I continue to prioritise homelessness prevention within my funding decisions.
In 2025/26, in addition to the £4.3m available for community prevention activity, I introduced a ringfenced allocation of £2.5m for strategic homelessness prevention.
While no Executive Budget has been agreed for 2026/27, interim allocations have been issued to delivery partners, including the Housing Executive, to support the continuation of key programmes and services. This includes a ringfenced allocation for Strategic Prevention which has been maintained, as well as funding for Community Prevention and Support Initiatives which has been protected at 2025/26 levels.
I also circulated an Executive paper seeking additional funding to ensure homelessness services, including community and strategic prevention initiatives can be adequately and sustainably funded. Disappointingly, this has not yet been agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053540%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501755","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501755"}},{"id":"501754","reference":"AQW 53539/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-01","answerBy":"2026-10-16","answered":null,"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 his Department has made of the potential cost savings associated with homelessness prevention interventions compared with responding to homelessness after it occurs.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053539%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501754"}},{"id":"501753","reference":"AQW 53538/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-01","answerBy":"2026-10-16","answered":"2026-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of households that achieved recorded P1E homelessness prevention outcomes through projects funded by the Homelessness Prevention Fund, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:\n\n“Please note the Homeless Prevention Fund did not operate in 2023/24 and 2024/25.\n\nIn 2025/26, a total of 1,144 P1E outcomes were recorded by projects funded by the Homeless Prevention Fund.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:
“Please note the Homeless Prevention Fund did not operate in 2023/24 and 2024/25.
In 2025/26, a total of 1,144 P1E outcomes were recorded by projects funded by the Homeless Prevention Fund.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053538%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501753"}},{"id":"501752","reference":"AQW 53537/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-01","answerBy":"2026-10-16","answered":null,"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 his Department has given to expanding practical tenancy sustainment schemes, including support with food provision and household essentials, as part of the Department's homelessness prevention strategy.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053537%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501752","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501752"}},{"id":"503687","reference":"AQO 4094/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-01","answerBy":"2026-10-12","answered":"2026-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether there will be a roll-out of dedicated menopause healthcare practitioners to every GP practice.","answerText":"Women’s health is a priority for my Department. My Department recognises the significant impact that perimenopause and menopause can have on women’s physical health, mental wellbeing, employment and overall quality of life.\n\nA Regional HSC Gynaecology Services Forum has been established to oversee ongoing service improvement and implementation. Work being progressed by the menopause Task and Finish Group includes mapping a clinical pathway from presentation at GP services into secondary and tertiary care, which will benefit both patients and clinicians.\n\nThe pathway will consider which stages a woman can be managed in General Practice with clear guidelines for management and skills transfer, when required, and an enhanced triage process on referral ensuring that women receive the required assessment at each stage. Referral into inpatient and day case care will be standardised and equitable for all patients regardless of where they live.\n\nIt is anticipated that investment will be required to support the development of this pathway. Specific resource requirements are currently being considered as part of the ongoing pathway mapping process.\n\nMy Department is also developing Northern Ireland’s first Women’s Health Action Plan which I intend to publish shortly.\n\nIn the meantime, all GPs complete extensive postgraduate training, which includes menopause care, and are required to maintain their knowledge through continuing professional development, annual appraisal and General Medical Council (GMC) revalidation processes. Additional support is also available through the GPNI website which provides guidance, resources and educational webinars on topics such as menopause care.","answerHtml":"Women’s health is a priority for my Department. My Department recognises the significant impact that perimenopause and menopause can have on women’s physical health, mental wellbeing, employment and overall quality of life.
A Regional HSC Gynaecology Services Forum has been established to oversee ongoing service improvement and implementation. Work being progressed by the menopause Task and Finish Group includes mapping a clinical pathway from presentation at GP services into secondary and tertiary care, which will benefit both patients and clinicians.
The pathway will consider which stages a woman can be managed in General Practice with clear guidelines for management and skills transfer, when required, and an enhanced triage process on referral ensuring that women receive the required assessment at each stage. Referral into inpatient and day case care will be standardised and equitable for all patients regardless of where they live.
It is anticipated that investment will be required to support the development of this pathway. Specific resource requirements are currently being considered as part of the ongoing pathway mapping process.
My Department is also developing Northern Ireland’s first Women’s Health Action Plan which I intend to publish shortly.
In the meantime, all GPs complete extensive postgraduate training, which includes menopause care, and are required to maintain their knowledge through continuing professional development, annual appraisal and General Medical Council (GMC) revalidation processes. Additional support is also available through the GPNI website which provides guidance, resources and educational webinars on topics such as menopause care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%204094%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=503687","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=503687"}},{"id":"500893","reference":"AQW 53205/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-28","answerBy":"2026-10-13","answered":"2026-10-12","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 his Department has made of the impact of short-term funding cycles on the delivery and evaluation of homelessness prevention services.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive recognises the challenges caused by short-term funding cycles on the delivery and evaluation of homelessness prevention services.\n\nThe Housing Executive regularly engages with providers in receipt of funding and while we acknowledge their commitment to ensuring service objectives, the Housing Executive recognises that short-term funding causes particular difficulties in sustainability of staffing arrangements where short-term funding impacts on the length of contracts that providers may be able to offer.\n\nThe Housing Executive will continue to work with providers to provide as much engagement and assurance as practically possible in the context of wider funding challenges.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive recognises the challenges caused by short-term funding cycles on the delivery and evaluation of homelessness prevention services.
The Housing Executive regularly engages with providers in receipt of funding and while we acknowledge their commitment to ensuring service objectives, the Housing Executive recognises that short-term funding causes particular difficulties in sustainability of staffing arrangements where short-term funding impacts on the length of contracts that providers may be able to offer.
The Housing Executive will continue to work with providers to provide as much engagement and assurance as practically possible in the context of wider funding challenges.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053205%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500893","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500893"}},{"id":"500892","reference":"AQW 53204/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-28","answerBy":"2026-10-13","answered":"2026-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail whether multi-year funding arrangements for homelessness prevention projects through the Northern Ireland Housing Executive are included in the budget.","answerText":"The draft budget proposals for 2026/2030 reflected an extremely constrained budget position, falling substantially short of requirements to tackle homelessness over the budget period.\n\nIn the absence of an agreed budget, I have maintained ringfenced funding for Strategic Homelessness Prevention within the Housing Executive's interim allocation for 2026/27. While funding for Community Prevention and Support Initiatives is not ringfenced, it has been protected at the same level as 2025/26.\n\nI also circulated an Executive paper seeking additional funding to ensure homelessness services, including community and strategic prevention initiatives, can be adequately and sustainably funded. Disappointingly, this has not been agreed.","answerHtml":"The draft budget proposals for 2026/2030 reflected an extremely constrained budget position, falling substantially short of requirements to tackle homelessness over the budget period.
In the absence of an agreed budget, I have maintained ringfenced funding for Strategic Homelessness Prevention within the Housing Executive's interim allocation for 2026/27. While funding for Community Prevention and Support Initiatives is not ringfenced, it has been protected at the same level as 2025/26.
I also circulated an Executive paper seeking additional funding to ensure homelessness services, including community and strategic prevention initiatives, can be adequately and sustainably funded. Disappointingly, this has not been agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053204%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500892","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500892"}},{"id":"500891","reference":"AQW 53203/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-28","answerBy":"2026-10-13","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any funding allocated through the Homelessness Prevention Fund, in each of the last five financial years, broken down by; (i) each project supported; (ii) the amount they received; and (iii) the number of people not homeless as a result.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053203%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500891","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500891"}},{"id":"500890","reference":"AQW 53202/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-28","answerBy":"2026-10-13","answered":"2026-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any assessment his Department has made of the outcomes of the Fresh Foundations homelessness prevention pilot, which supported 50 households and recorded 32 P1E homelessness prevention outcomes; and (ii) any funding for the Fresh Foundations homelessness prevention pilot beyond its initial funding period.","answerText":"The Fresh Foundations pilot was supported through NIHE’s 2025/26 Homeless Prevention fund with £50k allocated to Homeless Connect to deliver this project in partnership with frontline homeless services. The positive contribution and impact of the project within the context of the wider prevention programme was acknowledged in the overall programme evaluation.\n\nThe Housing Executive invited applications to the Homelessness Prevention Fund in 2026/27 and prioritised the continuation of 25 projects. At present no further funding has been confirmed for the Fresh Foundations project.","answerHtml":"The Fresh Foundations pilot was supported through NIHE’s 2025/26 Homeless Prevention fund with £50k allocated to Homeless Connect to deliver this project in partnership with frontline homeless services. The positive contribution and impact of the project within the context of the wider prevention programme was acknowledged in the overall programme evaluation.
The Housing Executive invited applications to the Homelessness Prevention Fund in 2026/27 and prioritised the continuation of 25 projects. At present no further funding has been confirmed for the Fresh Foundations project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053202%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500890","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500890"}},{"id":"500889","reference":"AQW 53201/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-28","answerBy":"2026-10-13","answered":"2026-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any actions being taken through his Department to develop a Swim Strategy.","answerText":"I refer the Member to my response to AQO 3728/22-27.\n\nI asked the Chief Executive of Sport NI about any engagement on the development of a swimming strategy for Northern Ireland and received the following response:\n\n“Sport NI can advise it has had no engagement with Swim Ulster regarding a swimming strategy for Northern Ireland. Sport NI does not develop individual strategies for each sport in Northern Ireland. The development of strategies for each sport falls under the remit of the recognised National Governing Body. Sport NI would welcome the opportunity to work with Swim Ireland and Swim Ulster in the development of a sport strategy for swimming.”","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to my response to AQO 3728/22-27.
I asked the Chief Executive of Sport NI about any engagement on the development of a swimming strategy for Northern Ireland and received the following response:
“Sport NI can advise it has had no engagement with Swim Ulster regarding a swimming strategy for Northern Ireland. Sport NI does not develop individual strategies for each sport in Northern Ireland. The development of strategies for each sport falls under the remit of the recognised National Governing Body. Sport NI would welcome the opportunity to work with Swim Ireland and Swim Ulster in the development of a sport strategy for swimming.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053201%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500889","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500889"}},{"id":"502713","reference":"AQO 4067/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-24","answerBy":"2026-10-06","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline any action he has taken to reach an agreement with teachers to prevent industrial action short of strike.","answerText":"Each of the five recognised teaching trade unions balloted their members for industrial action and this commenced on Monday 28 September in the form of action short of strike action (ASOS).\n\nI have urged the teaching unions to reconsider their industrial action, and to give the additional time needed to secure a durable outcome for the profession, rather than continuing on a course of action that serves no one's interests - least of all those of the children and young people our schools exist to serve.\n\nI consider a negotiated agreement can be reached without the need for industrial action. My Department remains committed to the process and indeed further discussions are scheduled directly with Northern Ireland Teaching Council representatives and also at the Labour Relations Agency.\n\nThe negotiations are taking place through the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC) and departmental officials are directly involved in these discussions. Management Side of TNC remains fully committed to ongoing engagement with the teaching unions to reach an agreement without the need for further escalation. Management Side has also renewed its request for any action to be suspended to enable a full resolution to be agreed.","answerHtml":"Each of the five recognised teaching trade unions balloted their members for industrial action and this commenced on Monday 28 September in the form of action short of strike action (ASOS).
I have urged the teaching unions to reconsider their industrial action, and to give the additional time needed to secure a durable outcome for the profession, rather than continuing on a course of action that serves no one's interests - least of all those of the children and young people our schools exist to serve.
I consider a negotiated agreement can be reached without the need for industrial action. My Department remains committed to the process and indeed further discussions are scheduled directly with Northern Ireland Teaching Council representatives and also at the Labour Relations Agency.
The negotiations are taking place through the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC) and departmental officials are directly involved in these discussions. Management Side of TNC remains fully committed to ongoing engagement with the teaching unions to reach an agreement without the need for further escalation. Management Side has also renewed its request for any action to be suspended to enable a full resolution to be agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%204067%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=502713","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=502713"}},{"id":"500147","reference":"AQW 52827/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-23","answerBy":"2026-10-08","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 who have been waiting for an audiology review following the provision of hearing aids (i) for up to a year; (ii) between a year and two years; (iii) between two and three years; (iv) between three and four years; (v) between four and five years; and (vi) more than 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%2052827%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500147","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500147"}},{"id":"500146","reference":"AQW 52826/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-23","answerBy":"2026-10-08","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) any specialist clinical support that is available for people with an established diagnosis of epilepsy who are awaiting a consultant neurology appointment and require advice regarding seizure management, medication side effects or anti-seizure medication review; and (ii) whether such patients have access to an epilepsy specialist nurse, in each 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%2052826%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500146","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500146"}},{"id":"500145","reference":"AQW 52825/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-23","answerBy":"2026-10-08","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any review that has been undertaken to measure the reduction in sports activities in primary schools following the change in driver licensing that prevents teachers from driving a school minibus under a Section 10b permit.","answerText":"The Education Authority has advised that no such review has been undertaken.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority has advised that no such review has been undertaken.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052825%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500145","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500145"}},{"id":"500144","reference":"AQW 52824/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-23","answerBy":"2026-10-08","answered":"2026-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he will review the Northern Ireland driving licence, to enable volunteer minibus drivers, born after 1 January 1997, to drive up to 16 passenger seat vehicles, operated on a not-for-profit basis.","answerText":"My officials have previously engaged with the sector on this issue. The current licensing\n\narrangements for drivers of not-for-profit community transport providers are a legal\n\nrequirement in support of road safety and I have no plans to change them.","answerHtml":"My officials have previously engaged with the sector on this issue. The current licensing
arrangements for drivers of not-for-profit community transport providers are a legal
requirement in support of road safety and I have no plans to change them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052824%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500144","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500144"}},{"id":"500143","reference":"AQW 52823/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-23","answerBy":"2026-10-08","answered":"2026-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the recognised qualification standards for swimming teachers accepted by his Department and Sport NI.","answerText":"The recognised qualification standards for swimming teachers are not a matter for my Department or Sport NI.\n\nThe Chief Executive of Sport NI has advised me as follows:-\n\n“Qualification standards for swimming instructors are a matter for Swim Ulster as the recognised National Governing Body for swimming in Northern Ireland and the Swimming Teachers Association (UK wide organisation).”","answerHtml":"The recognised qualification standards for swimming teachers are not a matter for my Department or Sport NI.
The Chief Executive of Sport NI has advised me as follows:-
“Qualification standards for swimming instructors are a matter for Swim Ulster as the recognised National Governing Body for swimming in Northern Ireland and the Swimming Teachers Association (UK wide organisation).”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052823%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500143","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500143"}},{"id":"499536","reference":"AQW 52544/22-27","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 to detail the number of funded (i) consultant neurologist posts; and (ii) epilepsy specialist nurse posts, broken down by the number of posts (a) filled; and (b) vacant, in each 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%2052544%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499536","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499536"}},{"id":"499535","reference":"AQW 52543/22-27","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 to detail (i) the number of patients who are currently waiting longer than (i) 52 weeks; (ii) 104 weeks; and (iii) 156 weeks, for a first neurology outpatient appointment; and (ii) the current longest waiting time for a first neurology outpatient appointment, 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%2052543%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499535","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499535"}},{"id":"499534","reference":"AQW 52542/22-27","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 to detail (i) any funding that has been allocated, or is planned to be allocated, in the next two financial years, for the implementation of recommendations arising from the Regional Review of Neurology Services; and (ii) whether any assessment has been made of the findings and investment proposals set out in the September 2026 Northern Ireland Neurological Charities Alliance report Left Behind: The Price of Inaction on Neurology Reform.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052542%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499534","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499534"}},{"id":"499533","reference":"AQW 52541/22-27","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 to detail any immediate steps being taken to support patients who are awaiting assessment or treatment through neurology services and who are experiencing extended waiting times.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052541%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499533","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499533"}},{"id":"499292","reference":"AQW 52420/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-18","answerBy":"2026-10-05","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 measures in place to improve coordination and communication between consultant neurologists, epilepsy specialist nurses and general practitioners, in the management of patients with neurological conditions.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052420%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499292","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499292"}},{"id":"499291","reference":"AQW 52419/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-18","answerBy":"2026-10-05","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 patients that are currently waiting for a first neurology outpatient appointment, 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%2052419%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499291","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499291"}},{"id":"499290","reference":"AQW 52418/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-18","answerBy":"2026-10-05","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 being taken to increase the number of (i) consultant neurologists; (ii) epilepsy specialist nurses; and (iii) specialist neurology clinics.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052418%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499290","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499290"}},{"id":"499289","reference":"AQW 52417/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-18","answerBy":"2026-10-05","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 timetable for the implementation of the recommendations arising from the Regional Review of Neurology Services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052417%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499289","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499289"}},{"id":"499288","reference":"AQW 52416/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-18","answerBy":"2026-10-05","answered":"2026-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any funding sought by the Housing Executive for (a) the Strategic Prevention Programme; and (b) Community Prevention and Initiatives or any predecessor or successor programme performing the same function; and (ii) the level of funding allocated to each programme, in each of the last five financial years.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:\n\n“The tables below show the funding sought and the funding allocated to the Strategic Prevention Programme and Community Prevention in each of the last five financial years.”\n\nHomeless Strategic Prevention\t£k’s\n2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\t2024/25\t2025/26\ni) Funding Sought\t1,597\t3,353\t3,477\t4,490\t3,535\nii) Funding Allocated\t1,352\t1,035\t376\t317\t2,779\n\nHomeless Community Prevention\t£k’s\n2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\t2024/25\t2025/26\ni) Funding Sought\t4,305\t4,140\t4,983\t4,174\t4,342\nii) Funding Allocated\t4,890\t4,180\t3,964\t4,131\t4,342","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:
“The tables below show the funding sought and the funding allocated to the Strategic Prevention Programme and Community Prevention in each of the last five financial years.”
| Homeless Strategic Prevention | £k’s | ||||
| 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 | 2025/26 | |
| i) Funding Sought | 1,597 | 3,353 | 3,477 | 4,490 | 3,535 |
| ii) Funding Allocated | 1,352 | 1,035 | 376 | 317 | 2,779 |
| Homeless Community Prevention | £k’s | ||||
| 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 | 2025/26 | |
| i) Funding Sought | 4,305 | 4,140 | 4,983 | 4,174 | 4,342 |
| ii) Funding Allocated | 4,890 | 4,180 | 3,964 | 4,131 | 4,342 |
I am bringing forward a Statutory Rule to introduce a closed season each year within Strangford Lough, during which the taking of periwinkles by any means from January to April inclusive, would be prohibited.
The purpose of this Statutory Rule is to conserve periwinkle populations by prohibiting their harvesting during the peak spawning season. In March 2022 the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) published “Strangford Lough Periwinkle Study” which recommended a closed season during the months of January to April to best protect the spawning stock.
In 2022 a public consultation outlined a range of potential management measures to protect intertidal shellfish stocks from unsustainable exploitation and to provide protection for any habitats and species that could be damaged or disturbed by intertidal shellfish gathering.
The purpose of the proposed closure season is to balance environmental protection and the economic needs of harvesters and processors who rely on the periwinkle resources each season in the Lough.
