS and Trusts to support sustained, systemwide actions to improve patient flow, discharge capacity and ambulance handover performance across the unscheduled care system. In advance of winter 2025/26, repurposed funding was allocated to Trusts to support delivery of Unscheduled Care Improvement Plans aligned to the overarching Winter Preparedness Plan, with a specific focus on improving ambulance handover delays. This funding supported additional shortstay and escalation capacity, expansion of Hospital at Home services, enhanced frailty assessment at the front door, and strengthened discharge coordination and community support arrangements.\n\nA range of mitigation measures were implemented during 2025/26 to support system resilience and patient safety. Following the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) report’s recommendations to increase Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) activity and reduce unwarranted variation, an SDEC Task and Finish Group was established to drive regional improvement. SDEC services continue to support same-day assessment and treatment for suitable patients, helping to reduce avoidable admissions.\n\nPerformance of ambulance handover delays and Emergency Department standards continues to be overseen through established escalation and assurance arrangements, including the Support and Intervention Framework (SIF) and senior operational review through Strategic Oversight and Monitoring (SOM) processes.\n\nThe Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group, working in partnership with the encompass Programme, is identifying appropriate reports from the Epic system to support consistent daily reporting of corridor care. This will enable the monitoring of bed availability and use of corridor beds using definitions agreed for Northern Ireland, including the number of patients affected and the length of time spent in nonstandard care areas. These reports will allow the Department to assess any impact that improved ambulance handover performance may have on corridor care across hospitals.","answerHtml":"I recognise that ambulance handover delays directly affect the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service’s (NIAS) capacity to respond to emergency calls. Preventing and reducing these delays is therefore a priority for my Department and for Health and Social Care (HSC) services.
The impact of the Release to Rescue protocol on ambulance response times and patient flow across Emergency Departments and hospitals will be measured through established performance, quality and safety monitoring arrangements operating at Trust, regional and Departmental levels, in partnership with NIAS.
My Department monitors ambulance handover performance using daily NIAS reports detailing the number of delays exceeding the twohour threshold, alongside routine reporting on average and maximum handover times. The twohour threshold represents an important step within a phased approach to reducing handover delays, with the longerterm ambition of achieving the 15minute standard. Under Release to Rescue, patients who are clinically appropriate are transferred from ambulances into a designated Emergency Department care area, enabling ambulance crews to be released back into service more quickly while ensuring ongoing patient care and safety. Performance data before and after implementation of the protocol will be compared, alongside continued monitoring of ambulance response times across the region.
Emergency Department overcrowding and patient flow is assessed using established indicators, including fourhour performance for assessment, treatment and discharge or admission, and the number of patients waiting over 12 hours. These measures are already subject to regular review through Trust, regional and Departmental performance arrangements and will be used to identify any changes associated with the operation of Release to Rescue.
To prevent adverse impacts of the Release to Rescue protocol on Emergency Departments, hospital wards and the use of corridor beds, my Department has worked closely with NIAS and Trusts to support sustained, systemwide actions to improve patient flow, discharge capacity and ambulance handover performance across the unscheduled care system. In advance of winter 2025/26, repurposed funding was allocated to Trusts to support delivery of Unscheduled Care Improvement Plans aligned to the overarching Winter Preparedness Plan, with a specific focus on improving ambulance handover delays. This funding supported additional shortstay and escalation capacity, expansion of Hospital at Home services, enhanced frailty assessment at the front door, and strengthened discharge coordination and community support arrangements.
A range of mitigation measures were implemented during 2025/26 to support system resilience and patient safety. Following the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) report’s recommendations to increase Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) activity and reduce unwarranted variation, an SDEC Task and Finish Group was established to drive regional improvement. SDEC services continue to support same-day assessment and treatment for suitable patients, helping to reduce avoidable admissions.
Performance of ambulance handover delays and Emergency Department standards continues to be overseen through established escalation and assurance arrangements, including the Support and Intervention Framework (SIF) and senior operational review through Strategic Oversight and Monitoring (SOM) processes.
The Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group, working in partnership with the encompass Programme, is identifying appropriate reports from the Epic system to support consistent daily reporting of corridor care. This will enable the monitoring of bed availability and use of corridor beds using definitions agreed for Northern Ireland, including the number of patients affected and the length of time spent in nonstandard care areas. These reports will allow the Department to assess any impact that improved ambulance handover performance may have on corridor care across hospitals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044849%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481733","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481733"}},{"id":"481732","reference":"AQW 44848/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-27","answerBy":"2026-05-13","answered":"2026-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how he intends to measure the impact of the Release to Rescue protocol on (i) ambulance waiting times; (ii) overcrowding and waiting times in Emergency Departments; and (iii) the number and length of stay of patients in corridor beds on wards.","answerText":"I recognise that ambulance handover delays directly affect the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service’s (NIAS) capacity to respond to emergency calls. Preventing and reducing these delays is therefore a priority for my Department and for Health and Social Care (HSC) services.\n\nThe impact of the Release to Rescue protocol on ambulance response times and patient flow across Emergency Departments and hospitals will be measured through established performance, quality and safety monitoring arrangements operating at Trust, regional and Departmental levels, in partnership with NIAS.\n\nMy Department monitors ambulance handover performance using daily NIAS reports detailing the number of delays exceeding the twohour threshold, alongside routine reporting on average and maximum handover times. The twohour threshold represents an important step within a phased approach to reducing handover delays, with the longerterm ambition of achieving the 15minute standard. Under Release to Rescue, patients who are clinically appropriate are transferred from ambulances into a designated Emergency Department care area, enabling ambulance crews to be released back into service more quickly while ensuring ongoing patient care and safety. Performance data before and after implementation of the protocol will be compared, alongside continued monitoring of ambulance response times across the region.\n\nEmergency Department overcrowding and patient flow is assessed using established indicators, including fourhour performance for assessment, treatment and discharge or admission, and the number of patients waiting over 12 hours. These measures are already subject to regular review through Trust, regional and Departmental performance arrangements and will be used to identify any changes associated with the operation of Release to Rescue.\n\nTo prevent adverse impacts of the Release to Rescue protocol on Emergency Departments, hospital wards and the use of corridor beds, my Department has worked closely with NIAS and Trusts to support sustained, systemwide actions to improve patient flow, discharge capacity and ambulance handover performance across the unscheduled care system. In advance of winter 2025/26, repurposed funding was allocated to Trusts to support delivery of Unscheduled Care Improvement Plans aligned to the overarching Winter Preparedness Plan, with a specific focus on improving ambulance handover delays. This funding supported additional shortstay and escalation capacity, expansion of Hospital at Home services, enhanced frailty assessment at the front door, and strengthened discharge coordination and community support arrangements.\n\nA range of mitigation measures were implemented during 2025/26 to support system resilience and patient safety. Following the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) report’s recommendations to increase Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) activity and reduce unwarranted variation, an SDEC Task and Finish Group was established to drive regional improvement. SDEC services continue to support same-day assessment and treatment for suitable patients, helping to reduce avoidable admissions.\n\nPerformance of ambulance handover delays and Emergency Department standards continues to be overseen through established escalation and assurance arrangements, including the Support and Intervention Framework (SIF) and senior operational review through Strategic Oversight and Monitoring (SOM) processes.\n\nThe Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group, working in partnership with the encompass Programme, is identifying appropriate reports from the Epic system to support consistent daily reporting of corridor care. This will enable the monitoring of bed availability and use of corridor beds using definitions agreed for Northern Ireland, including the number of patients affected and the length of time spent in nonstandard care areas. These reports will allow the Department to assess any impact that improved ambulance handover performance may have on corridor care across hospitals.","answerHtml":"I recognise that ambulance handover delays directly affect the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service’s (NIAS) capacity to respond to emergency calls. Preventing and reducing these delays is therefore a priority for my Department and for Health and Social Care (HSC) services.
The impact of the Release to Rescue protocol on ambulance response times and patient flow across Emergency Departments and hospitals will be measured through established performance, quality and safety monitoring arrangements operating at Trust, regional and Departmental levels, in partnership with NIAS.
My Department monitors ambulance handover performance using daily NIAS reports detailing the number of delays exceeding the twohour threshold, alongside routine reporting on average and maximum handover times. The twohour threshold represents an important step within a phased approach to reducing handover delays, with the longerterm ambition of achieving the 15minute standard. Under Release to Rescue, patients who are clinically appropriate are transferred from ambulances into a designated Emergency Department care area, enabling ambulance crews to be released back into service more quickly while ensuring ongoing patient care and safety. Performance data before and after implementation of the protocol will be compared, alongside continued monitoring of ambulance response times across the region.
Emergency Department overcrowding and patient flow is assessed using established indicators, including fourhour performance for assessment, treatment and discharge or admission, and the number of patients waiting over 12 hours. These measures are already subject to regular review through Trust, regional and Departmental performance arrangements and will be used to identify any changes associated with the operation of Release to Rescue.
To prevent adverse impacts of the Release to Rescue protocol on Emergency Departments, hospital wards and the use of corridor beds, my Department has worked closely with NIAS and Trusts to support sustained, systemwide actions to improve patient flow, discharge capacity and ambulance handover performance across the unscheduled care system. In advance of winter 2025/26, repurposed funding was allocated to Trusts to support delivery of Unscheduled Care Improvement Plans aligned to the overarching Winter Preparedness Plan, with a specific focus on improving ambulance handover delays. This funding supported additional shortstay and escalation capacity, expansion of Hospital at Home services, enhanced frailty assessment at the front door, and strengthened discharge coordination and community support arrangements.
A range of mitigation measures were implemented during 2025/26 to support system resilience and patient safety. Following the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) report’s recommendations to increase Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) activity and reduce unwarranted variation, an SDEC Task and Finish Group was established to drive regional improvement. SDEC services continue to support same-day assessment and treatment for suitable patients, helping to reduce avoidable admissions.
Performance of ambulance handover delays and Emergency Department standards continues to be overseen through established escalation and assurance arrangements, including the Support and Intervention Framework (SIF) and senior operational review through Strategic Oversight and Monitoring (SOM) processes.
The Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group, working in partnership with the encompass Programme, is identifying appropriate reports from the Epic system to support consistent daily reporting of corridor care. This will enable the monitoring of bed availability and use of corridor beds using definitions agreed for Northern Ireland, including the number of patients affected and the length of time spent in nonstandard care areas. These reports will allow the Department to assess any impact that improved ambulance handover performance may have on corridor care across hospitals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044848%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481732","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481732"}},{"id":"480011","reference":"AQW 43929/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-15","answerBy":"2026-04-30","answered":"2026-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of Emergency Departments attendances during night-time economy hours, in 2025 in the (i) Belfast Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, triaged as category (a) 4; and (b) 5, broken down by whether (i) no medical intervention was required; and (ii) the attendance could have been treated in an alternative setting by first aid.","answerText":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts do not routinely collect or report a standard data item that identifies Emergency Department (ED) attendances as alcoholrelated. Where alcohol consumption may be a contributing factor, ED attendances are recorded and coded according to the primary clinical reason for presentation (for example, a fall or injury), rather than alcohol use itself. As a result, alcoholrelated attendances cannot be reliably identified from routinely collected ED data.\n\nIn addition, “nighttime economy hours” is not a nationally defined reporting category within the Health and Social Care system. Producing the requested breakdown would therefore require bespoke extraction and locally agreed assumptions for:\n\ndefining nighttime hours;\n\nidentifying alcoholrelated attendances;\n\ndetermining whether no medical intervention was required; and\n\nassessing whether an attendance could have been treated in an alternative setting by first aid.\n\nAs such, the Department is unable to provide:\n\nthe number of alcoholsrelated ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025 in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust or the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust;\n\nthe breakdown of those attendances by triage category 4 or 5; or\n\nthe further breakdown by whether no medical intervention was required or whether the attendance could have been managed by first aid in an alternative setting.\n\nFor the same reasons, the associated costs of such attendances cannot be calculated, as the underlying activity data required to identify and cost alcoholrelated ED attendances is not available.\n\nMy Department is also unable to provide the total number of all ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025, by triage category 4 and 5, broken down by whether no medical intervention was required or whether an alternative firstaid setting would have been appropriate, as these classifications are not routinely captured within ED datasets.\n\nIt should be noted that the main health services available late at night, during hours that could be considered part of the nighttime economy, are EDs and GP OutofHours services.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts do not routinely collect or report a standard data item that identifies Emergency Department (ED) attendances as alcoholrelated. Where alcohol consumption may be a contributing factor, ED attendances are recorded and coded according to the primary clinical reason for presentation (for example, a fall or injury), rather than alcohol use itself. As a result, alcoholrelated attendances cannot be reliably identified from routinely collected ED data.
In addition, “nighttime economy hours” is not a nationally defined reporting category within the Health and Social Care system. Producing the requested breakdown would therefore require bespoke extraction and locally agreed assumptions for:
defining nighttime hours;
identifying alcoholrelated attendances;
determining whether no medical intervention was required; and
assessing whether an attendance could have been treated in an alternative setting by first aid.
As such, the Department is unable to provide:
the number of alcoholsrelated ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025 in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust or the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust;
the breakdown of those attendances by triage category 4 or 5; or
the further breakdown by whether no medical intervention was required or whether the attendance could have been managed by first aid in an alternative setting.
For the same reasons, the associated costs of such attendances cannot be calculated, as the underlying activity data required to identify and cost alcoholrelated ED attendances is not available.
My Department is also unable to provide the total number of all ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025, by triage category 4 and 5, broken down by whether no medical intervention was required or whether an alternative firstaid setting would have been appropriate, as these classifications are not routinely captured within ED datasets.
It should be noted that the main health services available late at night, during hours that could be considered part of the nighttime economy, are EDs and GP OutofHours services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043929%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480011","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480011"}},{"id":"480010","reference":"AQW 43928/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-15","answerBy":"2026-04-30","answered":"2026-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of alcohol-related Emergency Departments attendances during night-time economy hours, in 2025 in the (i) Belfast Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, triaged as category (a) 4; and (b) 5, broken down by whether (i) no medical intervention was required; and (ii) the attendance could have been treated in an alternative setting by first aid.","answerText":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts do not routinely collect or report a standard data item that identifies Emergency Department (ED) attendances as alcoholrelated. Where alcohol consumption may be a contributing factor, ED attendances are recorded and coded according to the primary clinical reason for presentation (for example, a fall or injury), rather than alcohol use itself. As a result, alcoholrelated attendances cannot be reliably identified from routinely collected ED data.\n\nIn addition, “nighttime economy hours” is not a nationally defined reporting category within the Health and Social Care system. Producing the requested breakdown would therefore require bespoke extraction and locally agreed assumptions for:\n\ndefining nighttime hours;\n\nidentifying alcoholrelated attendances;\n\ndetermining whether no medical intervention was required; and\n\nassessing whether an attendance could have been treated in an alternative setting by first aid.\n\nAs such, the Department is unable to provide:\n\nthe number of alcoholsrelated ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025 in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust or the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust;\n\nthe breakdown of those attendances by triage category 4 or 5; or\n\nthe further breakdown by whether no medical intervention was required or whether the attendance could have been managed by first aid in an alternative setting.\n\nFor the same reasons, the associated costs of such attendances cannot be calculated, as the underlying activity data required to identify and cost alcoholrelated ED attendances is not available.\n\nMy Department is also unable to provide the total number of all ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025, by triage category 4 and 5, broken down by whether no medical intervention was required or whether an alternative firstaid setting would have been appropriate, as these classifications are not routinely captured within ED datasets.\n\nIt should be noted that the main health services available late at night, during hours that could be considered part of the nighttime economy, are EDs and GP OutofHours services.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts do not routinely collect or report a standard data item that identifies Emergency Department (ED) attendances as alcoholrelated. Where alcohol consumption may be a contributing factor, ED attendances are recorded and coded according to the primary clinical reason for presentation (for example, a fall or injury), rather than alcohol use itself. As a result, alcoholrelated attendances cannot be reliably identified from routinely collected ED data.
In addition, “nighttime economy hours” is not a nationally defined reporting category within the Health and Social Care system. Producing the requested breakdown would therefore require bespoke extraction and locally agreed assumptions for:
defining nighttime hours;
identifying alcoholrelated attendances;
determining whether no medical intervention was required; and
assessing whether an attendance could have been treated in an alternative setting by first aid.
As such, the Department is unable to provide:
the number of alcoholsrelated ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025 in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust or the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust;
the breakdown of those attendances by triage category 4 or 5; or
the further breakdown by whether no medical intervention was required or whether the attendance could have been managed by first aid in an alternative setting.
For the same reasons, the associated costs of such attendances cannot be calculated, as the underlying activity data required to identify and cost alcoholrelated ED attendances is not available.
My Department is also unable to provide the total number of all ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025, by triage category 4 and 5, broken down by whether no medical intervention was required or whether an alternative firstaid setting would have been appropriate, as these classifications are not routinely captured within ED datasets.
It should be noted that the main health services available late at night, during hours that could be considered part of the nighttime economy, are EDs and GP OutofHours services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043928%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480010","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480010"}},{"id":"480009","reference":"AQW 43927/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-15","answerBy":"2026-04-30","answered":"2026-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the cost of alcohol-related Emergency Departments attendances during night-time economy hours, in 2025 in the (i) Belfast Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, triaged as category (a) 4; and (b) 5, broken down by whether (i) no medical intervention was required; and (ii) the attendance could have been treated in an alternative setting by first aid.","answerText":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts do not routinely collect or report a standard data item that identifies Emergency Department (ED) attendances as alcoholrelated. Where alcohol consumption may be a contributing factor, ED attendances are recorded and coded according to the primary clinical reason for presentation (for example, a fall or injury), rather than alcohol use itself. As a result, alcoholrelated attendances cannot be reliably identified from routinely collected ED data.\n\nIn addition, “nighttime economy hours” is not a nationally defined reporting category within the Health and Social Care system. Producing the requested breakdown would therefore require bespoke extraction and locally agreed assumptions for:\n\ndefining nighttime hours;\n\nidentifying alcoholrelated attendances;\n\ndetermining whether no medical intervention was required; and\n\nassessing whether an attendance could have been treated in an alternative setting by first aid.\n\nAs such, the Department is unable to provide:\n\nthe number of alcoholsrelated ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025 in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust or the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust;\n\nthe breakdown of those attendances by triage category 4 or 5; or\n\nthe further breakdown by whether no medical intervention was required or whether the attendance could have been managed by first aid in an alternative setting.\n\nFor the same reasons, the associated costs of such attendances cannot be calculated, as the underlying activity data required to identify and cost alcoholrelated ED attendances is not available.\n\nMy Department is also unable to provide the total number of all ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025, by triage category 4 and 5, broken down by whether no medical intervention was required or whether an alternative firstaid setting would have been appropriate, as these classifications are not routinely captured within ED datasets.\n\nIt should be noted that the main health services available late at night, during hours that could be considered part of the nighttime economy, are EDs and GP OutofHours services.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts do not routinely collect or report a standard data item that identifies Emergency Department (ED) attendances as alcoholrelated. Where alcohol consumption may be a contributing factor, ED attendances are recorded and coded according to the primary clinical reason for presentation (for example, a fall or injury), rather than alcohol use itself. As a result, alcoholrelated attendances cannot be reliably identified from routinely collected ED data.
In addition, “nighttime economy hours” is not a nationally defined reporting category within the Health and Social Care system. Producing the requested breakdown would therefore require bespoke extraction and locally agreed assumptions for:
defining nighttime hours;
identifying alcoholrelated attendances;
determining whether no medical intervention was required; and
assessing whether an attendance could have been treated in an alternative setting by first aid.
As such, the Department is unable to provide:
the number of alcoholsrelated ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025 in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust or the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust;
the breakdown of those attendances by triage category 4 or 5; or
the further breakdown by whether no medical intervention was required or whether the attendance could have been managed by first aid in an alternative setting.
For the same reasons, the associated costs of such attendances cannot be calculated, as the underlying activity data required to identify and cost alcoholrelated ED attendances is not available.
My Department is also unable to provide the total number of all ED attendances during nighttime economy hours in 2025, by triage category 4 and 5, broken down by whether no medical intervention was required or whether an alternative firstaid setting would have been appropriate, as these classifications are not routinely captured within ED datasets.
It should be noted that the main health services available late at night, during hours that could be considered part of the nighttime economy, are EDs and GP OutofHours services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043927%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480009","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480009"}},{"id":"480008","reference":"AQW 43926/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-15","answerBy":"2026-04-30","answered":"2026-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of ambulances that were called to Belfast city centre in 2025 for (i) alcohol-related incidents; and (ii) incidents requiring first aid, were no one was taken onwards to hospital.","answerText":"My officials have advised that the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) does not routinely collect or report information on the number of ambulance callouts that are classified as alcoholrelated incidents.\n\nWhere alcohol consumption may be a contributing factor, NIAS calls are recorded and coded according to the primary clinical reason for presentation, for example a fall, assault, or other injury, rather than being identified as alcoholrelated. As a result, NIAS is unable to provide figures for ambulance callouts to Belfast city centre in 2025 specifically for alcoholrelated incidents.\n\nIn relation to incidents requiring first aid only, where no patient was conveyed onwards to hospital, NIAS records these outcomes as ‘See and Treat’ incidents. Table 1 sets out the number of patients attended by NIAS in the Belfast city centre area, defined as postcode areas BT1 and BT2, during the period 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025, where treatment was provided at the scene and no onward transportation to hospital was required. These figures relate to all call types and are not limited to alcoholrelated incidents.\n\nTable 1 – See and Treat figures for BT1 and BT2 areas (2025)\n\nMonth\tCount of See & Treat\nJan 2025\t80\nFeb 2025\t85\nMar 2025\t104\nApr 2025\t95\nMay 2025\t102\nJun 2025\t119\nJul 2025\t106\nAug 2025\t123\nSep 2025\t108\nOct 2025\t112\nNov 2025\t117\nDec 2025\t111\nTotal\t1,262","answerHtml":"My officials have advised that the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) does not routinely collect or report information on the number of ambulance callouts that are classified as alcoholrelated incidents.
Where alcohol consumption may be a contributing factor, NIAS calls are recorded and coded according to the primary clinical reason for presentation, for example a fall, assault, or other injury, rather than being identified as alcoholrelated. As a result, NIAS is unable to provide figures for ambulance callouts to Belfast city centre in 2025 specifically for alcoholrelated incidents.
In relation to incidents requiring first aid only, where no patient was conveyed onwards to hospital, NIAS records these outcomes as ‘See and Treat’ incidents. Table 1 sets out the number of patients attended by NIAS in the Belfast city centre area, defined as postcode areas BT1 and BT2, during the period 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025, where treatment was provided at the scene and no onward transportation to hospital was required. These figures relate to all call types and are not limited to alcoholrelated incidents.
Table 1 – See and Treat figures for BT1 and BT2 areas (2025)
| Month | Count of See & Treat |
| Jan 2025 | 80 |
| Feb 2025 | 85 |
| Mar 2025 | 104 |
| Apr 2025 | 95 |
| May 2025 | 102 |
| Jun 2025 | 119 |
| Jul 2025 | 106 |
| Aug 2025 | 123 |
| Sep 2025 | 108 |
| Oct 2025 | 112 |
| Nov 2025 | 117 |
| Dec 2025 | 111 |
| Total | 1,262 |
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service has provided an estimate of the average cost of an ambulance call out to Belfast city centre during hours associated with the night-time economy of £1,435.
This estimate is based on the cost of providing an ambulance crew over a 12-hour shift and reflects direct operational costs only. It does not include costs relating to dispatch and communications, capital expenditure or the apportionment of corporate management or other service overheads.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043925%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480007","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480007"}},{"id":"479279","reference":"AQW 43659/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-13","answerBy":"2026-04-28","answered":"2026-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any (i) steps his Department is taking to identify and support terminally ill people at risk of fuel poverty, in light of research by Marie Curie indicating that around one in three people spend their final year of life in fuel poverty in Northern Ireland; and (ii) additional interventions planned over the coming months, should energy and other essential household costs continue to rise.","answerText":"My officials are currently progressing work on the development of the inaugural Warm Healthy Homes Strategy Action Plan. This will set out agreed timelines, responsibilities and delivery arrangements across Departments and relevant partners for the first phase of the Strategy.\n\nThe Strategy includes an action to explore end-of-life energy needs and challenges and provide appropriate support. In addition, the Strategy includes a commitment to identify and act on improvements to data-sharing that could help target assistance at those most in need.\n\nWe will work with delivery partners and stakeholders including Marie Curie to develop measures to gain an understanding of the impact that our actions are having as the strategy is implemented.\n\nI am firmly committed to providing practical assistance to vulnerable households struggling with the rise in home heating oil costs. I have secured Executive agreement to increase the £17.2 million allocated by the UK Government with an additional £19.2 million – more than doubling the support available to help households with home heating oil.\n\nThis means assistance to the value of £100 for oil can be offered to over 300k households across NI. This covers a range of vulnerable groups, including those with disabilities, older people and those on a low income.\n\nOn Wednesday 27 May, I launched the Warm Healthy Homes Fund public consultation, which will run for 12 weeks, closing on 19 August 2026.\n\nThis Fund will replace the current Affordable Warmth Scheme. The policy intent of the Warm Healthy Homes Fund is to provide long-term, sustainable solutions to fuel poverty by prioritising those most in need and improving the energy efficiency of low-income households’ homes. This will help to lower energy bills while also reducing carbon emissions.","answerHtml":"My officials are currently progressing work on the development of the inaugural Warm Healthy Homes Strategy Action Plan. This will set out agreed timelines, responsibilities and delivery arrangements across Departments and relevant partners for the first phase of the Strategy.
The Strategy includes an action to explore end-of-life energy needs and challenges and provide appropriate support. In addition, the Strategy includes a commitment to identify and act on improvements to data-sharing that could help target assistance at those most in need.
We will work with delivery partners and stakeholders including Marie Curie to develop measures to gain an understanding of the impact that our actions are having as the strategy is implemented.
I am firmly committed to providing practical assistance to vulnerable households struggling with the rise in home heating oil costs. I have secured Executive agreement to increase the £17.2 million allocated by the UK Government with an additional £19.2 million – more than doubling the support available to help households with home heating oil.
This means assistance to the value of £100 for oil can be offered to over 300k households across NI. This covers a range of vulnerable groups, including those with disabilities, older people and those on a low income.
On Wednesday 27 May, I launched the Warm Healthy Homes Fund public consultation, which will run for 12 weeks, closing on 19 August 2026.
This Fund will replace the current Affordable Warmth Scheme. The policy intent of the Warm Healthy Homes Fund is to provide long-term, sustainable solutions to fuel poverty by prioritising those most in need and improving the energy efficiency of low-income households’ homes. This will help to lower energy bills while also reducing carbon emissions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043659%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=479279","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=479279"}},{"id":"479278","reference":"AQW 43658/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-13","answerBy":"2026-04-28","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure that (i) emergency preparedness; and (ii) response planning, includes provision for rehabilitation needs in line with World Health Organization Resolution 76.6 on strengthening rehabilitation in health systems, adopted in May 2023.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043658%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=479278","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=479278"}},{"id":"478080","reference":"AQO 3442/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-26","answerBy":"2026-04-21","answered":"2026-04-21","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline how her Department will support the deployment of more low carbon heating technologies in the residential sector.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"My Department published the Government response to the consultation on support for low-carbon heating in residential buildings on 26 January. The responses to the consultation are being used to inform policy decisions on the design of and rules and guidance for such support. In tandem with the consultation process, officials have been working on a design plan for a new domestic energy efficiency and low-carbon heat support scheme that will replace the NI sustainable energy programme (NISEP). The design plan is nearing completion, and the intention is to publish it in the coming months. The plan includes details on eligibility, funding options and quality assurance and outlines how the scheme will be managed and operated. Through the course of this year, work will focus on developing the required business case, procurement documentation and support scheme regulations. It is anticipated that a new support scheme will be launched in the latter part of 2027."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"Thanks to the Minister for that answer. The Department's consultation on low-carbon heating support closed in January 2025, which was over 15 months ago. The response that the Minister referred to was published in January this year, and it commits not to a scheme but to further consultation. Can she explain why it will take until at least 2027 to legislate for that? Does she accept that, for families who are still relying on heating oil, the pace of progress is not good enough?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I thank the Member for his question. I reflect the fact that it is important that we get support schemes right. Working through the detail and ensuring that what is put in place both works and is value for money are really important. That is something that this place has certainly learned over recent years. I accept that there are people who would like to be in a position to transition from fossil fuels more quickly, and we need to do as much as we can to help them do that. The support scheme is one element that will help people, particularly those in lower-income households, to do that. We also need to provide information, advice and guidance to support people to transition from fossil fuels. Again, that is something that we are working on through the Department. We support lower-income households in particular. We have provided additional money to the sustainable energy programme that is provided through the Utility Regulator, and we have topped that up over the past number of years. To date, that funding has helped 2,500 low-income households across the region, and we are topping it up again this year."},{"speaker":"Mr Kelly","text":"Will the Minister provide an update on the closure of the RHI scheme?"},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"Briefly, Minister."},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I thank the Member. As he will know, the RHI (Closure of Non-Domestic Scheme) Bill passed its Further Consideration Stage just yesterday. The Department has completed consultation on the policy proposals for the closure regulations, and a report on the outcome of the consultation has been published. We are finalising the draft regulations, with the aim of commencing formal Assembly processes for the regulations immediately following the enactment of the Bill."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"We move now to topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203442%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=478080","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-04-21&docID=480112#AQO%203442/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=478080"}},{"id":"477873","reference":"AQW 43178/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-25","answerBy":"2026-04-13","answered":"2026-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has any plans to develop a strategy to improve automated external defibrillator (i) access; (ii) registration; and (iii) public awareness, as part of wider efforts to improve out of hospital cardiac arrest survival.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) is leading on the implementation of the Community Resuscitation Strategy. Improving survival from outofhospital cardiac arrest requires a coordinated, systemwide approach focused on early recognition, early CPR and early defibrillation.\n\nMy Department, NIAS and other key partners support a range of initiatives aligned to both the NIAS Corporate Plan 2024–26 and the Making Life Better framework, which emphasise prevention, early intervention, community empowerment and reducing inequalities.\n\nOngoing work includes improving access to publicly accessible AED provision through partnership with communities, councils and thirdsector organisations. This includes:\n\nImproving registration by continued promotion of The Circuit as the national platform for AED registration and engagement with AED owners to ensure devices are registered, maintained and accessible; and\n\nImproving public awareness by delivery of community CPR and AED education programmes, including the Community of Lifesavers initiative within schools and partnership working with organisations such as the British Heart Foundation to increase public confidence and willingness to act. NIAS endorses public engagement campaigns aligned with initiatives such as Restart a Heart Day.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) is leading on the implementation of the Community Resuscitation Strategy. Improving survival from outofhospital cardiac arrest requires a coordinated, systemwide approach focused on early recognition, early CPR and early defibrillation.
My Department, NIAS and other key partners support a range of initiatives aligned to both the NIAS Corporate Plan 2024–26 and the Making Life Better framework, which emphasise prevention, early intervention, community empowerment and reducing inequalities.
Ongoing work includes improving access to publicly accessible AED provision through partnership with communities, councils and thirdsector organisations. This includes:
Improving registration by continued promotion of The Circuit as the national platform for AED registration and engagement with AED owners to ensure devices are registered, maintained and accessible; and
Improving public awareness by delivery of community CPR and AED education programmes, including the Community of Lifesavers initiative within schools and partnership working with organisations such as the British Heart Foundation to increase public confidence and willingness to act. NIAS endorses public engagement campaigns aligned with initiatives such as Restart a Heart Day.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043178%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477873","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477873"}},{"id":"477872","reference":"AQW 43177/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-25","answerBy":"2026-04-13","answered":"2026-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has any plans to address the disparity in automated external defibrillator access between the most and least deprived areas.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) is leading on the implementation of the Community Resuscitation Strategy and recognise there are inequalities in survivability from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest between more and less deprived communities, and this remains an important public health concern.\n\nAddressing these disparities aligns with the Making Life Better framework, which focuses on reducing health inequalities and improving outcomes through targeted, community-based interventions.\n\nIn line with the NIAS Corporate Plan 2024–26, which prioritises equitable access to emergency care and improved outcomes across all communities, ongoing work by NIAS includes:\n\n•identifying gaps in AED coverage using data and mapping tools;\n\n•collaborating with local councils, community organisations and the voluntary sector to target areas of greatest need;\n\n•supporting community led AED schemes, particularly in rural and socioeconomically deprived areas; and\n\n•exploring evidence-based approaches to optimise AED placement and maximise impact.\n\nThrough a coordinated, partnership-based approach, NIAS and its partners are working to ensure that access to life-saving interventions is not determined by geography or deprivation.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) is leading on the implementation of the Community Resuscitation Strategy and recognise there are inequalities in survivability from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest between more and less deprived communities, and this remains an important public health concern.
Addressing these disparities aligns with the Making Life Better framework, which focuses on reducing health inequalities and improving outcomes through targeted, community-based interventions.
In line with the NIAS Corporate Plan 2024–26, which prioritises equitable access to emergency care and improved outcomes across all communities, ongoing work by NIAS includes:
•identifying gaps in AED coverage using data and mapping tools;
•collaborating with local councils, community organisations and the voluntary sector to target areas of greatest need;
•supporting community led AED schemes, particularly in rural and socioeconomically deprived areas; and
•exploring evidence-based approaches to optimise AED placement and maximise impact.
Through a coordinated, partnership-based approach, NIAS and its partners are working to ensure that access to life-saving interventions is not determined by geography or deprivation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043177%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477872","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477872"}},{"id":"477871","reference":"AQW 43176/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-25","answerBy":"2026-04-13","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to increase the registration of publicly accessible defibrillators on The Circuit, particularly in communities with low coverage.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) is leading on the implementation of the Community Resuscitation Strategy and provides a supporting role in advising organisations, businesses, and individuals regarding siting of defibrillators and best practice in the use of defibrillators.\n\nImproving the registration and visibility of publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) is essential to improving survival outcomes from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.\n\nNIAS has worked with the British Heart Foundation to develop The Circuit (www.thecircuit.uk), a national online defibrillator network linking every ambulance service in the UK. NIAS can readily provide information on AEDs registered on The Circuit to 999 callers who may require access. There are currently 4,366 publicly accessible AEDs registered on The Circuit.\n\nOngoing work to increase AED registration includes:\n\nongoing promotion of The Circuit to communities, businesses and public-sector organisations;\n\ntargeted engagement with AED guardians to improve visibility, accessibility and maintenance;\n\npartnership working across local councils, voluntary organisations and community groups; and\n\nintegration of AED data within emergency response systems to maximise utilisation\n\nThis approach prioritises prevention, early intervention and empowering communities to act during health emergencies.\n\nMy Department continues to support NIAS and its partners to increase AED registration, recognising that unregistered devices cannot be utilised effectively in timecritical situations.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) is leading on the implementation of the Community Resuscitation Strategy and provides a supporting role in advising organisations, businesses, and individuals regarding siting of defibrillators and best practice in the use of defibrillators.
Improving the registration and visibility of publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) is essential to improving survival outcomes from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
NIAS has worked with the British Heart Foundation to develop The Circuit (www.thecircuit.uk), a national online defibrillator network linking every ambulance service in the UK. NIAS can readily provide information on AEDs registered on The Circuit to 999 callers who may require access. There are currently 4,366 publicly accessible AEDs registered on The Circuit.
Ongoing work to increase AED registration includes:
ongoing promotion of The Circuit to communities, businesses and public-sector organisations;
targeted engagement with AED guardians to improve visibility, accessibility and maintenance;
partnership working across local councils, voluntary organisations and community groups; and
integration of AED data within emergency response systems to maximise utilisation
This approach prioritises prevention, early intervention and empowering communities to act during health emergencies.
My Department continues to support NIAS and its partners to increase AED registration, recognising that unregistered devices cannot be utilised effectively in timecritical situations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043176%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477871","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477871"}},{"id":"477870","reference":"AQW 43175/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-25","answerBy":"2026-04-13","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department is taking any steps to ensure that emergency (i) preparedness; and (ii) response planning, includes consideration of rehabilitation needs, in line with World Health Organization Resolution 76.6 on strengthening rehabilitation in health systems, adopted in May 2023.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043175%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477870","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477870"}},{"id":"477869","reference":"AQW 43174/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-25","answerBy":"2026-04-13","answered":"2026-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any additional staffing that would be required to operate a 24/7 thrombectomy service.","answerText":"My officials are working with the Belfast Trust to develop a business case to identify the resources required to support a 24/7 thrombectomy service. The business case will identify a preferred staffing model which will encompass a range of professions including Stroke Consultants, Nurses, Interventional and Diagnostic Radiology Consultants and Anaesthetic Consultants. It is anticipated that the business case will be finalised by the end of May 2026.\n\nWhile budgetary pressures have prevented me from allocating the additional funding needed to support a 24/7 service, I am confident on progress on a move to a 24/7 model being made soon.","answerHtml":"My officials are working with the Belfast Trust to develop a business case to identify the resources required to support a 24/7 thrombectomy service. The business case will identify a preferred staffing model which will encompass a range of professions including Stroke Consultants, Nurses, Interventional and Diagnostic Radiology Consultants and Anaesthetic Consultants. It is anticipated that the business case will be finalised by the end of May 2026.
While budgetary pressures have prevented me from allocating the additional funding needed to support a 24/7 service, I am confident on progress on a move to a 24/7 model being made soon.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043174%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477869","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477869"}},{"id":"477616","reference":"AQW 43041/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-24","answerBy":"2026-04-10","answered":"2026-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment was made of the benefits of his visit to Washington DC over the St. Patricks Day period to health service patients and staff.","answerText":"As part of the visit, I attended and participated in over 20 events, meetings and site visits across five days. This intensive programme provided a significant platform to strengthen existing relationships, establish new partnerships, and showcase Northern Ireland’s health system on an international stage.\n\nDuring the Washington leg of the visit, I engaged directly with leading global institutions, including the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda and the Children’s Hospital. These engagements were complemented by a number of high-level networking events, all which provided further opportunities to promote collaboration and highlight the strengths of our health service.\n\nThe subsequent programme in Nashville included a series of targeted engagements with healthcare leaders, academic institutions and policy-makers. These included visits and meetings with Belmont University, Meharry Medical College, Nashville Health, Vanderbilt University and Hospital, Interfaith Dental, and senior representatives from the State Departments of Health and Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. These engagements allowed for in-depth discussion on shared challenges and the exchange of innovative approaches to healthcare delivery.\n\nImportantly, the visit has already delivered measurable outcomes. My office is actively engaging with departmental officials to ensure that the insights gained are integrated into ongoing work programmes. This includes the sharing of best practice, exploration of new models of care, and the identification of areas for sustained collaboration.\n\nI am pleased to report that a number of follow-up actions are already underway. Engagement with the National Cancer Institute has been further strengthened, with collaboration now progressing in areas such as clinical trials, immunotherapy and scientific exchange. This represents a major opportunity to enhance cancer research and treatment options for patients here.\n\nSimilarly, connections have been established between colleagues in the Strategic Planning and Performance Group and the leadership at the Children’s Hospital in Washington, supporting the exchange of expertise and best practice in paediatric care.\n\nIn the area of mental health, discussions with Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services have led to ongoing collaboration, including shared learning on prison-based mental health support. This has generated strong interest and the potential for future joint initiatives.\n\nEngagement with Nashville Health has also proven particularly beneficial, with mutual learning on addressing health inequalities and the social determinants of health. Northern Ireland’s experience, including initiatives such as social supermarkets and community-based approaches, has been shared and is informing discussions in Nashville.\n\nFurther links have been established between the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland and counterparts in Nashville, supporting international learning and collaboration in this vital area of service delivery.\n\nIn addition, since returning, I have continued to build on these relationships, including hosting senior healthcare leaders from Nashville during their recent visit to Northern Ireland, further strengthening ties between our regions.","answerHtml":"As part of the visit, I attended and participated in over 20 events, meetings and site visits across five days. This intensive programme provided a significant platform to strengthen existing relationships, establish new partnerships, and showcase Northern Ireland’s health system on an international stage.
During the Washington leg of the visit, I engaged directly with leading global institutions, including the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda and the Children’s Hospital. These engagements were complemented by a number of high-level networking events, all which provided further opportunities to promote collaboration and highlight the strengths of our health service.
The subsequent programme in Nashville included a series of targeted engagements with healthcare leaders, academic institutions and policy-makers. These included visits and meetings with Belmont University, Meharry Medical College, Nashville Health, Vanderbilt University and Hospital, Interfaith Dental, and senior representatives from the State Departments of Health and Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. These engagements allowed for in-depth discussion on shared challenges and the exchange of innovative approaches to healthcare delivery.
Importantly, the visit has already delivered measurable outcomes. My office is actively engaging with departmental officials to ensure that the insights gained are integrated into ongoing work programmes. This includes the sharing of best practice, exploration of new models of care, and the identification of areas for sustained collaboration.
I am pleased to report that a number of follow-up actions are already underway. Engagement with the National Cancer Institute has been further strengthened, with collaboration now progressing in areas such as clinical trials, immunotherapy and scientific exchange. This represents a major opportunity to enhance cancer research and treatment options for patients here.
Similarly, connections have been established between colleagues in the Strategic Planning and Performance Group and the leadership at the Children’s Hospital in Washington, supporting the exchange of expertise and best practice in paediatric care.
In the area of mental health, discussions with Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services have led to ongoing collaboration, including shared learning on prison-based mental health support. This has generated strong interest and the potential for future joint initiatives.
Engagement with Nashville Health has also proven particularly beneficial, with mutual learning on addressing health inequalities and the social determinants of health. Northern Ireland’s experience, including initiatives such as social supermarkets and community-based approaches, has been shared and is informing discussions in Nashville.
Further links have been established between the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland and counterparts in Nashville, supporting international learning and collaboration in this vital area of service delivery.
In addition, since returning, I have continued to build on these relationships, including hosting senior healthcare leaders from Nashville during their recent visit to Northern Ireland, further strengthening ties between our regions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043041%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477616","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477616"}},{"id":"477615","reference":"AQW 43040/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-24","answerBy":"2026-04-10","answered":"2026-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the itinerary of his visit to Washington DC over the St. Patricks Day period.","answerText":"The table below details the itinerary of my visit to Washington DC over the St. Patrick’s Day period.\n\nDATE\tEVENT\nSUNDAY 15 MARCH\tIrish Ambassador’s Reception\nQUB Dinner\nThe Hamilton\nMONDAY 16 MARCH 2026\tWIP Breakfast\nUniversity of Notre Dame\nWashington\nCancer Institute\nBethesda, Washington\nMeeting US Consul General\nIreland Funds Gala Dinner\nThe National Building Museum\nTUESDAY 17 MARCH 2026\tNI Bureau Breakfast\nUnion Station\nSpeakers Lunch\nUnited States Capitol\nWhite House Reception\nWEDNESDAY 18 MARCH 2026\tBritish Ambassador’s Breakfast\nBritish Ambassador’s Residence\nVisit to National Children’s Hospital","answerHtml":"The table below details the itinerary of my visit to Washington DC over the St. Patrick’s Day period.
| DATE | EVENT |
| SUNDAY 15 MARCH | Irish Ambassador’s Reception QUB Dinner The Hamilton |
| MONDAY 16 MARCH 2026 | WIP Breakfast University of Notre Dame Washington Cancer Institute Bethesda, Washington Meeting US Consul General Ireland Funds Gala Dinner The National Building Museum |
| TUESDAY 17 MARCH 2026 | NI Bureau Breakfast Union Station Speakers Lunch United States Capitol White House Reception |
| WEDNESDAY 18 MARCH 2026 | British Ambassador’s Breakfast British Ambassador’s Residence Visit to National Children’s Hospital |
My visit to the United States (16–21 March) was an official visit focused on strengthening transatlantic cooperation and exploring innovative approaches to improving health and social care in Northern Ireland.
Full details of the visit can be found here
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042648%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476629","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476629"}},{"id":"476211","reference":"AQW 42474/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-13","answerBy":"2026-03-31","answered":"2026-04-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for a breakdown of the £1.839 million annual funding allocated to the Regional Insulin Pump Service, including the amount directed to (i) the regional multidisciplinary team; (b) Belfast Health and Social Care Trust as the lead provider; and (iii) each of the other Health and Social Care Trusts for local delivery and support.","answerText":"The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence TA943 Hybrid closed loop systems for managing blood glucose levels in type 1 diabetes has been endorsed as applicable to Northern Ireland.\n\nFunding has been secured to support the implementation of a 5-year implementation plan through a service development of the Regional Insulin Pump service. This will support equitable, sustainable and affordable access to this technology, which is targeted to optimise outcomes for those groups most likely to benefit.\n\nOnce the commissioning process has been completed, further information, including a breakdown of the funding, will be available. However, the most appropriate system for each individual is the responsibility of the local Trust and their clinicians to determine in consultation with the patient and/or the patient’s carer.","answerHtml":"The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence TA943 Hybrid closed loop systems for managing blood glucose levels in type 1 diabetes has been endorsed as applicable to Northern Ireland.
Funding has been secured to support the implementation of a 5-year implementation plan through a service development of the Regional Insulin Pump service. This will support equitable, sustainable and affordable access to this technology, which is targeted to optimise outcomes for those groups most likely to benefit.
Once the commissioning process has been completed, further information, including a breakdown of the funding, will be available. However, the most appropriate system for each individual is the responsibility of the local Trust and their clinicians to determine in consultation with the patient and/or the patient’s carer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042474%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476211","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476211"}},{"id":"476210","reference":"AQW 42473/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-13","answerBy":"2026-03-31","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) a timeline for the publication and rollout of the type 1 diabetes hybrid closed loop technology implementation plan; and (ii) whether this will ensure equitable access to this new technology for patients across Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Following the endorsement of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence TA943 as applicable to Northern Ireland, work has been completed in terms of overall provision; priority groups; system costs; workforce and communication requirements to both enable and support. Funding is required for devices, in addition to upskilling and recruiting the workforce needed to offer Hybrid Closed Loop safely, effectively and equitably across the region.\n\nI have supported the establishment of a clinical working group to work with relevant stakeholders across Health and Social Care to develop an implementation plan. Similar to other nations, a phased 5-year implementation plan is in the final stages of development, in response to the guidance, owing to the scale and scope of this recommendation. Funding has been secured to support the implementation of this plan through the Regional Insulin Pump service. This will support equitable, sustainable and affordable access to this technology, which is targeted to optimise outcomes for those groups most likely to benefit. However, the most appropriate system for each individual is the responsibility of the Trust and their clinicians to determine in consultation with the patient and/or the patient’s carer.","answerHtml":"Following the endorsement of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence TA943 as applicable to Northern Ireland, work has been completed in terms of overall provision; priority groups; system costs; workforce and communication requirements to both enable and support. Funding is required for devices, in addition to upskilling and recruiting the workforce needed to offer Hybrid Closed Loop safely, effectively and equitably across the region.
I have supported the establishment of a clinical working group to work with relevant stakeholders across Health and Social Care to develop an implementation plan. Similar to other nations, a phased 5-year implementation plan is in the final stages of development, in response to the guidance, owing to the scale and scope of this recommendation. Funding has been secured to support the implementation of this plan through the Regional Insulin Pump service. This will support equitable, sustainable and affordable access to this technology, which is targeted to optimise outcomes for those groups most likely to benefit. However, the most appropriate system for each individual is the responsibility of the Trust and their clinicians to determine in consultation with the patient and/or the patient’s carer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042473%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476210","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476210"}},{"id":"474473","reference":"AQW 41814/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-04","answerBy":"2026-03-20","answered":"2026-04-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the amount spent on the provision of social care for older people, in each of the last five years, broken down by (i) Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) the element of care provided, including care package, nursing home placement, residential home placement or other.","answerText":"Table 1 below presents the total cost of personal social services for the Elderly Programme of Care broken down by HSC Trust for the last five years:\n\nTrust\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\t2024/25\n£’m\t£’m\t£’m\t£’m\t£’m\nBelfast HSCT\t164.1\t169.2\t192.0\t218.7\t233.8\nNorthern HSCT\t197.3\t203.4\t221.1\t252.1\t275.1\nSouth Eastern HSCT\t143.9\t148.4\t176.9\t199.9\t219.2\nSouthern HSCT\t138.5\t142.8\t154.6\t179.8\t183.8\nWestern HSCT\t122.3\t126.1\t135.4\t147.9\t159.3\nGrand Total\t766.1\t789.9\t880.0\t998.5\t1,071.3\n\nTable 1: Costs of Elderly Personal Social Services by Trust 2020/21 – 2024/25\n\nTable 2 below presents the total cost of personal social services for the Elderly Programme of Care broken down by Nursing Homes, Residential Homes, Homecare Packages and Other, for the last five years:\n\nCategory\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\t2024/25\n£’m\t£’m\t£’m\t£’m\t£’m\nHome Care\t230.0\t237.2\t290.5\t313.8\t335.1\nNursing Home Packages\t277.4\t286.0\t290.8\t359.3\t410.0\nOther Personal Social Services\t155.9\t160.8\t197.3\t197.9\t188.3\nResidential Care Packages\t102.8\t106.0\t101.4\t127.6\t138.0\nGrand Total\t766.1\t789.9\t880.0\t998.5\t1,071.3\n\nTable 2: Costs of Elderly Personal Social Services by Service 2020/21 – 2024/25\n\nNote: figures may not add due to rounding","answerHtml":"Table 1 below presents the total cost of personal social services for the Elderly Programme of Care broken down by HSC Trust for the last five years:
| Trust | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 |
| £’m | £’m | £’m | £’m | £’m | |
| Belfast HSCT | 164.1 | 169.2 | 192.0 | 218.7 | 233.8 |
| Northern HSCT | 197.3 | 203.4 | 221.1 | 252.1 | 275.1 |
| South Eastern HSCT | 143.9 | 148.4 | 176.9 | 199.9 | 219.2 |
| Southern HSCT | 138.5 | 142.8 | 154.6 | 179.8 | 183.8 |
| Western HSCT | 122.3 | 126.1 | 135.4 | 147.9 | 159.3 |
| Grand Total | 766.1 | 789.9 | 880.0 | 998.5 | 1,071.3 |
Table 1: Costs of Elderly Personal Social Services by Trust 2020/21 – 2024/25
Table 2 below presents the total cost of personal social services for the Elderly Programme of Care broken down by Nursing Homes, Residential Homes, Homecare Packages and Other, for the last five years:
| Category | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 |
| £’m | £’m | £’m | £’m | £’m | |
| Home Care | 230.0 | 237.2 | 290.5 | 313.8 | 335.1 |
| Nursing Home Packages | 277.4 | 286.0 | 290.8 | 359.3 | 410.0 |
| Other Personal Social Services | 155.9 | 160.8 | 197.3 | 197.9 | 188.3 |
| Residential Care Packages | 102.8 | 106.0 | 101.4 | 127.6 | 138.0 |
| Grand Total | 766.1 | 789.9 | 880.0 | 998.5 | 1,071.3 |
Table 2: Costs of Elderly Personal Social Services by Service 2020/21 – 2024/25
Note: figures may not add due to rounding
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041814%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=474473","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=474473"}},{"id":"474472","reference":"AQW 41813/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-04","answerBy":"2026-03-20","answered":"2026-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the amount paid to nursing home operators in top-up fees, in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The following table sets out the values due to nursing home operators in respect of top-up fees in each of the last five years, as advised by Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nTrust\t2021/22\n£000’s\t2022/23\n£000’s\t2023/24\n£000’s\t2024/25\n£000’s\t2025/26\n(Apr 25-Feb 26)\n£000’s\nBHSCT\t1,109\t1,494\t2,083\t2,992\t3,836\nNHSCT\t1,378\t2,155\t4,339\t5,348\t5,953\nSEHSCT\t910\t1,292\t1,744\t2,749\t4,056\nSHSCT\t255\t315\t506\t698\t894\nWHSCT*\t1,589\t1,759\t2,046\t2,758\t3,056\n\nNotes to the table:\n\nAll amounts paid have been rounded to the nearest thousand pounds.\n\nThe figures for all Trusts for 2025/26 are 11 months only, as based on payments from April 2025 to February 2026.\n\nHSC Trusts can only report on top up payments which are recorded on Trust systems, which include those paid through the Trust. Any private arrangements made between the provider and third parties paid directly to the nursing home operator will not normally be recorded in Trust payment systems.\n\n*Prior to April 2024 WHSCT did not record top-up fees separately within their financial system and, as such, have provided only estimated figures for the financial years 2021/22 – 2023/24.\n\nThe values provided by Trusts are distinguished as far as possible by those relating to nursing care placements only and are not intended to include any values in respect of residential care.\n\nThe values include where there is a third party contribution arrangement in place to pay the top up charge and where the Trust is incurring the cost of any top up charge.","answerHtml":"The following table sets out the values due to nursing home operators in respect of top-up fees in each of the last five years, as advised by Health and Social Care Trusts.
| Trust | 2021/22 £000’s | 2022/23 £000’s | 2023/24 £000’s | 2024/25 £000’s | 2025/26 (Apr 25-Feb 26) £000’s |
| BHSCT | 1,109 | 1,494 | 2,083 | 2,992 | 3,836 |
| NHSCT | 1,378 | 2,155 | 4,339 | 5,348 | 5,953 |
| SEHSCT | 910 | 1,292 | 1,744 | 2,749 | 4,056 |
| SHSCT | 255 | 315 | 506 | 698 | 894 |
| WHSCT* | 1,589 | 1,759 | 2,046 | 2,758 | 3,056 |
Notes to the table:
All amounts paid have been rounded to the nearest thousand pounds.
The figures for all Trusts for 2025/26 are 11 months only, as based on payments from April 2025 to February 2026.
HSC Trusts can only report on top up payments which are recorded on Trust systems, which include those paid through the Trust. Any private arrangements made between the provider and third parties paid directly to the nursing home operator will not normally be recorded in Trust payment systems.
*Prior to April 2024 WHSCT did not record top-up fees separately within their financial system and, as such, have provided only estimated figures for the financial years 2021/22 – 2023/24.
The values provided by Trusts are distinguished as far as possible by those relating to nursing care placements only and are not intended to include any values in respect of residential care.
The values include where there is a third party contribution arrangement in place to pay the top up charge and where the Trust is incurring the cost of any top up charge.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041813%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=474472","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=474472"}},{"id":"474471","reference":"AQW 41812/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-04","answerBy":"2026-03-20","answered":"2026-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has modelled the projected need of social care provision for the next 20 years.","answerText":"Northern Ireland’s social care system is experiencing increasing pressure due to demographic change, workforce shortages, and rising complexity of need. The proportion of the population aged 65+ is projected to continue rising significantly over the next two decades, with a particularly sharp increase expected among those aged 85+, who are the highest users of social care. My Department’s previous and current strategic reports have highlighted the need for longterm planning and modelling to ensure future sustainability.\n\nMy Department, through the Social Care Collaborative Forum established in 2023 has already implemented Early Review Teams and Care Line Live to create efficiencies in homecare provision. Further work has commenced under the Sustainable Systems Implementation Group to consider a new model of homecare that is fit for the future.\n\nMy Department established a Social Care Fair Work Forum in 2023 and I have given a commitment to making social care a real living wage sector.\n\nMy Department completed a consultation on Adult Social Care Reform in 2024 which gathered public, provider, and sector feedback and has supported the case for a system-wide overhaul of social care services.\n\nThe Social Care Workforce Strategy 2025–2035 sets out a vision and actions to develop a sustainable social care workforce over the next ten years.\n\nMy Department has also been planning for the increase in demand for social care by considering investment in preventative care and early intervention, expansion of communitybased and agefriendly services, robust workforce planning and retention strategies, support for carers and digital innovation. The Department’s HSC Reset Plan, published on 9 July 2025, sets the immediate direction for stabilising and reforming the Health and Social Care (HSC) system. It outlines the initial threeyear strategy of Stabilisation, Reform and Delivery, with significant implications for adult social care.\n\nThe Reset Plan commits to building a neighbourhoodcentred model of social care, embedding early intervention through integrated Neighbourhood Teams delivering services closer to home. The Plan emphasises enhanced use of digital tools and data, supporting better management of home care packages, improved scheduling, and more efficient deployment of staff. This aligns with digitalisation already underway across Trusts. The Plan outlines the need for a wholesystem, crossgovernment approach connecting health, housing, education and employment.\n\nAdult social care reform is ongoing, phased, and constrained by budget pressures, but the work I have referenced; SCCF, Fair Work Forum, Reset Plan, are now in place to progress delivery. Full system-wide reform will take time but early progress is happening.\n\nSocial care already represents a substantial portion of Health and Social Care (HSC) expenditure. Any modelling will assess workforce requirements over the next 20 years, including projected gaps, training needs, and potential cost pressures. Our longterm modelling will help quantify future costs and inform budget planning, reform proposals, and investment decisions.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland’s social care system is experiencing increasing pressure due to demographic change, workforce shortages, and rising complexity of need. The proportion of the population aged 65+ is projected to continue rising significantly over the next two decades, with a particularly sharp increase expected among those aged 85+, who are the highest users of social care. My Department’s previous and current strategic reports have highlighted the need for longterm planning and modelling to ensure future sustainability.
My Department, through the Social Care Collaborative Forum established in 2023 has already implemented Early Review Teams and Care Line Live to create efficiencies in homecare provision. Further work has commenced under the Sustainable Systems Implementation Group to consider a new model of homecare that is fit for the future.
My Department established a Social Care Fair Work Forum in 2023 and I have given a commitment to making social care a real living wage sector.
My Department completed a consultation on Adult Social Care Reform in 2024 which gathered public, provider, and sector feedback and has supported the case for a system-wide overhaul of social care services.
The Social Care Workforce Strategy 2025–2035 sets out a vision and actions to develop a sustainable social care workforce over the next ten years.
My Department has also been planning for the increase in demand for social care by considering investment in preventative care and early intervention, expansion of communitybased and agefriendly services, robust workforce planning and retention strategies, support for carers and digital innovation. The Department’s HSC Reset Plan, published on 9 July 2025, sets the immediate direction for stabilising and reforming the Health and Social Care (HSC) system. It outlines the initial threeyear strategy of Stabilisation, Reform and Delivery, with significant implications for adult social care.
The Reset Plan commits to building a neighbourhoodcentred model of social care, embedding early intervention through integrated Neighbourhood Teams delivering services closer to home. The Plan emphasises enhanced use of digital tools and data, supporting better management of home care packages, improved scheduling, and more efficient deployment of staff. This aligns with digitalisation already underway across Trusts. The Plan outlines the need for a wholesystem, crossgovernment approach connecting health, housing, education and employment.
Adult social care reform is ongoing, phased, and constrained by budget pressures, but the work I have referenced; SCCF, Fair Work Forum, Reset Plan, are now in place to progress delivery. Full system-wide reform will take time but early progress is happening.
Social care already represents a substantial portion of Health and Social Care (HSC) expenditure. Any modelling will assess workforce requirements over the next 20 years, including projected gaps, training needs, and potential cost pressures. Our longterm modelling will help quantify future costs and inform budget planning, reform proposals, and investment decisions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041812%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=474471","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=474471"}},{"id":"471529","reference":"AQW 40646/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-16","answerBy":"2026-02-19","answered":"2026-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the reason why the Overarching Winter Preparedness Plan 2025-26 has not resulted in meeting the two hour target on ambulance handovers.","answerText":"I set out in the published Winter Preparedness Plan, a target to improve ambulance handover and turnaround times and that this requires a collaborative approach between the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and HSC Trusts. I welcome their ongoing partnership working and the development of a regional Ambulance Handover Protocol and reduced ambulance conveyances through increased use of alternative pathways.\n\nThe expectation was that waits exceeding two hours should be eradicated by December 2025, and I can confirm that the regional average handover time for January 2026 was 1 hour 58 minutes. However, this improvement needs to be sustained and consistent. I have been clear that while winter preparedness can mitigate winter pressures, it cannot prevent them and the interplay of demand, capacity and flow are symptoms of whole system dynamics.","answerHtml":"I set out in the published Winter Preparedness Plan, a target to improve ambulance handover and turnaround times and that this requires a collaborative approach between the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and HSC Trusts. I welcome their ongoing partnership working and the development of a regional Ambulance Handover Protocol and reduced ambulance conveyances through increased use of alternative pathways.
The expectation was that waits exceeding two hours should be eradicated by December 2025, and I can confirm that the regional average handover time for January 2026 was 1 hour 58 minutes. However, this improvement needs to be sustained and consistent. I have been clear that while winter preparedness can mitigate winter pressures, it cannot prevent them and the interplay of demand, capacity and flow are symptoms of whole system dynamics.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040646%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471529","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471529"}},{"id":"471528","reference":"AQW 40645/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-16","answerBy":"2026-03-03","answered":"2026-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for their assessment of comments, made by the Chief Medical Officer for Northern Ireland at the 29 January 2026 meeting of the Committee for Health, that the evidence in support of the benefits of the introduction of a Minimum Unit Price for alcohol is irrefutable.","answerText":"We have noted the comments made by the Chief Medical Officer, which will inform further consideration of this issue.","answerHtml":"We have noted the comments made by the Chief Medical Officer, which will inform further consideration of this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040645%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471528","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471528"}},{"id":"470023","reference":"AQW 39978/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-06","answerBy":"2026-02-23","answered":"2026-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the impact that the £2.1 million reduction in expenditure in health service dentistry, cited as a part of savings and cost containment measures will have for NHS dentistry services.","answerText":"The number of registered dental patients in Northern Ireland continues to reduce and as reported in the Quarterly Family Practitioner Services (FPS) General Dental Statistics for Northern Ireland QE December 2025, published on 29 January 2026, registrations have decreased by a further 17.1% in the last year.\n\nThis reduction has led to a reduction in the costs of registration fees paid to Dentists and in turn a reduction in the cost of treatments paid during the 2025/26 financial year and the realisation of savings of £2.1m.","answerHtml":"The number of registered dental patients in Northern Ireland continues to reduce and as reported in the Quarterly Family Practitioner Services (FPS) General Dental Statistics for Northern Ireland QE December 2025, published on 29 January 2026, registrations have decreased by a further 17.1% in the last year.
This reduction has led to a reduction in the costs of registration fees paid to Dentists and in turn a reduction in the cost of treatments paid during the 2025/26 financial year and the realisation of savings of £2.1m.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039978%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470023","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470023"}},{"id":"469771","reference":"AQO 3107/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-05","answerBy":"2026-02-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the new Good Relations Strategic Framework and its associated consultation process.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203107%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469771","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469771"}},{"id":"469574","reference":"AQW 39767/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-04","answerBy":"2026-02-10","answered":"2026-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any action his Department is taking to strengthen medicine supply to Northern Ireland and prevent shortages, ahead of the expected reduced availability of certain medications.","answerText":"There are over 14,000 medicines licensed in the UK, and the majority are in good supply and are available in sufficient quantities to meet patient needs. However, medicines are manufactured as part of a highly regulated, complex and global industry; therefore, medicine supply disruptions are not uncommon and can occur for a variety of reasons such as manufacturing issues or increases in demand.\n\nThe Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) leads on the maintenance of medicine supply chains to the UK and works closely with the devolved administrations, including my Department, the UK medicines regulator and other operators within the supply chain. Through national and local medicine shortage management groups, my Department is updated on any anticipated upcoming supply disruptions.\n\nIf there is a medicine supply disruption, there are well established tools and processes that can be applied both locally and nationally to ensure patients can have access to the treatments they need. This includes providing healthcare professionals with advice and guidance on the actions they can take to ensure patients can access appropriate treatments. These communications include National Patient Safety Alerts, Medicine Supply Notifications and recommending healthcare professionals registering with the NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service (SPS) medicines supply tool. The SPS medicines supply tool provides up-to-date information on anticipated resupply dates, appropriate alternatives, clinical information and recommended actions to take based on the above advice.\n\nMedicines can also be placed on a list of medicines that cannot be exported from the UK or hoarded. This ensures all medicines within the UK can be made available to patients. Other tools and processes that can be utilised include the importation of medicines from other markets and Serious Shortage Protocols. All these actions have been considered and applied where appropriate to any anticipated upcoming supply disruption.\n\nWhile there are well established tools and processes that can be applied, I recognise the impact these supply disruptions can have on patients and on Health and Social Care providers in Northern Ireland. Consequently, I had previously written to Wes Streeting MP, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, and Karin Smyth MP, Minister of Health (Secondary Care), highlighting my support for wider collaboration to improve long-term supply resilience across the UK.\n\nDHSC published a document in August 2025, entitled ‘Managing a robust and resilient supply of medicines’ which aims to reduce the frequency of shortages and minimise the impact on patients when they do occur. The document provides examples of collaboration between my Department, the UK Government and others to resolve some recent complex medicine supply disruptions. I welcome the aims of this publication and my Department is committed to working with our partners across the UK to find strategies to improve the security and supply of medicines to the UK.\n\nAdditionally, there are commitments within the document to provide the public with more information on medicine shortages. My Department has recently published information for the public on steps they can take if they are experiencing medicine supply disruptions. This information can be found via https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/medicine-shortages.\n\nFinally, my Department has worked with DHSC to develop proposals for amendments to the Human Medicines Regulations 2012 to enable greater flexibilities for pharmacists when dispensing medicines, with a 12-week public consultation period closing on 11th December 2025. These proposals aim to improve patient access to medicines, reduce the burden on healthcare systems and improve person-centred care. While this measure is not expected to resolve all the issues surrounding medicine supply difficulties, it is anticipated that the proposals could provide another tool for pharmacists to improve patient access to their medicines. My Department will work with DHSC to carefully consider next steps.","answerHtml":"There are over 14,000 medicines licensed in the UK, and the majority are in good supply and are available in sufficient quantities to meet patient needs. However, medicines are manufactured as part of a highly regulated, complex and global industry; therefore, medicine supply disruptions are not uncommon and can occur for a variety of reasons such as manufacturing issues or increases in demand.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) leads on the maintenance of medicine supply chains to the UK and works closely with the devolved administrations, including my Department, the UK medicines regulator and other operators within the supply chain. Through national and local medicine shortage management groups, my Department is updated on any anticipated upcoming supply disruptions.
If there is a medicine supply disruption, there are well established tools and processes that can be applied both locally and nationally to ensure patients can have access to the treatments they need. This includes providing healthcare professionals with advice and guidance on the actions they can take to ensure patients can access appropriate treatments. These communications include National Patient Safety Alerts, Medicine Supply Notifications and recommending healthcare professionals registering with the NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service (SPS) medicines supply tool. The SPS medicines supply tool provides up-to-date information on anticipated resupply dates, appropriate alternatives, clinical information and recommended actions to take based on the above advice.
Medicines can also be placed on a list of medicines that cannot be exported from the UK or hoarded. This ensures all medicines within the UK can be made available to patients. Other tools and processes that can be utilised include the importation of medicines from other markets and Serious Shortage Protocols. All these actions have been considered and applied where appropriate to any anticipated upcoming supply disruption.
While there are well established tools and processes that can be applied, I recognise the impact these supply disruptions can have on patients and on Health and Social Care providers in Northern Ireland. Consequently, I had previously written to Wes Streeting MP, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, and Karin Smyth MP, Minister of Health (Secondary Care), highlighting my support for wider collaboration to improve long-term supply resilience across the UK.
DHSC published a document in August 2025, entitled ‘Managing a robust and resilient supply of medicines’ which aims to reduce the frequency of shortages and minimise the impact on patients when they do occur. The document provides examples of collaboration between my Department, the UK Government and others to resolve some recent complex medicine supply disruptions. I welcome the aims of this publication and my Department is committed to working with our partners across the UK to find strategies to improve the security and supply of medicines to the UK.
Additionally, there are commitments within the document to provide the public with more information on medicine shortages. My Department has recently published information for the public on steps they can take if they are experiencing medicine supply disruptions. This information can be found via https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/medicine-shortages.
Finally, my Department has worked with DHSC to develop proposals for amendments to the Human Medicines Regulations 2012 to enable greater flexibilities for pharmacists when dispensing medicines, with a 12-week public consultation period closing on 11th December 2025. These proposals aim to improve patient access to medicines, reduce the burden on healthcare systems and improve person-centred care. While this measure is not expected to resolve all the issues surrounding medicine supply difficulties, it is anticipated that the proposals could provide another tool for pharmacists to improve patient access to their medicines. My Department will work with DHSC to carefully consider next steps.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039767%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469574","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469574"}},{"id":"468425","reference":"AQW 39256/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-28","answerBy":"2026-02-12","answered":"2026-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the amount of the £357.2 million funding that Northern Ireland received between 2022-2023 and 2025-2026, in relation to Business Rates Support made available to businesses, was used to provide additional targeted support to the Northern Ireland business community.","answerText":"Barnett funding is unhypothecated and decisions around the allocation of “Barnett consequentials” received is taken by the Executive collectively based on its priorities.\n\nThe Executive currently provides a quarter of a billion pounds in rate support every year to non-domestic ratepayers.","answerHtml":"Barnett funding is unhypothecated and decisions around the allocation of “Barnett consequentials” received is taken by the Executive collectively based on its priorities.
The Executive currently provides a quarter of a billion pounds in rate support every year to non-domestic ratepayers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039256%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468425","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468425"}},{"id":"468424","reference":"AQW 39255/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-28","answerBy":"2026-02-12","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, in light of the announcement in relation to additional support for pubs in England to offset the impact of the rates revaluation, to detail the amount of extra funding Northern Ireland will receive.","answerText":"The amount of additional funding the Executive will receive following the Chancellor’s announcement will be confirmed at the Spring Statement in March.","answerHtml":"The amount of additional funding the Executive will receive following the Chancellor’s announcement will be confirmed at the Spring Statement in March.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039255%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468424","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468424"}},{"id":"468423","reference":"AQW 39254/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-28","answerBy":"2026-02-12","answered":"2026-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how soon, after the final Disability Strategy is published, he expects the action plan(s) to be published.","answerText":"Following consideration by the Executive departments of responses to the current public consultation, the Disability Strategy will be refined and an accompanying Disability Action Plan will be developed. I intend this work to continue to be taken forward at pace, however final decisions on the timeframe for the publication of the final the Disability Strategy and accompanying Action Plan remain subject to Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"Following consideration by the Executive departments of responses to the current public consultation, the Disability Strategy will be refined and an accompanying Disability Action Plan will be developed. I intend this work to continue to be taken forward at pace, however final decisions on the timeframe for the publication of the final the Disability Strategy and accompanying Action Plan remain subject to Executive agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039254%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468423","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468423"}},{"id":"468422","reference":"AQW 39253/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-28","answerBy":"2026-02-12","answered":"2026-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the Disability Strategy Action Plan will be subject to public consultation.","answerText":"The Disability Strategy Action Plan will be a living document running throughout the life of the Disability Strategy and it will be developed in partnership with the NI Disability Forum. There are currently no plans, or requirements therefore, for it to be subject to public consultation.\n\nDecisions on the timeframe for the publication of the final the Disability Strategy, including its content and implementation remain subject to Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"The Disability Strategy Action Plan will be a living document running throughout the life of the Disability Strategy and it will be developed in partnership with the NI Disability Forum. There are currently no plans, or requirements therefore, for it to be subject to public consultation.
Decisions on the timeframe for the publication of the final the Disability Strategy, including its content and implementation remain subject to Executive agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039253%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468422","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468422"}},{"id":"468421","reference":"AQW 39252/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-28","answerBy":"2026-02-12","answered":"2026-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, given the short period of time the hospitality industry has to adjust to new valuations, whether he will consider (i) the immediate introduction of transitional relief to hotels, restaurants and pubs; and (ii) a review of the system under which their Net Annual Values are calculated.","answerText":"As set out in my statement to the Assembly on 2 February 2026, I have stopped Reval 2026 in response to the concerns raised by businesses, including those in the hospitality sector, about the implications of proceeding with the draft valuations at this time.\n\nMy full statement is available at:\n\nFinance Minister Oral Statement - Reval 2026 | Department of Finance","answerHtml":"As set out in my statement to the Assembly on 2 February 2026, I have stopped Reval 2026 in response to the concerns raised by businesses, including those in the hospitality sector, about the implications of proceeding with the draft valuations at this time.
My full statement is available at:
Finance Minister Oral Statement - Reval 2026 | Department of Finance
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039252%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468421","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468421"}},{"id":"469271","reference":"AQO 3034/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-22","answerBy":"2026-02-02","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether any assessment has been undertaken to determine if current school-based systems are adequate to deliver improved educational outcomes for neurodivergent pupils.","answerText":"My department fully appreciates the growing numbers of neurodiverse and neurodivergent children and young people across our schools and this needs to be reflected in our approach to all aspects of the education system from building design to curriculum, to teacher training, to assessment and to other areas of pupil supports.\n\nThe Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda and associated Delivery Plan, published February 2025, is the culmination of a comprehensive End to End Review of SEN provision from existing policy through to operational delivery via the Education Authority (EA) and other educational partners. The Reform Agenda and Delivery Plan set out a range of actions proposed to transform the educational experience of all children with SEN including neurodivergent children and young people.\n\nThe EA early actions taken forward include:\n\nPublication and implementation of a child-centred Graduated Response Framework, and\n\nImplementation of child-centred Local IMPACT Teams.\n\nThe Graduated Response Framework provides guidance to schools and educational settings on how to identify and support children and young people with SEN/Disabilities. The framework builds on established good practice already in schools and provides a flexible, child-centred approach, allowing movement between stages of the SEN Code of Practice based on need and progress.\n\nThe EA’s Pupil Support Services transitioned to a regionally based Local IMPACT Teams model. This new network of localised multi-specialism teams offers a wide range of support to schools at both the whole-school level and Stage 1 and 2 of the SEN Code of Practice. This process is needs-led with provision is based on the presenting needs of the child or young person.","answerHtml":"My department fully appreciates the growing numbers of neurodiverse and neurodivergent children and young people across our schools and this needs to be reflected in our approach to all aspects of the education system from building design to curriculum, to teacher training, to assessment and to other areas of pupil supports.
The Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda and associated Delivery Plan, published February 2025, is the culmination of a comprehensive End to End Review of SEN provision from existing policy through to operational delivery via the Education Authority (EA) and other educational partners. The Reform Agenda and Delivery Plan set out a range of actions proposed to transform the educational experience of all children with SEN including neurodivergent children and young people.
The EA early actions taken forward include:
Publication and implementation of a child-centred Graduated Response Framework, and
Implementation of child-centred Local IMPACT Teams.
The Graduated Response Framework provides guidance to schools and educational settings on how to identify and support children and young people with SEN/Disabilities. The framework builds on established good practice already in schools and provides a flexible, child-centred approach, allowing movement between stages of the SEN Code of Practice based on need and progress.
