To ask the Minister of Health to detail any additional staffing that would be required to operate a 24/7 thrombectomy service.

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.