I have submitted a draft of a Statutory Rule and Explanatory Memorandum, with an SL1 to the AERA Committee to enable it to carry out its scrutiny function in accordance with the Guidance on Delegated Legislation and Submitting Proposals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%204004%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501136","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501136"}},{"id":"498817","reference":"AQW 52164/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-16","answerBy":"2026-10-01","answered":"2026-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the Housing Executive’s funding bid for £50 million for the Homelessness Services in 2026-2027, as per their projected expenditure, including the amount bid for (a) temporary accommodation spending; (b) the Strategic Prevention Programme; (c) Community Prevention and Initiatives; and (ii) whether any assessment has been made of the impact on homelessness services if funding for 2026-2027 is provided at a level below that sought by the Housing Executive in its funding bid.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:\n\n“The table below provides details of the 2026/27 NIHE Homelessness budget bid submitted to DfC for funding consideration.\n\nBudget Bid (£k’s)\nRevenue Expenditure\na) Temporary Accommodation and Associated Costs\t31,352\nb) Strategic Prevention Programme\t5,307\nc) Community Prevention and Support Initiatives\t4,148\nTotal Revenue Requirement\t40,807\nCapital Spend\na) Capital Leases for Temporary Accommodation\t9,195\nTotal Capital Requirement\t9,195\nTotal NIHE Homelessness Requirement\t50,002\n\nThe Housing Executive recognises the potential impacts of being unable to fund services in the event of a significant funding shortfall. This has been outlined in previous Equality Impact Assessment responses, on previous budgets, which noted the range of support provided by projects supported by homelessness funding.\n\nWe have previously noted, and this remains applicable, that these projects range from upstream prevention services to day centres and outreach support, providing a vital service to those experiencing chronic homelessness and rough sleeping, often preventing individuals from engaging with the health and justice systems.\n\nIn the event of a significant funding shortfall, the Housing Executive would expect to see more visible signs of homelessness across cities and towns.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:
“The table below provides details of the 2026/27 NIHE Homelessness budget bid submitted to DfC for funding consideration.
| Budget Bid (£k’s) | |
| Revenue Expenditure | |
| a) Temporary Accommodation and Associated Costs | 31,352 |
| b) Strategic Prevention Programme | 5,307 |
| c) Community Prevention and Support Initiatives | 4,148 |
| Total Revenue Requirement | 40,807 |
| Capital Spend | |
| a) Capital Leases for Temporary Accommodation | 9,195 |
| Total Capital Requirement | 9,195 |
| Total NIHE Homelessness Requirement | 50,002 |
The Housing Executive recognises the potential impacts of being unable to fund services in the event of a significant funding shortfall. This has been outlined in previous Equality Impact Assessment responses, on previous budgets, which noted the range of support provided by projects supported by homelessness funding.
We have previously noted, and this remains applicable, that these projects range from upstream prevention services to day centres and outreach support, providing a vital service to those experiencing chronic homelessness and rough sleeping, often preventing individuals from engaging with the health and justice systems.
In the event of a significant funding shortfall, the Housing Executive would expect to see more visible signs of homelessness across cities and towns.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052164%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498817"}},{"id":"498816","reference":"AQW 52163/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-16","answerBy":"2026-10-01","answered":"2026-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the level of funding sought by the Housing Executive for the Supporting People Programme; and (ii) the level of funding allocated, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:\n\nPlease see the table below which provides the level of funding sought by the Housing Executive for the Supporting People programme in each of the last 5 years.\n\nYear\tFunding Sought (£k)\n2026-27\t92,446\n2025-26\t90,163\n2024-25\t85,272\n2023-24\t85,789\n2022-23\t76,462\n\nThe table below shows the level of funding allocated to the Supporting People Programme, in each of the last 5 years.\n\nYear\tFunding Allocated (£k)\n2026-27\t61,272\n2025-26\t83,712\n2024-25\t79,092\n2023-24\t72,866\n2022-23\t75,624\n\nPlease Note:\n\nThe funding allocated figure for 2026-27 represents figures from April to December 2026.\n\nThe 2022/23 figure excludes £546k of SP COVID-19 funding. This funding was provided separately by the Department specifically to support COVID-related expenditure and did not form part of the programme’s normal funding allocation.\n\nThe funding allocated for the 2022/23 – 2025/26 period represents the final allocation in that year at the year-end position.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:
Please see the table below which provides the level of funding sought by the Housing Executive for the Supporting People programme in each of the last 5 years.
| Year | Funding Sought (£k) |
| 2026-27 | 92,446 |
| 2025-26 | 90,163 |
| 2024-25 | 85,272 |
| 2023-24 | 85,789 |
| 2022-23 | 76,462 |
The table below shows the level of funding allocated to the Supporting People Programme, in each of the last 5 years.
| Year | Funding Allocated (£k) |
| 2026-27 | 61,272 |
| 2025-26 | 83,712 |
| 2024-25 | 79,092 |
| 2023-24 | 72,866 |
| 2022-23 | 75,624 |
Please Note:
The funding allocated figure for 2026-27 represents figures from April to December 2026.
The 2022/23 figure excludes £546k of SP COVID-19 funding. This funding was provided separately by the Department specifically to support COVID-related expenditure and did not form part of the programme’s normal funding allocation.
The funding allocated for the 2022/23 – 2025/26 period represents the final allocation in that year at the year-end position.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052163%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498816","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498816"}},{"id":"498815","reference":"AQW 52162/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-16","answerBy":"2026-10-01","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the establishment of the Independent Reconfiguration Committee will result in any changes to the responsibilities, staffing, or functions of the Strategic Planning and Performance Group in relation to service planning, service reconfiguration, stakeholder engagement, public consultation, and scrutiny of the evidence supporting service-change proposals.","answerText":"The Independent Reconfiguration Committee was announced in response to findings from the “Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes” public consultation which highlighted a need to rebuild public confidence in the way major service decisions are made and communicated.\n\nThe Independent Reconfiguration Committee will not replace or negate the need for due process in relation to service changes in line with the Department’s Guidance of the Change and Withdrawal of Services. It is not a new layer of bureaucracy through which every service change must pass. It does not duplicate, overlap or impose any change on the existing functions of any of our HSC bodies, nor is it intended to address any perceived deficiency in the current arrangements. Instead, it will provide additional assurance and support public confidence in decision making.\n\nThe IRC will be a small, independent and responsive source of expert advice which I can call upon, but only where I consider that a major or controversial proposal for permanent service change requires additional scrutiny.\n\nThe Committee will advise me, but ultimately it will be my responsibility to make any necessary decision.","answerHtml":"The Independent Reconfiguration Committee was announced in response to findings from the “Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes” public consultation which highlighted a need to rebuild public confidence in the way major service decisions are made and communicated.
The Independent Reconfiguration Committee will not replace or negate the need for due process in relation to service changes in line with the Department’s Guidance of the Change and Withdrawal of Services. It is not a new layer of bureaucracy through which every service change must pass. It does not duplicate, overlap or impose any change on the existing functions of any of our HSC bodies, nor is it intended to address any perceived deficiency in the current arrangements. Instead, it will provide additional assurance and support public confidence in decision making.
The IRC will be a small, independent and responsive source of expert advice which I can call upon, but only where I consider that a major or controversial proposal for permanent service change requires additional scrutiny.
The Committee will advise me, but ultimately it will be my responsibility to make any necessary decision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052162%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498815","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498815"}},{"id":"498814","reference":"AQW 52161/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-16","answerBy":"2026-10-01","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any gaps in the existing functions of his Department, the Strategic Planning and Performance Group, and Health and Social Care NI bodies that led to the establishment of the Independent Reconfiguration Committee.","answerText":"The Independent Reconfiguration Committee was announced in response to findings from the “Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes” public consultation which highlighted a need to rebuild public confidence in the way major service decisions are made and communicated.\n\nThe Independent Reconfiguration Committee will not replace or negate the need for due process in relation to service changes in line with the Department’s Guidance of the Change and Withdrawal of Services. It is not a new layer of bureaucracy through which every service change must pass. It does not duplicate, overlap or impose any change on the existing functions of any of our HSC bodies, nor is it intended to address any perceived deficiency in the current arrangements. Instead, it will provide additional assurance and support public confidence in decision making.\n\nThe IRC will be a small, independent and responsive source of expert advice which I can call upon, but only where I consider that a major or controversial proposal for permanent service change requires additional scrutiny.\n\nThe Committee will advise me, but ultimately it will be my responsibility to make any necessary decision.","answerHtml":"The Independent Reconfiguration Committee was announced in response to findings from the “Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes” public consultation which highlighted a need to rebuild public confidence in the way major service decisions are made and communicated.
The Independent Reconfiguration Committee will not replace or negate the need for due process in relation to service changes in line with the Department’s Guidance of the Change and Withdrawal of Services. It is not a new layer of bureaucracy through which every service change must pass. It does not duplicate, overlap or impose any change on the existing functions of any of our HSC bodies, nor is it intended to address any perceived deficiency in the current arrangements. Instead, it will provide additional assurance and support public confidence in decision making.
The IRC will be a small, independent and responsive source of expert advice which I can call upon, but only where I consider that a major or controversial proposal for permanent service change requires additional scrutiny.
The Committee will advise me, but ultimately it will be my responsibility to make any necessary decision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052161%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498814","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498814"}},{"id":"498813","reference":"AQW 52160/22-27","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 whether any assessment was undertaken by his Department of any potential overlap between the functions of the Independent Reconfiguration Committee and those of the Strategic Planning and Performance Group, or other parts of his Department.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052160%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498813","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498813"}},{"id":"498463","reference":"AQW 52017/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-15","answerBy":"2026-09-30","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the Housing Executive’s funding bid for £92.45 million for the Supporting People programme in 2026-2027, as per their projected expenditure, broken down by thematic area; (ii) any new pipeline schemes included within the bid, including the (a) thematic area; (b) geographical location; (c) proposed annual cost; (d) anticipated number of service users; and (e) funding sought for each scheme; (iii) whether any assessment has been made of the impact on Supporting People services if funding for 2026-2027 is provided at a level below that sought by the Housing Executive.","answerText":"A number of these issues are operational matters for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:\n\n“(i) The table below provides a breakdown of the Housing Executive’s 2026-27 Supporting People funding bid by thematic area, together with externally funded programme funding and the balance of discretionary funding. The figures total £92.446m, rounded up to £92.45m.\n\nThematic Area\tSP Grant\tSP Pipeline\tExternally Funded Programme\tOther\tTotal\n£k's\t£k's\t£k's\t£k's\t£k's\nDisability\t35,307\t250\t73\t-\t35,630\nHomelessness\t37,905\t250\t-\t-\t38,155\nOlder People\t10,600\t250\t-\t-\t10,850\nYoung People\t7,011\t250\t-\t-\t7,261\nBalance of Discretionary Funding\t-\t-\t-\t550\t550\nTotal\t90,823\t1,000\t73\t550\t92,446”\n\nI can confirm that the Balance of Discretionary Funding (£550k) is a balancing figure comprising:\n\nRecoupments: (£400k)\n\nStrategic Needs Assessment Funding Bid: £500k, to address gaps identified through the Strategic Needs Assessment\n\nProvider Investment Fund Bid: £450k\n\nThis results in a net discretionary funding requirement of £550k. The £73k is no longer required.\n\n(ii) “The proposed £1m pipeline provision has been intentionally positioned to align with the findings of the Strategic Needs Assessment (SNA), which is currently being developed and is expected to be published in Autumn 2026 (Q3 2026/27). The SNA will assess current and future housing-related support need and demand across Northern Ireland and will provide an evidence base to inform future service planning and the development of Supporting People services. The outcome of this work will play a key role in shaping decisions on the thematic focus, geographical distribution, scale and resource requirements of future pipeline provision, including the proposed £1m investment.\n\n(iii) While a detailed impact assessment has not been undertaken on a service-by-service basis, consideration has been given at a programme level to the potential implications of funding being provided below that sought by the Housing Executive. The extent and nature of any impact would depend on the level of funding available and a range of factors, including provider capacity, financial resilience and service delivery decisions taken by individual provider organisations. In particular, providers' ability to absorb funding pressures, together with decisions taken by independent provider Boards, may influence whether services are reduced, reconfigured or withdrawn. Consequently, the actual impact and associated costs may vary significantly across providers and service types.”\n\nMy Department’s assessment is focused on the need to consider, at programme level, the risks to services and the risk of service withdrawal, to avert loss of services where there is evidence of continuing need. Relevant to this consideration is the Housing Executive’s assessment and advice, including its response set out above.","answerHtml":"A number of these issues are operational matters for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:
“(i) The table below provides a breakdown of the Housing Executive’s 2026-27 Supporting People funding bid by thematic area, together with externally funded programme funding and the balance of discretionary funding. The figures total £92.446m, rounded up to £92.45m.
| Thematic Area | SP Grant | SP Pipeline | Externally Funded Programme | Other | Total |
| £k's | £k's | £k's | £k's | £k's | |
| Disability | 35,307 | 250 | 73 | - | 35,630 |
| Homelessness | 37,905 | 250 | - | - | 38,155 |
| Older People | 10,600 | 250 | - | - | 10,850 |
| Young People | 7,011 | 250 | - | - | 7,261 |
| Balance of Discretionary Funding | - | - | - | 550 | 550 |
| Total | 90,823 | 1,000 | 73 | 550 | 92,446” |
I can confirm that the Balance of Discretionary Funding (£550k) is a balancing figure comprising:
Recoupments: (£400k)
Strategic Needs Assessment Funding Bid: £500k, to address gaps identified through the Strategic Needs Assessment
Provider Investment Fund Bid: £450k
This results in a net discretionary funding requirement of £550k. The £73k is no longer required.
(ii) “The proposed £1m pipeline provision has been intentionally positioned to align with the findings of the Strategic Needs Assessment (SNA), which is currently being developed and is expected to be published in Autumn 2026 (Q3 2026/27). The SNA will assess current and future housing-related support need and demand across Northern Ireland and will provide an evidence base to inform future service planning and the development of Supporting People services. The outcome of this work will play a key role in shaping decisions on the thematic focus, geographical distribution, scale and resource requirements of future pipeline provision, including the proposed £1m investment.
(iii) While a detailed impact assessment has not been undertaken on a service-by-service basis, consideration has been given at a programme level to the potential implications of funding being provided below that sought by the Housing Executive. The extent and nature of any impact would depend on the level of funding available and a range of factors, including provider capacity, financial resilience and service delivery decisions taken by individual provider organisations. In particular, providers' ability to absorb funding pressures, together with decisions taken by independent provider Boards, may influence whether services are reduced, reconfigured or withdrawn. Consequently, the actual impact and associated costs may vary significantly across providers and service types.”
My Department’s assessment is focused on the need to consider, at programme level, the risks to services and the risk of service withdrawal, to avert loss of services where there is evidence of continuing need. Relevant to this consideration is the Housing Executive’s assessment and advice, including its response set out above.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052017%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498463","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498463"}},{"id":"498462","reference":"AQW 52016/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-15","answerBy":"2026-09-30","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the establishment of the Independent Reconfiguration Committee will result in any changes to the responsibilities, staffing, or functions of the Strategic Planning and Performance Group in relation to service planning, service reconfiguration, stakeholder engagement, public consultation, and scrutiny of the evidence supporting service-change proposals.","answerText":"The Independent Reconfiguration Committee was announced in response to findings from the “Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes” public consultation which highlighted a need to rebuild public confidence in the way major service decisions are made and communicated.\n\nThe Independent Reconfiguration Committee will not replace or negate the need for due process in relation to service changes in line with the Department’s Guidance of the Change and Withdrawal of Services. It is not a new layer of bureaucracy through which every service change must pass. It does not duplicate, overlap or impose any change on the existing functions of any of our HSC bodies, nor is it intended to address any perceived deficiency in the current arrangements. Instead, it will provide additional assurance and support public confidence in decision making.\n\nThe IRC will be a small, independent and responsive source of expert advice which I can call upon, but only where I consider that a major or controversial proposal for permanent service change requires additional scrutiny.\n\nThe Committee will advise me, but ultimately it will be my responsibility to make any necessary decision.","answerHtml":"The Independent Reconfiguration Committee was announced in response to findings from the “Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes” public consultation which highlighted a need to rebuild public confidence in the way major service decisions are made and communicated.
The Independent Reconfiguration Committee will not replace or negate the need for due process in relation to service changes in line with the Department’s Guidance of the Change and Withdrawal of Services. It is not a new layer of bureaucracy through which every service change must pass. It does not duplicate, overlap or impose any change on the existing functions of any of our HSC bodies, nor is it intended to address any perceived deficiency in the current arrangements. Instead, it will provide additional assurance and support public confidence in decision making.
The IRC will be a small, independent and responsive source of expert advice which I can call upon, but only where I consider that a major or controversial proposal for permanent service change requires additional scrutiny.
The Committee will advise me, but ultimately it will be my responsibility to make any necessary decision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052016%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498462","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498462"}},{"id":"498461","reference":"AQW 52015/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-15","answerBy":"2026-09-30","answered":"2026-10-02","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 undertaken of any potential overlap between the functions of the Independent Reconfiguration Committee and those of the Strategic Planning and Performance Group, or any other parts of his Department.","answerText":"The Independent Reconfiguration Committee was announced in response to findings from the “Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes” public consultation which highlighted a need to rebuild public confidence in the way major service decisions are made and communicated.\n\nThe Independent Reconfiguration Committee will not replace or negate the need for due process in relation to service changes in line with the Department’s Guidance of the Change and Withdrawal of Services. It is not a new layer of bureaucracy through which every service change must pass. It does not duplicate, overlap or impose any change on the existing functions of any of our HSC bodies, nor is it intended to address any perceived deficiency in the current arrangements. Instead, it will provide additional assurance and support public confidence in decision making.\n\nThe IRC will be a small, independent and responsive source of expert advice which I can call upon, but only where I consider that a major or controversial proposal for permanent service change requires additional scrutiny.\n\nThe Committee will advise me, but ultimately it will be my responsibility to make any necessary decision.","answerHtml":"The Independent Reconfiguration Committee was announced in response to findings from the “Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes” public consultation which highlighted a need to rebuild public confidence in the way major service decisions are made and communicated.
The Independent Reconfiguration Committee will not replace or negate the need for due process in relation to service changes in line with the Department’s Guidance of the Change and Withdrawal of Services. It is not a new layer of bureaucracy through which every service change must pass. It does not duplicate, overlap or impose any change on the existing functions of any of our HSC bodies, nor is it intended to address any perceived deficiency in the current arrangements. Instead, it will provide additional assurance and support public confidence in decision making.
The IRC will be a small, independent and responsive source of expert advice which I can call upon, but only where I consider that a major or controversial proposal for permanent service change requires additional scrutiny.
The Committee will advise me, but ultimately it will be my responsibility to make any necessary decision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052015%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498461","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498461"}},{"id":"498460","reference":"AQW 52014/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-15","answerBy":"2026-09-30","answered":"2026-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department has made any assessment of funding pressures affecting homelessness services, including the impact on (i) service capacity; (ii) waiting times; (iii) temporary accommodation use; and (iv) people (a) at risk of; and (b) experiencing, homelessness.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive recognises the potential impacts of being unable to fund services in the event of a significant funding shortfall. This has been outlined in previous Equality Impact Assessment responses on earlier budgets, which highlighted the range of support provided by projects funded through homelessness funding.\n\nAs previously noted, and still applicable, these projects range from upstream prevention services to day centres and outreach support, providing a vital service to those experiencing chronic homelessness and rough sleeping, often preventing individuals from engaging with the health and justice systems. This could leave thousands of people experiencing homelessness without services to enable them to resolve their homelessness.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive recognises the potential impacts of being unable to fund services in the event of a significant funding shortfall. This has been outlined in previous Equality Impact Assessment responses on earlier budgets, which highlighted the range of support provided by projects funded through homelessness funding.
As previously noted, and still applicable, these projects range from upstream prevention services to day centres and outreach support, providing a vital service to those experiencing chronic homelessness and rough sleeping, often preventing individuals from engaging with the health and justice systems. This could leave thousands of people experiencing homelessness without services to enable them to resolve their homelessness.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052014%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498460","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498460"}},{"id":"498459","reference":"AQW 52013/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-15","answerBy":"2026-09-30","answered":"2026-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether organisations who provide additional bed spaces when the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol is triggered are remunerated for doing so.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:\n\n‘Remuneration will vary depending on the nature of any additional bed spaces ranging from additional emergency congregate crash provision, for which additional staffing resources are required, and therefore remuneration is provided, to short-term additional capacity within existing services.\n\nFor short-term additional capacity within existing services, the provision of a bed space while a SWEP is implemented has been facilitated on a short-term basis without any additional staffing resource requirement and therefore remuneration has not been required.\n\nThe Housing Executive recognises the valuable input of all partner agencies when a SWEP is implemented and upon any additional resourcing requirement being identified, will always work with providers to meet such asks.’","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:
‘Remuneration will vary depending on the nature of any additional bed spaces ranging from additional emergency congregate crash provision, for which additional staffing resources are required, and therefore remuneration is provided, to short-term additional capacity within existing services.