The EA’s Pupil Support Services transitioned to a regionally based Local IMPACT Teams model. This new network of localised multi-specialism teams offers a wide range of support to schools at both the whole-school level and Stage 1 and 2 of the SEN Code of Practice. This process is needs-led with provision is based on the presenting needs of the child or young person.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203034%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469271","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469271"}},{"id":"466818","reference":"AQW 38477/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-19","answerBy":"2026-02-03","answered":"2026-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the 17 December 2025 article released by the Royal College of Emergency Medicine that there were 1,122 deaths associated with long Emergency Department waits in 2024. (i) to detail any steps that are being taken to monitor and reduce mortality linked to these prolonged waits; and (ii) whether he will provide the number of deaths associated with long Emergency Department waits for 2025.","answerText":"I refer the Member to my previous response to AQW 33053/22-27 and AQW 35304/2227.\n\nI recognise the serious concerns raised in the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) article of 17 December 2025 regarding mortality associated with long emergency department (ED) waits. Reducing delays for patients remains a key priority for my Department, and we continue to work closely with Health and Social Care Trusts, the RCEM and other professional bodies to improve patient flow and enhance safety across the unscheduled care pathway.\n\nWith regard to the steps being taken to monitor and reduce mortality linked to prolonged ED waits, my Department is engaged with the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Emergency Medicine team and is aware of the Standard Mortality Ratio methodology used by RCEM to estimate excess deaths associated with ED stays of 12 hours or longer prior to admission. As outlined previously, establishing direct causality between prolonged waits and individual patient outcomes is highly complex and would require more detailed, patient-level information than is currently available.\n\nNonetheless, my Department continues to monitor a range of indicators related to ED performance, patient flow and safety including crowding, ambulance handover times, time to initial assessment, and delays in admission. These measures enable Trusts to identify and respond to risks associated with extended waits.\n\nA wide programme of work is underway to reduce delays in EDs and thereby mitigate associated risks. This includes:\n\nexpanding urgent care centres and minor injury units to provide safe and timely alternatives to ED attendance;\n\nthe continued roll-out of Phone First services to support patients in accessing the most appropriate pathway;\n\ntargeted actions to improve ambulance handover processes outside EDs; and,\n\nstrengthening senior decision-making capacity, including the appointment of an additional 21 emergency medicine consultants over the past year, developed in collaboration with RCEM and Trusts.\n\nThese actions form part of a system-wide approach to improve flow throughout hospitals, reduce congestion in EDs and support the timely delivery of safe and effective care.\n\nWith regard to whether my Department will provide the number of deaths associated with long ED waits for 2025, as stated previously, my Department does not hold specific data on the number of deaths associated with long waits in EDs, nor does it routinely collect the detailed information required to calculate excess mortality using the Standard Mortality Ratio approach. While my Department continues to consider the methodologies used elsewhere, such analyses require a level of granularity in patient tracking and outcome attribution that is not currently available within our systems.\n\nMy Department will continue to work with Trusts, GIRFT and professional bodies to strengthen data quality and to identify opportunities to improve monitoring and analysis as part of ongoing service improvement.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to my previous response to AQW 33053/22-27 and AQW 35304/2227.
I recognise the serious concerns raised in the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) article of 17 December 2025 regarding mortality associated with long emergency department (ED) waits. Reducing delays for patients remains a key priority for my Department, and we continue to work closely with Health and Social Care Trusts, the RCEM and other professional bodies to improve patient flow and enhance safety across the unscheduled care pathway.
With regard to the steps being taken to monitor and reduce mortality linked to prolonged ED waits, my Department is engaged with the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Emergency Medicine team and is aware of the Standard Mortality Ratio methodology used by RCEM to estimate excess deaths associated with ED stays of 12 hours or longer prior to admission. As outlined previously, establishing direct causality between prolonged waits and individual patient outcomes is highly complex and would require more detailed, patient-level information than is currently available.
Nonetheless, my Department continues to monitor a range of indicators related to ED performance, patient flow and safety including crowding, ambulance handover times, time to initial assessment, and delays in admission. These measures enable Trusts to identify and respond to risks associated with extended waits.
A wide programme of work is underway to reduce delays in EDs and thereby mitigate associated risks. This includes:
expanding urgent care centres and minor injury units to provide safe and timely alternatives to ED attendance;
the continued roll-out of Phone First services to support patients in accessing the most appropriate pathway;
targeted actions to improve ambulance handover processes outside EDs; and,
strengthening senior decision-making capacity, including the appointment of an additional 21 emergency medicine consultants over the past year, developed in collaboration with RCEM and Trusts.
These actions form part of a system-wide approach to improve flow throughout hospitals, reduce congestion in EDs and support the timely delivery of safe and effective care.
With regard to whether my Department will provide the number of deaths associated with long ED waits for 2025, as stated previously, my Department does not hold specific data on the number of deaths associated with long waits in EDs, nor does it routinely collect the detailed information required to calculate excess mortality using the Standard Mortality Ratio approach. While my Department continues to consider the methodologies used elsewhere, such analyses require a level of granularity in patient tracking and outcome attribution that is not currently available within our systems.
My Department will continue to work with Trusts, GIRFT and professional bodies to strengthen data quality and to identify opportunities to improve monitoring and analysis as part of ongoing service improvement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038477%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466818"}},{"id":"466817","reference":"AQW 38476/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-19","answerBy":"2026-02-03","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in light of the decision by NHS England to expand routine access to abiraterone for prostate cancer, and with similar availability in Scotland and Wales, to detail when this treatment will be available in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My Department is aware that NHS England (NHSE) have adopted a commissioning position on the use of abiraterone (Zytiga®) for the treatment of high-risk, hormone-sensitive, non-metastatic prostate cancer in England based on the availability of a generic version of the medicine, however, my Department does not currently have a formal policy position on access to medicines recommended through an NHSE commissioning policy, such as is the case with the use of abiraterone (Zytiga®) for the treatment of high-risk, hormone-sensitive, non-metastatic prostate cancer in England.\n\nMy Department has a formal link with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) under which NICE Technology Appraisals are reviewed locally for their legal and policy applicability here, and where found to be applicable, they are endorsed for implementation within Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations. This link has ensured that Northern Ireland has access to up-to-date, independent, professional, evidence-based guidance on the value of health care interventions. In practice this means that treatments that have been recommended by NICE for routine use in the NHS in England are also routinely available in Northern Ireland.\n\nWhere NICE has recommended the use of abiraterone (Zytiga®) in the treatment of prostate cancer, this medicine is available to eligible patients in Northern Ireland, in line with the current NICE guidelines. Further information on this treatment is available at the following links:\n\nhttps://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta259\n\nhttps://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta387\n\nhttps://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta951\n\nhttps://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta1110\n\nIn circumstances where NICE is yet to complete a full appraisal, or does not recommend a particular drug, the Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) does not routinely commission that therapy for use in Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland does not have its own health technology assessment body or equivalent to NICE, Scottish Medicines Consortium or All Wales Medicine Strategy Group, that could make a bespoke determination for Northern Ireland patients in the absence of NICE guidance.\n\nMy Department has recently published a review of HSC medicines access arrangements which recognises the need to take action to ensure continued access to clinically and cost-effective medicines for the Northern Ireland population on an equitable basis, including in cases where NICE have not made a determination, but use is supported by clinical evidence and best practice. Informed by the review’s recommendations, my Department plans to review the existing workforce infrastructure underpinning medicines access pathways to identify potential resource requirements needed to strengthen existing access arrangements, including for use of off-label and off-patent medicines where use is supported by clinical evidence and best practice. Any additional resource requirements for medicines access infrastructure, and additional costs associated with provision of access for off-label or off-patent medicines, will need to be considered within the context of my Department’s challenging financial position and competing priorities.","answerHtml":"My Department is aware that NHS England (NHSE) have adopted a commissioning position on the use of abiraterone (Zytiga®) for the treatment of high-risk, hormone-sensitive, non-metastatic prostate cancer in England based on the availability of a generic version of the medicine, however, my Department does not currently have a formal policy position on access to medicines recommended through an NHSE commissioning policy, such as is the case with the use of abiraterone (Zytiga®) for the treatment of high-risk, hormone-sensitive, non-metastatic prostate cancer in England.
My Department has a formal link with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) under which NICE Technology Appraisals are reviewed locally for their legal and policy applicability here, and where found to be applicable, they are endorsed for implementation within Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations. This link has ensured that Northern Ireland has access to up-to-date, independent, professional, evidence-based guidance on the value of health care interventions. In practice this means that treatments that have been recommended by NICE for routine use in the NHS in England are also routinely available in Northern Ireland.
Where NICE has recommended the use of abiraterone (Zytiga®) in the treatment of prostate cancer, this medicine is available to eligible patients in Northern Ireland, in line with the current NICE guidelines. Further information on this treatment is available at the following links:
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta259
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta387
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta951
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta1110
In circumstances where NICE is yet to complete a full appraisal, or does not recommend a particular drug, the Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) does not routinely commission that therapy for use in Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland does not have its own health technology assessment body or equivalent to NICE, Scottish Medicines Consortium or All Wales Medicine Strategy Group, that could make a bespoke determination for Northern Ireland patients in the absence of NICE guidance.
My Department has recently published a review of HSC medicines access arrangements which recognises the need to take action to ensure continued access to clinically and cost-effective medicines for the Northern Ireland population on an equitable basis, including in cases where NICE have not made a determination, but use is supported by clinical evidence and best practice. Informed by the review’s recommendations, my Department plans to review the existing workforce infrastructure underpinning medicines access pathways to identify potential resource requirements needed to strengthen existing access arrangements, including for use of off-label and off-patent medicines where use is supported by clinical evidence and best practice. Any additional resource requirements for medicines access infrastructure, and additional costs associated with provision of access for off-label or off-patent medicines, will need to be considered within the context of my Department’s challenging financial position and competing priorities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038476%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466817"}},{"id":"466816","reference":"AQW 38475/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-19","answerBy":"2026-02-03","answered":"2026-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) how health economic analysis is incorporated into his Department's decision making, including service prioritisation and budget decisions; (ii) the number of staff within his Department who hold professional accreditation, specifically in health economics; and (iii) his assessment of whether the level of expertise is comparable to arrangements in other UK health departments, in terms of specialist qualifications in health economics.","answerText":"In light of the constrained financial environment that the Department of Health (DoH) has been operating under for several years, most of the additional funding that becomes available is directed towards addressing existing inescapable pressures rather than funding new initiatives.\n\nAll decisions with funding implications are subject to scrutiny through the normal business case process, with proposals above delegated approval limits reviewed by Departmental Economists alongside other policy and analytical specialists.\n\nEconomists working within the Department of Health are part of the wider Northern Ireland Civil Service Economist Group. They must possess at least a second-class honours degree with Economics as a major component. They bring broad skills and experience in public sector economics and contribute to budget and spending decisions through the business case process.\n\nA health economics qualification is a postgraduate or professional certification. No need has been identified within the Department for Economists to be employed with such specific qualifications.\n\nGiven the scale of the financial pressures facing the Health and Social Care system, it would not represent an effective use of the limited resources available to undertake a review of how DoH compares with the arrangements in other UK health departments in terms of specific health economics qualifications.","answerHtml":"In light of the constrained financial environment that the Department of Health (DoH) has been operating under for several years, most of the additional funding that becomes available is directed towards addressing existing inescapable pressures rather than funding new initiatives.
All decisions with funding implications are subject to scrutiny through the normal business case process, with proposals above delegated approval limits reviewed by Departmental Economists alongside other policy and analytical specialists.
Economists working within the Department of Health are part of the wider Northern Ireland Civil Service Economist Group. They must possess at least a second-class honours degree with Economics as a major component. They bring broad skills and experience in public sector economics and contribute to budget and spending decisions through the business case process.
A health economics qualification is a postgraduate or professional certification. No need has been identified within the Department for Economists to be employed with such specific qualifications.
Given the scale of the financial pressures facing the Health and Social Care system, it would not represent an effective use of the limited resources available to undertake a review of how DoH compares with the arrangements in other UK health departments in terms of specific health economics qualifications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038475%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466816","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466816"}},{"id":"466815","reference":"AQW 38474/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-19","answerBy":"2026-02-03","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when he will answer (i) AQW 35303/22-27; (ii) AQW 35302/22-27; and (iii) AQW 32715/22-27.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038474%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466815","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466815"}},{"id":"466500","reference":"AQO 2970/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-15","answerBy":"2026-01-26","answered":"2026-01-26","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on the development of a nature recovery strategy.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"Members will be aware that I made an oral statement to the House and launched the draft nature recovery strategy for public consultation on 20 January. The consultation will remain open for eight weeks, following which the strategy will be finalised for publication. It is extremely important that citizens from all parts of society and of all ages engage in the consultation. Nature provides us with our most basic needs, such as food, water and shelter. It helps regulate our climate and provides us with spaces in which to enjoy recreation. Unfortunately, nature is in decline not just here but across the world, which is why delivery of the strategy is one of my corporate pledges. At a local level, there is a statutory requirement under the Wildlife and Natural Environment Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 for my Department to develop and regularly review a biodiversity strategy to further the conservation of biodiversity in Northern Ireland. At a global level, Northern Ireland, alongside the rest of the United Kingdom, has committed to 23 targets and four goals in the global biodiversity framework agreed at the Conference of the Parties in December 2022. Therefore, my draft nature recovery strategy proposes new actions for Northern Ireland that add to the existing framework of targets in relevant policies and strategies that are already in place. The aim is to provide bigger, better managed and more connected nature to help biodiversity recover and regenerate for generations to come."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"Thanks to the Minister for his answer. What funding has his Department allocated to nature recovery projects? Will he provide some examples of the benefits of that financial support?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"Investment in nature is critical if we are to halt and reverse biodiversity loss. In 2025, I committed £3·2 million to support nature recovery projects through the environment fund. The nature recovery challenge fund offers grants to support environmental projects to deliver in the key areas of nature recovery networks, species recovery networks and 30 by 30 projects. Nine projects are being funded that will help deliver environmental improvement. They include oak woodland restoration in Fermanagh; developing nature recovery networks in Belfast; and habitat improvements in Portmore lough. The fund will award £1·4 million in grants in this financial year, totalling over £3·2 million by 2027-28."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"Mr Carroll is not in his place."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202970%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466500","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-01-26&docID=467176#AQO%202970/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466500"}},{"id":"465057","reference":"AQW 37662/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-07","answerBy":"2026-01-22","answered":"2026-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the average ambulance turnaround time at Emergency Departments in December 2025; and (ii) the performance of the Emergency Departments against the two-hour ambulance turnaround target in the Overarching Winter Preparedness Plan 2025-26.","answerText":"Table 1 shows both the average and the longest ambulance handover time for December 2025 at each emergency department (ED) and the percentage of ambulance arrivals with a handover delay over the 2-hour maximum threshold set out in the 2025/26 Overarching Winter Preparedness Plan.\n\nTable 1\n\nDec-25Average ambulance handover time\n\n(hh:mm:ss)Longest ambulance handover time\n\n(hh:mm:ss)% arrivals with delays over 2 hours\n\nAltnagelvin01:06:5107:54:5212%\n\nAntrim Area01:44:0615:26:5129%\n\nCauseway01:39:1916:31:5326%\n\nCraigavon01:46:4715:40:4425%\n\nDaisyhill01:06:0005:21:4515%\n\nMater00:54:4110:39:138%\n\nRBSC00:25:0101:36:370%\n\nRVH01:11:1810:08:4417%\n\nSouth West01:01:1607:12:089%\n\nUlster02:28:0219:04:0640%\n\nMy Department recognises the significant pressures faced by EDs and the impact these have on ambulance handover times and overall system flow. Through the Overarching Winter Preparedness Plan 2025–26, a comprehensive set of actions has been developed to address these challenges.\n\nWith regard to improving ambulance handover times, in August 2025 a regional workshop involving Trusts and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) was convened, drawing on best practice from the London Ambulance Service and King George Hospital. Based on this, new ambulance handover guidance is being finalised. Phase 1 thresholds, agreed with Trusts, aimed to eliminate ambulance handover delays exceeding two hours by 1 December 2025. Trusts are also working to prevent deterioration in shorter delay thresholds (15, 30, and 60 minutes), with a longer-term objective of achieving the 15-minute standard.\n\nIn addition to the focus on eliminating delays exceeding two hours, Trusts have been asked to reduce delays in excess of 12 hours in EDs by a minimum of 10% when compared to the same period last year. Belfast Trust has made significant progress in this regard, having achieved a 12.5% reduction in the first 9 months of the year. Whilst progress has not been as significant in other Trusts, Northern Trust achieved a 7.5% reduction in Quarter 3, Western Trust achieved a 5% reduction and South Eastern Trust achieved a 2.5% reduction. Whilst the Southern Trust did not see a reduction, they have seen a significant improvement in Quarter 3 compared to the first six months. This is the first year where the trend has been reversed.\n\nTrusts and NIAS are implementing a range of measures aimed at reducing these extended delays, including additional short stay and intermediate care beds, enhanced front door frailty and multidisciplinary assessments, the expansion of Same Day Emergency Care pathways, and strengthened discharge co-ordination. These actions are intended not only to improve performance against the two hour threshold but also to minimise the occurrence of the longest delays.\n\nWith regard to NIAS’ capacity and system flow, to support improved ambulance offload and response times, my Department has repurposed £10 million to fund targeted initiatives across Trusts. These measures include:\n\n•The expansion of Hospital at Home services in Belfast, South Eastern, and Northern Trusts, increasing community-based capacity;\n\n•Additional short stay inpatient beds (for example, eight in Altnagelvin) and intermediate care beds (for example, 12 in the Western Trust) to facilitate timely discharge;\n\n•Frailty assessment and multidisciplinary team reviews at the front door of acute hospitals;\n\n•Expansion of Same Day Emergency Care and ambulatory pathways across acute medicine, respiratory, cardiology, and surgical specialties; and\n\n•Enhanced capacity for Early Review Teams and Discharge Coordination.\n\nThese measures are embedded within each Trust’s Unscheduled Care Improvement Plan, developed in collaboration with the Regional Co-ordination Centre (RCC) and informed by the ‘Big Discussion’ workshops. Trusts are on course to have these initiatives in place ahead of winter.\n\nWith regard to how these compare with measures included in the Winter Preparedness Plan 2024-25, the 2025–26 plan builds on the foundations of the previous year, which focused on expanding urgent care alternatives such as Phone First, minor injury units, and urgent care centres. The current plan introduces:\n\n•Defined performance targets for ambulance handovers;\n\n•Expanded consultant capacity (18 emergency medicine consultants appointed, 10 more by early 2026);\n\n•System-wide collaboration through winter planning workshops; and\n\n•Significant investment in fracture care services (£12 million), with additional operating lists and beds already in place.\n\nTrust-level delivery highlights include the following:\n\n•Belfast Trust: The full implementation of the Regional Emergency and Acute Team (REACTT) model; expansion of Hospital at Home; and new roles in physiotherapy, social work, and discharge coordination;\n\n•Northern Trust: The establishment of the Hospital at Home service; enhanced senior nursing in EDs; frailty in-reach service; expansion of early intervention teams; and anticipatory care planning;\n\n•South Eastern Trust: Hospital at Home capacity increased to 40 patients; extended Early Review Team coverage; Frailty at Front Door service expanded;\n\n•Southern Trust: The expansion of ambulatory cardiology and respiratory care; Control Room Site Co-ordinator in place; and digitisation of domiciliary care brokerage; and\n\n•Western Trust: 24/7 ambulance offload cover at Altnagelvin Hospital; additional short stay inpatient and community beds; strengthened discharge co-ordination and allied health professionals navigation.\n\nThe RCC maintains operational oversight of hospital services and works closely with NIAS and Trusts to manage pressures. All hospitals retain the capability to open additional beds during surges, with up to 258 beds available across the system to respond to increased demand.\n\nThese measures reflect a coordinated and outcome-driven approach to winter preparedness, aimed at ensuring timely, safe, and effective care across Northern Ireland’s health and social care system.","answerHtml":"Table 1 shows both the average and the longest ambulance handover time for December 2025 at each emergency department (ED) and the percentage of ambulance arrivals with a handover delay over the 2-hour maximum threshold set out in the 2025/26 Overarching Winter Preparedness Plan.
Table 1
Dec-25Average ambulance handover time
(hh:mm:ss)Longest ambulance handover time
(hh:mm:ss)% arrivals with delays over 2 hours
Altnagelvin01:06:5107:54:5212%
Antrim Area01:44:0615:26:5129%
Causeway01:39:1916:31:5326%
Craigavon01:46:4715:40:4425%
Daisyhill01:06:0005:21:4515%
Mater00:54:4110:39:138%
RBSC00:25:0101:36:370%
RVH01:11:1810:08:4417%
South West01:01:1607:12:089%
Ulster02:28:0219:04:0640%
My Department recognises the significant pressures faced by EDs and the impact these have on ambulance handover times and overall system flow. Through the Overarching Winter Preparedness Plan 2025–26, a comprehensive set of actions has been developed to address these challenges.
With regard to improving ambulance handover times, in August 2025 a regional workshop involving Trusts and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) was convened, drawing on best practice from the London Ambulance Service and King George Hospital. Based on this, new ambulance handover guidance is being finalised. Phase 1 thresholds, agreed with Trusts, aimed to eliminate ambulance handover delays exceeding two hours by 1 December 2025. Trusts are also working to prevent deterioration in shorter delay thresholds (15, 30, and 60 minutes), with a longer-term objective of achieving the 15-minute standard.
In addition to the focus on eliminating delays exceeding two hours, Trusts have been asked to reduce delays in excess of 12 hours in EDs by a minimum of 10% when compared to the same period last year. Belfast Trust has made significant progress in this regard, having achieved a 12.5% reduction in the first 9 months of the year. Whilst progress has not been as significant in other Trusts, Northern Trust achieved a 7.5% reduction in Quarter 3, Western Trust achieved a 5% reduction and South Eastern Trust achieved a 2.5% reduction. Whilst the Southern Trust did not see a reduction, they have seen a significant improvement in Quarter 3 compared to the first six months. This is the first year where the trend has been reversed.
Trusts and NIAS are implementing a range of measures aimed at reducing these extended delays, including additional short stay and intermediate care beds, enhanced front door frailty and multidisciplinary assessments, the expansion of Same Day Emergency Care pathways, and strengthened discharge co-ordination. These actions are intended not only to improve performance against the two hour threshold but also to minimise the occurrence of the longest delays.
With regard to NIAS’ capacity and system flow, to support improved ambulance offload and response times, my Department has repurposed £10 million to fund targeted initiatives across Trusts. These measures include:
•The expansion of Hospital at Home services in Belfast, South Eastern, and Northern Trusts, increasing community-based capacity;
•Additional short stay inpatient beds (for example, eight in Altnagelvin) and intermediate care beds (for example, 12 in the Western Trust) to facilitate timely discharge;
•Frailty assessment and multidisciplinary team reviews at the front door of acute hospitals;
•Expansion of Same Day Emergency Care and ambulatory pathways across acute medicine, respiratory, cardiology, and surgical specialties; and
•Enhanced capacity for Early Review Teams and Discharge Coordination.
These measures are embedded within each Trust’s Unscheduled Care Improvement Plan, developed in collaboration with the Regional Co-ordination Centre (RCC) and informed by the ‘Big Discussion’ workshops. Trusts are on course to have these initiatives in place ahead of winter.
With regard to how these compare with measures included in the Winter Preparedness Plan 2024-25, the 2025–26 plan builds on the foundations of the previous year, which focused on expanding urgent care alternatives such as Phone First, minor injury units, and urgent care centres. The current plan introduces:
•Defined performance targets for ambulance handovers;
•Expanded consultant capacity (18 emergency medicine consultants appointed, 10 more by early 2026);
•System-wide collaboration through winter planning workshops; and
•Significant investment in fracture care services (£12 million), with additional operating lists and beds already in place.
Trust-level delivery highlights include the following:
•Belfast Trust: The full implementation of the Regional Emergency and Acute Team (REACTT) model; expansion of Hospital at Home; and new roles in physiotherapy, social work, and discharge coordination;
•Northern Trust: The establishment of the Hospital at Home service; enhanced senior nursing in EDs; frailty in-reach service; expansion of early intervention teams; and anticipatory care planning;
•South Eastern Trust: Hospital at Home capacity increased to 40 patients; extended Early Review Team coverage; Frailty at Front Door service expanded;
•Southern Trust: The expansion of ambulatory cardiology and respiratory care; Control Room Site Co-ordinator in place; and digitisation of domiciliary care brokerage; and
•Western Trust: 24/7 ambulance offload cover at Altnagelvin Hospital; additional short stay inpatient and community beds; strengthened discharge co-ordination and allied health professionals navigation.
The RCC maintains operational oversight of hospital services and works closely with NIAS and Trusts to manage pressures. All hospitals retain the capability to open additional beds during surges, with up to 258 beds available across the system to respond to increased demand.
These measures reflect a coordinated and outcome-driven approach to winter preparedness, aimed at ensuring timely, safe, and effective care across Northern Ireland’s health and social care system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037662%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465057","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465057"}},{"id":"465056","reference":"AQW 37661/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-07","answerBy":"2026-01-22","answered":"2026-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the longest ambulance wait outside a Emergency Department in December 2025.","answerText":"Table 1 shows both the average and the longest ambulance handover time for December 2025 at each emergency department (ED) and the percentage of ambulance arrivals with a handover delay over the 2-hour maximum threshold set out in the 2025/26 Overarching Winter Preparedness Plan.\n\nTable 1\n\nDec-25Average ambulance handover time\n\n(hh:mm:ss)Longest ambulance handover time\n\n(hh:mm:ss)% arrivals with delays over 2 hours\n\nAltnagelvin01:06:5107:54:5212%\n\nAntrim Area01:44:0615:26:5129%\n\nCauseway01:39:1916:31:5326%\n\nCraigavon01:46:4715:40:4425%\n\nDaisyhill01:06:0005:21:4515%\n\nMater00:54:4110:39:138%\n\nRBSC00:25:0101:36:370%\n\nRVH01:11:1810:08:4417%\n\nSouth West01:01:1607:12:089%\n\nUlster02:28:0219:04:0640%\n\nMy Department recognises the significant pressures faced by EDs and the impact these have on ambulance handover times and overall system flow. Through the Overarching Winter Preparedness Plan 2025–26, a comprehensive set of actions has been developed to address these challenges.\n\nWith regard to improving ambulance handover times, in August 2025 a regional workshop involving Trusts and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) was convened, drawing on best practice from the London Ambulance Service and King George Hospital. Based on this, new ambulance handover guidance is being finalised. Phase 1 thresholds, agreed with Trusts, aimed to eliminate ambulance handover delays exceeding two hours by 1 December 2025. Trusts are also working to prevent deterioration in shorter delay thresholds (15, 30, and 60 minutes), with a longer-term objective of achieving the 15-minute standard.\n\nIn addition to the focus on eliminating delays exceeding two hours, Trusts have been asked to reduce delays in excess of 12 hours in EDs by a minimum of 10% when compared to the same period last year. Belfast Trust has made significant progress in this regard, having achieved a 12.5% reduction in the first 9 months of the year. Whilst progress has not been as significant in other Trusts, Northern Trust achieved a 7.5% reduction in Quarter 3, Western Trust achieved a 5% reduction and South Eastern Trust achieved a 2.5% reduction. Whilst the Southern Trust did not see a reduction, they have seen a significant improvement in Quarter 3 compared to the first six months. This is the first year where the trend has been reversed.\n\nTrusts and NIAS are implementing a range of measures aimed at reducing these extended delays, including additional short stay and intermediate care beds, enhanced front door frailty and multidisciplinary assessments, the expansion of Same Day Emergency Care pathways, and strengthened discharge co-ordination. These actions are intended not only to improve performance against the two hour threshold but also to minimise the occurrence of the longest delays.\n\nWith regard to NIAS’ capacity and system flow, to support improved ambulance offload and response times, my Department has repurposed £10 million to fund targeted initiatives across Trusts. These measures include:\n\n•The expansion of Hospital at Home services in Belfast, South Eastern, and Northern Trusts, increasing community-based capacity;\n\n•Additional short stay inpatient beds (for example, eight in Altnagelvin) and intermediate care beds (for example, 12 in the Western Trust) to facilitate timely discharge;\n\n•Frailty assessment and multidisciplinary team reviews at the front door of acute hospitals;\n\n•Expansion of Same Day Emergency Care and ambulatory pathways across acute medicine, respiratory, cardiology, and surgical specialties; and\n\n•Enhanced capacity for Early Review Teams and Discharge Coordination.\n\nThese measures are embedded within each Trust’s Unscheduled Care Improvement Plan, developed in collaboration with the Regional Co-ordination Centre (RCC) and informed by the ‘Big Discussion’ workshops. Trusts are on course to have these initiatives in place ahead of winter.\n\nWith regard to how these compare with measures included in the Winter Preparedness Plan 2024-25, the 2025–26 plan builds on the foundations of the previous year, which focused on expanding urgent care alternatives such as Phone First, minor injury units, and urgent care centres. The current plan introduces:\n\n•Defined performance targets for ambulance handovers;\n\n•Expanded consultant capacity (18 emergency medicine consultants appointed, 10 more by early 2026);\n\n•System-wide collaboration through winter planning workshops; and\n\n•Significant investment in fracture care services (£12 million), with additional operating lists and beds already in place.\n\nTrust-level delivery highlights include the following:\n\n•Belfast Trust: The full implementation of the Regional Emergency and Acute Team (REACTT) model; expansion of Hospital at Home; and new roles in physiotherapy, social work, and discharge coordination;\n\n•Northern Trust: The establishment of the Hospital at Home service; enhanced senior nursing in EDs; frailty in-reach service; expansion of early intervention teams; and anticipatory care planning;\n\n•South Eastern Trust: Hospital at Home capacity increased to 40 patients; extended Early Review Team coverage; Frailty at Front Door service expanded;\n\n•Southern Trust: The expansion of ambulatory cardiology and respiratory care; Control Room Site Co-ordinator in place; and digitisation of domiciliary care brokerage; and\n\n•Western Trust: 24/7 ambulance offload cover at Altnagelvin Hospital; additional short stay inpatient and community beds; strengthened discharge co-ordination and allied health professionals navigation.\n\nThe RCC maintains operational oversight of hospital services and works closely with NIAS and Trusts to manage pressures. All hospitals retain the capability to open additional beds during surges, with up to 258 beds available across the system to respond to increased demand.\n\nThese measures reflect a coordinated and outcome-driven approach to winter preparedness, aimed at ensuring timely, safe, and effective care across Northern Ireland’s health and social care system.","answerHtml":"Table 1 shows both the average and the longest ambulance handover time for December 2025 at each emergency department (ED) and the percentage of ambulance arrivals with a handover delay over the 2-hour maximum threshold set out in the 2025/26 Overarching Winter Preparedness Plan.
Table 1
Dec-25Average ambulance handover time
(hh:mm:ss)Longest ambulance handover time
(hh:mm:ss)% arrivals with delays over 2 hours
Altnagelvin01:06:5107:54:5212%
Antrim Area01:44:0615:26:5129%
Causeway01:39:1916:31:5326%
Craigavon01:46:4715:40:4425%
Daisyhill01:06:0005:21:4515%
Mater00:54:4110:39:138%
RBSC00:25:0101:36:370%
RVH01:11:1810:08:4417%
South West01:01:1607:12:089%
Ulster02:28:0219:04:0640%
My Department recognises the significant pressures faced by EDs and the impact these have on ambulance handover times and overall system flow. Through the Overarching Winter Preparedness Plan 2025–26, a comprehensive set of actions has been developed to address these challenges.
With regard to improving ambulance handover times, in August 2025 a regional workshop involving Trusts and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) was convened, drawing on best practice from the London Ambulance Service and King George Hospital. Based on this, new ambulance handover guidance is being finalised. Phase 1 thresholds, agreed with Trusts, aimed to eliminate ambulance handover delays exceeding two hours by 1 December 2025. Trusts are also working to prevent deterioration in shorter delay thresholds (15, 30, and 60 minutes), with a longer-term objective of achieving the 15-minute standard.
In addition to the focus on eliminating delays exceeding two hours, Trusts have been asked to reduce delays in excess of 12 hours in EDs by a minimum of 10% when compared to the same period last year. Belfast Trust has made significant progress in this regard, having achieved a 12.5% reduction in the first 9 months of the year. Whilst progress has not been as significant in other Trusts, Northern Trust achieved a 7.5% reduction in Quarter 3, Western Trust achieved a 5% reduction and South Eastern Trust achieved a 2.5% reduction. Whilst the Southern Trust did not see a reduction, they have seen a significant improvement in Quarter 3 compared to the first six months. This is the first year where the trend has been reversed.
Trusts and NIAS are implementing a range of measures aimed at reducing these extended delays, including additional short stay and intermediate care beds, enhanced front door frailty and multidisciplinary assessments, the expansion of Same Day Emergency Care pathways, and strengthened discharge co-ordination. These actions are intended not only to improve performance against the two hour threshold but also to minimise the occurrence of the longest delays.
With regard to NIAS’ capacity and system flow, to support improved ambulance offload and response times, my Department has repurposed £10 million to fund targeted initiatives across Trusts. These measures include:
•The expansion of Hospital at Home services in Belfast, South Eastern, and Northern Trusts, increasing community-based capacity;
•Additional short stay inpatient beds (for example, eight in Altnagelvin) and intermediate care beds (for example, 12 in the Western Trust) to facilitate timely discharge;
•Frailty assessment and multidisciplinary team reviews at the front door of acute hospitals;
•Expansion of Same Day Emergency Care and ambulatory pathways across acute medicine, respiratory, cardiology, and surgical specialties; and
•Enhanced capacity for Early Review Teams and Discharge Coordination.
These measures are embedded within each Trust’s Unscheduled Care Improvement Plan, developed in collaboration with the Regional Co-ordination Centre (RCC) and informed by the ‘Big Discussion’ workshops. Trusts are on course to have these initiatives in place ahead of winter.
With regard to how these compare with measures included in the Winter Preparedness Plan 2024-25, the 2025–26 plan builds on the foundations of the previous year, which focused on expanding urgent care alternatives such as Phone First, minor injury units, and urgent care centres. The current plan introduces:
•Defined performance targets for ambulance handovers;
•Expanded consultant capacity (18 emergency medicine consultants appointed, 10 more by early 2026);
•System-wide collaboration through winter planning workshops; and
•Significant investment in fracture care services (£12 million), with additional operating lists and beds already in place.
Trust-level delivery highlights include the following:
•Belfast Trust: The full implementation of the Regional Emergency and Acute Team (REACTT) model; expansion of Hospital at Home; and new roles in physiotherapy, social work, and discharge coordination;
•Northern Trust: The establishment of the Hospital at Home service; enhanced senior nursing in EDs; frailty in-reach service; expansion of early intervention teams; and anticipatory care planning;
•South Eastern Trust: Hospital at Home capacity increased to 40 patients; extended Early Review Team coverage; Frailty at Front Door service expanded;
•Southern Trust: The expansion of ambulatory cardiology and respiratory care; Control Room Site Co-ordinator in place; and digitisation of domiciliary care brokerage; and
•Western Trust: 24/7 ambulance offload cover at Altnagelvin Hospital; additional short stay inpatient and community beds; strengthened discharge co-ordination and allied health professionals navigation.
The RCC maintains operational oversight of hospital services and works closely with NIAS and Trusts to manage pressures. All hospitals retain the capability to open additional beds during surges, with up to 258 beds available across the system to respond to increased demand.
These measures reflect a coordinated and outcome-driven approach to winter preparedness, aimed at ensuring timely, safe, and effective care across Northern Ireland’s health and social care system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037661%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465056","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465056"}},{"id":"465055","reference":"AQW 37660/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-07","answerBy":"2026-01-22","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of ambulance diverts that were in place in December 2025 due to pressures in Emergency Departments.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037660%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465055","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465055"}},{"id":"464489","reference":"AQW 37489/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-05","answerBy":"2026-01-20","answered":"2026-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the amount of the medical negligence settlement expenditure paid by Health and Social Care Trusts (i) in 2024-25, totalling over £69 million; and (ii) in 2023-24, totalling over £41 million, related to cases where liability was accepted.","answerText":"Medical Negligence claims are managed by the Department of Legal Services (DLS) within the Business Services Organisation on behalf of HSC organisations.\n\nExpenditure figures for medical negligence settlements include payments both in cases where liability was formally accepted and in cases where no admission of liability was made.\n\nHowever, as analysis of whether liability is formally accepted or where no admission of liability was made is not captured in the current DLS database, it is not possible to provide details of the amount of medical negligence settlement expenditure paid by Health and Social Care Trusts related to cases where liability was accepted in 2023-24 and 2024-25.","answerHtml":"Medical Negligence claims are managed by the Department of Legal Services (DLS) within the Business Services Organisation on behalf of HSC organisations.
Expenditure figures for medical negligence settlements include payments both in cases where liability was formally accepted and in cases where no admission of liability was made.
However, as analysis of whether liability is formally accepted or where no admission of liability was made is not captured in the current DLS database, it is not possible to provide details of the amount of medical negligence settlement expenditure paid by Health and Social Care Trusts related to cases where liability was accepted in 2023-24 and 2024-25.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037489%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464489"}},{"id":"464488","reference":"AQW 37488/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-05","answerBy":"2026-01-20","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, given that the Central Access Point (CAP) is currently funded by the British Pregnancy Advisory Service, to detail (i) why CAP is not currently funded by his Department; (ii) how that was decided; and (iii) any plans for his Department to provide future funding for CAP.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037488%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464488","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464488"}},{"id":"464487","reference":"AQW 37487/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-05","answerBy":"2026-01-20","answered":"2026-02-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of (i) adults; and (ii) children, currently awaiting assessment for ADHD, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"There is currently no commissioned service for ADHD in Northern Ireland and therefore HSC Trusts do not regularly provide information on ADHD waiting times. The information provided below is management information sourced from Trusts' manual returns, and not official statistics. The implementation of Encompass from 2024 has impacted on both the returning of data and confidence in its accuracy. In light of this HSC Trusts are currently completing validation exercises to assess the robustness of their data returns. The figures for ADHD waits were collated and provided by individual Trusts for waiting times in October 2025.\n\n(i) Number of patients on waiting list for ADHD assessment\n\nAdults\n\nNumber of Adults waiting for ADHD assessment\nHSC Trust\tCurrent waiting list*\nBelfast\t3,984\nNorthern\tN/A\nSouth Eastern\t3,889**\nSouthern\tN/A\nWestern\tN/A\nTotal\t7,873\n\n**The waitlist figures provided by South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust are unvalidated as the Trust continue to implement Encompass. They are reflective of all new referrals and those waiting a new patient appointment for the overall ADHD service which will extend beyond waiting an assessment for diagnosis.\n\n(a) Number of patients on an ADHD assessment waiting list\n\nChildren and Young People\n\nNumber of Children waiting for ADHD Diagnostic Assessment\nHSC Trust\tPaediatric waiting list\tCAMHS waiting list\tTotal\nBelfast\t1,366\t0\t1,366\nNorthern\t2,055\tN/A\t2,055\nSouth Eastern\t1,776\t9*\t1,788\nSouthern\tN/A\t751\t751\nWestern\t452\tN/A\t452\nTotal\t5,649\t760\t6,409\n\n*Belfast Health and Social Care Trust deliver CAMHS across both Belfast and South Eastern Trust areas. Their CAMHS service will undertake ADHD assessments if required for those children and young people open to CAMHS with a co-morbid mental health condition. Currently there are 9 young people waiting within South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust CAMHS for an ADHD assessment.","answerHtml":"There is currently no commissioned service for ADHD in Northern Ireland and therefore HSC Trusts do not regularly provide information on ADHD waiting times. The information provided below is management information sourced from Trusts' manual returns, and not official statistics. The implementation of Encompass from 2024 has impacted on both the returning of data and confidence in its accuracy. In light of this HSC Trusts are currently completing validation exercises to assess the robustness of their data returns. The figures for ADHD waits were collated and provided by individual Trusts for waiting times in October 2025.
(i) Number of patients on waiting list for ADHD assessment
Adults
| Number of Adults waiting for ADHD assessment | |
| HSC Trust | Current waiting list* |
| Belfast | 3,984 |
| Northern | N/A |
| South Eastern | 3,889** |
| Southern | N/A |
| Western | N/A |
| Total | 7,873 |
**The waitlist figures provided by South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust are unvalidated as the Trust continue to implement Encompass. They are reflective of all new referrals and those waiting a new patient appointment for the overall ADHD service which will extend beyond waiting an assessment for diagnosis.
(a) Number of patients on an ADHD assessment waiting list
Children and Young People
| Number of Children waiting for ADHD Diagnostic Assessment | |||
| HSC Trust | Paediatric waiting list | CAMHS waiting list | Total |
| Belfast | 1,366 | 0 | 1,366 |
| Northern | 2,055 | N/A | 2,055 |
| South Eastern | 1,776 | 9* | 1,788 |
| Southern | N/A | 751 | 751 |
| Western | 452 | N/A | 452 |
| Total | 5,649 | 760 | 6,409 |
*Belfast Health and Social Care Trust deliver CAMHS across both Belfast and South Eastern Trust areas. Their CAMHS service will undertake ADHD assessments if required for those children and young people open to CAMHS with a co-morbid mental health condition. Currently there are 9 young people waiting within South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust CAMHS for an ADHD assessment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037487%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464487","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464487"}},{"id":"464570","reference":"AQO 2898/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-05","answerBy":"2026-01-12","answered":"2026-01-12","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to outline any changes he plans to implement to rates relief in the 2026/27 financial year.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202898%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464570","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-01-12&docID=465134#AQO%202898/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464570"}},{"id":"463077","reference":"AQW 37093/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-09","answerBy":"2025-12-29","answered":"2026-01-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail who will decide and set the time bound, measurable actions targeted to progress the Disability Strategy outcomes mentioned in his statement to the Assembly today.","answerText":"The draft Disability Strategy includes a range of measures which will be considered and reported on throughout its lifespan to give a holistic picture of where the Strategy is working and, just as importantly, where it’s not. Once agreed, the final Strategy will also be supported by an Action Plan that will have clear delivery milestones and targets to ensure that the Executive is delivering.\n\nThe Action Plan will be a living and evolving document, with all Executive departments contributing to it, working in partnership with the new Northern Ireland Disability Forum, once established.","answerHtml":"The draft Disability Strategy includes a range of measures which will be considered and reported on throughout its lifespan to give a holistic picture of where the Strategy is working and, just as importantly, where it’s not. Once agreed, the final Strategy will also be supported by an Action Plan that will have clear delivery milestones and targets to ensure that the Executive is delivering.
The Action Plan will be a living and evolving document, with all Executive departments contributing to it, working in partnership with the new Northern Ireland Disability Forum, once established.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037093%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=463077","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=463077"}},{"id":"462874","reference":"AQW 36997/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-08","answerBy":"2025-12-23","answered":"2025-12-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in respect of the 29 GP practices that have handed back their contracts over the last three years, to detail the number that were receiving or had received support from the General Practice Improvement and Crisis Response Team.","answerText":"The table below outlines the number of contract handbacks over the last 5 years and instances were support had been sought from the Crisis Response Team.\n\nPractice Contract Handbacks\tWere the practice in receipt of CRT support\n2020/21\t1 Handback\nAntrim Road Medical Practice\t1 in receipt of CRT\nYes\n2021/22\t2 HandbacksDevenish PracticeBannview Medical Practice\t2 in receipt of CRTYes\nYes\n2022/23\t13 HandbacksBernaghmore Medical Practice\nBridge Street Medical\nBrookeborough & Tempo Pcs\nCookstown Cic,The Surgery\nDromore Surgery\nFlax Medical Centre\nGrove Medical Practice\nKells & Connor Medical Centre\nLisnaskea Medical Centre (Cic)\nMaphoner Surgery\nMountview Surgery\nPriory Surgery\nRacecourse Medical Group\t12 in receipt of CRTYes\nYes\nYes\nYes\nYes\nNo\nYes\nYes\nYes\nYes\nYes\nYes\nYes\n2023/24\t11 HandbacksCullybackey Medical Practice\nDonaghcloney Surgery\nFintona Medical Centre\nGalgorm Surgery\nKilkeel Medical Practice\nLarne Medical Practice\nPortadown Family Practice\nPortstewart Family Practice\nThe Medical Centre, Moy\nWade,Toner & Mcalonan Practice\nWaterside Medical Practice\t8 in receipt of CRTYes\nYes\nYes\nNo\nYes\nYes\nNo\nYes\nNo\nYes\nYes\n2024/25\t5 HandbacksBallymoney Health Centre\nDr O'Kane\nFairhill Health Centre\nNewtownhamilton Health Centre\nRathkeeland House\t4 in receipt of CRTYes\nNo\nYes\nYes\nYes\n2025/26\tNone to date","answerHtml":"The table below outlines the number of contract handbacks over the last 5 years and instances were support had been sought from the Crisis Response Team.
| Practice Contract Handbacks | Were the practice in receipt of CRT support | |
| 2020/21 | 1 Handback Antrim Road Medical Practice | 1 in receipt of CRT Yes |
| 2021/22 | 2 HandbacksDevenish PracticeBannview Medical Practice | 2 in receipt of CRTYes Yes |
| 2022/23 | 13 HandbacksBernaghmore Medical Practice Bridge Street Medical Brookeborough & Tempo Pcs Cookstown Cic,The Surgery Dromore Surgery Flax Medical Centre Grove Medical Practice Kells & Connor Medical Centre Lisnaskea Medical Centre (Cic) Maphoner Surgery Mountview Surgery Priory Surgery Racecourse Medical Group | 12 in receipt of CRTYes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes |
| 2023/24 | 11 HandbacksCullybackey Medical Practice Donaghcloney Surgery Fintona Medical Centre Galgorm Surgery Kilkeel Medical Practice Larne Medical Practice Portadown Family Practice Portstewart Family Practice The Medical Centre, Moy Wade,Toner & Mcalonan Practice Waterside Medical Practice | 8 in receipt of CRTYes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Yes No Yes Yes |
| 2024/25 | 5 HandbacksBallymoney Health Centre Dr O'Kane Fairhill Health Centre Newtownhamilton Health Centre Rathkeeland House | 4 in receipt of CRTYes No Yes Yes Yes |
| 2025/26 | None to date |
The aim of the Practice Improvement and Crisis Response Team is to support GP Practices at risk, to develop and implement an effective Practice Recovery Plan to ensure delivery of GMS services for their registered patients. This will include advice on management issues and GP clinical cover.
The service is provided through GP Federations and was established to support GP Practices at risk and to develop and implement an effective Practice Recovery Plan. The Federation-led General Practice Improvement and Crisis Response Team incorporates expert General Practice managerial support at short notice for practices at high risk or in a crisis and improved access to clinical GP cover at short notice for practices at high risk or in a crisis.
As at 10th December 2025, 1 GP Practice within the Antrim / Ballymena area is recorded as currently receiving support from the Practice Improvement and Crisis Response Team.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036894%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462682","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462682"}},{"id":"462681","reference":"AQW 36893/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-05","answerBy":"2025-12-22","answered":"2025-12-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of GP practices that are receiving support from the Practice Improvement and Crisis Response Team.","answerText":"The aim of the Practice Improvement and Crisis Response Team is to support GP Practices at risk, to develop and implement an effective Practice Recovery Plan to ensure delivery of GMS services for their registered patients. This will include advice on management issues and GP clinical cover.\n\nThe service is provided through GP Federations and was established to support GP Practices at risk and to develop and implement an effective Practice Recovery Plan. The Federation-led General Practice Improvement and Crisis Response Team incorporates expert General Practice managerial support at short notice for practices at high risk or in a crisis and improved access to clinical GP cover at short notice for practices at high risk or in a crisis.\n\nAs at 18 December 2025, 29 GP Practices are recorded as currently receiving support from the Practice Improvement and Crisis Response Team across Northern Ireland.\n\nOf these 24 practices are receiving GP clinical support, 3 are receiving managerial support and 2 practice improvement support.\n\nPrevious figures show that in February 2024 a total of 40 practices were supported, with the numbers rising to 43 in June 2024.\n\nDecember 2024 saw 29 practices receive support, with 30 in February and June 2025.","answerHtml":"The aim of the Practice Improvement and Crisis Response Team is to support GP Practices at risk, to develop and implement an effective Practice Recovery Plan to ensure delivery of GMS services for their registered patients. This will include advice on management issues and GP clinical cover.
The service is provided through GP Federations and was established to support GP Practices at risk and to develop and implement an effective Practice Recovery Plan. The Federation-led General Practice Improvement and Crisis Response Team incorporates expert General Practice managerial support at short notice for practices at high risk or in a crisis and improved access to clinical GP cover at short notice for practices at high risk or in a crisis.
As at 18 December 2025, 29 GP Practices are recorded as currently receiving support from the Practice Improvement and Crisis Response Team across Northern Ireland.
Of these 24 practices are receiving GP clinical support, 3 are receiving managerial support and 2 practice improvement support.
Previous figures show that in February 2024 a total of 40 practices were supported, with the numbers rising to 43 in June 2024.
December 2024 saw 29 practices receive support, with 30 in February and June 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036893%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462681","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462681"}},{"id":"462474","reference":"AQW 36803/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-04","answerBy":"2025-12-19","answered":"2025-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will introduce screening programmes across all health and social care services to identify and assist people with gambling problems.","answerText":"In line with the usual process for commissioning services, any decision to commission bespoke gambling treatment services in the future would need to be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, to create a fuller understanding of the population need in Northern Ireland and in the context of future budget availability. Funding for services aimed at prevention and treatment of gambling harm would require new or additional funding.\n\nIn order to develop a fuller understanding of the population need in Northern Ireland, my Department is working collaboratively with officials in the Department for Communities to build an evidence base on the level of problem gambling in Northern Ireland and its associated harms.\n\nWhilst there are currently no plans to introduce screening programmes in Northern Ireland to identify and assist people with gambling problems, my officials will consider the options for the implementation of recommendations in the All Party Group report on gambling, including screening, should funding become available.","answerHtml":"In line with the usual process for commissioning services, any decision to commission bespoke gambling treatment services in the future would need to be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, to create a fuller understanding of the population need in Northern Ireland and in the context of future budget availability. Funding for services aimed at prevention and treatment of gambling harm would require new or additional funding.
In order to develop a fuller understanding of the population need in Northern Ireland, my Department is working collaboratively with officials in the Department for Communities to build an evidence base on the level of problem gambling in Northern Ireland and its associated harms.
Whilst there are currently no plans to introduce screening programmes in Northern Ireland to identify and assist people with gambling problems, my officials will consider the options for the implementation of recommendations in the All Party Group report on gambling, including screening, should funding become available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036803%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462474","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462474"}},{"id":"462473","reference":"AQW 36802/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-04","answerBy":"2025-12-19","answered":"2025-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans his Department’s has to conduct a primary evidence review of gambling-related harms.","answerText":"It is well documented that Northern Ireland currently has a deficit in up-to-date data and evidence on gambling harms. To address this, my Department has worked collaboratively with cross-departmental colleagues to strengthen the evidence base. This includes the inclusion of gambling-related questions in the Young Person’s Behaviour and Attitude Survey 2022 (YPBAS) and, for the first time, in a pilot module, in the Northern Ireland Health Survey 2023/24. The results from the YPBAS were published on 6 December 2023 and the Northern Ireland Health Survey pilot results were published on 11 December 2025. In addition, the Department for Communities commissioned a Gambling Prevalence Survey during 2024, with results published earlier this year.\n\nWhilst there are no plans to conduct a formal primary evidence review, my officials will continue to work with officials in the Department for Communities to identify the most appropriate source of gambling prevalence and harm information for Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"It is well documented that Northern Ireland currently has a deficit in up-to-date data and evidence on gambling harms. To address this, my Department has worked collaboratively with cross-departmental colleagues to strengthen the evidence base. This includes the inclusion of gambling-related questions in the Young Person’s Behaviour and Attitude Survey 2022 (YPBAS) and, for the first time, in a pilot module, in the Northern Ireland Health Survey 2023/24. The results from the YPBAS were published on 6 December 2023 and the Northern Ireland Health Survey pilot results were published on 11 December 2025. In addition, the Department for Communities commissioned a Gambling Prevalence Survey during 2024, with results published earlier this year.
Whilst there are no plans to conduct a formal primary evidence review, my officials will continue to work with officials in the Department for Communities to identify the most appropriate source of gambling prevalence and harm information for Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036802%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462473","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462473"}},{"id":"462971","reference":"AQO 2860/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-27","answerBy":"2025-12-08","answered":"2025-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline any actions his Department is taking to expand the availability of accessible and appropriate housing for people with disabilities, in light of the shortfall in suitable provision.","answerText":"The Executive Housing Supply Strategy, developed following extensive consultation with stakeholders including disability organisations, highlights the need for more affordable and accessible homes that meet a diverse range of needs.\n\nMy Department is working with Executive colleagues and the Housing Executive to develop the first Strategy Action Plan focused on practical, deliverable solutions to such issues.\n\nAlongside this, in the delivery of the Social Housing Development Programme, all new build social homes are currently built to ‘Lifetime Homes Standards’, ensuring that homes can be easily adapted to meet the changing needs of tenants.\n\nHousing Associations are also asked to include wheelchair accessible units within all development proposals.\n\nMy Department also provides funding, administered by the Housing Executive, for Disabled Facilities Grants to adapt the home of a disabled person who is living in the private sector. We are working with the Department of Health and the Housing Executive on a review of these grants to identify ways to improve this service.\n\nWe also fund the Supporting People Programme, which provides housing-related support that helps people, including those with disabilities, to live on their own. This year, I allocated an additional £1 million for pipeline schemes in 2025/26 to fund new and extended Supporting People services.\n\nI have just given my approval for the Housing Executive to launch a public consultation on proposed amendments to the House Sales Scheme. This will include exclusion of adapted or accessible dwellings which have undergone major adaptations from the Scheme so this accommodation remains available for people with disabilities.","answerHtml":"The Executive Housing Supply Strategy, developed following extensive consultation with stakeholders including disability organisations, highlights the need for more affordable and accessible homes that meet a diverse range of needs.
My Department is working with Executive colleagues and the Housing Executive to develop the first Strategy Action Plan focused on practical, deliverable solutions to such issues.
Alongside this, in the delivery of the Social Housing Development Programme, all new build social homes are currently built to ‘Lifetime Homes Standards’, ensuring that homes can be easily adapted to meet the changing needs of tenants.
Housing Associations are also asked to include wheelchair accessible units within all development proposals.
My Department also provides funding, administered by the Housing Executive, for Disabled Facilities Grants to adapt the home of a disabled person who is living in the private sector. We are working with the Department of Health and the Housing Executive on a review of these grants to identify ways to improve this service.
We also fund the Supporting People Programme, which provides housing-related support that helps people, including those with disabilities, to live on their own. This year, I allocated an additional £1 million for pipeline schemes in 2025/26 to fund new and extended Supporting People services.
I have just given my approval for the Housing Executive to launch a public consultation on proposed amendments to the House Sales Scheme. This will include exclusion of adapted or accessible dwellings which have undergone major adaptations from the Scheme so this accommodation remains available for people with disabilities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202860%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462971","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462971"}},{"id":"461458","reference":"AQO 2833/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-27","answerBy":"2025-12-08","answered":"2025-12-08","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how their Department will ensure the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland is adequately funded to carry out its statutory duties, including for any obligations under evolving equality standards.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly (The deputy First Minister)","text":"The Executive Office is committed to ensuring that the Equality Commission has the resources required to fulfil its statutory responsibilities, including those that it has under evolving equality standards. The commission has been allocated £4·7 million in resource and capital budget from the Executive Office for the financial year 2025-26. We engage regularly with the commission, including through quarterly partnership meetings and attendance at its audit and risk assurance committee. That engagement helps to align resources with responsibilities and supports the identification of emerging needs. As an arm’s-length body of the Executive Office, the commission participates in the required forecasting and monitoring budgetary processes."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the deputy First Minister for that answer. Earlier this year, the Equality Commission published a research paper entitled 'Funding for Equality Groups in NI: The impact of the transition from EU funding to UK Shared Prosperity Fund'. Which recommendations from that research has the Department considered, and which, if any, is it taking forward?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly","text":"I thank the Member for his supplementary question. We want to ensure that there is adequate funding for community groups across all areas, including those in the equality space that work with older people, younger people, people with disabilities and many more. It is important that they are properly funded and that they know well in advance what funding they will get for the coming year. There is no doubt that the three-year Budget will help with that process. As the Member is, no doubt, aware, however, there is a particular issue with the ending of the Shared Prosperity Fund and its transition into the local growth fund. I have corresponded with and spoken directly to the Finance Minister on that issue. I have worked with a number of groups throughout Northern Ireland that are very concerned about that transition. We are actively looking at options to support those groups. The fact that we, as an Executive, had such late notice of the replacement of that funding with the local growth fund is unacceptable, as is the impact of that on employees in the organisations that are still in a position of uncertainty."},{"speaker":"Ms Ní Chuilín","text":"Can the deputy First Minister confirm that the budget figure that she read out will not impact on the work that the Equality Commission does, particularly for vulnerable groups, on equality, inclusion and, indeed, respect?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly","text":"I thank the Member for her supplementary question. From speaking to groups, including our arm's-length bodies, we know that they could always do more with more — there is no doubt about that — and, indeed, we have to make difficult decisions in order to balance that with the budget that we are allocated. I have no doubt that the Equality Commission wants to do more and that it could do more if it had a bigger budget, but it has a sizeable budget of almost £5 million. In this case, that budget is very much for the commission itself, because the groups on the ground are funded through a range of Departments, agencies, councils etc. We always want to work in a collaborative way to ensure, as far as possible, that those groups get sufficient funding and, as I said, sufficient notice of the funding that they will get; hopefully, the three-year Budget process will really help with that."},{"speaker":"Mr Clarke","text":"Has any assessment been done of what the Equality Commission spends its budget on and, in particular, how much it has spent on the legal cases that it has taken recently?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly","text":"I thank the Member for his question. The Equality Commission has operational independence from the Executive Office. There is, of course, concern among many people out there about the commission's prioritising. Just this week, we have seen further action being launched in relation to the Supreme Court judgement on the definition of \"sex\" and the biological definition of \"man\" and \"woman\". I do not believe that that is necessary expenditure; however, the commission is operationally independent, and that is a decision that it can make. However, the question is about whether it should make that decision. Should it prioritise it? I advise the Member that the commission has a full-time equivalent staff cohort of just over 100 and is carrying a significant number of vacancies. Just under 50 staff are in place. That is not uncommon across the system, because we are carrying a significant number of vacancies. Part of that is because of the challenges within our budget and trying to ensure efficiency across our system."},{"speaker":"Mr Gaston","text":"Does the deputy First Minister agree that it is a disgrace that the Equality Commission has enough money to take an action against the Supreme Court to try to get men into girls' bathrooms? Does that not suggest that her Department is giving the commission far too much money if it can waste it on a futile challenge such as that?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly","text":"That aligns with my answers to the substantive and supplementary questions. At this difficult time of fiscal constraint, people should be looking at what they are doing and making decisions that are based on what best serves people. I do not believe that that legal action is necessary at all. It is more legal action, more cost and more delay, but on what? It is about common sense, and common sense must prevail. I think that most people find the issue to be completely bonkers, not because they want to hate on anyone but because it is common sense that the definition of a man or a woman is related to biological sex. More important is the reality that there should be, and must be, safe spaces and female-only spaces, be they in changing rooms, toilets or places of sanctuary. It is also about fairness. We have seen that play out in sport. As a woman, I never consented to my rights being diminished by that definition being changed or by evolving attempts to change it. However, what we see now is an Equality Commission that is arguing that to reset that to a common-sense definition of biological male or female is somehow a diminution of somebody else's rights. That is wrong. It is absolutely bonkers; we need to get back to common sense and to stop wasting money on that type of thing."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202833%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461458","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-12-08&docID=462200#AQO%202833/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461458"}},{"id":"462177","reference":"AQO 2816/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-20","answerBy":"2025-12-02","answered":"2025-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on his actions to establish an Independent Environmental Protection Agency.","answerText":"In 2020, New Decade New Approach had a commitment to set up an independent Environmental Protection Agency. There have also been two Assembly motions endorsing it in 2020 and in 2025. The independent expert panel have most recently provided unequivocal support for an independent EPA, in their report published in October 2025. However, despite this context and the clear and significant damage that failed environmental governance is having on our environment, our economy, people’s livelihoods, and crucially public trust and confidence, I am still seeking Executive support, in principle, to establish an independent Environmental Protection Agency in Northern Ireland.\n\nI am not alone in finding this hugely frustrating when we consider the costs of inaction and the overwhelming support for change which will benefit everyone.\n\nI would urge my Executive colleagues to provide the support needed.","answerHtml":"In 2020, New Decade New Approach had a commitment to set up an independent Environmental Protection Agency. There have also been two Assembly motions endorsing it in 2020 and in 2025. The independent expert panel have most recently provided unequivocal support for an independent EPA, in their report published in October 2025. However, despite this context and the clear and significant damage that failed environmental governance is having on our environment, our economy, people’s livelihoods, and crucially public trust and confidence, I am still seeking Executive support, in principle, to establish an independent Environmental Protection Agency in Northern Ireland.
I am not alone in finding this hugely frustrating when we consider the costs of inaction and the overwhelming support for change which will benefit everyone.
I would urge my Executive colleagues to provide the support needed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202816%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462177","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462177"}},{"id":"461966","reference":"AQO 2799/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-20","answerBy":"2025-12-01","answered":"2025-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on her plans to allow broadcasting in courts.","answerText":"ANSWER – AQO 2799/22-27\n\nI believe that the broadcasting of certain court proceedings, such as legal exchanges and judgments in the Court of Appeal, and sentencing remarks in the Crown Court, will be a positive step in enhancing the transparency of the justice system.\n\nI wish to emphasise again that I am not proposing to allow the recording or filming of victims, witnesses, defendants or jurors, nor indeed members of the public or court staff.\n\nBroadcasting will, in essence, simply provide another way for journalists to cover proceedings on which they can already report, and any reporting restrictions would still apply.\n\nA report, summarising the response to the broadcasting of courts consultation, was published at the end of October.","answerHtml":"ANSWER – AQO 2799/22-27
I believe that the broadcasting of certain court proceedings, such as legal exchanges and judgments in the Court of Appeal, and sentencing remarks in the Crown Court, will be a positive step in enhancing the transparency of the justice system.
I wish to emphasise again that I am not proposing to allow the recording or filming of victims, witnesses, defendants or jurors, nor indeed members of the public or court staff.
Broadcasting will, in essence, simply provide another way for journalists to cover proceedings on which they can already report, and any reporting restrictions would still apply.
A report, summarising the response to the broadcasting of courts consultation, was published at the end of October.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202799%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461966","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461966"}},{"id":"461019","reference":"AQO 2773/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-13","answerBy":"2025-11-25","answered":"2025-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for an update on the timeline for agreeing a multi-year budget for the Executive.","answerText":"As previously outlined in the Chamber, I will bring proposals on a draft Budget to the Executive in December, following the Chancellors Autumn Budget.\n\nSubject to the Executive’s agreement, this will allow for a 12-week public consultation to launch in December, shortly after the draft Budget is agreed.\n\nResponses to this public consultation will help shape the Executive considerations in agreeing a final multi-year Budget which will set Resource allocations for the next three years and Capital allocations for the next four years.","answerHtml":"As previously outlined in the Chamber, I will bring proposals on a draft Budget to the Executive in December, following the Chancellors Autumn Budget.
Subject to the Executive’s agreement, this will allow for a 12-week public consultation to launch in December, shortly after the draft Budget is agreed.
Responses to this public consultation will help shape the Executive considerations in agreeing a final multi-year Budget which will set Resource allocations for the next three years and Capital allocations for the next four years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202773%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461019","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461019"}},{"id":"458696","reference":"AQW 35305/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-12","answerBy":"2025-11-20","answered":"2025-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, given the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) keeps its advice on seasonal flu vaccination programmes under regular review, to detail (i) what contingency plans are in place should the JCVI change its guidelines; and (ii) to detail within what timeframe could his Department respond to any change.","answerText":"The JCVI aims to provide a clear framework for the annual influenza (flu) vaccination programme in advance, meeting every June and October to provide its advice on the following year's flu vaccination programme. This allows sufficient time for policy considerations, approvals, and procurement processes to be completed for the following year.\n\nThe JCVI does, however, retain the flexibility to adapt its advice based on the dynamic nature of flu viruses and emerging scientific evidence. On rare occasions, the JCVI may change its flu advice at short notice in response to emerging evidence, significant changes in the epidemiological situation (e.g., emergence of a new, highly transmissible or virulent strain), or issues with vaccine supply or availability.\n\nThe timescales within which my Department can respond to changing JCVI advice will vary depending on when the advice is published and the specifics of the advice. For example, during the 2023/24 programme the influenza and COVID-19 campaigns were implemented over a shorter condensed period in response to the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant.\n\nThe influenza strains in vaccine changes from year to year and therefore sufficient quantities of flu vaccine are purchased based on the JCVI advice issued in October the previous year. This is to avoid excess vaccine being wasted at the end of each flu season. Should the JCVI recommend an expansion of the current flu vaccination programme at this late stage, the PHA, which manages the supply of vaccines for the programme, would balance availability with demand via ordering controls, allowing for rapid adjustments to distribution. However if, the purchase of additional influenza vaccine stock was necessary, the PHA, (along with other UK administrations), would need to seek this from manufacturers at short notice.","answerHtml":"The JCVI aims to provide a clear framework for the annual influenza (flu) vaccination programme in advance, meeting every June and October to provide its advice on the following year's flu vaccination programme. This allows sufficient time for policy considerations, approvals, and procurement processes to be completed for the following year.
The JCVI does, however, retain the flexibility to adapt its advice based on the dynamic nature of flu viruses and emerging scientific evidence. On rare occasions, the JCVI may change its flu advice at short notice in response to emerging evidence, significant changes in the epidemiological situation (e.g., emergence of a new, highly transmissible or virulent strain), or issues with vaccine supply or availability.
The timescales within which my Department can respond to changing JCVI advice will vary depending on when the advice is published and the specifics of the advice. For example, during the 2023/24 programme the influenza and COVID-19 campaigns were implemented over a shorter condensed period in response to the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant.
The influenza strains in vaccine changes from year to year and therefore sufficient quantities of flu vaccine are purchased based on the JCVI advice issued in October the previous year. This is to avoid excess vaccine being wasted at the end of each flu season. Should the JCVI recommend an expansion of the current flu vaccination programme at this late stage, the PHA, which manages the supply of vaccines for the programme, would balance availability with demand via ordering controls, allowing for rapid adjustments to distribution. However if, the purchase of additional influenza vaccine stock was necessary, the PHA, (along with other UK administrations), would need to seek this from manufacturers at short notice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035305%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458696","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458696"}},{"id":"458695","reference":"AQW 35304/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-12","answerBy":"2025-11-27","answered":"2025-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether there are any plans to record and publish the specific data required for the standardised mortality ratio in order to ascertain the number of excess deaths associated with long waits in Emergency Departments.","answerText":"I refer to my previous response to AQW 33053/ 22-27 on this matter. I acknowledge the serious concerns regarding prolonged waiting times in emergency departments (EDs) and remain committed to working with Health and Social Care Trusts and community services to implement a range of actions aimed at improving patient flow and reducing delays for patients. My Department continues to work closely with the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) and other professional bodies to identify and apply best practice approaches to improve flow within hospitals.\n\nThrough engagement with the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Emergency Medicine Team, my Department is aware of the Standard Mortality Ratio methodology, which estimates excess deaths associated with stays of 12 hours or longer prior to admission to a hospital bed. However, my Department does not hold specific data on the number of excess deaths linked to extended waits in EDs. Establishing causality in such cases is highly complex and would require more granular data than is currently available.\n\nRecognising the significant challenges faced by EDs, my Department has worked closely with Health and Social Care Trusts and community services to implement a range of measures aimed at improving patient flow and reducing delays.\n\nTo help alleviate pressures within EDs, my Department has introduced a number of targeted initiatives. These include the expansion of urgent care centres, the roll-out of Phone First services and the development of minor injury units. These services provide patients with timely alternatives to ED attendance, ensuring that those who do attend can be seen, treated and discharged more promptly.\n\nAdditional support has also been provided to Trusts ahead of winter to address ambulance handover delays outside EDs, ensuring that patients are transferred safely and without unnecessary delay. Furthermore, in preparation for the winter period, my Department has worked with the RCEM and the Trusts to secure the appointment of an additional 20 emergency medicine consultants over the past year. This will strengthen resilience and enhance senior decision-making capacity within EDs.\n\nAll of these measures are designed to improve patient flow throughout hospitals, reduce congestion in EDs and improve waiting times. These actions form part of a broader, system-wide approach to ensure that patients receive timely, safe and effective care both within EDs and across the wider health and social care system.","answerHtml":"I refer to my previous response to AQW 33053/ 22-27 on this matter. I acknowledge the serious concerns regarding prolonged waiting times in emergency departments (EDs) and remain committed to working with Health and Social Care Trusts and community services to implement a range of actions aimed at improving patient flow and reducing delays for patients. My Department continues to work closely with the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) and other professional bodies to identify and apply best practice approaches to improve flow within hospitals.
Through engagement with the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Emergency Medicine Team, my Department is aware of the Standard Mortality Ratio methodology, which estimates excess deaths associated with stays of 12 hours or longer prior to admission to a hospital bed. However, my Department does not hold specific data on the number of excess deaths linked to extended waits in EDs. Establishing causality in such cases is highly complex and would require more granular data than is currently available.
Recognising the significant challenges faced by EDs, my Department has worked closely with Health and Social Care Trusts and community services to implement a range of measures aimed at improving patient flow and reducing delays.
To help alleviate pressures within EDs, my Department has introduced a number of targeted initiatives. These include the expansion of urgent care centres, the roll-out of Phone First services and the development of minor injury units. These services provide patients with timely alternatives to ED attendance, ensuring that those who do attend can be seen, treated and discharged more promptly.
Additional support has also been provided to Trusts ahead of winter to address ambulance handover delays outside EDs, ensuring that patients are transferred safely and without unnecessary delay. Furthermore, in preparation for the winter period, my Department has worked with the RCEM and the Trusts to secure the appointment of an additional 20 emergency medicine consultants over the past year. This will strengthen resilience and enhance senior decision-making capacity within EDs.
All of these measures are designed to improve patient flow throughout hospitals, reduce congestion in EDs and improve waiting times. These actions form part of a broader, system-wide approach to ensure that patients receive timely, safe and effective care both within EDs and across the wider health and social care system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035304%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458695","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458695"}},{"id":"458694","reference":"AQW 35303/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-12","answerBy":"2025-11-27","answered":"2026-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment he has made on the capacity of the health and social care system to manage the combined pressures of rising flu cases and other winter demands.","answerText":"When we published the Department’s Overarching Winter Plan alongside the Trusts’ local plans in October, I stressed that the system and the public need to work together and all play our part. This will help to make sure that HSC services are ready and available for those who need them most. Improving effectiveness includes measures such as getting vaccinated, taking steps to stay well and co-operating with the hospital discharge processes.\n\nThe 2025/26 Winter Plan builds on last year’s foundations, focusing on expanding urgent care alternatives such as Phone First, minor injury units, and urgent care centres. These initiatives are embedded within each Trust’s Plans. In advance of Christmas, all Trusts focused on increased discharges to maximise bed capacity, putting hospital sites in an improved position compared to the same period in 2024. While Emergency Department (ED) attendances and ambulance arrivals were on some days higher than forecast, we have seen improvement in comparison with 2024.\n\nWhile Flu rates peaked earlier than last year, I am encouraged that related admissions had begun to decrease before Christmas, in all age groups. Flu-related hospital admissions stabilised, remaining lower than 2024 and ICU admissions rose slightly but remained below 2024 levels. We must however remain vigilant and continue to take all the steps we can to reduce the transmission of infectious diseases.","answerHtml":"When we published the Department’s Overarching Winter Plan alongside the Trusts’ local plans in October, I stressed that the system and the public need to work together and all play our part. This will help to make sure that HSC services are ready and available for those who need them most. Improving effectiveness includes measures such as getting vaccinated, taking steps to stay well and co-operating with the hospital discharge processes.
The 2025/26 Winter Plan builds on last year’s foundations, focusing on expanding urgent care alternatives such as Phone First, minor injury units, and urgent care centres. These initiatives are embedded within each Trust’s Plans. In advance of Christmas, all Trusts focused on increased discharges to maximise bed capacity, putting hospital sites in an improved position compared to the same period in 2024. While Emergency Department (ED) attendances and ambulance arrivals were on some days higher than forecast, we have seen improvement in comparison with 2024.
While Flu rates peaked earlier than last year, I am encouraged that related admissions had begun to decrease before Christmas, in all age groups. Flu-related hospital admissions stabilised, remaining lower than 2024 and ICU admissions rose slightly but remained below 2024 levels. We must however remain vigilant and continue to take all the steps we can to reduce the transmission of infectious diseases.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035303%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458694","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458694"}},{"id":"458693","reference":"AQW 35302/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-12","answerBy":"2025-11-27","answered":"2026-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any epidemiological modelling his Department has undertaken on the risk of rising flu levels this winter.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) monitors a number of indicators of the incidence and severity of influenza and other respiratory infections and reports many key indicators on the PHA website weekly during the winter season. PHA also monitors information from elsewhere in the world about hazards to health, including seasonal influenza, and publishes a high-level summary on its website every week. The intelligence from these reporting processes is also communicated directly to my officials.\n\nPHA uses a quasi-Poisson statistical model on a large number of surveillance indicators to detect outbreaks and unusual infectious disease activity. This detected the early start to the influenza season, contributing to PHA’s advice to my Department that influenza was circulating earlier than usual. As a result, the Chief Medical Officer issued guidance to HSC on 23 September 2025 that antivirals could be prescribed for suspected influenza in the community.\n\nThe seasonal Influenza A epidemic has waned rapidly since reaching its peak before Christmas. The peak number of admissions each week was similar to last year, though more of those affected were children.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) monitors a number of indicators of the incidence and severity of influenza and other respiratory infections and reports many key indicators on the PHA website weekly during the winter season. PHA also monitors information from elsewhere in the world about hazards to health, including seasonal influenza, and publishes a high-level summary on its website every week. The intelligence from these reporting processes is also communicated directly to my officials.
PHA uses a quasi-Poisson statistical model on a large number of surveillance indicators to detect outbreaks and unusual infectious disease activity. This detected the early start to the influenza season, contributing to PHA’s advice to my Department that influenza was circulating earlier than usual. As a result, the Chief Medical Officer issued guidance to HSC on 23 September 2025 that antivirals could be prescribed for suspected influenza in the community.
The seasonal Influenza A epidemic has waned rapidly since reaching its peak before Christmas. The peak number of admissions each week was similar to last year, though more of those affected were children.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035302%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458693","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458693"}},{"id":"458692","reference":"AQW 35301/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-12","answerBy":"2025-11-27","answered":"2025-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans in place to increase vaccination uptake rates across the population.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) is responsible for the operational delivery of all national vaccination programmes in Northern Ireland, and it employs a range of activities to support and promote vaccination uptake.\n\nThe PHA has established an Improving Childhood Vaccine Uptake Working Group to identify barriers to uptake and implement actions to improve uptake in childhood vaccination programmes to prevent vaccine-preventable diseases and potential outbreaks in Northern Ireland. Actions taken include:\n\nAdditional training for vaccinators in the use of the Child Health System to call eligible children appropriately;\n\nImplementation of core immunisation training for vaccinators through the Clinical Education Centre (including training on communication and motivational interviewing);\n\nThe creation of additional public resources for cohorts where uptake is known to be low, including the provision of materials in different languages and for populations where literacy may be lower;\n\nLiaison with the Education Authority to promote awareness of the importance vaccination within educational settings;\n\nProviding training and resources for Sure Start leads to promote vaccinations in pre-school settings;\n\nProviding GPs with advisory letters highlighting their practice uptake and comparisons to other GPs in their area; and\n\nCollaborating with charities such as Cancer Focus and Meningitis Research Foundation to promote associated vaccination programmes.\n\nIn addition, the PHA conducts school visits, promotes immunisation programmes in undergraduate and postgraduate medical and nursing settings, and hosts webinars for professional groups including GPs, community pharmacies, teachers and the NI Childminder’s association.\n\nWith regard to seasonal vaccination programmes, the PHA has deployed the following:\n\nA review of vaccine uptake by school and Super Output Level to facilitate targeted action to low uptake areas to address convenience and confidence in vaccination programmes;\n\nProvision of professional training slides to support vaccinating staff and of hard copy and online patient information material as part of informed consent;\n\nProvision of social media resources (including infographics, “flu virus watch” statistics and school’s information);\n\nLiaison with the Education Authority to promote flu vaccination through schools; and\n\nThe publication of vaccination uptake rates on the PHA website to share performance.\n\nIn addition, and because of indications of an earlier than usual influenza season, the PHA will shortly be rolling out a paid-for communications campaign to promote the flu vaccination programme and encourage uptake by all eligible groups.\n\nThe ‘Stay Well This Winter’’ campaign supported by social media and printed materials, is also currently running in over 500 Living Well community pharmacies and promotes uptake of the flu, COVID-19, RSV and pneumococcal vaccines, for those who are eligible. The Living Well campaign has previously focused on childhood immunisations in 2023 and 2024.\n\nThe PHA also oversees a range of activities in relation to adult and ‘at risk’ programmes including:\n\nThe promotion of vaccines for older adults via PHA social media and at community events such as Positive Ageing Month.\n\nThe provision of professional training slides to support vaccinating staff, and of print and online patient information material as part of informed consent; and\n\nThe roll out of pertussis vaccine to HSC Trusts (based within maternity services) to improve access to vaccination for pregnant women. The RSV vaccination programme is also administered to pregnant women via HSC Trust maternity services.\n\nA programme of work to promote pregnancy vaccines through the midwifery workforce is also underway, and a survey is currently live which aims to help the PHA understand current knowledge and beliefs around vaccination. In addition, the PHA continues to promote vaccinations for the Gay, bisexual, men who have sex with men (GBMSM) community (these include the HPV, Mpox and Gonorrhoea 4CMenB vaccinations), including the promotion and administration of vaccines at Pride events across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe PHA is a member of the “UK forum to facilitate discussion on declining coverage and inequalities”, which is chaired by the UK Health Security Agency. This groups brings together relevant stakeholders from across the UK nations to explore the likely contributing factors to declining coverage across the routine immunisation programmes, to identify common issues, discuss potential actions to address the issues, and facilitate the sharing of experience and learning across the UK nations.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) is responsible for the operational delivery of all national vaccination programmes in Northern Ireland, and it employs a range of activities to support and promote vaccination uptake.