For short-term additional capacity within existing services, the provision of a bed space while a SWEP is implemented has been facilitated on a short-term basis without any additional staffing resource requirement and therefore remuneration has not been required.
The Housing Executive recognises the valuable input of all partner agencies when a SWEP is implemented and upon any additional resourcing requirement being identified, will always work with providers to meet such asks.’
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052013%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498459","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498459"}},{"id":"498204","reference":"AQW 51881/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-14","answerBy":"2026-09-29","answered":"2026-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether any assessment has been made of whether arrangements are in place to ensure that if the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol is triggered this winter, every person at risk from cold weather conditions will be able to access accommodation.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:\n\n“In line with the approach for the past number of years, the Housing Executive intends to implement Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) arrangements over the coming autumn/winter period and there is ongoing engagement with a range of providers to ensure availability of accommodation, to meet both our statutory duties, as outlined in the Housing (NI) Order 1988 and non-statutory duties such as SWEP.\n\nThe Housing Executive recognises the valued input of the homelessness sector in facilitating a SWEP and there will be regular engagement with partner agencies across the autumn/winter period to identify and address any challenges associated with the delivery of the Protocol, at the earliest possible opportunity, to ensure our shared objective of eradicating risk for rough sleepers during periods of severe weather is achieved.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:
“In line with the approach for the past number of years, the Housing Executive intends to implement Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) arrangements over the coming autumn/winter period and there is ongoing engagement with a range of providers to ensure availability of accommodation, to meet both our statutory duties, as outlined in the Housing (NI) Order 1988 and non-statutory duties such as SWEP.
The Housing Executive recognises the valued input of the homelessness sector in facilitating a SWEP and there will be regular engagement with partner agencies across the autumn/winter period to identify and address any challenges associated with the delivery of the Protocol, at the earliest possible opportunity, to ensure our shared objective of eradicating risk for rough sleepers during periods of severe weather is achieved.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051881%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498204","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498204"}},{"id":"498203","reference":"AQW 51880/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-14","answerBy":"2026-09-29","answered":"2026-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how tenants in the private rented sector can access a starter pack when moving in to a home after living in temporary housing.","answerText":"While there is no starter pack available for tenants moving from temporary housing into a private rented sector home, a range of information and advice is available to support those taking up a private tenancy.\n\nLandlords in the private rented sector are required to provide tenants with a tenancy agreement and a tenancy information notice, which set out the key terms of the tenancy and the respective rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants.\n\nThe Department also funds Housing Rights to deliver independent advice and guidance to private tenants, including support on accessing and maintaining private rented tenancies.\n\nIn addition, a Discretionary Housing Payment may also be available to support tenants moving from temporary accommodation to the private rented sector.","answerHtml":"While there is no starter pack available for tenants moving from temporary housing into a private rented sector home, a range of information and advice is available to support those taking up a private tenancy.
Landlords in the private rented sector are required to provide tenants with a tenancy agreement and a tenancy information notice, which set out the key terms of the tenancy and the respective rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants.
The Department also funds Housing Rights to deliver independent advice and guidance to private tenants, including support on accessing and maintaining private rented tenancies.
In addition, a Discretionary Housing Payment may also be available to support tenants moving from temporary accommodation to the private rented sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051880%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498203","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498203"}},{"id":"498202","reference":"AQW 51879/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-14","answerBy":"2026-09-29","answered":"2026-09-21","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) organisations; and (ii) individuals, consulted with as part of the consideration of the review of homelessness legislation.","answerText":"As part of preparatory work to inform the development of a Homelessness Commission, including options for changes to homelessness legislation, Departmental officials have engaged with a number of organisations and subject matter experts.\n\nThe organisations and individuals consulted to date are:\n\nThe Northern Ireland Housing Executive\n\nHousing Rights;\n\nHomeless Connect;\n\nThe Centre for Homelessness Impact; and\n\nProfessor Suzanne Fitzpatrick.\n\nThe Department will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders as arrangements for the Commission are developed.","answerHtml":"As part of preparatory work to inform the development of a Homelessness Commission, including options for changes to homelessness legislation, Departmental officials have engaged with a number of organisations and subject matter experts.
The organisations and individuals consulted to date are:
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive
Housing Rights;
Homeless Connect;
The Centre for Homelessness Impact; and
Professor Suzanne Fitzpatrick.
The Department will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders as arrangements for the Commission are developed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051879%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498202","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498202"}},{"id":"498201","reference":"AQW 51878/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-14","answerBy":"2026-09-29","answered":"2026-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail a timeline for his review of homelessness legislation, including (i) when officials started the review; (ii) dates of meetings with consultees; and (iii) the date when the report and outcomes are expected to be made public.","answerText":"I agreed in principle in August 2026 to proposals for a Homelessness Commission. These proposals evolved from work that commenced following publication of the Public Accounts Committee Report in February 2026 to consider options for the scope, structure, resourcing and governance arrangements for a review of homelessness legislation, reflecting the need for wider system change to support legislative reform.\n\nAs part of this preparatory work, my officials have engaged with a range of organisations and experts to inform this work. Dates of these meetings were:\n\n26 March 2026\n\n4 June 2026,\n\n6, 7, 8 and 28 July 2026,\n\n10, 14, 20, and 24 August 2026\n\n1 and 8 September 2026\n\nAs the scope and arrangements for the Commission have not yet been finalised, I have not yet decided a date for publication of any report or outcomes.","answerHtml":"I agreed in principle in August 2026 to proposals for a Homelessness Commission. These proposals evolved from work that commenced following publication of the Public Accounts Committee Report in February 2026 to consider options for the scope, structure, resourcing and governance arrangements for a review of homelessness legislation, reflecting the need for wider system change to support legislative reform.
As part of this preparatory work, my officials have engaged with a range of organisations and experts to inform this work. Dates of these meetings were:
26 March 2026
4 June 2026,
6, 7, 8 and 28 July 2026,
10, 14, 20, and 24 August 2026
1 and 8 September 2026
As the scope and arrangements for the Commission have not yet been finalised, I have not yet decided a date for publication of any report or outcomes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051878%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498201","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498201"}},{"id":"498200","reference":"AQW 51877/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-14","answerBy":"2026-09-29","answered":"2026-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will provide a copy of the terms and conditions for the Homelessness Commission, which was announced at the Housing Rights event on Monday 14 September 2026, in Parliament Buildings.","answerText":"The Terms of Reference for the Homelessness Commission have been drafted and are in the process of being agreed. As such, it would not be appropriate to share them at this stage.\n\nOnce the Terms of Reference have been finalised and an Executive mandate has been sought, the details of the Commission's remit, membership and operating arrangements will be made available.","answerHtml":"The Terms of Reference for the Homelessness Commission have been drafted and are in the process of being agreed. As such, it would not be appropriate to share them at this stage.
Once the Terms of Reference have been finalised and an Executive mandate has been sought, the details of the Commission's remit, membership and operating arrangements will be made available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051877%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498200","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498200"}},{"id":"497992","reference":"AQW 51750/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-11","answerBy":"2026-09-28","answered":null,"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 review the eligibility rules governing health service optical vouchers for children requiring myopia management lenses.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051750%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497992"}},{"id":"497991","reference":"AQW 51749/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-11","answerBy":"2026-09-28","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any specific gap in the existing functions of his Department, the Strategic Planning and Performance Group, and Health and Social Care bodies led to the establishment of the Independent Reconfiguration Committee.","answerText":"The Independent Reconfiguration Committee was announced in response to findings from the “Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes” public consultation which highlighted a need to rebuild public confidence in the way major service decisions are made and communicated.\n\nThe Independent Reconfiguration Committee will not replace or negate the need for due process in relation to service changes in line with the Department’s Guidance of the Change and Withdrawal of Services. It is not a new layer of bureaucracy through which every service change must pass. It does not duplicate, overlap or impose any change on the existing functions of any of our HSC bodies, nor is it intended to address any perceived deficiency in the current arrangements. Instead, it will provide additional assurance and support public confidence in decision making.\n\nThe IRC will be a small, independent and responsive source of expert advice which I can call upon, but only where I consider that a major or controversial proposal for permanent service change requires additional scrutiny.\n\nThe Committee will advise me, but ultimately it will be my responsibility to make any necessary decision.","answerHtml":"The Independent Reconfiguration Committee was announced in response to findings from the “Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes” public consultation which highlighted a need to rebuild public confidence in the way major service decisions are made and communicated.
The Independent Reconfiguration Committee will not replace or negate the need for due process in relation to service changes in line with the Department’s Guidance of the Change and Withdrawal of Services. It is not a new layer of bureaucracy through which every service change must pass. It does not duplicate, overlap or impose any change on the existing functions of any of our HSC bodies, nor is it intended to address any perceived deficiency in the current arrangements. Instead, it will provide additional assurance and support public confidence in decision making.
The IRC will be a small, independent and responsive source of expert advice which I can call upon, but only where I consider that a major or controversial proposal for permanent service change requires additional scrutiny.
The Committee will advise me, but ultimately it will be my responsibility to make any necessary decision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051749%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497991"}},{"id":"497990","reference":"AQW 51748/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-11","answerBy":"2026-09-28","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any estimate has been made of the financial impact on families of children requiring myopia management lenses that are not eligible for support through the health service optical voucher scheme.","answerText":"General Ophthalmic Services (GOS), does provide help in the form of an allowance towards spectacles or contact lenses for all children under the age of 16 who are myopic and require a correction to improve their vision. This help towards health care costs is comparable to that provided in England and other parts of the UK.\n\nFunding of treatments without robust evidence-informed research confirming safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness is not considered an appropriate use of health service budgets. Therefore, novel interventions for myopia control are not currently considered eligible for provision of help with costs. Such interventions are currently a privately funded purchase only in Northern Ireland and costs may vary depending on where the appliance is purchased. Available evidence to date does not indicate that any child is required to avail of myopia-control lenses and conventional lenses can be prescribed and dispensed to correct their short sight.\n\nDecisions regarding the commissioning of new services or treatments must be informed by robust clinical evidence, assessments of cost-effectiveness, and consideration of available resources across the health and social care system.\n\nMy Department continues to monitor developments in clinical evidence and practice relating to myopia management and will consider any future proposals for service development in line with established commissioning and prioritisation processes.","answerHtml":"General Ophthalmic Services (GOS), does provide help in the form of an allowance towards spectacles or contact lenses for all children under the age of 16 who are myopic and require a correction to improve their vision. This help towards health care costs is comparable to that provided in England and other parts of the UK.
Funding of treatments without robust evidence-informed research confirming safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness is not considered an appropriate use of health service budgets. Therefore, novel interventions for myopia control are not currently considered eligible for provision of help with costs. Such interventions are currently a privately funded purchase only in Northern Ireland and costs may vary depending on where the appliance is purchased. Available evidence to date does not indicate that any child is required to avail of myopia-control lenses and conventional lenses can be prescribed and dispensed to correct their short sight.
Decisions regarding the commissioning of new services or treatments must be informed by robust clinical evidence, assessments of cost-effectiveness, and consideration of available resources across the health and social care system.
My Department continues to monitor developments in clinical evidence and practice relating to myopia management and will consider any future proposals for service development in line with established commissioning and prioritisation processes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051748%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497990"}},{"id":"497989","reference":"AQW 51747/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-11","answerBy":"2026-09-28","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 has conducted any review of arrangements in other UK jurisdictions that allow the value of children's health service optical vouchers to be offset against the cost of myopia management lenses.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051747%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497989","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497989"}},{"id":"497988","reference":"AQW 51746/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-11","answerBy":"2026-09-28","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 discussions his Department has had with representative bodies of the optical sector in relation to the use of health service optical vouchers for myopia management treatments.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051746%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497988","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497988"}},{"id":"497805","reference":"AQW 51607/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-25","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 criteria that his Department uses when determining whether optical treatments are eligible for support through the health service optical voucher scheme.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051607%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497805","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497805"}},{"id":"497804","reference":"AQW 51606/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-25","answered":"2026-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether health service optical vouchers can be used as a contribution towards the cost of myopia management lenses prescribed for children.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland, while standard corrective lenses for myopia are covered under the General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) voucher scheme, specialised myopia control lenses—such as those designed to slow the progression of myopia—are not currently eligible for GOS funding and can only be provided in a private capacity.\n\nWhile there is emerging evidence that some products may help to slow the progression of myopia, such interventions are not routinely commissioned as part of General Ophthalmic Services in Northern Ireland. This reflects current limitations in the evidence base, including a lack of robust long-term data and clear clinical criteria to support routine use. Further research is therefore necessary before these interventions can be considered for Health Service funding.\n\nFunding treatments without strong evidence demonstrating safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness would not represent an appropriate use of health service resources. For this reason, myopia control interventions are not currently considered eligible for public funding and are available only on a private basis in Northern Ireland, with costs varying across the region\n\nOfficials from the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) within my Department are engaging with local clinical academic researchers and health economists to develop a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) grant application. This work is intended to build an evidence base around the safety, efficacy and outcome measures associated with myopia control interventions, and the findings will help inform future clinical and policy decisions.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland, while standard corrective lenses for myopia are covered under the General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) voucher scheme, specialised myopia control lenses—such as those designed to slow the progression of myopia—are not currently eligible for GOS funding and can only be provided in a private capacity.
While there is emerging evidence that some products may help to slow the progression of myopia, such interventions are not routinely commissioned as part of General Ophthalmic Services in Northern Ireland. This reflects current limitations in the evidence base, including a lack of robust long-term data and clear clinical criteria to support routine use. Further research is therefore necessary before these interventions can be considered for Health Service funding.
Funding treatments without strong evidence demonstrating safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness would not represent an appropriate use of health service resources. For this reason, myopia control interventions are not currently considered eligible for public funding and are available only on a private basis in Northern Ireland, with costs varying across the region
Officials from the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) within my Department are engaging with local clinical academic researchers and health economists to develop a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) grant application. This work is intended to build an evidence base around the safety, efficacy and outcome measures associated with myopia control interventions, and the findings will help inform future clinical and policy decisions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051606%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497804","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497804"}},{"id":"497803","reference":"AQW 51605/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-25","answered":"2026-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the evidence base in relation to the effectiveness of myopia management lenses in slowing the progression of myopia in children.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland, while standard corrective lenses for myopia are covered under the General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) voucher scheme, specialised myopia control lenses—such as those designed to slow the progression of myopia—are not currently eligible for GOS funding and can only be provided in a private capacity.\n\nWhile there is emerging evidence that some products may help to slow the progression of myopia, such interventions are not routinely commissioned as part of General Ophthalmic Services in Northern Ireland. This reflects current limitations in the evidence base, including a lack of robust long-term data and clear clinical criteria to support routine use. Further research is therefore necessary before these interventions can be considered for Health Service funding.\n\nFunding treatments without strong evidence demonstrating safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness would not represent an appropriate use of health service resources. For this reason, myopia control interventions are not currently considered eligible for public funding and are available only on a private basis in Northern Ireland, with costs varying across the region\n\nOfficials from the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) within my Department are engaging with local clinical academic researchers and health economists to develop a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) grant application. This work is intended to build an evidence base around the safety, efficacy and outcome measures associated with myopia control interventions, and the findings will help inform future clinical and policy decisions.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland, while standard corrective lenses for myopia are covered under the General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) voucher scheme, specialised myopia control lenses—such as those designed to slow the progression of myopia—are not currently eligible for GOS funding and can only be provided in a private capacity.
While there is emerging evidence that some products may help to slow the progression of myopia, such interventions are not routinely commissioned as part of General Ophthalmic Services in Northern Ireland. This reflects current limitations in the evidence base, including a lack of robust long-term data and clear clinical criteria to support routine use. Further research is therefore necessary before these interventions can be considered for Health Service funding.
Funding treatments without strong evidence demonstrating safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness would not represent an appropriate use of health service resources. For this reason, myopia control interventions are not currently considered eligible for public funding and are available only on a private basis in Northern Ireland, with costs varying across the region
Officials from the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) within my Department are engaging with local clinical academic researchers and health economists to develop a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) grant application. This work is intended to build an evidence base around the safety, efficacy and outcome measures associated with myopia control interventions, and the findings will help inform future clinical and policy decisions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051605%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497803"}},{"id":"497802","reference":"AQW 51604/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-25","answered":"2026-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any consideration has been given to permitting health service optical vouchers to be used as a contribution towards the cost of myopia management lenses.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland, while standard corrective lenses for myopia are covered under the General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) voucher scheme, specialised myopia control lenses—such as those designed to slow the progression of myopia—are not currently eligible for GOS funding and can only be provided in a private capacity.\n\nWhile there is emerging evidence that some products may help to slow the progression of myopia, such interventions are not routinely commissioned as part of General Ophthalmic Services in Northern Ireland. This reflects current limitations in the evidence base, including a lack of robust long-term data and clear clinical criteria to support routine use. Further research is therefore necessary before these interventions can be considered for Health Service funding.\n\nFunding treatments without strong evidence demonstrating safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness would not represent an appropriate use of health service resources. For this reason, myopia control interventions are not currently considered eligible for public funding and are available only on a private basis in Northern Ireland, with costs varying across the region\n\nOfficials from the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) within my Department are engaging with local clinical academic researchers and health economists to develop a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) grant application. This work is intended to build an evidence base around the safety, efficacy and outcome measures associated with myopia control interventions, and the findings will help inform future clinical and policy decisions.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland, while standard corrective lenses for myopia are covered under the General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) voucher scheme, specialised myopia control lenses—such as those designed to slow the progression of myopia—are not currently eligible for GOS funding and can only be provided in a private capacity.
While there is emerging evidence that some products may help to slow the progression of myopia, such interventions are not routinely commissioned as part of General Ophthalmic Services in Northern Ireland. This reflects current limitations in the evidence base, including a lack of robust long-term data and clear clinical criteria to support routine use. Further research is therefore necessary before these interventions can be considered for Health Service funding.
Funding treatments without strong evidence demonstrating safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness would not represent an appropriate use of health service resources. For this reason, myopia control interventions are not currently considered eligible for public funding and are available only on a private basis in Northern Ireland, with costs varying across the region
Officials from the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) within my Department are engaging with local clinical academic researchers and health economists to develop a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) grant application. This work is intended to build an evidence base around the safety, efficacy and outcome measures associated with myopia control interventions, and the findings will help inform future clinical and policy decisions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051604%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497802","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497802"}},{"id":"497801","reference":"AQW 51603/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-25","answered":"2026-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to detail when the loop system installed in Parliament Buildings will be updated to enable MLAs with digital hearing aids, prescribed and provided by local Health and Social Care Trusts, to be able to access assistive listening technology.","answerText":"The Chamber in Parliament Buildings is equipped with an induction loop system which provides assistive listening technology for users of compatible hearing aids, including many digital hearing aids where telecoil functionality is available and activated.\n\nIt was recently brought to the Assembly Commission's attention that some hearing aid users may be unable to access the induction loop system where telecoil functionality on their hearing aids is not available or has not been activated.\n\nAs a result, a Bluetooth assistive listening device has been purchased and will be trialled as a potential individual assistive solution for users who are unable to access the induction loop system through their hearing aids.\n\nThe existing induction loop system remains the most inclusive solution for a shared Chamber environment, enabling multiple users to access proceedings simultaneously without the need for individual device pairing.\n\nA recent accessibility review did not identify a requirement to upgrade the Chamber's assistive listening system. The Assembly Commission will continue to keep accessibility requirements under review.","answerHtml":"The Chamber in Parliament Buildings is equipped with an induction loop system which provides assistive listening technology for users of compatible hearing aids, including many digital hearing aids where telecoil functionality is available and activated.