The PHA has established an Improving Childhood Vaccine Uptake Working Group to identify barriers to uptake and implement actions to improve uptake in childhood vaccination programmes to prevent vaccine-preventable diseases and potential outbreaks in Northern Ireland. Actions taken include:
Additional training for vaccinators in the use of the Child Health System to call eligible children appropriately;
Implementation of core immunisation training for vaccinators through the Clinical Education Centre (including training on communication and motivational interviewing);
The creation of additional public resources for cohorts where uptake is known to be low, including the provision of materials in different languages and for populations where literacy may be lower;
Liaison with the Education Authority to promote awareness of the importance vaccination within educational settings;
Providing training and resources for Sure Start leads to promote vaccinations in pre-school settings;
Providing GPs with advisory letters highlighting their practice uptake and comparisons to other GPs in their area; and
Collaborating with charities such as Cancer Focus and Meningitis Research Foundation to promote associated vaccination programmes.
In addition, the PHA conducts school visits, promotes immunisation programmes in undergraduate and postgraduate medical and nursing settings, and hosts webinars for professional groups including GPs, community pharmacies, teachers and the NI Childminder’s association.
With regard to seasonal vaccination programmes, the PHA has deployed the following:
A review of vaccine uptake by school and Super Output Level to facilitate targeted action to low uptake areas to address convenience and confidence in vaccination programmes;
Provision of professional training slides to support vaccinating staff and of hard copy and online patient information material as part of informed consent;
Provision of social media resources (including infographics, “flu virus watch” statistics and school’s information);
Liaison with the Education Authority to promote flu vaccination through schools; and
The publication of vaccination uptake rates on the PHA website to share performance.
In addition, and because of indications of an earlier than usual influenza season, the PHA will shortly be rolling out a paid-for communications campaign to promote the flu vaccination programme and encourage uptake by all eligible groups.
The ‘Stay Well This Winter’’ campaign supported by social media and printed materials, is also currently running in over 500 Living Well community pharmacies and promotes uptake of the flu, COVID-19, RSV and pneumococcal vaccines, for those who are eligible. The Living Well campaign has previously focused on childhood immunisations in 2023 and 2024.
The PHA also oversees a range of activities in relation to adult and ‘at risk’ programmes including:
The promotion of vaccines for older adults via PHA social media and at community events such as Positive Ageing Month.
The provision of professional training slides to support vaccinating staff, and of print and online patient information material as part of informed consent; and
The roll out of pertussis vaccine to HSC Trusts (based within maternity services) to improve access to vaccination for pregnant women. The RSV vaccination programme is also administered to pregnant women via HSC Trust maternity services.
A programme of work to promote pregnancy vaccines through the midwifery workforce is also underway, and a survey is currently live which aims to help the PHA understand current knowledge and beliefs around vaccination. In addition, the PHA continues to promote vaccinations for the Gay, bisexual, men who have sex with men (GBMSM) community (these include the HPV, Mpox and Gonorrhoea 4CMenB vaccinations), including the promotion and administration of vaccines at Pride events across Northern Ireland.
The PHA is a member of the “UK forum to facilitate discussion on declining coverage and inequalities”, which is chaired by the UK Health Security Agency. This groups brings together relevant stakeholders from across the UK nations to explore the likely contributing factors to declining coverage across the routine immunisation programmes, to identify common issues, discuss potential actions to address the issues, and facilitate the sharing of experience and learning across the UK nations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035301%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458692","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458692"}},{"id":"456520","reference":"AQO 2676/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-23","answerBy":"2025-11-11","answered":"2025-11-11","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of the Independent Review of Environmental Governance in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202676%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456520","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-11-11&docID=457576#AQO%202676/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456520"}},{"id":"454566","reference":"AQW 33388/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-13","answerBy":"2025-10-28","answered":"2025-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how his Department can support people experiencing homelessness, given the findings of the Simon Community’s October 2025 report Childhood Adversity and Homelessness in Northern Ireland: Breaking the Cycle, which shows that diagnosed mental health conditions are around four times higher for single adults living in homeless hostels than the general population.","answerText":"My Department is committed to understanding and responding to the healthcare needs of those experiencing homelessness in Northern Ireland.\n\nThose experiencing chronic homelessness can have diverse needs, mental and physical health issues, addictions, legal and justice issues. The individuals often require very pronounced, integrated and specialist support needs to facilitate an exit from homelessness.\n\nWe are committed to tackling homelessness, and the issues associated with this, through a variety of workstreams and strategies including the Preventing Harm, Empowering Recovery Substance Use Strategy, Mental Health Strategy and continued cross departmental collaboration with DfC and DoJ and sector engagement with key stakeholders. My Department continues to lead on a number of actions to tackle homelessness from a non-accommodation perspective via the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan and contributes to the Housing Supply Strategy.\n\nMy officials are currently in the process of initiating a Health Homelessness Policy Advisory Group, bringing together key policy officials across the Department, and relevant ALBs to foster a high level of internal collaboration across the Department in regard to homelessness policy, improve joined up thinking with the aim of improving overall collaboration cross-Departmentally and delivering improved outcomes for those experiencing homelessness.\n\nThe Complex Lives initiative established by the Public Health Agency (PHA), Belfast City Council, and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, is operating and providing support to those who are homeless and at risk in the Belfast area. With a Multi-Disciplinary Team in place, it is providing a whole system, accountable care approach to supporting people experiencing multiple disadvantages with the aim of helping people engage, stabilise, and find a new way forward with their lives.\n\nFurther support includes the Belfast Inclusion Health Services hub, funded by the PHA, which provides multi-disciplinary community care, including dental, podiatry, mental health, and social work services. The Belfast Inclusion Health Service is a nurse-led multidisciplinary service set up to address the health and social care needs of those experiencing homelessness within the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust area. Further inclusion nurses are also in place in all Trust areas, to support the needs of those experiencing homelessness.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to understanding and responding to the healthcare needs of those experiencing homelessness in Northern Ireland.
Those experiencing chronic homelessness can have diverse needs, mental and physical health issues, addictions, legal and justice issues. The individuals often require very pronounced, integrated and specialist support needs to facilitate an exit from homelessness.
We are committed to tackling homelessness, and the issues associated with this, through a variety of workstreams and strategies including the Preventing Harm, Empowering Recovery Substance Use Strategy, Mental Health Strategy and continued cross departmental collaboration with DfC and DoJ and sector engagement with key stakeholders. My Department continues to lead on a number of actions to tackle homelessness from a non-accommodation perspective via the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan and contributes to the Housing Supply Strategy.
My officials are currently in the process of initiating a Health Homelessness Policy Advisory Group, bringing together key policy officials across the Department, and relevant ALBs to foster a high level of internal collaboration across the Department in regard to homelessness policy, improve joined up thinking with the aim of improving overall collaboration cross-Departmentally and delivering improved outcomes for those experiencing homelessness.
The Complex Lives initiative established by the Public Health Agency (PHA), Belfast City Council, and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, is operating and providing support to those who are homeless and at risk in the Belfast area. With a Multi-Disciplinary Team in place, it is providing a whole system, accountable care approach to supporting people experiencing multiple disadvantages with the aim of helping people engage, stabilise, and find a new way forward with their lives.
Further support includes the Belfast Inclusion Health Services hub, funded by the PHA, which provides multi-disciplinary community care, including dental, podiatry, mental health, and social work services. The Belfast Inclusion Health Service is a nurse-led multidisciplinary service set up to address the health and social care needs of those experiencing homelessness within the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust area. Further inclusion nurses are also in place in all Trust areas, to support the needs of those experiencing homelessness.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033388%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454566","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454566"}},{"id":"454167","reference":"AQO 2572/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-09","answerBy":"2025-10-20","answered":"2025-10-20","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on the development of the Local Economic Partnership in Mid and East Antrim.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202572%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454167","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-10-20&docID=454909#AQO%202572/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454167"}},{"id":"453829","reference":"AQW 33053/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-08","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether an assessment has been made of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine's September 2025 press release on excess deaths associated with long waits in Scotland’s Emergency Departments before admission in 2024; and (ii) to detail the number of similarly associated excess deaths in Northern Ireland using the Standard Mortality Ratio, in 2024.","answerText":"I recognise the serious concerns raised by prolonged waiting times in our Emergency Departments and continue to work with Trusts and community services to implement a range of actions aimed at improving patient flow and reducing delays for patients. My Department works closely with the Royal College of Emergency Medicine and other professional bodies to look at how best we can improve flow in our hospitals.\n\nThrough work with the GIRFT Emergency Medicine Team, my Department is aware of the Standard Mortality Ratio methodology which estimates excess deaths related to stays of 12-hours or longer before being admitted to a hospital bed. However, My Department does not hold specific data on the number of excess deaths associated with long waits in Emergency Departments. Determining causality in such cases is complex and not possible due to limitations in current data collection systems.\n\nIn 2025/26, I am determined to find better ways to work as a system to tackle waiting times in EDs. That is why I initiated a series of winter planning workshops to identify solutions to the system flow issues that we collectively face. The workshops saw attendance from HSC leaders across the system, including Royal Colleges, clinicians, and other frontline services.\n\nI hope to publish my Winter Preparedness Plan imminently. The plan will identify other steps that my Department and key partners are taking to help manage pressures.\n\nUltimately, all of these measures are aimed at improving flow throughout the hospital, reducing congestion in our EDs and improving waiting times.\n\nThese efforts are part of a broader system-wide approach to ensure patients receive timely, safe, and effective care, both within EDs and across the wider health and social care system.","answerHtml":"I recognise the serious concerns raised by prolonged waiting times in our Emergency Departments and continue to work with Trusts and community services to implement a range of actions aimed at improving patient flow and reducing delays for patients. My Department works closely with the Royal College of Emergency Medicine and other professional bodies to look at how best we can improve flow in our hospitals.
Through work with the GIRFT Emergency Medicine Team, my Department is aware of the Standard Mortality Ratio methodology which estimates excess deaths related to stays of 12-hours or longer before being admitted to a hospital bed. However, My Department does not hold specific data on the number of excess deaths associated with long waits in Emergency Departments. Determining causality in such cases is complex and not possible due to limitations in current data collection systems.
In 2025/26, I am determined to find better ways to work as a system to tackle waiting times in EDs. That is why I initiated a series of winter planning workshops to identify solutions to the system flow issues that we collectively face. The workshops saw attendance from HSC leaders across the system, including Royal Colleges, clinicians, and other frontline services.
I hope to publish my Winter Preparedness Plan imminently. The plan will identify other steps that my Department and key partners are taking to help manage pressures.
Ultimately, all of these measures are aimed at improving flow throughout the hospital, reducing congestion in our EDs and improving waiting times.
These efforts are part of a broader system-wide approach to ensure patients receive timely, safe, and effective care, both within EDs and across the wider health and social care system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033053%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453829","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453829"}},{"id":"453828","reference":"AQW 33052/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-08","answerBy":"2025-10-23","answered":"2025-10-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, given that the Urgent and Emergency Care Waiting Time Statistics for Northern Ireland (April - June 2025) had over 500 patients waiting over two days in Emergency Departments (ED) for a bed on the ward and that the Royal College of Emergency Medicine has published evidence of the mortality risk for patients waiting for beds for a long time in overcrowded EDs; whether he will consider eradicating 24 and 48 hour waits in EDs.","answerText":"I acknowledge that the current waiting times in our Emergency Departments are too long for patients across Northern Ireland. This situation has arisen due to several factors, including funding that falls short of objectively assessed need and previous missed opportunities to reform health and social care delivery.\n\nThe pressures are related not just to the numbers of patients attending ED, but also the acuity of patient conditions. A central factor is capacity in social care, which impacts on hospital discharge rates and consequently on patient flow from EDs.\n\nThis is why my long-term vision involves diverting patients to the most appropriate care pathways first time, to provide patients with the best care possible and to avoid unnecessary ED attendance. This includes an increase in the number of same day emergency care clinics and an increased focus on community provision, through services such as Hospital at Home.\n\nThere is no quick fix, but I remain committed to addressing the current situation subject to sustained long-term effort, additional recurrent funding and support across the political spectrum.","answerHtml":"I acknowledge that the current waiting times in our Emergency Departments are too long for patients across Northern Ireland. This situation has arisen due to several factors, including funding that falls short of objectively assessed need and previous missed opportunities to reform health and social care delivery.
The pressures are related not just to the numbers of patients attending ED, but also the acuity of patient conditions. A central factor is capacity in social care, which impacts on hospital discharge rates and consequently on patient flow from EDs.
This is why my long-term vision involves diverting patients to the most appropriate care pathways first time, to provide patients with the best care possible and to avoid unnecessary ED attendance. This includes an increase in the number of same day emergency care clinics and an increased focus on community provision, through services such as Hospital at Home.
There is no quick fix, but I remain committed to addressing the current situation subject to sustained long-term effort, additional recurrent funding and support across the political spectrum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033052%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453828","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453828"}},{"id":"453827","reference":"AQW 33051/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-08","answerBy":"2025-10-23","answered":"2025-10-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline any measures his Department is putting in place to ensure that beds are available for patients who need to be admitted to hospital from Emergency Departments (ED) instead of having to wait in the ED.","answerText":"As part of the GIRFT Review, a Summary Emergency Department Indicator Table (SEDIT) was developed for Northern Ireland, presenting data across four key areas: demand, capacity, flow, and outcomes. In assessing capacity, consideration is given to factors such as the number of resus and majors treatment cubicles in Emergency Departments (Eds), the availability of ED consultant and nursing staff, as well as acute and elderly beds available in each hospital. The SEDIT shows that for the majority of sites in Northern Ireland, when compared to peers in England and Wales, our hospitals have sufficient capacity to manage the demand levels. Where our hospitals do not compare favourably with peers is around flow and outcomes. This indicates that hospital capacity is not the limiting factor, but rather flow through our hospitals, highlighting the need to improve discharge processes and overall patient flow.\n\nIn order to help Trusts manage pressures over the winter period, £10m has been re-purposed and made available to Trusts for targeted actions across a range of areas from pre-hospital care through to acute care and into the community. These are to be in place by the end of October and form part of the Trusts unscheduled care plans.\n\nThe measures across Trusts include increased capacity of Hospital at Home in Belfast, South Eastern and Northern Trusts, which provides extra bed capacity in the community; eight additional short stay inpatient beds at Altnagelvin along with 12 additional intermediate care beds; frailty assessment at the front door of acute hospitals; expansion of ambulatory and Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC); multidisciplinary team assessment at the front door of acute hospitals; and enhanced capacity for early review teams and discharge co-ordination in Trusts.\n\nThis additional capacity supplements hospital inpatient beds and aims to avoid admission and provide alternative pathways for patients which are often more appropriate than additional inpatient beds.\n\nAt times of increased pressure, all hospitals have capacity to open additional inpatient escalation beds. In total across our hospitals, an additional 258 beds can be opened to help manage demand.\n\nTo address back door pressures and accelerate hospital discharges, a range of initiatives are being implemented. These include reviewing the Regional Care Home Contract to better support individuals with complex needs, expanding home care capacity using technology and AI, and developing a regional model for service delivery. The Early Review Team reassesses care packages within eight weeks to recycle hours back into the system, while the Care Line Live digital tool helps Trusts optimise scheduling and staffing. The Trusted Assessor model is improving transitions from hospital to care homes, with plans to expand to a seven-day service. A regional digital app is also being developed to provide daily updates on care home bed availability, and direct payments including emergency options are being promoted to give individuals greater control over their care.\n\nCollectively, these measures are designed to ensure timely access to inpatient beds for patients requiring admission from emergency departments.","answerHtml":"As part of the GIRFT Review, a Summary Emergency Department Indicator Table (SEDIT) was developed for Northern Ireland, presenting data across four key areas: demand, capacity, flow, and outcomes. In assessing capacity, consideration is given to factors such as the number of resus and majors treatment cubicles in Emergency Departments (Eds), the availability of ED consultant and nursing staff, as well as acute and elderly beds available in each hospital. The SEDIT shows that for the majority of sites in Northern Ireland, when compared to peers in England and Wales, our hospitals have sufficient capacity to manage the demand levels. Where our hospitals do not compare favourably with peers is around flow and outcomes. This indicates that hospital capacity is not the limiting factor, but rather flow through our hospitals, highlighting the need to improve discharge processes and overall patient flow.
In order to help Trusts manage pressures over the winter period, £10m has been re-purposed and made available to Trusts for targeted actions across a range of areas from pre-hospital care through to acute care and into the community. These are to be in place by the end of October and form part of the Trusts unscheduled care plans.
The measures across Trusts include increased capacity of Hospital at Home in Belfast, South Eastern and Northern Trusts, which provides extra bed capacity in the community; eight additional short stay inpatient beds at Altnagelvin along with 12 additional intermediate care beds; frailty assessment at the front door of acute hospitals; expansion of ambulatory and Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC); multidisciplinary team assessment at the front door of acute hospitals; and enhanced capacity for early review teams and discharge co-ordination in Trusts.
This additional capacity supplements hospital inpatient beds and aims to avoid admission and provide alternative pathways for patients which are often more appropriate than additional inpatient beds.
At times of increased pressure, all hospitals have capacity to open additional inpatient escalation beds. In total across our hospitals, an additional 258 beds can be opened to help manage demand.
To address back door pressures and accelerate hospital discharges, a range of initiatives are being implemented. These include reviewing the Regional Care Home Contract to better support individuals with complex needs, expanding home care capacity using technology and AI, and developing a regional model for service delivery. The Early Review Team reassesses care packages within eight weeks to recycle hours back into the system, while the Care Line Live digital tool helps Trusts optimise scheduling and staffing. The Trusted Assessor model is improving transitions from hospital to care homes, with plans to expand to a seven-day service. A regional digital app is also being developed to provide daily updates on care home bed availability, and direct payments including emergency options are being promoted to give individuals greater control over their care.
Collectively, these measures are designed to ensure timely access to inpatient beds for patients requiring admission from emergency departments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033051%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453827","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453827"}},{"id":"453826","reference":"AQW 33050/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-08","answerBy":"2025-10-23","answered":"2025-10-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his Department's assessment of the number of patients currently in hospital whose medical treatment is complete but cannot leave hospital because of a lack of social care capacity.","answerText":"The table below outlines data that was accurate on 13 October 2025. This reflects only social care delays, whereby an individual is awaiting a care home or home care package.\n\nHSC Trust\tNo. of Individuals Medically Fit Awaiting Home Care Package\tNo. of Individuals Medically Fit Awaiting a Care Home Placement\tTotal\nWHSCT\t37\t58\t95\nNHSCT\t7\t41\t48\nSEHSCT\t6\t38\t44\nBHSCT\t29\t94\t123\nSHSCT\t46\t39\t85\nTotals\t125\t270\t395","answerHtml":"The table below outlines data that was accurate on 13 October 2025. This reflects only social care delays, whereby an individual is awaiting a care home or home care package.
| HSC Trust | No. of Individuals Medically Fit Awaiting Home Care Package | No. of Individuals Medically Fit Awaiting a Care Home Placement | Total |
| WHSCT | 37 | 58 | 95 |
| NHSCT | 7 | 41 | 48 |
| SEHSCT | 6 | 38 | 44 |
| BHSCT | 29 | 94 | 123 |
| SHSCT | 46 | 39 | 85 |
| Totals | 125 | 270 | 395 |
My Department does not hold specific data on the number of excess deaths directly attributable to excessive waits in emergency departments (EDs) during the periods in question. Determining causality in such cases is complex and not possible due to limitations in current data collection systems. However, I recognise the serious concerns raised by prolonged waiting times and continue to work with Trusts and community services to implement a range of actions aimed at improving patient flow and reducing delays.
To help alleviate pressures in EDs, my Department has implemented a range of targeted initiatives. These include the expansion of Urgent Care Centres, Phone First Services and Minor Injury Units, offering patients timely alternatives to ED attendance.
Ahead of the coming winter, the department has worked with the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) and the Trusts to ensure that an additional 18 emergency medicine consultants have been appointed to work in EDs across Northern Ireland. A further ten consultants are expected to complete their training by December 2025, and it is anticipated that they will also be recruited locally to provide further resilience and senior decision-making capacity to our EDs this winter.
In 2025/26, I am determined to find better ways to work as a system to tackle waiting times in EDs. That is why I initiated a series of winter planning workshops to identify solutions to the system flow issues that we collectively face. The workshops saw attendance from HSC leaders across the system, including Royal Colleges, clinicians, and other frontline services.
I hope to publish my Winter Preparedness Plan in the coming weeks that will aim to see improved outcomes before the next winter. The plan will identify other steps that my Department and key partners are taking to help manage pressures.
Ultimately, all of these measures are aimed at improving flow throughout the hospital, reducing congestion in our EDs and improving waiting times.
These efforts are part of a broader system-wide approach to ensure patients receive timely, safe, and effective care, both within EDs and across the wider health and social care system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032591%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452595","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452595"}},{"id":"452594","reference":"AQW 32590/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-02","answerBy":"2025-10-17","answered":"2025-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his Department’s assessment of the number of excess deaths which arose from excessive waits in Emergency Departments between 1 October and 31 March in: (i) 2022-23; (ii) 2023-24; and (iii) 2024-25.","answerText":"My Department does not hold specific data on the number of excess deaths directly attributable to excessive waits in emergency departments (EDs) during the periods in question. Determining causality in such cases is complex and not possible due to limitations in current data collection systems. However, I recognise the serious concerns raised by prolonged waiting times and continue to work with Trusts and community services to implement a range of actions aimed at improving patient flow and reducing delays.\n\nTo help alleviate pressures in EDs, my Department has implemented a range of targeted initiatives. These include the expansion of Urgent Care Centres, Phone First Services and Minor Injury Units, offering patients timely alternatives to ED attendance.\n\nAhead of the coming winter, the department has worked with the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) and the Trusts to ensure that an additional 18 emergency medicine consultants have been appointed to work in EDs across Northern Ireland. A further ten consultants are expected to complete their training by December 2025, and it is anticipated that they will also be recruited locally to provide further resilience and senior decision-making capacity to our EDs this winter.\n\nIn 2025/26, I am determined to find better ways to work as a system to tackle waiting times in EDs. That is why I initiated a series of winter planning workshops to identify solutions to the system flow issues that we collectively face. The workshops saw attendance from HSC leaders across the system, including Royal Colleges, clinicians, and other frontline services.\n\nI hope to publish my Winter Preparedness Plan in the coming weeks that will aim to see improved outcomes before the next winter. The plan will identify other steps that my Department and key partners are taking to help manage pressures.\n\nUltimately, all of these measures are aimed at improving flow throughout the hospital, reducing congestion in our EDs and improving waiting times.\n\nThese efforts are part of a broader system-wide approach to ensure patients receive timely, safe, and effective care, both within EDs and across the wider health and social care system.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold specific data on the number of excess deaths directly attributable to excessive waits in emergency departments (EDs) during the periods in question. Determining causality in such cases is complex and not possible due to limitations in current data collection systems. However, I recognise the serious concerns raised by prolonged waiting times and continue to work with Trusts and community services to implement a range of actions aimed at improving patient flow and reducing delays.
To help alleviate pressures in EDs, my Department has implemented a range of targeted initiatives. These include the expansion of Urgent Care Centres, Phone First Services and Minor Injury Units, offering patients timely alternatives to ED attendance.
Ahead of the coming winter, the department has worked with the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) and the Trusts to ensure that an additional 18 emergency medicine consultants have been appointed to work in EDs across Northern Ireland. A further ten consultants are expected to complete their training by December 2025, and it is anticipated that they will also be recruited locally to provide further resilience and senior decision-making capacity to our EDs this winter.
In 2025/26, I am determined to find better ways to work as a system to tackle waiting times in EDs. That is why I initiated a series of winter planning workshops to identify solutions to the system flow issues that we collectively face. The workshops saw attendance from HSC leaders across the system, including Royal Colleges, clinicians, and other frontline services.
I hope to publish my Winter Preparedness Plan in the coming weeks that will aim to see improved outcomes before the next winter. The plan will identify other steps that my Department and key partners are taking to help manage pressures.
Ultimately, all of these measures are aimed at improving flow throughout the hospital, reducing congestion in our EDs and improving waiting times.
These efforts are part of a broader system-wide approach to ensure patients receive timely, safe, and effective care, both within EDs and across the wider health and social care system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032590%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452594","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452594"}},{"id":"452593","reference":"AQW 32589/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-02","answerBy":"2025-10-17","answered":"2025-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline what differences will be apparent in this year’s Winter Preparedness Plan compared to that published on 6 November 2024.","answerText":"Earlier this year, under the leadership of the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Nursing Officer, I brought together senior leaders from across the Health and Social Care system to explore the learning from last winter, as we plan for winter 2025/26. I was clear that I wanted a whole system approach looking at what could be achieved both in advance of this winter and in the longer-term.\n\nThis process identified the need for a particular focus on interventions to improve the care of those older people living with frailty and other co-morbidities, who have been identified as some of the most vulnerable to the risks associated with the winter period, and this will be reflected in this year’s plan.\n\nSeven action plans have been established which focus on reducing hospital demand by supporting older people to stay well and receive appropriate care in the community. This includes improving the use of advance clinical care planning and enhancing pathways for patients, ensuring the right care is delivered in the right place, first time.\n\nOf course, like in previous years, this year’s Winter Preparedness Plan will also identify other steps that the Department and key partners are taking to help manage pressures, including enhancements for General Practice, efforts to tackle ambulance handover delays and additions to Community Pharmacy services. We have also mobilised an extensive vaccination programme, to minimise the impact from winter infections such as influenza, RSV and COVID-19.\n\nI will publish the Winter Preparedness Plan imminently and, as in previous years, we will again call upon the public to do everything possible to help protect our system, including utilising community services, where available, and getting vaccinated, if eligible.","answerHtml":"Earlier this year, under the leadership of the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Nursing Officer, I brought together senior leaders from across the Health and Social Care system to explore the learning from last winter, as we plan for winter 2025/26. I was clear that I wanted a whole system approach looking at what could be achieved both in advance of this winter and in the longer-term.
This process identified the need for a particular focus on interventions to improve the care of those older people living with frailty and other co-morbidities, who have been identified as some of the most vulnerable to the risks associated with the winter period, and this will be reflected in this year’s plan.
Seven action plans have been established which focus on reducing hospital demand by supporting older people to stay well and receive appropriate care in the community. This includes improving the use of advance clinical care planning and enhancing pathways for patients, ensuring the right care is delivered in the right place, first time.
Of course, like in previous years, this year’s Winter Preparedness Plan will also identify other steps that the Department and key partners are taking to help manage pressures, including enhancements for General Practice, efforts to tackle ambulance handover delays and additions to Community Pharmacy services. We have also mobilised an extensive vaccination programme, to minimise the impact from winter infections such as influenza, RSV and COVID-19.
I will publish the Winter Preparedness Plan imminently and, as in previous years, we will again call upon the public to do everything possible to help protect our system, including utilising community services, where available, and getting vaccinated, if eligible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032589%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452593","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452593"}},{"id":"452592","reference":"AQW 32588/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-02","answerBy":"2025-10-17","answered":"2025-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail when he will publish the Winter Preparedness Plan.","answerText":"Earlier this year, under the leadership of the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Nursing Officer, I brought together senior leaders from across the Health and Social Care system to explore the learning from last winter, as we plan for winter 2025/26. I was clear that I wanted a whole system approach looking at what could be achieved both in advance of this winter and in the longer-term.\n\nThis process identified the need for a particular focus on interventions to improve the care of those older people living with frailty and other co-morbidities, who have been identified as some of the most vulnerable to the risks associated with the winter period, and this will be reflected in this year’s plan.\n\nSeven action plans have been established which focus on reducing hospital demand by supporting older people to stay well and receive appropriate care in the community. This includes improving the use of advance clinical care planning and enhancing pathways for patients, ensuring the right care is delivered in the right place, first time.\n\nOf course, like in previous years, this year’s Winter Preparedness Plan will also identify other steps that the Department and key partners are taking to help manage pressures, including enhancements for General Practice, efforts to tackle ambulance handover delays and additions to Community Pharmacy services. We have also mobilised an extensive vaccination programme, to minimise the impact from winter infections such as influenza, RSV and COVID-19.\n\nI will publish the Winter Preparedness Plan imminently and, as in previous years, we will again call upon the public to do everything possible to help protect our system, including utilising community services, where available, and getting vaccinated, if eligible.","answerHtml":"Earlier this year, under the leadership of the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Nursing Officer, I brought together senior leaders from across the Health and Social Care system to explore the learning from last winter, as we plan for winter 2025/26. I was clear that I wanted a whole system approach looking at what could be achieved both in advance of this winter and in the longer-term.
This process identified the need for a particular focus on interventions to improve the care of those older people living with frailty and other co-morbidities, who have been identified as some of the most vulnerable to the risks associated with the winter period, and this will be reflected in this year’s plan.
Seven action plans have been established which focus on reducing hospital demand by supporting older people to stay well and receive appropriate care in the community. This includes improving the use of advance clinical care planning and enhancing pathways for patients, ensuring the right care is delivered in the right place, first time.
Of course, like in previous years, this year’s Winter Preparedness Plan will also identify other steps that the Department and key partners are taking to help manage pressures, including enhancements for General Practice, efforts to tackle ambulance handover delays and additions to Community Pharmacy services. We have also mobilised an extensive vaccination programme, to minimise the impact from winter infections such as influenza, RSV and COVID-19.
I will publish the Winter Preparedness Plan imminently and, as in previous years, we will again call upon the public to do everything possible to help protect our system, including utilising community services, where available, and getting vaccinated, if eligible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032588%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452592","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452592"}},{"id":"452415","reference":"AQW 32481/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what action he is taking to overcome winter vaccination programme hesitancy.","answerText":"Whilst over 800,000 COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations were administered as part of the 2024/25 programmes, uptake of both vaccinations has declined in some eligible cohorts in recent years. Reasons behind the decline can be influenced by multiple factors including broader socio-cultural, trust (or distrust) in healthcare systems and providers, past experiences with vaccines or healthcare encounters, perceived risks of diseases versus vaccine side effects, recommendations from healthcare institutions, and personal beliefs, as well as access to locations to receive vaccination.\n\nIn addressing this complex issue, the Public Health Agency (PHA) has established a multi-disciplinary working group to identify and implement how to improve vaccination uptake rates. An action plan has been developed to support the work of the group across five separate themes of data; access to services; communications; operational management; and training and education.\n\nVaccination is now available from multiple sources right across NI, such as all GP practices, participating community pharmacies and Trust led vaccination clinics and I would encourage anyone eligible to take up the offer of vaccination when invited to do so.","answerHtml":"Whilst over 800,000 COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations were administered as part of the 2024/25 programmes, uptake of both vaccinations has declined in some eligible cohorts in recent years. Reasons behind the decline can be influenced by multiple factors including broader socio-cultural, trust (or distrust) in healthcare systems and providers, past experiences with vaccines or healthcare encounters, perceived risks of diseases versus vaccine side effects, recommendations from healthcare institutions, and personal beliefs, as well as access to locations to receive vaccination.
In addressing this complex issue, the Public Health Agency (PHA) has established a multi-disciplinary working group to identify and implement how to improve vaccination uptake rates. An action plan has been developed to support the work of the group across five separate themes of data; access to services; communications; operational management; and training and education.
Vaccination is now available from multiple sources right across NI, such as all GP practices, participating community pharmacies and Trust led vaccination clinics and I would encourage anyone eligible to take up the offer of vaccination when invited to do so.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032481%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452415","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452415"}},{"id":"452414","reference":"AQW 32480/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the impact of excluding people younger than 65 years old from the commencement of the flu vaccination programme eligible cohort.","answerText":"Eligible cohorts for the autumn and winter 2025 influenza vaccination programme in Northern Ireland are based on advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).\n\nBased on this advice, the following cohorts are eligible for the current Northern Ireland influenza vaccination programme:\n\nall those aged 65 years and over on 31 March 2026,\n\nall those aged 18 years to under 65 years in clinical risk groups,\n\nthose in long-stay residential care homes,\n\npregnant women,\n\nall preschool children aged two to four years on 1 September 2025,\n\nall school-aged children (up to and including year 12),\n\nall children in clinical risk groups aged from 6 months to less than 18 years,\n\ncarers,\n\nclose contacts of immunocompromised individuals,\n\nhigh risk poultry and avian animal health workers, and\n\nall health and social care workers\n\nThe JCVI keeps its advice on seasonal flu vaccination programmes under regular review and publishes this on an annual basis.\n\nShould their advice relating to eligible cohorts for future programmes change, my Department will consider their updated recommendations at that time.","answerHtml":"Eligible cohorts for the autumn and winter 2025 influenza vaccination programme in Northern Ireland are based on advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).
Based on this advice, the following cohorts are eligible for the current Northern Ireland influenza vaccination programme:
all those aged 65 years and over on 31 March 2026,
all those aged 18 years to under 65 years in clinical risk groups,
those in long-stay residential care homes,
pregnant women,
all preschool children aged two to four years on 1 September 2025,
all school-aged children (up to and including year 12),
all children in clinical risk groups aged from 6 months to less than 18 years,
carers,
close contacts of immunocompromised individuals,
high risk poultry and avian animal health workers, and
all health and social care workers
The JCVI keeps its advice on seasonal flu vaccination programmes under regular review and publishes this on an annual basis.
Should their advice relating to eligible cohorts for future programmes change, my Department will consider their updated recommendations at that time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032480%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452414","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452414"}},{"id":"452413","reference":"AQW 32479/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the impact of excluding people younger than 75 years old from the commencement of the flu vaccination programme eligible cohort.","answerText":"Eligible cohorts for the autumn and winter 2025 influenza vaccination programme in Northern Ireland are based on advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).\n\nBased on this advice, the following cohorts are eligible for the current Northern Ireland influenza vaccination programme:\n\nall those aged 65 years and over on 31 March 2026,\n\nall those aged 18 years to under 65 years in clinical risk groups,\n\nthose in long-stay residential care homes,\n\npregnant women,\n\nall preschool children aged two to four years on 1 September 2025,\n\nall school-aged children (up to and including year 12),\n\nall children in clinical risk groups aged from 6 months to less than 18 years,\n\ncarers,\n\nclose contacts of immunocompromised individuals,\n\nhigh risk poultry and avian animal health workers, and\n\nall health and social care workers\n\nThe JCVI keeps its advice on seasonal flu vaccination programmes under regular review and publishes this on an annual basis.\n\nShould their advice relating to eligible cohorts for future programmes change, my Department will consider their updated recommendations at that time.","answerHtml":"Eligible cohorts for the autumn and winter 2025 influenza vaccination programme in Northern Ireland are based on advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).
Based on this advice, the following cohorts are eligible for the current Northern Ireland influenza vaccination programme:
all those aged 65 years and over on 31 March 2026,
all those aged 18 years to under 65 years in clinical risk groups,
those in long-stay residential care homes,
pregnant women,
all preschool children aged two to four years on 1 September 2025,
all school-aged children (up to and including year 12),
all children in clinical risk groups aged from 6 months to less than 18 years,
carers,
close contacts of immunocompromised individuals,
high risk poultry and avian animal health workers, and
all health and social care workers
The JCVI keeps its advice on seasonal flu vaccination programmes under regular review and publishes this on an annual basis.
Should their advice relating to eligible cohorts for future programmes change, my Department will consider their updated recommendations at that time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032479%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452413","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452413"}},{"id":"452412","reference":"AQW 32478/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline any representations he has made to the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation on the inclusion of the 50-64 age cohort from the commencement of the winter flu vaccination programme in 2025.","answerText":"Eligible cohorts for the autumn and winter 2025-26 influenza vaccination programme in Northern Ireland are based on the advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). In making its advice, the JCVI conducts a thorough review of the latest data including vaccine effectiveness data from UK influenza disease surveillance to inform expert recommendations.\n\nThe influenza vaccination programme aims to provide direct protection to those who JCVI consider are at higher risk of flu-associated morbidity and mortality, and to reduce transmission to all age groups through the vaccination of children.\n\nWhilst JCVI does not recommend influenza vaccination for those aged 50 to 64 years old on a population basis, people aged 50 to 64 years old would be eligible for vaccination if they belong to any of the following groups:\n\nThose who are in a clinical risk group,\n\nClose contacts of immunocompromised individuals,\n\nCarers,\n\nThose who reside in a residential care home,\n\nHealth and social care workers, and\n\nHigh risk poultry and avian animal health workers\n\nThe JCVI keeps its advice on seasonal flu vaccination programmes under regular review and publishes this on an annual basis.\n\nMy Department will consider any updated advice made by JCVI relating to eligible cohorts for future programmes.","answerHtml":"Eligible cohorts for the autumn and winter 2025-26 influenza vaccination programme in Northern Ireland are based on the advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). In making its advice, the JCVI conducts a thorough review of the latest data including vaccine effectiveness data from UK influenza disease surveillance to inform expert recommendations.
The influenza vaccination programme aims to provide direct protection to those who JCVI consider are at higher risk of flu-associated morbidity and mortality, and to reduce transmission to all age groups through the vaccination of children.
Whilst JCVI does not recommend influenza vaccination for those aged 50 to 64 years old on a population basis, people aged 50 to 64 years old would be eligible for vaccination if they belong to any of the following groups:
Those who are in a clinical risk group,
Close contacts of immunocompromised individuals,
Carers,
Those who reside in a residential care home,
Health and social care workers, and
High risk poultry and avian animal health workers
The JCVI keeps its advice on seasonal flu vaccination programmes under regular review and publishes this on an annual basis.
My Department will consider any updated advice made by JCVI relating to eligible cohorts for future programmes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032478%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452412","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452412"}},{"id":"452411","reference":"AQW 32477/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2026-01-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQO 2406/22-27, whether a value for money assessment has been carried out on the £2,251 spent on commissioning and producing the dossier entitled, The Family Footsteps of JD Vance, in light of reports that the researcher carrying out the project had told his Department that no definitive link could be found.","answerText":"A value for money assessment has not been carried out. This research contributes to my Department’s wider priorities to mark the 250th anniversary of the creation of the United States following the printing of the Declaration of Independence in July 1776. This is an important milestone and presents a significant opportunity to build on the historical and cultural connections that exist between Northern Ireland and the US.\n\nSettlers from Ulster made an invaluable contribution to the creation of the United States, and the semiquincentennial offers the opportunity to highlight key individuals from here such as Charles Thomson, and John Dunlap who played such seminal roles.\n\nMy engagement with key US cultural institutions has already yielded valuable exchanges to date and I am eager to explore further opportunities. I have agreed a Memorandum of Understanding with the America 250 Commission reflecting the commitment to sustaining and expanding these cultural ties.\n\nI was pleased to receive a letter from Vice President JD Vance expressing his appreciation for the book about his family ancestry.","answerHtml":"A value for money assessment has not been carried out. This research contributes to my Department’s wider priorities to mark the 250th anniversary of the creation of the United States following the printing of the Declaration of Independence in July 1776. This is an important milestone and presents a significant opportunity to build on the historical and cultural connections that exist between Northern Ireland and the US.
Settlers from Ulster made an invaluable contribution to the creation of the United States, and the semiquincentennial offers the opportunity to highlight key individuals from here such as Charles Thomson, and John Dunlap who played such seminal roles.
My engagement with key US cultural institutions has already yielded valuable exchanges to date and I am eager to explore further opportunities. I have agreed a Memorandum of Understanding with the America 250 Commission reflecting the commitment to sustaining and expanding these cultural ties.
I was pleased to receive a letter from Vice President JD Vance expressing his appreciation for the book about his family ancestry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032477%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452411","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452411"}},{"id":"452199","reference":"AQW 32358/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-30","answerBy":"2025-10-15","answered":"2025-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans he has to expand training opportunities for healthcare professionals in migraine diagnosis and management.","answerText":"In the context of ongoing capacity constraints within neurology services, the final report of my Department’s Regional Review of Neurology Services proposes a range of recommendations to support the growth and development of the neurology workforce.\n\nThe report recommends significant growth across the Consultant, Nursing and Allied Health Professionals (AHP) workforce. In addition to this growth, the report also recommends the development of a broader skill mix through the development and growth of extended roles such as GPs with Enhanced Roles, Advanced Nurse Practitioners, Consultant AHP roles and Specialty and Specialist Doctors. This will provide increased opportunities for healthcare professionals to develop skills in the diagnosis and management of neurological conditions including migraine.\n\nMore widely, the report recommends increased exposure in Neurology for medical trainees to generate interest in the specialty and maximise recruitment to the Neurology Training Programme. It also proposes a specific recommendation for training in Neurology for non-Neurology hospital specialists and across the wider HSC workforce to support the management of people with neurological conditions including migraine.\n\nMy officials are currently undertaking an analysis of responses to the recent public consultation on the final report of the review to inform next steps. However, I must be clear that implementation of the report’s recommendations will require significant additional funding. While I am committed to carefully considering the need for additional funding, the scale and pace of implementation may have to be adjusted in line with the funding available.","answerHtml":"In the context of ongoing capacity constraints within neurology services, the final report of my Department’s Regional Review of Neurology Services proposes a range of recommendations to support the growth and development of the neurology workforce.
The report recommends significant growth across the Consultant, Nursing and Allied Health Professionals (AHP) workforce. In addition to this growth, the report also recommends the development of a broader skill mix through the development and growth of extended roles such as GPs with Enhanced Roles, Advanced Nurse Practitioners, Consultant AHP roles and Specialty and Specialist Doctors. This will provide increased opportunities for healthcare professionals to develop skills in the diagnosis and management of neurological conditions including migraine.
More widely, the report recommends increased exposure in Neurology for medical trainees to generate interest in the specialty and maximise recruitment to the Neurology Training Programme. It also proposes a specific recommendation for training in Neurology for non-Neurology hospital specialists and across the wider HSC workforce to support the management of people with neurological conditions including migraine.
My officials are currently undertaking an analysis of responses to the recent public consultation on the final report of the review to inform next steps. However, I must be clear that implementation of the report’s recommendations will require significant additional funding. While I am committed to carefully considering the need for additional funding, the scale and pace of implementation may have to be adjusted in line with the funding available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032358%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452199","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452199"}},{"id":"451346","reference":"AQW 32062/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-25","answerBy":"2025-10-10","answered":"2025-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail when he will introduce a mandatory reporting duty for health professionals regarding female genital mutilation, in line with England and Wales.","answerText":"Currently my department has no plans to introduce a mandatory reporting duty for health professionals regarding Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), in line with England and Wales.\n\nHealthcare professionals in Northern Ireland are already bound by both legal and professional obligations to report abuse. FGM is a serious criminal offence. Under section 5 of the Criminal Law Act (Northern Ireland) 1967, any person who knows or believes that a relevant offence has been committed and has information likely to assist in the apprehension, prosecution or conviction of the offender is legally required to disclose that information to police. Failure to do so, without reasonable excuse, constitutes a criminal offence. In addition to this legal duty, health professionals must adhere to safeguarding policies and procedures such as “Multi-agency Practice Guidelines - Female Genital Mutilation” (accessible via https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/multi-agency-practice-guidelines-female-genital-mutilation-health) and the SBNI’s Regional Core Child Protection Policy and Procedures (accessible via https://www.proceduresonline.com/sbni ). These guidelines emphasise the duty to identify, assess, and respond to risk, including making referrals to social services or the PSNI where appropriate.","answerHtml":"Currently my department has no plans to introduce a mandatory reporting duty for health professionals regarding Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), in line with England and Wales.
Healthcare professionals in Northern Ireland are already bound by both legal and professional obligations to report abuse. FGM is a serious criminal offence. Under section 5 of the Criminal Law Act (Northern Ireland) 1967, any person who knows or believes that a relevant offence has been committed and has information likely to assist in the apprehension, prosecution or conviction of the offender is legally required to disclose that information to police. Failure to do so, without reasonable excuse, constitutes a criminal offence. In addition to this legal duty, health professionals must adhere to safeguarding policies and procedures such as “Multi-agency Practice Guidelines - Female Genital Mutilation” (accessible via https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/multi-agency-practice-guidelines-female-genital-mutilation-health) and the SBNI’s Regional Core Child Protection Policy and Procedures (accessible via https://www.proceduresonline.com/sbni ). These guidelines emphasise the duty to identify, assess, and respond to risk, including making referrals to social services or the PSNI where appropriate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032062%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451346","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451346"}},{"id":"451304","reference":"AQO 2482/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-25","answerBy":"2025-10-06","answered":"2025-10-06","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has carried out any assessment of the impact on workforce retention and patient outcomes in relation to the lack of progression from band 5 to band 6 for many registered nurses, compared to colleagues in other healthcare professions.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"I acknowledge that that is key, and I do so with pay on the agenda, which is clearly the headline in the court of public opinion. Everybody should have a reasonable expectation of career progression during their time, and the evidence very much suggests that that is not the case for band 5 nurses."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"Thank you, Minister. I am sure that you will agree that workforce retention is at the heart of safe care. Do you accept that the ongoing delay in the winter preparedness plan will have an impact on staff retention levels? Can you commit to when that plan will be published, given that it was promised in August, then September, and we are now well into October?"},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"I share the Member's frustration with the delay in the winter preparedness plan's being published. The fact of the matter is that I saw a draft, and I wanted some work completed on that. I am very optimistic that it will be published this month, that is, October. I am not sure whether I agree with the Member that the delay is having an impact on staff morale. We are way ahead of where we were last year, but are we in the right position? To manage expectations, we are not simply looking at making everything right this winter. That is an overly ambitious position to take. Some proposals that have come out of the big discussions that took place this year may not see the fruits returned this winter, but it is important that we look at short-, medium- and long-term actions that can be taken to relieve those additional winter pressures."},{"speaker":"Madam Principal Deputy Speaker","text":"Before I call David Honeyford, I remind Members that their supplementary questions need to be related to their primary questions. They cannot be completely different."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202482%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451304","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-10-06&docID=452297#AQO%202482/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451304"}},{"id":"452039","reference":"AQO 2440/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-18","answerBy":"2025-09-29","answered":"2025-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he will take forward recommendations contained within the Independent Review of Education in relation to the creation of jointly managed community schools.","answerText":"My Department has already published a Circular, in place since 2015, setting out the framework for jointly managed schools, and this remains available on the Department’s website.\n\nTo date, no sustainable proposal for a jointly managed solution has been brought forward under that framework.\n\nAs Minister, I have outlined in the published response to the Independent Review of Education, that my Department will develop further guidance and support to facilitate schools from different sectors to become Jointly Managed Community Schools. Such guidance will build upon existing support; and reinforce that any future decisions are informed by evidence, shaped by local need, and centred on the best interests of children and young people. However, it is not an immediate priority, in the context of current demand and other educational challenges.","answerHtml":"My Department has already published a Circular, in place since 2015, setting out the framework for jointly managed schools, and this remains available on the Department’s website.
To date, no sustainable proposal for a jointly managed solution has been brought forward under that framework.
As Minister, I have outlined in the published response to the Independent Review of Education, that my Department will develop further guidance and support to facilitate schools from different sectors to become Jointly Managed Community Schools. Such guidance will build upon existing support; and reinforce that any future decisions are informed by evidence, shaped by local need, and centred on the best interests of children and young people. However, it is not an immediate priority, in the context of current demand and other educational challenges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202440%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452039","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452039"}},{"id":"450959","reference":"AQO 2406/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-11","answerBy":"2025-09-23","answered":"2025-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the steps his Department took to verify the accuracy of genealogical and DNA claims before commissioning and producing the dossier entitled, The Family Footsteps of JD Vance.","answerText":"I asked my officials as part of the wider America250 commemorations to undertake research to explore genealogical links between Vice President JD Vance and his Ulster-Scots ancestry. In his book, Hillbilly Elegy, the Vice President references his Scots Irish heritage.\n\nThe Public Record Office commissioned an experienced independent researcher in the United States to work back through primary sources in the USA.","answerHtml":"I asked my officials as part of the wider America250 commemorations to undertake research to explore genealogical links between Vice President JD Vance and his Ulster-Scots ancestry. In his book, Hillbilly Elegy, the Vice President references his Scots Irish heritage.
The Public Record Office commissioned an experienced independent researcher in the United States to work back through primary sources in the USA.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202406%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450959","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450959"}},{"id":"450370","reference":"AQO 2398/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-11","answerBy":"2025-09-22","answered":"2025-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline any discussions she has had with the Minister of Finance in relation to town centre regeneration.","answerText":"In March 2022 The Executive Office published its Report with recommendations on the High Street Task Force. My Department is responsible for recommendation 8 of the Report: ‘Fair Work on Our High Streets’. This recommendation aligns with my economic priority on Good Jobs.\n\nWork is ongoing within my Department to progress this recommendation and this includes the development of a new Employment Rights Bill, promotion of greater adoption of the Real Living Wage, and collaboration with the Labour Relations Agency to create a Good Employment Charter. This work will have a positive impact across town centres in the North.\n\nMy officials are also working with all eleven Councils to develop Local Economic Partnerships to address economic need on a sub-regional scale.\n\nThe Department of Finance provides support to businesses each year through a number of rate interventions. In response to feedback from business representatives and stakeholders, a strategic review of the Small Business Rate Relief and Non-Domestic Vacant Rating schemes is at an advanced stage.\n\nAs town centre regeneration is a complex issue which cuts across many government departments and other public bodies and agencies, I remain fully committed to working collaboratively with my Executive colleagues to identify and deliver effective, sustainable solutions.to identify and deliver effective, sustainable solutions.","answerHtml":"In March 2022 The Executive Office published its Report with recommendations on the High Street Task Force. My Department is responsible for recommendation 8 of the Report: ‘Fair Work on Our High Streets’. This recommendation aligns with my economic priority on Good Jobs.
Work is ongoing within my Department to progress this recommendation and this includes the development of a new Employment Rights Bill, promotion of greater adoption of the Real Living Wage, and collaboration with the Labour Relations Agency to create a Good Employment Charter. This work will have a positive impact across town centres in the North.
My officials are also working with all eleven Councils to develop Local Economic Partnerships to address economic need on a sub-regional scale.
The Department of Finance provides support to businesses each year through a number of rate interventions. In response to feedback from business representatives and stakeholders, a strategic review of the Small Business Rate Relief and Non-Domestic Vacant Rating schemes is at an advanced stage.
As town centre regeneration is a complex issue which cuts across many government departments and other public bodies and agencies, I remain fully committed to working collaboratively with my Executive colleagues to identify and deliver effective, sustainable solutions.to identify and deliver effective, sustainable solutions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202398%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450370","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450370"}},{"id":"444928","reference":"AQW 29338/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-26","answerBy":"2025-07-11","answered":"2025-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how his Department plans to support mature applicants and those changing career into the social work profession, in order to address persistent staff shortages across the Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"The Department of Health provides an Incentive Scheme for student social workers who are domicile and studying full-time in Northern Ireland. A key objective of the Scheme is to attract more mature students by meeting some of the costs associated with full-time study. Applicants can access a non-means tested allowance of £4,000 for each year of their study. They are also awarded £500 per year to cover expenses whilst on Practice Learning placements. Student Incentive Scheme payments are in addition to any student finance support, which can be applied for separately.\n\nSince 2020 the Department has also been commissioning training places for social workers with the Open University NI. This new route into social work has proved very attractive to more mature and experienced social care workers already in employment with HSC Trusts as it allows them to remain in post while they study. To date, more than one hundred social care workers from HSC Trusts have availed of the Open University route.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health provides an Incentive Scheme for student social workers who are domicile and studying full-time in Northern Ireland. A key objective of the Scheme is to attract more mature students by meeting some of the costs associated with full-time study. Applicants can access a non-means tested allowance of £4,000 for each year of their study. They are also awarded £500 per year to cover expenses whilst on Practice Learning placements. Student Incentive Scheme payments are in addition to any student finance support, which can be applied for separately.
Since 2020 the Department has also been commissioning training places for social workers with the Open University NI. This new route into social work has proved very attractive to more mature and experienced social care workers already in employment with HSC Trusts as it allows them to remain in post while they study. To date, more than one hundred social care workers from HSC Trusts have availed of the Open University route.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029338%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444928","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444928"}},{"id":"444715","reference":"AQW 29235/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-25","answerBy":"2025-07-01","answered":"2025-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when he will publish the findings of the ADHD review.","answerText":"The ADHD needs assessment is not yet complete. The initial estimated completion date was end June 2025 and considerable work has already been progressed. However, due to a desire and demand for further stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis which will ensure a robust evidence base and proposals, it is likely that the work will now be completed by September 2025.\n\nA decision on publication of the needs assessment will be taken once the final report has been received and considered by the Department.","answerHtml":"The ADHD needs assessment is not yet complete. The initial estimated completion date was end June 2025 and considerable work has already been progressed. However, due to a desire and demand for further stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis which will ensure a robust evidence base and proposals, it is likely that the work will now be completed by September 2025.
A decision on publication of the needs assessment will be taken once the final report has been received and considered by the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029235%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444715","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444715"}},{"id":"444714","reference":"AQW 29234/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-25","answerBy":"2025-07-10","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline what plans are in place to increase the number of undergraduate social work training places commissioned by his Department, in light of growing workforce pressures and consistently oversubscribed university programmes.","answerText":"I am pleased to say that the Department has been steadily increasing investment in additional social work student training places since 2019, beginning with 15 places on the newly-approved Degree in Social Work at the Open University. The table below provides an account of how investment in training places has increased from a baseline of 260 in 2018;\n\nQUB\tUU\tOU\tTotal\n2018\t148\t112\t0\t260\n2019\t148\t112\t15\t275\n2020\t148\t112\t15\t275\n2021\t148\t112\t25\t285\n2022\t148\t112\t40\t300\n2023\t148\t112\t45\t305\n2024\t161\t127\t51\t339\n2025\t163\t127\t59\t349\n\nIt is important to note that 349 is the largest number of commissioned social worker training places since the establishment of the NI Degree in Social Work in 2004.","answerHtml":"I am pleased to say that the Department has been steadily increasing investment in additional social work student training places since 2019, beginning with 15 places on the newly-approved Degree in Social Work at the Open University. The table below provides an account of how investment in training places has increased from a baseline of 260 in 2018;
| QUB | UU | OU | Total | |
| 2018 | 148 | 112 | 0 | 260 |
| 2019 | 148 | 112 | 15 | 275 |
| 2020 | 148 | 112 | 15 | 275 |
| 2021 | 148 | 112 | 25 | 285 |
| 2022 | 148 | 112 | 40 | 300 |
| 2023 | 148 | 112 | 45 | 305 |
| 2024 | 161 | 127 | 51 | 339 |
| 2025 | 163 | 127 | 59 | 349 |
It is important to note that 349 is the largest number of commissioned social worker training places since the establishment of the NI Degree in Social Work in 2004.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029234%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444714","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444714"}},{"id":"444713","reference":"AQW 29233/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-25","answerBy":"2025-07-10","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline (i) the current capability of encompass to produce clinical, operational and financial audit reports; and (ii) what additional financial investment or system development would be required to ensure encompass can fully support comprehensive audit and assurance functions across the health service.","answerText":"The encompass system is a key component of Northern Ireland’s digital health transformation, aimed at improving clinical, operational, and financial oversight across the health and social care service. In addition to the data and tools for analytics in support of comprehensive audit within encompass, the Northern Ireland Health Analytics Platform (NIHAP) and the Patient Level Information Costing System (PLICS) continue to develop analytical capabilities, bringing together datasets that are not in encompass, alongside encompass data.\n\nWhile encompass provides a strong foundation for audit, development is ongoing in partnership with HSC Trust, DoH-SPPG and PHA partners to introduce additional clinical Key Performance Indicators and reporting and assurance capabilities. Additional training for staff and managers to support them in the best use of the data and tools available in encompass is ongoing, now all HSC Trusts are live and stabilising.\n\nAdditional investment may be required in future to avail of technological advances and fully leverage AI, this will be subject to additional business case and approval processes.","answerHtml":"The encompass system is a key component of Northern Ireland’s digital health transformation, aimed at improving clinical, operational, and financial oversight across the health and social care service. In addition to the data and tools for analytics in support of comprehensive audit within encompass, the Northern Ireland Health Analytics Platform (NIHAP) and the Patient Level Information Costing System (PLICS) continue to develop analytical capabilities, bringing together datasets that are not in encompass, alongside encompass data.
While encompass provides a strong foundation for audit, development is ongoing in partnership with HSC Trust, DoH-SPPG and PHA partners to introduce additional clinical Key Performance Indicators and reporting and assurance capabilities. Additional training for staff and managers to support them in the best use of the data and tools available in encompass is ongoing, now all HSC Trusts are live and stabilising.
Additional investment may be required in future to avail of technological advances and fully leverage AI, this will be subject to additional business case and approval processes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029233%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444713","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444713"}},{"id":"444712","reference":"AQW 29232/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-25","answerBy":"2025-07-10","answered":"2025-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail whether there are plans to have fully joined-up electronic patient records with an encompass system roll-out across primary care services.","answerText":"The encompass system has now been successfully implemented across all five HSCNI Trusts, supporting secondary, social, and community care services. Further extension of its Electronic Patient Record (EPR) to include primary care, however, presents a number of technical, contractual, financial and information governance challenges.\n\nMost General Practitioners (GPs) operate within HSCNI as independent contractors and retain autonomy over their Practice Management Systems and other software used within their practices. The \"GP System of Choice” (GPSoC) is part of the General Medical Services (GMS) contract with the Department of Health, ensuring that all systems meet NHS accreditation standards while providing Practices with choice. A full roll-out of encompass across multiple primary care providers therefore presents a number of additional challenges including, but not limited to, alignment of technology and data migration/stewardship. In addition, the encompass EPR supplier, Epic, does not currently provide a traditional UK Practice Management System as per GPSoC requirements.\n\nIntegration with existing primary care systems has however been a key consideration for encompass and GP representatives across the region have actively contributed to its design and implementation. All practices now benefit from read-only access to the EPR through a platform called EpicCare Link. This provides a role-appropriate view of the patient record and facilitates GPs to make referrals, order laboratory tests and imaging, and communicate securely with HSC colleagues.\n\nProvision has also been made to develop further urgent and ambulatory care functionality to support Northern Ireland’s primary care Out of Hours (OOHs) service providers. This will provide the integrated technical foundation for new regional care models for urgent and emergency care across HSCNI. Additionally, ongoing configuration of encompass to deliver primary care functionality in the prison health setting within South Eastern HSC Trust may provide valuable insight and learning to inform future decision making. At present however, there are no plans for a wider roll-out of the encompass system across primary care services.","answerHtml":"The encompass system has now been successfully implemented across all five HSCNI Trusts, supporting secondary, social, and community care services. Further extension of its Electronic Patient Record (EPR) to include primary care, however, presents a number of technical, contractual, financial and information governance challenges.
Most General Practitioners (GPs) operate within HSCNI as independent contractors and retain autonomy over their Practice Management Systems and other software used within their practices. The "GP System of Choice” (GPSoC) is part of the General Medical Services (GMS) contract with the Department of Health, ensuring that all systems meet NHS accreditation standards while providing Practices with choice. A full roll-out of encompass across multiple primary care providers therefore presents a number of additional challenges including, but not limited to, alignment of technology and data migration/stewardship. In addition, the encompass EPR supplier, Epic, does not currently provide a traditional UK Practice Management System as per GPSoC requirements.
Integration with existing primary care systems has however been a key consideration for encompass and GP representatives across the region have actively contributed to its design and implementation. All practices now benefit from read-only access to the EPR through a platform called EpicCare Link. This provides a role-appropriate view of the patient record and facilitates GPs to make referrals, order laboratory tests and imaging, and communicate securely with HSC colleagues.
Provision has also been made to develop further urgent and ambulatory care functionality to support Northern Ireland’s primary care Out of Hours (OOHs) service providers. This will provide the integrated technical foundation for new regional care models for urgent and emergency care across HSCNI. Additionally, ongoing configuration of encompass to deliver primary care functionality in the prison health setting within South Eastern HSC Trust may provide valuable insight and learning to inform future decision making. At present however, there are no plans for a wider roll-out of the encompass system across primary care services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029232%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444712","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444712"}},{"id":"444711","reference":"AQW 29231/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-25","answerBy":"2025-07-10","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when he will answer (i) AQW 26608/22-27; and (ii) AQW 27005/22-27.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029231%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444711","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444711"}},{"id":"444107","reference":"AQW 29037/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-20","answerBy":"2025-07-07","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the estimated cost of delivering the gonorrhoea vaccination programme; (ii) the estimated cost to the health service of treating gonorrhoea cases, including cases of antibiotic resistance over the same period; and (iii) the rationale for proceeding with the programme given the reported vaccine efficacy of up to 40 per cent.","answerText":"The estimated cost of delivering the gonorrhoea vaccination programme in Northern Ireland is approximately £100,000.\n\nEstimating the overall cost of treating gonorrhoea and its complications is complex, involving direct medical costs, lost productivity, and long-term healthcare needs. There were 1,208 cases of gonorrhoea recorded at sexual health clinics in Northern Ireland in 2024 which would have incurred costs for testing, treating, and tracking these infections.\n\nUntreated gonorrhoea can lead to serious health complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and an increased risk of HIV transmission, which require more intensive and expensive medical interventions. The rise of drug-resistant strains of gonorrhoea also adds another layer of complexity to disease management and cost estimations. The British Association of Sexual health and HIV has estimated that the cost of treating an antibiotic-resistant gonorrhoea infection is around six times higher than a standard gonorrhoea infection.\n\nMy Department follows the advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), an independent expert scientific advisory committee which advises the UK health departments on vaccination and immunisation matters. JCVI considered the evidence presented in terms of programme cost-effectiveness and likely impact on gonorrhoea epidemiology. Based on this evidence JCVI recommended that a targeted programme should be initiated using the 4CMenB vaccine for the prevention of gonorrhoea in those who are considered to be at greatest risk of infection.\n\nIn Northern Ireland the vaccine will be offered to those considered to be at greatest risk, while they are attending Genito-urinary Medicine (GUM) clinics. Vaccination is expected to help reduce the chance of infection in those vaccinated as well as prevention of onward transmission, which in turn will reduce the use of antibiotics and reduce the potential future burden of antimicrobial resistance.","answerHtml":"The estimated cost of delivering the gonorrhoea vaccination programme in Northern Ireland is approximately £100,000.
Estimating the overall cost of treating gonorrhoea and its complications is complex, involving direct medical costs, lost productivity, and long-term healthcare needs. There were 1,208 cases of gonorrhoea recorded at sexual health clinics in Northern Ireland in 2024 which would have incurred costs for testing, treating, and tracking these infections.
Untreated gonorrhoea can lead to serious health complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and an increased risk of HIV transmission, which require more intensive and expensive medical interventions. The rise of drug-resistant strains of gonorrhoea also adds another layer of complexity to disease management and cost estimations. The British Association of Sexual health and HIV has estimated that the cost of treating an antibiotic-resistant gonorrhoea infection is around six times higher than a standard gonorrhoea infection.
My Department follows the advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), an independent expert scientific advisory committee which advises the UK health departments on vaccination and immunisation matters. JCVI considered the evidence presented in terms of programme cost-effectiveness and likely impact on gonorrhoea epidemiology. Based on this evidence JCVI recommended that a targeted programme should be initiated using the 4CMenB vaccine for the prevention of gonorrhoea in those who are considered to be at greatest risk of infection.
In Northern Ireland the vaccine will be offered to those considered to be at greatest risk, while they are attending Genito-urinary Medicine (GUM) clinics. Vaccination is expected to help reduce the chance of infection in those vaccinated as well as prevention of onward transmission, which in turn will reduce the use of antibiotics and reduce the potential future burden of antimicrobial resistance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029037%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444107","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444107"}},{"id":"444106","reference":"AQW 29036/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-20","answerBy":"2025-07-07","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the professional and administrative staffing resources currently available to support (i) the Chief Medical Officer; (ii) the Chief Nursing Officer; (iii) the Chief Dental Officer; (iv) the Chief Pharmaceutical Officer; (v) the Chief Allied Health Professions Officer; (vi) the Chief Social Work Officer; and (vii) the Chief Scientific Officer, broken down by (a) employment category: (b) full-time permanent; (c) part-time permanent; (d) full-time secondments; (e) part-time secondments; (f) full-time temporary staff; (g) part-time temporary staff; and (h) administrative staff.","answerText":"The information requested is detailed in the table below.\n\nChief Medical Officer2\tChief Dental Officer2\tChief Scientific Advisor2\tChief Pharmaceutical Officer2\tChief Nursing Officer4\tChief Allied Health Professional Officer 4\tChief Social Work Officer\nAdministrative staff\t113\t\t\t16\t19\t3\t12\n\nProfessional staff by Employment Category1\nFull-time permanent\t3\t\t\t7\t\t\t3\nPart-time permanent\t2\t\t\t\t\t\t1\nFull-time secondments\t2\t\t\t\t6\t2\t5\nPart-time secondments\t6\t\t\t\t4\t1\nFull-time temporary staff\nPart-time temporary staff\n\nTable Notes:\n\n1Employment Category has been interpreted as a heading rather than a category in its own right. Administrative Staff have not been broken down by category.\n\n2The Chief Professional Officers (Dental, Scientific, Environmental Health, Pharmaceutical and Psychological Professions) within CMO Group report to CMO.\n\n3 With the exemption of the Chief Pharmaceutical Officer, the Office of CMO provides administrative support across all Chief Professional Officers within CMOG.\n\n4 All Chief Nursing Officer Group staff work under the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), including the Chief Allied Health Professional Officer and the Chief Midwifery Officer, with many staff often supporting all three Chief Professional Officers within their role. It should be noted that staff who provide support to multiple Chief Professional Officers within CNO Group have been recorded against CNO.","answerHtml":"The information requested is detailed in the table below.
| Chief Medical Officer2 | Chief Dental Officer2 | Chief Scientific Advisor2 | Chief Pharmaceutical Officer2 | Chief Nursing Officer4 | Chief Allied Health Professional Officer 4 | Chief Social Work Officer | |
| Administrative staff | 113 | 16 | 19 | 3 | 12 | ||
| Professional staff by Employment Category1 | |||||||
| Full-time permanent | 3 | 7 | 3 | ||||
| Part-time permanent | 2 | 1 | |||||
| Full-time secondments | 2 | 6 | 2 | 5 | |||
| Part-time secondments | 6 | 4 | 1 | ||||
| Full-time temporary staff | |||||||
| Part-time temporary staff |
Table Notes:
1Employment Category has been interpreted as a heading rather than a category in its own right. Administrative Staff have not been broken down by category.
2The Chief Professional Officers (Dental, Scientific, Environmental Health, Pharmaceutical and Psychological Professions) within CMO Group report to CMO.
3 With the exemption of the Chief Pharmaceutical Officer, the Office of CMO provides administrative support across all Chief Professional Officers within CMOG.
4 All Chief Nursing Officer Group staff work under the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), including the Chief Allied Health Professional Officer and the Chief Midwifery Officer, with many staff often supporting all three Chief Professional Officers within their role. It should be noted that staff who provide support to multiple Chief Professional Officers within CNO Group have been recorded against CNO.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029036%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444106","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444106"}},{"id":"444105","reference":"AQW 29035/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-20","answerBy":"2025-07-07","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, given that Northern Ireland remains the only UK region without publicly funded bariatric surgery, whether patients referred elsewhere in the UK for surgery are able to access adequate and safe postoperative care and long-term follow-up within Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Work is currently being taken forward by my Department to develop a Regional Obesity Management service specification. The aim of service is to provide support to individuals who are struggling with obesity or being overweight, with access criteria developed for the service.\n\nIn its first phase, which is expected to commence early 2026, the focus will be on the provision of medical injections for weight loss, with associated lifestyle support to ensure maximum effectiveness.\n\nAs work progresses, there may be further phases to this service development to include other interventions, such as bariatric (weight loss) surgery, including postoperative care and long-term follow-up, subject to funding.\n\nWhilst bariatric surgery is not currently available in NI, it may be possible for patients to be transferred to other parts of the UK for surgery via the Extra Contractual Referral scheme, subject to clinical exceptionality. Under this scheme, patients may be entitled to appropriate post-operative support in line with clinical guidelines.","answerHtml":"Work is currently being taken forward by my Department to develop a Regional Obesity Management service specification. The aim of service is to provide support to individuals who are struggling with obesity or being overweight, with access criteria developed for the service.
In its first phase, which is expected to commence early 2026, the focus will be on the provision of medical injections for weight loss, with associated lifestyle support to ensure maximum effectiveness.
As work progresses, there may be further phases to this service development to include other interventions, such as bariatric (weight loss) surgery, including postoperative care and long-term follow-up, subject to funding.
Whilst bariatric surgery is not currently available in NI, it may be possible for patients to be transferred to other parts of the UK for surgery via the Extra Contractual Referral scheme, subject to clinical exceptionality. Under this scheme, patients may be entitled to appropriate post-operative support in line with clinical guidelines.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029035%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444105","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444105"}},{"id":"444104","reference":"AQW 29034/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-20","answerBy":"2025-07-07","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, given that future phases, including bariatric surgery, will be subject to funding within the Regional Obesity Management Service, to outline what treatment options are currently available for patients who have been clinically recommended for weight loss surgery.","answerText":"Work is currently being taken forward by my Department to develop a Regional Obesity Management service specification.\n\nIn its first phase, which is expected to commence early 2026, the focus will be on the provision of medical injections for weight loss, with associated lifestyle support to ensure maximum effectiveness.\n\nAs work progresses, there may be further phases to this service development to include other interventions, such as bariatric (weight loss) surgery, subject to funding.\n\nWith regard to alternative options for surgical treatment, under the Extra Contractual Referral scheme, it may be possible for an individual to access healthcare assessment and/or surgical treatment outside of NI. This scheme is available for patients who demonstrate clear clinical exceptionality and would require the patient being transferred to a service provider on the UK mainland.\n\nBody contouring procedures are commissioned in Northern Ireland for patients who meet the Effective Use of Resources Policy criteria for treatment.","answerHtml":"Work is currently being taken forward by my Department to develop a Regional Obesity Management service specification.
In its first phase, which is expected to commence early 2026, the focus will be on the provision of medical injections for weight loss, with associated lifestyle support to ensure maximum effectiveness.
As work progresses, there may be further phases to this service development to include other interventions, such as bariatric (weight loss) surgery, subject to funding.
With regard to alternative options for surgical treatment, under the Extra Contractual Referral scheme, it may be possible for an individual to access healthcare assessment and/or surgical treatment outside of NI. This scheme is available for patients who demonstrate clear clinical exceptionality and would require the patient being transferred to a service provider on the UK mainland.
Body contouring procedures are commissioned in Northern Ireland for patients who meet the Effective Use of Resources Policy criteria for treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029034%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444104","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444104"}},{"id":"444103","reference":"AQW 29033/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-20","answerBy":"2025-07-07","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when he will answer (i) AQW 26469/22-27; (ii) AQW 26470/22-27; (iii) AQW 26471/22-27; (iv) AQW 26472/22-27; and (v) AQW 26473/22-27.","answerText":"AQW 26469/22-27 was answered on 24 June 2025\n\nAQW 26470/22-27 was answered on 24 June 2025\n\nAQW 26471/22-27 was answered on 25 June 2025\n\nAQW 26472/22-27 was answered on 3 July 2025\n\nAQW 26473/22-27 was answered on 24 June 2025","answerHtml":"AQW 26469/22-27 was answered on 24 June 2025
AQW 26470/22-27 was answered on 24 June 2025
AQW 26471/22-27 was answered on 25 June 2025
AQW 26472/22-27 was answered on 3 July 2025
AQW 26473/22-27 was answered on 24 June 2025
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029033%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444103","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444103"}},{"id":"443451","reference":"AQW 28747/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-16","answerBy":"2025-07-01","answered":"2025-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in light of the March 2025 NI Audit Office report Health and Social Care Imaging Services, how he is going to ensure increased availability of CT scans, given that timely access to these is crucial for stroke treatments.","answerText":"The recently published Elective Care Framework Implementation and Funding Plan sets out clear proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards and how we will transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in the future.\n\nAs part of the Implementation and Funding Plan, £12m has been secured to expand diagnostic imaging capacity across the region. This not only includes increasing capacity for CT but will include areas such as MRI and ultrasound. The initial focus will be ensuring that scanning sessions, not already commissioned, are recurrently funded Monday to Friday. Further work will then be undertaken to look at evening and weekend working.","answerHtml":"The recently published Elective Care Framework Implementation and Funding Plan sets out clear proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards and how we will transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in the future.