It was recently brought to the Assembly Commission's attention that some hearing aid users may be unable to access the induction loop system where telecoil functionality on their hearing aids is not available or has not been activated.
As a result, a Bluetooth assistive listening device has been purchased and will be trialled as a potential individual assistive solution for users who are unable to access the induction loop system through their hearing aids.
The existing induction loop system remains the most inclusive solution for a shared Chamber environment, enabling multiple users to access proceedings simultaneously without the need for individual device pairing.
A recent accessibility review did not identify a requirement to upgrade the Chamber's assistive listening system. The Assembly Commission will continue to keep accessibility requirements under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051603%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497801","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497801"}},{"id":"497572","reference":"AQW 51460/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-09","answerBy":"2026-09-24","answered":"2026-09-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail when the guidance contained in the Sign Language Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 will be provided to all prescribed organisations.","answerText":"The Sign Language Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 (The Act) requires that prescribed organisations must be consulted when the guidance referred to in this question is being devised or reviewed. As such, the regulations prescribing such organisations must be in place before such as consultation can take place.\n\nPreliminary work on those regulations has begun. A formal consultation with those organisations which are proposed to be prescribed in those regulations will begin in the coming weeks. The Act requires that the regulations listing prescribed organisations are made under the affirmative resolution process.\n\nIt is only after such bodies are listed as prescribed organisations, that a formal consultation on the guidance, in accordance with section 5(3)(a) of the Act, can be undertaken.\n\nGiven the numbers of steps involved in the process, it is not possible at this point to provide a definitive timescale for the publication of the guidance referred to in the question.","answerHtml":"The Sign Language Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 (The Act) requires that prescribed organisations must be consulted when the guidance referred to in this question is being devised or reviewed. As such, the regulations prescribing such organisations must be in place before such as consultation can take place.
Preliminary work on those regulations has begun. A formal consultation with those organisations which are proposed to be prescribed in those regulations will begin in the coming weeks. The Act requires that the regulations listing prescribed organisations are made under the affirmative resolution process.
It is only after such bodies are listed as prescribed organisations, that a formal consultation on the guidance, in accordance with section 5(3)(a) of the Act, can be undertaken.
Given the numbers of steps involved in the process, it is not possible at this point to provide a definitive timescale for the publication of the guidance referred to in the question.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051460%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497572","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497572"}},{"id":"497571","reference":"AQW 51459/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-09","answerBy":"2026-09-24","answered":"2026-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any strategies (i) completed including the date they were published; and (ii) still in progress including when they will be published, during his tenure as Minister.","answerText":"A list of published strategies and those scheduled for publication before the end of the current Assembly mandate is provided in the table below.\n\nNAME OF STRATEGY\tSTATUS\tDATE PUBLISHED OR INDICATIVE DATE FOR PUBLICATION\nExecutive Housing Supply Strategy\tCompleted\t9 December 2024\nWarm Healthy Homes Strategy 2026-2036: A new Fuel Poverty Strategy for Northern Ireland\tCompleted\t5 February 2026\nSocial Housing Tenancy Fraud Strategy\tIn progress\tMarch 2027\nTenant Participation and Engagement Strategy\tIn progress\tMarch 2027\nDisability Strategy\tIn progress\tMarch 2027, subject to Executive approval.\nAnti-Poverty Strategy\tIn progress\tMarch 2027, subject to Executive approval.\nDisability and Work: A Strategy for Northern Ireland\tIn progress\tDecember 2026\n\nWork remains ongoing on a number of other strategies which do not have indicative dates at this stage.","answerHtml":"A list of published strategies and those scheduled for publication before the end of the current Assembly mandate is provided in the table below.
| NAME OF STRATEGY | STATUS | DATE PUBLISHED OR INDICATIVE DATE FOR PUBLICATION |
| Executive Housing Supply Strategy | Completed | 9 December 2024 |
| Warm Healthy Homes Strategy 2026-2036: A new Fuel Poverty Strategy for Northern Ireland | Completed | 5 February 2026 |
| Social Housing Tenancy Fraud Strategy | In progress | March 2027 |
| Tenant Participation and Engagement Strategy | In progress | March 2027 |
| Disability Strategy | In progress | March 2027, subject to Executive approval. |
| Anti-Poverty Strategy | In progress | March 2027, subject to Executive approval. |
| Disability and Work: A Strategy for Northern Ireland | In progress | December 2026 |
Work remains ongoing on a number of other strategies which do not have indicative dates at this stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051459%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497571","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497571"}},{"id":"497570","reference":"AQW 51458/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-09","answerBy":"2026-09-24","answered":"2026-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) when sign language classes for people under the age of 25, and their family and carers, will begin; and (ii) where these classes are to be held.","answerText":"The sign language classes for people under the age of 25, and their family and carers will commence on various dates in September 2026.The table below details where the classes are to be held, including when online where the participating families are from.\n\nOrganisation\tTitle of Course\tStart Date\tLocation\nNational Deaf Children’s Society\tFamily Signing Home\tSeptember 2026\tOnline courses- with referrals currently from Dromore, Enniskillen and Downpatrick\nBritish Deaf Association\tFamily Sign at Home\tSeptember 2026\tLurgan; Newtownabbey; Comber; Lisburn; Newtownabbey; Belfast; Crumlin; Derry; Newry\nAction Deaf Youth\tBSL for Deaf Children, Young People, Parents and Peers programme\tSeptember 2026\tBallyclare; Bangor; Belfast; Cookstown; Randalstown – other locations to be confirmed","answerHtml":"The sign language classes for people under the age of 25, and their family and carers will commence on various dates in September 2026.The table below details where the classes are to be held, including when online where the participating families are from.
| Organisation | Title of Course | Start Date | Location |
| National Deaf Children’s Society | Family Signing Home | September 2026 | Online courses- with referrals currently from Dromore, Enniskillen and Downpatrick |
| British Deaf Association | Family Sign at Home | September 2026 | Lurgan; Newtownabbey; Comber; Lisburn; Newtownabbey; Belfast; Crumlin; Derry; Newry |
| Action Deaf Youth | BSL for Deaf Children, Young People, Parents and Peers programme | September 2026 | Ballyclare; Bangor; Belfast; Cookstown; Randalstown – other locations to be confirmed |
The Sign Language Partnership Group is a cross-departmental/Deaf sectoral forum, chaired by my department. Its current membership includes Deaf organisations and individuals who use and advocate for British Sign Language (BSL), Irish Sign Language (ISL) and Deaf culture. Its current membership includes:
Action Deaf Youth
Association of Sign Language Interpreters
British Deaf Association NI
Deaf Answers
Foyle Deaf Association
Hands That Talk
National Deaf Children’s Society
Northern Ireland Deaf Women’s Group
Royal National Institute for the Deaf
Sense NI
Visual Language Professionals
I am satisfied that there is sufficient representation within the Sign Language Partnership Group to satisfy the conditions laid out in section 5(3)(b), and my department does not intend to recruit or appoint specific, additional persons or bodies at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051457%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497569","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497569"}},{"id":"497568","reference":"AQW 51456/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-09","answerBy":"2026-09-24","answered":"2026-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any remaining legislation he intends to bring to the Assembly before the end of the 2022-2027 Assembly Mandate in March 2027.","answerText":"I intend to bring forward the following Bills before the end of the 2022-27 Assembly mandate:\n\nthe Housing (Miscellaneous) Bill;\n\nthe Pension Schemes (Parity) Bill; and\n\nthe Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Debt) (Parity) Bill.\n\nI intend to bring the following Statutory Rules by March 2027:\n\nThe Social Security (Income and Capital Disregards) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;\n\nThe Discretionary Support (Amendment) (Fuel as a Grant) Regulations 2026;\n\nThe Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment, Jobseekers’ Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance (Claims and Payments) (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;\n\nThe Local Government (Cremation) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;\n\nThe Landlord Registration Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;\n\nThe Private Tenancies (Notice to Quit) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;\n\nThe Domestic Energy Efficiency Grants Regulations (Warm Healthy Homes Fund) (NI) 2026;\n\nHousing Benefit and Universal Credit Housing Costs (Executive Determinations) (Modification) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2027;\n\nThe Charities (Registration Threshold) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2025;\n\nThe Housing Renewal Grants (Reduction of Grant) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;\n\nThe Local Government Staff Commission (Dissolution) Order (Northern Ireland) 2026;\n\nThe Local Government Pension Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) (Member Benefits Amendments) 2026;\n\nThe Sign Language (Prescribed Organisations) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2027;\n\nThe Child Support (Collection, Enforcement and Fees) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026; and\n\nThe Child Maintenance (2008 Act) (Commencement No.16 and Transitional and Savings Provisions) Order (Northern Ireland) 2026.\n\nFurther subordinate legislation may be required before the end of the Assembly mandate.","answerHtml":"I intend to bring forward the following Bills before the end of the 2022-27 Assembly mandate:
the Housing (Miscellaneous) Bill;
the Pension Schemes (Parity) Bill; and
the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Debt) (Parity) Bill.
I intend to bring the following Statutory Rules by March 2027:
The Social Security (Income and Capital Disregards) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;
The Discretionary Support (Amendment) (Fuel as a Grant) Regulations 2026;
The Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment, Jobseekers’ Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance (Claims and Payments) (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;
The Local Government (Cremation) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;
The Landlord Registration Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;
The Private Tenancies (Notice to Quit) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;
The Domestic Energy Efficiency Grants Regulations (Warm Healthy Homes Fund) (NI) 2026;
Housing Benefit and Universal Credit Housing Costs (Executive Determinations) (Modification) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2027;
The Charities (Registration Threshold) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2025;
The Housing Renewal Grants (Reduction of Grant) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026;
The Local Government Staff Commission (Dissolution) Order (Northern Ireland) 2026;
The Local Government Pension Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) (Member Benefits Amendments) 2026;
The Sign Language (Prescribed Organisations) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2027;
The Child Support (Collection, Enforcement and Fees) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026; and
The Child Maintenance (2008 Act) (Commencement No.16 and Transitional and Savings Provisions) Order (Northern Ireland) 2026.
Further subordinate legislation may be required before the end of the Assembly mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051456%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497568","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497568"}},{"id":"497282","reference":"AQW 51285/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-08","answerBy":"2026-09-23","answered":"2026-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, in light of the findings of Trussell's Pathways to End the Need for Food Banks in Northern Ireland initiative, to detail (i) any steps his Department is taking to support households facing financial hardship, income shocks, housing insecurity and food poverty; and (ii) any financial support options, other than Discretionary Support, that are available or under development to prevent families and individuals from having to rely on food banks.","answerText":"My Department delivers a range of support to households facing financial hardship, income shocks, housing insecurity and food poverty. These include:\n\n£7.7m allocated to the independent advice and debt sector in 2025/26;\n\n£2.2m allocated to the Integrated Advice Partnership Fund between November 2024 to March 2027;\n\n£2.86m allocated to Social Supermarket projects in each Council area in 2025/26;\n\nContinued delivery of the Make the Call service. In 2024/25, 11,486 people were helped to access £63.3m in additional annualised benefits, increasing incomes by an average of £105.95 per person per week;\n\n25 projects currently being funded through the Homelessness Prevention Fund;\n\n£210m invested in new social housing in 2025/26;\n\n£61.5m allocated to deliver the first 300 homes under the Departments Intermediate Rent policy;\n\nExtending the minimum Notice to Quit period from four to eight weeks, with tenants who have lived in their home for more than eight years entitled to up to seven months’ notice; and\n\nImproving home energy efficiency, strengthening energy advice and consumer protections, and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels through the Warm Healthy Homes Strategy.\n\nOther financial supports available or in development include:\n\nUniversal Credit, under which claimants may also be entitled to New Claims Grants, Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) loans and Budgeting Advance;\n\nThe Warm Healthy Homes Fund;\n\nHome Heating Oil Support Scheme; and\n\nDiscretionary Housing Payments.\n\nI remain fully committed to delivering the Anti-Poverty Strategy and will bring forward legislative changes to increase the flexibility of the Discretionary Support Scheme, including grants for fuel costs and essential boiler repairs.","answerHtml":"My Department delivers a range of support to households facing financial hardship, income shocks, housing insecurity and food poverty. These include:
£7.7m allocated to the independent advice and debt sector in 2025/26;
£2.2m allocated to the Integrated Advice Partnership Fund between November 2024 to March 2027;
£2.86m allocated to Social Supermarket projects in each Council area in 2025/26;
Continued delivery of the Make the Call service. In 2024/25, 11,486 people were helped to access £63.3m in additional annualised benefits, increasing incomes by an average of £105.95 per person per week;
25 projects currently being funded through the Homelessness Prevention Fund;
£210m invested in new social housing in 2025/26;
£61.5m allocated to deliver the first 300 homes under the Departments Intermediate Rent policy;
Extending the minimum Notice to Quit period from four to eight weeks, with tenants who have lived in their home for more than eight years entitled to up to seven months’ notice; and
Improving home energy efficiency, strengthening energy advice and consumer protections, and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels through the Warm Healthy Homes Strategy.
Other financial supports available or in development include:
Universal Credit, under which claimants may also be entitled to New Claims Grants, Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) loans and Budgeting Advance;
The Warm Healthy Homes Fund;
Home Heating Oil Support Scheme; and
Discretionary Housing Payments.
I remain fully committed to delivering the Anti-Poverty Strategy and will bring forward legislative changes to increase the flexibility of the Discretionary Support Scheme, including grants for fuel costs and essential boiler repairs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051285%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497282","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497282"}},{"id":"497281","reference":"AQW 51284/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-08","answerBy":"2026-09-23","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether any consideration will be given to (i) including in the next Programme for Government a specific target to end the need for food banks and charitable food provision; and (ii) formally adopting the recommendations contained in Trussell's Pathways to End the Need for Food Banks in Northern Ireland initiative as a cross-departmental framework for tackling poverty and hunger.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051284%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497281","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497281"}},{"id":"497280","reference":"AQW 51283/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-08","answerBy":"2026-09-23","answered":"2026-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he will establish a formal data-sharing partnership involving government departments, the community and voluntary sector, academic institutions and the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency to monitor hunger, food insecurity and food bank usage, and to assess progress towards ending the need for charitable food provision.","answerText":"I recognise the importance of effective and responsible data sharing in improving public services, supporting evidence-based policy making and delivering better outcomes for citizens.\n\nMy Department is already taking forward a programme of work to strengthen data sharing and linkage across the public sector. The Administrative Data Research NI (ADR NI) partnership between NISRA, Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and Ulster University, supports the acquisition, linking and analysis of administrative datasets held by public authorities, developing cutting-edge research to improve knowledge, policymaking and public service delivery.\n\nIn addition, the NI Longitudinal Study – a collaboration between NISRA, QUB and HSCNI – is a wide-ranging database of people and their major life events, covering a period of several decades. It is proportionally a larger longitudinal study than in England, Wales or Scotland, covering around 28% of the NI population and accounting for approximately 50% of households. The NILS comprises data from Census returns (1981 to 2021), vital events (births, deaths and marriages), as well as migration and property data. The result is over 40 years of longitudinal data which is regularly being updated. In addition to this resource there is the potential to link further Health and Social Care data via Distinct Linkage Projects. Both research initiatives support accredited research in the areas of deprivation, poverty and inequalities among a range of other topics.\n\nThe ADR NI and NILS continue to engage closely with NI departments, including the Department for Communities, to assess ongoing and emerging data sharing priorities and to develop insightful data for research where appropriate and lawful to do so.","answerHtml":"I recognise the importance of effective and responsible data sharing in improving public services, supporting evidence-based policy making and delivering better outcomes for citizens.
My Department is already taking forward a programme of work to strengthen data sharing and linkage across the public sector. The Administrative Data Research NI (ADR NI) partnership between NISRA, Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and Ulster University, supports the acquisition, linking and analysis of administrative datasets held by public authorities, developing cutting-edge research to improve knowledge, policymaking and public service delivery.
In addition, the NI Longitudinal Study – a collaboration between NISRA, QUB and HSCNI – is a wide-ranging database of people and their major life events, covering a period of several decades. It is proportionally a larger longitudinal study than in England, Wales or Scotland, covering around 28% of the NI population and accounting for approximately 50% of households. The NILS comprises data from Census returns (1981 to 2021), vital events (births, deaths and marriages), as well as migration and property data. The result is over 40 years of longitudinal data which is regularly being updated. In addition to this resource there is the potential to link further Health and Social Care data via Distinct Linkage Projects. Both research initiatives support accredited research in the areas of deprivation, poverty and inequalities among a range of other topics.
The ADR NI and NILS continue to engage closely with NI departments, including the Department for Communities, to assess ongoing and emerging data sharing priorities and to develop insightful data for research where appropriate and lawful to do so.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051283%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497280","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497280"}},{"id":"497279","reference":"AQW 51282/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-08","answerBy":"2026-09-23","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether any consideration will be given to the establishment of a cross-departmental governance group, chaired by their Department, to oversee delivery of actions aimed at ending the need for food banks.","answerText":"This question has been directed to the Department for Communities for response as my Department is leading on the development of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy.\n\nWork is underway on refining the Strategy and action plan following the public consultation developing a range of preventative measures which will address, short, medium and long term causes and impacts of poverty. This will maximise the impact of the Strategy and help us tackle poverty in a more sustainable manner.\n\nThe Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy will take a cross-departmental approach. Decisions on the final governance arrangements, including any cross-departmental oversight mechanisms, will be confirmed when the Strategy is launched.\n\nIt is anticipated that work in tackling poverty will help lower reliance on foodbanks in our communities.","answerHtml":"This question has been directed to the Department for Communities for response as my Department is leading on the development of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy.
Work is underway on refining the Strategy and action plan following the public consultation developing a range of preventative measures which will address, short, medium and long term causes and impacts of poverty. This will maximise the impact of the Strategy and help us tackle poverty in a more sustainable manner.
The Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy will take a cross-departmental approach. Decisions on the final governance arrangements, including any cross-departmental oversight mechanisms, will be confirmed when the Strategy is launched.
It is anticipated that work in tackling poverty will help lower reliance on foodbanks in our communities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051282%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497279","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497279"}},{"id":"497278","reference":"AQW 51281/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-08","answerBy":"2026-09-23","answered":"2026-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether there are any plans to introduce multi-year, inflation-linked, full cost recovery funding arrangements for advice services and community organisations supporting people experiencing poverty and financial hardship; and (ii) whether any assessment has been made of the impact of short-term funding on service delivery.","answerText":"Given the continued uncertainty around the 2026–27 budget, I approved that my Department cover the three-month period up to 30 June 2026 and subsequently approved a further three-month period up to 30 September 2026, with both allocations based on the opening 2025-26 allocation.\n\nThe overall funding position remains under ongoing review.\n\nNo assessment has been undertaken by my Department on the impact of short-term funding on service delivery.","answerHtml":"Given the continued uncertainty around the 2026–27 budget, I approved that my Department cover the three-month period up to 30 June 2026 and subsequently approved a further three-month period up to 30 September 2026, with both allocations based on the opening 2025-26 allocation.
The overall funding position remains under ongoing review.
No assessment has been undertaken by my Department on the impact of short-term funding on service delivery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051281%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497278","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497278"}},{"id":"497019","reference":"AQW 51131/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-07","answerBy":"2026-09-22","answered":"2026-09-24","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 she is working with the Minister for Communities to enable investment into EnergyCloud type products, for vulnerable residents who are most impacted by fuel poverty.","answerText":"The Department for the Economy has responsibility for energy policy and is progressing delivery of the Executive's Energy Strategy, which aims to deliver secure, affordable and clean energy, and recognises Smart Local Energy Systems as an important enabler of that transition.\n\nWhile innovative proposals such as EnergyCloud merit consideration, any model must demonstrate value for money, technical feasibility and clear consumer benefits. Any approach must be accessible and fair, recognising that the costs of generating, transmitting and distributing electricity are ultimately borne by consumers. Any intervention must therefore support affordability, deliver wider value and align with our strategic objectives.\n\nMy officials work closely with colleagues in the Department for Communities, which has lead responsibility for fuel poverty policy, including the Warm, Healthy Homes Strategy. Through this collaboration, we continue to explore how smart energy solutions can support vulnerable households and improve energy affordability.","answerHtml":"The Department for the Economy has responsibility for energy policy and is progressing delivery of the Executive's Energy Strategy, which aims to deliver secure, affordable and clean energy, and recognises Smart Local Energy Systems as an important enabler of that transition.
While innovative proposals such as EnergyCloud merit consideration, any model must demonstrate value for money, technical feasibility and clear consumer benefits. Any approach must be accessible and fair, recognising that the costs of generating, transmitting and distributing electricity are ultimately borne by consumers. Any intervention must therefore support affordability, deliver wider value and align with our strategic objectives.
My officials work closely with colleagues in the Department for Communities, which has lead responsibility for fuel poverty policy, including the Warm, Healthy Homes Strategy. Through this collaboration, we continue to explore how smart energy solutions can support vulnerable households and improve energy affordability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051131%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497019","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497019"}},{"id":"497018","reference":"AQW 51130/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-07","answerBy":"2026-09-22","answered":"2026-09-17","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) to provide a copy of any course content designed to teach students in (a) schools; (b) higher education; and (c) further education, about how to become self-employed and the practicalities of operating their own business; and (ii) to detail any materials that are provided for careers advisors to encourage self-employment.","answerText":"All college and university courses, including module content, can be found on the Further Education College and Higher Education Institution websites. Schools are not within the remit of my department.\n\nCareers Advisers provide personalised support and have access to up-to-date labour market information provided by my department’s economists which they use to inform careers guidance discussions, including self-employment.\n\nAdditionally, the Careers Occupational Information Unit develop locally focused careers resources through engagement with employers, educators, industry representatives, professional bodies and other stakeholders.","answerHtml":"All college and university courses, including module content, can be found on the Further Education College and Higher Education Institution websites. Schools are not within the remit of my department.
Careers Advisers provide personalised support and have access to up-to-date labour market information provided by my department’s economists which they use to inform careers guidance discussions, including self-employment.
Additionally, the Careers Occupational Information Unit develop locally focused careers resources through engagement with employers, educators, industry representatives, professional bodies and other stakeholders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051130%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497018","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497018"}},{"id":"496863","reference":"AQW 50999/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","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 whether there are any plans to review or reform the functions of the Strategic Planning and Performance Group, in light of the establishment of the Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care and wider reforms to elective care service.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.\n\nThe Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.\n\nNo functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.\n\nExisting accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.\n\nBy working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.
The Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.
No functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.
Existing accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.
By working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050999%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496863","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496863"}},{"id":"496862","reference":"AQW 50998/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":"2026-09-27","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 individuals who have been transferred for treatment and accommodation to psychiatric intensive care units and acute mental health wards in Great Britain; (ii) the associated cost per individual; and (iii) the source of funding for such transfers, in the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"In responding to this question, it is important to note that acute mental health care refers to short-term inpatient assessment, treatment and stabilisation for individuals experiencing a severe mental health episode requiring hospital admission. Northern Ireland has local provision of both acute mental health wards and Psychiatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs), and therefore patients are not transferred to Great Britain for routine acute mental health inpatient care.\n\nTransfers through the Extra Contractual Referral (ECR) process are considered only where a patient requires access to a highly specialised mental health assessment, treatment or care pathway that is not available within Northern Ireland. Such referrals are distinct from acute inpatient care and relate to specialist services that cannot be provided locally.\n\nAccordingly, there are no individuals transferred to Great Britain for treatment and accommodation in acute mental health wards or PICUs. Any mental health-related ECRs approved for treatment in Great Britain are for highly specialised services unavailable within Northern Ireland and should not be regarded as transfers for acute mental health care.","answerHtml":"In responding to this question, it is important to note that acute mental health care refers to short-term inpatient assessment, treatment and stabilisation for individuals experiencing a severe mental health episode requiring hospital admission. Northern Ireland has local provision of both acute mental health wards and Psychiatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs), and therefore patients are not transferred to Great Britain for routine acute mental health inpatient care.
Transfers through the Extra Contractual Referral (ECR) process are considered only where a patient requires access to a highly specialised mental health assessment, treatment or care pathway that is not available within Northern Ireland. Such referrals are distinct from acute inpatient care and relate to specialist services that cannot be provided locally.
Accordingly, there are no individuals transferred to Great Britain for treatment and accommodation in acute mental health wards or PICUs. Any mental health-related ECRs approved for treatment in Great Britain are for highly specialised services unavailable within Northern Ireland and should not be regarded as transfers for acute mental health care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050998%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496862","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496862"}},{"id":"496861","reference":"AQW 50997/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","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 whether the appointment of the Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care has resulted in any changes to the organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities of the Strategic Planning and Performance Group.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.\n\nThe Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.\n\nNo functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.\n\nExisting accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.\n\nBy working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.
The Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.
No functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.
Existing accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.
By working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050997%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496861","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496861"}},{"id":"496860","reference":"AQW 50996/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":"2026-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any communication between his Department and the Just Transition Commission, relating to housing, in the last 12 months.","answerText":"While the Just Transition Commission for Northern Ireland was approved by the Northern Ireland Assembly in April 2026, to date, no appointments have been made to the Commission. As it does not yet have any appointed members, my Department has not had any communication with it on any matters relating to housing.","answerHtml":"While the Just Transition Commission for Northern Ireland was approved by the Northern Ireland Assembly in April 2026, to date, no appointments have been made to the Commission. As it does not yet have any appointed members, my Department has not had any communication with it on any matters relating to housing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050996%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496860","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496860"}},{"id":"496859","reference":"AQW 50995/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":"2026-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance Whether he plans to review HR Connect recruitment practices to ensure they are fair and equitable, in light of issues raised in the recent IRC324853 Civil Service recruitment competition, including that the job advertisement did not state that applicants were required to complete an online aptitude test; that details of the test were only referenced on page 21 of the Candidate Information Booklet; and that the aptitude test deadline closed one week before the application submission deadline.","answerText":"The Civil Service is committed to fair, open and consistent recruitment.\n\nIn competition IRC324853 for ICT Level 3 Specialist roles, candidates were directed to the Candidate Information Booklet, which outlined the requirement to complete a Mindmill aptitude test and the relevant deadline. The test window closed one week before the application deadline to facilitate administration and allow time for completion of remaining application requirements.\n\nLessons learned from individual competitions are routinely considered and, where appropriate, improvements are made. Officials will consider whether information on non-standard assessment deadlines can be highlighted more prominently in future recruitment advertisements and supporting materials.","answerHtml":"The Civil Service is committed to fair, open and consistent recruitment.
In competition IRC324853 for ICT Level 3 Specialist roles, candidates were directed to the Candidate Information Booklet, which outlined the requirement to complete a Mindmill aptitude test and the relevant deadline. The test window closed one week before the application deadline to facilitate administration and allow time for completion of remaining application requirements.
Lessons learned from individual competitions are routinely considered and, where appropriate, improvements are made. Officials will consider whether information on non-standard assessment deadlines can be highlighted more prominently in future recruitment advertisements and supporting materials.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050995%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496859","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496859"}},{"id":"496708","reference":"AQW 50865/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-18","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 (i) who holds overall accountability for the delivery of waiting list recovery; and (ii) the respective responsibilities of (a) his Department; (b) the Strategic Planning and Performance Group; (c) Health and Social Care Trusts; and (d) the Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.\n\nThe Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.\n\nNo functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.\n\nExisting accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.\n\nBy working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.
The Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.
No functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.
Existing accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.
By working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050865%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496708","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496708"}},{"id":"496707","reference":"AQW 50864/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-18","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 whether any duplication of responsibilities has been identified between the Strategic Planning and Performance Group and the Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.\n\nThe Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.\n\nNo functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.\n\nExisting accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.\n\nBy working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.
The Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.
No functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.
Existing accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.
By working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050864%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496707","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496707"}},{"id":"496706","reference":"AQW 50863/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-18","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 whether any review was undertaken of the Strategic Planning and Performance Group’s role, capacity or effectiveness in relation to elective care prior to the appointment of the Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.\n\nThe Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.\n\nNo functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.\n\nExisting accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.\n\nBy working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.
The Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.
No functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.
Existing accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.
By working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050863%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496706","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496706"}},{"id":"496705","reference":"AQW 50862/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-18","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 any responsibilities previously undertaken by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group that have transferred to the Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care, since the creation of that post.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.\n\nThe Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.\n\nNo functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.\n\nExisting accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.\n\nBy working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.
The Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.
No functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.
Existing accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.
By working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050862%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496705","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496705"}},{"id":"496704","reference":"AQW 50861/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-18","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 rationale for appointing a Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care, including which specific responsibilities could not be delivered through existing Department or Strategic Planning and Performance Group arrangements.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.\n\nThe Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.\n\nNo functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.\n\nExisting accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.\n\nBy working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.
The Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.
No functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.
Existing accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.
By working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050861%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496704","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496704"}},{"id":"496598","reference":"AQO 3920/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-15","answered":"2026-09-15","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 efforts to introduce no-fault divorce.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203920%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496598","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-09-15&docID=497468#AQO%203920/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496598"}},{"id":"496568","reference":"AQO 3890/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-14","answered":"2026-09-14","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 any discussions she has had with the Minister for Infrastructure on reforming the planning system and addressing wastewater infrastructure, which are barriers to economic growth and investment.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Dr Archibald (The Minister for the Economy)","text":"Earlier this year, I met the Minister for Infrastructure and NI Water, and we are meeting again tomorrow to discuss water and waste water infrastructure and NI Water's proposals to address issues that constrain economic development here. Together, working with industry, we are exploring ways in which we can apply innovative solutions, while continuing to press the British Government for a fair and sustainable funding settlement, the absence of which, over many years, has led to the degradation of our waste water infrastructure. I know that my Executive colleague the Infrastructure Minister is working hard, within financial constraints, to improve waste water infrastructure and the planning system and that she regularly engages with Executive colleagues to advocate for an increase in waste water investment to modernise our ageing waste water system in order to facilitate housing growth and economic development."},{"speaker":"Ms K Armstrong","text":"Newtownards is the largest town in my constituency of Strangford and has the most economic impact in the area. It is in a closed capture area, however. What action is the Minister for the Economy's Department taking to support businesses that have been negatively affected by waste water infrastructure, where that has created barriers to economic growth and investment and led to two businesses in my constituency potentially closing?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I thank the Member for her question. She has corresponded with me previously on issues to do with the waste water infrastructure in Newtownards. As an Executive, we are collectively focused on the issue and are working with NI Water. The Infrastructure Minister has lead responsibility for that and has been trying to identify ways in which to free up capacity and to target investment at where it will have the most impact. We continue to work alongside Invest NI as we try to support businesses to navigate the system. We all agree that more needs to be done on investment, freeing up capacity and allowing economic development to take place. I am happy to take up with the Infrastructure Minister the issues that the Member has highlighted, and we are working together to try to find a way forward."},{"speaker":"Mr Martin","text":"Minister, the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) has recently stated that over 6,000 homes cannot currently be built in Northern Ireland. The Wastewater Infrastructure Group (WIG) reports that, if constraints continue, Northern Ireland's economy, based on GVA, will be a quarter of a billion pounds smaller over the next three years. How concerned are you about the figures that I have just presented to you? Are you content with your party colleague the Minister for Infrastructure's three-pronged approach, which you referenced, given that the industry has called it wholly inadequate?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I thank the Member for his question. As I said, the Executive as a whole have a focus on the need to invest in our waste water infrastructure. We do consider it a constraint to building houses, to which he referred, and to economic development. We are therefore focused on that. I support the Infrastructure Minister's three-pronged approach. She has set out, as her predecessor did, an approach that will help unlock capacity and deal with the water that is going into the system in the first place. There are challenges at both ends. We need to look at how we can do things more innovatively, and the Infrastructure Minister and I, along with NI Water and Invest NI, are currently working on doing that. We are looking to see whether there are things that we can do to support business in order to free up capacity. I assure the Member that we have a focus on the issue and that the Executive as a whole have a focus on it."},{"speaker":"Mr McGlone","text":"Minister, can you tell us whether Invest NI records every investment opportunity that is lost owing to planning delays or waste water constraints? If it does not, how can your Department claim to understand and measure the true economic cost of those failures?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I thank the Member for his question. I am not sure that there is a dataset that captures what he set out. When businesses and investors make decisions, they make them based on a range of measures, so, of course, Invest will interrogate the various issues that any investor identifies, and it will have a record of that. I am happy to correspond with the Member on the detail of how that information is captured and the exact dataset that Invest NI captures. The chief executive of Invest NI has identified some of the constraints, with which we are all very familiar, as a challenge. Certainly, I have been working with him, as I have with my Executive colleagues, to try to find a way forward. The Infrastructure Minister and I are putting a focus on what more we can do from an innovative perspective to try to free up capacity, allow economic development to take place and, importantly, allow houses to be built."},{"speaker":"Mr Gaston","text":"Minister, planning red tape is one of the biggest obstacles to growing our local economy. Devolving planning powers to councils in 2015 moved us from having one set of policies governing planning to having 11 localised plans. Any reform of planning must ensure a return to one set of Northern Ireland-wide policies. Has the Minister considered the impact that having multiple planning policies is having on attracting foreign direct investment or allowing our local businesses to grow?"},{"speaker":"Madam Principal Deputy Speaker","text":"Minister, you are not responsible for planning. You can answer that question whatever way you feel."},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"Thank you, a Phriomh-Leas-Cheann Comhairle."},{"speaker":"","text":"I have been fairly generous in not pushing back at Members in relation to who has responsibility for these particular areas, because I very much recognise the cross-cutting impact that planning and waste water infrastructure have on the local economy. I assure the Member that I have engaged regularly with my colleague the Infrastructure Minister, who does have a particular focus on the planning improvement plan, to address some of the challenges — with which we will all be familiar through our constituency offices — when it comes to businesses seeking to invest, develop and grow. It is important to recognise that, over the past couple of years, there have been improvements in the time taken for planning applications. We work on that across Departments, as well as across agencies with different responsibilities. We will continue to place a focus on it, because we all want to achieve the same outcome."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203890%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496568","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-09-14&docID=497467#AQO%203890/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496568"}},{"id":"496518","reference":"AQW 50730/22-27","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 respective responsibilities of (i) his Department; (ii) the Strategic Planning and Performance Group; (iii) Health and Social Care Trusts; and (iv) the Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care, in relation to (a) elective care; (b) waiting list recovery; and (c) performance improvement.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.\n\nThe Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.\n\nNo functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.\n\nExisting accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.\n\nBy working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.
The Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.
No functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.
Existing accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.
By working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050730%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496518"}},{"id":"496517","reference":"AQW 50729/22-27","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 (i) statutory; (ii) commissioning; (iii) performance management; (iv) planning; and (v) oversight, functions of the Strategic Planning and Performance Group, in relation to (a) elective care; and (b) waiting list management.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.\n\nThe Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.\n\nNo functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.\n\nExisting accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.\n\nBy working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.
The Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.
No functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.
Existing accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.
By working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050729%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496517"}},{"id":"496516","reference":"AQW 50728/22-27","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 whether the appointment of the Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care represents (i) additional capacity; (ii) a transfer of functions previously undertaken by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group; or (iii) the assumption of functions that were previously not undertaken by any organisation within the Health and Social Care system.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.\n\nThe Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.\n\nNo functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.\n\nExisting accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.\n\nBy working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.
The Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.
No functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.
Existing accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.
By working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050728%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496516"}},{"id":"496515","reference":"AQW 50727/22-27","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 rationale for appointing a Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care, including any specific responsibilities which could not be delivered through existing departmental or Strategic Planning and Performance Group arrangements.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.\n\nThe Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.\n\nNo functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.\n\nExisting accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.\n\nBy working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for setting policy and strategic priorities for elective care, the planning and commissioning of services, the allocation and management of resources, and the monitoring and performance management of Health and Social Care (HSC) services. HSC Trusts are responsible for the operational delivery of elective services.
The Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care provides additional independent clinical advice and leadership to support the planning, improvement and transformation of elective services. The role supports clinical engagement, the sharing of best practice and action to address unwarranted clinical variation. It is an advisory role and does not carry commissioning, performance-management or operational accountability. The Regional Clinical Director has been instrumental in overseeing, leading and supporting the drive to reduce waiting lists.
No functions or responsibilities have transferred from the Strategic Policy and Planning Group (SPPG) within my Department to the Regional Clinical Director, and no duplication of responsibilities has been identified. The appointment has not resulted in changes to SPPG’s organisational structure, staffing establishment or responsibilities.
Existing accountability arrangements remain unchanged. My Department retains responsibility for policy and strategic oversight; SPPG for planning, commissioning and performance management; and Trusts for service delivery.
By working as one system, we are delivering more elective care more efficiently and more consistently for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050727%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496515","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496515"}},{"id":"496514","reference":"AQW 50726/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-02","answerBy":"2026-09-17","answered":"2026-09-21","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 when the regulations in relation to the Sign Language Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 will be brought to the Assembly.","answerText":"I expect to make the first of two commencement orders for the Sign Language Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 in the coming weeks. That will provide my department with the authority to make the regulations necessary, following the completion of any necessary preparatory steps, including the completion of required consultations. As such, it is not possible at this point to provide a precise date on which regulations will be brought to the Assembly.","answerHtml":"I expect to make the first of two commencement orders for the Sign Language Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 in the coming weeks. That will provide my department with the authority to make the regulations necessary, following the completion of any necessary preparatory steps, including the completion of required consultations. As such, it is not possible at this point to provide a precise date on which regulations will be brought to the Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050726%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496514","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496514"}},{"id":"497451","reference":"AQO 3859/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-01","answerBy":"2026-09-07","answered":"2026-09-09","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 to outline any issues they plan to raise at the Prime Minister's summit with leaders of the devolved governments in October 2026.","answerText":"While the agenda and terms of reference for the meeting have yet to be confirmed, we will ensure that Northern Ireland’s priorities are clearly represented. We will promote the need for sustainable economic growth and investment and use the opportunity to highlight the particular economic circumstances and opportunities for Northern Ireland, including the importance of investment in skills, infrastructure and connectivity.","answerHtml":"While the agenda and terms of reference for the meeting have yet to be confirmed, we will ensure that Northern Ireland’s priorities are clearly represented. We will promote the need for sustainable economic growth and investment and use the opportunity to highlight the particular economic circumstances and opportunities for Northern Ireland, including the importance of investment in skills, infrastructure and connectivity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203859%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497451","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497451"}},{"id":"494093","reference":"AQW 50476/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-03","answerBy":"2026-07-22","answered":"2026-07-28","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 any progress that has been made in creating an accessible built environment, given the high prevalence of mobility impairments, as noted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I welcome the publication of The Joseph Rowntree Foundation report Disability and Poverty in NI, and I acknowledge the financial pressures facing many disabled people.\n\nThrough its oversight role within the two-tier planning system, my Department seeks to ensure that accessibility and inclusive design are embedded in planning policy and decision-making across the north. The Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) places sustainable development and improved wellbeing for everyone at the heart of the planning system. It requires planning authorities to support the creation of high quality, inclusive and accessible places and to take account of the needs of all sections of the community when preparing Local Development Plans and determining planning applications. My Department’s SPPS is therefore a key mechanism through which accessibility considerations are embedded within the planning process.\n\nIn addition, my Department’s Living Places Design Guide, promotes a people-centred approach to placemaking and encourages the design of streets, public spaces and developments that are accessible, connected, and usable by everyone, including older people and those with disabilities or reduced mobility.\n\nThe Planning (General Development Procedure) Order (NI) 2015 (SR 2015 No. 72) introduced Design and Access Statement requirements through planning legislation for specified categories of development. These statements require applicants to explain and justify the design principles underpinning a proposal, including how issues relating to access have been considered and addressed. This helps ensure that accessibility considerations are embedded at an early stage in the design process and supports the delivery of more inclusive development.\n\nThe Planning (Fees) Regulations (NI) 2015 also make provision to exempt a planning fee for the carrying out of operations for the alteration or extension of an existing dwelling house or the carrying out of operations in the curtilage of an existing dwelling house for the purpose of providing means of access to or within the dwelling house for a disabled person who is resident in, or is proposing to take up residence in, that dwelling house, or of providing facilities designed to secure that person’s greater safety, health or comfort.\n\nFurthermore, my Department's emerging Transport Strategy seeks to support the delivery of a sustainable, safe and accessible transport system that meets the needs of both urban and rural communities. Through better integration between transport modes and a people centred approach to the design of streets and public spaces, the Strategy will help reduce transport related barriers and improve access to employment, education, healthcare and social participation, particularly for people with mobility impairments and others who experience barriers to travel.\n\nWhile responsibility for delivering an accessible built environment extends across a range of public bodies and sectors, I will continue to engage with councils and other stakeholders to encourage good design and improve accessibility outcomes across the north.","answerHtml":"I welcome the publication of The Joseph Rowntree Foundation report Disability and Poverty in NI, and I acknowledge the financial pressures facing many disabled people.