As part of the Implementation and Funding Plan, £12m has been secured to expand diagnostic imaging capacity across the region. This not only includes increasing capacity for CT but will include areas such as MRI and ultrasound. The initial focus will be ensuring that scanning sessions, not already commissioned, are recurrently funded Monday to Friday. Further work will then be undertaken to look at evening and weekend working.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028747%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443451","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443451"}},{"id":"443450","reference":"AQW 28746/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-16","answerBy":"2025-07-01","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following the March 2025 NI Audit Office report Health and Social Care Imaging Services, what sites are being considered for the expansion of imaging services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028746%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443450","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443450"}},{"id":"443449","reference":"AQW 28745/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-16","answerBy":"2025-07-01","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he intends to prioritise imaging services in the capital budget.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028745%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443449","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443449"}},{"id":"442776","reference":"AQW 28493/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-10","answerBy":"2025-06-25","answered":"2025-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many people died of sepsis in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust in each of the last five years, broken down by hospital.","answerText":"The table below was provided by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA).\n\nDeaths, caused by Sepsis, in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, from 2019-2023, by Hospital\nYear\tHospital Name\tDeaths\tICD Code\n2019\tBelfast City\t2\tA41\nMater Infirmorum\t1\tA40\nMater Infirmorum\t2\tA41\nMusgrave Park\t1\tA41\nRoyal Victoria\t8\tA41\n2020\tBelfast City\t2\tA41\nMater Infirmorum\t2\tA41\nMusgrave Park\t0\tN/A\nRoyal Victoria\t4\tA41\n2021\tBelfast City\t0\tN/A\nMater Infirmorum\t2\tA41\nMusgrave Park\t0\tN/A\nRoyal Victoria\t3\tA41\nRoyal Maternity\t1\tA41\n2022\tBelfast City\t0\tN/A\nMater Infirmorum\t4\tA41\nMusgrave Park\t0\tN/A\nRoyal Victoria\t3\tA41\n2023\tBelfast City\t0\tN/A\nMater Infirmorum\t4\tA41\nMusgrave Park\t0\tN/A\nRoyal Victoria\t2\tA41\n\n*Data from 2024 has not been included as the Registrar General Annual Report for 2024 has not been published yet.\n\n**These figures are also based on date of registrations rather than the date of death.\n\n***ICD is shortened which refers to International Classification of Diseases. The codes in the table referring to A40 and A41, are when sepsis is the cause of death, rather than a contributing factor.","answerHtml":"The table below was provided by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA).
| Deaths, caused by Sepsis, in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, from 2019-2023, by Hospital | |||
| Year | Hospital Name | Deaths | ICD Code |
| 2019 | Belfast City | 2 | A41 |
| Mater Infirmorum | 1 | A40 | |
| Mater Infirmorum | 2 | A41 | |
| Musgrave Park | 1 | A41 | |
| Royal Victoria | 8 | A41 | |
| 2020 | Belfast City | 2 | A41 |
| Mater Infirmorum | 2 | A41 | |
| Musgrave Park | 0 | N/A | |
| Royal Victoria | 4 | A41 | |
| 2021 | Belfast City | 0 | N/A |
| Mater Infirmorum | 2 | A41 | |
| Musgrave Park | 0 | N/A | |
| Royal Victoria | 3 | A41 | |
| Royal Maternity | 1 | A41 | |
| 2022 | Belfast City | 0 | N/A |
| Mater Infirmorum | 4 | A41 | |
| Musgrave Park | 0 | N/A | |
| Royal Victoria | 3 | A41 | |
| 2023 | Belfast City | 0 | N/A |
| Mater Infirmorum | 4 | A41 | |
| Musgrave Park | 0 | N/A | |
| Royal Victoria | 2 | A41 |
*Data from 2024 has not been included as the Registrar General Annual Report for 2024 has not been published yet.
**These figures are also based on date of registrations rather than the date of death.
***ICD is shortened which refers to International Classification of Diseases. The codes in the table referring to A40 and A41, are when sepsis is the cause of death, rather than a contributing factor.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028493%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442776","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442776"}},{"id":"442155","reference":"AQO 2168/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-05","answerBy":"2025-06-17","answered":"2025-06-17","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether a final decision has been made in relation to remedial works to address the contamination issues in the water treatment system at the new Maternity Hospital.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt (The Minister of Health)","text":"The Belfast Trust recently completed the multidisciplinary review of the options for the remediation works required to address the water safety issues in the new maternity hospital at the Royal Victoria site. The review has been in the form of multidisciplinary risk assessment workshops held in April and May. The intent was to determine the route forward for the building and the level of remediation works required to give assurance of safety. A recommendation on the option to be implemented was discussed and accepted at trust board level on 5 June. The trust provided the Department with a briefing document only last Thursday. It outlines the proposed remediation works to be implemented, and it includes a programme for the remedial works and estimated costs for same. My officials and I are reviewing the document. I have already met the trust's director of strategic development to try to satisfy myself that everything possible is being undertaken by the trust to allow the maternity facility to become operational as soon as possible while ensuring patient safety. There are a number of issues with the report and proposed way forward on which my officials and I have tasked the trust to come forward with further information. I can understand why there is a genuine desire from the Committee to receive the report, and, once the next steps are determined — hopefully that will be very soon — I assure members that the document will be shared and officials made available to brief the Committee as required. The Belfast Trust has assured me that the safety of patients remains its highest priority in addressing the water safety issues in the new hospital. I support that position. In that regard, I can advise that the trust has confirmed that it will establish a robust flushing, management and testing regime for the water systems during and after the remediation works. The management of the regime to ensure patient safety will need to be closely monitored by a dedicated trust project water safety group."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. It has been a long-developing issue. I am glad to hear that the Minister will share that report with the Committee. The project is 10 years behind. The cost is now expected to be in excess of £97 million, and with this work, I expect, there will be a price tag as well. What is that price tag, and does the Minister know when mothers will be able to have their babies in the Royal maternity hospital."},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"First, no decision has been endorsed by me. There were three options, and I know that the trust is going for option b. That appears to have a timeline — I am sorry to say this — of 28 months. That is another two years and a bit and several million pounds. As I said, I have met the relevant official. I have not accepted this. I cannot gild this lily; I cannot soften this. None of the three options can be guaranteed to solve the problem. The third option is to rip out all the water works and start again, and that will take even longer. I have asked that we find an external expert because, when the multidisciplinary team looked at the three options, the majority went for option b or 2 but not everybody. Therefore, I would like an external view about whether option b or 2 is the right one, whether it really should take 28 months and whether there are parts of the hospital that we can start using while we fix the water. The area of real danger, as you know, is the neonatal unit, where the most vulnerable children are. I also feel that I need to better understand from those who were against option b why that was the case. I am far from finished on this. There is nothing good to say, except that it is a magnificent facility that is not in use."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"I must say that everyone in the Chamber shares your frustration, Minister. You say that it will be another 28 months, and it is already 15 months since the handover of that building, so we share your frustration. I will turn your attention to another issue relating to the Belfast Trust, Minister. Can you explain to the House how significant the fire safety concerns are that the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service has about the Royal Victoria Hospital? When was the trust first advised of the concerns? Is the Fire and Rescue Service pursuing an enforcement notice in relation to this?"},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"As the Member said, this is a different issue. A fire safety audit was carried out at the Royal Victoria Hospital on 4 June by personnel from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service under the Fire and Rescue Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006. The audit found a substantial risk at wards 4 and 7, with a score rating that falls within the enforcement notice category. A follow-up meeting took place on 11 June to assist the Belfast Trust in making the necessary improvements. Another meeting is arranged for this afternoon. I appreciate the pragmatic approach that the Fire and Rescue Service takes to working with responsible persons at audited premises to mitigate risk. In this case, the Fire and Rescue Service inspection officers continue to work with Belfast Trust officials. However, I accept the point that it does nothing to restore public and political confidence in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust."},{"speaker":"Mr Chambers","text":"Minister, are you satisfied that works are progressing well with the neighbouring capital project on the Royal site, which is the new children's hospital?"},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"I am satisfied with the verbal assurance that I got as recently as yesterday that work is progressing on the children's hospital on time and to budget. That said, we are in the foothills of a long building works campaign. I am happy to report that the Falls Road has not collapsed, and I do not say that flippantly. Work has to be carried out in the first instance to ensure that the road is shored up, and that appears to have been done successfully."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dillon","text":"A Cheann Comhairle,"},{"speaker":"","text":"I apologise for not being in my place yesterday. I thought that my question had been withdrawn. Minister, will the cost of the works at the new maternity hospital be borne by the public purse, or will it be possible to get the money back from the contractor in any way? If you do not know, when will we know?"},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"I understand that the Member is curious about that, as, indeed, am I. As I understand it, the trust is still trying to figure out exactly what has gone wrong with the pipework. We know that there was pseudomonas bacteria in the pipework. That was the main issue, but, since then, I understand that some valves that have seals are, perhaps, defective. There is now a question about where that responsibility lies. The matter is commercially sensitive. I do not want to not be open and transparent, but I do not want to say anything in the Chamber that might prejudice anything that, the Belfast Trust feels, it needs to do in liaising with the contractors."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202168%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442155","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-06-17&docID=442840#AQO%202168/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442155"}},{"id":"441799","reference":"AQW 28053/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-03","answerBy":"2025-06-18","answered":"2025-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline (i) what funding is required to deliver the Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan 2030; (ii) what business cases including transformational bids, he has submitted to secure this funding; and (iii) the timescale for delivery of this Plan.","answerText":"The Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan brings together four existing inter-related programmes of work led by the Department, to support the delivery of six strategic priorities up to 2030. Those four work programmes relate to: Service Development; Legislative Reform; Workforce; and ePharmacy.\n\nSome aspects of these work programmes are already in train and funded, however full delivery of the strategic vision is subject to additional funding and implementation will be phased over the lifetime of the strategy. Additional requirements of up to £15m have been identified which, if secured, will support the development of community pharmacy services in line with the commissioning priorities outlined in the 2025-28 commissioning plan for community pharmacy services, which the Department and Community Pharmacy NI are currently working on.\n\nIn addition, the Department’s ePharmacy Digital Reform Programme for Primary Care comprises of four related projects:\n\nGo Pharmacy NI;\n\nElectronic Transmission of Prescriptions;\n\nElectronic Prescribing Eligibility System (EPES) replacement; and\n\nNI Drug Tariff Masterfile.\n\nThe indicative timescale for delivery of the ePharmacy programme is by September 2032, subject to funding, and work is currently being undertaken to develop the relevant business cases. An outline business case for the Go Pharmacy project is expected to be completed in July 2025.","answerHtml":"The Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan brings together four existing inter-related programmes of work led by the Department, to support the delivery of six strategic priorities up to 2030. Those four work programmes relate to: Service Development; Legislative Reform; Workforce; and ePharmacy.
Some aspects of these work programmes are already in train and funded, however full delivery of the strategic vision is subject to additional funding and implementation will be phased over the lifetime of the strategy. Additional requirements of up to £15m have been identified which, if secured, will support the development of community pharmacy services in line with the commissioning priorities outlined in the 2025-28 commissioning plan for community pharmacy services, which the Department and Community Pharmacy NI are currently working on.
In addition, the Department’s ePharmacy Digital Reform Programme for Primary Care comprises of four related projects:
Go Pharmacy NI;
Electronic Transmission of Prescriptions;
Electronic Prescribing Eligibility System (EPES) replacement; and
NI Drug Tariff Masterfile.
The indicative timescale for delivery of the ePharmacy programme is by September 2032, subject to funding, and work is currently being undertaken to develop the relevant business cases. An outline business case for the Go Pharmacy project is expected to be completed in July 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028053%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441799","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441799"}},{"id":"439495","reference":"AQW 27101/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-14","answerBy":"2025-05-30","answered":"2025-05-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline what procedures are followed for the disposal or repurposing of decommissioned diagnostic scanners.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts have waste and asset management policies and procedures in place so that assets no longer required are disposed of in a safe and appropriate manner in accordance with the relevant legislation and best practice.\n\nDiagnostic scanners may be deemed no longer required if surplus to requirements, obsolete, beyond economic repair or at the end of their useful life. If the scanner is beyond repair or use, it must be disposed of in compliance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts have waste and asset management policies and procedures in place so that assets no longer required are disposed of in a safe and appropriate manner in accordance with the relevant legislation and best practice.
Diagnostic scanners may be deemed no longer required if surplus to requirements, obsolete, beyond economic repair or at the end of their useful life. If the scanner is beyond repair or use, it must be disposed of in compliance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027101%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439495","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439495"}},{"id":"439494","reference":"AQW 27100/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-14","answerBy":"2025-05-30","answered":"2025-05-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service’s Community Resuscitation Strategy; and (iI) whether a review is currently being undertaken to inform the development of a successor strategy.","answerText":"The Community Resuscitation Strategy was launched in July 2014 by the then Minister for Health, Edwin Poots, with the aim to increase the survival rate for those who suffer an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, to the highest level that can be achieved across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) is leading on the successful implementation of the Community Resuscitation Strategy and is funded to provide a supporting role in advising organisations, businesses, and individuals regarding siting of defibrillators and best practice in the use of defibrillators. Public engagement and awareness sessions on CPR and use of AEDs in communities, continue to increase in number year on year. Community resuscitation strategy groups within individual council areas, develop specific objectives and action plans to improve survivability from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, with the aid of local resources.\n\nNIAS has worked with the British Heart Foundation to develop ‘The Circuit’ (https://www.thecircuit.uk/) which is a national online defibrillator network linking to every ambulance service in the UK. NIAS can readily provide information on AEDs registered on ‘The Circuit’ to 999 callers, should they require access.\n\nThere are currently 3,888 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) available to the public and registered through NIAS on ‘The Circuit’.\n\nNIAS Community Resuscitation Team continue to be involved in activities within communities which will strengthen the chain of survival, and NIAS have installed 35 publicly accessible defibrillators outside NIAS premises across the province.\n\nThere are currently 426 Community First Responder (CFR) volunteers and 24 schemes in NI. NI also has approximately 2,500 members of the public who have a minimum of Basic Life Support training and have registered to be a GoodSAM responder. Since members of the public went live on GoodSAM in February 2023 over 297 people have accepted a GoodSAM alert to a cardiac arrest.","answerHtml":"The Community Resuscitation Strategy was launched in July 2014 by the then Minister for Health, Edwin Poots, with the aim to increase the survival rate for those who suffer an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, to the highest level that can be achieved across Northern Ireland.
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) is leading on the successful implementation of the Community Resuscitation Strategy and is funded to provide a supporting role in advising organisations, businesses, and individuals regarding siting of defibrillators and best practice in the use of defibrillators. Public engagement and awareness sessions on CPR and use of AEDs in communities, continue to increase in number year on year. Community resuscitation strategy groups within individual council areas, develop specific objectives and action plans to improve survivability from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, with the aid of local resources.
NIAS has worked with the British Heart Foundation to develop ‘The Circuit’ (https://www.thecircuit.uk/) which is a national online defibrillator network linking to every ambulance service in the UK. NIAS can readily provide information on AEDs registered on ‘The Circuit’ to 999 callers, should they require access.
There are currently 3,888 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) available to the public and registered through NIAS on ‘The Circuit’.
NIAS Community Resuscitation Team continue to be involved in activities within communities which will strengthen the chain of survival, and NIAS have installed 35 publicly accessible defibrillators outside NIAS premises across the province.
There are currently 426 Community First Responder (CFR) volunteers and 24 schemes in NI. NI also has approximately 2,500 members of the public who have a minimum of Basic Life Support training and have registered to be a GoodSAM responder. Since members of the public went live on GoodSAM in February 2023 over 297 people have accepted a GoodSAM alert to a cardiac arrest.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027100%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439494","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439494"}},{"id":"439313","reference":"AQW 27005/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether patients will be able to access treatment under the Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme from independent sector providers based within Northern Ireland.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027005%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439313","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439313"}},{"id":"439312","reference":"AQW 27004/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","answered":"2025-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline his Department's policies and protocols regarding the decommissioning of diagnostic imaging scanners, including MRI, CT, X-ray, and ultrasound equipment.","answerText":"My Department established the Regional Medical Imaging Board to oversee the recommendations arising from the Strategic Framework for Imaging Services in Health and Social Care, 2018. The Board monitors the use, configuration and age of imaging equipment across all imaging services in Health and Social Care and has developed a system for prioritising the replacement of equipment and the procurement of additional equipment in line with population needs and available budget.\n\nDecommissioning of aged equipment is undertaken by each Health and Social Trust in accordance with their local governance processes, assisted by expert advice from medical physics.","answerHtml":"My Department established the Regional Medical Imaging Board to oversee the recommendations arising from the Strategic Framework for Imaging Services in Health and Social Care, 2018. The Board monitors the use, configuration and age of imaging equipment across all imaging services in Health and Social Care and has developed a system for prioritising the replacement of equipment and the procurement of additional equipment in line with population needs and available budget.
Decommissioning of aged equipment is undertaken by each Health and Social Trust in accordance with their local governance processes, assisted by expert advice from medical physics.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027004%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439312","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439312"}},{"id":"439311","reference":"AQW 27003/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","answered":"2025-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how many diagnostic imaging scanners, including (i) MRI; (ii) CT; (iii) x-ray; and (iv) ultrasound equipment , have been decommissioned in each of the last ten years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The following figures (provided by each HSC Trust) detail the numbers of diagnostic scanners which have been decommissioned in each year since 2015:\n\nTRUST / YEAR\t2015\t2016\t2017\t2018\t2019\t2020\t2021\t2022\t2023\t2024\t2025\tTOTAL\nBHSCT\nMRI\t-\t-\t-\t-\t2\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t2\nCT\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t2\t1\t1\t4\nX-Ray\t1\t-\t-\t1\t-\t1\t2\t3\t5\t1\t-\t14\nUltrasound\t-\t-\t-\t-\t3\t1\t6\t-\t-\t2\t1\t13\nSEHSCT\nMRI\t-\t-\t-\t-\t1\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t1\nCT\t1\t-\t1\t2\t1\t-\t-\t1\t-\t-\t-\t6\nX-Ray\t-\t-\t3\t-\t2\t5\t1\t9\t6\t1\t-\t27\nUltrasound\t-\t-\t1\t8\t2\t3\t2\t1\t-\t5\t-\t22\nNHSCT\nMRI\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\nCT\t-\t-\t-\t-\t2\t-\t-\t1\t-\t1\t-\t4\nX-Ray\t-\t*2\t-\t-\t-\t-\t1\t-\t9\t6\t2\t20\nUltrasound\t-\t-\t-\t-\t2\t7\t1\t-\t-\t-\t-\t10\nWHSCT\nMRI\t1\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t1\nCT\t-\t1\t1\t-\t-\t-\t2\t1\t-\t-\t-\t5\nX-Ray\t1\t1\t-\t-\t1\t1\t3\t5 (*1)\t2\t4\t5\t23\nUltrasound\t-\t5\t-\t4\t1\t2\t5\t-\t4\t4\t1\t26\nSHSCT\nMRI\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t1\t-\t1\nCT\t-\t-\t-\t-\t1\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t1\nX-Ray\t2\t\t\t\t\t\t\t1\t7\t2\t1\t13\nUltrasound\t\t1\t\t1\t8\t\t\t1\t1\t3\t\t15\n\n*where Trusts have indicated that equipment was decommissioned and not replaced.","answerHtml":"The following figures (provided by each HSC Trust) detail the numbers of diagnostic scanners which have been decommissioned in each year since 2015:
| TRUST / YEAR | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | TOTAL |
| BHSCT | ||||||||||||
| MRI | - | - | - | - | 2 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 2 |
| CT | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 2 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
| X-Ray | 1 | - | - | 1 | - | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 1 | - | 14 |
| Ultrasound | - | - | - | - | 3 | 1 | 6 | - | - | 2 | 1 | 13 |
| SEHSCT | ||||||||||||
| MRI | - | - | - | - | 1 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 1 |
| CT | 1 | - | 1 | 2 | 1 | - | - | 1 | - | - | - | 6 |
| X-Ray | - | - | 3 | - | 2 | 5 | 1 | 9 | 6 | 1 | - | 27 |
| Ultrasound | - | - | 1 | 8 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 1 | - | 5 | - | 22 |
| NHSCT | ||||||||||||
| MRI | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | |
| CT | - | - | - | - | 2 | - | - | 1 | - | 1 | - | 4 |
| X-Ray | - | *2 | - | - | - | - | 1 | - | 9 | 6 | 2 | 20 |
| Ultrasound | - | - | - | - | 2 | 7 | 1 | - | - | - | - | 10 |
| WHSCT | ||||||||||||
| MRI | 1 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 1 |
| CT | - | 1 | 1 | - | - | - | 2 | 1 | - | - | - | 5 |
| X-Ray | 1 | 1 | - | - | 1 | 1 | 3 | 5 (*1) | 2 | 4 | 5 | 23 |
| Ultrasound | - | 5 | - | 4 | 1 | 2 | 5 | - | 4 | 4 | 1 | 26 |
| SHSCT | ||||||||||||
| MRI | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 1 | - | 1 |
| CT | - | - | - | - | 1 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 1 |
| X-Ray | 2 | 1 | 7 | 2 | 1 | 13 | ||||||
| Ultrasound | 1 | 1 | 8 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 15 |
*where Trusts have indicated that equipment was decommissioned and not replaced.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027003%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439311","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439311"}},{"id":"439310","reference":"AQW 27002/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","answered":"2025-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline (i) whether diagnostic scanners are routinely replaced following decommissioning or obsolescence; and (ii) what mechanisms are in place to ensure continuity of service.","answerText":"I can confirm that the vast majority of scanners are routinely replaced following decommissioning or obsolescence and would refer you to my response to AQW 27003/22-27 which includes full breakdown of various scanners replaced within each Health and Social Care Trust over the last 10 years.\n\nContinuity of service is managed by each Trust in accordance with local governance processes. Items of equipment which are forecast to affect service continuity can be brought to the attention of the Regional Medical Imaging Board’s Capital Equipment Sub-group, which has a system in place for prioritising the replacement of equipment and the procurement of additional equipment in line with population needs and available budget.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that the vast majority of scanners are routinely replaced following decommissioning or obsolescence and would refer you to my response to AQW 27003/22-27 which includes full breakdown of various scanners replaced within each Health and Social Care Trust over the last 10 years.
Continuity of service is managed by each Trust in accordance with local governance processes. Items of equipment which are forecast to affect service continuity can be brought to the attention of the Regional Medical Imaging Board’s Capital Equipment Sub-group, which has a system in place for prioritising the replacement of equipment and the procurement of additional equipment in line with population needs and available budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027002%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439310","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439310"}},{"id":"439309","reference":"AQW 27001/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","answered":"2025-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has explored options to extend the operational life of diagnostic scanners beyond their standard lifespan where safe and clinically appropriate, in order to boost provision of service.","answerText":"My Department’s Regional Medical Imaging Board monitors the use, configuration and age of all imaging equipment across imaging services in Health and Social Care and has developed a system for prioritising the replacement of equipment and the procurement of additional equipment in line with population needs and available budget. Each Trust manages aged equipment in accordance with its local governance processes and is assisted by expert advice from medical physics colleagues.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Regional Medical Imaging Board monitors the use, configuration and age of all imaging equipment across imaging services in Health and Social Care and has developed a system for prioritising the replacement of equipment and the procurement of additional equipment in line with population needs and available budget. Each Trust manages aged equipment in accordance with its local governance processes and is assisted by expert advice from medical physics colleagues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027001%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439309","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439309"}},{"id":"438394","reference":"AQW 26609/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-06","answerBy":"2025-05-21","answered":"2025-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) when he will publish a new tobacco strategy; and (ii) what measures this will include to support people to stop smoking, particularly in deprived areas.","answerText":"Preliminary work on a new Tobacco Control Strategy for Northern Ireland had commenced in late 2023 but was paused to allow the Department to focus on supporting the inclusion of Northern Ireland measures in the UK-wide Tobacco and Vapes Bill which is currently progressing through Parliament. This Bill will be a landmark step in creating a smoke-free UK and a key action in helping to reduce health inequalities.\n\nThere remain concerning socio-economic inequalities in smoking prevalence across a range of indicators including smoking in pregnancy and exposure to second-hand smoke. Inequalities in smoking prevalence also persist amongst other groups, particularly those with mental ill-health. These issues, amongst others, will also be considered as part of the new Tobacco Control Strategy for Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Department will continue to focus on supporting the NI measures in the Bill and their implementation, including scoping and bringing forward further regulations under the powers in the Bill. This will be a substantial programme of work. Officials will then identify the work needed to support this new more comprehensive legislative framework and address the continuing challenges of creating a smokefree Northern Ireland. This will be the focus of a new tobacco control strategy for NI.\n\nMeanwhile, the current Tobacco Control Strategy will continue to provide strategic direction.","answerHtml":"Preliminary work on a new Tobacco Control Strategy for Northern Ireland had commenced in late 2023 but was paused to allow the Department to focus on supporting the inclusion of Northern Ireland measures in the UK-wide Tobacco and Vapes Bill which is currently progressing through Parliament. This Bill will be a landmark step in creating a smoke-free UK and a key action in helping to reduce health inequalities.
There remain concerning socio-economic inequalities in smoking prevalence across a range of indicators including smoking in pregnancy and exposure to second-hand smoke. Inequalities in smoking prevalence also persist amongst other groups, particularly those with mental ill-health. These issues, amongst others, will also be considered as part of the new Tobacco Control Strategy for Northern Ireland.
The Department will continue to focus on supporting the NI measures in the Bill and their implementation, including scoping and bringing forward further regulations under the powers in the Bill. This will be a substantial programme of work. Officials will then identify the work needed to support this new more comprehensive legislative framework and address the continuing challenges of creating a smokefree Northern Ireland. This will be the focus of a new tobacco control strategy for NI.
Meanwhile, the current Tobacco Control Strategy will continue to provide strategic direction.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026609%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438394","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438394"}},{"id":"438393","reference":"AQW 26608/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-06","answerBy":"2025-05-21","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when he expects scoping work on a lung screening programme to be completed and published.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026608%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438393","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438393"}},{"id":"438392","reference":"AQW 26607/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-06","answerBy":"2025-05-21","answered":"2025-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when he will publish a strategy for addressing obesity.","answerText":"My Department’s ‘A Fitter Future for All,’ obesity prevention strategy for Northern Ireland, remains extant, with partners and stakeholders continuing to deliver against the set of 52 outcomes agreed in 2019/2020.\n\nSince the close of the consultation on the ‘Healthy Futures’ Obesity Strategic Framework in 2024, my Department has been working through the detail of the responses and looking at the wider research and evidence base. In addition, my Department has been engaging with colleagues across the UK and Ireland to consider emerging developments for those living with overweight and obesity.\n\nWork on finalising the consultation response report is complete, and the consultation report will be published shortly. Work to finalise the ‘Healthy Futures’ obesity strategic framework is now well underway, with an aim to publish this in 2025, subject to agreement and the availability of resources.","answerHtml":"My Department’s ‘A Fitter Future for All,’ obesity prevention strategy for Northern Ireland, remains extant, with partners and stakeholders continuing to deliver against the set of 52 outcomes agreed in 2019/2020.
Since the close of the consultation on the ‘Healthy Futures’ Obesity Strategic Framework in 2024, my Department has been working through the detail of the responses and looking at the wider research and evidence base. In addition, my Department has been engaging with colleagues across the UK and Ireland to consider emerging developments for those living with overweight and obesity.
Work on finalising the consultation response report is complete, and the consultation report will be published shortly. Work to finalise the ‘Healthy Futures’ obesity strategic framework is now well underway, with an aim to publish this in 2025, subject to agreement and the availability of resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026607%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438392","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438392"}},{"id":"438391","reference":"AQW 26606/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-06","answerBy":"2025-05-21","answered":"2025-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the timeline for introducing Minimum Unit Pricing for alcohol.","answerText":"As I have made clear, I believe that Minimum Unit Pricing for Alcohol could be a key mechanism to reduce alcohol-related harm in Northern Ireland and to address the health inequalities that exist in this area.\n\nI previously indicated that I hoped to bring legislation to the Assembly in the final year of the mandate, however this is predicated on obtaining Executive agreement. I continue to await formal confirmation of the position of all my Executive colleagues.","answerHtml":"As I have made clear, I believe that Minimum Unit Pricing for Alcohol could be a key mechanism to reduce alcohol-related harm in Northern Ireland and to address the health inequalities that exist in this area.
I previously indicated that I hoped to bring legislation to the Assembly in the final year of the mandate, however this is predicated on obtaining Executive agreement. I continue to await formal confirmation of the position of all my Executive colleagues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026606%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438391","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438391"}},{"id":"438390","reference":"AQW 26605/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-06","answerBy":"2025-05-21","answered":"2025-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps he is taking to reduce cancer inequalities, in light of the Cancer Research UK February 2025 report entitled UK Cancer Mortality by Deprivation that found cancer death rates are around 45 per cent higher for people living in the most deprived areas of Northern Ireland compared to the least deprived with around 630 extra cancer deaths in Northern Ireland each year linked to socioeconomic inequality.","answerText":"I welcome the findings in the Cancer Research UK (CRUK) report entitled Cancer in the UK 2025: Socioeconomic deprivation. These findings reinforce my commitment to tackle health inequalities.\n\nThe report, quite rightly, identifies a number of factors such as increased obesity and smoking incidence, lower participation in screening programmes, and reduced awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancer as the leading cause of increased incidence and mortality and poorer outcomes for cancer patients.\n\nOfficials in my Department are working across departmental boundaries and with local government and community and voluntary sector partners to ensure that those in the most deprived communities can access health and social care services effectively. This approach is a key step to reducing health inequalities and improving overall the health and wellbeing of people across these deprived communities.\n\nMy Department’s “Making Life Better” strategy provides an overarching strategic framework for public health through which the Northern Ireland Executive committed to creating the conditions for individuals, families and communities to take greater control over their lives and be enabled to lead healthy lives.\n\nIn addition, the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy that launched in March 2022 has a range of strategic themes and high-level actions that will deal with cancer inequalities through service transformation and service optimisation to ensure that there is both equity of access to cancer services and improved patient outcomes.","answerHtml":"I welcome the findings in the Cancer Research UK (CRUK) report entitled Cancer in the UK 2025: Socioeconomic deprivation. These findings reinforce my commitment to tackle health inequalities.
The report, quite rightly, identifies a number of factors such as increased obesity and smoking incidence, lower participation in screening programmes, and reduced awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancer as the leading cause of increased incidence and mortality and poorer outcomes for cancer patients.
Officials in my Department are working across departmental boundaries and with local government and community and voluntary sector partners to ensure that those in the most deprived communities can access health and social care services effectively. This approach is a key step to reducing health inequalities and improving overall the health and wellbeing of people across these deprived communities.
My Department’s “Making Life Better” strategy provides an overarching strategic framework for public health through which the Northern Ireland Executive committed to creating the conditions for individuals, families and communities to take greater control over their lives and be enabled to lead healthy lives.
In addition, the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy that launched in March 2022 has a range of strategic themes and high-level actions that will deal with cancer inequalities through service transformation and service optimisation to ensure that there is both equity of access to cancer services and improved patient outcomes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026605%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438390","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438390"}},{"id":"438123","reference":"AQW 26473/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-19","answered":"2025-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how his Department ensures that timely financial support is available when it is most needed for children and young people with cancer and their families, in light of Young Lives vs Cancer's The Cost of Waiting research, which states that 57 per cent of these patients in Northern Ireland begin facing extra expenses within the first month of diagnosis.","answerText":"Depending on individual circumstances families facing a cancer diagnosis may be able to access a range of support in the social security system.\n\nWhere a child or young person has been diagnosed with a terminal condition and has a life expectancy of 12 months or less, access to immediate financial support is provided for in Disability Living Allowance for children or Personal Independence Payment respectively.\n\nMy Department’s Make the Call Service can carry out an entitlement check to ensure a person is receiving all the benefits, supports and services available to them. It can be contacted via Freephone number 0800 232 1271 or by emailing makethecall@dfcni.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"Depending on individual circumstances families facing a cancer diagnosis may be able to access a range of support in the social security system.
Where a child or young person has been diagnosed with a terminal condition and has a life expectancy of 12 months or less, access to immediate financial support is provided for in Disability Living Allowance for children or Personal Independence Payment respectively.
My Department’s Make the Call Service can carry out an entitlement check to ensure a person is receiving all the benefits, supports and services available to them. It can be contacted via Freephone number 0800 232 1271 or by emailing makethecall@dfcni.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026473%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438123"}},{"id":"438122","reference":"AQW 26472/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-19","answered":"2025-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any consideration given to streamlining the application process for disability benefits and removing the need for a qualifying period for those whose conditions and their impacts can be evidenced using medical evidence to determine eligibility, such as children and young people with cancer.","answerText":"I refer the member to the answer I provided to AQW 25867/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the member to the answer I provided to AQW 25867/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026472%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438122"}},{"id":"438121","reference":"AQW 26471/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-19","answered":"2025-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any plans in place to improve application processes for disability benefits in order to reduce stress and administrative burden on children and young people with cancer and their families, who are already experiencing significant stress and disruption following their diagnosis.","answerText":"Legislation dictates that an application for a disability benefit must be made in the format and manner prescribed. However, my Department has engaged with stakeholders to ensure that families with a child or young person who has had a cancer diagnosis can access the support they need.\n\nAs a result, measures have been put in place to assist families through the application process including establishing escalation points for the Royal Victoria Hospital Children's Oncology and Haematology Social Work Team and other support organisations, to fast-track new claims where there is an urgent need. Where required, the Department’s Make the Call service can also visit families to provide benefit advice, assistance with application form completion and signposting to other available support.","answerHtml":"Legislation dictates that an application for a disability benefit must be made in the format and manner prescribed. However, my Department has engaged with stakeholders to ensure that families with a child or young person who has had a cancer diagnosis can access the support they need.
As a result, measures have been put in place to assist families through the application process including establishing escalation points for the Royal Victoria Hospital Children's Oncology and Haematology Social Work Team and other support organisations, to fast-track new claims where there is an urgent need. Where required, the Department’s Make the Call service can also visit families to provide benefit advice, assistance with application form completion and signposting to other available support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026471%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438121"}},{"id":"438120","reference":"AQW 26470/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-19","answered":"2025-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any assessment made of the impact of debt on households with a child or young person with cancer, in light of Young Lives vs Cancer's The Cost of Waiting research, which states that 3 in 5 of these affected households in Northern Ireland must borrow money whilst waiting for disability benefits.","answerText":"No such assessment has been undertaken.","answerHtml":"No such assessment has been undertaken.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026470%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438120"}},{"id":"438119","reference":"AQW 26469/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-19","answered":"2025-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any engagement his Department has had with Young Lives vs Cancer and similar organisations in relation to reforms to the disability benefits system to better support children and young people with cancer.","answerText":"My Department has previously engaged with the B-positive charity and more recently has accepted an invitation to meet with Young Lives vs Cancer to discuss its recently published research report ‘The Cost of Waiting.’","answerHtml":"My Department has previously engaged with the B-positive charity and more recently has accepted an invitation to meet with Young Lives vs Cancer to discuss its recently published research report ‘The Cost of Waiting.’
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026469%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438119","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438119"}},{"id":"438208","reference":"AQO 1976/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-13","answered":"2025-05-13","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on the development of the North South Interconnector.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"The North/South interconnector project is essential in order to deliver an affordable and renewable energy system across the island. It is estimated that the cost to local electricity consumers due to the absence of the interconnector is £19 million per year. The interconnector will enable an additional 900 MW of clean electricity into the North’s transmission system and reduce levels of \"dispatch down\". Reliance on a single North/South interconnector means that the North’s power system has a single point of failure. A second interconnector will strengthen security of supply. I have been consistent in my position that the North/South interconnector should be undergrounded. In the North, on 14 September 2020, the then Infrastructure Minister granted planning permission for the interconnector. The Northern section is expected to be delivered by 2028. The completion date for the Southern section has been revised from 2028 to 2031. EirGrid, the system operator in the South, has advised that that is due to delays in processing land access and actual construction time. Last week, I met Minister O’Brien, the Minister for Environment, Climate and Energy in the South, to discuss the issue. During that meeting, I set out my party’s position that the interconnector should be undergrounded."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for that answer. What is the Minister's assessment of the delay to the interconnector, with reference to planning objections from the Republic of Ireland?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"As I said in my initial answer, EirGrid has indicated that there are delays in processing land access and actual construction time. We have engaged with the Department in the South to understand what it is doing to try to reduce that extension, because there is a need to progress the North/South interconnector if we are to be able to meet our statutory obligations under the Climate Change Act 2022 and other targets. That Department has work to do to make that happen."},{"speaker":"Ms Murphy","text":"Minister, how does your Department ensure adequate North/South cooperation on energy matters?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I thank the Member for her question. As I mentioned, I met my counterpart, Minister O'Brien, last week. He took up his post in January. I will continue to engage with him on energy issues."},{"speaker":"","text":"My officials engage regularly on issues of cooperation between our energy supplies. Senior officials meet quarterly through a joint steering group to discuss oversight of the single electricity market (SEM) and areas that impact our respective energy strategies and climate change targets. The joint steering group is attended by senior officials from my Department, the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), both regulators and representatives from the SEM committee."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Toole","text":"Minister, I am really confused. You have said on multiple occasions from that lectern that you think that the North/South interconnector needs to be undergrounded. I am on the Department's website, which makes it clear that the planning permission that your Department sought is for an overground North/South interconnector. Are you saying one thing while your Department is delivering another? I strongly support the North/South interconnector, but a colleague of yours in the South, Mr Darren O'Rourke TD, appears to object to it. How can you be taken seriously as an Economy Minister who will deliver critical infrastructure when you say one thing and do another and contradict yourself in the Chamber?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I do not agree with the Member about my comments, because I have been consistent on my party's position and the party has been consistent in its position that it would help secure community buy-in. Planning permission was granted by a previous Infrastructure Minister who was your party colleague. As Ministers, we are obliged to fulfil the commitments in respect of that planning consent."},{"speaker":"Mr Bradley","text":"Minister, are you confident that the necessary infrastructure will be in place to ensure delivery to the north-west and the north coast?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I thank the Member for his question. As I said, I have engaged with my counterpart in the South to understand what the issues are in the delay that they made indications about. As I mentioned in my opening answer, the Northern section will be completed by 2028. There is an issue in respect of the investment in the grid, which NIE is progressing. It was granted a record investment of £2·2 billion under RP7, and it will work alongside the Department to ensure the roll-out of that project."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"Earlier today, I dealt with a point of order raised by the Justice Minister on Members asking a Minister's opinion. Members do not generally have to ask a Minister's opinion, as we have just found out, because the Minister has just given an opinion that is contrary to the facts. I said today that this is about getting facts, and the fact is that the North/South interconnector has planning approval to go overground and that the electricity bodies that propose to develop it plan to go overground, as does the Minister's Department. We did not need the Minister's opinion; we just needed facts."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201976%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438208","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-05-13&docID=438446#AQO%201976/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438208"}},{"id":"437977","reference":"AQW 26368/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","answered":"2025-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether his Department is monitoring the availability of routine GP appointments; and (ii) to detail any actions being taken to support practices in restoring pre-pandemic levels of access for non-urgent care.","answerText":"As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. This also means that decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology, telephony and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce.\n\nMy Department gathers data based on weekly survey returns from practices on the number of consultations delivered in Primary Care. This encompasses consultations across the whole practice teams (e.g. GPs, practice employed nurses, TRNs, ANPs, MDT staff, paramedics, practice-based pharmacists) and is not disaggregated by profession.\n\nThere are approximately 200k patient contacts each week, across the whole clinical team in general practice.\n\nAdditional measures have been put in place to support primary care to adapt flexibly to increasing demand. My Department has recently announced investment of £61m over the next 4 years to support the wider rollout of the the Primary Care MDT model which will provide access to a wider range of services in Primary Care and will help stabilise GP services.\n\nAs part of the 2025/26 GMS contract proposals, my Department engaged with the NIGPC on a range of measures to improve the patient experience of accessing GP services. Regrettably, it was not possible to reach agreement with NIGPC on the contract. My Department is now proceeding to implement the 2025/26 GMS contract, which will see an additional £9.5m invested into core GP services. This will include the access improvement measures.\n\nThe access improvements include a requirement for Practices make some of their appointment slots pre-bookable, so that patients do not always have to call back another time when daily capacity is reached; making sure that Practices make the most of existing digital functionality to make ordering repeat prescriptions easier; requiring Practices to ensure their staff deal with patients appropriately when they ‘walk in’ to make an appointment; and a new requirement for GPs to establish patient participation groups, to give patients a voice in how they are served by the Practice.\n\nThese measures are based on existing good practice in Northern Ireland, are designed to be implementable by GPs with no additional staff requirement, and are intended to make small but tangible improvement to the patient experience of accessing GP services.","answerHtml":"As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. This also means that decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology, telephony and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce.
My Department gathers data based on weekly survey returns from practices on the number of consultations delivered in Primary Care. This encompasses consultations across the whole practice teams (e.g. GPs, practice employed nurses, TRNs, ANPs, MDT staff, paramedics, practice-based pharmacists) and is not disaggregated by profession.
There are approximately 200k patient contacts each week, across the whole clinical team in general practice.
Additional measures have been put in place to support primary care to adapt flexibly to increasing demand. My Department has recently announced investment of £61m over the next 4 years to support the wider rollout of the the Primary Care MDT model which will provide access to a wider range of services in Primary Care and will help stabilise GP services.
As part of the 2025/26 GMS contract proposals, my Department engaged with the NIGPC on a range of measures to improve the patient experience of accessing GP services. Regrettably, it was not possible to reach agreement with NIGPC on the contract. My Department is now proceeding to implement the 2025/26 GMS contract, which will see an additional £9.5m invested into core GP services. This will include the access improvement measures.
The access improvements include a requirement for Practices make some of their appointment slots pre-bookable, so that patients do not always have to call back another time when daily capacity is reached; making sure that Practices make the most of existing digital functionality to make ordering repeat prescriptions easier; requiring Practices to ensure their staff deal with patients appropriately when they ‘walk in’ to make an appointment; and a new requirement for GPs to establish patient participation groups, to give patients a voice in how they are served by the Practice.
These measures are based on existing good practice in Northern Ireland, are designed to be implementable by GPs with no additional staff requirement, and are intended to make small but tangible improvement to the patient experience of accessing GP services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026368%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=437977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=437977"}},{"id":"437976","reference":"AQW 26367/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","answered":"2025-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps being taken to ensure patients have access to routine, non-urgent GP appointments, given that many practices continue to operate on an emergency-only basis despite the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions.","answerText":"As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. This also means that decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology, telephony and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce.\n\nMy Department gathers data based on weekly survey returns from practices on the number of consultations delivered in Primary Care. This encompasses consultations across the whole practice teams (e.g. GPs, practice employed nurses, TRNs, ANPs, MDT staff, paramedics, practice-based pharmacists) and is not disaggregated by profession.\n\nThere are approximately 200k patient contacts each week, across the whole clinical team in general practice.\n\nAdditional measures have been put in place to support primary care to adapt flexibly to increasing demand. My Department has recently announced investment of £61m over the next 4 years to support the wider rollout of the the Primary Care MDT model which will provide access to a wider range of services in Primary Care and will help stabilise GP services.\n\nAs part of the 2025/26 GMS contract proposals, my Department engaged with the NIGPC on a range of measures to improve the patient experience of accessing GP services. Regrettably, it was not possible to reach agreement with NIGPC on the contract. My Department is now proceeding to implement the 2025/26 GMS contract, which will see an additional £9.5m invested into core GP services. This will include the access improvement measures.\n\nThe access improvements include a requirement for Practices make some of their appointment slots pre-bookable, so that patients do not always have to call back another time when daily capacity is reached; making sure that Practices make the most of existing digital functionality to make ordering repeat prescriptions easier; requiring Practices to ensure their staff deal with patients appropriately when they ‘walk in’ to make an appointment; and a new requirement for GPs to establish patient participation groups, to give patients a voice in how they are served by the Practice.\n\nThese measures are based on existing good practice in Northern Ireland, are designed to be implementable by GPs with no additional staff requirement, and are intended to make small but tangible improvement to the patient experience of accessing GP services.","answerHtml":"As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. This also means that decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology, telephony and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce.
My Department gathers data based on weekly survey returns from practices on the number of consultations delivered in Primary Care. This encompasses consultations across the whole practice teams (e.g. GPs, practice employed nurses, TRNs, ANPs, MDT staff, paramedics, practice-based pharmacists) and is not disaggregated by profession.
There are approximately 200k patient contacts each week, across the whole clinical team in general practice.
Additional measures have been put in place to support primary care to adapt flexibly to increasing demand. My Department has recently announced investment of £61m over the next 4 years to support the wider rollout of the the Primary Care MDT model which will provide access to a wider range of services in Primary Care and will help stabilise GP services.
As part of the 2025/26 GMS contract proposals, my Department engaged with the NIGPC on a range of measures to improve the patient experience of accessing GP services. Regrettably, it was not possible to reach agreement with NIGPC on the contract. My Department is now proceeding to implement the 2025/26 GMS contract, which will see an additional £9.5m invested into core GP services. This will include the access improvement measures.
The access improvements include a requirement for Practices make some of their appointment slots pre-bookable, so that patients do not always have to call back another time when daily capacity is reached; making sure that Practices make the most of existing digital functionality to make ordering repeat prescriptions easier; requiring Practices to ensure their staff deal with patients appropriately when they ‘walk in’ to make an appointment; and a new requirement for GPs to establish patient participation groups, to give patients a voice in how they are served by the Practice.
These measures are based on existing good practice in Northern Ireland, are designed to be implementable by GPs with no additional staff requirement, and are intended to make small but tangible improvement to the patient experience of accessing GP services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026367%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=437976","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=437976"}},{"id":"437975","reference":"AQW 26366/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","answered":"2025-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any measures his Department is taking to address current and future workforce shortages within imaging services; and (ii) any funding he will make available to update obsolete equipment to ensure the rising demand for services can be met.","answerText":"My Department has already made significant investment to grow the imaging workforce. Commissioned Radiology medical specialty training places have expanded from a baseline of 37 (2015/16) to 55 (2024/25), an increase of 48.6%. Consideration is also being given to a further increase to 56 places for 2025/26. Training places commissioned for pre-registration Diagnostic Radiography have also expanded. A total of 94 places have been commissioned for 2025/26, an increase of 38.2% on the baseline of 68 in 2019/20. In addition, it is intended that a pilot demonstrator public apprenticeship programme in Diagnostic Radiography, with a maximum of 12 participants, will commence in January 2026. However, lack of available funding meant that my Department has been unable to develop the clinical radiology and diagnostic workforce as we would have wished. A business case is being developed for a multi-professional Northern Ireland Imaging Academy which aims to significantly increase the supply of locally trained consultant radiologists and advanced radiographer practitioners. While this is a priority area for my Department, progress remains subject to business case approval and the identification of additional recurrent funding.\n\nRegarding equipment, the Regional Medical Imaging Board monitors the use, configuration and age of all imaging equipment across the entire Health and Social Care system and has developed a schedule for prioritising the replacement of equipment and the procurement of additional equipment in line with population needs and available budget.","answerHtml":"My Department has already made significant investment to grow the imaging workforce. Commissioned Radiology medical specialty training places have expanded from a baseline of 37 (2015/16) to 55 (2024/25), an increase of 48.6%. Consideration is also being given to a further increase to 56 places for 2025/26. Training places commissioned for pre-registration Diagnostic Radiography have also expanded. A total of 94 places have been commissioned for 2025/26, an increase of 38.2% on the baseline of 68 in 2019/20. In addition, it is intended that a pilot demonstrator public apprenticeship programme in Diagnostic Radiography, with a maximum of 12 participants, will commence in January 2026. However, lack of available funding meant that my Department has been unable to develop the clinical radiology and diagnostic workforce as we would have wished. A business case is being developed for a multi-professional Northern Ireland Imaging Academy which aims to significantly increase the supply of locally trained consultant radiologists and advanced radiographer practitioners. While this is a priority area for my Department, progress remains subject to business case approval and the identification of additional recurrent funding.
Regarding equipment, the Regional Medical Imaging Board monitors the use, configuration and age of all imaging equipment across the entire Health and Social Care system and has developed a schedule for prioritising the replacement of equipment and the procurement of additional equipment in line with population needs and available budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026366%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=437975","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=437975"}},{"id":"437974","reference":"AQW 26365/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","answered":"2025-05-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the Northern Ireland Audit Office March 2025 report entitled Health and Social Care Imaging Services; (ii) to detail any steps he will take to address the growing gap between demand and capacity for imaging services; and (iii) to detail any financial support he will make available to support the longer-term sustainability of imaging services.","answerText":"I welcome this report, on which my Department has worked closely with the Northern Ireland Audit Office to advise on issues relating to demand and capacity, workforce challenges and the equipment base required for the safe and effective delivery of vital imaging services. The report highlights the work that imaging services have done to optimise productivity, skill mix, quality improvement, extended working and forward planning, and the work that is still needed. It also recognises the significant gaps in funding for annual increases in imaging demand and the subsequent impact this has on service delivery and waiting times for patients.\n\nIn my statement to the Assembly on 6 May 2025, I detailed how the £215m ringfenced allocation for health in this year’s budget will be invested in waiting list activities. The package of measures to be taken forward includes expanding core capacity in areas such as imaging, where the initial focus will be on increasing utilisation of scanning sessions in core hours, moving to evening and weekend working.\n\nIn the longer term, the Regional Medical Imaging Board is currently overseeing development of a business case for a multi-professional Northern Ireland Imaging Academy which aims to significantly increase the supply of locally trained consultant radiologists and advanced radiographer practitioners to address the increasing demand for imaging investigations and reduce reliance on costly outsourcing. While this is a priority area for my Department, progress remains subject to business case approval and the identification of additional recurrent funding.","answerHtml":"I welcome this report, on which my Department has worked closely with the Northern Ireland Audit Office to advise on issues relating to demand and capacity, workforce challenges and the equipment base required for the safe and effective delivery of vital imaging services. The report highlights the work that imaging services have done to optimise productivity, skill mix, quality improvement, extended working and forward planning, and the work that is still needed. It also recognises the significant gaps in funding for annual increases in imaging demand and the subsequent impact this has on service delivery and waiting times for patients.
In my statement to the Assembly on 6 May 2025, I detailed how the £215m ringfenced allocation for health in this year’s budget will be invested in waiting list activities. The package of measures to be taken forward includes expanding core capacity in areas such as imaging, where the initial focus will be on increasing utilisation of scanning sessions in core hours, moving to evening and weekend working.
In the longer term, the Regional Medical Imaging Board is currently overseeing development of a business case for a multi-professional Northern Ireland Imaging Academy which aims to significantly increase the supply of locally trained consultant radiologists and advanced radiographer practitioners to address the increasing demand for imaging investigations and reduce reliance on costly outsourcing. While this is a priority area for my Department, progress remains subject to business case approval and the identification of additional recurrent funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026365%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=437974","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=437974"}},{"id":"436714","reference":"AQW 26062/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-11","answerBy":"2025-04-30","answered":"2025-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how frequently the findings of the Gambling Survey for Great Britain, which collects the region’s official statistics on gambling behaviour in Great Britain, is published.","answerText":"I refer the Member to the Gambling Commission.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to the Gambling Commission.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026062%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436714","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436714"}},{"id":"436713","reference":"AQW 26061/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-11","answerBy":"2025-04-30","answered":"2025-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the last Gambling Prevalence Survey for Northern Ireland was published.","answerText":"The last Northern Ireland Gambling Prevalence Survey report commissioned by my Department was published on 3 May 2017.","answerHtml":"The last Northern Ireland Gambling Prevalence Survey report commissioned by my Department was published on 3 May 2017.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026061%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436713","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436713"}},{"id":"436712","reference":"AQW 26060/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-11","answerBy":"2025-04-30","answered":"2025-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when he will publish the results of the 2024 Gambling Prevalence Survey for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"A report on the results of the 2024 Gambling Prevalence Survey for Northern Ireland was published on Wednesday 30 April 2025.","answerHtml":"A report on the results of the 2024 Gambling Prevalence Survey for Northern Ireland was published on Wednesday 30 April 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026060%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436712","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436712"}},{"id":"435648","reference":"AQO 1917/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-03","answerBy":"2025-04-29","answered":"2025-04-29","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of the impact of the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Small Grant Scheme.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"Following publication of the new seven-year domestic and sexual abuse strategy in September 2025, the Health Minister and I launched a small grants scheme that offered voluntary and community sector organisations the opportunity to apply for funding to support new ideas and initiatives that aligned with the key strategic pillars outlined in the strategy. Over £300,000 was provided to 14 projects that were to be completed by 31 March 2025. Those projects were to deliver local solutions, promoting prevention; improving outcomes for victims and survivors; and providing a coordinated and impactful response to domestic and sexual abuse. Each project was required to report with post-project evaluations. That work is ongoing, and, to date, five post-project evaluations have been received. I am encouraged that the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and that early insights demonstrate tangible benefits. Those include the provision of support to 24 women and 31 children by North Down and Ards Women’s Aid through its Moving On project; the provision of information to over 200 attendees at an event to mark International Women’s Day that was organised by the Women’s Centre in Derry; White Ribbon’s pilot training programme for Northern Ireland Prison Service staff to enable them to deliver training to residents at Hydebank Wood Secure College aimed at challenging the attitudes and beliefs that lead to violence against women and girls; the provision of brief solution-focused therapy by Nexus to support 102 individuals, which is aimed at crisis de-escalation to support survivors of sexual violence; and the delivery by Derry Well Women of three programmes to young women and girls impacted by domestic and sexual abuse, which is aimed at empowering women and girls to deal with past trauma associated with domestic abuse and to live their best lives. Further work, which will be informed by receipt of the outstanding post-project evaluations, is needed in order to provide a comprehensive assessment of the impact of the small grant scheme to date."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for her answer. Minister, you stated that you were able to fund 14 initiatives. I am aware that one of those — the Family First programme — supports people in my constituency. Are you able to say a bit more about the services that can be provided by that scheme?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"Organisations across all regions of Northern Ireland have benefited from the support provided through the scheme. The initiatives have wide-ranging impacts, as I have set out, and offer vital assistance to men, women and children who are affected by domestic and sexual abuse. The scheme has enabled some front-line services to deliver practical, emotional, preventative and therapeutic support that has made a difference to the lives of individuals and families. Earlier this month, I had the privilege of visiting a Women's Aid refuge in Ballymena to see first-hand the valuable work that is being delivered through its Family First programme, which is supported by the scheme. That programme plays a vital role in offering early interventions for women and children affected by domestic abuse across the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council area. It supports mothers in identifying and building on their strengths, developing tailored family support plans and gaining a deeper understanding of how abuse has impacted on their children. Children, in turn, receive therapeutic support in a safe, nurturing environment in which they can begin to process their experiences and build emotional resilience. It was really uplifting to see the positive impact that the programme is having on families and to hear the improved outcomes for the young people who have had that additional contact and support. I look forward to visiting other initiatives that are funded through the scheme to see the broader reach of what I believe to be important work."},{"speaker":"Ms Forsythe","text":"When strategies come into place, the allocation of budget is absolutely critical, and the domestic abuse strategy is a clear example of that. Will the Minister provide a bit more detail on the £300,000 for 14 projects, which are most welcome? What is her estimate of the value of rolling forward the scheme? How long will it continue?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"The plan is that, when we get the post-project evaluation reports, we will see where, we feel, further roll-out, for example, might be appropriate. Such things, as the Member will appreciate, depend entirely on having the resources available to do them, but, when we looked at how the projects work, we were robust in scrutinising them. We wanted to bring additionality so that we were not just looking at things that are already being done, and we wanted to look at innovation so that we were looking at new ways of tackling the issues. Through those projects, we have been able to find new ways in which we can better support families who are experiencing domestic violence and abuse and better ways in which we can, in particular, provide the support needed by young people, who are often casualties of domestic violence, although they may not be the intended victim. Such abuse can have long-term consequences. I spoke to one of the women who have worked with some of the families, and she told me how some of the children, as a result of domestic abuse and upheaval in the home, had been absent from school for long periods and had started to refuse to go to school. She talked about how she worked with a mother who was afraid to take her child to school, because even the routine of doing that left her feeling exposed to her abusive partner. She then worked with the school and the mother to arrange different pickup and drop-off times, breakfast club membership and things like that so that the mother had the confidence to take her child to school, to make that part of his day and to allow him to reintegrate with children in the school. The learning from that will allow us to inform other strategic decisions that we can take in the Department of Health and the Department of Justice on how we better support people."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201917%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435648","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-04-29&docID=436284#AQO%201917/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435648"}},{"id":"433130","reference":"AQW 24609/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-19","answerBy":"2025-04-03","answered":"2025-04-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in light of the suspension of the Living With Water Programme and the current status of a significant proportion of Combined Sewer Overflows, to detail her (i) long-term; and (ii) immediate plans to address the issue of sewage pollution entering Belfast Lough and across the wider marine environment.","answerText":"With the costs of the NI Water elements of the Plan increasing by over 50% within 2 years of publication it will take longer than the 12 years originally estimated.\n\nAn Affordability Review of the Belfast Plan confirmed that the wastewater projects in it, will now be taken forward by NI Water at a pace and scale achievable within allocated budgets. NI Water has subsequently advised that delivery of the upgrades to the major wastewater treatment works around Belfast Lough, have now been paused. Instead, NI Water will focus on additional maintenance to ensure these assets can continue to operate in the short term, until such times as budget is available to undertake more substantial upgrades.\n\nIt was always accepted that additional funding would be required to deliver all aspects of the Belfast Plan. In the New Decade New Approach agreement, Living With Water was identified as a beneficiary of increased funding, but this has not been provided to date by the British government. In this financial year, I have provided NI Water with c£0.5billion funding, however, I will continue to make the case for additional funding for water and wastewater services. I remain committed to achieving the objectives of the Belfast Plan to develop and implement integrated drainage solutions, including blue / green infrastructure.\n\nI will continue to follow my three-pronged approach to secure more investment for wastewater infrastructure, to explore developer contributions and to bring in legislation for sustainable urban drainage.","answerHtml":"With the costs of the NI Water elements of the Plan increasing by over 50% within 2 years of publication it will take longer than the 12 years originally estimated.
An Affordability Review of the Belfast Plan confirmed that the wastewater projects in it, will now be taken forward by NI Water at a pace and scale achievable within allocated budgets. NI Water has subsequently advised that delivery of the upgrades to the major wastewater treatment works around Belfast Lough, have now been paused. Instead, NI Water will focus on additional maintenance to ensure these assets can continue to operate in the short term, until such times as budget is available to undertake more substantial upgrades.
It was always accepted that additional funding would be required to deliver all aspects of the Belfast Plan. In the New Decade New Approach agreement, Living With Water was identified as a beneficiary of increased funding, but this has not been provided to date by the British government. In this financial year, I have provided NI Water with c£0.5billion funding, however, I will continue to make the case for additional funding for water and wastewater services. I remain committed to achieving the objectives of the Belfast Plan to develop and implement integrated drainage solutions, including blue / green infrastructure.
I will continue to follow my three-pronged approach to secure more investment for wastewater infrastructure, to explore developer contributions and to bring in legislation for sustainable urban drainage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024609%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433130","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433130"}},{"id":"432639","reference":"AQO 1771/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-13","answerBy":"2025-03-25","answered":"2025-03-25","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline how he is working with his counterparts in the rest of the UK and Ireland to address the climate crisis.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"The impacts of climate change are indiscriminate and affect us globally. Therefore, I fully recognise the necessity and importance of working with my counterparts in the rest of the UK and Ireland to address the climate crisis and to achieve our shared net zero goals. At a UK level, I engage with my counterparts in the UK Government, the Welsh Government and the Scottish Government on matters relating to climate change through a number of inter-ministerial groups (IMGs), including the net zero, energy and climate change inter-ministerial group and the environment, food and rural affairs inter-ministerial group. Those discussions allow for knowledge transfer and identification of opportunities for collaboration. I was pleased to be able to host and chair recently the first in-person meeting of the net zero, energy and climate change inter-ministerial group in Belfast — I thank Belfast Harbour estate for hosting us — on 6 March. The next meeting is planned for early May. I have also been fortunate to have had the opportunity for additional engagement on matters relating to climate change with my Welsh and Scottish counterparts through our joint membership of the Under2 Coalition. Separate to those IMG structures, I engage with my counterparts from across the UK on ensuring that, collectively, we fulfil our responsibilities under the UK-wide Climate Change Act 2008. That includes the emissions trading scheme. Through the British-Irish Council (BIC) and the North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC), I also have ongoing engagement with my counterparts from across the UK and Ireland that, among other areas of shared interest, includes discussions on how we can address climate change together. I want to build on those issues and am in the process of arranging a meeting with my ministerial counterpart in the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC), following his appointment in January. I hope that that meeting will take place shortly."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for that answer. What is the Minister's assessment of the recent Climate Change Committee (CCC) advice on the fourth carbon budget?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"Thank you very much, Danny. The Climate Change Committee published its fourth carbon budget advice on 19 March. I welcome that. It advises us on our pathway to net zero and states that there will be a net saving during the fourth carbon budget period, which is 2038 to 2042. I encourage anyone who has not read it to read it. There are strong benefits, particularly regarding the decarbonisation of electricity. We must grasp the opportunity. If we do not, there is a risk that we will lose pace and not be able to create the good green jobs that we want to create in Northern Ireland and deliver prosperity for our people."},{"speaker":"Miss McIlveen","text":"There is a challenging budget and an ever-growing pressure to meet targets set by an Assembly that was desperate to push through ill-considered legislation in 2022. We now hear that the office of a climate change commissioner will cost in the region of £1 million per year. Does the Minister consider that to be value for money?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"Investing in dealing with climate change is important. I was at an exhibition this morning by Trócaire, which showed the consequences of climate change for the most vulnerable in society. Those who have contributed least to climate change feel the consequences of it most. There is a moral obligation to look beyond Northern Ireland when dealing with climate change, and it is important that we do that. I understand that we have to invest in decarbonising our economy. Many businesses are doing that. I meet them daily, and they are on that journey. Some people need to understand that, if we want our economy to grow sustainably, we need to be on the road to net zero. I am committed to doing that. What some people seem to forget — rather conveniently, frankly — is that it was my predecessor, the DUP Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, who introduced that legislation, and the Assembly voted unanimously for it. What I am doing is implementing the will of the Assembly as expressed in 2022."},{"speaker":"Mr McAleer","text":"Minister, from your engagements with your counterparts in Westminster, do you have any update on the provision of a just transition fund?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"As part of the process for the Budget that was announced at the end of October, I made representations for a just transition fund for agriculture. I was not successful in that, so I made a bid to the Finance Minister locally, and, in the draft Budget, there is funding set aside for a just transition fund for agriculture. I continue that work. We are making representations through the Minister of Finance to the UK Government about future financial years and the support that we can give. I have also made representations to the Prime Minister and the Minister in the Department for Energy, Security and Net Zero or DESNZ — sorry, another acronym — in London about the need for us to have a green new deal in Northern Ireland. I will continue to make those representations, because they are about investing for the future and delivering benefits for people in Northern Ireland."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201771%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432639","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-03-25&docID=433027#AQO%201771/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432639"}},{"id":"432606","reference":"AQO 1738/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-13","answerBy":"2025-03-24","answered":"2025-03-24","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for her assessment of the potential impact that an expert led, independent Infrastructure Commission will have on capital infrastructure projects.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"I do not have question 4 here. Sorry, just bear with me for two seconds. During this financial year, NI Water has been — sorry, I have not been provided with question 4. Apologies: it has been missed off my list. Can I come back to the Member? I am really sorry about that."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"That has never happened before, Minister."},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"No, I know that. I have question 3, and then my notes go to question 5. It is a technical difficulty."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"Paper is very good, so it is. I would recommend it."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201738%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432606","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-03-24&docID=433026#AQO%201738/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432606"}},{"id":"432088","reference":"AQW 24158/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-11","answerBy":"2025-03-14","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following the March 2025 Northern Ireland Audit Office report Ambulance Handovers in Northern Ireland, to detail any action he will take to improve ambulance handover times.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Audit Office report underlines the seriousness and scale of the pressures facing health and social care services and I note the recognition that the root cause of delayed ambulance handovers is the wider severe health and social care system pressures and hospital discharge delays. Patients are waiting too long in ambulances outside our emergency departments as a direct consequence of poor flow in our hospitals and social care constraints, increasing the risk of harm to patients and also impacting on NIAS’s capacity to respond to emergency calls in the community.\n\nWhile pressures manifest at the Emergency Department, flow through the system and getting those people medically fit for discharge back into the community remain significant issues, meaning that a whole system approach is required. Some progress has been made in delivering changes to services to meet the needs of patients and service users, such as the introduction of Urgent Care Centres and local Phone First services and the introduction of pathways for patients to access a range of services as alternatives to going to an Emergency Department, where this is appropriate.\n\nIt is important to reiterate that there is no quick fix and addressing the current situation will require sustained long-term effort, additional recurrent funding and support across the political spectrum.\n\nHowever, I remain determined to find better ways to work as a system to tackle these complex issues. I have asked my officials to look at initiatives used elsewhere and they are engaging with the London Ambulance Service, to understand the model they have implemented with Trusts in the London area which have resulted in improved ambulance handover times. I have also initiated a series of winter planning workshops to identify solutions to the system flow issues that we collectively face. I attended the first of these events on 4 March and was encouraged by the engagement and enthusiasm from HSC leaders across the system. I expect to see better outcomes in advance of next winter, including improvements to hospital handover times.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Audit Office report underlines the seriousness and scale of the pressures facing health and social care services and I note the recognition that the root cause of delayed ambulance handovers is the wider severe health and social care system pressures and hospital discharge delays. Patients are waiting too long in ambulances outside our emergency departments as a direct consequence of poor flow in our hospitals and social care constraints, increasing the risk of harm to patients and also impacting on NIAS’s capacity to respond to emergency calls in the community.
While pressures manifest at the Emergency Department, flow through the system and getting those people medically fit for discharge back into the community remain significant issues, meaning that a whole system approach is required. Some progress has been made in delivering changes to services to meet the needs of patients and service users, such as the introduction of Urgent Care Centres and local Phone First services and the introduction of pathways for patients to access a range of services as alternatives to going to an Emergency Department, where this is appropriate.
It is important to reiterate that there is no quick fix and addressing the current situation will require sustained long-term effort, additional recurrent funding and support across the political spectrum.
However, I remain determined to find better ways to work as a system to tackle these complex issues. I have asked my officials to look at initiatives used elsewhere and they are engaging with the London Ambulance Service, to understand the model they have implemented with Trusts in the London area which have resulted in improved ambulance handover times. I have also initiated a series of winter planning workshops to identify solutions to the system flow issues that we collectively face. I attended the first of these events on 4 March and was encouraged by the engagement and enthusiasm from HSC leaders across the system. I expect to see better outcomes in advance of next winter, including improvements to hospital handover times.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024158%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432088","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432088"}},{"id":"430608","reference":"AQW 23671/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-03","answerBy":"2025-03-19","answered":"2025-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 14993/22-27, to define the issues of such importance that their impact is considered to extend to a sub-regional or regional level.","answerText":"As indicated in the answer to AQW 14993/22-27, proposed development and associated circumstances which may be considered to have a regional / sub-regional impact is a matter of judgement on a case-by-case basis.\n\nThe Department’s Development Management Practice Note 13: ‘Notification and Call-in’ (DMPN 13) provides additional information concerning what areas the Department may consider as part of its assessment of whether or not to call in a planning application. However, this list is not exhaustive and the power to call in applications to the Department for determination is entirely discretionary.\n\nDMPN 13 areas for consideration include: the relevant development plan; the opinion of statutory consultees; the national importance of the proposal; its relationship with a Regionally Significant Application; the significance of application to the whole or part of Northern Ireland; and any significant effects outside of Northern Ireland.\n\nThis document can be found at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/infrastructure/dmpn-13-notification-and-call-in-v5-may-2016_0.pdf","answerHtml":"As indicated in the answer to AQW 14993/22-27, proposed development and associated circumstances which may be considered to have a regional / sub-regional impact is a matter of judgement on a case-by-case basis.
The Department’s Development Management Practice Note 13: ‘Notification and Call-in’ (DMPN 13) provides additional information concerning what areas the Department may consider as part of its assessment of whether or not to call in a planning application. However, this list is not exhaustive and the power to call in applications to the Department for determination is entirely discretionary.
DMPN 13 areas for consideration include: the relevant development plan; the opinion of statutory consultees; the national importance of the proposal; its relationship with a Regionally Significant Application; the significance of application to the whole or part of Northern Ireland; and any significant effects outside of Northern Ireland.
This document can be found at the following link:
https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/infrastructure/dmpn-13-notification-and-call-in-v5-may-2016_0.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023671%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430608","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430608"}},{"id":"430607","reference":"AQW 23670/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-03","answerBy":"2025-03-19","answered":"2025-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether the Killyglen Link Road area, Larne, will be added to the list of areas to be gritted during periods of snow or ice.","answerText":"My Department routinely treats over 7,000 kms (28%) of the road network, which covers 80% of all traffic movements. Salting schedules are defined through the application of departmental policy ensuring a consistent application of winter service provision across the north.\n\nMy Department’s policy confirms that where a parallel route is included in the salted network, then any through route does not require treatment. However, my officials will carry out traffic surveys on both the Killyglen Link Road and the northern section of the Linn Road, to determine if the gritting schedule requires any amendment for next season. This may result in the removal of the northern section of the Linn Road to allow for the inclusion of Killglen Link.","answerHtml":"My Department routinely treats over 7,000 kms (28%) of the road network, which covers 80% of all traffic movements. Salting schedules are defined through the application of departmental policy ensuring a consistent application of winter service provision across the north.
My Department’s policy confirms that where a parallel route is included in the salted network, then any through route does not require treatment. However, my officials will carry out traffic surveys on both the Killyglen Link Road and the northern section of the Linn Road, to determine if the gritting schedule requires any amendment for next season. This may result in the removal of the northern section of the Linn Road to allow for the inclusion of Killglen Link.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023670%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430607","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430607"}},{"id":"429558","reference":"AQW 23194/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-24","answerBy":"2025-03-11","answered":"2025-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 22139/22-27, to detail any assessment made by (i) his Department; and (ii) the Education Authority on the impact that the increase in employers' National Insurance contributions will have on the ability of the approximately 5,000 children with special educational needs and disabilities currently transported by private bus and taxi operators to attend school from April 2025.","answerText":"School transport is one of many vital services provided by private sector employers on behalf of the public sector and I am concerned about the impact the recent Budget may have on the cost to employers of providing those services. The impact on employers of the increase in National Insurance Contributions (NIC) will vary depending on the size of the business, how many it employs and how it manages the new arrangements.\n\nI understand that a number of the private bus and taxi operators, who hold contracts with the Education Authority (EA) to provide school transport, are smaller businesses whose NIC liability may not increase or are self-employed and therefore unaffected. The EA does not, however, hold information that would allow it to identify the private bus and taxi operators who will be impacted or to make a detailed assessment of the extent to which this may increase their operating costs. The EA works closely with its transport operators and has advised that to date none have raised concerns about the rise in operating costs due to the increase in NICs, however it will engage with any who are impacted and for whom this presents difficulties.\n\nIt is clear that the increase in employers NICs has the potential to increase the already significant cost of the school transport service, however the picture is still emerging. At this stage, I believe the increase in operational costs of those transport operators who are impacted can be managed by the EA through the annual tendering process and I do not anticipate that this will result in children who are transported by private bus and taxi being unable to attend school.","answerHtml":"School transport is one of many vital services provided by private sector employers on behalf of the public sector and I am concerned about the impact the recent Budget may have on the cost to employers of providing those services. The impact on employers of the increase in National Insurance Contributions (NIC) will vary depending on the size of the business, how many it employs and how it manages the new arrangements.
I understand that a number of the private bus and taxi operators, who hold contracts with the Education Authority (EA) to provide school transport, are smaller businesses whose NIC liability may not increase or are self-employed and therefore unaffected. The EA does not, however, hold information that would allow it to identify the private bus and taxi operators who will be impacted or to make a detailed assessment of the extent to which this may increase their operating costs. The EA works closely with its transport operators and has advised that to date none have raised concerns about the rise in operating costs due to the increase in NICs, however it will engage with any who are impacted and for whom this presents difficulties.
It is clear that the increase in employers NICs has the potential to increase the already significant cost of the school transport service, however the picture is still emerging. At this stage, I believe the increase in operational costs of those transport operators who are impacted can be managed by the EA through the annual tendering process and I do not anticipate that this will result in children who are transported by private bus and taxi being unable to attend school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023194%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429558","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429558"}},{"id":"429557","reference":"AQW 23193/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-24","answerBy":"2025-03-11","answered":"2025-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the current pause of public awareness campaigns, which include organ donation; and (ii) to detail any steps being taken to ensure the continued promotion of organ donation following the change to the opt-out system.","answerText":"You will be aware that I have repeatedly stated that the budget allocated to the health service is wholly inadequate. This resulted in a collective effort across the system and at Department level to make savings, including a moratorium on paid advertising campaigns and consideration of other discretionary spend which has impacted on paid aspects of the organ donation programme. That position remains the same.\n\nMy Department has a statutory duty to promote organ transplantation under the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act (Northern Ireland) 2016. In line with this duty, my Department oversees a comprehensive rolling programme of outreach and engagement activity to promote knowledge and informed discussion about organ donation, including promoting understanding of organ donation laws, which is aimed at driving registrations on the NHS Organ Donor Register and sustaining and increasing rates of consent to both living and deceased organ donation.","answerHtml":"You will be aware that I have repeatedly stated that the budget allocated to the health service is wholly inadequate. This resulted in a collective effort across the system and at Department level to make savings, including a moratorium on paid advertising campaigns and consideration of other discretionary spend which has impacted on paid aspects of the organ donation programme. That position remains the same.
My Department has a statutory duty to promote organ transplantation under the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act (Northern Ireland) 2016. In line with this duty, my Department oversees a comprehensive rolling programme of outreach and engagement activity to promote knowledge and informed discussion about organ donation, including promoting understanding of organ donation laws, which is aimed at driving registrations on the NHS Organ Donor Register and sustaining and increasing rates of consent to both living and deceased organ donation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023193%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429557","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429557"}},{"id":"428922","reference":"AQW 22902/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-19","answerBy":"2025-03-06","answered":"2025-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the implementation of Action 29.d of the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031; (ii) to detail the steps taken to ensure that the regional eating disorder service is accessible and effectively resourced across all Health and Social Care Trusts; and (iii) to detail any planned actions to further strengthen support for individuals with eating disorders.","answerText":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 includes a commitment to enhance regional eating disorder services and in line with the Mental Health Strategy Action 29 d, a Regional Clinical Lead and Manager for the Regional Eating Disorder Managed Care Network were appointed in late 2024. They are in the planning phase of establishing the Network and a business case to improve effective resource allocation is in its final stages.\n\nA precise timescale for further implementation of Action 29d has not been determined as it will depend upon the availability of funding. The Business Case related to Action 29 d proposes to enhance the current community-based, evidence-based treatment model in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance, thereby increasing regional availability and accessibility of intensive community and day treatment.","answerHtml":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 includes a commitment to enhance regional eating disorder services and in line with the Mental Health Strategy Action 29 d, a Regional Clinical Lead and Manager for the Regional Eating Disorder Managed Care Network were appointed in late 2024. They are in the planning phase of establishing the Network and a business case to improve effective resource allocation is in its final stages.
A precise timescale for further implementation of Action 29d has not been determined as it will depend upon the availability of funding. The Business Case related to Action 29 d proposes to enhance the current community-based, evidence-based treatment model in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance, thereby increasing regional availability and accessibility of intensive community and day treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022902%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428922","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428922"}},{"id":"428746","reference":"AQW 22812/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-18","answerBy":"2025-03-05","answered":"2025-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on whether the Independent Living Fund will be reopened.","answerText":"My Department currently provides £7.2m recurrent funding to ILF.\n\nFollowing recent meetings between my officials and the Senior Management Team, ILF Scotland, and the Northern Ireland ILF Advisory Group, my officials will shortly be providing me with advice regarding the potential to reopen the Independent Living Funding to new applications in Northern Ireland.\n\nIt remains the case however that due to the very significant and challenging financial position facing my Department, the issues of funding, affordability and sustainability remain key areas for my consideration going forward.","answerHtml":"My Department currently provides £7.2m recurrent funding to ILF.
Following recent meetings between my officials and the Senior Management Team, ILF Scotland, and the Northern Ireland ILF Advisory Group, my officials will shortly be providing me with advice regarding the potential to reopen the Independent Living Funding to new applications in Northern Ireland.