Through its oversight role within the two-tier planning system, my Department seeks to ensure that accessibility and inclusive design are embedded in planning policy and decision-making across the north. The Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) places sustainable development and improved wellbeing for everyone at the heart of the planning system. It requires planning authorities to support the creation of high quality, inclusive and accessible places and to take account of the needs of all sections of the community when preparing Local Development Plans and determining planning applications. My Department’s SPPS is therefore a key mechanism through which accessibility considerations are embedded within the planning process.
In addition, my Department’s Living Places Design Guide, promotes a people-centred approach to placemaking and encourages the design of streets, public spaces and developments that are accessible, connected, and usable by everyone, including older people and those with disabilities or reduced mobility.
The Planning (General Development Procedure) Order (NI) 2015 (SR 2015 No. 72) introduced Design and Access Statement requirements through planning legislation for specified categories of development. These statements require applicants to explain and justify the design principles underpinning a proposal, including how issues relating to access have been considered and addressed. This helps ensure that accessibility considerations are embedded at an early stage in the design process and supports the delivery of more inclusive development.
The Planning (Fees) Regulations (NI) 2015 also make provision to exempt a planning fee for the carrying out of operations for the alteration or extension of an existing dwelling house or the carrying out of operations in the curtilage of an existing dwelling house for the purpose of providing means of access to or within the dwelling house for a disabled person who is resident in, or is proposing to take up residence in, that dwelling house, or of providing facilities designed to secure that person’s greater safety, health or comfort.
Furthermore, my Department's emerging Transport Strategy seeks to support the delivery of a sustainable, safe and accessible transport system that meets the needs of both urban and rural communities. Through better integration between transport modes and a people centred approach to the design of streets and public spaces, the Strategy will help reduce transport related barriers and improve access to employment, education, healthcare and social participation, particularly for people with mobility impairments and others who experience barriers to travel.
While responsibility for delivering an accessible built environment extends across a range of public bodies and sectors, I will continue to engage with councils and other stakeholders to encourage good design and improve accessibility outcomes across the north.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050476%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=494093","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=494093"}},{"id":"494092","reference":"AQW 50475/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-03","answerBy":"2026-07-22","answered":"2026-08-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following the May 2026 Joseph Rowntree Foundation report Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland, to detail any steps his Department is taking to support disabled people to remain independent and reduce long-term costs.","answerText":"I recognise the concerns highlighted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report (May 2026), particularly in relation to the impact that delays in health and social care services can have on disabled people’s health, independence, ability to work and financial wellbeing.\n\nWhile waiting lists across Health and Social Care remain under significant pressure due to increasing demand, workforce challenges and longstanding capacity constraints, my Department is taking forward a range of measures to improve access to care. During 2025/2026, Health and Social Care services delivered over 385,000 additional assessments, diagnostics and treatments through the Elective Care Framework. My Department continues to invest in elective care centres, diagnostic and treatment capacity, regional waiting-list initiatives, workforce recruitment and retention, and enhanced regional working across Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nMy Department is also progressing the 10-Year Reforming Adult Social Care and Support Strategic Plan (2026–2036) and accompanying Delivery Plan. These are focused on six strategic priorities: individual choice, support for unpaid carers, prevention and early intervention, the centrality of home, a valued workforce, and sustainable system building. The reforms are intended to support a greater shift towards preventative, person-centred and community-based models of care.\n\nPrevention and early intervention are key elements of this programme. Although in the current financial climate, we cannot invest as much as I would like to in this programme of work, work is underway to develop a preventative adult care and support framework to strengthen early intervention, maximise community assets and reduce reliance on crisis-led services. The Strategic Plan also promotes the use of digital, assistive and adaptive technologies to support independence and improve outcomes.\n\nIn March 2026, I published my Department’s vision for Neighbourhood Health and Wellbeing, which aims to deliver more care closer to home through strengthened prevention, early intervention and integration across health and social care services. As part of this transformation, Health and Social Care organisations will work towards shifting 2% of expenditure annually from hospital-based services to community-based provision over the three-year period commencing in 2026/2027. This will be delivered through the new neighbourhood model and the new Integrated Neighbourhood Teams.\n\nWork is ongoing with a range of external partners to support preventative and early intervention approaches, including Macmillan Cancer Support, AstraZeneca and the Regional Obesity Management Service.\n\nSupporting disabled people to remain independent is a key objective of these reforms. My Department is committed to increasing uptake of Self-Directed Support and Direct Payments, enabling individuals to exercise greater choice and control over how their care needs are met. Work continues with stakeholders, people with lived experience and Health and Social Care Trusts to improve access to these arrangements.\n\nIn addition, Health and Social Care Trusts continue to provide reablement, homecare and community-based support services that help people maintain independence and participate fully in community life.\n\nCollectively, these measures are intended to improve access to care, strengthen preventative services, reduce waiting times, support independence and reduce reliance on more intensive interventions over the longer term. My Department remains committed to improving outcomes for disabled people and ensuring they receive the care and support they require.","answerHtml":"I recognise the concerns highlighted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report (May 2026), particularly in relation to the impact that delays in health and social care services can have on disabled people’s health, independence, ability to work and financial wellbeing.
While waiting lists across Health and Social Care remain under significant pressure due to increasing demand, workforce challenges and longstanding capacity constraints, my Department is taking forward a range of measures to improve access to care. During 2025/2026, Health and Social Care services delivered over 385,000 additional assessments, diagnostics and treatments through the Elective Care Framework. My Department continues to invest in elective care centres, diagnostic and treatment capacity, regional waiting-list initiatives, workforce recruitment and retention, and enhanced regional working across Health and Social Care Trusts.
My Department is also progressing the 10-Year Reforming Adult Social Care and Support Strategic Plan (2026–2036) and accompanying Delivery Plan. These are focused on six strategic priorities: individual choice, support for unpaid carers, prevention and early intervention, the centrality of home, a valued workforce, and sustainable system building. The reforms are intended to support a greater shift towards preventative, person-centred and community-based models of care.
Prevention and early intervention are key elements of this programme. Although in the current financial climate, we cannot invest as much as I would like to in this programme of work, work is underway to develop a preventative adult care and support framework to strengthen early intervention, maximise community assets and reduce reliance on crisis-led services. The Strategic Plan also promotes the use of digital, assistive and adaptive technologies to support independence and improve outcomes.
In March 2026, I published my Department’s vision for Neighbourhood Health and Wellbeing, which aims to deliver more care closer to home through strengthened prevention, early intervention and integration across health and social care services. As part of this transformation, Health and Social Care organisations will work towards shifting 2% of expenditure annually from hospital-based services to community-based provision over the three-year period commencing in 2026/2027. This will be delivered through the new neighbourhood model and the new Integrated Neighbourhood Teams.
Work is ongoing with a range of external partners to support preventative and early intervention approaches, including Macmillan Cancer Support, AstraZeneca and the Regional Obesity Management Service.
Supporting disabled people to remain independent is a key objective of these reforms. My Department is committed to increasing uptake of Self-Directed Support and Direct Payments, enabling individuals to exercise greater choice and control over how their care needs are met. Work continues with stakeholders, people with lived experience and Health and Social Care Trusts to improve access to these arrangements.
In addition, Health and Social Care Trusts continue to provide reablement, homecare and community-based support services that help people maintain independence and participate fully in community life.
Collectively, these measures are intended to improve access to care, strengthen preventative services, reduce waiting times, support independence and reduce reliance on more intensive interventions over the longer term. My Department remains committed to improving outcomes for disabled people and ensuring they receive the care and support they require.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050475%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=494092","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=494092"}},{"id":"494091","reference":"AQW 50474/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-03","answerBy":"2026-07-22","answered":"2026-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following the May 2026 Joseph Rowntree Foundation report Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland, to detail any steps his Department plans to take to ensure health inequalities are reduced, particularly in deprived communities with higher disability prevalence.","answerText":"I recognise that health inequalities are closely linked to deprivation, poverty and disability, and that people living in the most disadvantaged communities experience poorer health outcomes and lower healthy life expectancy. Disability can arise for a variety of reasons across the life course, and my Department is committed to improving outcomes for all individuals and communities experiencing poorer health.\n\nMaking Life Better (MLB) is the Executive’s overarching strategic framework for improving health and addressing health inequalities. MLB was developed based on the evidence that health and wellbeing, and health inequalities, are shaped by many factors including age, family, community, workplace, beliefs and traditions, economics, and physical and social environments.\n\nI have recently endorsed a new MLB Thematic Action Plan that builds on the MLB strategic framework and provides a renewed focus for collaborative action to improve health and wellbeing and reduce health inequalities across Northern Ireland. The new Thematic Action Plan has a focus on prevention, early intervention and addressing the wider factors that influence health.\n\nOne of the key enablers of the new Thematic Action Plan is to better join up activities to support those experiencing the most extreme health inequalities in our society both within the health service and across other key sectors. This includes deprived communities with higher disability prevalence. In particular, the Plan commits to a place-based approach to addressing health inequalities by applying the learning from the Live Better programme to the Neighbourhood Model of Health and Wellbeing, targeting action towards communities experiencing the greatest levels of deprivation and poor health outcomes.\n\nIn addition, one of the key thematic actions is to promote collaborative working to tackle issues that impact on economic inactivity, including supporting good work, healthy workplaces and helping people remain in employment. This should help address the employment barriers that disabled people in Northern Ireland face, as outlined in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report.","answerHtml":"I recognise that health inequalities are closely linked to deprivation, poverty and disability, and that people living in the most disadvantaged communities experience poorer health outcomes and lower healthy life expectancy. Disability can arise for a variety of reasons across the life course, and my Department is committed to improving outcomes for all individuals and communities experiencing poorer health.
Making Life Better (MLB) is the Executive’s overarching strategic framework for improving health and addressing health inequalities. MLB was developed based on the evidence that health and wellbeing, and health inequalities, are shaped by many factors including age, family, community, workplace, beliefs and traditions, economics, and physical and social environments.
I have recently endorsed a new MLB Thematic Action Plan that builds on the MLB strategic framework and provides a renewed focus for collaborative action to improve health and wellbeing and reduce health inequalities across Northern Ireland. The new Thematic Action Plan has a focus on prevention, early intervention and addressing the wider factors that influence health.
One of the key enablers of the new Thematic Action Plan is to better join up activities to support those experiencing the most extreme health inequalities in our society both within the health service and across other key sectors. This includes deprived communities with higher disability prevalence. In particular, the Plan commits to a place-based approach to addressing health inequalities by applying the learning from the Live Better programme to the Neighbourhood Model of Health and Wellbeing, targeting action towards communities experiencing the greatest levels of deprivation and poor health outcomes.
In addition, one of the key thematic actions is to promote collaborative working to tackle issues that impact on economic inactivity, including supporting good work, healthy workplaces and helping people remain in employment. This should help address the employment barriers that disabled people in Northern Ireland face, as outlined in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050474%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=494091","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=494091"}},{"id":"494090","reference":"AQW 50473/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-03","answerBy":"2026-07-22","answered":"2026-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any steps his Department will take to ensure that children with disabilities have equal access to education and opportunity, in line with issues highlighted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Access to education is a statutory right for all children of compulsory school age, including those with disabilities and/ or special educational needs (SEN) as set out in the Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 and the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996.","answerHtml":"Access to education is a statutory right for all children of compulsory school age, including those with disabilities and/ or special educational needs (SEN) as set out in the Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 and the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050473%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=494090","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=494090"}},{"id":"494089","reference":"AQW 50472/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-03","answerBy":"2026-07-22","answered":"2026-07-15","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 detail any actions that are being taken to address the fragmented transition system for young disabled people, as identified in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I share the concerns about the impact that a fragmented system can have on the lives of disabled individuals. As the report reflects, effective transitions into adulthood for young people with disabilities go far beyond skills and education considerations. Access to health and social care, social security benefits, housing, employment and transport are all relevant to supporting people to fulfil their aspirations.\n\nMy Department contributes through our skills, education and careers provision, much of which has been designed to address the range of barriers faced by individuals; including through the recent consultation on Widening Participation in Higher Education which proposed that disabled learners and those with Special Educational Needs should be recognised as priority groups.\n\nMy Department is also working in partnership with the Department for Communities and the Department of Health to deliver the Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project which aims to align skills, employment and health services to support employment outcomes for those with ill health and disabilities, including young people. We are also working closely with Department for Communities on both the Disability Strategy and the Disability and Work Strategy in which my Department owns a number of actions.\n\nIn addition to the supports already in place, my Department is progressing a range of actions aimed at improving post-school opportunities and outcomes for disabled young people who want to access education, employment or training. This includes work to improve transition planning and data sharing across relevant Departments and public bodies, to ensure appropriate careers support to help young people to make fully informed choices – including the development of new technology to support autistic learners through “how I work”, and to increase the range and accessibility of the pathways available.\n\nHowever, greater coordination and coherence is needed across all Departments, services and settings, otherwise disabled young people who do not fit neatly into our respective Departmental remits remain at risk not receiving the support and services they deserve. This is of great concern to me and to many young people, parents and carers. It is an issue I have brought to the attention of Executive colleagues and one which I hope will also be picked up through the Executive’s Disability Strategy, which is being led by the Department for the Communities.","answerHtml":"I share the concerns about the impact that a fragmented system can have on the lives of disabled individuals. As the report reflects, effective transitions into adulthood for young people with disabilities go far beyond skills and education considerations. Access to health and social care, social security benefits, housing, employment and transport are all relevant to supporting people to fulfil their aspirations.
My Department contributes through our skills, education and careers provision, much of which has been designed to address the range of barriers faced by individuals; including through the recent consultation on Widening Participation in Higher Education which proposed that disabled learners and those with Special Educational Needs should be recognised as priority groups.
My Department is also working in partnership with the Department for Communities and the Department of Health to deliver the Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project which aims to align skills, employment and health services to support employment outcomes for those with ill health and disabilities, including young people. We are also working closely with Department for Communities on both the Disability Strategy and the Disability and Work Strategy in which my Department owns a number of actions.
In addition to the supports already in place, my Department is progressing a range of actions aimed at improving post-school opportunities and outcomes for disabled young people who want to access education, employment or training. This includes work to improve transition planning and data sharing across relevant Departments and public bodies, to ensure appropriate careers support to help young people to make fully informed choices – including the development of new technology to support autistic learners through “how I work”, and to increase the range and accessibility of the pathways available.
However, greater coordination and coherence is needed across all Departments, services and settings, otherwise disabled young people who do not fit neatly into our respective Departmental remits remain at risk not receiving the support and services they deserve. This is of great concern to me and to many young people, parents and carers. It is an issue I have brought to the attention of Executive colleagues and one which I hope will also be picked up through the Executive’s Disability Strategy, which is being led by the Department for the Communities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050472%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=494089","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=494089"}},{"id":"493935","reference":"AQW 50324/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-02","answerBy":"2026-07-21","answered":"2026-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any actions her Department is taking to reduce transport-related costs and barriers, as identified in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I welcome the publication of The Joseph Rowntree Foundation report Disability and Poverty in NI and I acknowledge the financial pressures facing many disabled people. The report highlights the significant additional costs faced by many disabled people, including transport-related costs and barriers to accessing employment, services, and social opportunities.\n\nMy Department supports a range of measures to reduce transport costs and barriers for disabled people. Through the Concessionary Fares Scheme, eligible disabled people can access free or discounted travel on Translink services. Similar concessions are available on the Strangford and Rathlin Island ferry services through the SmartPass scheme. I had planned to reconsider the option to extend half fare travel to free travel again as part of my 2025/26 budget allocation decisions but due to a major ticketing systems upgrade in Translink, this was not possible. Officials are actively working in close collaboration with Translink to consider how this policy could be implemented should budget be available in the future.\n\nIn addition to concessionary fares, my Department provides financial support to the rural Dial-a-Lift transport service and the urban Disability Action Transport Scheme which offer alternative travel arrangements to those who it difficult or impossible to use mainstream public transport.\n\nWorking with Translink, my Department continues to improve the accessibility of public transport. All Metro and Glider buses are low-floor and wheelchair accessible, while the majority of Ulsterbus, Goldline, and rail services are accessible to wheelchair users. Translink also provides assisted travel services, accessibility journey information, and support for passengers with hearing and hidden disabilities.\n\nThrough its Accessibility Policy and Better-Connected Strategy, Translink continues to work with disability organisations to identify barriers to travel and improve the accessibility and inclusivity of public transport services across the north . My Department also works closely with the Inclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC) and other stakeholders to improve the accessibility of public transport services and infrastructure, ensuring that disabled people can travel more easily and independently. This includes the provision of accessible vehicles, stations, and passenger facilities.\n\nThis ongoing engagement has resulted in continued improvements to the public transport network to ensure that it better connects people to opportunities, including the many disabled people who currently use public transport services to get to work. I recognise that there remain accessibility challenges and I will continue to champion ongoing engagement to identify solutions to ensure that we have a public transport system that is more inclusive to the needs of everyone in society, including people with disabilities.\n\nAffordability remains a key priority. As of May 2026, it has been just under two years since bus fares last went up in the North. I took the decision to freeze public transport fares in the context of continuing cost of living pressures and to provide certainty to passengers. With fuel prices remaining high, I did not believe it would be right to increase fares and place further pressure on households who rely on buses and trains every day, including disabled people.\n\nKeeping fares stable helps support people at a challenging time and ensures public transport remains an affordable option for all.","answerHtml":"I welcome the publication of The Joseph Rowntree Foundation report Disability and Poverty in NI and I acknowledge the financial pressures facing many disabled people. The report highlights the significant additional costs faced by many disabled people, including transport-related costs and barriers to accessing employment, services, and social opportunities.
My Department supports a range of measures to reduce transport costs and barriers for disabled people. Through the Concessionary Fares Scheme, eligible disabled people can access free or discounted travel on Translink services. Similar concessions are available on the Strangford and Rathlin Island ferry services through the SmartPass scheme. I had planned to reconsider the option to extend half fare travel to free travel again as part of my 2025/26 budget allocation decisions but due to a major ticketing systems upgrade in Translink, this was not possible. Officials are actively working in close collaboration with Translink to consider how this policy could be implemented should budget be available in the future.
In addition to concessionary fares, my Department provides financial support to the rural Dial-a-Lift transport service and the urban Disability Action Transport Scheme which offer alternative travel arrangements to those who it difficult or impossible to use mainstream public transport.