It remains the case however that due to the very significant and challenging financial position facing my Department, the issues of funding, affordability and sustainability remain key areas for my consideration going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022812%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428746","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428746"}},{"id":"428137","reference":"AQW 22606/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will commit to delivering a Real Living Wage in social care.","answerText":"As indicated at the Health Committee meeting on 7 January 2025, it is my intention to make the social care sector a Real Living Wage sector. I am planning to commence introduction in the 2025/26 financial year. This will require additional investment of around £50m, that is, in addition to the £70m invested in the sector in 2024/25.","answerHtml":"As indicated at the Health Committee meeting on 7 January 2025, it is my intention to make the social care sector a Real Living Wage sector. I am planning to commence introduction in the 2025/26 financial year. This will require additional investment of around £50m, that is, in addition to the £70m invested in the sector in 2024/25.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022606%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428137","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428137"}},{"id":"428136","reference":"AQW 22605/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether an assessment has been made of potential savings that could be made within his Department through multi-year budgeting, including the areas the savings would be realised in.","answerText":"Multi-year budgets by themselves don't drive savings but long-term planning will enable us to plan better, set more strategic targets and hence achieve better outcomes. With this in mind I hope that the Executive will soon be in a position to set multi-year budgets for the period 2026-27 onwards.\n\nMy department is in the initial planning stage of developing a 5-year plan which will align with the Budget Sustainability planning that the Executive has committed to, however we currently are not in a position to identify where any additional savings would come from.\n\nThe 2025-26 draft budget allocation means that our focus on delivering short-term savings remains and Trusts are currently working to identify the extent to which these can contribute to protecting services in the year ahead.","answerHtml":"Multi-year budgets by themselves don't drive savings but long-term planning will enable us to plan better, set more strategic targets and hence achieve better outcomes. With this in mind I hope that the Executive will soon be in a position to set multi-year budgets for the period 2026-27 onwards.
My department is in the initial planning stage of developing a 5-year plan which will align with the Budget Sustainability planning that the Executive has committed to, however we currently are not in a position to identify where any additional savings would come from.
The 2025-26 draft budget allocation means that our focus on delivering short-term savings remains and Trusts are currently working to identify the extent to which these can contribute to protecting services in the year ahead.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022605%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428136","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428136"}},{"id":"428135","reference":"AQW 22604/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether an assessment has been made of potential savings that could be made within his Department through the amalgamation of the five Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"I have already stated on a number of occasions that, given this year’s budget allocation to my Department and the efficiencies that have consequently been required, the priority at this stage is the stabilisation of services. A focus on an internal reform of structures would detract and distract from the more important issues facing our health service such as tackling waiting lists and addressing health inequalities. In any case, amalgamation of the six Trusts would ultimately only lead to minimal savings as the vast majority of staff cost expenditure would still be required.\n\nI have already made clear to all HSC Trusts that I view them as essentially one Trust in practice and that I expect greater cooperation, sharing of limited resources and maximising of possible efficiencies between them.","answerHtml":"I have already stated on a number of occasions that, given this year’s budget allocation to my Department and the efficiencies that have consequently been required, the priority at this stage is the stabilisation of services. A focus on an internal reform of structures would detract and distract from the more important issues facing our health service such as tackling waiting lists and addressing health inequalities. In any case, amalgamation of the six Trusts would ultimately only lead to minimal savings as the vast majority of staff cost expenditure would still be required.
I have already made clear to all HSC Trusts that I view them as essentially one Trust in practice and that I expect greater cooperation, sharing of limited resources and maximising of possible efficiencies between them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022604%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428135","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428135"}},{"id":"428134","reference":"AQW 22603/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the funding for the ongoing planned roll-out of multi-disciplinary teams is ring-fenced.","answerText":"The extremely challenging workforce and financial constraints that the Department of Health have been operating under have been a limiting factor in our ability to progress implementation of MDT as widely, and as quickly, as desired.\n\nDespite these pressures, as of January 2025, there are over 368 whole time equivalent front-line staff working across 117 GP Practices in 7 GP Federation areas in the Primary Care MDT programme.\n\nA proposal to secure funds from NI Transformation Fund, if successful will enable completion of the model in existing MDT areas, and expansion to 5 new GP Federation areas with a population of roughly 670,000 people. This funding is ringfenced investment for transformation .\n\nFollowing the announcement of the 2025-26 Draft Budget allocation, my Department has assessed that Health will be facing a significant funding gap in 2025-26 as a result of both inflationary pressures and increased demand.\n\nMy Department remains committed to the further implementation of the MDT model across Northern Ireland. As set out in, Health and Social Care NI – A Three Year Plan to Stabilise, Reform and Deliver, I have made a commitment to publish a plan, by April 2025, for the completion of the Primary Care Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDT) model across all areas of Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The extremely challenging workforce and financial constraints that the Department of Health have been operating under have been a limiting factor in our ability to progress implementation of MDT as widely, and as quickly, as desired.
Despite these pressures, as of January 2025, there are over 368 whole time equivalent front-line staff working across 117 GP Practices in 7 GP Federation areas in the Primary Care MDT programme.
A proposal to secure funds from NI Transformation Fund, if successful will enable completion of the model in existing MDT areas, and expansion to 5 new GP Federation areas with a population of roughly 670,000 people. This funding is ringfenced investment for transformation .
Following the announcement of the 2025-26 Draft Budget allocation, my Department has assessed that Health will be facing a significant funding gap in 2025-26 as a result of both inflationary pressures and increased demand.
My Department remains committed to the further implementation of the MDT model across Northern Ireland. As set out in, Health and Social Care NI – A Three Year Plan to Stabilise, Reform and Deliver, I have made a commitment to publish a plan, by April 2025, for the completion of the Primary Care Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDT) model across all areas of Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022603%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428134","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428134"}},{"id":"427996","reference":"AQW 22522/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether the stroke workforce review has been completed; and (ii) when the actions will be implemented.","answerText":"I recognise the crucial role of the workforce in delivering improved outcomes for stroke survivors. Due to resource constraints and the need to take into account revised best practice guidelines, it has not been possible to progress the workforce review within the timescale outlined in the Reshaping Stroke Care Action Plan.\n\nHowever, I can advise that preparatory work to commence the workforce review has been completed. My officials have developed draft Terms of Reference and a project lead has recently been appointed and will join the Department in the coming weeks to take this important work forward. It is anticipated that the review will commence in April.\n\nIt is expected that the workforce review will take approximately 12 months to complete. Any recommended actions arising from the work of the review will be considered for implementation at that time in the context of available funding and resources.","answerHtml":"I recognise the crucial role of the workforce in delivering improved outcomes for stroke survivors. Due to resource constraints and the need to take into account revised best practice guidelines, it has not been possible to progress the workforce review within the timescale outlined in the Reshaping Stroke Care Action Plan.
However, I can advise that preparatory work to commence the workforce review has been completed. My officials have developed draft Terms of Reference and a project lead has recently been appointed and will join the Department in the coming weeks to take this important work forward. It is anticipated that the review will commence in April.
It is expected that the workforce review will take approximately 12 months to complete. Any recommended actions arising from the work of the review will be considered for implementation at that time in the context of available funding and resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022522%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427996","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427996"}},{"id":"427995","reference":"AQW 22521/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the Stoke Action Plan, (i) whether all eligible patients fulfilling criteria for early supported discharge (ESD) are offered therapy as per guidelines of 45 minutes per discipline available five days per week; and (ii) whether 40 per cent of stroke admissions are discharged to ESD.","answerText":"Targets within the Stroke Action Plan including those listed above, were caveated that additional resource in a challenging financial climate would be required in order to deliver. Whilst ESD is available 5 days per week in all Trusts except Northern Health & Social Care Trust, which requires funding to implement, there is insufficient capacity to offer therapy as per the guidelines shown. Patients are therefore triaged and innovative ways such as group sessions, put in place to maximise activity within funding available.\n\nRecent SSNAP date indicated 55% of patients discharged alive following a stroke were discharged to a stroke specific Early Supported Discharge team. This percentage is liable to fluctuation.","answerHtml":"Targets within the Stroke Action Plan including those listed above, were caveated that additional resource in a challenging financial climate would be required in order to deliver. Whilst ESD is available 5 days per week in all Trusts except Northern Health & Social Care Trust, which requires funding to implement, there is insufficient capacity to offer therapy as per the guidelines shown. Patients are therefore triaged and innovative ways such as group sessions, put in place to maximise activity within funding available.
Recent SSNAP date indicated 55% of patients discharged alive following a stroke were discharged to a stroke specific Early Supported Discharge team. This percentage is liable to fluctuation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022521%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427995","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427995"}},{"id":"427994","reference":"AQW 22520/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the Stroke Action Plan, (i) whether he has met the target of 8 per cent of ischaemic stroke admissions in a stroke-receiving hospital receiving thrombectomy by March 2024; and (ii) whether he is on course to meet the target of 10 per cent by March 2026.","answerText":"The thrombectomy targets set in the 2022 Stroke Action Plan were based on a 24/7 service being in place. Given the budgetary constraints, we have not been in a position to expand thrombectomy to 24/7. This would require significant investment including the recruitment of specialist posts within a limited workforce pool. Therefore the 8% target for 2024 and the 10% for 2026 will not be met.\n\nHowever, I am committed to ensuring as many people as possible from across Northern Ireland continue to benefit from the service within the current hours of operation. The thrombectomy rate of 6% as at March 2024 compares favourably with that for England and Wales.","answerHtml":"The thrombectomy targets set in the 2022 Stroke Action Plan were based on a 24/7 service being in place. Given the budgetary constraints, we have not been in a position to expand thrombectomy to 24/7. This would require significant investment including the recruitment of specialist posts within a limited workforce pool. Therefore the 8% target for 2024 and the 10% for 2026 will not be met.
However, I am committed to ensuring as many people as possible from across Northern Ireland continue to benefit from the service within the current hours of operation. The thrombectomy rate of 6% as at March 2024 compares favourably with that for England and Wales.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022520%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427994"}},{"id":"427993","reference":"AQW 22519/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the Stroke Action Plan, (i) whether he has met the target of 15 per cent of ischaemic stroke admissions receiving thrombolysis by March 2023; and (ii) whether he is on course to meet the 20 per cent target by March 2025.","answerText":"I am pleased to confirm that Northern Ireland achieved a 15% thrombolysis rate in 2022/23 with 448 patients receiving the acute intervention.\n\nHowever, in line with a changing evidence base using machine learning and clinical pathway simulation, the national target will move from 20% to 18% by 2025/26. Each hospital will be given its own thrombolysis target which will be monitored through the Sentinel Stroke National Audit Programme.","answerHtml":"I am pleased to confirm that Northern Ireland achieved a 15% thrombolysis rate in 2022/23 with 448 patients receiving the acute intervention.
However, in line with a changing evidence base using machine learning and clinical pathway simulation, the national target will move from 20% to 18% by 2025/26. Each hospital will be given its own thrombolysis target which will be monitored through the Sentinel Stroke National Audit Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022519%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427993"}},{"id":"427992","reference":"AQW 22518/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when the regional model for transient ischaemic attack assessment will be operational, which will deliver a seven days a week service of specialist assessment within 24 hours of symptoms.","answerText":"Targets within the Stroke Action Plan including those listed above, were caveated that additional resource in a challenging financial climate would be required in order to deliver. Expansion of current Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) services from 5 to 7 day working with the capacity to respond within 24 hours, will require significant investment in radiology staff and capacity as well as stroke workforce.\n\nHowever, I recognise the importance of TIA management in the prevention of stroke and can advise that regional guidance on TIA management has been developed in 2024 and circulated to HSC Trusts to maximise implementation within existing resources.","answerHtml":"Targets within the Stroke Action Plan including those listed above, were caveated that additional resource in a challenging financial climate would be required in order to deliver. Expansion of current Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) services from 5 to 7 day working with the capacity to respond within 24 hours, will require significant investment in radiology staff and capacity as well as stroke workforce.
However, I recognise the importance of TIA management in the prevention of stroke and can advise that regional guidance on TIA management has been developed in 2024 and circulated to HSC Trusts to maximise implementation within existing resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022518%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427992"}},{"id":"428096","reference":"AQO 1622/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-25","answered":"2025-02-25","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on any action taken by his Department to improve water quality.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"I am pleased to report that the implementation of the Lough Neagh report and action plan and the environmental improvement plan has been progressing since I received Executive approval for them last year. Those reports contain a comprehensive range of actions to secure longer-term improvements in water quality across Northern Ireland and tackle blue-green algae blooms. Actions being taken forward include a review of the nutrients action programme, as well as small business research initiatives on the sustainable utilisation of livestock slurry: that is the key initiative for the future of Lough Neagh. Grant support for the water quality improvement projects has been provided to community groups through the environment fund. A recent review of the third cycle river basin management plan for 2021-27 has been completed, and, subject to Executive approval, I hope to publish the plan in the near future. My Department continues to deliver the soil nutrient health scheme, which provides farmers with soil analysis and training to improve nutrient management and water quality. In addition, the sustainable catchment programme continues to provide advisory farm visits and capital grant support to carry out works on water quality. I am committed to working in partnership across government, the public and private sectors and wider society to improve water quality in Northern Ireland but would stress that there are no quick fixes and that collective action is essential."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Dr Aiken)","text":"I call Danny Donnelly for a very quick supplementary question."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. I thank the Minister for that answer. What is the Minister doing to address waste water pollution?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"I am working to fulfil my Department's statutory obligations under the Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007. That will include the publication of the outstanding 2019 and 2023 reviews of sensitive areas and, subject to Executive approval, the identification of the inner Belfast lough shellfish water protected area as a sensitive area. The proposed sensitive area designation will mean additional requirements in respect of the treatment of waste water discharges to the shellfish water protected area. DAERA officials are liaising with their counterparts in the Department for Infrastructure to discuss the implications of that identification for DFI and Northern Ireland Water. I am acutely aware of the need to progress that. I am also on the record about my position on SORPI. I am minded to withdraw from SORPI, and I have agreed an eight-week period of engagement with the Department for Infrastructure and Northern Ireland Water to inform my final decision on the Northern Ireland Environment Agency's withdrawal from SORPI and the next steps. I expect that engagement to be initiated by my Department shortly."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Dr Aiken)","text":"That ends the period for listed questions. We will now move on to 15 minutes of topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201622%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428096","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-02-25&docID=428905#AQO%201622/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428096"}},{"id":"427056","reference":"AQW 22139/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-07","answerBy":"2025-02-24","answered":"2025-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the impact that the increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions will have on the ability of children with special educational needs and disabilities to attend school through home-to-school transport.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the delivery of school transport and this includes the management of contracts with private transport operators. Transport is provided for around 10,000 pupils with a statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) who have additional transport requirements and over half of these pupils are transported through the use of the EA’s own bus fleet. Transport for the remainder of these pupils with SEN is provided through contracts the EA holds with private bus and taxi operators.\n\nThe increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions represents an additional cost to education, including the home to school transport service delivered by the EA. The delivery of transport for eligible pupils, however, is a statutory duty and there is no indication that pupils with SEN will be negatively impacted by this increase. The Chancellor has stated that support will be provided for public sector employers in relation to the upcoming changes to employers' National Insurance Contributions. That said, the quantum has not yet been confirmed by HM Treasury. I can assure you that I will strongly advocate for these additional costs to the education sector to be met in full, as will my Executive colleagues for their departments.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the delivery of school transport and this includes the management of contracts with private transport operators. Transport is provided for around 10,000 pupils with a statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) who have additional transport requirements and over half of these pupils are transported through the use of the EA’s own bus fleet. Transport for the remainder of these pupils with SEN is provided through contracts the EA holds with private bus and taxi operators.
The increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions represents an additional cost to education, including the home to school transport service delivered by the EA. The delivery of transport for eligible pupils, however, is a statutory duty and there is no indication that pupils with SEN will be negatively impacted by this increase. The Chancellor has stated that support will be provided for public sector employers in relation to the upcoming changes to employers' National Insurance Contributions. That said, the quantum has not yet been confirmed by HM Treasury. I can assure you that I will strongly advocate for these additional costs to the education sector to be met in full, as will my Executive colleagues for their departments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022139%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427056","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427056"}},{"id":"426974","reference":"AQO 1574/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-06","answerBy":"2025-02-18","answered":"2025-02-18","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department will conduct research into whether there are any health inequalities faced by people living in rural areas regarding cancer diagnoses.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"My Department is committed to ensuring equitable and timely access to cancer diagnosis and treatment for all residents in Northern Ireland, regardless of location. It is important to understand whether individuals in rural areas face different challenges or barriers compared with those in urban areas when it comes to a cancer diagnosis. We have to understand any differences that exist. Therefore, my Department funded the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry at Queen's University Belfast to develop a research project on routes to diagnosis. That project aims to identify the key event in each cancer patient's pathway that most directly led to their cancer diagnosis, whether that was through a GP red-flag referral, a screening programme, an emergency department or any other route. The project also examines the cancer stage at diagnosis by the route of diagnosis. The research will highlight any demographic inequalities in the diagnostic routes that need to be addressed. Identifying and addressing those disparities is essential to promoting early cancer detection, improving survival rates and reducing cancer mortality for all. The most recent report of the project, published in 2024, provides findings for patients who were diagnosed in the period 2018-2020. It includes analysis by demographic characteristics, such as age, sex, trust area and social deprivation. The Northern Ireland Cancer Registry is now working on a follow-up report for patients diagnosed between 2018 and 2021, which will provide an analysis of their routes to diagnosis and of the differences between those who live in urban and rural locations."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"The Minister recently attended the excellent \"Nip it in the Bud\" event in the Long Gallery, which was held by the Farming Community Network and Macmillan Cancer Support. He will be aware that people in rural areas with an advanced cancer diagnosis are 5% less likely to survive than people in urban areas with an advanced cancer diagnosis, which is completely unacceptable. I appreciate his answer about routes to a diagnosis and wonder what else he is doing to reduce the barriers to cancer care in farming and rural areas?"},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"I will take a broader run at answering the Member's question. He will be aware that the area of health inequalities is where I want to put a focus in my remaining time as Minister. The term \"health inequalities\" is almost shorthand for three things: inequalities, as in outcomes; health inequities, as in access to healthcare; and health literacy, because people in some areas, particularly areas of deprivation, do not know how to navigate the health and social care system in the way that Members might. The rural challenges are greater than the urban challenges. The Live Better initiative to tackle health inequalities is running in two demonstration areas. Those areas were deliberately chosen because they are tight urban areas, so the empirical evidence can be collected more easily, which will be much harder to do over a rural geographic spread. That does not mean that we are going to ignore the rural areas."},{"speaker":"","text":"It just means that I need to be able to go back to my Executive colleagues and say, \"Here is really solid empirical evidence that these interventions work. Now we are going to face the test of making them work in rural areas, which are more challenging\". That will include cancer diagnosis and treatment."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"We move to topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201574%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426974","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-02-18&docID=427948#AQO%201574/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426974"}},{"id":"426940","reference":"AQO 1540/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-06","answerBy":"2025-02-17","answered":"2025-02-17","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline what steps they are taking to ensure their Department’s communication on social media is accessible to everyone.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly (The deputy First Minister)","text":"The Executive Office is committed to ensuring that the information and services that it provides are fully accessible to all parts of the community. That includes its communication on social media. The Executive information service (EIS) has provided accessibility training for its communications staff to enable them to understand the specific challenges of some users and the communication formats that are best suited to those users' needs. In addition, EIS has established a social media working group, a key objective of which is to share expertise, best practice and learning on accessibility. The practical steps that have been taken to support the accessibility of social media content across all platforms include: using alt text and descriptive captions for all images; adding subtitles to every video published on the Department’s social media platforms; ensuring that low contrast images are not used; using clear language on posts; and including only links that make it clear where the user is being directed to."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the deputy First Minister for that answer. Does the deputy First Minister agree that it is important to make social media content accessible to people with visual impairments and that functions such as alt text image descriptions aid understanding and make social media more inclusive?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly","text":"Indeed. That is why the Department has led the way in doing that and has done so for a considerable time. We try to focus on the accessibility aspect of all our social media posts. As I indicated, that includes that, where we use videos, we try to subtitle them. We also make things as clear as possible and use the plainest language possible."},{"speaker":"Ms Flynn","text":"Will the deputy First Minister further detail how the Executive Office ensures equality of opportunity for all?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly","text":"I thank the Member for her question. The Member is aware that the Department is under the equality duty set out in section 75, as all Departments and public bodies are. We take that duty seriously. It is important to us that we are able to communicate our strategies and other information, including on the things that we do day in, day out, to the maximum number of people in the clearest possible way. That is why training of our comms people has taken place to ensure that they are fully aware of the range of tools that they have by which to make that communication clearer and fulfil our equality obligations."},{"speaker":"Ms Forsythe","text":"How important does the deputy First Minister think that the role of social media was in recent communications about storm Éowyn?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly","text":"I thank the Member for her question. We are all aware that the way in which we communicate has changed. It is no longer through just radio, TV programmes and news channels; a huge number of people now get their information from social media. People choose more and more to get their news and information from those sources. It is therefore incredibly important that we maximise the use of those sources. That is what I endeavoured to do during the storm. Everyone in the Chamber will be conscious that we do not have social media managers in our capacity as MLAs but rather that we do an awful lot of that ourselves, on top of all the other activities that we participate in. I have no doubt that all of us, individually, could get better at that, and I think that we are trying to improve. However, an important part of our job is to communicate on a regular basis, and that was exactly what I endeavoured to do during the storm in order to get that communication out."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201540%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426940","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-02-17&docID=427947#AQO%201540/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426940"}},{"id":"425809","reference":"AQW 21525/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he plans to bring Northern Ireland into line with Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland by setting a target date for a smoke-free society.","answerText":"The Ten-Year Tobacco Control Strategy for Northern Ireland has an overall aim to create a tobacco-free society. A final review of the Strategy, published in September 2023, acknowledged stakeholder support for a smoke-free target date for Northern Ireland.\n\nPreliminary work on a new Tobacco Control Strategy for Northern Ireland had commenced late 2023. Given the introduction of the UK-wide Tobacco and Vapes Bill, the Department’s focus in the immediate term is supporting inclusion of provisions in respect of Northern Ireland in the Bill and its implementation. The Bill offers a unique opportunity to save lives and has the potential to make a significant impact on smoking prevalence rates here.\n\nMy Department will then identify the remaining challenges, including further consideration of a smoke-free target date, which will be the focus of a successor tobacco control strategy for NI. It will be important that the setting of such ambitious targets includes considered, resourced and realistic plans as to how to achieve the target. The current strategy continues to provide strategic direction in the meantime.","answerHtml":"The Ten-Year Tobacco Control Strategy for Northern Ireland has an overall aim to create a tobacco-free society. A final review of the Strategy, published in September 2023, acknowledged stakeholder support for a smoke-free target date for Northern Ireland.
Preliminary work on a new Tobacco Control Strategy for Northern Ireland had commenced late 2023. Given the introduction of the UK-wide Tobacco and Vapes Bill, the Department’s focus in the immediate term is supporting inclusion of provisions in respect of Northern Ireland in the Bill and its implementation. The Bill offers a unique opportunity to save lives and has the potential to make a significant impact on smoking prevalence rates here.
My Department will then identify the remaining challenges, including further consideration of a smoke-free target date, which will be the focus of a successor tobacco control strategy for NI. It will be important that the setting of such ambitious targets includes considered, resourced and realistic plans as to how to achieve the target. The current strategy continues to provide strategic direction in the meantime.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021525%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425809","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425809"}},{"id":"425808","reference":"AQW 21524/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when the respiratory tranche two priorities, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, will be taken forward through working groups.","answerText":"Sub groups for the respiratory tranche two priorities will be established in Spring 2025. Areas of focus will include:\n\n•Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)\n\n•Non-invasive ventilation\n\n•Sleep\n\n•Home oxygen/community respiratory services\n\n•Other areas including bronchiectasis, pulmonary rehabilitation and\n\nothers","answerHtml":"Sub groups for the respiratory tranche two priorities will be established in Spring 2025. Areas of focus will include:
•Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
•Non-invasive ventilation
•Sleep
•Home oxygen/community respiratory services
•Other areas including bronchiectasis, pulmonary rehabilitation and
others
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021524%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425808","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425808"}},{"id":"425807","reference":"AQW 21523/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when the next meeting of the Respiratory Forum will take place.","answerText":"The Respiratory Forum has yet to be established and it is anticipated that it will be convened in Summer 2025.","answerHtml":"The Respiratory Forum has yet to be established and it is anticipated that it will be convened in Summer 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021523%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425807","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425807"}},{"id":"425806","reference":"AQW 21522/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the tranche one respiratory working groups (i) adult asthma; (ii) paediatrics; (iii) interstitial lung disease; and (iv) primary care.","answerText":"Tranche one of the respiratory priorities are continuing to progress.\n\nPlease find updates on the four working groups below:\n\nAdult Asthma\n\nThe Adult Asthma Sub Group members have agreed to use the basis of the ACC Consensus Pathway – Management of Uncontrolled Asthma in Adults produced by the AHSN Network and adjust it for a gold standard service for NI. This pathway examines various stages of treatment and care for people living with asthma:\n\nIndicators of Uncontrolled Asthma\n\nPrimary Care\n\nSecondary Care\n\nSevere Asthma Centre/Hub for more specialist care\n\nThe group noted the main challenge being timely diagnosis and management of asthma. Members agreed that access to diagnostic testing is fundamental for the intermediate care model to be successful and highlighted an interdependency with the Diagnostic in Primary Care Sub Group work. The next meeting of Adult Asthma Sub group is scheduled for 20 February 2025.\n\nPaediatrics\n\nWork is yet to progress on this area. The working groups (1. Complex Respiratory 2. Sleep and 3. Asthma) are yet to meet as yet as colleagues are exploring if an existing forum, Northern Ireland Paediatric Respiratory and Allergy Network (NIPRAN) would be better placed to lead on this work to avoid duplication and discussions on how this is taken forward are being advanced in Spring 2025. As these pathways reflect NICE guidance with a hub and spoke model with the Belfast Children’s Hospital as the hub, it is felt that building on existing soft networks across paediatrics in NI will be relatively straightforward. However, this group will need to consider additional areas of improvement and therefore investment in 2025/26.\n\nInterstitial Lung Disease (ILD)\n\nDuring a series of online workshops over the summer of 2024, members reviewed current levels of service delivery across Northern Ireland and highlighted 5 priority areas for improvement and with that information develop a service pathway for patients. These are:\n\nPrimary Care Education\n\nStandards of Care\n\nProformas\n\nData Driven Change\n\nCommunity and Co-ordination\n\nA short term aim of the Sub Group is to agree an optimal pathway for ILD in NI. A workshop took place in September 2024 where stakeholders considered and discussed options. An agreed optimal pathway has now been developed and a further workshop is being organised to take place in April to explore implementation.\n\nPrimary Care Diagnostics Sub Group\n\nThe aim of the Sub Group is to develop a new service model for carrying out diagnostics in Primary Care. Scoping and exploration of a new service model is being carried out and a draft position paper is currently being developed for submission to SPPG to consider this as a priority for investment in 25/26.\n\nThe 3 options include:\n\nReturn to the pre-covid model of provision\n\nA GP Practice based hub model\n\nA mobile hub and spoke model","answerHtml":"Tranche one of the respiratory priorities are continuing to progress.
Please find updates on the four working groups below:
Adult Asthma
The Adult Asthma Sub Group members have agreed to use the basis of the ACC Consensus Pathway – Management of Uncontrolled Asthma in Adults produced by the AHSN Network and adjust it for a gold standard service for NI. This pathway examines various stages of treatment and care for people living with asthma:
Indicators of Uncontrolled Asthma
Primary Care
Secondary Care
Severe Asthma Centre/Hub for more specialist care
The group noted the main challenge being timely diagnosis and management of asthma. Members agreed that access to diagnostic testing is fundamental for the intermediate care model to be successful and highlighted an interdependency with the Diagnostic in Primary Care Sub Group work. The next meeting of Adult Asthma Sub group is scheduled for 20 February 2025.
Paediatrics
Work is yet to progress on this area. The working groups (1. Complex Respiratory 2. Sleep and 3. Asthma) are yet to meet as yet as colleagues are exploring if an existing forum, Northern Ireland Paediatric Respiratory and Allergy Network (NIPRAN) would be better placed to lead on this work to avoid duplication and discussions on how this is taken forward are being advanced in Spring 2025. As these pathways reflect NICE guidance with a hub and spoke model with the Belfast Children’s Hospital as the hub, it is felt that building on existing soft networks across paediatrics in NI will be relatively straightforward. However, this group will need to consider additional areas of improvement and therefore investment in 2025/26.
Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)
During a series of online workshops over the summer of 2024, members reviewed current levels of service delivery across Northern Ireland and highlighted 5 priority areas for improvement and with that information develop a service pathway for patients. These are:
Primary Care Education
Standards of Care
Proformas
Data Driven Change
Community and Co-ordination
A short term aim of the Sub Group is to agree an optimal pathway for ILD in NI. A workshop took place in September 2024 where stakeholders considered and discussed options. An agreed optimal pathway has now been developed and a further workshop is being organised to take place in April to explore implementation.
Primary Care Diagnostics Sub Group
The aim of the Sub Group is to develop a new service model for carrying out diagnostics in Primary Care. Scoping and exploration of a new service model is being carried out and a draft position paper is currently being developed for submission to SPPG to consider this as a priority for investment in 25/26.
The 3 options include:
Return to the pre-covid model of provision
A GP Practice based hub model
A mobile hub and spoke model
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021522%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425806","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425806"}},{"id":"425805","reference":"AQW 21521/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on progression towards delivering a lung health strategy, including any timescales planned by his Department.","answerText":"I have asked my officials to focus their efforts on the current 4 areas of improving services for adult asthma, interstitial lung disease, children’s specialist respiratory care and diagnostics in primary care.\n\nI recognise the need to formalise these work streams into a plan for Northern Ireland, that builds on these priorities and extends into other areas such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), oxygen therapy and others in 2025/26 and beyond. I have asked officials to develop this plan for discussion and presentation by April 2025 and include within that process discussion with the All-Party Group. This plan will be formalised with a reporting structure, lead officials and clinicians, timescales and milestones for transparent monitoring.","answerHtml":"I have asked my officials to focus their efforts on the current 4 areas of improving services for adult asthma, interstitial lung disease, children’s specialist respiratory care and diagnostics in primary care.
I recognise the need to formalise these work streams into a plan for Northern Ireland, that builds on these priorities and extends into other areas such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), oxygen therapy and others in 2025/26 and beyond. I have asked officials to develop this plan for discussion and presentation by April 2025 and include within that process discussion with the All-Party Group. This plan will be formalised with a reporting structure, lead officials and clinicians, timescales and milestones for transparent monitoring.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021521%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425805","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425805"}},{"id":"427017","reference":"AQO 1492/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-23","answerBy":"2025-02-04","answered":"2025-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of the potential impact of climate change on the local food system.","answerText":"AQO 1492/22-27\n\nAnswer:\n\nThere is no question that the increasing frequency of extreme weather conditions is having and will continue to have wide ranging impacts on the food system in Northern Ireland.\n\nClimate-induced extreme weather events, such as flooding and droughts, pose a serious threat to communities by affecting food production, processing, storage and distribution. These heighten concerns over supply chains, food security and livelihoods.\n\nWe need to develop more circular, secure and sustainable food production systems on a local level. On top of this, resilience will need to be built into supply chains to ensure a fair and even distribution of available food. These threats underline the need for transformations within the agri-food sector and as such my department is investigating potential impacts and mitigations through several strands of complementary research.\n\nIn the first instance, part of understanding the impact of climate change on our local food systems is understanding what our climate will look like in the future. Then it is necessary to be able to prepare for and mitigate against these predicted changes. DAERA is therefore engaging in a range of research activities related to climate change and food systems. These include research to develop climate projections, investigation into the expansion of sustainable production systems and scenario modelling of novel crops.\n\nFarmers will be key to our future food security. My department’s new Sustainable Agriculture Programme is being co-designed with the Northern Ireland agricultural industry and other key food and environmental stakeholders. Through striving to achieve its four outcomes of improved environmental sustainability, enhanced productivity, stronger resilience and an effective functioning supply chain, this Programme will have a key role in the delivery of my key priorities.\n\nImportantly the Schemes being introduced will be essential levers in contributing to Northern Ireland’s statutory obligations under the Climate Change Act (NI) 2022 and achieving a genuinely Just Transition.\n\nIn addition, the College of Agriculture Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) is actively addressing the impact of climate change in the agri-food sector. Knowledge transfer and education programmes are targeting the sector’s decarbonisation, focusing on improving the productivity, delivering improvements in environmental sustainability, resilience and supply chain integration.\n\nThe strong focus on sustainability across CAFRE’s education provision is also equipping new entrants, and those already working within the agri-food industry with the knowledge and skills required to positively embrace the climate change agenda and build resilience.\n\nI am focused on ensuring longer term solutions to prevent crises and preserve our food security. As an example, I recently published the Northern Ireland Food Strategy Framework, which seeks to build environmentally sustainable and resilient food systems. The Framework recognises the increased possibility of supply chain disruption due to the impacts of climate change.\n\nIn combination, these actions will facilitate the adaptation of food and farming systems to become more resilient to changes and ensure the integral parts of the Northern Ireland food system work together to mitigate risk created by climate change along the food supply chain.","answerHtml":"AQO 1492/22-27
Answer:
There is no question that the increasing frequency of extreme weather conditions is having and will continue to have wide ranging impacts on the food system in Northern Ireland.
Climate-induced extreme weather events, such as flooding and droughts, pose a serious threat to communities by affecting food production, processing, storage and distribution. These heighten concerns over supply chains, food security and livelihoods.
We need to develop more circular, secure and sustainable food production systems on a local level. On top of this, resilience will need to be built into supply chains to ensure a fair and even distribution of available food. These threats underline the need for transformations within the agri-food sector and as such my department is investigating potential impacts and mitigations through several strands of complementary research.
In the first instance, part of understanding the impact of climate change on our local food systems is understanding what our climate will look like in the future. Then it is necessary to be able to prepare for and mitigate against these predicted changes. DAERA is therefore engaging in a range of research activities related to climate change and food systems. These include research to develop climate projections, investigation into the expansion of sustainable production systems and scenario modelling of novel crops.
Farmers will be key to our future food security. My department’s new Sustainable Agriculture Programme is being co-designed with the Northern Ireland agricultural industry and other key food and environmental stakeholders. Through striving to achieve its four outcomes of improved environmental sustainability, enhanced productivity, stronger resilience and an effective functioning supply chain, this Programme will have a key role in the delivery of my key priorities.
Importantly the Schemes being introduced will be essential levers in contributing to Northern Ireland’s statutory obligations under the Climate Change Act (NI) 2022 and achieving a genuinely Just Transition.
In addition, the College of Agriculture Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) is actively addressing the impact of climate change in the agri-food sector. Knowledge transfer and education programmes are targeting the sector’s decarbonisation, focusing on improving the productivity, delivering improvements in environmental sustainability, resilience and supply chain integration.
The strong focus on sustainability across CAFRE’s education provision is also equipping new entrants, and those already working within the agri-food industry with the knowledge and skills required to positively embrace the climate change agenda and build resilience.
I am focused on ensuring longer term solutions to prevent crises and preserve our food security. As an example, I recently published the Northern Ireland Food Strategy Framework, which seeks to build environmentally sustainable and resilient food systems. The Framework recognises the increased possibility of supply chain disruption due to the impacts of climate change.
In combination, these actions will facilitate the adaptation of food and farming systems to become more resilient to changes and ensure the integral parts of the Northern Ireland food system work together to mitigate risk created by climate change along the food supply chain.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201492%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427017","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427017"}},{"id":"447114","reference":"AQO 1475/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-23","answerBy":"2025-02-03","answered":"2025-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the Connect project, based in the Altnagelvin and Ulster Hospital Emergency Departments.","answerText":"ORAL QUESTION No 10 - AQO 1475/22-27\n\nANSWER\n\nCONNECT is an innovative, evidence-led project funded by the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) and delivered by the Education Authority. It sees youth workers based in the Emergency Departments of hospitals working with young people aged 15-25, who are often vulnerable to harm and at what the youth workers call a ‘reachable moment’. Currently, the hospitals involved are Altnagelvin, the Ulster Hospital and Craigavon Area Hospital.\n\nIn 2023/24, alone, the project supported 1,416 vulnerable young people. through practical support and aftercare. Significantly, these follow up sessions often help the young person to develop their capacity for self-support.\n\nEPPOC evaluations of the project show that almost half of the young people supported by CONNECT had had contact with the justice system in the three months prior to engaging with the project.\n\nAfter participation in the CONNECT project, young people involved were less likely to attend the Emergency Department, or to engage in unlawful behaviour, or be exposed to violence. They were also less likely to screen for probable depression; and more likely to be employed.\n\nThe investment in this project is relatively small, but the returns are significant - not just for young people but for the health and justice systems too. This shows that we can work across silos and sectors to help our constituents. This is the way we should be thinking about policy delivery across the Executive.","answerHtml":"ORAL QUESTION No 10 - AQO 1475/22-27
ANSWER
CONNECT is an innovative, evidence-led project funded by the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) and delivered by the Education Authority. It sees youth workers based in the Emergency Departments of hospitals working with young people aged 15-25, who are often vulnerable to harm and at what the youth workers call a ‘reachable moment’. Currently, the hospitals involved are Altnagelvin, the Ulster Hospital and Craigavon Area Hospital.
In 2023/24, alone, the project supported 1,416 vulnerable young people. through practical support and aftercare. Significantly, these follow up sessions often help the young person to develop their capacity for self-support.
EPPOC evaluations of the project show that almost half of the young people supported by CONNECT had had contact with the justice system in the three months prior to engaging with the project.
After participation in the CONNECT project, young people involved were less likely to attend the Emergency Department, or to engage in unlawful behaviour, or be exposed to violence. They were also less likely to screen for probable depression; and more likely to be employed.
The investment in this project is relatively small, but the returns are significant - not just for young people but for the health and justice systems too. This shows that we can work across silos and sectors to help our constituents. This is the way we should be thinking about policy delivery across the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201475%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447114"}},{"id":"423876","reference":"AQW 20704/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-16","answerBy":"2025-01-31","answered":"2025-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans he has to (i) open diagnostic services twelve hours per day; and (ii) make diagnostic services available seven days a week.","answerText":"Diagnostic services include a wide range of imaging, pathology and other tests which clinicians request in all healthcare settings to help identify illness and determine treatment pathways for their patients. Many of these services are provided on evenings, weekends and on a 24/7 basis.\n\nThe 2024 Elective Care Framework and the more recent May 2025 Implementation and Funding Plan, sets out clear proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards. It will also detail how we will invest in and transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in future.\n\nThe Executive has ringfenced up to £215m in this year’s Health budget for waiting list activities and £12m of this funding has been earmarked for the expansion of diagnostic services. This funding will be used to expand MRI, CT and NOUS capacity across the region in core hours, evenings and weekends, as outlined in the May 2025 Implementation and Funding Plan.","answerHtml":"Diagnostic services include a wide range of imaging, pathology and other tests which clinicians request in all healthcare settings to help identify illness and determine treatment pathways for their patients. Many of these services are provided on evenings, weekends and on a 24/7 basis.
The 2024 Elective Care Framework and the more recent May 2025 Implementation and Funding Plan, sets out clear proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards. It will also detail how we will invest in and transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in future.
The Executive has ringfenced up to £215m in this year’s Health budget for waiting list activities and £12m of this funding has been earmarked for the expansion of diagnostic services. This funding will be used to expand MRI, CT and NOUS capacity across the region in core hours, evenings and weekends, as outlined in the May 2025 Implementation and Funding Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020704%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423876","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423876"}},{"id":"423875","reference":"AQW 20703/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-16","answerBy":"2025-01-31","answered":"2025-01-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 19977/22-27, to detail the percentage of eligible groups that have received the influenza vaccine as of 6 January 2025.","answerText":"The table below shows the percentage uptake of the seasonal 2024/25 influenza vaccination by eligible group, on or before 6 January 2025.\n\nEligible group\tVaccine uptake (%)\n65 years and over\t71.6%\n18-64 years ‘at risk’\t40.7%\nCare Home residents\t79.8%\nCare Home staff\t6.4%\nAll Trust-employed health and social care workers\t18.7%\nPre-school children\t29.4%\nPrimary school children\t56.8%\nPost Primary school children\t53.7%\n\nThe influenza vaccination programme was extended to include all 50 to 64-year-olds from 15th January 2025. Therefore, vaccination uptake will be recorded differently from 15th January, to include a separate 50–64-year-old cohort and a 18–49-year-old ‘at risk’ category.\n\n*Notes:\n\nAll data is provisional.\n\nData sources include Northern Ireland Vaccine Management System and Trust school nursing returns.\n\nData extracted 21/01/2025 with date of vaccination on/before 06/01/2025.\n\nIt is important to note that vaccinations are added retrospectively to VMS, therefore this comparison may include a number of vaccinations administered prior to 06/01/2025 but recorded on VMS after that date.","answerHtml":"The table below shows the percentage uptake of the seasonal 2024/25 influenza vaccination by eligible group, on or before 6 January 2025.
| Eligible group | Vaccine uptake (%) |
| 65 years and over | 71.6% |
| 18-64 years ‘at risk’ | 40.7% |
| Care Home residents | 79.8% |
| Care Home staff | 6.4% |
| All Trust-employed health and social care workers | 18.7% |
| Pre-school children | 29.4% |
| Primary school children | 56.8% |
| Post Primary school children | 53.7% |
The influenza vaccination programme was extended to include all 50 to 64-year-olds from 15th January 2025. Therefore, vaccination uptake will be recorded differently from 15th January, to include a separate 50–64-year-old cohort and a 18–49-year-old ‘at risk’ category.
*Notes:
All data is provisional.
Data sources include Northern Ireland Vaccine Management System and Trust school nursing returns.
Data extracted 21/01/2025 with date of vaccination on/before 06/01/2025.
It is important to note that vaccinations are added retrospectively to VMS, therefore this comparison may include a number of vaccinations administered prior to 06/01/2025 but recorded on VMS after that date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020703%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423875","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423875"}},{"id":"423874","reference":"AQW 20702/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-16","answerBy":"2025-01-31","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of Health and Social Care Trusts that operate discharge lounges.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020702%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423874","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423874"}},{"id":"423873","reference":"AQW 20701/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-16","answerBy":"2025-01-31","answered":"2025-01-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of Northern Ireland Ambulance Service paramedics that have retired or left the service in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The number of members of staff who were graded as paramedics that left the NI Ambulance Service (NIAS) is included in the table below for each of the last five financial years. (Data for 2023/24 is included up to June 2024.)\n\nTable 1 – No. of Paramedics that left NIAS from 2019/20 – 2023/24\n\nYear\tNo. of Staff\n2019/20\t12\n2020/21\t7\n2021/22\t11\n2022/23\t13\n2023/24 (up to June 2024)\t17\n\nThe information includes all members of staff graded as a Paramedic, RRV (rapid response vehicle) Paramedic or HEMS (Helicopter Emergency Medical Service) Advanced Paramedic. It excludes any NIAS Paramedic who moved to a new role within NIAS.","answerHtml":"The number of members of staff who were graded as paramedics that left the NI Ambulance Service (NIAS) is included in the table below for each of the last five financial years. (Data for 2023/24 is included up to June 2024.)
Table 1 – No. of Paramedics that left NIAS from 2019/20 – 2023/24
| Year | No. of Staff |
| 2019/20 | 12 |
| 2020/21 | 7 |
| 2021/22 | 11 |
| 2022/23 | 13 |
| 2023/24 (up to June 2024) | 17 |
The information includes all members of staff graded as a Paramedic, RRV (rapid response vehicle) Paramedic or HEMS (Helicopter Emergency Medical Service) Advanced Paramedic. It excludes any NIAS Paramedic who moved to a new role within NIAS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020701%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423873","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423873"}},{"id":"423767","reference":"AQW 20612/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-15","answerBy":"2025-01-23","answered":"2025-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the status of the Integrated Care Hub operating at the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service control centre; and (ii) whether it is fully funded to continue to operate indefinitely.","answerText":"NIAS has fully established its Integrated Clinical Hub (ICH) and it is in operation 24-hours per day, 7-days per week with an ICH Service Manager, 8 Clinical Support Managers (CSM) and 23-24 Clinicians in post. In addition, Mental Health Practitioners operate within the ICH, in collaboration with the South Eastern Trust, and provide cover on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.\n\nAll clinicians within the ICH are either HCPC Registered Paramedics or NMC Registered Nurses with at least two years’ post registration relevant clinical experience and complete additional training when starting in post. This training takes approximately one month and covers remote telephone assessment, the Manchester Triage System, Control room systems and receive 1:1 mentoring and training by experienced clinicians.\n\nWith senior oversight provided by the ICH service manager and CSMs, ICH clinicians assess calls and direct callers to the most appropriate health care using ‘Hear and Treat’ pathways, upgrade calls for a faster response if required, provide remote clinical advice and support to operational colleagues to use ‘See and Treat’ pathways through shared clinical decision making and provide advice to non-clinical control room colleagues.\n\nThere has been an increase (48%) in the number of patients treated by the ICH team with 8,982 patients in 2024 compared to 6,087 in 2023.\n\nRecurrent funding is in place for the ICH to continue operation for the foreseeable future, however the Mental Health Practitioner element is only funded until end of the financial year 2025.","answerHtml":"NIAS has fully established its Integrated Clinical Hub (ICH) and it is in operation 24-hours per day, 7-days per week with an ICH Service Manager, 8 Clinical Support Managers (CSM) and 23-24 Clinicians in post. In addition, Mental Health Practitioners operate within the ICH, in collaboration with the South Eastern Trust, and provide cover on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.
All clinicians within the ICH are either HCPC Registered Paramedics or NMC Registered Nurses with at least two years’ post registration relevant clinical experience and complete additional training when starting in post. This training takes approximately one month and covers remote telephone assessment, the Manchester Triage System, Control room systems and receive 1:1 mentoring and training by experienced clinicians.
With senior oversight provided by the ICH service manager and CSMs, ICH clinicians assess calls and direct callers to the most appropriate health care using ‘Hear and Treat’ pathways, upgrade calls for a faster response if required, provide remote clinical advice and support to operational colleagues to use ‘See and Treat’ pathways through shared clinical decision making and provide advice to non-clinical control room colleagues.
There has been an increase (48%) in the number of patients treated by the ICH team with 8,982 patients in 2024 compared to 6,087 in 2023.
Recurrent funding is in place for the ICH to continue operation for the foreseeable future, however the Mental Health Practitioner element is only funded until end of the financial year 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020612%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423767","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423767"}},{"id":"423766","reference":"AQW 20611/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-15","answerBy":"2025-01-30","answered":"2025-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of bed days in hospital wards that were lost due to cut offs imposed by nursing homes in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The five Health and Social Care Trusts do not record information on the number of beds days in hospital wards that were lost due to cut offs imposed by nursing homes.","answerHtml":"The five Health and Social Care Trusts do not record information on the number of beds days in hospital wards that were lost due to cut offs imposed by nursing homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020611%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423766","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423766"}},{"id":"423765","reference":"AQW 20610/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-15","answerBy":"2025-01-30","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of bed days in hospital wards that were lost due to patients awaiting equipment or adaptations in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020610%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423765","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423765"}},{"id":"423764","reference":"AQW 20609/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-15","answerBy":"2025-01-30","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of bed days in hospital wards that were lost due to patient or family resistance in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020609%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423764","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423764"}},{"id":"423763","reference":"AQW 20608/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-15","answerBy":"2025-01-30","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of bed days in hospital wards that were lost due to patients awaiting social care packages or care placements in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020608%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423763","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423763"}},{"id":"423049","reference":"AQW 20236/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-24","answered":"2025-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQO 266/22-27, for an update on the progress made by his Department on their assessment of the April 2024 Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health report Worried and Waiting.","answerText":"Information on the whole-time equivalent (WTE) number of HSC Trust employed dentists in the years 2018 to 2024 is detailed in the tables below.\n\nTable 1 presents figures on community dentists who are those directly employed by HSC Trusts. Community dentists provide dental services to patients with special care needs who are unable to attend a general dental practice because of their particular care needs.\n\nTable 2 presents figures on other Trust-employed dentists, including consultants, specialty dentists and sessional practitioners working in areas such as oral surgery, maxillo-facial surgery, orthodontics and restorative dentistry.\n\nTable 1: HSC Community Dentists Employed 1 (Whole-Time Equivalent) at 30 June, 2018-2024 by HSC Trust\n\nPosition at 30 June:\tBelfast HSC Trust\tNorthern HSC Trust\tSouth Eastern HSC Trust\tSouthern HSC Trust\tWestern HSC Trust\tTotal\n2018\t12.61\t17.16\t14.11\t11.92\t7.57\t63.36\n2019\t14.75\t16.35\t14.31\t11.28\t8.50\t65.19\n2020\t15.13\t15.74\t15.51\t12.88\t10.29\t69.55\n2021\t14.13\t14.12\t15.18\t11.79\t10.07\t65.29\n2022\t13.29\t14.57\t13.86\t12.60\t10.46\t64.78\n2023\t11.69\t15.00\t14.36\t14.09\t11.06\t66.21\n2024\t12.15\t15.94\t14.61\t12.97\t10.15\t65.83\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\nTable 2: HSC Hospital Dentists Employed2 (Whole-Time Equivalent) at 30 June, 2018-2024 by HSC Trust\n\nBelfast HSC Trust\tNorthern HSC Trust\tSouth Eastern HSC Trust\tSouthern HSC Trust\tWestern HSC Trust\tTotal\nJun-18\t14.58\t1.40\t10.48\t1.00\t7.60\t35.05\nJun-19\t14.16\t1.40\t10.15\t0.90\t6.95\t33.56\nJun-20\t15.03\t1.80\t12.10\t0.90\t5.00\t34.83\nJun-21\t16.21\t1.40\t12.05\t0.90\t6.00\t36.56\nJun-22\t21.45\t1.40\t10.16\t0.96\t7.00\t40.97\nJun-23\t20.90\t1.20\t9.16\t1.66\t6.90\t39.82\nJun-24\t20.91\t1.20\t9.56\t1.66\t6.90\t40.23\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\n2 Figures do not include staff on dental foundation or specialty training.","answerHtml":"Information on the whole-time equivalent (WTE) number of HSC Trust employed dentists in the years 2018 to 2024 is detailed in the tables below.
Table 1 presents figures on community dentists who are those directly employed by HSC Trusts. Community dentists provide dental services to patients with special care needs who are unable to attend a general dental practice because of their particular care needs.
Table 2 presents figures on other Trust-employed dentists, including consultants, specialty dentists and sessional practitioners working in areas such as oral surgery, maxillo-facial surgery, orthodontics and restorative dentistry.
Table 1: HSC Community Dentists Employed 1 (Whole-Time Equivalent) at 30 June, 2018-2024 by HSC Trust
| Position at 30 June: | Belfast HSC Trust | Northern HSC Trust | South Eastern HSC Trust | Southern HSC Trust | Western HSC Trust | Total |
| 2018 | 12.61 | 17.16 | 14.11 | 11.92 | 7.57 | 63.36 |
| 2019 | 14.75 | 16.35 | 14.31 | 11.28 | 8.50 | 65.19 |
| 2020 | 15.13 | 15.74 | 15.51 | 12.88 | 10.29 | 69.55 |
| 2021 | 14.13 | 14.12 | 15.18 | 11.79 | 10.07 | 65.29 |
| 2022 | 13.29 | 14.57 | 13.86 | 12.60 | 10.46 | 64.78 |
| 2023 | 11.69 | 15.00 | 14.36 | 14.09 | 11.06 | 66.21 |
| 2024 | 12.15 | 15.94 | 14.61 | 12.97 | 10.15 | 65.83 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
Table 2: HSC Hospital Dentists Employed2 (Whole-Time Equivalent) at 30 June, 2018-2024 by HSC Trust
| Belfast HSC Trust | Northern HSC Trust | South Eastern HSC Trust | Southern HSC Trust | Western HSC Trust | Total | |
| Jun-18 | 14.58 | 1.40 | 10.48 | 1.00 | 7.60 | 35.05 |
| Jun-19 | 14.16 | 1.40 | 10.15 | 0.90 | 6.95 | 33.56 |
| Jun-20 | 15.03 | 1.80 | 12.10 | 0.90 | 5.00 | 34.83 |
| Jun-21 | 16.21 | 1.40 | 12.05 | 0.90 | 6.00 | 36.56 |
| Jun-22 | 21.45 | 1.40 | 10.16 | 0.96 | 7.00 | 40.97 |
| Jun-23 | 20.90 | 1.20 | 9.16 | 1.66 | 6.90 | 39.82 |
| Jun-24 | 20.91 | 1.20 | 9.56 | 1.66 | 6.90 | 40.23 |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
2 Figures do not include staff on dental foundation or specialty training.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020236%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423049","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423049"}},{"id":"424994","reference":"AQO 1398/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-21","answered":"2025-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what measures will be included in the revised Integrated Education Strategy Action Plan to ensure demand for Integrated Education is effectively monitored.","answerText":"Identifying, assessing, monitoring and aiming to meet demand for Integrated Education is a complex and ongoing process.\n\nDemand comprises two distinct elements - Societal Demand and Behavioural Demand.\n\nSocietal Demand - This is evidence of demand taken from a Northern Ireland wide survey of parents on their desire for Integrated Education and the factors they consider when expressing school preferences and from parental ballots held to consider Transformation proposals.\n\nBehavioural Demand - This is evidence of demand indicated by school preference as expressed via the school admission system at entry to pre-school, primary and post-primary school by surveying parental inclination/aspirations of parents and, from parental ballots held to consider Transformation proposals.\n\nWe will use evidence from the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey to develop a more rounded understanding of societal level demand for Integrated Education.\n\nMore importantly, my Department will annually survey parents who have recently made school preference decisions via the EA admissions portal to further explore the demand for Integrated Education and analyse annual school admissions data to build up a thorough picture of demand for Integrated Education across Northern Ireland.\n\nResults from parental ballots held to weigh up Transformation proposals will also be considered to further understanding of societal and behavioural demand for Integrated Education as expressed by parents.\n\nDuring 2025, and annually thereafter, my Department will develop and publish a report on demand for Integrated Education informed by the evidence gathered. I expect the EA will use this report to meet its statutory obligation to aim to meet demand for Integrated Education.","answerHtml":"Identifying, assessing, monitoring and aiming to meet demand for Integrated Education is a complex and ongoing process.
Demand comprises two distinct elements - Societal Demand and Behavioural Demand.
Societal Demand - This is evidence of demand taken from a Northern Ireland wide survey of parents on their desire for Integrated Education and the factors they consider when expressing school preferences and from parental ballots held to consider Transformation proposals.
Behavioural Demand - This is evidence of demand indicated by school preference as expressed via the school admission system at entry to pre-school, primary and post-primary school by surveying parental inclination/aspirations of parents and, from parental ballots held to consider Transformation proposals.
We will use evidence from the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey to develop a more rounded understanding of societal level demand for Integrated Education.
More importantly, my Department will annually survey parents who have recently made school preference decisions via the EA admissions portal to further explore the demand for Integrated Education and analyse annual school admissions data to build up a thorough picture of demand for Integrated Education across Northern Ireland.
Results from parental ballots held to weigh up Transformation proposals will also be considered to further understanding of societal and behavioural demand for Integrated Education as expressed by parents.
During 2025, and annually thereafter, my Department will develop and publish a report on demand for Integrated Education informed by the evidence gathered. I expect the EA will use this report to meet its statutory obligation to aim to meet demand for Integrated Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201398%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424994"}},{"id":"422529","reference":"AQW 19977/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-06","answerBy":"2025-01-09","answered":"2025-01-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the winter flu vaccination target for 2024/25; and (ii) the number of people that have received the winter flu vaccination to date.","answerText":"There are no set uptake targets for the various groups included in the annual influenza vaccination programme. The aim is to ensure the vast majority of those eligible, which is around one million people, are offered the vaccine, in line with JCVI advice, between October and December each year, before the influenza season normally begins.\n\nThe Public Health Agency, which is responsible for the operational planning and implementation of the annual influenza vaccination programme, has advised that all eligible groups have now been offered a vaccine as part of the 2024/25 programme. As of 6 January 2025 526,464, influenza vaccinations have been recorded as administered as part of this programme.","answerHtml":"There are no set uptake targets for the various groups included in the annual influenza vaccination programme. The aim is to ensure the vast majority of those eligible, which is around one million people, are offered the vaccine, in line with JCVI advice, between October and December each year, before the influenza season normally begins.
The Public Health Agency, which is responsible for the operational planning and implementation of the annual influenza vaccination programme, has advised that all eligible groups have now been offered a vaccine as part of the 2024/25 programme. As of 6 January 2025 526,464, influenza vaccinations have been recorded as administered as part of this programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019977%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=422529","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=422529"}},{"id":"421196","reference":"AQW 19625/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-10","answerBy":"2024-12-30","answered":"2024-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 17476/22-27, whether gambling harm is addressed through teaching on gambling, gaming and financial capability across several areas of the curriculum in (i) all primary schools; and (ii) all post-primary schools.","answerText":"In the Northern Ireland curriculum, the topic of gambling harm is explored through the wider themes of financial capability, risk management and making responsible choices. While the term \"gambling harm\" is not always explicitly referenced, the curriculum includes aspects that enable students to comprehend the dangers and outcomes linked to gambling and related behaviours.\n\nFinancial capability, encompassing awareness of gambling and gaming, is already established as a statutory and essential component of the curriculum. Opportunities for the teaching and learning of financial capability occur across the curriculum and through young people’s everyday experiences inside and outside school.\n\nAt primary level, financial capability is most closely associated with Mathematics and Numeracy, however, it features across all the areas of learning. For example, under Personal Development and Mutual Understanding, using the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s (CCEA) Gambling and Gaming Awareness resource, teachers can help pupils understand what gaming is, the types of games available and the associated risks. This includes the amount of time spent on gaming, in-game transactions, and the difference between ‘selected’ and ‘random’ (gambling) purchases.\n\nAt post-primary level, financial capability is further embedded across the curriculum and teachers should provide pupils with opportunities to enhance their knowledge and understanding of a range of finance issues, to develop skills that will enable them to make competent and responsible financial decisions throughout their lives. Under the Learning for Life and Work (LLW) area of learning, using CCEA’s Gambling and Gaming Awareness resource, teachers can help pupils recognise that gambling and gaming products are designed to make money, and that advertising actively promotes them. Furthermore, LLW also provides young people with opportunities to explore issues around addiction and its implications for financial wellbeing.\n\nEducating students about the risks associated with gambling is consistent with the objectives of the curriculum. These aims include promoting critical thinking and informed decision-making, providing students with the necessary skills to navigate risks in their personal and financial affairs, and tackling contemporary societal issues, such as the increasing acceptance of gambling via digital platforms.","answerHtml":"In the Northern Ireland curriculum, the topic of gambling harm is explored through the wider themes of financial capability, risk management and making responsible choices. While the term "gambling harm" is not always explicitly referenced, the curriculum includes aspects that enable students to comprehend the dangers and outcomes linked to gambling and related behaviours.
Financial capability, encompassing awareness of gambling and gaming, is already established as a statutory and essential component of the curriculum. Opportunities for the teaching and learning of financial capability occur across the curriculum and through young people’s everyday experiences inside and outside school.
At primary level, financial capability is most closely associated with Mathematics and Numeracy, however, it features across all the areas of learning. For example, under Personal Development and Mutual Understanding, using the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s (CCEA) Gambling and Gaming Awareness resource, teachers can help pupils understand what gaming is, the types of games available and the associated risks. This includes the amount of time spent on gaming, in-game transactions, and the difference between ‘selected’ and ‘random’ (gambling) purchases.
At post-primary level, financial capability is further embedded across the curriculum and teachers should provide pupils with opportunities to enhance their knowledge and understanding of a range of finance issues, to develop skills that will enable them to make competent and responsible financial decisions throughout their lives. Under the Learning for Life and Work (LLW) area of learning, using CCEA’s Gambling and Gaming Awareness resource, teachers can help pupils recognise that gambling and gaming products are designed to make money, and that advertising actively promotes them. Furthermore, LLW also provides young people with opportunities to explore issues around addiction and its implications for financial wellbeing.
Educating students about the risks associated with gambling is consistent with the objectives of the curriculum. These aims include promoting critical thinking and informed decision-making, providing students with the necessary skills to navigate risks in their personal and financial affairs, and tackling contemporary societal issues, such as the increasing acceptance of gambling via digital platforms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019625%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=421196","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=421196"}},{"id":"420245","reference":"AQW 19197/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2025-01-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of times that patients were transferred from an independent medical provider to an NHS hospital due to becoming unwell during or after treatment in each of the last five years.","answerText":"HSC Trusts do not capture this information and therefore cannot provide a conclusive answer to this question without obtaining it at disproportionate cost.","answerHtml":"HSC Trusts do not capture this information and therefore cannot provide a conclusive answer to this question without obtaining it at disproportionate cost.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019197%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420245","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420245"}},{"id":"420244","reference":"AQW 19196/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2024-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of shared care arrangements between patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and their GPs have been terminated in each of the last five years.","answerText":"My Department does not hold information on shared care arrangements which may be in place within General Practice.\n\nShared care arrangements are not between patients and GPs, they can, and must be agreed, between GPs and specialist Consultants, be that Health and Social Care (HSC) or private healthcare providers. In all cases both the GP practice and the specialist Consultant recommending the medication must be in a position to meet future monitoring and assessment requirements as set out in the shared care agreement.\n\nDecisions on whether or not to enter into a shared care arrangement are based upon the clinical judgment of the GP. When a GP considers that specialist Consultant recommended treatment is clinically appropriate; is content that the treatment falls within their clinical remit; and that if necessary appropriate shared care arrangements have been agreed with the HSC and/or private provider and the patient/carers, then they may issue an HSC prescription. However, in doing so, the GP is accepting clinical responsibility for this decision.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold information on shared care arrangements which may be in place within General Practice.
Shared care arrangements are not between patients and GPs, they can, and must be agreed, between GPs and specialist Consultants, be that Health and Social Care (HSC) or private healthcare providers. In all cases both the GP practice and the specialist Consultant recommending the medication must be in a position to meet future monitoring and assessment requirements as set out in the shared care agreement.
Decisions on whether or not to enter into a shared care arrangement are based upon the clinical judgment of the GP. When a GP considers that specialist Consultant recommended treatment is clinically appropriate; is content that the treatment falls within their clinical remit; and that if necessary appropriate shared care arrangements have been agreed with the HSC and/or private provider and the patient/carers, then they may issue an HSC prescription. However, in doing so, the GP is accepting clinical responsibility for this decision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019196%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420244","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420244"}},{"id":"420027","reference":"AQW 19113/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2024-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how he will work with the (i) Department for Infrastructure; and (ii) Department for Communities to involve the knowledge and expertise of public health professionals in plans to address the climate emergency.","answerText":"I would refer the Member to my recent response to AQW 18559/22-27.","answerHtml":"I would refer the Member to my recent response to AQW 18559/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019113%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420027","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420027"}},{"id":"420026","reference":"AQW 19112/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2024-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how he will work with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in relation to indoor air quality.","answerText":"I would refer the Member to my recent response to AQW 18558/22-27.","answerHtml":"I would refer the Member to my recent response to AQW 18558/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019112%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420026","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420026"}},{"id":"420025","reference":"AQW 19111/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2024-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the funding of the Stroke Action Plan.","answerText":"The Stroke Action plan identifies six priorities for improvement. The full implementation of priorities in respect of prevention, thrombolysis, thrombectomy and rehabilitation and long term support would require an additional £10m investment in stroke services. Costs in respect of hyperacute stroke care and the stroke workforce have not yet been identified.\n\nThe Resource budget available to my Department was insufficient to cover the significant increases in costs we are facing in 2024-25 as a result of pay and price inflation and rising demand. Consequently, there has been insufficient funding to meet all of our pressures. In this context, the focus has been on making improvements in stroke services from within current resources.\n\nLooking ahead, my Department has submitted details of additional funding requirements for stroke reform for future years to the Department of Finance as part of the Budget 2025-26 Process: Information Gathering. This information was submitted to the Department of Finance in October 2024 and will inform the Executive’s consideration of the budget for the three years 2025-28.","answerHtml":"The Stroke Action plan identifies six priorities for improvement. The full implementation of priorities in respect of prevention, thrombolysis, thrombectomy and rehabilitation and long term support would require an additional £10m investment in stroke services. Costs in respect of hyperacute stroke care and the stroke workforce have not yet been identified.
The Resource budget available to my Department was insufficient to cover the significant increases in costs we are facing in 2024-25 as a result of pay and price inflation and rising demand. Consequently, there has been insufficient funding to meet all of our pressures. In this context, the focus has been on making improvements in stroke services from within current resources.
Looking ahead, my Department has submitted details of additional funding requirements for stroke reform for future years to the Department of Finance as part of the Budget 2025-26 Process: Information Gathering. This information was submitted to the Department of Finance in October 2024 and will inform the Executive’s consideration of the budget for the three years 2025-28.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019111%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420025","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420025"}},{"id":"419781","reference":"AQW 19035/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-29","answerBy":"2024-12-16","answered":"2024-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) who owns the data held by encompass; (ii) how the data is stored; (iii) whether the data is accessible and searchable by the Health and Social Care Trusts; and (iv) whether the data can be accessed for clinical research purposes.","answerText":"HSC organisations, as data controllers, are responsible for safeguarding the data they contribute to the EPIC supplied Electronic Patient Record (EPR), used by the encompass programme. The system operates under robust legal safeguards to protect NI citizens’ privacy and to ensure that any use of patient data is for individual care or wider public health.\n\nData is stored within the EPIC EPR, a secure, integrated digital health and care record platform used globally.\n\nRole-Based Access Control (RBAC) methods are used to ensure staff can only access data relevant to their roles. RBAC profiles are applied after staff have completed the training appropriate for their job, as identified by HR. All HSC staff are contractually obligated to ensure that personal data is treated with the highest levels of confidentiality and staff adhere to the HSC Code of Practice on Protecting the Confidentiality of Service User Information, GDPR legislation, and the common law Duty of Confidentiality. A full audit trail of accesses is maintained within the system.\n\nData within the encompass system may be made available for research in accordance with the wider HSCNI Data Strategy (2022-2030) and in conjunction with the HSC Data Institute and the Northern Ireland Trusted Research Environment (NITRE). These bodies will enable the best practice exploitation of information held by the HSCNI to support collaborative research whilst ensuring appropriate safeguards are in place.","answerHtml":"HSC organisations, as data controllers, are responsible for safeguarding the data they contribute to the EPIC supplied Electronic Patient Record (EPR), used by the encompass programme. The system operates under robust legal safeguards to protect NI citizens’ privacy and to ensure that any use of patient data is for individual care or wider public health.
Data is stored within the EPIC EPR, a secure, integrated digital health and care record platform used globally.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) methods are used to ensure staff can only access data relevant to their roles. RBAC profiles are applied after staff have completed the training appropriate for their job, as identified by HR. All HSC staff are contractually obligated to ensure that personal data is treated with the highest levels of confidentiality and staff adhere to the HSC Code of Practice on Protecting the Confidentiality of Service User Information, GDPR legislation, and the common law Duty of Confidentiality. A full audit trail of accesses is maintained within the system.
Data within the encompass system may be made available for research in accordance with the wider HSCNI Data Strategy (2022-2030) and in conjunction with the HSC Data Institute and the Northern Ireland Trusted Research Environment (NITRE). These bodies will enable the best practice exploitation of information held by the HSCNI to support collaborative research whilst ensuring appropriate safeguards are in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019035%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419781","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419781"}},{"id":"421128","reference":"AQO 1300/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-28","answerBy":"2024-12-09","answered":"2024-12-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline any business cases that have been submitted to secure funding for the new IT system needed to deliver the Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan 2030.","answerText":"A bid was made for Capital funding for the e-pharmacy programme by SPPG in April 2022 however due to pressures on the departmental capital budget, this has not yet been prioritised.\n\nFull delivery of the strategic vision for Community Pharmacy services is subject to securing additional recurrent funding for an enhanced IT infrastructure that is needed for their safe implementation at scale. Specifically, within the e-pharmacy programme, the Go Pharmacy NI project is essential to digitise community pharmacy services and connect embed them within the HSC.\n\nThe Department published an Investment Plan which outlines the areas for investment in the delivery of the strategy for which funding has been secured, or will be bid for, during the 2024/25 financial year. The plan may be updated during the year if opportunities for further investment arise.","answerHtml":"A bid was made for Capital funding for the e-pharmacy programme by SPPG in April 2022 however due to pressures on the departmental capital budget, this has not yet been prioritised.
Full delivery of the strategic vision for Community Pharmacy services is subject to securing additional recurrent funding for an enhanced IT infrastructure that is needed for their safe implementation at scale. Specifically, within the e-pharmacy programme, the Go Pharmacy NI project is essential to digitise community pharmacy services and connect embed them within the HSC.
The Department published an Investment Plan which outlines the areas for investment in the delivery of the strategy for which funding has been secured, or will be bid for, during the 2024/25 financial year. The plan may be updated during the year if opportunities for further investment arise.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201300%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=421128","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=421128"}},{"id":"419024","reference":"AQW 18719/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-25","answerBy":"2024-12-10","answered":"2024-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 17600/22-27, to detail (i) the time-bound restrictions for each large town and city; and (ii) the maximum length of time that cars are permitted to park.","answerText":"Time-bound restrictions that are applied across each city and large town in Northern Ireland are set out in a considerable volume of secondary legislation. This legislation sets out the restrictions in detail, authorises the lengths of road to be used as parking places, the hours of operation and the maximum length of stay. In addition, each piece of legislation defines any exceptions which apply to these restrictions.\n\nGiven the large volume of relevant legislation setting out the vast range of parking restrictions applicable within cities and towns across Northern Ireland, a significant commitment of staff resources and time would be required to extract and collate this information at disproportionate cost. Therefore, regrettably my Department is unable to provide the information requested.\n\nDetail relating to the time-bound restrictions within the Controlled Parking Zones in Belfast, Lisburn and Newry can be found in the On-Street Parking Order (Northern Ireland) 2000.\n\nIn addition, it may be helpful for the Member to know that the Statutory Rules setting out parking restrictions in cities and towns across Northern Ireland can be viewed via the link below with details relating to specific cities or towns found using the search facility:\n\nhttps://www.legislation.gov.uk/primary+secondary?title=The%20Parking%20and%20Waiting%20Restrictions%20Order%20","answerHtml":"Time-bound restrictions that are applied across each city and large town in Northern Ireland are set out in a considerable volume of secondary legislation. This legislation sets out the restrictions in detail, authorises the lengths of road to be used as parking places, the hours of operation and the maximum length of stay. In addition, each piece of legislation defines any exceptions which apply to these restrictions.
Given the large volume of relevant legislation setting out the vast range of parking restrictions applicable within cities and towns across Northern Ireland, a significant commitment of staff resources and time would be required to extract and collate this information at disproportionate cost. Therefore, regrettably my Department is unable to provide the information requested.
Detail relating to the time-bound restrictions within the Controlled Parking Zones in Belfast, Lisburn and Newry can be found in the On-Street Parking Order (Northern Ireland) 2000.
In addition, it may be helpful for the Member to know that the Statutory Rules setting out parking restrictions in cities and towns across Northern Ireland can be viewed via the link below with details relating to specific cities or towns found using the search facility:
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/primary+secondary?title=The%20Parking%20and%20Waiting%20Restrictions%20Order%20
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018719%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419024","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419024"}},{"id":"418672","reference":"AQW 18560/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-21","answerBy":"2024-12-06","answered":"2024-12-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of health service staff currently under suspension pending adult safeguarding investigations, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The Department does not hold information about HSC employers’ disciplinary actions on their staff. This information is the responsibility of the HSC Trusts as the employers of our HSC workforce.","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold information about HSC employers’ disciplinary actions on their staff. This information is the responsibility of the HSC Trusts as the employers of our HSC workforce.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018560%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418672","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418672"}},{"id":"418671","reference":"AQW 18559/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-21","answerBy":"2024-12-06","answered":"2024-12-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how his Department will work with the Department for Infrastructure and the Department for Communities to involve the knowledge and expertise of public health professionals in plans to address the climate emergency.","answerText":"The Executive’s overarching strategic framework for Public Health, Making Life Better (MLB), recognises that health and wellbeing is influenced by many factors, including the wider physical environment. Though the MLB and other mechanisms, my Department will work with other Departments, including DfI, DfC and DAERA, on issues related to environmental health and the impact of climate change.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s overarching strategic framework for Public Health, Making Life Better (MLB), recognises that health and wellbeing is influenced by many factors, including the wider physical environment. Though the MLB and other mechanisms, my Department will work with other Departments, including DfI, DfC and DAERA, on issues related to environmental health and the impact of climate change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018559%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418671","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418671"}},{"id":"418670","reference":"AQW 18558/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-21","answerBy":"2024-12-06","answered":"2024-12-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how his Department will work with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in relation to the issue of indoor air quality.","answerText":"Air quality is the lead responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and we continue to work closely with colleagues in relation to health outcomes.\n\nThe Executive’s overarching strategic framework for Public Health, Making Life Better (MLB), recognises that health and wellbeing is influenced by many factors, including the wider physical environment. MLB includes a commitment to protect and promote good health and wellbeing through working collaboratively to improve air quality to achieve objectives and targets established to protect health.","answerHtml":"Air quality is the lead responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and we continue to work closely with colleagues in relation to health outcomes.
The Executive’s overarching strategic framework for Public Health, Making Life Better (MLB), recognises that health and wellbeing is influenced by many factors, including the wider physical environment. MLB includes a commitment to protect and promote good health and wellbeing through working collaboratively to improve air quality to achieve objectives and targets established to protect health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018558%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418670","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418670"}},{"id":"420343","reference":"AQO 1253/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-21","answerBy":"2024-12-03","answered":"2024-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for her assessment of whether the departmental allocations in the October Monitoring round will adequately cover the 2024-2025 public sector pay awards.","answerText":"Departments reported Resource overcommitments of £791 million in the October Monitoring round, which included non-contractual public sector pay pressures of some £440 million.\n\nFollowing the Autumn Budget the Executive had £631.5 million Resource DEL available for allocation.\n\nUnfortunately, even with this unprecedented level of additional in-year funding £180 million of departmental overcommitments remained unaddressed following the outcome of the October Monitoring round.\n\nIndividual Ministers will need to decide how best to utilise the additional allocations to address these overcommitments, which included pay pressures, whilst remaining within their Resource DEL budget allocation.\n\nHowever, despite these funding challenges we must do everything we can to find the money to cover public sector pay awards.\n\nI remain fully committed to working together with Ministerial colleagues to try and find a way forward in respect of the Public Sector Pay challenges we face.\n\nOur public sector workers deserve be paid fairly given their vital role in the provision of our public services and that we will not be able to deliver on our transformation objectives without their support.\n\nThat is why I continue to ask all Ministers to do what they can to deliver savings and identify these as early as possible so that any funding available can be prioritised for public sector pay awards.\n\nI have been clear that I am determined to work collaboratively with colleagues to bring the best possible outcomes for our workers and for our citizens.","answerHtml":"Departments reported Resource overcommitments of £791 million in the October Monitoring round, which included non-contractual public sector pay pressures of some £440 million.
Following the Autumn Budget the Executive had £631.5 million Resource DEL available for allocation.
Unfortunately, even with this unprecedented level of additional in-year funding £180 million of departmental overcommitments remained unaddressed following the outcome of the October Monitoring round.
Individual Ministers will need to decide how best to utilise the additional allocations to address these overcommitments, which included pay pressures, whilst remaining within their Resource DEL budget allocation.
However, despite these funding challenges we must do everything we can to find the money to cover public sector pay awards.
I remain fully committed to working together with Ministerial colleagues to try and find a way forward in respect of the Public Sector Pay challenges we face.
Our public sector workers deserve be paid fairly given their vital role in the provision of our public services and that we will not be able to deliver on our transformation objectives without their support.
That is why I continue to ask all Ministers to do what they can to deliver savings and identify these as early as possible so that any funding available can be prioritised for public sector pay awards.
I have been clear that I am determined to work collaboratively with colleagues to bring the best possible outcomes for our workers and for our citizens.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201253%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420343","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420343"}},{"id":"418752","reference":"AQO 1233/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-21","answerBy":"2024-12-02","answered":"2024-12-02","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the action he has taken to resolve the teachers' pay claim for 2024-2025.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"Through the Teachers' Negotiating Committee (TNC), a joint pay group is operational. Meetings have taken place with employers, sectoral support bodies and the recognised teaching trade unions in the Northern Ireland Teachers' Council (NITC) to explain to and update them on the current financial pressures in education and to discuss the current pay claim from the NITC. The NITC pay claim is substantially higher than what was recommended by the United Kingdom Government and accepted by teachers in England. In line with public-sector pay policy requirements, any proposals for a teachers' pay award must be affordable, and the claim is proving difficult to resolve given the pressures that the Education budget already faces. The chair of the TNC management side has also written to the NITC to formally request a de-escalation and for the ballots for industrial action to be stood down. I will continue to do all that I can to secure funding for an appropriate pay settlement for teachers."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. I will declare an interest, as my wife is a teacher. Will the Minister make a pay offer in order to deliver pay parity for teachers in Northern Ireland?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"I very much want to continue the excellent work that I was able to take forward when I came into post, which was to deliver a double-digit percentage increase to teachers' pay. We also brought the starting salary for new graduates from £23,000 up to £30,000, bringing it into line with that in England. That has helped to make sure that our young people who graduate from our training colleges stay in Northern Ireland, and I want to maintain that. I am very committed, in the spirit of cooperation, to trying to get a successful outcome to the negotiations. A number of bodies form the management side, so it is not led entirely by me, but, clearly, my Department has a key role and I have an active position in trying to achieve a resolution. Yes, I want to get a successful outcome, and we are actively engaging with the unions. They had a meeting last week, and that engagement will continue next week. I want to get a positive outcome."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201233%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418752","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-12-02&docID=419470#AQO%201233/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418752"}},{"id":"418103","reference":"AQW 18335/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-18","answerBy":"2024-12-03","answered":"2024-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of patients prescribed cardiovascular medication prescription at primary care in each of the last five years, broken down by gender.","answerText":"The HSC Business Services Organisation (BSO) holds data on the number of prescriptions prescribed in Primary Care and dispensed by a community pharmacist, dispensing doctor or appliance contractor. It does not hold information on the number of patients to whom the prescriptions are dispensed.\n\nInformation has been provided for patients dispensed products within British National Formulary (BNF) Chapter 2 - Cardiovascular System between 2019 and 2023.\n\nYear\tFemale\tMale\tUnknown\tTotal Patients\n2019\t268,309\t239,463\t108\t507,880\n2020\t266,749\t239,004\t113\t505,866\n2021\t273,761\t244,123\t104\t517,988\n2022\t282,114\t251,502\t89\t533,705\n2023\t291,656\t259,625\t40\t551,321\n\nSource: Business Services Organisation, Information and Analysis Directorate, Department of Health","answerHtml":"The HSC Business Services Organisation (BSO) holds data on the number of prescriptions prescribed in Primary Care and dispensed by a community pharmacist, dispensing doctor or appliance contractor. It does not hold information on the number of patients to whom the prescriptions are dispensed.
Information has been provided for patients dispensed products within British National Formulary (BNF) Chapter 2 - Cardiovascular System between 2019 and 2023.
| Year | Female | Male | Unknown | Total Patients |
| 2019 | 268,309 | 239,463 | 108 | 507,880 |
| 2020 | 266,749 | 239,004 | 113 | 505,866 |
| 2021 | 273,761 | 244,123 | 104 | 517,988 |
| 2022 | 282,114 | 251,502 | 89 | 533,705 |
| 2023 | 291,656 | 259,625 | 40 | 551,321 |
Source: Business Services Organisation, Information and Analysis Directorate, Department of Health
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018335%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418103","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418103"}},{"id":"418102","reference":"AQW 18334/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-18","answerBy":"2024-12-03","answered":"2024-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department will recommence public awareness campaigns encouraging greater understanding of organ donation laws.","answerText":"My Department has a statutory duty to promote organ transplantation under the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act (Northern Ireland) 2016. In line with this duty, my Department oversees a comprehensive rolling programme of outreach and engagement activity to promote knowledge and informed discussion about organ donation, including promoting understanding of organ donation laws, which is aimed at driving registrations on the NHS Organ Donor Register (ODR) and sustaining and increasing rates of consent to both living and deceased organ donation.\n\nThe programme is delivered by an Organ Donation Promotion Manager, situated in the Public Health Agency (PHA), through a partnership approach with Health and Social Care Trusts, NHS Blood and Transplant, local government, and charity partners and spans the community, voluntary and education sectors.\n\nYou will be aware that I have repeatedly stated that the budget allocated to the health service is wholly inadequate. This has resulted in a collective effort across the system and at Department level to make savings, including a moratorium on paid advertising campaigns and consideration of other discretionary spend which has impacted on paid aspects of the organ donation programme.\n\nHowever, the PHA has adjusted the programme to have an increased focus on uplifting initiatives using social media and other approaches and seeking new partnership opportunities to ensure continued promotion of organ donation throughout the year. It is expected that paid campaign activity on organ donation will resume once the Executive is in a position to lift the current moratorium.","answerHtml":"My Department has a statutory duty to promote organ transplantation under the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act (Northern Ireland) 2016. In line with this duty, my Department oversees a comprehensive rolling programme of outreach and engagement activity to promote knowledge and informed discussion about organ donation, including promoting understanding of organ donation laws, which is aimed at driving registrations on the NHS Organ Donor Register (ODR) and sustaining and increasing rates of consent to both living and deceased organ donation.
The programme is delivered by an Organ Donation Promotion Manager, situated in the Public Health Agency (PHA), through a partnership approach with Health and Social Care Trusts, NHS Blood and Transplant, local government, and charity partners and spans the community, voluntary and education sectors.
You will be aware that I have repeatedly stated that the budget allocated to the health service is wholly inadequate. This has resulted in a collective effort across the system and at Department level to make savings, including a moratorium on paid advertising campaigns and consideration of other discretionary spend which has impacted on paid aspects of the organ donation programme.
However, the PHA has adjusted the programme to have an increased focus on uplifting initiatives using social media and other approaches and seeking new partnership opportunities to ensure continued promotion of organ donation throughout the year. It is expected that paid campaign activity on organ donation will resume once the Executive is in a position to lift the current moratorium.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018334%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418102","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418102"}},{"id":"416928","reference":"AQO 1158/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-07","answerBy":"2024-11-19","answered":"2024-11-19","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on improvements she intends to make to the Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference process.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"I am committed to ensuring that the risk that is posed to victims of domestic abuse is assessed and managed as effectively as possible. Members will be aware that Leonard Consultancy conducted an independent review of the multi-agency risk assessment conference (MARAC) arrangements on behalf of all strategic partners involved. The review examined MARAC's operational effectiveness and identified potential learning and opportunities for improved effectiveness. My Department has now established a dedicated multi-agency working group to consider and respond to that review's findings, with a view to strengthening the responses to and protections for victims of domestic abuse. The group's key objectives are to identify costed recommendations for new multi-agency risk assessment arrangements and supporting processes; improve risk assessment and management in order to increase the safety of victims of domestic abuse; and reduce the risk posed by perpetrators of domestic abuse. The working group plans to hold a series of facilitated workshops to work through and agree recommended changes for how new arrangements should operate."},{"speaker":"","text":"Through those workshops, members will consider how to build in a \"person of concern\" focus in order to ensure that new arrangements will focus not only on reducing the risk to the victim but on reducing the risk from the person of concern. I am confident that this work will result in a robust multi-agency arrangement that will make a material difference to the safety of high-risk victims of domestic abuse."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"Thanks to the Minister for that answer. Is the Minister considering more immediate interventions for high-risk victims?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"As part of the work that we are undertaking, we are exploring the potential to pilot arrangements for a daily risk assessment meeting (DRAM) that would operate in support of MARAC in the first instance but would look at more immediate interventions for high-risk victims. We are also exploring how to pilot the arrangements in a single health and social care trust area, building on already established partnerships between trusts and the PSNI. We hope to launch that pilot in January and run it until the end of the financial year 2025-26, with an evaluation to follow."},{"speaker":"Ms Ferguson","text":"In relation to MARAC, what consideration will be given to a child or children of victims of domestic abuse?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"It is important that, when we look at those who are at risk, we consider the impact on children. As you are aware, in the domestic abuse offences, there are statutory aggravators that take account of children being aware of, having had sight of or hearing domestic abuse taking place. It is important that, when we look, for example, at that person of concern, who is essentially the person about whose violent behaviours we are concerned, we remember that that person of concern will have links to other people, including children, as well as the main intimate partner, who may be the subject of their domestic violence. That will be taken into account."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201158%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416928","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-11-19&docID=417533#AQO%201158/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416928"}},{"id":"418231","reference":"AQO 1149/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-07","answerBy":"2024-11-18","answered":"2024-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on the development of a Climate Action Plan.","answerText":"Under the requirements of The Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, DAERA is responsible for preparing and publishing a Climate Action Plan (the CAP) for the 2023-2027 carbon budget period on behalf of all NI Departments.\n\nAddressing climate change is one of my Department’s key priorities. My Department’s functions under the Act, primarily relate to transport and infrastructure, although other areas of the CAP fall under or relate to my Department’s remit such as, planning, water, nature-based solutions, energy and public buildings.\n\nIt is important that the CAP is based on best advice and evidence and is credible, taking into account Just Transition principles.\n\nI welcome the recent publication of the consultation on regulations to establish a Just Transition Commission.\n\nMy officials have been working closely with officials in DAERA on providing the information required for the CAP.\n\nAs sector lead for transport, I have been focusing on the steps needed to decarbonise the transport sector here. My Department is responsible for providing a chapter in relation to transport for inclusion within the CAP and has developed its own bespoke Transport Emissions Model (TEM) to inform the evidence base and help decision making on the most appropriate policies and actions.\n\nMy three key high level transport policies are:\n\nswitch - reducing vehicle emissions by switching fuels to low emission alternatives\n\nshift – shifting modes of transport away from private car journeys to sustainable travel alternatives\n\nreduce - reducing the need for and length of vehicle journeys\n\nWhilst I am committed to delivering against the Climate Change Act, including the CAP, I also recognise that the Executive as a whole needs to work collectively towards the delivery of net zero.","answerHtml":"Under the requirements of The Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, DAERA is responsible for preparing and publishing a Climate Action Plan (the CAP) for the 2023-2027 carbon budget period on behalf of all NI Departments.
Addressing climate change is one of my Department’s key priorities. My Department’s functions under the Act, primarily relate to transport and infrastructure, although other areas of the CAP fall under or relate to my Department’s remit such as, planning, water, nature-based solutions, energy and public buildings.
It is important that the CAP is based on best advice and evidence and is credible, taking into account Just Transition principles.
I welcome the recent publication of the consultation on regulations to establish a Just Transition Commission.
My officials have been working closely with officials in DAERA on providing the information required for the CAP.
As sector lead for transport, I have been focusing on the steps needed to decarbonise the transport sector here. My Department is responsible for providing a chapter in relation to transport for inclusion within the CAP and has developed its own bespoke Transport Emissions Model (TEM) to inform the evidence base and help decision making on the most appropriate policies and actions.
My three key high level transport policies are:
switch - reducing vehicle emissions by switching fuels to low emission alternatives
shift – shifting modes of transport away from private car journeys to sustainable travel alternatives
reduce - reducing the need for and length of vehicle journeys
Whilst I am committed to delivering against the Climate Change Act, including the CAP, I also recognise that the Executive as a whole needs to work collectively towards the delivery of net zero.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201149%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418231","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418231"}},{"id":"416457","reference":"AQW 17600/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-05","answerBy":"2024-11-20","answered":"2024-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the length of time that on-street parking is free for cars in each (i) large town; and (ii) city.","answerText":"On-street parking is free in all towns and cities apart from certain parts of Belfast, Newry, and Lisburn where Controlled Parking Zones are in place. However, time bound restrictions may apply, depending on the location, to limit the duration of parking in certain areas to prevent all day parking and encourage an ongoing turnover of spaces.","answerHtml":"On-street parking is free in all towns and cities apart from certain parts of Belfast, Newry, and Lisburn where Controlled Parking Zones are in place. However, time bound restrictions may apply, depending on the location, to limit the duration of parking in certain areas to prevent all day parking and encourage an ongoing turnover of spaces.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017600%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416457","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416457"}},{"id":"416179","reference":"AQW 17477/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-04","answerBy":"2024-11-19","answered":"2024-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the (i) number; and (ii) percentage of rail services on the Larne line which have been cancelled or delayed in the last six months.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Translink. I have sought the requested information and can confirm that between 6 May 2024 and 3 November 2024 there have been:\n\n10,232 Larne line services\n\n470 (4.59%) of services delayed by over 5 minutes\n\n23 (0.22%) service cancellations\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact Translink directly at aqw.request@translink.co.uk. Making direct contact with Translink will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Translink. I have sought the requested information and can confirm that between 6 May 2024 and 3 November 2024 there have been:
10,232 Larne line services
470 (4.59%) of services delayed by over 5 minutes
23 (0.22%) service cancellations
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact Translink directly at aqw.request@translink.co.uk. Making direct contact with Translink will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017477%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416179","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416179"}},{"id":"416178","reference":"AQW 17476/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-04","answerBy":"2024-11-19","answered":"2024-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether the current Review of the Northern Ireland Curriculum will consider a statutory requirement for schools to educate pupils on the dangers of gambling as part of the core curriculum.","answerText":"The review of the Northern Ireland curriculum, to be undertaken by Lucy Crehan, will make a series of policy recommendations regarding the purpose, design, specification and implementation of the Northern Ireland Curriculum. The review will commence shortly, therefore it is too soon to comment on priority areas of inquiry. It is unlikely that the final report will include detailed proposals on individual course/subject content.\n\nAlthough not explicitly mentioned within the Northern Ireland Curriculum, gambling harm is addressed through teaching on gambling, gaming, and financial capability across several areas of the curriculum. At primary level this is considered within Personal Development and Mutual Understanding. At post-primary level this is taught within Learning for Life and Work.","answerHtml":"The review of the Northern Ireland curriculum, to be undertaken by Lucy Crehan, will make a series of policy recommendations regarding the purpose, design, specification and implementation of the Northern Ireland Curriculum. The review will commence shortly, therefore it is too soon to comment on priority areas of inquiry. It is unlikely that the final report will include detailed proposals on individual course/subject content.
Although not explicitly mentioned within the Northern Ireland Curriculum, gambling harm is addressed through teaching on gambling, gaming, and financial capability across several areas of the curriculum. At primary level this is considered within Personal Development and Mutual Understanding. At post-primary level this is taught within Learning for Life and Work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017476%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416178","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416178"}},{"id":"415754","reference":"AQW 17419/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-25","answerBy":"2024-11-11","answered":"2024-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how he will ensure that inflammatory bowel disease services are appropriately resourced and staffed.","answerText":"(i) Crohns and (ii) Ulcerative Colitis are forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) which is managed mostly under the specialty of Gastroenterology but patients may also be referred into General Medicine or General Surgery.\n\nDiagnosis of IBD is led by secondary care and supported by primary care pathways and the provision of laboratory tests specifically Calprotectin testing. In recent years these patient pathways and laboratory tests have enabled clinicians to prioritise outpatient referrals for IBD and better manage patients who are already undergoing treatment for IBD. Dietitians also play a vital role in managing conditions such as Coeliac and IBS thereby allowing patients with suspected IBD to attend consultant led outpatients for a diagnosis. Once diagnosed, patients are cared for by specialists including clinicians and IBD nurses in each Trust area. A number of Trusts have appointed pharmacy support for IBD patients who attend in their ED. There is also a regional IBD interest group which shares good practice and learning across the region.\n\nThe Department of Health in recent years has increased funding on an annual basis to ensure that all IBD patients, assessed as benefiting from NICE approved biologic technologies, receive treatment regardless of where they live. Funding has recently been approved for additional staffing to meet the ongoing demand for biological therapies. Patients across NI are able to access these medicines in a timely manner following diagnosis and treatment as prescribed on a regular basis. IBD nurses provide dedicated patient support.","answerHtml":"(i) Crohns and (ii) Ulcerative Colitis are forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) which is managed mostly under the specialty of Gastroenterology but patients may also be referred into General Medicine or General Surgery.
Diagnosis of IBD is led by secondary care and supported by primary care pathways and the provision of laboratory tests specifically Calprotectin testing. In recent years these patient pathways and laboratory tests have enabled clinicians to prioritise outpatient referrals for IBD and better manage patients who are already undergoing treatment for IBD. Dietitians also play a vital role in managing conditions such as Coeliac and IBS thereby allowing patients with suspected IBD to attend consultant led outpatients for a diagnosis. Once diagnosed, patients are cared for by specialists including clinicians and IBD nurses in each Trust area. A number of Trusts have appointed pharmacy support for IBD patients who attend in their ED. There is also a regional IBD interest group which shares good practice and learning across the region.
The Department of Health in recent years has increased funding on an annual basis to ensure that all IBD patients, assessed as benefiting from NICE approved biologic technologies, receive treatment regardless of where they live. Funding has recently been approved for additional staffing to meet the ongoing demand for biological therapies. Patients across NI are able to access these medicines in a timely manner following diagnosis and treatment as prescribed on a regular basis. IBD nurses provide dedicated patient support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017419%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415754"}},{"id":"415753","reference":"AQW 17418/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-25","answerBy":"2024-11-11","answered":"2024-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he is taking to increase the early diagnosis of (i) Crohn’s disease; and (ii) ulcerative colitis.","answerText":"(i) Crohns and (ii) Ulcerative Colitis are forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) which is managed mostly under the specialty of Gastroenterology but patients may also be referred into General Medicine or General Surgery.\n\nDiagnosis of IBD is led by secondary care and supported by primary care pathways and the provision of laboratory tests specifically Calprotectin testing. In recent years these patient pathways and laboratory tests have enabled clinicians to prioritise outpatient referrals for IBD and better manage patients who are already undergoing treatment for IBD. Dietitians also play a vital role in managing conditions such as Coeliac and IBS thereby allowing patients with suspected IBD to attend consultant led outpatients for a diagnosis. Once diagnosed, patients are cared for by specialists including clinicians and IBD nurses in each Trust area. A number of Trusts have appointed pharmacy support for IBD patients who attend in their ED. There is also a regional IBD interest group which shares good practice and learning across the region.\n\nThe Department of Health in recent years has increased funding on an annual basis to ensure that all IBD patients, assessed as benefiting from NICE approved biologic technologies, receive treatment regardless of where they live. Funding has recently been approved for additional staffing to meet the ongoing demand for biological therapies. Patients across NI are able to access these medicines in a timely manner following diagnosis and treatment as prescribed on a regular basis. IBD nurses provide dedicated patient support.","answerHtml":"(i) Crohns and (ii) Ulcerative Colitis are forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) which is managed mostly under the specialty of Gastroenterology but patients may also be referred into General Medicine or General Surgery.
Diagnosis of IBD is led by secondary care and supported by primary care pathways and the provision of laboratory tests specifically Calprotectin testing. In recent years these patient pathways and laboratory tests have enabled clinicians to prioritise outpatient referrals for IBD and better manage patients who are already undergoing treatment for IBD. Dietitians also play a vital role in managing conditions such as Coeliac and IBS thereby allowing patients with suspected IBD to attend consultant led outpatients for a diagnosis. Once diagnosed, patients are cared for by specialists including clinicians and IBD nurses in each Trust area. A number of Trusts have appointed pharmacy support for IBD patients who attend in their ED. There is also a regional IBD interest group which shares good practice and learning across the region.
The Department of Health in recent years has increased funding on an annual basis to ensure that all IBD patients, assessed as benefiting from NICE approved biologic technologies, receive treatment regardless of where they live. Funding has recently been approved for additional staffing to meet the ongoing demand for biological therapies. Patients across NI are able to access these medicines in a timely manner following diagnosis and treatment as prescribed on a regular basis. IBD nurses provide dedicated patient support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017418%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415753"}},{"id":"415650","reference":"AQO 1099/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-24","answerBy":"2024-11-11","answered":"2024-11-11","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the actions he has taken to improve child safeguarding following the Education and Training Inspectorate's April 2023 report The Preventative Curriculum in Schools and Education Other Than At School Centres.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"The Education and Training Inspectorate report uses the term \"preventative curriculum\" to encompass safeguarding practices and the taught elements of the curriculum, such as personal development, mutual understanding and relationships and sexuality education (RSE). The ETI report found that pupil safety and safeguarding practices worked to good effect to safeguard pupils and that educational settings have adequate support from external agencies in responding to child protection and safeguarding issues. To ensure that good safeguarding practices exist in schools, my Department's safeguarding guidance was reviewed and updated in September 2025. Schools and educational settings are required to follow and implement that statutory guidance."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. Does the Minister agree with the NSPCC, the Children's Law Centre, the Human Rights Commission and others that ensuring the delivery of quality RSE in schools is a key safeguarding issue?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"I very much agree that the delivery of RSE in our schools is an important safeguarding issue."},{"speaker":"Mr McGlone","text":"Minister, drugs education is an important part of the preventative curriculum, yet, despite that, the North has seen a trebling of drug deaths in the past decade. Will the Minister outline whether there is any revision or review taking place in his Department of drugs awareness and education in our schools?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"That is about how the curriculum is delivered. The preventative curriculum in particular is kept under review, and, as issues emerge, we need to make sure that we have the right support for it. The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) has been good at providing material when schools have particular issues, which can sometimes vary. As well as that, the Education Authority can provide support in the protection of children and young people. There are functions that it can use to support schools in those areas. It is vital that we always keep on top of emerging issues, particularly when it comes to drugs. New drugs can enter society, and it is about how we respond to that to make sure that young people are properly informed. That is a role in the preventative curriculum that it is important to keep up to date."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201099%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415650","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-11-11&docID=416633#AQO%201099/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415650"}},{"id":"414979","reference":"AQW 17055/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-21","answerBy":"2024-11-05","answered":"2024-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the data available on the (i) demographic; and (ii) surgery type of patients being treated in elective orthopaedic hubs in the last five years.","answerText":"My Department does not hold the information in the format requested. As a breakdown into specific procedures would have yielded many areas of very small numbers that could make patients identifiable, it is not possible to provide the information requested.\n\nMy Department provides official statistics on general activity and waiting lists which can be accessed on the Department’s website.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold the information in the format requested. As a breakdown into specific procedures would have yielded many areas of very small numbers that could make patients identifiable, it is not possible to provide the information requested.
My Department provides official statistics on general activity and waiting lists which can be accessed on the Department’s website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017055%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414979","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414979"}},{"id":"414978","reference":"AQW 17054/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-21","answerBy":"2024-11-05","answered":"2024-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will consider introducing a single referral to treatment measure to track the patient journey, similar to the system in England and Wales.","answerText":"A move to a single referral to treatment measure is highly desirable because it better reflects the patient experience and what the patient is really interested in, which is the entire journey. From a technical perspective, the new regional encompass system, once fully rolled out to all Trusts, will mean that Northern Ireland will be well placed to measure referral to treatment times. However further scoping of the capability of the HSC to deliver a referral to treatment waiting time will be required before a decision can be made on its introduction.","answerHtml":"A move to a single referral to treatment measure is highly desirable because it better reflects the patient experience and what the patient is really interested in, which is the entire journey. From a technical perspective, the new regional encompass system, once fully rolled out to all Trusts, will mean that Northern Ireland will be well placed to measure referral to treatment times. However further scoping of the capability of the HSC to deliver a referral to treatment waiting time will be required before a decision can be made on its introduction.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017054%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414978","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414978"}},{"id":"414605","reference":"AQW 16892/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-17","answerBy":"2024-11-01","answered":"2024-11-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the work of the Cardiac Network, including its plans for the future.","answerText":"The update on the Cardiac Network’s work is as follows:\n\nThe pacing workstream achieved a regional consensus on the referral and management pathway of patients presenting to hospital with bradyarrhythmia. An agreed process has been implemented for escalation and safe inter-hospital transfer of these patients to a regional centre, if required;\n\nIn line with NICE guidelines, the Rapid Angina Assessment Clinic (RAAC) workstream implemented a regional pathway for the assessment and diagnosis of patients with new on-set chest pain suggestive of stable angina;\n\nThe palpitation pathway was expanded to Mid Ulster GP practices;\n\nPre-operative guidelines for inpatients awaiting cardiac surgery have been revised and agreed resulting in streamlined access to inpatient cardiac surgery;\n\nThe two strategic leadership groups are continuing their work: the Heart Failure project is scheduled to end on 31 December 2024 and the Cardiac Rehabilitation project end date is planned for 31 March 2024;\n\nThe cardiac catheterisation laboratories capacity and demand modelling project is progressing and planned to be completed by December 2024;\n\nThe regional medical workforce review of cardiology Consultants, Specialists and Associate Specialists is progressing and will continue into 2025;\n\nThe regional clinical physiologist workforce review, which specifically relates to transthoracic echocardiography, has commenced recently and will continue into 2025.\n\nThe Cardiac Network will continue to work with stakeholders towards implementation of best practice guidelines across cardiac services in NI.","answerHtml":"The update on the Cardiac Network’s work is as follows:
The pacing workstream achieved a regional consensus on the referral and management pathway of patients presenting to hospital with bradyarrhythmia. An agreed process has been implemented for escalation and safe inter-hospital transfer of these patients to a regional centre, if required;
In line with NICE guidelines, the Rapid Angina Assessment Clinic (RAAC) workstream implemented a regional pathway for the assessment and diagnosis of patients with new on-set chest pain suggestive of stable angina;
The palpitation pathway was expanded to Mid Ulster GP practices;
Pre-operative guidelines for inpatients awaiting cardiac surgery have been revised and agreed resulting in streamlined access to inpatient cardiac surgery;
The two strategic leadership groups are continuing their work: the Heart Failure project is scheduled to end on 31 December 2024 and the Cardiac Rehabilitation project end date is planned for 31 March 2024;
The cardiac catheterisation laboratories capacity and demand modelling project is progressing and planned to be completed by December 2024;
The regional medical workforce review of cardiology Consultants, Specialists and Associate Specialists is progressing and will continue into 2025;
The regional clinical physiologist workforce review, which specifically relates to transthoracic echocardiography, has commenced recently and will continue into 2025.
The Cardiac Network will continue to work with stakeholders towards implementation of best practice guidelines across cardiac services in NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016892%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414605","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414605"}},{"id":"414693","reference":"AQO 1041/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-17","answerBy":"2024-11-04","answered":"2024-11-04","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline the action he is taking to reduce the impact of slurry on the environment.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"A wide range of actions are being progressed. The nutrients action programme is the key measure to control nutrient pollution from agricultural sources and improve water quality and includes a wide range of measures on the storage, spreading and management of slurry, manures and chemical fertilisers. The nutrients action programme is currently being reviewed, and a public consultation and proposals for the updated NAP will be launched in early 2025. My Department is also developing an ammonia strategy to deliver reductions in ammonia emissions from agriculture. I wish to seek additional views on the proposed mandatory ammonia reduction measures in the ammonia strategy, including the use of low-emission slurry spreading equipment (LESSE), as part of the NAP consultation process. In October 2024, my Department awarded contracts worth £4 million each to two companies in Northern Ireland as part of phase 2 of the sustainable utilisation of livestock slurry (SULS) small business research initiative. By the end of year three, the project seeks to remove and export at least 1,000 tonnes of phosphorus per year from livestock manures that are applied on the land in Northern Ireland. The launch of phase 2 of SULS delivers on action 10 of the Lough Neagh action plan."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"We now move to topical questions to the Minister."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201041%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414693","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-11-04&docID=415336#AQO%201041/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414693"}},{"id":"413799","reference":"AQW 16597/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-11","answerBy":"2024-10-28","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when he will answer (i) AQW 14340/22-27; (ii) AQW 14992/22-27; (iii) AQW 15180/22-27; (iv) AQW 15181/22-27; (v) AQW 15183/22-27; (vi) AQW 15184/22-27; and (vii) AQW 15282/22-27.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016597%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=413799","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=413799"}},{"id":"412752","reference":"AQO 969/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-03","answerBy":"2024-10-14","answered":"2024-10-14","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance when she intends to bring proposals to the Executive on changes to the rating policy.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"With your permission, Mr Speaker, I will answer questions 5 and 11 together. Over 1,400 responses were received from ratepayers, businesses and a range of other stakeholders."},{"speaker":"","text":"It is for that reason that I wanted to ensure that, with my officials, I took the time to examine carefully all the views from those who responded."},{"speaker":"","text":"I will be engaging with Executive colleagues on the next steps and will continue my engagement with business bodies, organisations and wider society to work together to build a progressive rates system that grows our tax base and stimulates our economy. As part of that work, I have now presented short-, medium- and long-term rating policy proposals, including a more strategic, longer-term policy approach to the Executive for consideration. It is my intention to make a statement to the Assembly after the Executive have agreed the way forward."},{"speaker":"Ms Ennis","text":"I thank the Minister for her response and for her efforts in that regard. More specifically, is she able to give an update on industrial derating?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I have spoken on that issue a number of times in the Assembly, because I recognise the role that industrial derating has played in supporting 4,400-plus manufacturers and its contribution to our having a strong manufacturing sector here. The measure supports indigenous businesses, with over 50% of the recipients being eligible for a small business rate relief valuation at a threshold of £15,000 net annual value (NAV). Anything that I and the Executive do on our rating policy has to align very much with what we are trying to achieve with our economic vision of creating good jobs and improving productivity, decarbonisation and regional balance."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for her answer. Despite the hard-working businesses in our town centres, there is a proliferation of vacant premises in my constituency of East Antrim. Does the Minister agree that high street businesses are getting an unfair deal from the current rating system? What can be done to make competition from online shopping, where rent and rates are much less, fairer in order to protect town centre businesses?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"There are a number of factors at play that have had an impact on our village, town and city centres over recent years, not least the proliferation of online shopping. It is just so handy for many people to choose that option. The Executive need to take a collective approach to supporting our towns and our high streets. When I engage with businesses and business organisations, they outline a number of pressures that they are facing on a lot of fronts and tell me that general costs have increased very significantly. Their rates bill is one of the many bills that they receive. Furthermore, it is important to recognise that rates are our major source of income generation. When we want to do anything to give support or rate relief, we have to recognise that that is money either that is not there to be spent on public services or that will increase everybody else's rates bill. That is the balance that we have to strike with the rating system. We want to stimulate our economy, but we also need to be able to fund our public services."},{"speaker":"Ms McLaughlin","text":"The Budget sustainability plan explores raising rates this year from 2·5% to 4%. Ratepayers have seen increases in the regional rate and the district rate. As you indicated in your response to a previous question, rates are increasing and services are decreasing. Given that previous answer, will you commit to not putting the burden on ratepayers for the rest of the mandate?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"The Budget sustainability plan reflects the amounts that will have to be raised through the regional rate to meet our obligation to raise the £113 million that needs to be raised over two years. The decision that the Executive took last year to keep the increase in the regional rate in line with inflation was taken to do exactly as the Member outlined, which was to mitigate the impact that would be felt by households and businesses. That was despite the pressure that we were getting from the Treasury as a result of its revenue-raising demands. There is a good, strong argument for that Executive decision, and, as I said to Mr Donnelly, we have to get right the balance between being able to fund public services and ensuring that the burden does not fall too hard on too many people."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20969%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412752","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-10-14&docID=413431#AQO%20969/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412752"}},{"id":"412494","reference":"AQW 16069/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-02","answerBy":"2024-10-17","answered":"2024-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQT 372/22-27, whether he (i) has met; and (ii) plans to meet with stakeholders in the bowel cancer sector.","answerText":"I have met with representatives of Bowel Cancer UK and other stakeholders in support of the Cancer Strategy implementation. My Departmental Officials have also been meeting regularly with stakeholders from across the sector in relation to bowel cancer.","answerHtml":"I have met with representatives of Bowel Cancer UK and other stakeholders in support of the Cancer Strategy implementation. My Departmental Officials have also been meeting regularly with stakeholders from across the sector in relation to bowel cancer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016069%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412494","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412494"}},{"id":"412286","reference":"AQW 15983/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-01","answerBy":"2024-10-16","answered":"2024-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any action being taken to manage the supply issues of the pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, Creon, for people with cystic fibrosis who require this treatment.","answerText":"The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) leads on the maintenance of supply chains to the UK, and works closely with the other devolved administrations, including my Department, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and other operators within the supply chain. Through this engagement and UK-wide medicines shortages working groups, my Department is aware of ongoing supply disruptions affecting pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) treatments, including Creon® preparations. The disruptions to Creon® preparations have been caused by limited availability of the active pharmaceutical ingredient and manufacturing constraints in meeting patient demand.\n\nThere are national and locally tried and tested mitigations that can be used during periods of supply disruption. Several of these steps have been taken in response to supply disruptions to Creon® and other PERT products.\n\nA National Patient Safety Alert was issued by my Department on 24 May 2024, providing healthcare professionals with advice and actions to take to ensure patients can continue to access appropriate treatments. This alert has superseded previous guidance issued to healthcare professionals through Medicines Supply Notifications. Healthcare professionals can also register with the NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service (SPS) which provides up-to-date information on medicine shortages and their anticipated resupply.\n\nAdditionally, PERT products were added to the UK restricted export and hoarding list on 22 May 2024, and Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) have been issued to community pharmacists for Creon® 10,000 and 25,000 capsules.\n\nMy Department will continue to work closely with DHSC and the other devolved administrations on these UK-wide supply disruptions to help ensure patients and/ or their representatives can continue to have access to appropriate treatments.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) leads on the maintenance of supply chains to the UK, and works closely with the other devolved administrations, including my Department, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and other operators within the supply chain. Through this engagement and UK-wide medicines shortages working groups, my Department is aware of ongoing supply disruptions affecting pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) treatments, including Creon® preparations. The disruptions to Creon® preparations have been caused by limited availability of the active pharmaceutical ingredient and manufacturing constraints in meeting patient demand.
There are national and locally tried and tested mitigations that can be used during periods of supply disruption. Several of these steps have been taken in response to supply disruptions to Creon® and other PERT products.
A National Patient Safety Alert was issued by my Department on 24 May 2024, providing healthcare professionals with advice and actions to take to ensure patients can continue to access appropriate treatments. This alert has superseded previous guidance issued to healthcare professionals through Medicines Supply Notifications. Healthcare professionals can also register with the NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service (SPS) which provides up-to-date information on medicine shortages and their anticipated resupply.
Additionally, PERT products were added to the UK restricted export and hoarding list on 22 May 2024, and Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) have been issued to community pharmacists for Creon® 10,000 and 25,000 capsules.
My Department will continue to work closely with DHSC and the other devolved administrations on these UK-wide supply disruptions to help ensure patients and/ or their representatives can continue to have access to appropriate treatments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015983%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412286","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412286"}},{"id":"412285","reference":"AQW 15982/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-01","answerBy":"2024-10-16","answered":"2024-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps that can be taken to provide additional support this winter for people with cystic fibrosis who require a warm home to stay well.","answerText":"Depending on individual circumstances, a person with cystic fibrosis may have access to certain disability and/or income-related benefits in the social security system. To ensure a person is in receipt of all the support they are entitled to they should contact the Department for Communities’ Make the Call Service via Freephone number 0800 232 1271 or by emailing makethecall@dfcni.gov.uk.\n\nCystic Fibrosis Trust can provide a range of grants for people with cystic fibrosis and their families.\n\nwww.cysticfibrosis.org.uk/the-work-we-do/support-available/financial-support","answerHtml":"Depending on individual circumstances, a person with cystic fibrosis may have access to certain disability and/or income-related benefits in the social security system. To ensure a person is in receipt of all the support they are entitled to they should contact the Department for Communities’ Make the Call Service via Freephone number 0800 232 1271 or by emailing makethecall@dfcni.gov.uk.
Cystic Fibrosis Trust can provide a range of grants for people with cystic fibrosis and their families.
www.cysticfibrosis.org.uk/the-work-we-do/support-available/financial-support
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015982%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412285","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412285"}},{"id":"411694","reference":"AQW 15766/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-26","answerBy":"2024-10-11","answered":"2024-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps being taken to ensure the availability of GLP-1 medication for GPs to prescribe, despite current shortages across the United Kingdom.","answerText":"The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) leads on the maintenance of medicine supply chains to the UK and works closely with the devolved administrations, including my Department and other operators within the supply chain. There are national and local tools and processes that can be put in place if a supply disruption occurs, including providing advice and guidance to GPs on the actions they can take to help mitigate the impact on patients.\n\nDue to an increase in demand for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) for licensed and off-label use, some strengths and preparations of these products have been experiencing limited and intermittent supplies across the UK since mid-2023. As a consequence, several national and local tools and processes have been implemented during this time to ensure patients with type-2 diabetes can continue to have access to appropriate treatments.\n\nThrough national and local medicines shortage management groups, agreed communications have been issued to healthcare professionals involved in the prescribing and dispensing of GLP-1 RAs, including GPs. These communications have included National Patient Safety Alerts, and as the supply situation of some GLP-1 RA products has improved, a Medicine Supply Notification was issued on 19 March 2024 for semaglutide, dulaglutide and liraglutide, providing updated advice and actions to take to ensure patients can continue to have access to appropriate treatments for their type-2 diabetes diagnosis.\n\nThe NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service (SPS) also provides advice to healthcare professionals on prescribing available GLP-1 RAs. As well as this, healthcare professionals in Northern Ireland (NI), including GPs and pharmacists, are encouraged to register on the SPS website and use the SPS medicines supply tool, which is updated regularly by DHSC, for the most up-to-date advice on medicines shortages.\n\nAdditionally, GLP-1 RAs were added to a list which prevents the hoarding and export of medicines from the UK on 17 June 2023. These products remain on the list ensuring any GLP-1 RA stock residing in the UK can be made available to patients.\n\nIn terms of local mitigations, GLP-1 RAs were added to the NI Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) Authorised Route (NIMAR) list. Addition to the NIMAR list permits the movement of medicines authorised for the Great Britain (GB) market to be supplied to NI. This has ensured patients in NI can continue to have the same access to stock as those in GB.\n\nMy Department will continue to work with DHSC and the other devolved administrations, through agreed medicines shortage management groups, to ensure any additional steps, deemed appropriate, can be put in place to make GLP-1 RAs available for GPs to prescribe.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) leads on the maintenance of medicine supply chains to the UK and works closely with the devolved administrations, including my Department and other operators within the supply chain. There are national and local tools and processes that can be put in place if a supply disruption occurs, including providing advice and guidance to GPs on the actions they can take to help mitigate the impact on patients.
Due to an increase in demand for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) for licensed and off-label use, some strengths and preparations of these products have been experiencing limited and intermittent supplies across the UK since mid-2023. As a consequence, several national and local tools and processes have been implemented during this time to ensure patients with type-2 diabetes can continue to have access to appropriate treatments.
Through national and local medicines shortage management groups, agreed communications have been issued to healthcare professionals involved in the prescribing and dispensing of GLP-1 RAs, including GPs. These communications have included National Patient Safety Alerts, and as the supply situation of some GLP-1 RA products has improved, a Medicine Supply Notification was issued on 19 March 2024 for semaglutide, dulaglutide and liraglutide, providing updated advice and actions to take to ensure patients can continue to have access to appropriate treatments for their type-2 diabetes diagnosis.
The NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service (SPS) also provides advice to healthcare professionals on prescribing available GLP-1 RAs. As well as this, healthcare professionals in Northern Ireland (NI), including GPs and pharmacists, are encouraged to register on the SPS website and use the SPS medicines supply tool, which is updated regularly by DHSC, for the most up-to-date advice on medicines shortages.
Additionally, GLP-1 RAs were added to a list which prevents the hoarding and export of medicines from the UK on 17 June 2023. These products remain on the list ensuring any GLP-1 RA stock residing in the UK can be made available to patients.
In terms of local mitigations, GLP-1 RAs were added to the NI Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) Authorised Route (NIMAR) list. Addition to the NIMAR list permits the movement of medicines authorised for the Great Britain (GB) market to be supplied to NI. This has ensured patients in NI can continue to have the same access to stock as those in GB.
My Department will continue to work with DHSC and the other devolved administrations, through agreed medicines shortage management groups, to ensure any additional steps, deemed appropriate, can be put in place to make GLP-1 RAs available for GPs to prescribe.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015766%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411694","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411694"}},{"id":"413151","reference":"AQO 921/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-26","answerBy":"2024-10-07","answered":"2024-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plans.","answerText":"The Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan is designed to complement the Housing Executive’s Homelessness Strategy. It focuses on addressing gaps in non-accommodation services which have the potential to improve the lives, and life chances, of people who are experiencing homelessness and those who are most at risk of homelessness.\n\nThe Fourth Plan, which contained thirteen actions, was published on 21 September 2023. My Department published the outcome report on 30 September 2024.\n\nMy officials are actively engaging with colleagues across Departments to develop the Fifth Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan and presented a draft to the voluntary and community sector on 25 September.\n\nThe resulting discussion and feedback will feed into the further development of the next plan which will run until 31 March 2026.\n\nI would like to thank my Ministerial colleagues for their commitment to this work. Addressing the issues which contribute to homelessness takes a collective, whole of Government approach.","answerHtml":"The Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan is designed to complement the Housing Executive’s Homelessness Strategy. It focuses on addressing gaps in non-accommodation services which have the potential to improve the lives, and life chances, of people who are experiencing homelessness and those who are most at risk of homelessness.
The Fourth Plan, which contained thirteen actions, was published on 21 September 2023. My Department published the outcome report on 30 September 2024.
My officials are actively engaging with colleagues across Departments to develop the Fifth Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan and presented a draft to the voluntary and community sector on 25 September.
The resulting discussion and feedback will feed into the further development of the next plan which will run until 31 March 2026.
I would like to thank my Ministerial colleagues for their commitment to this work. Addressing the issues which contribute to homelessness takes a collective, whole of Government approach.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20921%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=413151","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=413151"}},{"id":"410938","reference":"AQW 15429/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-20","answerBy":"2024-10-07","answered":"2024-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 8708/22-27, to detail the progress of the regional medical workforce review of Consultants, Specialists and Associate Specialists.","answerText":"Recurrent funding has been provided for the Cardiac Network’s Clinical Lead post. Funding for the Heart Failure Lead and the Cardiac Rehabilitation Lead posts has also been provided for the duration of these projects.\n\nIn relation to the Cardiac Network’s Workplan, service developments have been progressed in the following areas:\n\nThe pacing workstream achieved a regional consensus on the referral and management pathway of patients presenting to hospital with bradyarrhythmia. An agreed process has been implemented for escalation and safe inter-hospital transfer of these patients to a regional centre, if required. This was achieved with no additional funding.\n\nIn line with NICE guidelines, the Rapid Angina Assessment Clinic (RAAC) workstream implemented a regional pathway for the assessment and diagnosis of patients with new on-set chest pain suggestive of stable angina. This was achieved with no additional funding.\n\nThe palpitation pathway was expanded to Mid Ulster GP practices. This expansion was cost-neutral due to repurposing of monitors.\n\nPre-operative guidelines for inpatients awaiting cardiac surgery have been revised and agreed resulting in streamlined access to inpatient cardiac surgery. This was achieved with no additional funding.\n\nWork relating to other areas of the workplan is ongoing with no funding allocated at present.\n\nIn relation to the regional medical workforce review of Consultants, Specialists and Associate Specialists, to date a regional survey has been completed establishing a cardiology staffing baseline. In light of other Workplan priorities, the aim is to continue the review next year.","answerHtml":"Recurrent funding has been provided for the Cardiac Network’s Clinical Lead post. Funding for the Heart Failure Lead and the Cardiac Rehabilitation Lead posts has also been provided for the duration of these projects.
In relation to the Cardiac Network’s Workplan, service developments have been progressed in the following areas:
The pacing workstream achieved a regional consensus on the referral and management pathway of patients presenting to hospital with bradyarrhythmia. An agreed process has been implemented for escalation and safe inter-hospital transfer of these patients to a regional centre, if required. This was achieved with no additional funding.
In line with NICE guidelines, the Rapid Angina Assessment Clinic (RAAC) workstream implemented a regional pathway for the assessment and diagnosis of patients with new on-set chest pain suggestive of stable angina. This was achieved with no additional funding.
The palpitation pathway was expanded to Mid Ulster GP practices. This expansion was cost-neutral due to repurposing of monitors.
Pre-operative guidelines for inpatients awaiting cardiac surgery have been revised and agreed resulting in streamlined access to inpatient cardiac surgery. This was achieved with no additional funding.
Work relating to other areas of the workplan is ongoing with no funding allocated at present.
In relation to the regional medical workforce review of Consultants, Specialists and Associate Specialists, to date a regional survey has been completed establishing a cardiology staffing baseline. In light of other Workplan priorities, the aim is to continue the review next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015429%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410938","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410938"}},{"id":"410937","reference":"AQW 15428/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-20","answerBy":"2024-10-07","answered":"2024-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 8708/22-27, whether any service developments have resulted from these workstreams, including whether funding has been allocated towards their implementation.","answerText":"Recurrent funding has been provided for the Cardiac Network’s Clinical Lead post. Funding for the Heart Failure Lead and the Cardiac Rehabilitation Lead posts has also been provided for the duration of these projects.\n\nIn relation to the Cardiac Network’s Workplan, service developments have been progressed in the following areas:\n\nThe pacing workstream achieved a regional consensus on the referral and management pathway of patients presenting to hospital with bradyarrhythmia. An agreed process has been implemented for escalation and safe inter-hospital transfer of these patients to a regional centre, if required. This was achieved with no additional funding.\n\nIn line with NICE guidelines, the Rapid Angina Assessment Clinic (RAAC) workstream implemented a regional pathway for the assessment and diagnosis of patients with new on-set chest pain suggestive of stable angina. This was achieved with no additional funding.\n\nThe palpitation pathway was expanded to Mid Ulster GP practices. This expansion was cost-neutral due to repurposing of monitors.\n\nPre-operative guidelines for inpatients awaiting cardiac surgery have been revised and agreed resulting in streamlined access to inpatient cardiac surgery. This was achieved with no additional funding.\n\nWork relating to other areas of the workplan is ongoing with no funding allocated at present.\n\nIn relation to the regional medical workforce review of Consultants, Specialists and Associate Specialists, to date a regional survey has been completed establishing a cardiology staffing baseline. In light of other Workplan priorities, the aim is to continue the review next year.","answerHtml":"Recurrent funding has been provided for the Cardiac Network’s Clinical Lead post. Funding for the Heart Failure Lead and the Cardiac Rehabilitation Lead posts has also been provided for the duration of these projects.
In relation to the Cardiac Network’s Workplan, service developments have been progressed in the following areas:
The pacing workstream achieved a regional consensus on the referral and management pathway of patients presenting to hospital with bradyarrhythmia. An agreed process has been implemented for escalation and safe inter-hospital transfer of these patients to a regional centre, if required. This was achieved with no additional funding.
In line with NICE guidelines, the Rapid Angina Assessment Clinic (RAAC) workstream implemented a regional pathway for the assessment and diagnosis of patients with new on-set chest pain suggestive of stable angina. This was achieved with no additional funding.
The palpitation pathway was expanded to Mid Ulster GP practices. This expansion was cost-neutral due to repurposing of monitors.
Pre-operative guidelines for inpatients awaiting cardiac surgery have been revised and agreed resulting in streamlined access to inpatient cardiac surgery. This was achieved with no additional funding.
Work relating to other areas of the workplan is ongoing with no funding allocated at present.
In relation to the regional medical workforce review of Consultants, Specialists and Associate Specialists, to date a regional survey has been completed establishing a cardiology staffing baseline. In light of other Workplan priorities, the aim is to continue the review next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015428%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410937","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410937"}},{"id":"410936","reference":"AQW 15427/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-20","answerBy":"2024-10-07","answered":"2024-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether recurrent funding has been secured for the (i) Clinical Lead; (ii) Heart Failure Lead; and (iii) Prevention and Rehabilitation Lead of the Cardiac Network.","answerText":"Recurrent funding has been provided for the Cardiac Network’s Clinical Lead post. Funding for the Heart Failure Lead and the Cardiac Rehabilitation Lead posts has also been provided for the duration of these projects.\n\nIn relation to the Cardiac Network’s Workplan, service developments have been progressed in the following areas:\n\nThe pacing workstream achieved a regional consensus on the referral and management pathway of patients presenting to hospital with bradyarrhythmia. An agreed process has been implemented for escalation and safe inter-hospital transfer of these patients to a regional centre, if required. This was achieved with no additional funding.\n\nIn line with NICE guidelines, the Rapid Angina Assessment Clinic (RAAC) workstream implemented a regional pathway for the assessment and diagnosis of patients with new on-set chest pain suggestive of stable angina. This was achieved with no additional funding.\n\nThe palpitation pathway was expanded to Mid Ulster GP practices. This expansion was cost-neutral due to repurposing of monitors.\n\nPre-operative guidelines for inpatients awaiting cardiac surgery have been revised and agreed resulting in streamlined access to inpatient cardiac surgery. This was achieved with no additional funding.\n\nWork relating to other areas of the workplan is ongoing with no funding allocated at present.\n\nIn relation to the regional medical workforce review of Consultants, Specialists and Associate Specialists, to date a regional survey has been completed establishing a cardiology staffing baseline. In light of other Workplan priorities, the aim is to continue the review next year.","answerHtml":"Recurrent funding has been provided for the Cardiac Network’s Clinical Lead post. Funding for the Heart Failure Lead and the Cardiac Rehabilitation Lead posts has also been provided for the duration of these projects.
In relation to the Cardiac Network’s Workplan, service developments have been progressed in the following areas:
The pacing workstream achieved a regional consensus on the referral and management pathway of patients presenting to hospital with bradyarrhythmia. An agreed process has been implemented for escalation and safe inter-hospital transfer of these patients to a regional centre, if required. This was achieved with no additional funding.
In line with NICE guidelines, the Rapid Angina Assessment Clinic (RAAC) workstream implemented a regional pathway for the assessment and diagnosis of patients with new on-set chest pain suggestive of stable angina. This was achieved with no additional funding.
The palpitation pathway was expanded to Mid Ulster GP practices. This expansion was cost-neutral due to repurposing of monitors.
Pre-operative guidelines for inpatients awaiting cardiac surgery have been revised and agreed resulting in streamlined access to inpatient cardiac surgery. This was achieved with no additional funding.
Work relating to other areas of the workplan is ongoing with no funding allocated at present.
In relation to the regional medical workforce review of Consultants, Specialists and Associate Specialists, to date a regional survey has been completed establishing a cardiology staffing baseline. In light of other Workplan priorities, the aim is to continue the review next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015427%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410936","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410936"}},{"id":"410837","reference":"AQO 898/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-19","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-10-01","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline the work of his Department to prevent puppy trafficking to Northern Ireland.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"With your permission, Mr Speaker, I will answer questions 4 and 14 together. My Department created the Paws for Thought multi-agency group in 2020 to coordinate the actions of relevant statutory agencies here in order to disrupt the trafficking of low-welfare pups. The group comprises representatives from the police; HMRC; councils; Belfast Harbour Police; ferry companies; and officials from my Department. Through that group, it has been possible to target individuals who are known to move consignments of low-welfare pups to Great Britain through ferry terminals. That joined-up working has resulted in a significant number of seizures of pups and the criminal convictions of those who are involved. In addition to the targeted checks, follow-up activities are carried out to identify potential illegal breeding sites. As well as pups that have been illegally bred in Northern Ireland, my Department and its partner agencies remain aware that pups are being moved illegally from unlicensed breeding establishments in the Republic of Ireland to domestic premises in Northern Ireland. There is, therefore, regular liaison between DAERA officials and their Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine counterparts to consider the detection of illegal trading of pups in both jurisdictions. A Paws for Thought public-facing awareness campaign is ongoing to highlight the role that everyone has to play in tackling puppy smuggling. Increased communications are planned in the lead-up to Christmas, a time when there is usually an increased demand, in a bid to raise awareness of that abhorrent, illegal trade and to ensure that potential owners source pups responsibly."},{"speaker":"Mr Beattie","text":"Thank you, Minister. It is good that you have recognised the fact that there is a trade coming from the Irish Republic into Northern Ireland and then onwards to Great Britain. Lucy's law, which is already being used in a part of the United Kingdom — England — is making a real dent on puppy and kitten trafficking. The Minister said he was going to look into Lucy's law. Will he give us an update on whether we will look at that?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"I thank the Member for his question. It is really an abhorrent trade. I was in Larne a few weeks ago to see the work of the multi-agency approach. Some of the stuff that I heard was shocking, including the story of an attempt to smuggle pups that were hidden under garden waste through the port. That is wrong. We need to ensure that the public is made aware of it so that no one ever participates in or facilitates it, because it is absolutely despicable."},{"speaker":"","text":"I have given a commitment to bring forward Lucy's law, so I will do that. It is key that we bring forward that legislation. What is more, I am engaging with animal welfare stakeholders in the short time ahead to discuss the wider issue of animal welfare and what else we can do on that. One of the key issues that will affect what I can do to tackle animal cruelty is the budget settlement that I get for next year. I need staff resources to bring forward legislation, whether it is secondary or primary legislation, to deal with that issue, which is a stain on our society."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. I am always very happy to hear about the Minister's going to Larne. Can he give any further details on what impact those actions are having on that cruel trade?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"It was good to be in Larne. I got a warm welcome. I really commend the multi-agency work that is being done on this. It is an example of what we can and should do to deal with those issues. It is absolutely critical. What I have seen is that there has been a real deterrent effect as a result of the work that is being undertaken. It has also given us the information for HMRC, especially, to follow up and take action on that. That has proven to be extremely effective. If people want more information on that or publicity materials that they can share, I encourage them to contact me. I can provide that."},{"speaker":"Miss Brogan","text":"Can the Minister outline the role that the Paws for Thought multi-agency group will play in coordinating efforts between stakeholders to address different animal welfare issues?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"It is absolutely key, because it is sharing not only intelligence but ways in which to promote the efforts that it is making on that. That is why I want to engage with animal welfare stakeholders to see how much more we can bring them on board with what we are doing, because we need to be able to work together to tackle those issues. It is not just about puppy smuggling; we need to work together on a number of other issues. As I said, the key issue is how much funding I will get to enable me to support that in the time ahead."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20898%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410837","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-10-01&docID=411418#AQO%20898/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410837"}},{"id":"410817","reference":"AQO 878/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-19","answerBy":"2024-09-30","answered":"2024-09-30","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline how her Department is working to reduce its carbon footprint.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"My Department is committed to delivering its responsibilities under the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 and in supporting DAERA in the development of the first Northern Ireland climate action plan. While the Department of Justice is not a sectoral lead under the Act, we aim to contribute to the sectors of buildings, transport and energy. Our 2023 outline sustainability strategy sets out our goals and supporting actions to reduce our carbon footprint. For example, we have established 2021-22 as our baseline year for measuring our energy consumption and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. We have an active information programme in place to encourage behavioural change with our staff, both in the workplace and at home."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"Thanks to the Minister for her answer. Will the Minister give some detail on the scope of her Department's sustainability strategy?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"The Department's strategy covers the core Department and its agencies. Central to the delivery of the Department's strategy are the respective strategies of NICTS, the Northern Ireland Prison Service and the PSNI. They have their own goals and targets, and they are reported on separately. The Department's agenda is progressed under three sustainability pillars: economic, social and environmental, each with its own supporting actions. Key to the delivery of the strategy was the establishment of that baseline year as 2021-22, so we can manage our energy consumption and measure it against that particular aspect. We have some key initiatives in progress. The solar farm at Hydebank Wood is now operational and has the capacity to reduce electricity bills by up to £60,000 per year. The Prison Service is also working in collaboration with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, RSPB and Woodland Trust to develop biodiversity action plans for each of our sites, because one thing that we do have is space and land. It is also playing a leading role in sustainability in prisons. An international conference was held in York on 24 and 25 September, to which Prison Service staff made contributions. Finally, we have solar panels installed on several courthouses, including on Laganside. Most importantly, the modernisation of the Royal Courts of Justice project aspires to make the Royal Courts of Justice, a building of the same era as this one, the first fully decarbonised, grade A listed building in Northern Ireland. That includes refurbishment of the old town hall building when it reopens. It will make a significant impact in to the heritage and the environment."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20878%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410817","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-09-30&docID=411417#AQO%20878/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410817"}},{"id":"410561","reference":"AQW 15282/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-18","answerBy":"2024-10-03","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, when a patient has been diagnosed with heart failure, to detail the waiting time from diagnosis to titration, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015282%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410561","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410561"}},{"id":"410343","reference":"AQW 15184/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-17","answerBy":"2024-10-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of people with suspected heart failure and an NT proBNP level between 400 and 2,000 ng/litre (47 to 236 pmol/litre) that received specialist assessment and transthoracic echocardiography; and (ii) the number of these patients that were seen within six weeks, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015184%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410343","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410343"}},{"id":"410342","reference":"AQW 15183/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-17","answerBy":"2024-10-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of people with suspected heart failure and an NT proBNP level above 2,000 ng/litre (236 pmol/litre) that received specialist assessment and transthoracic echocardiography; and (ii) the number of these patients that were seen within two weeks, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015183%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410342","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410342"}},{"id":"410341","reference":"AQW 15182/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-17","answerBy":"2024-10-02","answered":"2024-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of people that have had N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide blood tests to assist in the diagnosis of heart failure in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"There is no data available pertaining specifically to the number of people, whose NT-proBNP blood tests assisted in diagnosing heart failure. However, the table below details the total number of NT-proBNP blood tests performed, which are requested for people with suspected heart failure. The table also includes the number ofNT-proBNP blood tests with a result >400ng/litre, which would predominantly indicate a likelihood of a heart failure diagnosis (however, some people may have a raised NTproBNP due to other conditions, such as pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary embolism and heart valve disease, etc). The data provided in the table below illustrates the status over the last five financial years and is broken down by individual HSC Trust ( with the exception of the South Eastern HSC Trust, whose NT-proBNP blood tests are processed by the Belfast HSC Trust laboratories).\n\nFY\tHSC Trust\tTOTAL Number of NT-proBNP blood tests performed\tNumber of NT-proBNP blood testswith a result >400ng/L\n2019/20\tBelfast\t32,068\t*15,313\n2020/21\t\t23,462\t*11,374\n2021/22\t\t31,351\t*14,232\n2022/23\t\t34,228\t*14,126\n2023/24\t\t38,493\t*14,125\n2019/20\tNorthern\t11,321\t5,335\n2020/21\t\t12,291\t6,440\n2021/22\t\t16,741\t8,240\n2022/23\t\t17,258\t8,015\n2023/24\t\t18,544\t8,395\n2019/20\tSouthern\t16,871\t8,340\n2020/21\t\t15,970\t8,633\n2021/22\t\t21,550\t10,795\n2022/23\t\t24,660\t12,021\n2023/24\t\t26,845\t13,061\n2019/20\tWestern\t15,447\t8,996\n2020/21\t\t14,425\t8,334\n2021/22\t\t18,381\t10,108\n2022/23\t\t19,079\t10,311\n2023/24\t\t19,762\t10,291\n\n*Calendar year figures","answerHtml":"There is no data available pertaining specifically to the number of people, whose NT-proBNP blood tests assisted in diagnosing heart failure. However, the table below details the total number of NT-proBNP blood tests performed, which are requested for people with suspected heart failure. The table also includes the number ofNT-proBNP blood tests with a result >400ng/litre, which would predominantly indicate a likelihood of a heart failure diagnosis (however, some people may have a raised NTproBNP due to other conditions, such as pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary embolism and heart valve disease, etc). The data provided in the table below illustrates the status over the last five financial years and is broken down by individual HSC Trust ( with the exception of the South Eastern HSC Trust, whose NT-proBNP blood tests are processed by the Belfast HSC Trust laboratories).
| FY | HSC Trust | TOTAL Number of NT-proBNP blood tests performed | Number of NT-proBNP blood testswith a result >400ng/L |
| 2019/20 | Belfast | 32,068 | *15,313 |
| 2020/21 | 23,462 | *11,374 | |
| 2021/22 | 31,351 | *14,232 | |
| 2022/23 | 34,228 | *14,126 | |
| 2023/24 | 38,493 | *14,125 | |
| 2019/20 | Northern | 11,321 | 5,335 |
| 2020/21 | 12,291 | 6,440 | |
| 2021/22 | 16,741 | 8,240 | |
| 2022/23 | 17,258 | 8,015 | |
| 2023/24 | 18,544 | 8,395 | |
| 2019/20 | Southern | 16,871 | 8,340 |
| 2020/21 | 15,970 | 8,633 | |
| 2021/22 | 21,550 | 10,795 | |
| 2022/23 | 24,660 | 12,021 | |
| 2023/24 | 26,845 | 13,061 | |
| 2019/20 | Western | 15,447 | 8,996 |
| 2020/21 | 14,425 | 8,334 | |
| 2021/22 | 18,381 | 10,108 | |
| 2022/23 | 19,079 | 10,311 | |
| 2023/24 | 19,762 | 10,291 |
*Calendar year figures
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015182%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410341","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410341"}},{"id":"410340","reference":"AQW 15181/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-17","answerBy":"2024-10-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the percentage of GPs that have access to N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide blood tests to assist in the diagnosis of heart failure, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015181%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410340","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410340"}},{"id":"410339","reference":"AQW 15180/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-17","answerBy":"2024-10-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide blood tests are available to assist in the diagnosis of heart failure in each of the Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015180%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410339","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410339"}},{"id":"410122","reference":"AQW 15080/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-16","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the progress of outstanding repairs required for Larne High School.","answerText":"The Education Authority’s (EA) Maintenance Service is currently investigating ongoing damp issues in classrooms at Larne High School. The building contractor attended the school in September 2024 and EA will liaise with the school regarding the contractor’s recommendations and follow up actions.\n\nThe EA has initiated an unavoidable minor works regarding the school’s changing facilities, which require a full refurbishment. The EA is currently reviewing the options for this project.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority’s (EA) Maintenance Service is currently investigating ongoing damp issues in classrooms at Larne High School. The building contractor attended the school in September 2024 and EA will liaise with the school regarding the contractor’s recommendations and follow up actions.
The EA has initiated an unavoidable minor works regarding the school’s changing facilities, which require a full refurbishment. The EA is currently reviewing the options for this project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015080%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410122"}},{"id":"409975","reference":"AQW 14993/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-13","answerBy":"2024-09-30","answered":"2024-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the criteria used to determine whether a planning application is defined as regionally significant, for the purpose of calling in planning applications from local councils.","answerText":"Section 29(1) of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 allows my Department to direct that an individual application or applications for planning permission be referred (called in) to my Department instead of being dealt with by a council. This power is discretionary in nature and there is no legal limitation on its scope. The current planning policy context for the potential ‘call in’ of an application is provided by the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) 2015 which states that the process provides a necessary safeguard where there are applications that raise issues of such importance that their impact is considered to extend to a sub-regional or regional level. It notes that this discretionary power will only be used in exceptional circumstances and that councils are best placed to deal with the vast majority of applications within their own council areas.\n\nThere are no specific criteria for considering whether or not a planning application should be called in from a council. Each notification, or third party ‘call in’ request, is therefore considered on a case by case basis.","answerHtml":"Section 29(1) of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 allows my Department to direct that an individual application or applications for planning permission be referred (called in) to my Department instead of being dealt with by a council. This power is discretionary in nature and there is no legal limitation on its scope. The current planning policy context for the potential ‘call in’ of an application is provided by the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) 2015 which states that the process provides a necessary safeguard where there are applications that raise issues of such importance that their impact is considered to extend to a sub-regional or regional level. It notes that this discretionary power will only be used in exceptional circumstances and that councils are best placed to deal with the vast majority of applications within their own council areas.
There are no specific criteria for considering whether or not a planning application should be called in from a council. Each notification, or third party ‘call in’ request, is therefore considered on a case by case basis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014993%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409975","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409975"}},{"id":"409974","reference":"AQW 14992/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-13","answerBy":"2024-09-30","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of cancellations in elective surgery due to the separation of emergency and elective surgery in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014992%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409974","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409974"}},{"id":"412381","reference":"AQO 848/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-12","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the support his Department is providing to community pharmacies as a result of the fluctuating prices of medication.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Drug Tariff, published monthly, details the reimbursement paid to community pharmacy contractors for drugs and appliances dispensed against HSC prescriptions.\n\nGiven that prices for reimbursement in the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff are set at the start of the month, if there is significant price instability or price fluctuations in-month for drugs, there is a mechanism to reset the price during the month – this is called the “concessionary price” mechanism.\n\nFor example, in August 2024, there were 151 concessionary prices awarded in Northern Ireland.\n\nFrom April’24, the previous Health Minister determined that all drugs “on concession” would be Zero Discount i.e. discount clawback will not be applied.\n\nIn Northern Ireland, unlike other parts of the UK, a special advance is in the pharmacy system for “drugs on concession” in acknowledgement of the volatility of the pharmaceutical supply chain. This has been in place since January 2018 and is currently £3,000 per contractor.\n\nDrug reimbursement in Northern Ireland is not on an item per item basis but rather a target amount of margin or retained purchase profit is adopted such that overall, there will be a level of income associated with the reimbursement of medicines i.e. a cost of drugs plus target margin. This is monitored via the Northern Ireland Ongoing Margin survey which is carried out in parallel by colleagues in Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland and the Business Services Organisation.\n\nI can advise that the levels of margin delivered over the last three years have been significantly above the (previous) minimum threshold of at least £26.5million: with the latest available figure for 22/23 being £37.6m.\n\nIn April 2024, my colleague previous Minister Swann agreed to increase this minimum threshold from £26.5m up to £31.5m along with a move towards new processes in 2024/25 to ensure more timely OMS result reporting.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Drug Tariff, published monthly, details the reimbursement paid to community pharmacy contractors for drugs and appliances dispensed against HSC prescriptions.
Given that prices for reimbursement in the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff are set at the start of the month, if there is significant price instability or price fluctuations in-month for drugs, there is a mechanism to reset the price during the month – this is called the “concessionary price” mechanism.
For example, in August 2024, there were 151 concessionary prices awarded in Northern Ireland.
From April’24, the previous Health Minister determined that all drugs “on concession” would be Zero Discount i.e. discount clawback will not be applied.
In Northern Ireland, unlike other parts of the UK, a special advance is in the pharmacy system for “drugs on concession” in acknowledgement of the volatility of the pharmaceutical supply chain. This has been in place since January 2018 and is currently £3,000 per contractor.
Drug reimbursement in Northern Ireland is not on an item per item basis but rather a target amount of margin or retained purchase profit is adopted such that overall, there will be a level of income associated with the reimbursement of medicines i.e. a cost of drugs plus target margin. This is monitored via the Northern Ireland Ongoing Margin survey which is carried out in parallel by colleagues in Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland and the Business Services Organisation.
I can advise that the levels of margin delivered over the last three years have been significantly above the (previous) minimum threshold of at least £26.5million: with the latest available figure for 22/23 being £37.6m.
In April 2024, my colleague previous Minister Swann agreed to increase this minimum threshold from £26.5m up to £31.5m along with a move towards new processes in 2024/25 to ensure more timely OMS result reporting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20848%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412381","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412381"}},{"id":"409888","reference":"AQO 832/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-12","answerBy":"2024-09-23","answered":"2024-09-23","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on the InterTradeIreland budget.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"InterTradeIreland's budget reflects its operating needs, in line with its annual business plan. For 2024, InterTradeIreland's budget is £15·4 million. The split is on a one third/two thirds basis between my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE). My Department's contribution is £5·2 million, and DETE's contribution is £10·2 million. It is worth noting that InterTradeIreland can access additional funding, including from the Shared Island Fund, where it leads on women's entrepreneurship and clustering in partnership with Invest NI and Enterprise Ireland."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. Is the Minister satisfied that the budget is sufficient to match the uplift in pay elsewhere in the public sector, while enabling InterTradeIreland to carry on and, indeed, enhance existing projects?"},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"The consequence of the additional funding that we put in has been to raise the headcount in InterTradeIreland from 47 to 65, and it is recruiting for those posts. It obviously covers the anticipated staff costs, and the request for staff is to meet the challenges. InterTradeIreland will be a key component in ensuring, in relation to the last question, that the advantages of dual market access are properly understood and advanced by businesses across the island. It has other important programmes on clustering and women's entrepreneurship that were funded through the Shared Island Fund, but we wanted to make sure it had the complement of staff needed to deliver on the challenges and the work it will have in the time ahead. I expect that, when further business plans are developed, there may well be a request for additional resources to grow the staff, but certainly it was under-resourced for some time. InterTradeIreland is now at a point where it has sufficient staff to face the immediate challenges, and I will now look to future plans and discuss them at the North/South level with my counterpart in the South."},{"speaker":"Mr Gaston","text":"Last week, we had the announcement about appointments to Intertrade UK. Can the Minister confirm that no money from his Department is currently going to that body, meaning that it is a de facto window-dressing exercise to spare the blushes of his government partners in the DUP when they sold out on the Union?"},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"I attended the first meeting of the East-West Council, and there is no request for any resource. The body will be located in Whitehall and resourced from there. There is no request for resources from my Department, so no question around that arises. Of course, we want to see trade being as seamless as possible from east to west, North to South, into Europe and into the rest of the world. That is why we are being proactive in marketing dual market access to make sure that people understand it. That will be of benefit to all of our businesses. Of course, Brexit will continue to present challenges — unwanted challenges — to us, but that decision was taken in Britain, and we will continue to try to meet those challenges as best we can."},{"speaker":"Mr Boylan","text":"Will the Department for the Economy continue to fund InterTradeIreland at its level of need?"},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"We have moved to fund it at its level of need. It had not been funded to that level for some time, and we have already moved to do that. I anticipate that, as the level of business associated with the area in which it is working grows, there might be a requirement to re-examine that funding over the coming years. I am committed to and know that my counterpart in Dublin is committed to making sure that InterTradeIreland has the resource that it needs to do the vital job that we want it to do."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"We move now to topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20832%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409888","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-09-23&docID=410650#AQO%20832/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409888"}},{"id":"408829","reference":"AQW 14340/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-03","answerBy":"2024-09-18","answered":"2025-08-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the support being provided to pharmacies in relation to the fluctuation in prices in respect of long-term medications such as Apixaban.","answerText":"The Department of Health (DoH) NI has a statutory duty to remunerate providers of pharmaceutical services in a fair, accurate and prompt manner. It has a statutory obligation under Regulation 9 of the Pharmaceutical Services Regulations (NI) 1997, to compile and publish a statement known as the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff (NIDT).\n\nThe NIDT, published monthly, sets out the range of dispensing fees available to pharmacists (remuneration), and details the reimbursement figures paid to community pharmacy contractors towards the actual cost of drugs and appliances supplied against health service prescription forms.\n\nGiven that prices for reimbursement are set at the start of the month, if there is significant price instability or price fluctuations in-month for drugs, there is a mechanism to reset the price during the month – this is called the “concessionary price” mechanism.\n\nIn August 2024, there were 151 concessionary prices awarded, which included both strengths of apixaban (2.5mg and 5mg), the medication detailed in Mr Donnelly’s question.\n\nFrom April’24, the previous Health Minister (Swann) determined that all drugs on concession would be Zero Discount i.e. discount clawback will not be applied.\n\nIn Northern Ireland, unlike other parts of the UK, a special advance is in the system for drugs on concession in acknowledgement of the volatility of the pharmaceutical supply chain. This has been in place since January 2018, and has been flexed upwards and downwards over the last 6 years. it is currently £3,000 per contractor. SPPG continue to keep this special advance under review.\n\nIn Northern Ireland, as in other parts of the UK, reimbursement is not on an item per item basis but rather a target amount of margin or retained purchase profit is adopted such that overall, there will be a level of income associated with the reimbursement of medicines i.e. a cost of drugs plus target margin.\n\nThe levels of margin delivered over the last three years are detailed below and these have been significantly above the (previous) minimum threshold of at least £26.5million:\n\n2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\nRetained Margin (£m)\t45.4\t38.1\t37.6\n\nIn April 2024, Minister Swann agreed to increase this minimum threshold from £26.5m up to £31.5m along with a move towards new processes in 2024/25 to ensure more timely OMS result reporting.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health (DoH) NI has a statutory duty to remunerate providers of pharmaceutical services in a fair, accurate and prompt manner. It has a statutory obligation under Regulation 9 of the Pharmaceutical Services Regulations (NI) 1997, to compile and publish a statement known as the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff (NIDT).
The NIDT, published monthly, sets out the range of dispensing fees available to pharmacists (remuneration), and details the reimbursement figures paid to community pharmacy contractors towards the actual cost of drugs and appliances supplied against health service prescription forms.
Given that prices for reimbursement are set at the start of the month, if there is significant price instability or price fluctuations in-month for drugs, there is a mechanism to reset the price during the month – this is called the “concessionary price” mechanism.
In August 2024, there were 151 concessionary prices awarded, which included both strengths of apixaban (2.5mg and 5mg), the medication detailed in Mr Donnelly’s question.
From April’24, the previous Health Minister (Swann) determined that all drugs on concession would be Zero Discount i.e. discount clawback will not be applied.
In Northern Ireland, unlike other parts of the UK, a special advance is in the system for drugs on concession in acknowledgement of the volatility of the pharmaceutical supply chain. This has been in place since January 2018, and has been flexed upwards and downwards over the last 6 years. it is currently £3,000 per contractor. SPPG continue to keep this special advance under review.
In Northern Ireland, as in other parts of the UK, reimbursement is not on an item per item basis but rather a target amount of margin or retained purchase profit is adopted such that overall, there will be a level of income associated with the reimbursement of medicines i.e. a cost of drugs plus target margin.
The levels of margin delivered over the last three years are detailed below and these have been significantly above the (previous) minimum threshold of at least £26.5million:
| 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | |
| Retained Margin (£m) | 45.4 | 38.1 | 37.6 |
In April 2024, Minister Swann agreed to increase this minimum threshold from £26.5m up to £31.5m along with a move towards new processes in 2024/25 to ensure more timely OMS result reporting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014340%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408829","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408829"}},{"id":"408686","reference":"AQW 14269/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-02","answerBy":"2024-09-17","answered":"2024-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) his Department and Health and Social Care Trust plans to deliver day opportunities for people with a learning disability from September 2024; (ii) the number of people with a learning disability that will be supported each week through this; and (iii) how much of this will be delivered by voluntary and community sector providers, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"DoH are currently finalising the Learning Disability Service Model which sets out Learning Disability Services through the lens of regional consistency and supporting need at an early stage in the community. The service model sets out the Department’s vision for transitions, health & wellbeing, meaningful lives & citizenship, families & carers, home, and mental health & behavioural support services.\n\nMeaningful Lives & Citizenship in terms of Health and Social Care, aims to continue the expansion of Community-Based Day Opportunities, which will require cross-departmental and multi-agency working. This also represents a shift from traditional hours of services, to enable people with learning disabilities to access more diverse activities on evenings and weekends. There is a notable interface with Day Opportunities and Community Transport, therefore work is underway with DfI to explore opportunities to maximise this service.\n\nIt is difficult to predict the number of people with a learning disability that will be supported each week, as eligibility for Day Opportunities Services is determined following individual’s assessment of need. A Day Opportunity may be provided in line with an individual’s assessed need. Currently, Day Opportunities data is not consistently captured across all HSC Trusts. Work is commencing to support consistent collation of Day Opportunities data across HSC Trusts.\n\nThe DOH through the service model plans to carry out a review of the current Regional Day Opportunities Model on a cross-departmental basis, to define the roles across government to enable people with learning disabilities to have a meaningful life. This will include putting in place arrangements for joint resourcing and management of community services. The Department will also set and monitor KPIs for the HSC Trusts to expand Day Opportunities and the transition away from Buildings-Based Day Services.\n\nHealth and Social Care Trusts are responsible for commissioning and delivering Day Opportunities for adults with learning disabilities, aligned to assessed needs. HSC Trusts currently commission a range of Community and Voluntary Sector organisations to provide a range of locally-delivered services and opportunities.","answerHtml":"DoH are currently finalising the Learning Disability Service Model which sets out Learning Disability Services through the lens of regional consistency and supporting need at an early stage in the community. The service model sets out the Department’s vision for transitions, health & wellbeing, meaningful lives & citizenship, families & carers, home, and mental health & behavioural support services.