Working with Translink, my Department continues to improve the accessibility of public transport. All Metro and Glider buses are low-floor and wheelchair accessible, while the majority of Ulsterbus, Goldline, and rail services are accessible to wheelchair users. Translink also provides assisted travel services, accessibility journey information, and support for passengers with hearing and hidden disabilities.
Through its Accessibility Policy and Better-Connected Strategy, Translink continues to work with disability organisations to identify barriers to travel and improve the accessibility and inclusivity of public transport services across the north . My Department also works closely with the Inclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC) and other stakeholders to improve the accessibility of public transport services and infrastructure, ensuring that disabled people can travel more easily and independently. This includes the provision of accessible vehicles, stations, and passenger facilities.
This ongoing engagement has resulted in continued improvements to the public transport network to ensure that it better connects people to opportunities, including the many disabled people who currently use public transport services to get to work. I recognise that there remain accessibility challenges and I will continue to champion ongoing engagement to identify solutions to ensure that we have a public transport system that is more inclusive to the needs of everyone in society, including people with disabilities.
Affordability remains a key priority. As of May 2026, it has been just under two years since bus fares last went up in the North. I took the decision to freeze public transport fares in the context of continuing cost of living pressures and to provide certainty to passengers. With fuel prices remaining high, I did not believe it would be right to increase fares and place further pressure on households who rely on buses and trains every day, including disabled people.
Keeping fares stable helps support people at a challenging time and ensures public transport remains an affordable option for all.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050324%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493935","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493935"}},{"id":"493934","reference":"AQW 50323/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-02","answerBy":"2026-07-21","answered":"2026-08-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following the May 2026 Joseph Rowntree Foundation report Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland, to detail any investment that is being made in early intervention and preventative care.","answerText":"I recognise the concerns highlighted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report (May 2026), particularly in relation to the impact that delays in health and social care services can have on disabled people’s health, independence, ability to work and financial wellbeing.\n\nWhile waiting lists across Health and Social Care remain under significant pressure due to increasing demand, workforce challenges and longstanding capacity constraints, my Department is taking forward a range of measures to improve access to care. During 2025/2026, Health and Social Care services delivered over 385,000 additional assessments, diagnostics and treatments through the Elective Care Framework. My Department continues to invest in elective care centres, diagnostic and treatment capacity, regional waiting-list initiatives, workforce recruitment and retention, and enhanced regional working across Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nMy Department is also progressing the 10-Year Reforming Adult Social Care and Support Strategic Plan (2026–2036) and accompanying Delivery Plan. These are focused on six strategic priorities: individual choice, support for unpaid carers, prevention and early intervention, the centrality of home, a valued workforce, and sustainable system building. The reforms are intended to support a greater shift towards preventative, person-centred and community-based models of care.\n\nPrevention and early intervention are key elements of this programme. Although in the current financial climate, we cannot invest as much as I would like to in this programme of work, work is underway to develop a preventative adult care and support framework to strengthen early intervention, maximise community assets and reduce reliance on crisis-led services. The Strategic Plan also promotes the use of digital, assistive and adaptive technologies to support independence and improve outcomes.\n\nIn March 2026, I published my Department’s vision for Neighbourhood Health and Wellbeing, which aims to deliver more care closer to home through strengthened prevention, early intervention and integration across health and social care services. As part of this transformation, Health and Social Care organisations will work towards shifting 2% of expenditure annually from hospital-based services to community-based provision over the three-year period commencing in 2026/2027. This will be delivered through the new neighbourhood model and the new Integrated Neighbourhood Teams.\n\nWork is ongoing with a range of external partners to support preventative and early intervention approaches, including Macmillan Cancer Support, AstraZeneca and the Regional Obesity Management Service.\n\nSupporting disabled people to remain independent is a key objective of these reforms. My Department is committed to increasing uptake of Self-Directed Support and Direct Payments, enabling individuals to exercise greater choice and control over how their care needs are met. Work continues with stakeholders, people with lived experience and Health and Social Care Trusts to improve access to these arrangements.\n\nIn addition, Health and Social Care Trusts continue to provide reablement, homecare and community-based support services that help people maintain independence and participate fully in community life.\n\nCollectively, these measures are intended to improve access to care, strengthen preventative services, reduce waiting times, support independence and reduce reliance on more intensive interventions over the longer term. My Department remains committed to improving outcomes for disabled people and ensuring they receive the care and support they require.","answerHtml":"I recognise the concerns highlighted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report (May 2026), particularly in relation to the impact that delays in health and social care services can have on disabled people’s health, independence, ability to work and financial wellbeing.
While waiting lists across Health and Social Care remain under significant pressure due to increasing demand, workforce challenges and longstanding capacity constraints, my Department is taking forward a range of measures to improve access to care. During 2025/2026, Health and Social Care services delivered over 385,000 additional assessments, diagnostics and treatments through the Elective Care Framework. My Department continues to invest in elective care centres, diagnostic and treatment capacity, regional waiting-list initiatives, workforce recruitment and retention, and enhanced regional working across Health and Social Care Trusts.
My Department is also progressing the 10-Year Reforming Adult Social Care and Support Strategic Plan (2026–2036) and accompanying Delivery Plan. These are focused on six strategic priorities: individual choice, support for unpaid carers, prevention and early intervention, the centrality of home, a valued workforce, and sustainable system building. The reforms are intended to support a greater shift towards preventative, person-centred and community-based models of care.
Prevention and early intervention are key elements of this programme. Although in the current financial climate, we cannot invest as much as I would like to in this programme of work, work is underway to develop a preventative adult care and support framework to strengthen early intervention, maximise community assets and reduce reliance on crisis-led services. The Strategic Plan also promotes the use of digital, assistive and adaptive technologies to support independence and improve outcomes.
In March 2026, I published my Department’s vision for Neighbourhood Health and Wellbeing, which aims to deliver more care closer to home through strengthened prevention, early intervention and integration across health and social care services. As part of this transformation, Health and Social Care organisations will work towards shifting 2% of expenditure annually from hospital-based services to community-based provision over the three-year period commencing in 2026/2027. This will be delivered through the new neighbourhood model and the new Integrated Neighbourhood Teams.
Work is ongoing with a range of external partners to support preventative and early intervention approaches, including Macmillan Cancer Support, AstraZeneca and the Regional Obesity Management Service.
Supporting disabled people to remain independent is a key objective of these reforms. My Department is committed to increasing uptake of Self-Directed Support and Direct Payments, enabling individuals to exercise greater choice and control over how their care needs are met. Work continues with stakeholders, people with lived experience and Health and Social Care Trusts to improve access to these arrangements.
In addition, Health and Social Care Trusts continue to provide reablement, homecare and community-based support services that help people maintain independence and participate fully in community life.
Collectively, these measures are intended to improve access to care, strengthen preventative services, reduce waiting times, support independence and reduce reliance on more intensive interventions over the longer term. My Department remains committed to improving outcomes for disabled people and ensuring they receive the care and support they require.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050323%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493934","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493934"}},{"id":"493933","reference":"AQW 50322/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-02","answerBy":"2026-07-21","answered":"2026-08-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following the May 2026 Joseph Rowntree Foundation report Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland, to detail any steps his Department is taking to address long waiting times and capacity constraints, given that they acerbate poverty for disabled people.","answerText":"I recognise the concerns highlighted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report (May 2026), particularly in relation to the impact that delays in health and social care services can have on disabled people’s health, independence, ability to work and financial wellbeing.\n\nWhile waiting lists across Health and Social Care remain under significant pressure due to increasing demand, workforce challenges and longstanding capacity constraints, my Department is taking forward a range of measures to improve access to care. During 2025/2026, Health and Social Care services delivered over 385,000 additional assessments, diagnostics and treatments through the Elective Care Framework. My Department continues to invest in elective care centres, diagnostic and treatment capacity, regional waiting-list initiatives, workforce recruitment and retention, and enhanced regional working across Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nMy Department is also progressing the 10-Year Reforming Adult Social Care and Support Strategic Plan (2026–2036) and accompanying Delivery Plan. These are focused on six strategic priorities: individual choice, support for unpaid carers, prevention and early intervention, the centrality of home, a valued workforce, and sustainable system building. The reforms are intended to support a greater shift towards preventative, person-centred and community-based models of care.\n\nPrevention and early intervention are key elements of this programme. Although in the current financial climate, we cannot invest as much as I would like to in this programme of work, work is underway to develop a preventative adult care and support framework to strengthen early intervention, maximise community assets and reduce reliance on crisis-led services. The Strategic Plan also promotes the use of digital, assistive and adaptive technologies to support independence and improve outcomes.\n\nIn March 2026, I published my Department’s vision for Neighbourhood Health and Wellbeing, which aims to deliver more care closer to home through strengthened prevention, early intervention and integration across health and social care services. As part of this transformation, Health and Social Care organisations will work towards shifting 2% of expenditure annually from hospital-based services to community-based provision over the three-year period commencing in 2026/2027. This will be delivered through the new neighbourhood model and the new Integrated Neighbourhood Teams.\n\nWork is ongoing with a range of external partners to support preventative and early intervention approaches, including Macmillan Cancer Support, AstraZeneca and the Regional Obesity Management Service.\n\nSupporting disabled people to remain independent is a key objective of these reforms. My Department is committed to increasing uptake of Self-Directed Support and Direct Payments, enabling individuals to exercise greater choice and control over how their care needs are met. Work continues with stakeholders, people with lived experience and Health and Social Care Trusts to improve access to these arrangements.\n\nIn addition, Health and Social Care Trusts continue to provide reablement, homecare and community-based support services that help people maintain independence and participate fully in community life.\n\nCollectively, these measures are intended to improve access to care, strengthen preventative services, reduce waiting times, support independence and reduce reliance on more intensive interventions over the longer term. My Department remains committed to improving outcomes for disabled people and ensuring they receive the care and support they require.","answerHtml":"I recognise the concerns highlighted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report (May 2026), particularly in relation to the impact that delays in health and social care services can have on disabled people’s health, independence, ability to work and financial wellbeing.
While waiting lists across Health and Social Care remain under significant pressure due to increasing demand, workforce challenges and longstanding capacity constraints, my Department is taking forward a range of measures to improve access to care. During 2025/2026, Health and Social Care services delivered over 385,000 additional assessments, diagnostics and treatments through the Elective Care Framework. My Department continues to invest in elective care centres, diagnostic and treatment capacity, regional waiting-list initiatives, workforce recruitment and retention, and enhanced regional working across Health and Social Care Trusts.
My Department is also progressing the 10-Year Reforming Adult Social Care and Support Strategic Plan (2026–2036) and accompanying Delivery Plan. These are focused on six strategic priorities: individual choice, support for unpaid carers, prevention and early intervention, the centrality of home, a valued workforce, and sustainable system building. The reforms are intended to support a greater shift towards preventative, person-centred and community-based models of care.
Prevention and early intervention are key elements of this programme. Although in the current financial climate, we cannot invest as much as I would like to in this programme of work, work is underway to develop a preventative adult care and support framework to strengthen early intervention, maximise community assets and reduce reliance on crisis-led services. The Strategic Plan also promotes the use of digital, assistive and adaptive technologies to support independence and improve outcomes.
In March 2026, I published my Department’s vision for Neighbourhood Health and Wellbeing, which aims to deliver more care closer to home through strengthened prevention, early intervention and integration across health and social care services. As part of this transformation, Health and Social Care organisations will work towards shifting 2% of expenditure annually from hospital-based services to community-based provision over the three-year period commencing in 2026/2027. This will be delivered through the new neighbourhood model and the new Integrated Neighbourhood Teams.
Work is ongoing with a range of external partners to support preventative and early intervention approaches, including Macmillan Cancer Support, AstraZeneca and the Regional Obesity Management Service.
Supporting disabled people to remain independent is a key objective of these reforms. My Department is committed to increasing uptake of Self-Directed Support and Direct Payments, enabling individuals to exercise greater choice and control over how their care needs are met. Work continues with stakeholders, people with lived experience and Health and Social Care Trusts to improve access to these arrangements.
In addition, Health and Social Care Trusts continue to provide reablement, homecare and community-based support services that help people maintain independence and participate fully in community life.
Collectively, these measures are intended to improve access to care, strengthen preventative services, reduce waiting times, support independence and reduce reliance on more intensive interventions over the longer term. My Department remains committed to improving outcomes for disabled people and ensuring they receive the care and support they require.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050322%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493933","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493933"}},{"id":"493932","reference":"AQW 50321/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-02","answerBy":"2026-07-21","answered":"2026-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any reforms planned to improve post-19 transitions for young people with special educational needs, given issues raised in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Post 19 provision is the responsibility of the Minister for the Economy. My department is collaborating with colleagues from the Departments for the Economy, Health and Communities to ensure young people receive the support they need when transitioning from school to adult life.\n\nDeveloping appropriate transitions support and pathways for post 16 and post 19 of young people with special educational needs (SEN) is a key priority within my SEN Reform Agenda. I am committed to strengthening this collaboration as officials continue to engage with departments, agencies and the voluntary and community sector to explore all opportunities to support learners with SEN as they leave education.","answerHtml":"Post 19 provision is the responsibility of the Minister for the Economy. My department is collaborating with colleagues from the Departments for the Economy, Health and Communities to ensure young people receive the support they need when transitioning from school to adult life.
Developing appropriate transitions support and pathways for post 16 and post 19 of young people with special educational needs (SEN) is a key priority within my SEN Reform Agenda. I am committed to strengthening this collaboration as officials continue to engage with departments, agencies and the voluntary and community sector to explore all opportunities to support learners with SEN as they leave education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050321%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493932","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493932"}},{"id":"493931","reference":"AQW 50320/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-02","answerBy":"2026-07-21","answered":"2026-08-06","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) targets; (ii) indicators; and (iii) timelines, his Department is using to reduce poverty among disabled people, in response to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Ensuring that Deaf and disabled people have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of our community remains a key priority for me. My Department is taking action to improve outcomes for those affected by, and at risk of being affected by poverty.\n\nActions to address the root causes and impacts of poverty, including for people who are Deaf and disabled, will be taken forward through the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy.\n\nThis will be accompanied by an action plan with clear delivery milestones and targets on putting actions in place to ensure that the Executive is delivering. The Monitoring, Reporting and Governance section of the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains details on a proposed suite of measures and monitoring structures designed to track progress of the actions to tackle poverty.\n\nWhile the Department for Communities is leading on the Anti-Poverty Strategy, it remains an Executive Strategy and final decisions its content and implementation will be subject to Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"Ensuring that Deaf and disabled people have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of our community remains a key priority for me. My Department is taking action to improve outcomes for those affected by, and at risk of being affected by poverty.
Actions to address the root causes and impacts of poverty, including for people who are Deaf and disabled, will be taken forward through the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy.
This will be accompanied by an action plan with clear delivery milestones and targets on putting actions in place to ensure that the Executive is delivering. The Monitoring, Reporting and Governance section of the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains details on a proposed suite of measures and monitoring structures designed to track progress of the actions to tackle poverty.
While the Department for Communities is leading on the Anti-Poverty Strategy, it remains an Executive Strategy and final decisions its content and implementation 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%2050320%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493931","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493931"}},{"id":"493720","reference":"AQW 50185/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any steps his Department is taking to address the rising prevalence of disability among children, as identified in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Diagnosis of, and prevalence rates of, disability are a matter for the Minister of Health.","answerHtml":"Diagnosis of, and prevalence rates of, disability are a matter for the Minister of Health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050185%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493720","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493720"}},{"id":"493719","reference":"AQW 50184/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-07-07","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 detail any steps her Department plan to take to reduce the number of disabled young people, not in education, employment or training, as highlighted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's report, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I recognise that disabled learners can face additional barriers to participating in education, employment and training. Reducing the number of disabled young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) requires input from a range of Departments. My Department is working in partnership with the Department for Communities and the Department of Health to deliver the Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project which aims to align skills, employment and health service to support employment outcomes for those with ill health and disabilities, including young people.\n\nI recently consulted on the Review of Approach to Widening Participation in Higher Education, which recognised that those experiencing the greatest disadvantage in our society often face significant barriers to accessing, participating in and succeeding in higher education. The consultation proposes that disabled learners and those with Special Educational Needs (SEN) should be recognised as priority groups within the Educational and Learning Needs category of a refreshed widening participation framework. It emphasises the need for tailored support, flexible progression pathways, inclusive learning environments, and improved educational and employment outcomes.\n\nIn addition, my Department is progressing a range of actions aimed at improving post-school outcomes for disabled young people and reducing the risk of those with Special Educational Needs becoming disengaged from education, employment or training. This includes work to strengthen transition planning, careers support, further education provision, data sharing and the evidence base used to inform future policy development.","answerHtml":"I recognise that disabled learners can face additional barriers to participating in education, employment and training. Reducing the number of disabled young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) requires input from a range of Departments. My Department is working in partnership with the Department for Communities and the Department of Health to deliver the Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project which aims to align skills, employment and health service to support employment outcomes for those with ill health and disabilities, including young people.
I recently consulted on the Review of Approach to Widening Participation in Higher Education, which recognised that those experiencing the greatest disadvantage in our society often face significant barriers to accessing, participating in and succeeding in higher education. The consultation proposes that disabled learners and those with Special Educational Needs (SEN) should be recognised as priority groups within the Educational and Learning Needs category of a refreshed widening participation framework. It emphasises the need for tailored support, flexible progression pathways, inclusive learning environments, and improved educational and employment outcomes.
In addition, my Department is progressing a range of actions aimed at improving post-school outcomes for disabled young people and reducing the risk of those with Special Educational Needs becoming disengaged from education, employment or training. This includes work to strengthen transition planning, careers support, further education provision, data sharing and the evidence base used to inform future policy development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050184%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493719","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493719"}},{"id":"493718","reference":"AQW 50183/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps being taken to ensure adequate, accessible, and affordable housing is available, in light of the findings of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Executive Housing Supply Strategy sets the 15-year framework for the action required to address the whole system issues impacting on housing supply here and to ensure that everyone has access to a good quality, affordable and sustainable home.\n\nAs part of the implementation of the Strategy, the Executive has recently approved the first 3-year Action Plan detailing initial actions which Departments will take forward, and I intend to publish this shortly.\n\nAlongside this wider strategic work, I continue to deliver specific actions to improve supply and access to, affordable housing. This includes pressing for more funding to deliver social housing for those most in need, resulting in a record £210 million allocated to the Social Housing Development Programme in 2025–26. There are now more than 6,000 social houses on site across Northern Ireland.\n\nIn expanding access to a wider range of affordable options, I recently announced a £61.5 million Financial Transactions Capital loan investment, in partnership with housing provider Maple and May, to deliver the first 300 highquality, long term affordable rent homes at a 20% discount on market rents aimed at lower income households.\n\nIn addition, last year I announced £153 million of Financial Transactions Capital funding to Co-Ownership to support 4,000 households to buy their own home over the next four years. This will provide an affordable route into home ownership for those who would otherwise be unable to purchase their own home.","answerHtml":"The Executive Housing Supply Strategy sets the 15-year framework for the action required to address the whole system issues impacting on housing supply here and to ensure that everyone has access to a good quality, affordable and sustainable home.
As part of the implementation of the Strategy, the Executive has recently approved the first 3-year Action Plan detailing initial actions which Departments will take forward, and I intend to publish this shortly.
Alongside this wider strategic work, I continue to deliver specific actions to improve supply and access to, affordable housing. This includes pressing for more funding to deliver social housing for those most in need, resulting in a record £210 million allocated to the Social Housing Development Programme in 2025–26. There are now more than 6,000 social houses on site across Northern Ireland.
In expanding access to a wider range of affordable options, I recently announced a £61.5 million Financial Transactions Capital loan investment, in partnership with housing provider Maple and May, to deliver the first 300 highquality, long term affordable rent homes at a 20% discount on market rents aimed at lower income households.