Meaningful Lives & Citizenship in terms of Health and Social Care, aims to continue the expansion of Community-Based Day Opportunities, which will require cross-departmental and multi-agency working. This also represents a shift from traditional hours of services, to enable people with learning disabilities to access more diverse activities on evenings and weekends. There is a notable interface with Day Opportunities and Community Transport, therefore work is underway with DfI to explore opportunities to maximise this service.
It is difficult to predict the number of people with a learning disability that will be supported each week, as eligibility for Day Opportunities Services is determined following individual’s assessment of need. A Day Opportunity may be provided in line with an individual’s assessed need. Currently, Day Opportunities data is not consistently captured across all HSC Trusts. Work is commencing to support consistent collation of Day Opportunities data across HSC Trusts.
The DOH through the service model plans to carry out a review of the current Regional Day Opportunities Model on a cross-departmental basis, to define the roles across government to enable people with learning disabilities to have a meaningful life. This will include putting in place arrangements for joint resourcing and management of community services. The Department will also set and monitor KPIs for the HSC Trusts to expand Day Opportunities and the transition away from Buildings-Based Day Services.
Health and Social Care Trusts are responsible for commissioning and delivering Day Opportunities for adults with learning disabilities, aligned to assessed needs. HSC Trusts currently commission a range of Community and Voluntary Sector organisations to provide a range of locally-delivered services and opportunities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014269%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408686","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408686"}},{"id":"409610","reference":"AQO 764/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-02","answerBy":"2024-09-10","answered":"2024-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline initiatives undertaken to support and improve mental health for people living and working in rural areas.","answerText":"Question 14 - Danny Donnelly\n\nTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline initiatives undertaken to support and improve mental health for people living and working in rural areas.\n\nAQO 764/22-27\n\nAnswer:\n\nThe Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Framework, which has been in operation since 2016, includes initiatives which address loneliness, and improve physical and mental health and well-being.\n\nThe Farm Families Health Check Programme (FFHCP) in conjunction with the Public Health Agency and the Northern Health and Social Care Trust provides a comprehensive physical and mental health screening and advice service to farmers who visit livestock markets and for rural people who attend a range of community events which the screening vehicle attends annually across Northern Ireland. Where necessary referrals are then made to General Practitioners or appropriate support services.\n\nFurther to this initiative the Rural Support charity, who are also funded through the TRPSI Programme, has become the “go to” resource for farmers and their families in rural Northern Ireland whenever they have a personal and/or farm business-related crisis.\n\nRural Support provides a range of programmes and services for farmers and farm family members in support of their farm business and personal wellbeing. Their objective is to reduce emotional distress and help alleviate poor mental health triggers which they measure through the use of the established Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing scale with onward referrals made to appropriate support services as required.\n\nMy Department also has a long-standing funding relationship with the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU), through which they promote good health and wellbeing for young people in rural areas of Northern Ireland.\n\nFinally, the College of Agriculture Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) provides a Student Support Service, accessible to all learners, which includes a focus on health and wellbeing.","answerHtml":"| Question 14 - Danny Donnelly |
| To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline initiatives undertaken to support and improve mental health for people living and working in rural areas. |
| AQO 764/22-27 |
| Answer: |
The Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Framework, which has been in operation since 2016, includes initiatives which address loneliness, and improve physical and mental health and well-being.
The Farm Families Health Check Programme (FFHCP) in conjunction with the Public Health Agency and the Northern Health and Social Care Trust provides a comprehensive physical and mental health screening and advice service to farmers who visit livestock markets and for rural people who attend a range of community events which the screening vehicle attends annually across Northern Ireland. Where necessary referrals are then made to General Practitioners or appropriate support services.
Further to this initiative the Rural Support charity, who are also funded through the TRPSI Programme, has become the “go to” resource for farmers and their families in rural Northern Ireland whenever they have a personal and/or farm business-related crisis.
Rural Support provides a range of programmes and services for farmers and farm family members in support of their farm business and personal wellbeing. Their objective is to reduce emotional distress and help alleviate poor mental health triggers which they measure through the use of the established Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing scale with onward referrals made to appropriate support services as required.
My Department also has a long-standing funding relationship with the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU), through which they promote good health and wellbeing for young people in rural areas of Northern Ireland.
Finally, the College of Agriculture Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) provides a Student Support Service, accessible to all learners, which includes a focus on health and wellbeing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20764%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409610","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409610"}},{"id":"406884","reference":"AQW 13844/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-26","answerBy":"2024-07-11","answered":"2024-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how his Department intends to support allied health professionals to deliver new National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines for stroke rehabilitation, which now recommend at least three hours of therapy, five days a week for stroke survivors; and (ii) what consideration his Department will give to the use and roll-out of new technologies and innovations, such as virtual reality, to enhance intensity and frequency of stroke rehabilitation therapies.","answerText":"I recognise the important role of Allied Health Professionals in providing rehabilitation services for stroke patients. I understand that the recent changes in National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) will further impact on existing pressures within the stroke rehabilitation service. In the context of these pressures, my Department intends to take forward a Stroke Workforce Review later this year. The Review will identify the future workforce required to deliver a high-quality stroke service and will be informed by best practice guidance including the revised NICE guidelines on stroke rehabilitation.\n\nIn the interim, my Department is supporting innovative ways of delivering stroke rehabilitation services, including a pilot of multidisciplinary team stroke rehabilitation groups in the South Eastern Trust. In addition, a pilot has also been introduced in the Belfast Trust to support the use of virtual reality in the delivery of Occupational Therapy. An app to support the delivery of Speech and Language Therapy is also currently in development. It is important to note that the introduction of such technology beyond the pilot phase is subject to additional funding.","answerHtml":"I recognise the important role of Allied Health Professionals in providing rehabilitation services for stroke patients. I understand that the recent changes in National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) will further impact on existing pressures within the stroke rehabilitation service. In the context of these pressures, my Department intends to take forward a Stroke Workforce Review later this year. The Review will identify the future workforce required to deliver a high-quality stroke service and will be informed by best practice guidance including the revised NICE guidelines on stroke rehabilitation.
In the interim, my Department is supporting innovative ways of delivering stroke rehabilitation services, including a pilot of multidisciplinary team stroke rehabilitation groups in the South Eastern Trust. In addition, a pilot has also been introduced in the Belfast Trust to support the use of virtual reality in the delivery of Occupational Therapy. An app to support the delivery of Speech and Language Therapy is also currently in development. It is important to note that the introduction of such technology beyond the pilot phase is subject to additional funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013844%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406884","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406884"}},{"id":"405817","reference":"AQW 13443/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-17","answerBy":"2024-07-02","answered":"2024-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines (i) NG106; (ii) NG136; (iii) NG196; and (iv) NG238 have been implemented across the Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"My Department has a formal link with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) under which NICE Clinical Guidelines are reviewed locally for their legal and policy applicability here. Where found to be applicable, they are endorsed for implementation within Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations.\n\nDoH Circular HSC (SQSD) 13/22 sets out process for endorsement, implementation, monitoring and assurance of Clinical Guidelines in Northern Ireland.\n\nAs there is no dedicated funding source to support the implementation of NICE Clinical Guidelines in Northern Ireland, any resources required are considered against other competing priorities.\n\nThere are a significant number of recommendations contained within each guideline. It should be noted that not all recommendations are relevant to all Trust areas and some recommendations are predominantly directed at primary care.\n\nThe extent of implementation on each of the specified guidelines varies across Trusts, however all Trusts are broadly complaint with the guidelines, notwithstanding a number of highlighted challenges which the SPPG will continue to work with Trusts to address.\n\nNG106 - Chronic heart failure in adults: diagnosis and management\n\nAll Trusts are reporting that the guidance has not been fully implemented. Issues highlighted include the impact of demographic changes leading to increased demand and the capacity within Trusts to meet the demand. In particular, heart failure services may benefit from increased numbers of specialist nurses, physiotherapists and pharmacists to ensure timely diagnosis, treatment and review of patients.\n\nNG136 - Hypertension in adults: diagnosis and management\n\nThe guideline predominantly applies to primary care however the relevant elements for Trusts are being reported as fully implemented within NHSCT, SEHSCT and WHSCT. Work is ongoing by SHSCT to achieve full compliance in the coming months.\n\nWhile BHSCT have indicated broad compliance against relevant recommendations, the Trust has highlighted ongoing capacity challenges to meet demand.\n\nNG196 - Atrial fibrillation: diagnosis and management\n\nThe guidance is being reported as fully implemented within SEHSCT, SHSCT and WHSCT, while NHSCT has implemented all recommendations relevant to Trust. BHSCT have highlighted workforce and capacity challenges impacting on the implementation of a number of recommendations.\n\nNG 238 - Cardiovascular disease: risk assessment and reduction, including lipid modification\n\nAll Trusts are reporting that the guidance has not been fully implemented. However, as this guidance was endorsed in February 2024, the SPPG’s expectation is that Trusts remain in the planning phase, moving towards implementation over the next few months.","answerHtml":"My Department has a formal link with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) under which NICE Clinical Guidelines are reviewed locally for their legal and policy applicability here. Where found to be applicable, they are endorsed for implementation within Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations.
DoH Circular HSC (SQSD) 13/22 sets out process for endorsement, implementation, monitoring and assurance of Clinical Guidelines in Northern Ireland.
As there is no dedicated funding source to support the implementation of NICE Clinical Guidelines in Northern Ireland, any resources required are considered against other competing priorities.
There are a significant number of recommendations contained within each guideline. It should be noted that not all recommendations are relevant to all Trust areas and some recommendations are predominantly directed at primary care.
The extent of implementation on each of the specified guidelines varies across Trusts, however all Trusts are broadly complaint with the guidelines, notwithstanding a number of highlighted challenges which the SPPG will continue to work with Trusts to address.
NG106 - Chronic heart failure in adults: diagnosis and management
All Trusts are reporting that the guidance has not been fully implemented. Issues highlighted include the impact of demographic changes leading to increased demand and the capacity within Trusts to meet the demand. In particular, heart failure services may benefit from increased numbers of specialist nurses, physiotherapists and pharmacists to ensure timely diagnosis, treatment and review of patients.
NG136 - Hypertension in adults: diagnosis and management
The guideline predominantly applies to primary care however the relevant elements for Trusts are being reported as fully implemented within NHSCT, SEHSCT and WHSCT. Work is ongoing by SHSCT to achieve full compliance in the coming months.
While BHSCT have indicated broad compliance against relevant recommendations, the Trust has highlighted ongoing capacity challenges to meet demand.
NG196 - Atrial fibrillation: diagnosis and management
The guidance is being reported as fully implemented within SEHSCT, SHSCT and WHSCT, while NHSCT has implemented all recommendations relevant to Trust. BHSCT have highlighted workforce and capacity challenges impacting on the implementation of a number of recommendations.
NG 238 - Cardiovascular disease: risk assessment and reduction, including lipid modification
All Trusts are reporting that the guidance has not been fully implemented. However, as this guidance was endorsed in February 2024, the SPPG’s expectation is that Trusts remain in the planning phase, moving towards implementation over the next few months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013443%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405817"}},{"id":"405352","reference":"AQW 13272/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-12","answerBy":"2024-06-17","answered":"2024-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the impact of encompass on children's chemotherapy services at the Royal Victoria Hospital.","answerText":"The Trust had plans in place, pre encompass go-live, to protect time-critical work, for example, Paediatric patients requiring chemotherapy.\n\nTo date, one child has had the commencement of their chemotherapy slightly delayed with treatment which was scheduled for Monday delayed until Tuesday.\n\nNo other children requiring chemotherapy have been impacted during this time.","answerHtml":"The Trust had plans in place, pre encompass go-live, to protect time-critical work, for example, Paediatric patients requiring chemotherapy.
To date, one child has had the commencement of their chemotherapy slightly delayed with treatment which was scheduled for Monday delayed until Tuesday.
No other children requiring chemotherapy have been impacted during this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013272%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405352","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405352"}},{"id":"405351","reference":"AQW 13271/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-12","answerBy":"2024-06-27","answered":"2025-08-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the £100,000 savings made in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust in 2023-24 from the Travel Contribution Scheme for medical students; and (ii) to detail savings made by the (a) Western Health and Social Care Trust; and (b) the Southern Health and Social Care Trust in 2023-24.","answerText":"The Pilot Travel Contribution Scheme has not yet been evaluated and so no assessment of potential savings has been made.\n\nThe Pilot Travel Contribution Scheme will be evaluated in Autumn 2024. Until this validation is complete, it is not possible to outline any savings in individual HSC Trusts.","answerHtml":"The Pilot Travel Contribution Scheme has not yet been evaluated and so no assessment of potential savings has been made.
The Pilot Travel Contribution Scheme will be evaluated in Autumn 2024. Until this validation is complete, it is not possible to outline any savings in individual HSC Trusts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013271%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405351","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405351"}},{"id":"405350","reference":"AQW 13270/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-12","answerBy":"2024-06-27","answered":"2024-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, given the savings that some Health and Social Care Trusts have made from the Travel Contribution Scheme pilot, whether he will now make the scheme central to the savings plans of those Health and Social Care Trusts that require it.","answerText":"The Travel Contribution Scheme for medical students in some Health and Social Care Trusts is at pilot stage. The Scheme will be subject to validation later this year. Until this validation is complete, it would not be appropriate to comment on any potential savings which may be realised through the Scheme.","answerHtml":"The Travel Contribution Scheme for medical students in some Health and Social Care Trusts is at pilot stage. The Scheme will be subject to validation later this year. Until this validation is complete, it would not be appropriate to comment on any potential savings which may be realised through the Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013270%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405350","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405350"}},{"id":"405349","reference":"AQW 13269/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-12","answerBy":"2024-06-27","answered":"2024-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will work with universities, Health and Social Care Trusts and the MInister for the Economy to secure an increase in the level of support provided to medical students through the Travel Contribution Scheme.","answerText":"The Travel Contribution Scheme for medical students in some Health and Social Care Trusts is at pilot stage. The Scheme will be subject to validation later this year. Until this validation is complete, it would not be appropriate to consider any changes to the level of support provided through the Scheme.","answerHtml":"The Travel Contribution Scheme for medical students in some Health and Social Care Trusts is at pilot stage. The Scheme will be subject to validation later this year. Until this validation is complete, it would not be appropriate to consider any changes to the level of support provided through the Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013269%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405349","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405349"}},{"id":"405189","reference":"AQW 13207/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-11","answerBy":"2024-06-26","answered":"2024-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether Islandmagee Energy Limited has submitted a Facility Development Plan for the gas storage facility at Islandmagee, referred to in condition 2.8 of the Gas Storage Licence.","answerText":"Yes.","answerHtml":"Yes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013207%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405189","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405189"}},{"id":"405188","reference":"AQW 13206/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-11","answerBy":"2024-06-26","answered":"2024-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether the Utility Regulator has extended the period for commencement of the carrying on of Islandmagee Energy's Licenced Business.","answerText":"No.","answerHtml":"No.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013206%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405188","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405188"}},{"id":"405187","reference":"AQW 13205/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-11","answerBy":"2024-06-26","answered":"2024-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 12118/22-27, whether Islandmagee Energy Limited has submitted financial information each year since it has held the licence in accordance with Condition 1.2.","answerText":"No. This information has not been submitted.","answerHtml":"No. This information has not been submitted.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013205%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405187","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405187"}},{"id":"406060","reference":"AQO 617/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-06","answerBy":"2024-06-18","answered":"2024-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline what plans his Department has to prioritise the prevention of youth homelessness.","answerText":"The prevention of Youth Homelessness is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. The Chief Executive has assured me that addressing homelessness and housing need amongst young people and families with children is a distinct priority for the Housing Executive.","answerHtml":"The prevention of Youth Homelessness is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. The Chief Executive has assured me that addressing homelessness and housing need amongst young people and families with children is a distinct priority for the Housing Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20617%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406060","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406060"}},{"id":"405946","reference":"AQO 609/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-06","answerBy":"2024-06-17","answered":"2024-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on actions taken to address water quality in rivers, lakes and loughs.","answerText":"I am aware that water quality across Northern Ireland is not what it should be, however work to improve the water quality of our waterbodies will require collective action across government, the public and private sectors and also wider society.\n\nI continue to engage with Executive colleagues to seek their approval of the draft Environmental Improvement Plan, the first for Northern Ireland, which lays out my commitment to improving water quality.\n\nThe draft EIP contains the requirement to publish a third cycle River Basin Management Plan for the period 2021-2027 taking an integrated approach to the protection, improvement and sustainable use of the water environment and containing a Programme of Measures setting out the actions required to protect and improve all water bodies – rivers, lakes, marine (coastal and transitional) water bodies and groundwater.\n\nAlthough still in draft, the plan has been prepared and consulted on, however, I will need time to consider it in the context of emerging information, including reports from the Northern Ireland Audit Office, the Office for Environmental Protection and the Lough Neagh Report before bringing it to the Executive for approval.\n\nMy focus is to complete this programme of work as soon as possible with my vision to have an environment where our water bodies are at “good” status or better, they support biodiversity and contribute to the health and well-being of everyone.","answerHtml":"I am aware that water quality across Northern Ireland is not what it should be, however work to improve the water quality of our waterbodies will require collective action across government, the public and private sectors and also wider society.
I continue to engage with Executive colleagues to seek their approval of the draft Environmental Improvement Plan, the first for Northern Ireland, which lays out my commitment to improving water quality.
The draft EIP contains the requirement to publish a third cycle River Basin Management Plan for the period 2021-2027 taking an integrated approach to the protection, improvement and sustainable use of the water environment and containing a Programme of Measures setting out the actions required to protect and improve all water bodies – rivers, lakes, marine (coastal and transitional) water bodies and groundwater.
Although still in draft, the plan has been prepared and consulted on, however, I will need time to consider it in the context of emerging information, including reports from the Northern Ireland Audit Office, the Office for Environmental Protection and the Lough Neagh Report before bringing it to the Executive for approval.
My focus is to complete this programme of work as soon as possible with my vision to have an environment where our water bodies are at “good” status or better, they support biodiversity and contribute to the health and well-being of everyone.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20609%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405946","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405946"}},{"id":"404307","reference":"AQW 12912/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-04","answerBy":"2024-06-19","answered":"2024-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 11434/22-27, how his Department is communicating with patients with neuromuscular conditions in relation to developments in the provision of Risdiplam in the absence of a long-term solution.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Trusts, along with SPPG, will continue to work on finalising the development of a long-term solution in respect of adult neuromuscular services, taking account of operational considerations. This will include information on the provision of Risdiplam for patients. Risdiplam is provided through Belfast Trust at present. This is owing to previous arrangement regarding service delivery with an agreed position whereby Risdiplam prescriptions are covered until 31 March 2025 in the context of service handover.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Trusts, along with SPPG, will continue to work on finalising the development of a long-term solution in respect of adult neuromuscular services, taking account of operational considerations. This will include information on the provision of Risdiplam for patients. Risdiplam is provided through Belfast Trust at present. This is owing to previous arrangement regarding service delivery with an agreed position whereby Risdiplam prescriptions are covered until 31 March 2025 in the context of service handover.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012912%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404307","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404307"}},{"id":"404306","reference":"AQW 12911/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-04","answerBy":"2024-06-19","answered":"2024-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 11434/22-27, (i) how long it is anticipated before a long-term solution is in place; and (ii) to outline the relevant details for such a solution.","answerText":"My department has engaged with Health & Social Care Trusts and established an interim contingency arrangement to ensure continuity of care for the neuromuscular patient group. My officials have anticipated that a long-term solution will be in place from mid-September.\n\nThe Health and Social Care Trusts, along with SPPG, will continue to work on finalising the development of a long-term solution in respect of adult neuromuscular services across required operational areas.","answerHtml":"My department has engaged with Health & Social Care Trusts and established an interim contingency arrangement to ensure continuity of care for the neuromuscular patient group. My officials have anticipated that a long-term solution will be in place from mid-September.
The Health and Social Care Trusts, along with SPPG, will continue to work on finalising the development of a long-term solution in respect of adult neuromuscular services across required operational areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012911%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404306","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404306"}},{"id":"404305","reference":"AQW 12910/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-04","answerBy":"2024-06-19","answered":"2024-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 11434/22-27, to detail any contingency plans in place (i) to maintain the supply of Risdiplam; and (ii) to support people who otherwise would have been starting Risdiplam.","answerText":"My department has engaged with Health & Social Care Trusts and established an interim contingency arrangement. This will ensure continuity of care for the neuromuscular patient group whilst a long -term solution is being sought. This includes maintaining the supply of Risdiplam for those patients currently accessing this treatment, ensuring those patients can continue to access this specialist medication.\n\nThe Health and Social Care Trusts, along with SPPG, will continue to work together to ensure care for those who need it.","answerHtml":"My department has engaged with Health & Social Care Trusts and established an interim contingency arrangement. This will ensure continuity of care for the neuromuscular patient group whilst a long -term solution is being sought. This includes maintaining the supply of Risdiplam for those patients currently accessing this treatment, ensuring those patients can continue to access this specialist medication.
The Health and Social Care Trusts, along with SPPG, will continue to work together to ensure care for those who need it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012910%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404305","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404305"}},{"id":"403836","reference":"AQW 12781/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-31","answerBy":"2024-06-05","answered":"2024-06-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether any functions of his Department are not currently operating as a consequence of the general election campaign.","answerText":"All functions of my Department are continuing to operate ahead of the General Election on 4 July 2024. However, in continuing to carry out those functions, officials will have regard during the formal pre-election period to the “Guidance On Conduct For Civil Servants And Special Advisers In The Northern Ireland Devolved Administration” which was issued by The Executive Office in May 2024.","answerHtml":"All functions of my Department are continuing to operate ahead of the General Election on 4 July 2024. However, in continuing to carry out those functions, officials will have regard during the formal pre-election period to the “Guidance On Conduct For Civil Servants And Special Advisers In The Northern Ireland Devolved Administration” which was issued by The Executive Office in May 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012781%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403836","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403836"}},{"id":"403359","reference":"AQW 12586/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-28","answerBy":"2024-06-12","answered":"2024-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the work of the task and finish group currently reviewing the audiology service model.","answerText":"SPPG has established Audiology Task and Finish Groups for both Paediatrics and Adults, to work with Trusts across the HSC to get a better understanding of the population’s audiology needs in Northern Ireland. This task group is currently considering referrals into the audiology service and the current workforce availability.\n\nThe Adult Audiology Task and Finish Group has met on two occasions from its establishment in February 2024 and it is planned that the review should be available by September 2024.\n\nA separate Paediatric Audiology Task and Finish Group has also been established, and several meetings have also taken place with this group. The next meeting of the Paediatric Audiology Task and Finish Group is on 19 June 2024. At this meeting the group will consider the outputs from the work on demand and capacity analysis for children.\n\nMoving forward is it planned that the two groups will amalgamate for the development of regional pathways and protocols.","answerHtml":"SPPG has established Audiology Task and Finish Groups for both Paediatrics and Adults, to work with Trusts across the HSC to get a better understanding of the population’s audiology needs in Northern Ireland. This task group is currently considering referrals into the audiology service and the current workforce availability.
The Adult Audiology Task and Finish Group has met on two occasions from its establishment in February 2024 and it is planned that the review should be available by September 2024.
A separate Paediatric Audiology Task and Finish Group has also been established, and several meetings have also taken place with this group. The next meeting of the Paediatric Audiology Task and Finish Group is on 19 June 2024. At this meeting the group will consider the outputs from the work on demand and capacity analysis for children.
Moving forward is it planned that the two groups will amalgamate for the development of regional pathways and protocols.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012586%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403359","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403359"}},{"id":"403358","reference":"AQW 12585/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-28","answerBy":"2024-06-12","answered":"2024-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the Strategic Planning and Performance Group's evaluation of the NI PEARS Plus initiative; and (ii) to detail the anticipated date for the evaluation report to be published.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service Plus (NI PEARS Plus) pilot commenced in 2023/24 and ran for thirty-three weeks, with 834 patients accessing the community optometry-based service with acute eye conditions which would otherwise have presented at Belfast HSC Trust Eye Casualty.\n\nNI PEARS Plus seeks to build on the successful NI PEARS scheme which currently manages ca. 4,000 patients in community optometry settings, closer to home.\n\nAs per commissioning specification, the pilot is currently being evaluated for impact, assessing metrics around activity, performance, clinical safety, patient experience and cost-effectiveness.\n\nThe clinical safety element has been delayed by the work required within BHSCT to prepare for the implementation of encompass but it is expected that the data from the review of the clinical records will be with SPPG to allow the evaluation to be released by end of June 2024.\n\ni) Following evaluation, and in consultation with stakeholders, Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) will make a commissioning decision on whether the service should be mainstreamed and introduced regionally, subject to available funding.\n\nii) From the initial data analysis approx. 25 patients per week were diverted from BHSCT Eye Casualty to the NIPEARS Plus service thus releasing capacity in Eye Casualty. Approximately 93% of these patients were managed to completion in primary care with approx. 7% subsequently requiring referral back into Eye Casualty as deemed too complex to be managed in primary care.\n\nThese figures are subject to validation, and the management and outcomes audited for quality and safety. Any subsequent regional roll-out would be expected to have scaled positive impact on waiting lists and times for acute eye care.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service Plus (NI PEARS Plus) pilot commenced in 2023/24 and ran for thirty-three weeks, with 834 patients accessing the community optometry-based service with acute eye conditions which would otherwise have presented at Belfast HSC Trust Eye Casualty.
NI PEARS Plus seeks to build on the successful NI PEARS scheme which currently manages ca. 4,000 patients in community optometry settings, closer to home.
As per commissioning specification, the pilot is currently being evaluated for impact, assessing metrics around activity, performance, clinical safety, patient experience and cost-effectiveness.
The clinical safety element has been delayed by the work required within BHSCT to prepare for the implementation of encompass but it is expected that the data from the review of the clinical records will be with SPPG to allow the evaluation to be released by end of June 2024.
i) Following evaluation, and in consultation with stakeholders, Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) will make a commissioning decision on whether the service should be mainstreamed and introduced regionally, subject to available funding.
ii) From the initial data analysis approx. 25 patients per week were diverted from BHSCT Eye Casualty to the NIPEARS Plus service thus releasing capacity in Eye Casualty. Approximately 93% of these patients were managed to completion in primary care with approx. 7% subsequently requiring referral back into Eye Casualty as deemed too complex to be managed in primary care.
These figures are subject to validation, and the management and outcomes audited for quality and safety. Any subsequent regional roll-out would be expected to have scaled positive impact on waiting lists and times for acute eye care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012585%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403358","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403358"}},{"id":"403357","reference":"AQW 12584/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-28","answerBy":"2024-06-12","answered":"2024-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether his Department will reform the audiology service model as a priority during this Assembly mandate; and (ii) what consideration he has given to implementing a primary care audiology service as a solution to waiting lists.","answerText":"The Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) within the Department of Health, plans and oversees the delivery of Health and Social Care for the population of Northern Ireland.\n\nSPPG has established an Audiology Task and Finish Group to work with Trusts across the HSC to get a better understanding of the population’s audiology needs in Northern Ireland. This task group is currently considering referrals into the audiology service and the current workforce availability. Following correspondences from a number of interested parties, I have asked the SPPG to consider a mixed delivery (HSC and community providers) approach to address waiting lists, should this be required beyond that already funded.\n\nIn the current situation, however, with significant financial challenges, it is important to acknowledge the underlying constraints in developing such a model.","answerHtml":"The Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) within the Department of Health, plans and oversees the delivery of Health and Social Care for the population of Northern Ireland.
SPPG has established an Audiology Task and Finish Group to work with Trusts across the HSC to get a better understanding of the population’s audiology needs in Northern Ireland. This task group is currently considering referrals into the audiology service and the current workforce availability. Following correspondences from a number of interested parties, I have asked the SPPG to consider a mixed delivery (HSC and community providers) approach to address waiting lists, should this be required beyond that already funded.
In the current situation, however, with significant financial challenges, it is important to acknowledge the underlying constraints in developing such a model.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012584%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403357"}},{"id":"403356","reference":"AQW 12583/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-28","answerBy":"2024-06-12","answered":"2024-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to address the high levels of audiology waiting times in Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"Audiology Services in Northern Ireland have been impacted by Covid, and other general overarching pressures, this has led to waiting times across the region.\n\nAt the end of last year, the SPPG was asked to establish an Audiology Task and Finish Group to work with Trusts across the HSC to get a better understanding of the population’s audiology needs in Northern Ireland. This task group is currently considering referrals and other demand into the audiology service, capacity available in each Trust and workforce need and availability.\n\nThis analysis will identify the total demand for audiology services within Northern Ireland, capacity available to manage the demand and the gap within the service in advance of any additionality required to address this.","answerHtml":"Audiology Services in Northern Ireland have been impacted by Covid, and other general overarching pressures, this has led to waiting times across the region.
At the end of last year, the SPPG was asked to establish an Audiology Task and Finish Group to work with Trusts across the HSC to get a better understanding of the population’s audiology needs in Northern Ireland. This task group is currently considering referrals and other demand into the audiology service, capacity available in each Trust and workforce need and availability.
This analysis will identify the total demand for audiology services within Northern Ireland, capacity available to manage the demand and the gap within the service in advance of any additionality required to address this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012583%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403356"}},{"id":"402533","reference":"AQW 12273/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-21","answerBy":"2024-06-06","answered":"2024-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQO 460/22-27, whether he intends to introduce legislation incorporating the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities into law before the end of this Assembly mandate.","answerText":"As I outlined in my response to AQO 460/22-27, I am currently considering the next steps to be taken in the development of an Executive Disability Strategy, which I intend to be taken forward at pace. This will include consideration of the need for a review and reform of disability legislation, including consideration of incorporating the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities into devolved legislation.\n\nThe making of an Act of the Assembly typically takes a minimum of 3 years from policy development stage to Royal Assent, particularly if there is a high degree of complexity. Review and reform of disability legislation will be wide-ranging and cross-cutting work that will require consideration and agreement across the Executive. Given the time remaining I will not be in a position to bring legislation forward in the current mandate, though preparatory work could begin as a key aspect of the Disability Strategy.\n\nFinal decisions on the content and the timings of the implementation of the Executive Strategy, including any potential reform of disability legislation in Northern Ireland, will be subject to Executive Agreement.","answerHtml":"As I outlined in my response to AQO 460/22-27, I am currently considering the next steps to be taken in the development of an Executive Disability Strategy, which I intend to be taken forward at pace. This will include consideration of the need for a review and reform of disability legislation, including consideration of incorporating the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities into devolved legislation.
The making of an Act of the Assembly typically takes a minimum of 3 years from policy development stage to Royal Assent, particularly if there is a high degree of complexity. Review and reform of disability legislation will be wide-ranging and cross-cutting work that will require consideration and agreement across the Executive. Given the time remaining I will not be in a position to bring legislation forward in the current mandate, though preparatory work could begin as a key aspect of the Disability Strategy.
Final decisions on the content and the timings of the implementation of the Executive Strategy, including any potential reform of disability legislation in Northern Ireland, will be subject to Executive Agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012273%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402533","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402533"}},{"id":"402306","reference":"AQW 12200/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-20","answerBy":"2024-05-23","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when he will answer AQW 11434/22-27.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012200%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402306","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402306"}},{"id":"402305","reference":"AQW 12199/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-20","answerBy":"2024-06-05","answered":"2024-06-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 10327/22-27, to detail the number of whole time equivalent speech and language therapists are currently employed (i) in hospital acute stroke units; and (ii) in community stroke teams, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Information provided by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts on the whole-time equivalent of speech and language therapists employed in hospital and community stroke teams, at 31 March 2024, is detailed in the table below.\n\nHSC Trust\tSpeech and language therapists employed in stroke services (WTE) at 31 March 2024\nHospital stroke units\tCommunity stroke teams\nBelfast 1\t3.5\t3.3\nNorthern 2\t0.8\t2.5\nSouth Eastern\t0.8\t3.6\nSouthern 3\t2.26\t3.5\nWestern 4\t0.0\t3.0\n\nNotes:\n\nIn BHSCT, there is an additional 1.0 WTE speech & language therapist with direct clinical, management, and professional responsibilities over both hospital and community stroke services.\n\nNHSCT note that an additional 0.5 WTE speech & language therapist time from the main inpatient team can provide communication support to stroke patients.\n\nSHSCT note that 0.65 WTE of the 2.26 WTE are based in the acute hospital Craigavon area, the remainder are in non-acute hospitals.\n\nIn WHSCT, the community speech & language therapists provide services to hospital stroke units on a sessional basis. This amounts to 1.2 WTE of the 3.0 WTE community staff available.","answerHtml":"Information provided by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts on the whole-time equivalent of speech and language therapists employed in hospital and community stroke teams, at 31 March 2024, is detailed in the table below.
| HSC Trust | Speech and language therapists employed in stroke services (WTE) at 31 March 2024 | |
| Hospital stroke units | Community stroke teams | |
| Belfast 1 | 3.5 | 3.3 |
| Northern 2 | 0.8 | 2.5 |
| South Eastern | 0.8 | 3.6 |
| Southern 3 | 2.26 | 3.5 |
| Western 4 | 0.0 | 3.0 |
Notes:
In BHSCT, there is an additional 1.0 WTE speech & language therapist with direct clinical, management, and professional responsibilities over both hospital and community stroke services.
NHSCT note that an additional 0.5 WTE speech & language therapist time from the main inpatient team can provide communication support to stroke patients.
SHSCT note that 0.65 WTE of the 2.26 WTE are based in the acute hospital Craigavon area, the remainder are in non-acute hospitals.
In WHSCT, the community speech & language therapists provide services to hospital stroke units on a sessional basis. This amounts to 1.2 WTE of the 3.0 WTE community staff available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012199%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402305","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402305"}},{"id":"402072","reference":"AQW 12119/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-17","answerBy":"2024-06-04","answered":"2024-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether there has been any progress in relation to a decommissioner of last resort strategy.","answerText":"Gas Storage: arrangements for ensuring that gas storage projects can be safely decommissioned, in the event of a project owner or operator being unable to do, have not yet been finalised.\n\nOffshore Renewable Energy Installations (OREI): OREI policy is an essential part of the overall strategic framework for the development of offshore renewable energy projects in the North. My Department published a public consultation on OREI Policy Options which closed on 8th March 2024. This considered potential legislative changes needed and put forward policy options to establish provisions for OREI decommissioning, including decommissioner of last resort as well as safety zones and rights of navigation. Responses to the consultation are currently being considered and a government response will follow in due course.","answerHtml":"Gas Storage: arrangements for ensuring that gas storage projects can be safely decommissioned, in the event of a project owner or operator being unable to do, have not yet been finalised.
Offshore Renewable Energy Installations (OREI): OREI policy is an essential part of the overall strategic framework for the development of offshore renewable energy projects in the North. My Department published a public consultation on OREI Policy Options which closed on 8th March 2024. This considered potential legislative changes needed and put forward policy options to establish provisions for OREI decommissioning, including decommissioner of last resort as well as safety zones and rights of navigation. Responses to the consultation are currently being considered and a government response will follow in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012119%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402072","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402072"}},{"id":"402071","reference":"AQW 12118/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-17","answerBy":"2024-06-04","answered":"2024-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) whether Islandmagee Energy Limited has submitted the financial information required in accordance with Condition 1.2 of its gas licence; (ii) whether there is a penalty for those who do not comply with the conditions of a licence; and (iii) what criteria the Utility Regulator uses to assess the solvency and suitability of companies to hold a licence.","answerText":"The Utility Regulator has not made any determination of non-compliance by Islandmagee Energy Ltd (IMEL) with the requirements of Condition 1.2. of its gas storage licence.\n\nThere are potential penalties for non-compliance with conditions of a gas licence. Further details are available on the Utility Regulator’s website at https://www.uregni.gov.uk/investigations-and-enforcement.\n\nSchedule 2 of IMEL’s gas storage licence (when read with paragraph 4.7 of Schedule 1) sets out circumstances that might allow the Utility Regulator to move to revoke the licence, some of which relate to what might termed ‘solvency’. The licence is published at: https://www.uregni.gov.uk/publications/islandmagee-energy-limited-formally-called-islandmagee-storage-limited-gas-storage.\n\nAny decision (and the matter is not under active consideration by the Utility Regulator for decision) to revoke the IMEL licence would be (a) informed by the requirements set out in Article 14 of the Energy (NI) Order 2003 and (b) published (with reasons) in accordance with Article 62(1) of the Energy (NI) Order 2003.","answerHtml":"The Utility Regulator has not made any determination of non-compliance by Islandmagee Energy Ltd (IMEL) with the requirements of Condition 1.2. of its gas storage licence.
There are potential penalties for non-compliance with conditions of a gas licence. Further details are available on the Utility Regulator’s website at https://www.uregni.gov.uk/investigations-and-enforcement.
Schedule 2 of IMEL’s gas storage licence (when read with paragraph 4.7 of Schedule 1) sets out circumstances that might allow the Utility Regulator to move to revoke the licence, some of which relate to what might termed ‘solvency’. The licence is published at: https://www.uregni.gov.uk/publications/islandmagee-energy-limited-formally-called-islandmagee-storage-limited-gas-storage.
Any decision (and the matter is not under active consideration by the Utility Regulator for decision) to revoke the IMEL licence would be (a) informed by the requirements set out in Article 14 of the Energy (NI) Order 2003 and (b) published (with reasons) in accordance with Article 62(1) of the Energy (NI) Order 2003.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012118%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402071","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402071"}},{"id":"402070","reference":"AQW 12117/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-17","answerBy":"2024-06-04","answered":"2024-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) whether the Islandmagee Gas Storage Project requires a Consent to Construct from the Utility Regulator or any other regulatory body; (ii) whether Islandmagee Energy Limited, or any associated person or company, has applied for a Consent to Construct the gas storage caverns; and (ii) whether a Consent to Construct has been issued to Islandmagee Energy Limited or any associated person or company.","answerText":"Under Article 37 of the Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 (‘the Gas Order’), any person who executes works for construction of a gas storage facility requires a consent from the Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation (‘the Utility Regulator’). The Islandmagee Gas Storage Project requires this consent in so far as it meets the definition of “gas storage facility” under Article 3(1) and Article 37(14) of the Gas Order.\n\nAn application by Islandmagee Energy Limited (‘IMEL’) for leave to apply for judicial review of a view expressed by the Utility Regulator - that the gas storage facility IMEL proposes to build at Islandmagee is of a type to which Article 37 applies – has been listed for “rolled-up” hearing before the High Court, Belfast, on 28 June 2024.\n\nNo.\n\nNo.","answerHtml":"Under Article 37 of the Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 (‘the Gas Order’), any person who executes works for construction of a gas storage facility requires a consent from the Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation (‘the Utility Regulator’). The Islandmagee Gas Storage Project requires this consent in so far as it meets the definition of “gas storage facility” under Article 3(1) and Article 37(14) of the Gas Order.
An application by Islandmagee Energy Limited (‘IMEL’) for leave to apply for judicial review of a view expressed by the Utility Regulator - that the gas storage facility IMEL proposes to build at Islandmagee is of a type to which Article 37 applies – has been listed for “rolled-up” hearing before the High Court, Belfast, on 28 June 2024.
No.
No.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012117%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402070","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402070"}},{"id":"402069","reference":"AQW 12116/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-17","answerBy":"2024-06-04","answered":"2024-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether (i) her Department; and (ii) the Utility Regulator sought external legal advice on the Islandmagee Gas Storage Project in relation to (a) the issue of consent in Article 37 of the Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996; and (b) any other issue.","answerText":"The Department sought legal advice from Departmental Solicitors’ Office in 2022 on the Islandmagee Gas Storage Project in relation to (a) the issue of consent under Article 37 of the Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996. The Department also sought external legal advice between 2011 and 2014 on (b) other issues relating to gas storage facilities.\n\nThe Utility Regulator has sought external legal advice on the Islandmagee Gas Storage Project in relation to (a) and (b).\n\nIn providing this response, no waiver of legal privilege is intended by the Department or the Utility Regulator.","answerHtml":"The Department sought legal advice from Departmental Solicitors’ Office in 2022 on the Islandmagee Gas Storage Project in relation to (a) the issue of consent under Article 37 of the Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996. The Department also sought external legal advice between 2011 and 2014 on (b) other issues relating to gas storage facilities.
The Utility Regulator has sought external legal advice on the Islandmagee Gas Storage Project in relation to (a) and (b).
In providing this response, no waiver of legal privilege is intended by the Department or the Utility Regulator.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012116%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402069","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402069"}},{"id":"402068","reference":"AQW 12115/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-17","answerBy":"2024-06-04","answered":"2024-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether Ritlecitinib will be made available in Northern Ireland for the treatment of severe alopecia areata in people aged 12 and over, given it is available to patients in England, Scotland and Wales.","answerText":"My Department has a formal link with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) under which NICE Technology Appraisals are reviewed locally for their legal and policy applicability here, and where found to be applicable, they are endorsed for implementation within Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations. In practice, this means that treatments that have been recommended by NICE for routine use in the NHS in England are also available in Northern Ireland.\n\nRitlecitinib (Litfulo®) for the treatment of severe alopecia areata in people 12 years and over, was endorsed by my Department in April 2024 and is available to eligible patients in Northern Ireland in line with the current NICE guidelines (TA958), where infrastructure is in place and the service has capacity.","answerHtml":"My Department has a formal link with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) under which NICE Technology Appraisals are reviewed locally for their legal and policy applicability here, and where found to be applicable, they are endorsed for implementation within Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations. In practice, this means that treatments that have been recommended by NICE for routine use in the NHS in England are also available in Northern Ireland.
Ritlecitinib (Litfulo®) for the treatment of severe alopecia areata in people 12 years and over, was endorsed by my Department in April 2024 and is available to eligible patients in Northern Ireland in line with the current NICE guidelines (TA958), where infrastructure is in place and the service has capacity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012115%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402068","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402068"}},{"id":"401484","reference":"AQW 11874/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-14","answerBy":"2024-05-17","answered":"2024-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 7479/22-27, to detail (i) the contingency plans that are in place; (ii) how they will be activated; and (iii) when they will be activated.","answerText":"As referenced in AQW 7479/22-27, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) lead on the maintenance of medicine supply chains to the UK, and there are national and locally tried and tested measures that can be implemented to ensure patients have access to medicines during periods of disruption.\n\nDue to manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medicines, marketing authorisation holders have notified DHSC of UK wide and global disruptions of their ADHD products. Consequently, several national and local measures have been implemented during this period of disruption.\n\nFollowing notification of supply issues to DHSC, a management plan was agreed by the UK-wide Medicines Shortage Response Group (MRSG) in line with agreed shortage protocols. MSRG is a multi-disciplinary group, including representatives from my Department, that meets fortnightly to discuss shortages that are likely to have a higher risk impact on patients and / or the overall health service. Concerns regarding the supply of ADHD medicines were brought to MSRG in September 2023, and subsequent updates have been provided to the group in relation to the ongoing supply disruptions. MSRG has agreed the UK wide management measures including the communication plans detailed below to healthcare professionals which have been published in Northern Ireland (NI).\n\nInformation provided at MSRG is shared at a local level through the NI Medicines Shortage Advisory Group (NIMSAG). NIMSAG is chaired by my Departmental officials and includes relevant representatives from across Primary and Secondary Care organisations. This group has led and co-ordinated actions required locally to implement agreed UK-wide mitigations.\n\nIn line with the communication plans agreed at MSRG and NIMSAG, a National Patient Safety Alert was initially issued by my Department on 28 September 2023, providing healthcare professionals with the required actions to take during the period of disruption to the various strengths and preparations of these medicines-\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-hss-md-48-23.pdf.\n\nWhile the supply of some ADHD medicines has now been resolved, some strengths and preparations are continuing to experience ongoing supply disruptions. As a consequence, several Medicines Supply Notifications have been issued, and these have provided healthcare professionals with updated guidance on the actions to take regarding the various strengths and preparations that continue to be affected by these global disruptions. Both the National Patient Safety Alert and the Medicines Supply Notifications are reflective of messaging agreed by the UK administrations. If the supply situation changes, there may be further discussions at MSRG and NIMSAG and agreed updated communications may be issued by my Department to healthcare professionals.\n\nAs detailed in AQW 11792/22-27, healthcare professionals are also encouraged to use the Specialist Pharmacy Service (SPS) medicines supply tool to provide the most up-to-date information on medicine supply disruptions, which includes affected ADHD medicines. Additionally, SPS has published a dedicated webpage for prescribers to assist them when prescribing ADHD products for their patients- https://www.sps.nhs.uk/articles/prescribing-available-medicines-to-treat-adhd/. These resources are updated regularly by DHSC based on the information they receive from the marketing authorisation holders of these products.\n\nThe Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has also permitted the importation of unlicensed stock into the UK by specialist importers to meet patients’ clinical needs. Information on what preparations and strengths of unlicensed/ imported stock are available, where to access this stock and possible lead times, can be found in the published guidance and/ or on SPS medicines supply tool.\n\nADHD products affected by this global supply disruption were added to the UK’s export and hoarding ban list on 10 October 2023. This list prevents wholesalers from exporting or hoarding medicines listed, helping to ensure supplies in the UK can be made available to patients. As seen in the link below, ADHD medicines currently remain on this list. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/663b774a74933dccbbb6c3ea/restricted-medicine-list-8-may-2024.csv/preview.\n\nAdditionally, in terms of an additional local measure, Intuniv® (guanfacine) 4mg modified release tablets were added to the NI MHRA Authorised Route (NIMAR) list on 28 March 2024, which permitted the movement of Great Britain (GB) authorised stock into NI to meet patients’ clinical needs. This product was subsequently removed from the NIMAR list on 10 May 2024 following improvements in the availability of NI compliant stock. It is important to note that until Windsor Framework arrangements are implemented from 1 January 2025, NIMAR can be used when authorised stock is available in GB and there is no compliant authorised stock available in NI to meet patients’ clinical needs. If required, my Department will help to identify and assess any products that may require addition to the NIMAR list and work with DHSC to ensure patients’ clinical needs in NI are met.\n\nThese are the measures that are in place or have been in place since my Department became aware of supply disruptions to ADHD medicines in September 2023. Healthcare professionals should follow the guidance that has been issued as they provide them with actions to take to ensure patients can have access to ADHD treatments. Additional measures can be introduced if required, such as further guidance and advice to healthcare professionals, Serious Shortage Protocols or additions to the NIMAR list.","answerHtml":"As referenced in AQW 7479/22-27, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) lead on the maintenance of medicine supply chains to the UK, and there are national and locally tried and tested measures that can be implemented to ensure patients have access to medicines during periods of disruption.
Due to manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medicines, marketing authorisation holders have notified DHSC of UK wide and global disruptions of their ADHD products. Consequently, several national and local measures have been implemented during this period of disruption.
Following notification of supply issues to DHSC, a management plan was agreed by the UK-wide Medicines Shortage Response Group (MRSG) in line with agreed shortage protocols. MSRG is a multi-disciplinary group, including representatives from my Department, that meets fortnightly to discuss shortages that are likely to have a higher risk impact on patients and / or the overall health service. Concerns regarding the supply of ADHD medicines were brought to MSRG in September 2023, and subsequent updates have been provided to the group in relation to the ongoing supply disruptions. MSRG has agreed the UK wide management measures including the communication plans detailed below to healthcare professionals which have been published in Northern Ireland (NI).
Information provided at MSRG is shared at a local level through the NI Medicines Shortage Advisory Group (NIMSAG). NIMSAG is chaired by my Departmental officials and includes relevant representatives from across Primary and Secondary Care organisations. This group has led and co-ordinated actions required locally to implement agreed UK-wide mitigations.
In line with the communication plans agreed at MSRG and NIMSAG, a National Patient Safety Alert was initially issued by my Department on 28 September 2023, providing healthcare professionals with the required actions to take during the period of disruption to the various strengths and preparations of these medicines-
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-hss-md-48-23.pdf.
While the supply of some ADHD medicines has now been resolved, some strengths and preparations are continuing to experience ongoing supply disruptions. As a consequence, several Medicines Supply Notifications have been issued, and these have provided healthcare professionals with updated guidance on the actions to take regarding the various strengths and preparations that continue to be affected by these global disruptions. Both the National Patient Safety Alert and the Medicines Supply Notifications are reflective of messaging agreed by the UK administrations. If the supply situation changes, there may be further discussions at MSRG and NIMSAG and agreed updated communications may be issued by my Department to healthcare professionals.
As detailed in AQW 11792/22-27, healthcare professionals are also encouraged to use the Specialist Pharmacy Service (SPS) medicines supply tool to provide the most up-to-date information on medicine supply disruptions, which includes affected ADHD medicines. Additionally, SPS has published a dedicated webpage for prescribers to assist them when prescribing ADHD products for their patients- https://www.sps.nhs.uk/articles/prescribing-available-medicines-to-treat-adhd/. These resources are updated regularly by DHSC based on the information they receive from the marketing authorisation holders of these products.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has also permitted the importation of unlicensed stock into the UK by specialist importers to meet patients’ clinical needs. Information on what preparations and strengths of unlicensed/ imported stock are available, where to access this stock and possible lead times, can be found in the published guidance and/ or on SPS medicines supply tool.
ADHD products affected by this global supply disruption were added to the UK’s export and hoarding ban list on 10 October 2023. This list prevents wholesalers from exporting or hoarding medicines listed, helping to ensure supplies in the UK can be made available to patients. As seen in the link below, ADHD medicines currently remain on this list. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/663b774a74933dccbbb6c3ea/restricted-medicine-list-8-may-2024.csv/preview.
Additionally, in terms of an additional local measure, Intuniv® (guanfacine) 4mg modified release tablets were added to the NI MHRA Authorised Route (NIMAR) list on 28 March 2024, which permitted the movement of Great Britain (GB) authorised stock into NI to meet patients’ clinical needs. This product was subsequently removed from the NIMAR list on 10 May 2024 following improvements in the availability of NI compliant stock. It is important to note that until Windsor Framework arrangements are implemented from 1 January 2025, NIMAR can be used when authorised stock is available in GB and there is no compliant authorised stock available in NI to meet patients’ clinical needs. If required, my Department will help to identify and assess any products that may require addition to the NIMAR list and work with DHSC to ensure patients’ clinical needs in NI are met.
These are the measures that are in place or have been in place since my Department became aware of supply disruptions to ADHD medicines in September 2023. Healthcare professionals should follow the guidance that has been issued as they provide them with actions to take to ensure patients can have access to ADHD treatments. Additional measures can be introduced if required, such as further guidance and advice to healthcare professionals, Serious Shortage Protocols or additions to the NIMAR list.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011874%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401484","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401484"}},{"id":"401306","reference":"AQW 11792/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-13","answerBy":"2024-05-16","answered":"2024-05-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the action his Department is taking to ensure the continued supply of methylphenidate to people with ADHD.","answerText":"While supply disruptions of some attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatments have now been resolved, there continues to be some ongoing disruptions across the UK affecting various preparations and strengths of methylphenidate, with anticipated resupply dates for those products affected to resolve between May and September 2024.\n\nAs stated in AQW 7479/22-27, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), who leads on the maintenance of medicine supply chains to the UK, works closely with the pharmaceutical industry, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the devolved administrations, including my Department and relevant stakeholders to put in place mitigation measures when any disruptions arise.\n\nGuidance, which has been agreed by UK administrations, was issued by my Department to healthcare professionals providing them with actions to take during this period of supply disruption to ensure patients continue to have access to treatments.\n\nA list of currently available and unavailable ADHD products has been published to assist healthcare professionals prescribing these medications on the Specialist Pharmacy Service’s (SPS) website-\n\nhttps://www.sps.nhs.uk/articles/prescribing-available-medicines-to-treat-adhd/. Healthcare professionals can also register with SPS to access SPS medicine supply tool for information on shortages and resupply dates of affected products. These resources are updated regularly by DHSC, and my Department has encouraged healthcare professionals to use these resources.\n\nIf a patient has insufficient supplies to last until the anticipated re-supply date and is unable to source their prescribed strength and/ or preparation of methylphenidate, then the patient should contact their prescriber who can provide them with appropriate advice on their management options.","answerHtml":"While supply disruptions of some attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatments have now been resolved, there continues to be some ongoing disruptions across the UK affecting various preparations and strengths of methylphenidate, with anticipated resupply dates for those products affected to resolve between May and September 2024.
As stated in AQW 7479/22-27, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), who leads on the maintenance of medicine supply chains to the UK, works closely with the pharmaceutical industry, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the devolved administrations, including my Department and relevant stakeholders to put in place mitigation measures when any disruptions arise.
Guidance, which has been agreed by UK administrations, was issued by my Department to healthcare professionals providing them with actions to take during this period of supply disruption to ensure patients continue to have access to treatments.
A list of currently available and unavailable ADHD products has been published to assist healthcare professionals prescribing these medications on the Specialist Pharmacy Service’s (SPS) website-
https://www.sps.nhs.uk/articles/prescribing-available-medicines-to-treat-adhd/. Healthcare professionals can also register with SPS to access SPS medicine supply tool for information on shortages and resupply dates of affected products. These resources are updated regularly by DHSC, and my Department has encouraged healthcare professionals to use these resources.
If a patient has insufficient supplies to last until the anticipated re-supply date and is unable to source their prescribed strength and/ or preparation of methylphenidate, then the patient should contact their prescriber who can provide them with appropriate advice on their management options.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011792%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401306","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401306"}},{"id":"400648","reference":"AQW 11523/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-08","answerBy":"2024-05-16","answered":"2024-05-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 10174/22-27, what action his Department is taking to reduce the £18 million annual cost for wasted medicines.","answerText":"I would like to assure the member that significant work is being taken forward by my Department to reduce the volume and cost of medicines wastage.\n\nThe Department is currently working closely with stakeholders and health service staff including GPs and Community Pharmacists to develop a new ‘Valuing Medicines Policy’ to support the cost effective and sustainable use of medicines. A focus of this work is on how medicines wastage can be reduced.\n\nRecent emphasis, which can lead to reduced waste, has been on de-prescribing which means for individual patients, some prescriptions for medicines could be stopped, changed or the amount reduced if it has been assessed that the medicine is either no longer needed, is ineffective, inappropriate or unsafe for that patient. These changes will only be made after an assessment of the patient by their healthcare professional, and where it is in their best interests to deprescribe.\n\nSPPG has been delivering a successful social media campaign to support de-prescribing in a wide range of therapeutic areas, and includes advice on lifestyle and other symptom specific interventions to allow patients to better manage their conditions. Additionally, patients are being urged to only order the medicines that they need and use and not to ‘stockpile’.","answerHtml":"I would like to assure the member that significant work is being taken forward by my Department to reduce the volume and cost of medicines wastage.
The Department is currently working closely with stakeholders and health service staff including GPs and Community Pharmacists to develop a new ‘Valuing Medicines Policy’ to support the cost effective and sustainable use of medicines. A focus of this work is on how medicines wastage can be reduced.
Recent emphasis, which can lead to reduced waste, has been on de-prescribing which means for individual patients, some prescriptions for medicines could be stopped, changed or the amount reduced if it has been assessed that the medicine is either no longer needed, is ineffective, inappropriate or unsafe for that patient. These changes will only be made after an assessment of the patient by their healthcare professional, and where it is in their best interests to deprescribe.
SPPG has been delivering a successful social media campaign to support de-prescribing in a wide range of therapeutic areas, and includes advice on lifestyle and other symptom specific interventions to allow patients to better manage their conditions. Additionally, patients are being urged to only order the medicines that they need and use and not to ‘stockpile’.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011523%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400648","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400648"}},{"id":"400647","reference":"AQW 11522/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-08","answerBy":"2024-05-23","answered":"2024-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 10174/22-27, whether any drugs returned to community pharmacies are able to be reused.","answerText":"I would like to advise the member that his question is related to professional standards for pharmacy practice. Medicines returned to pharmacies that have previously been supplied to patients cannot be reused due to patient safety considerations – the public are entitled to expect that medicines supplied from a pharmacy are obtained from a reputable source and are fit for purpose. The quality and efficacy of a medicine is difficult to assess when returned to the pharmacy and so patient safety cannot be assured - there is no guarantee that the medicine has not been inappropriately stored and degraded, with resulting loss of potency.","answerHtml":"I would like to advise the member that his question is related to professional standards for pharmacy practice. Medicines returned to pharmacies that have previously been supplied to patients cannot be reused due to patient safety considerations – the public are entitled to expect that medicines supplied from a pharmacy are obtained from a reputable source and are fit for purpose. The quality and efficacy of a medicine is difficult to assess when returned to the pharmacy and so patient safety cannot be assured - there is no guarantee that the medicine has not been inappropriately stored and degraded, with resulting loss of potency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011522%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400647","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400647"}},{"id":"400646","reference":"AQW 11521/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-08","answerBy":"2024-05-23","answered":"2024-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 10174/22-27, (i) how the estimation of £18 million annual cost for wasted medicines is calculated; (ii) how this compares to the cost of wasted medicines in (a) England; (b) Scotland; and (c) Wales; and (iii) what methods are used for the safe destruction of medicines returned to community pharmacies.","answerText":"The estimate of £18million annual cost for wasted medicines in Northern Ireland was calculated by extrapolation of figures for waste reported for England, in the York Health Economics Report, “Evaluation of the Scale, Causes and Costs of Waste Medicines”. This report concluded that the waste sum represents approximately £1 in every £25 spent on primary care and community pharmaceutical and allied products use. There is currently £450million expenditure on prescribed products in NI.\n\nRegarding the cost of wasted medicines in:\n\nEngland, this was reported as £300million in the report referred to above.\n\nScotland and c. Wales, it would be inappropriate to comment on the cost of medicines waste for Scotland or Wales without having firm evidence to base this upon.\n\nThe Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group manages the contract process to ensure the safe disposal of returned medicines. Clinical waste bins are provided to all community pharmacies and collected on a routine basis by a specialist waste management contractor.","answerHtml":"The estimate of £18million annual cost for wasted medicines in Northern Ireland was calculated by extrapolation of figures for waste reported for England, in the York Health Economics Report, “Evaluation of the Scale, Causes and Costs of Waste Medicines”. This report concluded that the waste sum represents approximately £1 in every £25 spent on primary care and community pharmaceutical and allied products use. There is currently £450million expenditure on prescribed products in NI.
Regarding the cost of wasted medicines in:
England, this was reported as £300million in the report referred to above.
Scotland and c. Wales, it would be inappropriate to comment on the cost of medicines waste for Scotland or Wales without having firm evidence to base this upon.
The Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group manages the contract process to ensure the safe disposal of returned medicines. Clinical waste bins are provided to all community pharmacies and collected on a routine basis by a specialist waste management contractor.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011521%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400646","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400646"}},{"id":"400446","reference":"AQW 11434/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-07","answerBy":"2024-05-10","answered":"2024-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 7480/22-27, what is being done to maintain (i) the adult neuromuscular out-patient care service; and (ii) the continued uninterrupted provision of Risdiplam and the associated required services for eligible patients.","answerText":"My department is aware that the lead adult neuromuscular consultant left his post as at end March 2024.\n\nMy department has engaged with Health & Social Care Trusts and established an interim contingency arrangement to ensure continuity of care for the neuromuscular patient group, whilst a long -term solution is being sought.\n\nThe Health and Social Care Trusts, along with SPPG, will continue to work together to ensure care for those who need it. This includes access to Risdiplam for those patients currently accessing this treatment and the development of a long-term solution in respect of adult neuromuscular services.","answerHtml":"My department is aware that the lead adult neuromuscular consultant left his post as at end March 2024.
My department has engaged with Health & Social Care Trusts and established an interim contingency arrangement to ensure continuity of care for the neuromuscular patient group, whilst a long -term solution is being sought.
The Health and Social Care Trusts, along with SPPG, will continue to work together to ensure care for those who need it. This includes access to Risdiplam for those patients currently accessing this treatment and the development of a long-term solution in respect of adult neuromuscular services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011434%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400446","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400446"}},{"id":"399989","reference":"AQW 11249/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-02","answerBy":"2024-05-20","answered":"2024-05-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will consider undertaking a review of the impact of indoor air quality in childcare and school settings on children’s health.","answerText":"Air quality is the lead responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and we continue to work closely with colleagues in relation to health outcomes.\n\nThe Executive’s overarching strategic framework for Public Health, Making Life Better (MLB), recognises that health and wellbeing is influenced by many factors, including the wider physical environment. MLB includes a commitment to protect and promote good health and wellbeing through working collaboratively to improve air quality to achieve objectives and targets established to protect health.\n\nA review of the impact of indoor air quality in childcare and school settings is not under current consideration by my Department.","answerHtml":"Air quality is the lead responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and we continue to work closely with colleagues in relation to health outcomes.
The Executive’s overarching strategic framework for Public Health, Making Life Better (MLB), recognises that health and wellbeing is influenced by many factors, including the wider physical environment. MLB includes a commitment to protect and promote good health and wellbeing through working collaboratively to improve air quality to achieve objectives and targets established to protect health.
A review of the impact of indoor air quality in childcare and school settings is not under current consideration by my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011249%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399989","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399989"}},{"id":"399988","reference":"AQW 11248/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-02","answerBy":"2024-05-20","answered":"2024-05-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the impact of indoor air quality on children’s health.","answerText":"Air Quality, both indoor and outdoor, has a direct impact on health and wellbeing and therefore improving air quality can improve health and protect people across Northern Ireland from ill health. Air quality is the lead responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and we continue to work closely with colleagues in relation to this issue.\n\nThe Executive’s overarching strategic framework for Public Health, Making Life Better (MLB), recognises that health and wellbeing is influenced by many factors, including the wider physical environment. MLB includes a commitment to protect and promote good health and wellbeing through working collaboratively to improve air quality to achieve objectives and targets established to protect health.","answerHtml":"Air Quality, both indoor and outdoor, has a direct impact on health and wellbeing and therefore improving air quality can improve health and protect people across Northern Ireland from ill health. Air quality is the lead responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and we continue to work closely with colleagues in relation to this issue.
The Executive’s overarching strategic framework for Public Health, Making Life Better (MLB), recognises that health and wellbeing is influenced by many factors, including the wider physical environment. MLB includes a commitment to protect and promote good health and wellbeing through working collaboratively to improve air quality to achieve objectives and targets established to protect health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011248%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399988","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399988"}},{"id":"402502","reference":"AQO 403/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-02","answerBy":"2024-05-13","answered":"2024-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether they will consult with the Equality Commission to amend equality legislation to ensure it takes account of any amendments to United Nations Conventions which have come into force since the enactment of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.","answerText":"Ensuring compliance with international treaties is a responsibility for all departments.\n\nTEO has responsibility for the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.\n\nEngagement with ECNI is standard practice within our Department, particularly when updating the equality legislation we are responsible for. We were pleased to receive correspondence from the Chief Commissioner recently noting officials’ continued close engagement on the current review of the Race Relations Order.","answerHtml":"Ensuring compliance with international treaties is a responsibility for all departments.
TEO has responsibility for the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
Engagement with ECNI is standard practice within our Department, particularly when updating the equality legislation we are responsible for. We were pleased to receive correspondence from the Chief Commissioner recently noting officials’ continued close engagement on the current review of the Race Relations Order.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20403%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402502","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402502"}},{"id":"397600","reference":"AQW 10175/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-16","answerBy":"2024-05-01","answered":"2024-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the continued roll-out of Encompass will restrict the data available from Health and Social Care Trusts who take up the programme.","answerText":"Tools provided by encompass will provide Trusts with more detailed real-time data. The encompass programme is working with each Trust as they implement encompass to actively monitor and validate data against baselines supplied and confirmed by each individual trust. It is important that accurate information is available for evidence-based decision making and provision of official statistics.\n\nThe work currently undertaken in the South Eastern Trust will support other trusts in faster validation processes.","answerHtml":"Tools provided by encompass will provide Trusts with more detailed real-time data. The encompass programme is working with each Trust as they implement encompass to actively monitor and validate data against baselines supplied and confirmed by each individual trust. It is important that accurate information is available for evidence-based decision making and provision of official statistics.
The work currently undertaken in the South Eastern Trust will support other trusts in faster validation processes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010175%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397600","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397600"}},{"id":"397599","reference":"AQW 10174/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-16","answerBy":"2024-05-01","answered":"2024-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the value of drugs returned to pharmacies to be destroyed in (i) 2020-21; (ii) 2021-22; and (iii) 2022-23.","answerText":"Medicines that patients return to community pharmacies in Northern Ireland are sent for safe destruction in sealed containers and, as such, it is not possible to definitively assess the value of the medicines inside. However, it has been estimated that medicines wasted in Northern Ireland are valued at £18 million annually.\n\nDespite being unable to provide you with information about the value of medicines returned and destroyed I am able, however, provide the following information about the cost for the safe destruction of medicines returned to community pharmacies in Northern Ireland:\n\nYear\tCost of destruction\n2020-21\t£426,790.82\n2021-22\t£529,468.18\n2022-23\t£625,436.14","answerHtml":"Medicines that patients return to community pharmacies in Northern Ireland are sent for safe destruction in sealed containers and, as such, it is not possible to definitively assess the value of the medicines inside. However, it has been estimated that medicines wasted in Northern Ireland are valued at £18 million annually.
Despite being unable to provide you with information about the value of medicines returned and destroyed I am able, however, provide the following information about the cost for the safe destruction of medicines returned to community pharmacies in Northern Ireland:
| Year | Cost of destruction |
| 2020-21 | £426,790.82 |
| 2021-22 | £529,468.18 |
| 2022-23 | £625,436.14 |
| Fixed Penalty Notices issued by Council Area 2012-2024 | |||||||||||||
| Council | 2012 - 2013 | 2013 - 2014 | 2014 - 2015 | 2015 - 2016 | 2016 - 2017 | 2017 - 2018 | 2018 - 2019 | 2019 - 2020 | 2020 - 2021 | 2021 - 2022 | 2022 - 2023 | 2023 - 2024 | |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | - | - | No records found | No visits made | No visits made | Data not yet available | |||||||
| Ards and North Down | - | - | 3 | 1 | 5 | 6 | 4 | ||||||
| Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon | - | - | 2 | 2 | |||||||||
| Belfast City | 1 | - | 11 | 3 | 12 | 18 | 21 | ||||||
| Causeway Coast and Glens | - | - | |||||||||||
| Derry City and Strabane | - | - | 2 | ||||||||||
| Fermanagh and Omagh | - | - | 2 | ||||||||||
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | - | - | |||||||||||
| Mid and East Antrim | - | - | 1 | 3 | |||||||||
| Mid Ulster | - | - | 1 | ||||||||||
| Newry, Mourne and Down | - | - | 1 | 1 | 11 | ||||||||
| Total | 1 | - | 3 | 14 | 11 | - | 18 | 36 | - | - | 28 | ||
| NOTE: In April 2015 the 26 District Council Areas were reduced to 11 Local Government Districts as part of local government reform. Where figures are indicated prior to 2015-2016, the relevant District Council Area is identified in the footnote. |
Since the provisions of the Sunbeds Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 came into effect in 2012, the number of fixed penalty notices issued each year across the district councils in Northern Ireland were as follows
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209876%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396982","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396982"}},{"id":"396981","reference":"AQW 9875/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-11","answerBy":"2024-04-26","answered":"2024-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, given the rise in melanoma cases, whether he has given consideration to banning the use of sunbeds.","answerText":"I acknowledge the concerns about the role sunbeds play in relation to the development of skin cancer and I am aware of proposals put forward in respect of a ban. The Department will give detailed consideration to these proposals when time and capacity permit.","answerHtml":"I acknowledge the concerns about the role sunbeds play in relation to the development of skin cancer and I am aware of proposals put forward in respect of a ban. The Department will give detailed consideration to these proposals when time and capacity permit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209875%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396981","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396981"}},{"id":"399315","reference":"AQO 335/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-11","answerBy":"2024-04-23","answered":"2024-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will undertake a benchmarking exercise of the pay and working conditions of staff working in the homelessness sector, to compare with the UK and Ireland.","answerText":"The pay and conditions of employees working in the homelessness sector are the responsibility of the employer.","answerHtml":"The pay and conditions of employees working in the homelessness sector are the responsibility of the employer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20335%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399315","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399315"}},{"id":"397074","reference":"AQO 298/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-11","answerBy":"2024-04-22","answered":"2024-04-22","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the introduction of Charlotte’s Law.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"It remains my intention to include legislative provision for Charlotte's law as part of a sentencing Bill, which I hope to introduce next year. Charlotte's law is intended to create measures to encourage murderers to reveal the location of their victims' remains in so-called no-body cases. That is being taken forward in light of a campaign that has been spearheaded by Charlotte Murray's family and supported by the family of Lisa Dorrian. Charlotte went missing in 2012. In 2019, her former partner was convicted of her murder. He remains the only person convicted in this jurisdiction to date where the victim's body has not been found. The key elements of Charlotte's law will be a significant increase in the murderer's life sentence tariff to reflect their ongoing failure to disclose critical information, coupled with the opportunity for a reduction in tariff should a post-sentence disclosure be made. Similar to Helen's law in England and Wales, it will also require the parole commissioners to take the failure to disclose into account when considering the prisoner's suitability for release on licence at the parole stage. Officials in my Department have continued to develop the detail of the proposal, working closely with the affected families and other stakeholders during the absence of the Assembly and since the return of the Executive. The findings of the public consultation, along with a way forward report, will be published over the coming months once that development work has finished. A number of the administrative measures that I announced in November 2020 have already been agreed with the relevant stakeholders."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for that answer. She will be aware of attacks on healthcare workers. Will she clarify how the Bill might protect front-line healthcare workers from attack?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"The sentencing Bill that I intend to bring forward will also look at creating an aggravating factor for attacks on healthcare workers. I referenced that in the debate earlier, and I will elaborate further on some of the other measures, including those around car incidents and how they will be dealt with in the sentencing Bill. If the Member is still around after Question Time, he will get a full response to those queries."},{"speaker":"Mr Brett","text":"I thank the Minister for her update. Will she commit to introducing Harper's law here in Northern Ireland?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"The issue of Harper's law is under consideration. It has not been agreed by the Department, but we are looking at the potential of doing something similar to what has been proposed elsewhere. Were we to decide to go down that route, we would have to look at how quickly we were able to develop proposals and how those would be applied in conjunction with the other regulations and laws that we have in place."},{"speaker":"Mr Beattie","text":"I welcome the information that you have given, Minister, in regard to Charlotte's law. Will the Minister also commit to looking, as part of the sentencing Bill, at the sentence reduction model for those who wait until the very last moment to admit guilt?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"If people were made aware of the degree to which the discounting of sentences, as it is rather casually referred to, takes place, it would come as a shock to most. There are good reasons why people get a reduction in sentencing if they make a guilty plea. However, it should be the case — it certainly will be the case with Charlotte's law — that the earlier that that disclosure is made, the more credit that an individual will be given for making it. The later that they leave it, the less credit will be given. It is important that, if we are going to maintain that continuity, that applies across the board, but, obviously, individual sentences are a matter for the judiciary and are not something on which I can interfere or comment. However, I am aware of the concern that is caused when, for example, somebody goes through a lengthy period awaiting trial, often in quite traumatic circumstances, and, on the morning of the trial, the perpetrator makes a guilty plea. In such cases, all that pain and anguish for the individual has been in vain, and people feel that the perpetrator of the crime has, essentially, regained control over the person. That needs careful consideration."},{"speaker":"Mr McGlone","text":"Minister, will you give us an indication as to what your legislative programme is, including some indicative times, please?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"With the indulgence of the Executive and the Assembly, the intention is to introduce a mixed-content modernisation of justice Bill before the summer recess. The Committee would then have just over a year to process that. We hope, when that is concluded, to introduce a sentencing Bill. When that is complete, the third Bill that we hope to introduce is a hate crime and victims Bill, which will include hate crime provisions, some of which were outlined in the Marrinan report, and some of the remaining victims' arrangements that were proposed by Sir John Gillen."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20298%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397074","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-04-22&docID=397732#AQO%20298/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397074"}},{"id":"395202","reference":"AQO 266/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-15","answered":"2024-04-15","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the Welsh 3Ps Policy to support people on waiting lists in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"The reduction of waiting lists is a key priority for me and has been indicated as a key priority for the Executive. My officials are taking forward a range of measures to address it. However, as the Member is aware, it is a complex matter that will take time, effort and, importantly, adequate and recurrent investment. I fully acknowledge the need to have in place measures to help those who are on waiting lists. The elective care framework that I published in 2021 proposed a £700 million investment over five years. Whilst it set out firm and time-bound proposals, unfortunately, as Members know, the subsequent absence of agreed Executive Budgets combined with the political disruption for much of the period since has meant that the implementation of the framework is not what it should be. Nevertheless, some good progress has been made across several areas. The Member is aware that I attended the meeting, which his party colleague sponsored, at which the potential benefits of the Welsh initiative for patients on waiting lists were presented. Following that presentation, I asked my officials for an assessment of the implications, including the potential costs, of adopting a similar process here. I will consider that in the context of advice from officials."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. The Minister will also be aware of the 'Worried and Waiting' report, which was launched in the Building earlier. The report shows that paediatric waiting lists in Northern Ireland have increased by 173% in the past seven years, which is wholly unacceptable. With far too many children and their families waiting for outpatient appointments, what is the Minister doing to communicate with and support people who are on those waiting lists, who often feel isolated and forgotten?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member. Although I was not able to attend the launch of the report today, I met people from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health a fortnight ago and talked through some of the recommendations in the report. I had good engagement with them at that event. A wide range of online well-being support is available to people who are on waiting lists. That exists across primary care, where the multidisciplinary team programme is improving access to early supports and proactively supporting good physical and mental health and social well-being. A new online tracking system that the Member may be aware of, My Waiting Times, was launched on 25 May last year. That allows patients to check average waiting times for first outpatient hospital appointments across different clinical specialties in each health and social care trust area. The new My Waiting Times Northern Ireland website provides detailed information on average assessment and waiting times by specialty and trust. In addition, the website provides links to support for patients' health and well-being while they wait for treatment."},{"speaker":"","text":"It provides information on travelling to appointments, the hospital travel costs scheme and the patient transport service, and it provides advice if treatment is no longer required or if a patient cannot attend their first appointment."},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"The 'Worried and Waiting' report was published today. Has the Minister had time to consider that report, and does he intend to initiate a child health system review to identify the needs aimed at reducing child health inequalities, as called for in the report?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I was able to talk with representatives of the Royal College of Paediatrics on, I think, 4 April and update them on where the child health partnership and the project board are and how we look at bringing children's services in the Department on to an even keel and tackle some of the horrendous waiting lists that have been described. As regards the other recommendations, the royal college is fair in regard to how we tackle health inequalities, especially among our young people, but that is not solely a challenge to my Department, the Department of Health. There is a challenge to every Department and our Executive as a whole: how we improve access to education, those early years structures and supports, access to special educational needs, housing and welfare and all the rest of it. When we look at the approach that is being proposed in the programme, where it looks at a child-centred, whole-child approach, it has to be a whole-Executive approach."},{"speaker":"Mr Chambers","text":"Today's report from the Royal College of Paediatrics has reiterated the awful figures that many of us have known for some time. We are a fortnight into the financial year, and, still with little budgetary clarity on the horizon, can the Minister provide an update on the challenges that his Department and the trusts find themselves facing when trying to tackle the problem of our waiting lists with, effectively, one hand tied behind their back?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"The Member makes a valid point that has been reiterated across the House many times, not just by me but by Executive colleagues. When we talk about waiting lists, the challenge is having a non-recurrent Budget that does not allow us to make the strategic changes that we want to make across health, which needs that long-term, recurrent investment. Look at the waiting list initiatives: the funding that my Department has been given over the past number of years from a single-year Budget makes those larger pieces of transformation that we want to do all the more challenging, but we still push on in looking at how we can develop overnight care, day case procedure units and rapid diagnostic centres while we can do that within the remit of the budget and workforce that I have available."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Toole","text":"Minister, the state of the health service in general, specifically the length of waiting lists, is probably the single biggest example and crystallisation of chaos in public services and the thing that most of the public in Northern Ireland want dealt with most quickly. It has to be at the core of a Programme for Government, but we heard from the First Minister and, indeed, from the deputy First Minister today that there does not seem to be any great hurry in the production of a Programme for Government."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"Question, please, Mr O'Toole."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Toole","text":"Do you believe that it is an urgent priority, and will you push for health to be at the core of an urgently produced Programme for Government?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member. I push all the time that health should be central to everything that we do, not just in a Programme for Government but in a Budget. That was the commitment that was made in the House when this Executive were established. I want to hold my Executive colleagues to that commitment and that promise, not just to me as Health Minister or my Department but to the people of Northern Ireland. The Member is right: it is the most crucial topic that we talk about, and it is affecting every household across Northern Ireland. A Programme for Government will be beneficial, but it has to be funded and costed, and I am sure that we do not disagree on that. However, we are still working with a single-year Budget that does not allow the large-scale transformation pieces. I will still push for funding for my Department, for the health service and for waiting list initiatives."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20266%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395202","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-04-15&docID=396689#AQO%20266/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395202"}},{"id":"394680","reference":"AQW 9132/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-19","answerBy":"2024-03-22","answered":"2024-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will share the results of the consultation on the Re-introduction of Hospital Parking Charges.","answerText":"The Department of Health launched an eight-week consultation on 14 November 2023, seeking views on the re-introduction of hospital parking charges as a fair and appropriate measure to generate additional income for the Health Service.\n\nA summary of consultation responses has been uploaded to the Department of Health website. Home | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"The Department of Health launched an eight-week consultation on 14 November 2023, seeking views on the re-introduction of hospital parking charges as a fair and appropriate measure to generate additional income for the Health Service.
A summary of consultation responses has been uploaded to the Department of Health website. Home | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209132%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394680","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394680"}},{"id":"394421","reference":"AQW 9032/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-15","answerBy":"2024-03-26","answered":"2024-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQO 132/22-27, to detail the criteria used to designate whether the traffic in this area is operating satisfactorily, given the regular traffic congestion on Donaghy’s Lane in particular.","answerText":"The Department’s view that traffic is operating satisfactorily in the Donaghy’s Lane area of Larne is based on inspections, observations, and judgement of the engineering staff. It should also be noted that developers, as part of their planning approvals are required to carry out a number of road improvements at Donaghy’s Lane/Antiville Road and Ballyboley Road. Drawings showing the full details of these works can be found on the planning portal.","answerHtml":"The Department’s view that traffic is operating satisfactorily in the Donaghy’s Lane area of Larne is based on inspections, observations, and judgement of the engineering staff. It should also be noted that developers, as part of their planning approvals are required to carry out a number of road improvements at Donaghy’s Lane/Antiville Road and Ballyboley Road. Drawings showing the full details of these works can be found on the planning portal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209032%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394421","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394421"}},{"id":"394420","reference":"AQW 9031/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-15","answerBy":"2024-04-04","answered":"2024-04-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he plans to provide resources to roll-out fractional exhaled nitric oxide testing across General Practice.","answerText":"Fractional exhaled Nitric Oxide is included as a diagnostic test for asthma in NICE guideline NG80 'Asthma: diagnosis, monitoring and chronic asthma management'.\n\nFunding has been made available to pilot the use of FeNO across Lisburn GP Practices.\n\nThe aim of this pilot is to scope how FeNO testing can be used to increase diagnostic certainty for patients suspected of having asthma alongside other objective tests. In addition, the pilot will evaluate the usefulness of FeNO testing to help guide clinical decisions around non-adherence or underuse of inhaled corticosteroids when managing the condition.","answerHtml":"Fractional exhaled Nitric Oxide is included as a diagnostic test for asthma in NICE guideline NG80 'Asthma: diagnosis, monitoring and chronic asthma management'.
Funding has been made available to pilot the use of FeNO across Lisburn GP Practices.
The aim of this pilot is to scope how FeNO testing can be used to increase diagnostic certainty for patients suspected of having asthma alongside other objective tests. In addition, the pilot will evaluate the usefulness of FeNO testing to help guide clinical decisions around non-adherence or underuse of inhaled corticosteroids when managing the condition.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209031%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394420","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394420"}},{"id":"394419","reference":"AQW 9030/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-15","answerBy":"2024-04-04","answered":"2024-04-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps his Department is taking to increase the use of spirometry equipment across primary care.","answerText":"Spirometry is a key step in managing respiratory disease, ensuring the correct diagnosis and therapeutic/referral interventions. During the COVID19 pandemic provision of spirometry in primary/community settings was reduced.\n\nUnder current UK Infection Prevention Control (IPC) guidance Spirometry is now not considered to be an aerosol generating procedure (AGP) and therefore level 1 PPE should be worn, namely, a fluid resistant surgical mask (rather than high grade Personal Protective Equipment) would constitute sufficient airway protection for the healthcare worker supervising the spirometry procedure.\n\nConsequently, as primary care healthcare workers are not routinely fit tested and provided with high grade PPE (eg FFP3 and Type II Respirators) this has the potential to significantly increase the level of spirometry possible in primary care facilities for patients experiencing respiratory symptoms or those already diagnosed and who require ongoing reviews.\n\nBefore spirometry is performed by Primary Care practices they should ensure that they review the Infection Prevention and Control Measures for Respiratory illnesses guidance. General IPC considerations for clinical areas should be considered and include ensuring good air circulation. Those responsible for providing spirometry are required to have risk assessed the process and ensured that all aspects are safe for both staff undertaking and patients attending the testing.\n\nPractices in Northern Ireland also have the opportunity to contract to provide the Northern Ireland Local Enhanced Service (NILES) Chronic Respiratory Conditions. This NILES amongst its aims is to reduce pressure on secondary care and improve the long-term health and well-being of patients suffering from Asthma and COPD. The use of spirometry to diagnose and manage the ongoing care of this cohort of patients will increase as a result.","answerHtml":"Spirometry is a key step in managing respiratory disease, ensuring the correct diagnosis and therapeutic/referral interventions. During the COVID19 pandemic provision of spirometry in primary/community settings was reduced.
Under current UK Infection Prevention Control (IPC) guidance Spirometry is now not considered to be an aerosol generating procedure (AGP) and therefore level 1 PPE should be worn, namely, a fluid resistant surgical mask (rather than high grade Personal Protective Equipment) would constitute sufficient airway protection for the healthcare worker supervising the spirometry procedure.
Consequently, as primary care healthcare workers are not routinely fit tested and provided with high grade PPE (eg FFP3 and Type II Respirators) this has the potential to significantly increase the level of spirometry possible in primary care facilities for patients experiencing respiratory symptoms or those already diagnosed and who require ongoing reviews.
Before spirometry is performed by Primary Care practices they should ensure that they review the Infection Prevention and Control Measures for Respiratory illnesses guidance. General IPC considerations for clinical areas should be considered and include ensuring good air circulation. Those responsible for providing spirometry are required to have risk assessed the process and ensured that all aspects are safe for both staff undertaking and patients attending the testing.
Practices in Northern Ireland also have the opportunity to contract to provide the Northern Ireland Local Enhanced Service (NILES) Chronic Respiratory Conditions. This NILES amongst its aims is to reduce pressure on secondary care and improve the long-term health and well-being of patients suffering from Asthma and COPD. The use of spirometry to diagnose and manage the ongoing care of this cohort of patients will increase as a result.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209030%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394419","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394419"}},{"id":"394418","reference":"AQW 9029/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-15","answerBy":"2024-04-04","answered":"2024-04-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in order to bring Northern Ireland in line with Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland, whether he intends to set a smoke-free target date.","answerText":"The Ten-Year Tobacco Control Strategy for Northern Ireland has an overall aim to create a tobacco-free society. A final review of the current strategy was published online in September 2023 and work to develop a new strategy is in the early stages of development. The final review of the Strategy acknowledged the support for a smoke-free target date, and this will be further considered as the new strategy is developed. It is important that the setting of such ambitious targets includes considered, resourced and realistic plans as to how to achieve the target.\n\nI have recently announced my intention to seek NI Assembly support for inclusion of NI in the UK Government Tobacco and Vapes Bill. The measures set out in that Bill have the potential to make a huge impact on smoking prevalence rates here.","answerHtml":"The Ten-Year Tobacco Control Strategy for Northern Ireland has an overall aim to create a tobacco-free society. A final review of the current strategy was published online in September 2023 and work to develop a new strategy is in the early stages of development. The final review of the Strategy acknowledged the support for a smoke-free target date, and this will be further considered as the new strategy is developed. It is important that the setting of such ambitious targets includes considered, resourced and realistic plans as to how to achieve the target.
I have recently announced my intention to seek NI Assembly support for inclusion of NI in the UK Government Tobacco and Vapes Bill. The measures set out in that Bill have the potential to make a huge impact on smoking prevalence rates here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209029%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394418","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394418"}},{"id":"394150","reference":"AQW 8917/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-03-25","answered":"2024-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the recommendations of the Speech and Language Therapy Workforce Review 2019 – 2029, whether he will commit to ensuring 40 commissioned training places for Speech and Language Therapists will be offered for the September 2024 academic year intake at Ulster University.","answerText":"The commissioning of pre-registration education and training by my Department is reviewed annually, taking into account a range of factors including staffing and vacancy levels, recommendations from workforce reviews, priorities, and affordability. I remain committed to implementing the recommendations of the Speech and Language Therapy Workforce Review 2019 – 2029 which will require increasing the number of undergraduate training places commissioned each year by 12 to reach an annual total of 40.\n\nA budget for Northern Ireland Departments has not yet been set for 2024/25 and accordingly I am unable to make any commitment to expand commissioned places at this time. I will continue to make the case for this essential investment in our future workforce. However, I expect that the 2024/25 budget will be extremely challenging.","answerHtml":"The commissioning of pre-registration education and training by my Department is reviewed annually, taking into account a range of factors including staffing and vacancy levels, recommendations from workforce reviews, priorities, and affordability. I remain committed to implementing the recommendations of the Speech and Language Therapy Workforce Review 2019 – 2029 which will require increasing the number of undergraduate training places commissioned each year by 12 to reach an annual total of 40.
A budget for Northern Ireland Departments has not yet been set for 2024/25 and accordingly I am unable to make any commitment to expand commissioned places at this time. I will continue to make the case for this essential investment in our future workforce. However, I expect that the 2024/25 budget will be extremely challenging.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208917%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394150","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394150"}},{"id":"394149","reference":"AQW 8916/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-03-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his departmental commitment to ensure the best care for all those living with a respiratory condition.","answerText":"I am pleased to provide assurance regarding the Department of Health commitment to improving respiratory care. Work has been ongoing since last year under the joint management of the Strategic Planning and Performance Group and the Public Health Agency to formulate a refreshed work programme for the future. Partners from across patient groups, general practice and community and hospital services have come together to improve care and treatment pathways. Given the breadth of the work programme that affects so many people living in Northern Ireland, the priorities for 2024 are as follows:\n\nPrimary Care respiratory/diagnostics pathways\n\nInterstitial lung disease\n\nPaediatric respiratory disease\n\nAsthma care\n\nInitial meetings of the working groups will take place in April 2024 under the chairmanship of leading clinicians and with the support of my officials in the SPPG and PHA. The work programme has been discussed at the All Party Group for Lung Health and it is the intention that the lead commissioner from the SPPG will regularly attend this forum and provide updates to members.","answerHtml":"I am pleased to provide assurance regarding the Department of Health commitment to improving respiratory care. Work has been ongoing since last year under the joint management of the Strategic Planning and Performance Group and the Public Health Agency to formulate a refreshed work programme for the future. Partners from across patient groups, general practice and community and hospital services have come together to improve care and treatment pathways. Given the breadth of the work programme that affects so many people living in Northern Ireland, the priorities for 2024 are as follows:
Primary Care respiratory/diagnostics pathways
Interstitial lung disease
Paediatric respiratory disease
Asthma care
Initial meetings of the working groups will take place in April 2024 under the chairmanship of leading clinicians and with the support of my officials in the SPPG and PHA. The work programme has been discussed at the All Party Group for Lung Health and it is the intention that the lead commissioner from the SPPG will regularly attend this forum and provide updates to members.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208916%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394149","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394149"}},{"id":"394148","reference":"AQW 8915/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-03-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether respiratory health will be prioritised in the Programme for Government.","answerText":"I will continue to work closely with my Executive colleagues and officials across Departments to ensure key areas of health are prioritised within the new Programme for Government. This work is currently in progress and ultimately the Programme for Government will be agreed by the Executive collectively.","answerHtml":"I will continue to work closely with my Executive colleagues and officials across Departments to ensure key areas of health are prioritised within the new Programme for Government. This work is currently in progress and ultimately the Programme for Government will be agreed by the Executive collectively.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208915%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394148","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394148"}},{"id":"394147","reference":"AQW 8914/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-03-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the right for rehabilitation for everyone with a lung condition.","answerText":"Rehabilitation for people living with lung conditions in Northern Ireland comes in the form of pulmonary rehabilitation services that are hosted and run by respiratory nursing and therapy teams in each of the local Health and Social Care Trust areas. After assessment for suitability, patients will be referred to a programme comprising lifestyle, dietary and physical activity advice (and often exercise regimes) to support them to better manage their condition. These programmes often last a number of weeks, are based in a community outpatient setting and are additional to any consultant-led and GP-led respiratory service that the patient receives.","answerHtml":"Rehabilitation for people living with lung conditions in Northern Ireland comes in the form of pulmonary rehabilitation services that are hosted and run by respiratory nursing and therapy teams in each of the local Health and Social Care Trust areas. After assessment for suitability, patients will be referred to a programme comprising lifestyle, dietary and physical activity advice (and often exercise regimes) to support them to better manage their condition. These programmes often last a number of weeks, are based in a community outpatient setting and are additional to any consultant-led and GP-led respiratory service that the patient receives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208914%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394147","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394147"}},{"id":"394146","reference":"AQW 8913/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-03-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail plans for the introduction of regional lung screening programmes.","answerText":"In line with the Cancer Strategy for Northern Ireland (2022-32), I accepted the recommendation from the UK National Screening Committee to introduce a targeted lung cancer screening programme for those at higher risk of disease.\n\nWe are at the early stages of scoping out what the requirements of this new programme for Northern Ireland will be. We will be working with colleagues across Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK to establish the resources required and the likely timeline.","answerHtml":"In line with the Cancer Strategy for Northern Ireland (2022-32), I accepted the recommendation from the UK National Screening Committee to introduce a targeted lung cancer screening programme for those at higher risk of disease.
We are at the early stages of scoping out what the requirements of this new programme for Northern Ireland will be. We will be working with colleagues across Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK to establish the resources required and the likely timeline.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208913%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394146","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394146"}},{"id":"394266","reference":"AQO 236/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-09","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for an update on discussions with HM Treasury on the status of funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund beyond March 2025.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"Unfortunately, the British Government’s position on whether they will continue funding the Shared Prosperity Fund beyond March 2025 is not yet clear. I fully understand the anxiety of those in the voluntary and community sector who rely on this funding to support the vital work that they do. My officials have been pressing their counterparts in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) and the Treasury for clarity on this. I intend to raise this matter at ministerial level in the time ahead. I will also be stressing that DLUHC needs to learn the lessons from the delayed implementation of the Shared Prosperity Fund here when it was first established."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for her answer. There have been concerns about the way that the funding has been provided. For example, the money is released every three months in arrears, which creates instability for many organisations. What assurance can the Minister give that, beyond March 2025, the system in place will be more efficient and effective?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"A number of lessons need to be learned from the roll-out of the Shared Prosperity Fund. The Member will be aware that we have also made the case in relation to the British Government delivering the fund centrally, rather than it coming through the Executive, and we are not able to align the funding that is delivered to our priorities in the Programme for Government and the things that the Executive want to achieve more broadly. All those lessons need to be learned, and we will make the case to the Treasury on how we move forward beyond March 2025."},{"speaker":"Mr Delargy","text":"Does the Minister agree that the Shared Prosperity Fund would be much more effective in addressing need if it were delivered directly by Departments here?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"Yes is the short answer. The previous Finance Minister and the Executive argued that the replacement for EU funds should be delivered by local Departments and not from Whitehall. That would have enabled us to ensure that the funding was aligned with our priorities. Unfortunately, the British Government did not agree with that approach. However, my Department has worked closely with the Department for the Economy to secure funding from the Shared Prosperity Fund through commissions from DLUHC to DFE and its arm's-length bodies. Funding worth £17 million has been secured via that route. The commissioning approach has allowed funding to flow through established structures for the delivery of local interventions. Whilst not perfect, it is a welcome development and one that I hope can be built on for future funding."},{"speaker":"Ms McLaughlin","text":"The Women's Centre Derry and Derry Youth and Community Workshop have been victims of that flawed funding. Minister, what steps are you taking to ensure that we can undo the damage that has been done in our communities?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"The Member will be aware that the Shared Prosperity Fund, as a replacement for EU funding, fell far short of what was delivered by EU funding through ESF and ERDF. The Shared Prosperity Fund in totality was £127 million over three years. The equivalent EU structural funds averaged £65 million per annum, so there is, obviously, a considerable shortfall. We also lost some funding that was repurposed as part of the financial package. It is important that we make the case for the EU structural funds to be fully restored relative to that amount and beyond it, because there is a seven-year commitment for EU funding, and we have only three years of the Shared Prosperity Fund. We need to continue to collectively make the case to the Treasury that the funding needs to be properly restored."},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"What percentage of the fund comes to Northern Ireland? Specifically, does that match the 3% of the population who reside here?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"We made that case at the time. The Member will be aware that we did better in the drawdown of EU funds compared with, for example, the Barnett consequential that we get. I am not entirely sure what percentage we get, but I will ask officials to write to the Member about that."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20236%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394266","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-04-09&docID=395015#AQO%20236/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394266"}},{"id":"394242","reference":"AQO 212/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-08","answered":"2024-04-08","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether the administrative preparations are complete for the appointment of a Commissioner for Victims and Survivors.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"Ensuring that the needs of victims and survivors continue to be met in the most effective and appropriate manner remains a key priority for the Executive. The role of the commissioner is critical in supporting that work, by ensuring that victims and survivors have a strong and independent voice and contributing to the development of policy so that their longer-term needs are addressed. We are therefore keen that a new commissioner is appointed as soon as possible, and our officials continue to progress the administrative preparations required for the recruitment competition to appoint the new commissioner. The appointment process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments (CPANI), and we estimate that the whole process will take approximately six months."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"The Minister has just answered my supplementary. Thank you, Minister; I appreciate it."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dillon","text":"I thank the First Minister for her responses so far. Will she provide an update on when a new chair and members will be appointed to the board of the Victims and Survivors Service (VSS)?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"The current board's second term ended on 31 March 2024. Along with a board member, officials are considering interim arrangements should the chair position be vacant for a period of time. A competition to fill the vacancies was launched on 15 January and closed to applications on 2 February. Although the VSS is not a regulated body under the CPANI guidelines, the appointment process is being undertaken in the spirit of the code. It is hoped that the new chair and members will be announced very shortly."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20212%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394242","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-04-08&docID=395014#AQO%20212/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394242"}},{"id":"393846","reference":"AQW 8811/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-19","answered":"2024-03-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what consideration he has given to (i) restricting; and (ii) banning the use of solid fuels.","answerText":"Action to restrict and ultimately ban the use of coal and other solid fuels necessitates a comprehensive approach across government, encompassing the transition to cleaner heating alternatives, the implementation of emission standards, and the promotion of awareness regarding the associated health risks.\n\nMy officials are actively collaborating with the Department for Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs Air Quality Team, responsible for developing the regional Clean Air Strategy (CAS). There exists a clear correlation between an effective CAS and the phased-out use of coal and certain other solid fuels. By synchronising our approach, we aim to ensure synergy between initiatives to enhance air quality and the strategic decarbonisation of heating.\n\nThe Executive’s Energy Strategy, \"The Path to Net Zero Energy,\" outlines the policy direction for decarbonising the economy and phasing out fossil fuels, including gas, heating oil, coal, and certain other solid fuels used for heating. An update to progress on the strategy is produced annually and outlines the key strategic priorities and energy policy initiatives which are being developed and delivered with partners across government.","answerHtml":"Action to restrict and ultimately ban the use of coal and other solid fuels necessitates a comprehensive approach across government, encompassing the transition to cleaner heating alternatives, the implementation of emission standards, and the promotion of awareness regarding the associated health risks.
My officials are actively collaborating with the Department for Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs Air Quality Team, responsible for developing the regional Clean Air Strategy (CAS). There exists a clear correlation between an effective CAS and the phased-out use of coal and certain other solid fuels. By synchronising our approach, we aim to ensure synergy between initiatives to enhance air quality and the strategic decarbonisation of heating.
The Executive’s Energy Strategy, "The Path to Net Zero Energy," outlines the policy direction for decarbonising the economy and phasing out fossil fuels, including gas, heating oil, coal, and certain other solid fuels used for heating. An update to progress on the strategy is produced annually and outlines the key strategic priorities and energy policy initiatives which are being developed and delivered with partners across government.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208811%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393846","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393846"}},{"id":"393845","reference":"AQW 8810/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-29","answered":"2024-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what steps he will take to reduce domestic burning in relation to air quality and pollution.","answerText":"The Minister is profoundly aware of the adverse health impacts resulting from the burning of solid fuels, given the release of harmful pollutants into the air. Addressing these public health concerns necessitates a comprehensive approach across government, encompassing the transition to cleaner heating alternatives, the implementation of emission standards, and the promotion of awareness regarding the associated health risks.\n\nMy officials are actively collaborating with the Department for Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs Air Quality Team, responsible for developing the regional Clean Air Strategy (CAS). There exists a clear correlation between an effective CAS and the phased-out use of coal and certain other solid fuels. By synchronising our approach, we aim to ensure synergy between initiatives to enhance air quality and the strategic decarbonisation of residential heating.\n\nThe Executive’s Energy Strategy, \"The Path to Net Zero Energy,\" outlines the policy direction for decarbonising the economy and phasing out fossil fuels, including gas, heating oil, coal, and certain other solid fuels used for heating. An update to progress on the strategy is produced annually and outlines the key strategic priorities and energy policy initiatives which are being developed and delivered with partners across government.\n\nEnergy Strategy - Path to Net Zero Energy - 2023 Action Plan Report (economy-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"The Minister is profoundly aware of the adverse health impacts resulting from the burning of solid fuels, given the release of harmful pollutants into the air. Addressing these public health concerns necessitates a comprehensive approach across government, encompassing the transition to cleaner heating alternatives, the implementation of emission standards, and the promotion of awareness regarding the associated health risks.
My officials are actively collaborating with the Department for Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs Air Quality Team, responsible for developing the regional Clean Air Strategy (CAS). There exists a clear correlation between an effective CAS and the phased-out use of coal and certain other solid fuels. By synchronising our approach, we aim to ensure synergy between initiatives to enhance air quality and the strategic decarbonisation of residential heating.
The Executive’s Energy Strategy, "The Path to Net Zero Energy," outlines the policy direction for decarbonising the economy and phasing out fossil fuels, including gas, heating oil, coal, and certain other solid fuels used for heating. An update to progress on the strategy is produced annually and outlines the key strategic priorities and energy policy initiatives which are being developed and delivered with partners across government.
Energy Strategy - Path to Net Zero Energy - 2023 Action Plan Report (economy-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208810%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393845","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393845"}},{"id":"393844","reference":"AQW 8809/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-29","answered":"2024-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on progress towards introducing an energy bill.","answerText":"Officials in my Department are developing a range of net-zero policies essential to delivery of the Northern Ireland Executive’s Energy Strategy ‘The Path to Net Zero Energy’. That process includes considering whether existing legislation and regulations can facilitate solutions essential to delivery of its objectives.\n\nWe intend to use existing legislation where possible. In those areas where the legal framework needs updated, I will consider whether primary or secondary legislation is most effective.\n\nWhile the Department has plans for a wide-ranging Energy Bill those areas that require urgent primary legislation, to meet decarbonisation targets, may need to move in advance of it.","answerHtml":"Officials in my Department are developing a range of net-zero policies essential to delivery of the Northern Ireland Executive’s Energy Strategy ‘The Path to Net Zero Energy’. That process includes considering whether existing legislation and regulations can facilitate solutions essential to delivery of its objectives.
We intend to use existing legislation where possible. In those areas where the legal framework needs updated, I will consider whether primary or secondary legislation is most effective.
While the Department has plans for a wide-ranging Energy Bill those areas that require urgent primary legislation, to meet decarbonisation targets, may need to move in advance of it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208809%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393844","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393844"}},{"id":"393843","reference":"AQW 8808/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-29","answered":"2024-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what discussions his Department has had with other departments in the last 24 months in relation to progressing the draft Clean Air Strategy.","answerText":"My officials have been engaged in collaborative discussions with the Department for Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Air Quality Team, responsible for developing the regional Clean Air Strategy (CAS) on various occasions during the last 24 months.\n\nDiscussions centred on taking action to restrict and ultimately ban the use of coal and certain other solid fuels for domestic heating. There exists a clear correlation between an effective CAS and the phased-out use of coal and certain other solid fuels, and the issue necessitates a comprehensive approach across government, encompassing the transition to cleaner heating alternatives, the implementation of emission standards, and the promotion of awareness regarding the associated health risks.\n\nThe Executive’s Energy Strategy, \"The Path to Net Zero Energy,\" outlines the policy direction for decarbonising the economy and phasing out fossil fuels, including gas, heating oil, coal, and certain other solid fuels used for heating. An update to progress on the strategy is produced annually and outlines the key strategic priorities and energy policy initiatives which are being developed and delivered with partners across government.\n\nEnergy Strategy - Path to Net Zero Energy - 2023 Action Plan Report (economy-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"My officials have been engaged in collaborative discussions with the Department for Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Air Quality Team, responsible for developing the regional Clean Air Strategy (CAS) on various occasions during the last 24 months.
Discussions centred on taking action to restrict and ultimately ban the use of coal and certain other solid fuels for domestic heating. There exists a clear correlation between an effective CAS and the phased-out use of coal and certain other solid fuels, and the issue necessitates a comprehensive approach across government, encompassing the transition to cleaner heating alternatives, the implementation of emission standards, and the promotion of awareness regarding the associated health risks.
The Executive’s Energy Strategy, "The Path to Net Zero Energy," outlines the policy direction for decarbonising the economy and phasing out fossil fuels, including gas, heating oil, coal, and certain other solid fuels used for heating. An update to progress on the strategy is produced annually and outlines the key strategic priorities and energy policy initiatives which are being developed and delivered with partners across government.
Energy Strategy - Path to Net Zero Energy - 2023 Action Plan Report (economy-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208808%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393843","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393843"}},{"id":"393842","reference":"AQW 8807/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-29","answered":"2024-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following comments by the Speaker at the conclusion of Question Time on 12 March 2024, whether he will supply the information requested in AQW 6154/22-27.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I understand that you have already sought and received the information you requested in AQW 6154/22-27 directly from the Chief Executive on the 6 March and 17 April 2024.The Chief Executive advised of the following:\n\n“There are 7,236 people currently in receipt of a Discretionary Housing Payment, with 121 of those in receipt of a Discretionary Housing Payment for more than two years.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I understand that you have already sought and received the information you requested in AQW 6154/22-27 directly from the Chief Executive on the 6 March and 17 April 2024.The Chief Executive advised of the following:
“There are 7,236 people currently in receipt of a Discretionary Housing Payment, with 121 of those in receipt of a Discretionary Housing Payment for more than two years.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208807%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393842","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393842"}},{"id":"393629","reference":"AQW 8712/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-15","answered":"2024-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following meetings of the Respiratory Forum, for an update on progress towards a lung health strategy.","answerText":"Following the disruption caused by the pandemic, in 2023 a short-term working group of representatives from across the HSC, including Trusts, Primary Care and delegates from the three largest charities working in this area met to formulate a preliminary work programme for improvement.\n\nThe Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) and the Public Health Agency continue to lead this work through lead commissioning arrangements. It was agreed to reform the Respiratory Forum, a regional group, to oversee the development and progress of the work programme. The first meeting of the relaunched Respiratory Forum will take place in June/July 2024.\n\nIn order to manage the work programme in a time of constrained resource, it has been decided to split the focus of work into two tranches, with the first commencing in April/May 2024.\n\nWorking groups, co-chaired by clinical leaders across primary and secondary care, will convene to improve care pathways in the following areas in tranche one:\n\n•Respiratory primary care/diagnostic pathways\n\n•Interstitial Lung Disease\n\n•Paediatric respiratory disease\n\n•Asthma\n\nThe second tranche, to be launched in 2025, will focus on the following areas:\n\n•COPD\n\n•Non-invasive ventilation\n\n•Sleep\n\n•Home oxygen/community respiratory services\n\n•Other areas including bronchiectasis, pulmonary rehabilitation and others","answerHtml":"Following the disruption caused by the pandemic, in 2023 a short-term working group of representatives from across the HSC, including Trusts, Primary Care and delegates from the three largest charities working in this area met to formulate a preliminary work programme for improvement.
The Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) and the Public Health Agency continue to lead this work through lead commissioning arrangements. It was agreed to reform the Respiratory Forum, a regional group, to oversee the development and progress of the work programme. The first meeting of the relaunched Respiratory Forum will take place in June/July 2024.
In order to manage the work programme in a time of constrained resource, it has been decided to split the focus of work into two tranches, with the first commencing in April/May 2024.
Working groups, co-chaired by clinical leaders across primary and secondary care, will convene to improve care pathways in the following areas in tranche one:
•Respiratory primary care/diagnostic pathways
•Interstitial Lung Disease
•Paediatric respiratory disease
•Asthma
The second tranche, to be launched in 2025, will focus on the following areas:
•COPD
•Non-invasive ventilation
•Sleep
•Home oxygen/community respiratory services
•Other areas including bronchiectasis, pulmonary rehabilitation and others
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208712%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393629","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393629"}},{"id":"393628","reference":"AQW 8711/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) why the rate of pay for NHS interpreters has not increased since 2006; and (ii) whether his Department will consider increasing the rate of pay in line with the annual Consumer Price Index.","answerText":"Face-to-face spoken language interpreters are independent self-employed contractors who are not employed by the Health and Social Care (HSC) service but are paid for their service through the Business Services Organisation (BSO) at an agreed rate.\n\nHSC Interpreters must be registered with BSO and adhere to the HSC Terms of Engagement. This stipulates an hourly rate of pay as well as a preparation payment.\n\n(i)The Department is aware that pay has not increased for a number of years and the impact this is having on the valuable service that interpreters provide. You will, however, be aware of the significant financial constraints within the wider Health Service and the challenge that poses to increase interpreters’ pay rates.\n\n(ii)There has been a number of correspondences to my office regarding this issue. As a result, I have asked the Strategic Planning and Performance Group to review the hourly rate of pay and the preparation fee for interpreters.\n\nI will endeavour to do the best I can to come to a suitable resolution.","answerHtml":"Face-to-face spoken language interpreters are independent self-employed contractors who are not employed by the Health and Social Care (HSC) service but are paid for their service through the Business Services Organisation (BSO) at an agreed rate.
HSC Interpreters must be registered with BSO and adhere to the HSC Terms of Engagement. This stipulates an hourly rate of pay as well as a preparation payment.
(i)The Department is aware that pay has not increased for a number of years and the impact this is having on the valuable service that interpreters provide. You will, however, be aware of the significant financial constraints within the wider Health Service and the challenge that poses to increase interpreters’ pay rates.
(ii)There has been a number of correspondences to my office regarding this issue. As a result, I have asked the Strategic Planning and Performance Group to review the hourly rate of pay and the preparation fee for interpreters.
I will endeavour to do the best I can to come to a suitable resolution.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208711%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393628","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393628"}},{"id":"393627","reference":"AQW 8710/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) when the current rate for student nurse bursaries was set; (ii) why the rate has not increased since; and (iii) what other supports are available for student nurses at university with childcare commitments.","answerText":"the non-means tested element of the nursing and midwifery bursary, paid to eligible students on pre-registration nursing and midwifery programmes commissioned by my Department, was last updated in the 2012/13 academic year. In September 2022, I announced an increase of 15% in some of the means-tested elements of bursary support – dependant’s allowance and parental living allowance - commencing from the 2022/23 academic year.\n\nthe high overall volumes of applications to these programmes received by the local universities indicates that the current level of bursary support remains effective in attracting sufficient students. This is despite the level of pre-registration nursing and midwifery training commissioned by my Department having been increased to record levels over recent years.\n\nStudents at Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University are also able to access university hardship funds should they meet the necessary criteria. Additional funding for these hardship funds has recently been announced by DfE.","answerHtml":"the non-means tested element of the nursing and midwifery bursary, paid to eligible students on pre-registration nursing and midwifery programmes commissioned by my Department, was last updated in the 2012/13 academic year. In September 2022, I announced an increase of 15% in some of the means-tested elements of bursary support – dependant’s allowance and parental living allowance - commencing from the 2022/23 academic year.
the high overall volumes of applications to these programmes received by the local universities indicates that the current level of bursary support remains effective in attracting sufficient students. This is despite the level of pre-registration nursing and midwifery training commissioned by my Department having been increased to record levels over recent years.
Students at Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University are also able to access university hardship funds should they meet the necessary criteria. Additional funding for these hardship funds has recently been announced by DfE.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208710%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393627","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393627"}},{"id":"393626","reference":"AQW 8709/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when the Northern Ireland Cardiac Network's three-year work plan (i) started; and (ii) is due to be completed.","answerText":"The Cardiac Network’s three-year work plan commenced May 2022. It is due to be completed April 2025. The workplan is kept under regular review to ensure it aligns with emerging issues within cardiac services.","answerHtml":"The Cardiac Network’s three-year work plan commenced May 2022. It is due to be completed April 2025. The workplan is kept under regular review to ensure it aligns with emerging issues within cardiac services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208709%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393626","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393626"}},{"id":"393625","reference":"AQW 8708/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW/7659/22-27, to detail the areas of work in the Northern Ireland Cardiac Network's three-year work plan, including funding assigned to the workplan.","answerText":"The key areas within the Cardiac Network’s three-year work plan which are in progress are outlined below:\n\nHeart Failure and Cardiac Rehabilitation Strategic Leadership Groups have been established to optimise and standardise pathways across Northern Ireland (NI).\n\nNI cardiac catheterisation laboratories capacity and demand modelling, exploring options of alternative and less invasive investigations.\n\nEstablishment of a Cardiac Pacing Task and Finish (T&F) Group to ensure appropriate management of symptomatic patients presenting to hospital with unstable cardiac rhythms.\n\nPlanned review of the Rapid Angina Access Clinic Services to ensure patients meet the specified referral criteria and are assessed at a specialist clinic within the agreed standards.\n\nEstablishment of a Palpitation Pathway Expansion T&F Group to evaluate and develop primary care palpitation pathways in NI.\n\nCommence a regional medical workforce review of Consultants, Specialists and Associate Specialists, with a view of facilitating cross-Trust working.\n\nPlanned review of Clinical Physiologist workforce specific to transthoracic echo.\n\nPlanned review of NI inpatient pre-operative cardiac surgery guidelines to ensure a streamlined access to inpatient cardiac surgery.\n\nAny service developments resulting from these workstreams will be subject to approval and the availability of funding.","answerHtml":"The key areas within the Cardiac Network’s three-year work plan which are in progress are outlined below:
Heart Failure and Cardiac Rehabilitation Strategic Leadership Groups have been established to optimise and standardise pathways across Northern Ireland (NI).
NI cardiac catheterisation laboratories capacity and demand modelling, exploring options of alternative and less invasive investigations.
Establishment of a Cardiac Pacing Task and Finish (T&F) Group to ensure appropriate management of symptomatic patients presenting to hospital with unstable cardiac rhythms.
Planned review of the Rapid Angina Access Clinic Services to ensure patients meet the specified referral criteria and are assessed at a specialist clinic within the agreed standards.
Establishment of a Palpitation Pathway Expansion T&F Group to evaluate and develop primary care palpitation pathways in NI.
Commence a regional medical workforce review of Consultants, Specialists and Associate Specialists, with a view of facilitating cross-Trust working.
Planned review of Clinical Physiologist workforce specific to transthoracic echo.
Planned review of NI inpatient pre-operative cardiac surgery guidelines to ensure a streamlined access to inpatient cardiac surgery.
Any service developments resulting from these workstreams will be subject to approval and the availability of funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208708%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393625","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393625"}},{"id":"391452","reference":"AQO 152/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-29","answerBy":"2024-03-11","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on the implementation of the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"Progress has been made on key requirements of the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, but the absence of a sitting Government for two years has had a real impact on what I can do and what Government can do to implement the obligations set out in the Act. An extensive consultation exercise on public body reporting regulations, which took place last year, proposed 2030 and 2040 emission reduction targets and also carbon budgets."},{"speaker":"","text":"I plan to bring proposals on public body reporting regulations and carbon budgets to the Executive and to Assembly colleagues for their agreement very soon."},{"speaker":"","text":"In addition, DAERA is leading the development of Northern Ireland's first climate action plan in collaboration with all other Departments. The plan will set out our collective approach to delivering the emissions reductions required to achieve our first carbon budget. The draft climate action plan will be consulted on for 16 weeks. The first climate action plan on which we will consult is dated 2023-27. The fact that we are in 2024 but consulting on a climate action plan that started in 2023 perhaps gives Members a sense of the impact of the collapse of the institutions. Work is also progressing on the establishment of a just transition commission. I hope to issue proposals for that consultation later in 2024. I want to ensure that climate change and green growth considerations are central to all policy and budgetary decisions taken by all Departments across Northern Ireland. It is essential that an assessment of climate, environmental and just transition impacts be embedded in decision-making processes. I have already spoken to the Finance Minister about that. Delivering the transformational change that the Act requires will be extremely challenging, but it also presents significant opportunities for our economy, society and environment."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"What role should climate change have in a future Programme for Government? Is the Minister happy to accept an invite to a future meeting of the all-party group (APG) on climate action?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"I thank the Member for his question. The issue of climate change must be central to the next Programme for Government. It is my top priority as Minister, but it should be the top priority across the Government, because there are opportunities arising out of it. If we do not make the associated investment, we will not realise them. I would be delighted to go to one of the next meetings of the APG. It is an important APG. I know that you chair the group, and I will be glad to attend it."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Toole","text":"Minister, I welcome the fact that you have a commitment to the issue and that you have said clearly that it should be a collective climate action plan, that all Departments have a responsibility and that you will encourage them to take on that responsibility. To that end, in a written answer to me, the Minister for Infrastructure did not confirm whether his Department would meet its obligation under the Act to deliver on spending 10% of its budget on active travel in the next financial year. Further to your previous answer, will you commit to writing to the Infrastructure Minister to encourage him to ensure that that 10% is spent on active travel?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"I thank the Member for his question. It is important that all Departments live up to their legal obligations arising from the Act. I will engage with the Minister for Infrastructure alongside the Minister for the Economy and the Minister for Communities, all of whom have significant input on the climate action plan, and with my other Executive colleagues once we are able to bring the plan to the Executive. That engagement will be ongoing. I know what my responsibilities are, but there are responsibilities across government and society. It is important that we all live up to them."},{"speaker":"Mr Allister","text":"The Minister knows what his responsibilities are, but has he costed them for meeting the 2030 targets? If so, what are those costings?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"Work is ongoing to scope out and refine the cost associated with delivering the commitments that will be set out in Northern Ireland's first climate action plan. Some of them will fall to DAERA, but other Departments will bear costs. The Department of Finance commissioned a Budget 2024-25 exercise for Departments on 18 February. My Department is firming up its projected costs and bids for next year as part of that exercise. They will be considered by the Executive along with bids from all Departments in due course. Projected costs for 2025-26 and beyond will be worked up as part of the Budget exercises covering those years. It is important that the costs and opportunities of addressing climate change be embedded in economic appraisal processes. It is also important to emphasise that those are upfront costs and that they represent investments in an improved society for future generations. The cost of delaying action would ultimately be much greater. I add that the UK Government's financial settlement to Northern Ireland, which should allow us to live up to our climate change obligations and to take advantage of those opportunities, falls well short. It is about time that the UK Government realised that Northern Ireland is funded below its objective need and that we ought to be allowed to invest in our public services for the good of all the people in Northern Ireland."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20152%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391452","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-03-11&docID=392360#AQO%20152/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391452"}},{"id":"390565","reference":"AQW 7480/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-26","answerBy":"2024-02-29","answered":"2024-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what action he will take to ensure the continuity of the provision of Risdiplam for people with neuromuscular conditions.","answerText":"NICE TA755, when originally issued in December 2021, initially recommended the use of Risdiplam as an option for treating 5q spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in people 2 months and older with a clinical diagnosis of SMA types 1, 2 or 3 or with pre-symptomatic SMA and 1 to 4 SMN2 copies. In accordance with DoH Circular HSC (SQSD) 12/22 the Department of Health made provision for patients on this basis.\n\nIn December 2023, NICE updated its recommendation to include people of all ages with a clinical diagnosis of SMA types 1, 2 or 3 or with pre-symptomatic SMA and 1 to 4 SMN2 copies to take account for the license extension to the marketing authorisation.\n\nIn accordance with DoH Circular HSC (SQSD) 12/22 which sets out the process for endorsement, implementation, monitoring and assurance in Northern Ireland, the Department endorsed the updated NICE TA as applicable in Northern Ireland on 26 January 2023.\n\nMy Department have issued a Service Notification to HSC Trusts and other relevant providers and stakeholders on 19 February 2024 setting out the expectations for implementation.\n\nSubsequently, hospital clinicians, on behalf of their patients are currently able to make application to the SPPG for the use of Risdiplam for all ages who meet the necessary criteria.\n\nThe Department is aware that the lead adult neuromuscular consultant is due to leave post at the end of March 2024 and my Department is currently engaging with Trusts to put arrangements in place for the continuation of this treatment for adults in 2024/25 and beyond.","answerHtml":"NICE TA755, when originally issued in December 2021, initially recommended the use of Risdiplam as an option for treating 5q spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in people 2 months and older with a clinical diagnosis of SMA types 1, 2 or 3 or with pre-symptomatic SMA and 1 to 4 SMN2 copies. In accordance with DoH Circular HSC (SQSD) 12/22 the Department of Health made provision for patients on this basis.
In December 2023, NICE updated its recommendation to include people of all ages with a clinical diagnosis of SMA types 1, 2 or 3 or with pre-symptomatic SMA and 1 to 4 SMN2 copies to take account for the license extension to the marketing authorisation.
In accordance with DoH Circular HSC (SQSD) 12/22 which sets out the process for endorsement, implementation, monitoring and assurance in Northern Ireland, the Department endorsed the updated NICE TA as applicable in Northern Ireland on 26 January 2023.
My Department have issued a Service Notification to HSC Trusts and other relevant providers and stakeholders on 19 February 2024 setting out the expectations for implementation.
Subsequently, hospital clinicians, on behalf of their patients are currently able to make application to the SPPG for the use of Risdiplam for all ages who meet the necessary criteria.
The Department is aware that the lead adult neuromuscular consultant is due to leave post at the end of March 2024 and my Department is currently engaging with Trusts to put arrangements in place for the continuation of this treatment for adults in 2024/25 and beyond.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207480%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390565","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390565"}},{"id":"390564","reference":"AQW 7479/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-26","answerBy":"2024-03-12","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether he is aware of the current shortage of ADHD medication and the reasons for this; and (ii) whether his Department has contingency plans in place to mitigate against future shortages.","answerText":"While supply disruptions of some attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatments have now resolved, my Department is aware of ongoing supply disruptions across the whole of the UK involving various strengths and preparations of lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse®) and methylphenidate. The supply disruptions have been caused by a combination of manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand for these products.\n\nThe Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) in England, who leads on the arrangements for maintaining medicines supply chains to the UK, works closely with the pharmaceutical industry, the devolved governments, including my Department, and others operating in the supply chain to help prevent shortages and to ensure that the risks to patients are minimised when they do arise. There are national and locally tried and tested contingency arrangements in place for dealing with any supply disruptions to ensure that patients continue to get the medical supplies they need.","answerHtml":"While supply disruptions of some attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatments have now resolved, my Department is aware of ongoing supply disruptions across the whole of the UK involving various strengths and preparations of lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse®) and methylphenidate. The supply disruptions have been caused by a combination of manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand for these products.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) in England, who leads on the arrangements for maintaining medicines supply chains to the UK, works closely with the pharmaceutical industry, the devolved governments, including my Department, and others operating in the supply chain to help prevent shortages and to ensure that the risks to patients are minimised when they do arise. There are national and locally tried and tested contingency arrangements in place for dealing with any supply disruptions to ensure that patients continue to get the medical supplies they need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207479%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390564","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390564"}},{"id":"392631","reference":"AQO 132/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-22","answerBy":"2024-03-05","answered":"2024-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he will address the ongoing traffic flow issues at Sandford Avenue leading onto Old Belfast Road, Larne.","answerText":"The proposed road linkage between Sandford Avenue and Old Belfast Road is subject to a Private Streets Determination, so responsibility for its completion rests with the developer.\n\nAlthough this link road has yet to be completed, officials have reviewed traffic movements and flows in the area and are content that it is operating satisfactorily.","answerHtml":"The proposed road linkage between Sandford Avenue and Old Belfast Road is subject to a Private Streets Determination, so responsibility for its completion rests with the developer.
Although this link road has yet to be completed, officials have reviewed traffic movements and flows in the area and are content that it is operating satisfactorily.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20132%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392631","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392631"}},{"id":"389227","reference":"AQW 6841/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","answerBy":"2024-02-22","answered":"2024-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health why he is waiting for negotiations with doctors in England to conclude before addressing pay and conditions for doctors in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I have already taken steps to address, in part, medical and dental pay by accepting the recommendations of the relevant pay review body for 2023/24.\n\nIndustrial action by BMA members is being undertaken across the United Kingdom in support of an above-inflation uplift and a commitment to address pay erosion. Any pay erosion has been a consequence of national fiscal policies over the past decade which have impacted across the public sector. This is a national issue, and it is therefore prudent to await the outcome of wider discussions to make better informed decisions. My Department has committed to further negotiations when we have greater clarity on any final settlement in the ongoing disputes.","answerHtml":"I have already taken steps to address, in part, medical and dental pay by accepting the recommendations of the relevant pay review body for 2023/24.
Industrial action by BMA members is being undertaken across the United Kingdom in support of an above-inflation uplift and a commitment to address pay erosion. Any pay erosion has been a consequence of national fiscal policies over the past decade which have impacted across the public sector. This is a national issue, and it is therefore prudent to await the outcome of wider discussions to make better informed decisions. My Department has committed to further negotiations when we have greater clarity on any final settlement in the ongoing disputes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206841%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389227","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389227"}},{"id":"389226","reference":"AQW 6840/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","answerBy":"2024-03-05","answered":"2024-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of how low morale amongst health and social care staff, due to pay and conditions lagging behind those of neighbouring jurisdictions, will impact on the delivery of health services.","answerText":"Staff are the backbone of health and social care services and deserve to be properly rewarded for their work. They have rightly voiced their displeasure over the last financial year at the delay in processing an appropriate pay award due to the lack of political institutions. The return of the Executive and allocation of resources to my Department has enabled me to take immediate action to address this issue. Our HSC staff are to be highly commended for their continued commitment to serving our population despite the challenging circumstances they face.","answerHtml":"Staff are the backbone of health and social care services and deserve to be properly rewarded for their work. They have rightly voiced their displeasure over the last financial year at the delay in processing an appropriate pay award due to the lack of political institutions. The return of the Executive and allocation of resources to my Department has enabled me to take immediate action to address this issue. Our HSC staff are to be highly commended for their continued commitment to serving our population despite the challenging circumstances they face.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206840%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389226","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389226"}},{"id":"389225","reference":"AQW 6839/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","answerBy":"2024-03-05","answered":"2024-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will personally engage with the British Medical Association on resolving the current dispute over pay and conditions.","answerText":"As I outlined to the chamber on Tuesday in response to your supplementary question, I have already committed to a meeting with the Chair of the BMA(NI). My officials will also continue to engage with the BMA.","answerHtml":"As I outlined to the chamber on Tuesday in response to your supplementary question, I have already committed to a meeting with the Chair of the BMA(NI). My officials will also continue to engage with the BMA.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206839%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389225"}},{"id":"389224","reference":"AQW 6838/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","answerBy":"2024-03-05","answered":"2024-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of whether the context around pay and conditions for health workers in Northern Ireland is different from that of the rest of the UK, given that residents in parts of Northern Ireland can work for Sláintecare on higher salaries.","answerText":"There is no doubt that we have seen an increase in individuals leaving our service, particularly in the border areas, to take up employment within Sláintecare. I would anticipate that implementation of the long delayed 2023/24 pay award will go some way to improving the situation, but pay is not the only consideration when individuals make their career choices.\n\nAs part of the proposed AfC pay settlement, my Department will provide a renewed focus on the Workforce Strategy, to improve working conditions across Northern Ireland. Staff well-being, coupled with real transformation of our services, should be our focus at this time.","answerHtml":"There is no doubt that we have seen an increase in individuals leaving our service, particularly in the border areas, to take up employment within Sláintecare. I would anticipate that implementation of the long delayed 2023/24 pay award will go some way to improving the situation, but pay is not the only consideration when individuals make their career choices.
As part of the proposed AfC pay settlement, my Department will provide a renewed focus on the Workforce Strategy, to improve working conditions across Northern Ireland. Staff well-being, coupled with real transformation of our services, should be our focus at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206838%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389224","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389224"}},{"id":"389223","reference":"AQW 6837/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","answerBy":"2024-03-05","answered":"2024-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how he will address issues in relation to pay awards for Health and Social Care workers lagging behind those elsewhere in the UK during the current financial year.","answerText":"This not an issue my Department can address in isolation. Delays in implementation of pay awards are due to budgetary processes locally. The lack of multi-year budgets restricts the ability of my Department to plan for future expenditure.\n\nAny potential pay awards must also reflect wider public sector pay policies issued annually by the Department of Finance, and be approved by that Department.","answerHtml":"This not an issue my Department can address in isolation. Delays in implementation of pay awards are due to budgetary processes locally. The lack of multi-year budgets restricts the ability of my Department to plan for future expenditure.
Any potential pay awards must also reflect wider public sector pay policies issued annually by the Department of Finance, and be approved by that Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206837%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389223"}},{"id":"388634","reference":"AQW 6556/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-15","answerBy":"2024-03-01","answered":"2024-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether his Department has considered the introduction of grants for energy conservation projects such as (i) insulation; (ii) heat pumps; (iii) solar panels; and (iv) any other method of improving energy efficiency for households.","answerText":"My department is currently preparing a consultation on evidence-based options for a domestic energy efficiency programme in line with Action 4 of the Energy Strategy Action Plan for 2023. The outcome of this consultation will help to inform options regarding the design, rules, and guidance of future support. In the interim, the department is working with partners such as the Utility Regulator to assess the options for further scaling of up existing energy efficiency programmes.\n\nMy department is also preparing a public consultation on a low carbon heat support scheme in line with Action 8 of the Energy Strategy Action Plan for 2023. The outcome of this consultation will help to inform options regarding the design, rules, and guidance of future support for low carbon heating technologies which will include heat pumps.\n\nThe Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 set out a target of 80% of electricity consumption to be from renewable sources by 2030.\n\nEssential to meeting this target will be the establishment of a support scheme for renewable electricity as outlined in the Energy Strategy Action Plan for 2022 and 2023. My officials are currently working on a scheme design that will incentivise investment in larger scale renewable electricity projects. Options for microgeneration support, including domestic renewable generation such as solar panels, will continue to be evaluated as part of our net zero ambitions.\n\nHomeowners may wish to seek independent advice on solar panels, heat pumps and other energy efficiency matters from organisations such as the NI Energy Advice Service, the Energy Saving Trust and Citizen’s Advice. These technologies have the potential to provide an attractive payback to homeowners without grant support.\n\nEnergy Strategy - Path to Net Zero Energy - 2023 Action Plan Report (economy-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"My department is currently preparing a consultation on evidence-based options for a domestic energy efficiency programme in line with Action 4 of the Energy Strategy Action Plan for 2023. The outcome of this consultation will help to inform options regarding the design, rules, and guidance of future support. In the interim, the department is working with partners such as the Utility Regulator to assess the options for further scaling of up existing energy efficiency programmes.
My department is also preparing a public consultation on a low carbon heat support scheme in line with Action 8 of the Energy Strategy Action Plan for 2023. The outcome of this consultation will help to inform options regarding the design, rules, and guidance of future support for low carbon heating technologies which will include heat pumps.
The Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 set out a target of 80% of electricity consumption to be from renewable sources by 2030.
Essential to meeting this target will be the establishment of a support scheme for renewable electricity as outlined in the Energy Strategy Action Plan for 2022 and 2023. My officials are currently working on a scheme design that will incentivise investment in larger scale renewable electricity projects. Options for microgeneration support, including domestic renewable generation such as solar panels, will continue to be evaluated as part of our net zero ambitions.
Homeowners may wish to seek independent advice on solar panels, heat pumps and other energy efficiency matters from organisations such as the NI Energy Advice Service, the Energy Saving Trust and Citizen’s Advice. These technologies have the potential to provide an attractive payback to homeowners without grant support.
Energy Strategy - Path to Net Zero Energy - 2023 Action Plan Report (economy-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206556%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388634","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388634"}},{"id":"388748","reference":"AQO 63/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-15","answerBy":"2024-02-26","answered":"2024-02-26","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he plans to introduce legislation, before the beginning of the 2024-2025 academic year, following the review of the criteria for free school meals and uniform grants.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"My Department's review of the eligibility criteria for free school meals and uniform grants continues to examine a range of options for increasing the number of children and young people who are able to access free school meals and uniform grants. The options that are being considered include raising the income thresholds that apply to some of the means-tested criteria; the introduction of universal free school meals provision to pupils in some school years; and options that are a combination of the two. The arrangements for the provision of milk, meals and related facilities that were made under the provisions of articles 58 and 59 of the Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 set out the eligibility criteria that apply to the provision of free school meals. Although it will be dependent on the detail of any change to the eligibility criteria, any changes are likely to be able to be made through the revision of those arrangements, and, as a result, no additional legislation is anticipated. The eligibility criteria for uniform grants are very similar to the criteria for free school meals. They are detailed in the EA's clothing allowance scheme under article 60 of the 1986 Order, and, as with free school meals, it is anticipated that any change in the eligibility criteria will be able to be taken forward as a revision to that scheme and therefore will not require legislative change. I will be considering the next steps of that review in the time ahead and, in doing so, I will take account of the potential budgetary implications of any change in the eligibility criteria."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. He mentioned a couple of options that he is looking at. Is he considering implementing a cap on school uniform cost?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"The cost of uniforms is one of the issues that I will be engaging further on with the Department. Guidance was provided to schools on that issue. It is one that comes up every year, and I again appeal to schools. If they were following the guidance, legislation would not be necessary in this area. It is a prohibitive factor for some families when they choose the school that children go to."},{"speaker":"","text":"It does not just apply to school uniforms. Children may be in a multiplicity of sports clubs in a school that have different kits, and, if those kits are branded, they can come to a significant amount of money. Cost should not be a prohibiter in deciding what school a child goes to. We need to be cognisant of that reality for a lot of families across Northern Ireland."},{"speaker":"Mr Clarke","text":"Thanks very much for your answer, Minister. In your response, you talked about the uniform grant and the guidance. It is clear that some schools are not following the guidance. Given that, what are your plans, going forward, for the removal of some of the costs that you referred to?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"The Member is right about the fact that some schools are not following the guidance. I should say, however, that a considerable majority are doing so. Obviously, I want all schools to follow it. My officials have carried out significant work to identify possible solutions. A pre-consultation exercise, which engaged with a wide range of stakeholders, has taken place. A public consultation, launching in late spring, will gather stakeholder views on areas such as the need for statutory guidance on school uniforms, the cost and affordability of school uniforms, the use of branded items and sole-supplier arrangements."},{"speaker":"Mr Baker","text":"Does the Minister have plans to reinstate the school holiday food grant scheme and put it on a statutory footing?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"I have asked for an assessment to be provided to me on what is commonly known as the \"holiday hunger payment\". Members will know that that came to an end on 31 March last year because of budgetary pressures in the Department of Education. I have asked for an assessment of the issue to be provided to me. The issue cuts across other Departments. The Department for Communities, for example, has a role when it comes to the anti-poverty strategy. It is important that we look at this in its totality. I have asked officials to provide me with a report that I will then consider."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%2063%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388748","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-02-26&docID=389673#AQO%2063/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388748"}},{"id":"388736","reference":"AQO 51/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-15","answerBy":"2024-02-26","answered":"2024-02-26","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline what progress has been made on the development of a new Nursing Higher Level Apprenticeship Framework.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"A level 6 higher-level apprenticeship in adult nursing is currently approved for delivery by the Open University. Joint funding for a single cohort of nine apprentices was provided by my Department and the Department of Health. That cohort was recruited into the programme in 2020 and completed their apprenticeships in 2023. All nursing apprentices on the programme were employed in the private sector, mainly in private care homes."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. What else does the Minister intend to do, working with the Health Department, to support workforce development?"},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"Primary responsibility for that will be with the Health Department. My Department has a general responsibility for skills, education and training, particularly in relation to apprenticeships. That scheme shows that, where there is collaboration between Departments, it can have a positive outcome. Albeit that is small numbers, it is still a positive outcome. As I said in response to a previous question, the best outcome that we can get from an Executive with limited resources is collaboration across Departments to ensure that we are not duplicating or cutting across one another. I am happy to work with the Health Department to ensure that we work together, where we can, to provide support for people to improve their skills and qualifications and the productivity that they bring to the workforce."},{"speaker":"Mr Middleton","text":"Does the Minister agree that we need to improve career guidance and entry rates across the board, not only into the health service but across the public sector, and that any development of such a programme needs to be reflected in the ethos in our schools and in careers advice?"},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"Yes, I do. I have had that conversation briefly with the Minister of Education. The traditional pathways, basically through schools, were either into vocational work or universities. They are much broader and more varied now, and there is much more opportunity for people to follow high-level apprenticeships. We need to ensure that, when kids are 13 or 14 years old, they get all those options laid out for them and their parents, so that they can pursue whatever option, they think, is best for them, and that they continue to receive advice as they progress through school. Again, it is a bit like my response to the previous question: the more cohesion we have between Departments working together, the better the outcomes we will get, particularly for young people."},{"speaker":"Mr Delargy","text":"I thank the Minister for his answers so far. Does he recognise the opportunities that public-sector apprenticeships present?"},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"Yes, I do, increasingly. In my previous role in the Department of Finance, we had responsibility for civil servants. There were efforts there to ensure that we gave opportunities for people to come forward, particularly people who, perhaps, would not ordinarily have ended up working in some parts of the public service. It is to the good of the public service generally that we have more diversity and ranges of experience in it. It leads to better outcomes in the decisions that it has to take and the ideas that it generates. It is of enormous value. We have recognised that we have a stubbornly low level of productivity. We are the worst-performing region on these islands. It is through assistance, career progression, studying and apprenticeships that we will bring individuals up in terms of their approach to it, and that, in turn, will bring up overall productivity levels."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%2051%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388736","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-02-26&docID=389673#AQO%2051/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388736"}},{"id":"387993","reference":"AQW 6154/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-12","answerBy":"2024-02-27","answered":"2024-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how many people are currently receiving Discretionary Housing Payments; and (ii) how many have been receiving these payments for more than two years.","answerText":"The number of people receiving Discretionary Housing Payments and how many have been receiving payments for more than two years are operational matters for the Housing Executive.\n\nYou should, therefore, direct your question to the Housing Executive at its dedicated MLA response team, which can be contacted at public.affairsunit@nihe.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"The number of people receiving Discretionary Housing Payments and how many have been receiving payments for more than two years are operational matters for the Housing Executive.
You should, therefore, direct your question to the Housing Executive at its dedicated MLA response team, which can be contacted at public.affairsunit@nihe.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206154%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387993"}},{"id":"387520","reference":"AQW 5884/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-13","answered":"2024-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the impact of the decision to cut funding to the vasectomy service delivered by GPs as part of primary care surgical services; and (ii) whether he plans to reinstate the funding.","answerText":"The Primary Care Elective Service model has historically been sustained through non-recurrent funding. I recognise the value of the Primary Care Elective Services but due to a significant non-recurrent funding gap and budgetary pressures in 2023/24 it has not been possible to sustain the primary care vasectomy service beyond September 2023.\n\nDespite a reduction in the primary care service, GPs are still able to refer patients to Secondary Care, however I recognise that hospital-based service waiting times are long and addressing lengthy waiting times is a priority.\n\nI remain committed to the delivery of GP Elective Services across Northern Ireland, and I am working with my Executive colleagues to secure the funding needed to tackle our length waiting lists","answerHtml":"The Primary Care Elective Service model has historically been sustained through non-recurrent funding. I recognise the value of the Primary Care Elective Services but due to a significant non-recurrent funding gap and budgetary pressures in 2023/24 it has not been possible to sustain the primary care vasectomy service beyond September 2023.
Despite a reduction in the primary care service, GPs are still able to refer patients to Secondary Care, however I recognise that hospital-based service waiting times are long and addressing lengthy waiting times is a priority.
I remain committed to the delivery of GP Elective Services across Northern Ireland, and I am working with my Executive colleagues to secure the funding needed to tackle our length waiting lists
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205884%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387520","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387520"}},{"id":"387619","reference":"AQO 6/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-19","answered":"2024-02-19","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for a timeline to implement the Strategic Framework to Ending Violence Against Women and Girls.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"With your permission, Cheann Comhairle, junior Minister Reilly will answer this question."},{"speaker":"Miss Reilly","text":"We are committed to bringing forward the strategic framework to end violence against women and girls as soon as possible. This Executive strategy has been developed through a successful co-design process involving people and organisations from right across government and society, including, crucially, those with lived experience. Our officials are liaising with Departments and members of the co-design group regarding the outcome of the recent public consultation. Preparatory work to enable effective delivery is under way, and the draft two-year implementation plan is being developed for consideration by Ministers. The draft strategic framework is expected to be submitted for Executive consideration and approval in the coming weeks. We recognise that a lot of work is already being taken forward across Departments and in our communities. The framework is intended to enhance and complement that work in order to bring about the changes that we all want to see. It is essential that we work in a more strategic, joined-up way to tackle violence against women and girls. Governance structures are being designed to avoid duplication and maximise the effectiveness of public resources. Close departmental collaboration is ongoing, and monitoring will have an outcomes-based focus to ensure effective implementation."},{"speaker":"Mr Donnelly","text":"Ministers will be aware that many of these frameworks are subject to budgets. Is the Minister satisfied that an adequate budget exists for this work over the period that it is required?"},{"speaker":"Miss Reilly","text":"The Member knows that we are operating in a very difficult budgetary situation, the impact of which is felt across all Departments and within our communities. We acknowledge the continuing good work that is being carried out by delivery partners in very challenging circumstances. Work is ongoing to develop an implementation plan to support the delivery of the strategic framework. That work includes the preparation of a detailed business case to inform ministerial decisions on associated funding requirements."},{"speaker":"Ms Sheerin","text":"Comhghairdeas leis an Aire faoina post nua. I formally congratulate my colleague on her appointment. The problem of violence against women and girls is so widespread in society and, by its very nature, statistics cannot properly capture just how big a problem it is. Can the junior Minister outline everything that she and her Department are doing to combat it?"},{"speaker":"Miss Reilly","text":"Gabhaim buíochas leis an Comhalta as ucht a ceiste."},{"speaker":"","text":"Yes. Significant work has already been taken forward by the Departments of Justice and Health through the stopping domestic and sexual violence strategy; by statutory agencies, including through the PSNI's 'Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls Action Plan'; and by the voluntary and community sector. Despite that, ending all forms of violence, abuse and harm against women and girls remains one of the most pressing challenges facing our society today. As a response, the previous Executive commissioned the development of the strategic framework, and work is under way to establish the foundation for the necessary whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. Engagement with stakeholders across a range of sectors is ongoing, including working together on prevention across education, in the workplace, when socialising and with our children and young people. This week, junior Minister Cameron and I, along with senior officials, met the UN special rapporteur on violence against women and girls, Reem Alsalem. It was clear from our discussion that, in order to make progress, we need to see that violence against women and girls is everyone's problem and that solving it will require collective action by everyone in society."},{"speaker":"Ms Egan","text":"Does the junior Minister agree that ending violence against women and girls will require buy-in from all Departments and that it made no sense for the Executive Office to consult on the strategy at the same time as the Department of Health cut all core grant funding from Women's Aid? Will the Executive Office commit to work with other Departments to implement the strategy?"},{"speaker":"Miss Reilly","text":"Go raibh maith agat, agus gabhaim buíochas leis an Chomhalta as an cheist sin fosta."},{"speaker":"","text":"I will be happy to come back to the Member in writing."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%206%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387619","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-02-19&docID=388359#AQO%206/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387619"}},{"id":"384565","reference":"AQW 4850/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-18","answerBy":"2022-10-26","answered":"2024-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) what youth work provision is currently funded by the Education Authority in Greenisland; and (ii) what plans are in place to reopen the Greenisland Youth Centre.","answerText":"The Education Authority currently funds Greenisland Statutory Youth Centre, and four registered voluntary youth providers: 1st Greenisland Boys Brigade; 1st Greenisland Scout Group, Greenisland Methodist Girls’ Brigade, and 1st Greenisland Brownies which are in receipt of EA generic non-targeted funding.\n\nIn addition, an Area Youth Worker for Carrickfergus and Larne has responsibility to support youth programmes in Greenisland where need is identified, this includes current delivery of the Horizons Programme with young people from Greenisland Youth Centre.\n\nA Facilitating Life and Resilience Education (FLARE) youth worker is also working with young people in Greenisland Youth Centre to support positive mental and emotional health and wellbeing, and a partnership response has been established to tackle anti-social behaviour and incidents of potential heightened unrest within the Greenisland area involving part-time and full-time youth workers from the centre in partnership with PSNI, Translink and Carrickfergus YMCA.\n\nGreenisland Youth Centre is currently fully operational having reopened in April 2021 following closure due to Covid restrictions and renovations. The Centre has remained open since then.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority currently funds Greenisland Statutory Youth Centre, and four registered voluntary youth providers: 1st Greenisland Boys Brigade; 1st Greenisland Scout Group, Greenisland Methodist Girls’ Brigade, and 1st Greenisland Brownies which are in receipt of EA generic non-targeted funding.
In addition, an Area Youth Worker for Carrickfergus and Larne has responsibility to support youth programmes in Greenisland where need is identified, this includes current delivery of the Horizons Programme with young people from Greenisland Youth Centre.
A Facilitating Life and Resilience Education (FLARE) youth worker is also working with young people in Greenisland Youth Centre to support positive mental and emotional health and wellbeing, and a partnership response has been established to tackle anti-social behaviour and incidents of potential heightened unrest within the Greenisland area involving part-time and full-time youth workers from the centre in partnership with PSNI, Translink and Carrickfergus YMCA.
Greenisland Youth Centre is currently fully operational having reopened in April 2021 following closure due to Covid restrictions and renovations. The Centre has remained open since then.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204850%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384565","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384565"}},{"id":"381136","reference":"AQW 3400/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-22","answerBy":"2022-10-07","answered":"2022-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many social homes have been built in the villages of (i) Glenarm; (ii) Carnlough; (iii) Glenariffe; (iv) Cushendall; and (v) Cushendun, in the last 40 years.","answerText":"The Housing Executive have advised that it does not hold information on the numbers of new social homes built in these locations over a 40-year period. The information has been provided for the period 2007/08 to 2021/22 (i.e. since responsibility for the Programme Management of the Social Housing Development Programme [SHDP]) transferred to the Housing Executive in 2007).\n\nBetween the period 2007/08 to 2021/22:\n\nThere have been 13 new social housing Completions in Glenarm.\n\nThere have been 30 new social housing Completions in Carnlough.\n\nThere have been no new social housing Completions in Glenariffe.\n\nThere have been no new social housing Completions in Cushendall.\n\nThere have been no new social housing Completions in Cushendun.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive have advised that it does not hold information on the numbers of new social homes built in these locations over a 40-year period. The information has been provided for the period 2007/08 to 2021/22 (i.e. since responsibility for the Programme Management of the Social Housing Development Programme [SHDP]) transferred to the Housing Executive in 2007).
Between the period 2007/08 to 2021/22:
There have been 13 new social housing Completions in Glenarm.
There have been 30 new social housing Completions in Carnlough.
There have been no new social housing Completions in Glenariffe.
There have been no new social housing Completions in Cushendall.
There have been no new social housing Completions in Cushendun.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203400%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381136","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381136"}},{"id":"381135","reference":"AQW 3399/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-22","answerBy":"2022-09-30","answered":"2022-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the School Enhancement Programme in East Antrim, particularly the status of the Technical Feasibility Reports for Carrickfergus Grammar School and Greenisland Primary School.","answerText":"There are four School Enhancement Programme school projects within the East Antrim constituency, namely Carrickfergus Grammar School, Greenisland Primary School, Thornfield House and Roddensvale School.\n\nAs these are all controlled schools, the projects are being delivered by the Education Authority (EA). The current status of each scheme is as follows:\n\nGreenisland Primary School – The design team is currently developing the Technical Feasibility Report (TFR) for the project. The Business Case will be progressed on completion of an approved TFR.\n\nCarrickfergus Grammar School – The design team is currently developing the TFR for the project. The Business Case will be progressed on completion of an approved TFR.\n\nThornfield House – The TFR has been completed and the business case is in the final stages of drafting.\n\nRoddensvale School – The TFR had been completed and a draft business case produced. However, the EA had to advance additional accommodation at the school for September 2022 and September 2023, due to ongoing critical accommodation needs. The TFR for the School Enhancement project is currently being updated to reflect the provision of this additional accommodation. When the updated TFR has been received, the Business Case will be updated by the EA and resubmitted to the Department of Education for approval.","answerHtml":"There are four School Enhancement Programme school projects within the East Antrim constituency, namely Carrickfergus Grammar School, Greenisland Primary School, Thornfield House and Roddensvale School.
As these are all controlled schools, the projects are being delivered by the Education Authority (EA). The current status of each scheme is as follows:
Greenisland Primary School – The design team is currently developing the Technical Feasibility Report (TFR) for the project. The Business Case will be progressed on completion of an approved TFR.
Carrickfergus Grammar School – The design team is currently developing the TFR for the project. The Business Case will be progressed on completion of an approved TFR.
Thornfield House – The TFR has been completed and the business case is in the final stages of drafting.
Roddensvale School – The TFR had been completed and a draft business case produced. However, the EA had to advance additional accommodation at the school for September 2022 and September 2023, due to ongoing critical accommodation needs. The TFR for the School Enhancement project is currently being updated to reflect the provision of this additional accommodation. When the updated TFR has been received, the Business Case will be updated by the EA and resubmitted to the Department of Education for approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203399%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381135","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381135"}},{"id":"377179","reference":"AQW 2193/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-27","answerBy":"2022-07-14","answered":"2022-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps he has taken to progress the implementation of safe staffing levels within the health service.","answerText":"I remain committed to the delivery and implementation of the Delivering Care policy for Nursing and Midwifery. I have secured additional funding to expand the clinical workforce and initiated the process to bring forward safe staffing legislation to the Assembly.\n\nMy Department is committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands, for example, this year we have commissioned pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places at a record high level, (1,335). In addition, a total of 1,023 nurses have been recruited internationally over the last 4 years.\n\nSince January 2020, I have secured additional recurrent funding of £60m to ensure safe and effective staffing for Nursing and Midwifery from the Executive. To date £25 million of this funding has been allocated, delivering approximately 360 whole time equivalent nursing and midwifery posts.\n\nIn May I announced a £2.1m education and training package which includes expansion of medical specialty training posts, and an additional 41 AHP training posts this year. As Minister, I will continue to do the best I can to deliver for the HSC and the public within the constrained resources I have available.\n\nMy commitment to introducing a Safe Staffing Bill early in the new Assembly mandate remains. Despite the current uncertainties, work is continuing in partnership with the co-design group and interested stakeholders to ensure that the policy proposals for the Bill are fully developed and agreed.\n\nTransformation of health and social care in Northern Ireland is a priority.","answerHtml":"I remain committed to the delivery and implementation of the Delivering Care policy for Nursing and Midwifery. I have secured additional funding to expand the clinical workforce and initiated the process to bring forward safe staffing legislation to the Assembly.
My Department is committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands, for example, this year we have commissioned pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places at a record high level, (1,335). In addition, a total of 1,023 nurses have been recruited internationally over the last 4 years.
Since January 2020, I have secured additional recurrent funding of £60m to ensure safe and effective staffing for Nursing and Midwifery from the Executive. To date £25 million of this funding has been allocated, delivering approximately 360 whole time equivalent nursing and midwifery posts.
In May I announced a £2.1m education and training package which includes expansion of medical specialty training posts, and an additional 41 AHP training posts this year. As Minister, I will continue to do the best I can to deliver for the HSC and the public within the constrained resources I have available.
My commitment to introducing a Safe Staffing Bill early in the new Assembly mandate remains. Despite the current uncertainties, work is continuing in partnership with the co-design group and interested stakeholders to ensure that the policy proposals for the Bill are fully developed and agreed.
Transformation of health and social care in Northern Ireland is a priority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202193%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377179","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377179"}},{"id":"375916","reference":"AQW 1535/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-15","answerBy":"2022-06-20","answered":"2022-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education why children with a statement of special educational needs and special dietary requirements are not included on the eligibility criteria for non-means-tested Free School Meals on the Education Authority website, when they are entitled to them.","answerText":"Registration and application for SEN children with special dietary needs is available on the EA website at https://www.eani.org.uk/financial-help/free-school-meals-uniform-grants/free-school-meals-uniform-grant-eligibility\n\nIn addition on 30 May 2022, the EA issued a letter to all school Principals setting out the entitlement under special diets.","answerHtml":"Registration and application for SEN children with special dietary needs is available on the EA website at https://www.eani.org.uk/financial-help/free-school-meals-uniform-grants/free-school-meals-uniform-grant-eligibility
In addition on 30 May 2022, the EA issued a letter to all school Principals setting out the entitlement under special diets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201535%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375916","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375916"}},{"id":"375915","reference":"AQW 1534/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-15","answerBy":"2022-06-30","answered":"2022-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on plans to alleviate traffic flow issues in the Larne West area.","answerText":"My Department currently has no traffic management schemes planned for the Larne West area and has ensured that all housing developments (both constructed and proposed) in the Larne West area have satisfactory access to the public road network.\n\nIn the case of the most recent planning application for an additional 500 houses, the applicant was required to complete a Transport Assessment which took account of the missing link at Larne Road West, and highlighted the requirement to provide road infrastructure improvements, such as the provision of traffic signals at the junction of Donaghy’s Lane with Antiville Road. These improvements are conditioned as part of the approval of that application.\n\nShould you have any further questions on this matter, please contact DfI Roads Northern Division at dfiroads.northern@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"My Department currently has no traffic management schemes planned for the Larne West area and has ensured that all housing developments (both constructed and proposed) in the Larne West area have satisfactory access to the public road network.
In the case of the most recent planning application for an additional 500 houses, the applicant was required to complete a Transport Assessment which took account of the missing link at Larne Road West, and highlighted the requirement to provide road infrastructure improvements, such as the provision of traffic signals at the junction of Donaghy’s Lane with Antiville Road. These improvements are conditioned as part of the approval of that application.
Should you have any further questions on this matter, please contact DfI Roads Northern Division at dfiroads.northern@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201534%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375915","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375915"}}]}