In addition, last year I announced £153 million of Financial Transactions Capital funding to Co-Ownership to support 4,000 households to buy their own home over the next four years. This will provide an affordable route into home ownership for those who would otherwise be unable to purchase their own home.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050183%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493718","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493718"}},{"id":"493717","reference":"AQW 50182/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-07-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps their Department is taking to ensure the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy addresses the disproportionately high poverty rate among disabled people, 30 per cent compared to 16 per cent, as identified in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Executive aims to address the higher poverty rate experienced by disabled people, referenced in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s Report, using a variety of interventions across the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy, the Executive Disability Strategy, and the Disability and Work Strategy. These represent combined efforts to address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people, ensuring that they have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of our community.\n\nAligned to these Strategies, my Department’s initiatives such as the Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project offer key opportunities to help more disabled people and people with health conditions to find and progress in employment.\n\nWe will continue to seek to include the voices and experiences of people with disabilities throughout the lifespan of the Anti-Poverty Strategy.","answerHtml":"The Executive aims to address the higher poverty rate experienced by disabled people, referenced in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s Report, using a variety of interventions across the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy, the Executive Disability Strategy, and the Disability and Work Strategy. These represent combined efforts to address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people, ensuring that they have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of our community.
Aligned to these Strategies, my Department’s initiatives such as the Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project offer key opportunities to help more disabled people and people with health conditions to find and progress in employment.
We will continue to seek to include the voices and experiences of people with disabilities throughout the lifespan of the Anti-Poverty Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050182%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493717","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493717"}},{"id":"493716","reference":"AQW 50181/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-07-15","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 to detail any steps being taken to address weaknesses in equality legislation, as identified in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"There are extensive legal protections in place in respect of equality in this jurisdiction. The Executive Office (TEO) continues to engage with departments and stakeholders, including the Equality Commission for NI, on issues relating to improving equality and human rights protections here.\n\nThe Committee for the Executive Office continues to examine gaps in equality legislation, and TEO officials are currently awaiting the findings of the Committee’s Inquiry into Gaps in Equality Legislation.","answerHtml":"There are extensive legal protections in place in respect of equality in this jurisdiction. The Executive Office (TEO) continues to engage with departments and stakeholders, including the Equality Commission for NI, on issues relating to improving equality and human rights protections here.
The Committee for the Executive Office continues to examine gaps in equality legislation, and TEO officials are currently awaiting the findings of the Committee’s Inquiry into Gaps in Equality Legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050181%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493716","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493716"}},{"id":"493546","reference":"AQW 50028/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-30","answerBy":"2026-07-17","answered":"2026-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether any assessment has been made of the impact of waiting for an initial mental health assessment on patient safety and wellbeing, including any monitoring of adverse outcomes such as Emergency Department presentations, psychiatric admissions, self-harm incidents and deaths; and (ii) to detail any support arrangements that are in place for individuals whose condition deteriorates while waiting.","answerText":"Article 10A of the Health and Social Care Act (NI) 2022 provides for Health and Social Care Trusts becoming directly responsible for social care and children’s functions directed to them under Directed Statutory Functions by the Department. The Director of Social Work Mental Health and Disability Directorate in the Strategic Planning and Performance Group has responsibility for the professional oversight, governance, performance management and accountability, and strategic oversight of Trusts in relation to the exercise of social care and children’s statutory functions. Under Directed Statutory Functions accessibility to Mental Health Services are assessed.\n\nTrusts also have robust governance arrangements in place to ensure Mental Health Services meet expected standards in terms of support for families and carers, in line with the expressed wishes of patients. Clinical governance frameworks operate across corporate, divisional, and team levels, supported by senior oversight and multidisciplinary input.\n\nCollectively, these arrangements ensure ongoing oversight of service delivery and support continuous improvement in access, safety, and quality of care.\n\nFor those Individuals waiting assessment who have been identified and meet the definition of an adverse incident, a clear process is in place to manage the same. This process outlines roles and responsibilities of all staff, guidance on the review process and supports for staff inclusive of reporting to the Department.\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust:\n\nThe Belfast Health and Social Care Trust acknowledge the importance of timely access to Mental Health Services and the impact that waiting times can have upon service users. Individuals whose mental health deteriorates whilst awaiting routine assessment can access a range of urgent and Crisis support services, with referrals prioritised according to clinical need.\n\nNorthern Health and Social Care Trust:\n\nThe Northern Health and Social Care Trust provides urgent Mental Health assessment through its Urgent Mental Health Service (UMHS). The service delivers community-based assessments via the Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Team (CRHTT) within four hours of referral, and assessments within two hours of referral for patients presenting through Emergency Departments or Acute Hospital settings via the Mental Health Liaison Service (MHLS). Same day assessment is offered by CMHTs for those who experience a deterioration in their Mental Health who are known to the team\n\nSouth Eastern Health and Social Care Trust:\n\nIn the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, a stepped care approach is in place to support individuals whose condition deteriorates. A number of measures are established;\n\nReview via GP with potential for earlier appointment &/or a step up in referral type e.g. routine to urgent\n\nReferral to Home Treatment Teams\n\nAccess to Emergency Departments where liaison services assess people in crisis\n\nEscalation within services for those already known.\n\nSouthern Health and Social Care Trust:\n\nWhen referrals are received in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, they are triaged and allocated according to clinical presentation and reported risk issues. The service user will receive a letter with the triage outcome including associated useful contacts and advice on what to do should mood deteriorate while waiting. Service users referred to adult psychological therapies and waiting on assessment are provided with ‘while you wait’ resources and access to an online library of healthcare Apps.\n\nThe Trust adhere to Department of Health Integrated Elective Access Protocols in respect of managing waiting lists. If the service user experiences a change in clinical presentation while waiting initial assessment, they can contact their GP and seek additional support and advice, which may include reprioritising referral priority or referral to the Home Treatment Team. The Trust have clear processes in place for updating wait list priority should they become aware of change to risk profile for the person waiting assessment.\n\nWestern Health and Social Care Trust:\n\nThe Western Health and Social Care Trust operate a 24/7 Crisis service which can be accessed through Emergency Department attendance. Once assessment takes place, the appropriate pathway/service is identified to include inpatient admission, home treatment support in community, link/referral to appropriate community team or Community and Voluntary agency dependent on assessed need. If a patient is discharged from a community team and experiences a decline in mental health, GPs can refer back into appropriate service and grade as urgent, or the patient can access a 24/7 Crisis service.","answerHtml":"Article 10A of the Health and Social Care Act (NI) 2022 provides for Health and Social Care Trusts becoming directly responsible for social care and children’s functions directed to them under Directed Statutory Functions by the Department. The Director of Social Work Mental Health and Disability Directorate in the Strategic Planning and Performance Group has responsibility for the professional oversight, governance, performance management and accountability, and strategic oversight of Trusts in relation to the exercise of social care and children’s statutory functions. Under Directed Statutory Functions accessibility to Mental Health Services are assessed.
Trusts also have robust governance arrangements in place to ensure Mental Health Services meet expected standards in terms of support for families and carers, in line with the expressed wishes of patients. Clinical governance frameworks operate across corporate, divisional, and team levels, supported by senior oversight and multidisciplinary input.
Collectively, these arrangements ensure ongoing oversight of service delivery and support continuous improvement in access, safety, and quality of care.
For those Individuals waiting assessment who have been identified and meet the definition of an adverse incident, a clear process is in place to manage the same. This process outlines roles and responsibilities of all staff, guidance on the review process and supports for staff inclusive of reporting to the Department.
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust:
The Belfast Health and Social Care Trust acknowledge the importance of timely access to Mental Health Services and the impact that waiting times can have upon service users. Individuals whose mental health deteriorates whilst awaiting routine assessment can access a range of urgent and Crisis support services, with referrals prioritised according to clinical need.
Northern Health and Social Care Trust:
The Northern Health and Social Care Trust provides urgent Mental Health assessment through its Urgent Mental Health Service (UMHS). The service delivers community-based assessments via the Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Team (CRHTT) within four hours of referral, and assessments within two hours of referral for patients presenting through Emergency Departments or Acute Hospital settings via the Mental Health Liaison Service (MHLS). Same day assessment is offered by CMHTs for those who experience a deterioration in their Mental Health who are known to the team
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust:
In the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, a stepped care approach is in place to support individuals whose condition deteriorates. A number of measures are established;
Review via GP with potential for earlier appointment &/or a step up in referral type e.g. routine to urgent
Referral to Home Treatment Teams
Access to Emergency Departments where liaison services assess people in crisis
Escalation within services for those already known.
Southern Health and Social Care Trust:
When referrals are received in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, they are triaged and allocated according to clinical presentation and reported risk issues. The service user will receive a letter with the triage outcome including associated useful contacts and advice on what to do should mood deteriorate while waiting. Service users referred to adult psychological therapies and waiting on assessment are provided with ‘while you wait’ resources and access to an online library of healthcare Apps.
The Trust adhere to Department of Health Integrated Elective Access Protocols in respect of managing waiting lists. If the service user experiences a change in clinical presentation while waiting initial assessment, they can contact their GP and seek additional support and advice, which may include reprioritising referral priority or referral to the Home Treatment Team. The Trust have clear processes in place for updating wait list priority should they become aware of change to risk profile for the person waiting assessment.
Western Health and Social Care Trust:
The Western Health and Social Care Trust operate a 24/7 Crisis service which can be accessed through Emergency Department attendance. Once assessment takes place, the appropriate pathway/service is identified to include inpatient admission, home treatment support in community, link/referral to appropriate community team or Community and Voluntary agency dependent on assessed need. If a patient is discharged from a community team and experiences a decline in mental health, GPs can refer back into appropriate service and grade as urgent, or the patient can access a 24/7 Crisis service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050028%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493546","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493546"}},{"id":"493545","reference":"AQW 50027/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-30","answerBy":"2026-07-17","answered":"2026-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any plans in place to extend early years childcare support to younger children, to support parental employment and progression.","answerText":"Financial assistance to support parental employment and progression is available through the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS). The Scheme provides a 15% saving on eligible childcare costs, with His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) Tax-Free Childcare (TFC) scheme offering an additional 20% reduction. The scheme is open to eligible working parents. with children from birth up until 1st September after their 11th birthday.\n\nIn the draft Executive Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy, I set out a clear intention to increase the support provided through the NICSS to a 20% subsidy from April 2026 as part of a phased approach to improving affordability. However, at this stage an Executive Budget has not yet been agreed, and the proposed draft Budget as it stands does not provide sufficient ELC funding to progress all actions within the draft Strategy.\n\nIn addition, while I am clear that pre-school education provision for target age children in the year before starting primary school is not childcare, the time spent in a funded pre-school place has an impact on the childcare needs of working families. I am therefore, committed to continue to transition funded pre-school education places to universal full-time provision (22.5 hrs per week), over time for all target age children as part of the Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy.","answerHtml":"Financial assistance to support parental employment and progression is available through the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS). The Scheme provides a 15% saving on eligible childcare costs, with His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) Tax-Free Childcare (TFC) scheme offering an additional 20% reduction. The scheme is open to eligible working parents. with children from birth up until 1st September after their 11th birthday.
In the draft Executive Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy, I set out a clear intention to increase the support provided through the NICSS to a 20% subsidy from April 2026 as part of a phased approach to improving affordability. However, at this stage an Executive Budget has not yet been agreed, and the proposed draft Budget as it stands does not provide sufficient ELC funding to progress all actions within the draft Strategy.
In addition, while I am clear that pre-school education provision for target age children in the year before starting primary school is not childcare, the time spent in a funded pre-school place has an impact on the childcare needs of working families. I am therefore, committed to continue to transition funded pre-school education places to universal full-time provision (22.5 hrs per week), over time for all target age children as part of the Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050027%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493545","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493545"}},{"id":"493544","reference":"AQW 50026/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-30","answerBy":"2026-07-17","answered":"2026-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any plans to improve access to affordable and flexible childcare, including provision outside of standard school hours.","answerText":"Improving access to affordable and flexible childcare, including school age childcare, has been a key consideration in the development of the draft Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy. The Strategy has been informed by extensive engagement with childcare stakeholders, including SAC providers and representative organisations, to ensure that the needs of families requiring affordable and flexible childcare are reflected.\n\nIn September 2025, I expanded the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) to include eligible parents with school-age children (aged 4-11). This provides eligible working parents with an upfront 15% reduction in childcare costs, in addition to the 20% support available through the Tax-Free Childcare (TFC) Scheme. I also plan through the Strategy to improve the information available for families when making choices about their childcare arrangements.\n\nThe draft strategy sets out a number of actions to improve accessibility to childcare provision. These include proposals to increase the numbers of Approved Home Childcarers, who can look after a child in their own home. The draft strategy also includes an action, led by DfE, to support childcare providers who are facing sustainability challenges through the establishment of a specialist childcare business advisory service and the development of a Strategic Childcare Accessibility Fund. This Fund will be informed by mapping of supply and demand of childcare by area, which will initially focus on: areas of disadvantage, provision for children with additional needs, rural provision, social enterprise provision, families working atypical hours and wraparound care within the schools estate.","answerHtml":"Improving access to affordable and flexible childcare, including school age childcare, has been a key consideration in the development of the draft Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy. The Strategy has been informed by extensive engagement with childcare stakeholders, including SAC providers and representative organisations, to ensure that the needs of families requiring affordable and flexible childcare are reflected.
In September 2025, I expanded the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) to include eligible parents with school-age children (aged 4-11). This provides eligible working parents with an upfront 15% reduction in childcare costs, in addition to the 20% support available through the Tax-Free Childcare (TFC) Scheme. I also plan through the Strategy to improve the information available for families when making choices about their childcare arrangements.
The draft strategy sets out a number of actions to improve accessibility to childcare provision. These include proposals to increase the numbers of Approved Home Childcarers, who can look after a child in their own home. The draft strategy also includes an action, led by DfE, to support childcare providers who are facing sustainability challenges through the establishment of a specialist childcare business advisory service and the development of a Strategic Childcare Accessibility Fund. This Fund will be informed by mapping of supply and demand of childcare by area, which will initially focus on: areas of disadvantage, provision for children with additional needs, rural provision, social enterprise provision, families working atypical hours and wraparound care within the schools estate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050026%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493544","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493544"}},{"id":"493543","reference":"AQW 50025/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-30","answerBy":"2026-07-17","answered":"2026-07-07","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 detail any plans she has to strengthen collaboration between employers, training providers and government, to better align skills provision with local labour market needs.","answerText":"I am committed to strengthening collaboration between employers, training providers and government to ensure that skills provision remains responsive to the needs of the North of Ireland economy.\n\nThrough established Sectoral Partnerships, employers, training providers and industry representatives work together to shape apprenticeship frameworks, helping to ensure that provision reflects current and emerging skills needs.\n\nThe Department also engages regularly with employers, Further Education colleges, higher education institutions and training organisations to inform the development and delivery of skills programmes such as Assured Skills Academies which directly aligned to labour market demand, delivering pre-employment training helping individuals gain the skills they need to compete for guaranteed job vacancies.\n\nEngagement with employers, providers and sectoral groups, including the Green Skills Delivery Group, helps identify current and emerging skills needs and informs policy and programme design.\n\nIn addition, the Department draws on labour market intelligence, including the Skills Barometer and Employer Skills Survey, to identify skills shortages and future workforce requirements. This evidence is used to inform policy development and investment decisions, helping to align publicly funded skills provision with labour market demand and economic priorities.\n\nI will continue to promote strong partnership working between employers, training providers and government, supported by robust labour market evidence, to ensure that skills provision is aligned with the needs of businesses, supports economic growth and provides individuals with pathways to sustainable employment.","answerHtml":"I am committed to strengthening collaboration between employers, training providers and government to ensure that skills provision remains responsive to the needs of the North of Ireland economy.
Through established Sectoral Partnerships, employers, training providers and industry representatives work together to shape apprenticeship frameworks, helping to ensure that provision reflects current and emerging skills needs.
The Department also engages regularly with employers, Further Education colleges, higher education institutions and training organisations to inform the development and delivery of skills programmes such as Assured Skills Academies which directly aligned to labour market demand, delivering pre-employment training helping individuals gain the skills they need to compete for guaranteed job vacancies.
Engagement with employers, providers and sectoral groups, including the Green Skills Delivery Group, helps identify current and emerging skills needs and informs policy and programme design.
In addition, the Department draws on labour market intelligence, including the Skills Barometer and Employer Skills Survey, to identify skills shortages and future workforce requirements. This evidence is used to inform policy development and investment decisions, helping to align publicly funded skills provision with labour market demand and economic priorities.
I will continue to promote strong partnership working between employers, training providers and government, supported by robust labour market evidence, to ensure that skills provision is aligned with the needs of businesses, supports economic growth and provides individuals with pathways to sustainable employment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050025%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493543","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493543"}},{"id":"493542","reference":"AQW 50024/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-30","answerBy":"2026-07-17","answered":"2026-07-07","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 detail any steps that are being taken to expand access to flexible and affordable skills and training provision for parents with caring responsibilities, given evidence that access to training among low income working parents remains limited.","answerText":"My Department recently consulted on a review of the approach to widening participation in higher education, which recognised the barriers faced by those with caring responsibilities and proposed their inclusion within the priority group framework.\n\nBuilding on this wider policy work, my Department also seeks to improve access through Assured Skills Academies, where training hours and delivery times are considered during academy development and adapted where appropriate to support participants with caring responsibilities.\n\nTo reduce financial barriers, participants receive a weekly training allowance of £185, with support for travel and childcare expenses for the duration of training.","answerHtml":"My Department recently consulted on a review of the approach to widening participation in higher education, which recognised the barriers faced by those with caring responsibilities and proposed their inclusion within the priority group framework.
Building on this wider policy work, my Department also seeks to improve access through Assured Skills Academies, where training hours and delivery times are considered during academy development and adapted where appropriate to support participants with caring responsibilities.
To reduce financial barriers, participants receive a weekly training allowance of £185, with support for travel and childcare expenses for the duration of training.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050024%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493542","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493542"}},{"id":"493258","reference":"AQW 49877/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-29","answerBy":"2026-07-16","answered":"2026-07-07","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 detail any actions her Department is taking to support progression and wage growth among low income workers, in recognition that increases in earnings are a key factor in enabling families to move out of poverty.","answerText":"My Department recognises the importance of inwork progression in supporting a more productive and inclusive economy. It is important to note that progression within employment and wage growth is shaped significantly by employer practices, business need and wider labour market conditions.\n\nA range of programmes, including Skills Focus, Assured Skills, ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeships, are designed to support individuals to upskill and progress within employment into highervalue roles.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the importance of inwork progression in supporting a more productive and inclusive economy. It is important to note that progression within employment and wage growth is shaped significantly by employer practices, business need and wider labour market conditions.
A range of programmes, including Skills Focus, Assured Skills, ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeships, are designed to support individuals to upskill and progress within employment into highervalue roles.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049877%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493258","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493258"}},{"id":"493257","reference":"AQW 49876/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-29","answerBy":"2026-07-16","answered":"2026-07-07","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 detail any steps her Department is taking to ensure additional support is available for parents seeking training while working.","answerText":"My Department funds a range of student support measures designed to reduce the barriers associated with childcare so that parents can undertake Further Education (FE) and upskilling whilst working. Across the FE colleges, the FE Grants and the Hardship Fund provide financial support with registered childcare costs for eligible students aged 18 and over. In addition, the Care to Learn Scheme provides financial support towards registered childcare costs for eligible students aged 16 to 19 within FE.\n\nFor Higher Education (HE), I recently consulted on a review of approach to widening participation which recognised that those with caring responsibilities and adult returners face particular barriers to accessing, and progressing within, provision. The consultation proposed the inclusion of these cohorts in the framework of priority groups, referencing the need for inclusive and flexible entry routes and tailored support.","answerHtml":"My Department funds a range of student support measures designed to reduce the barriers associated with childcare so that parents can undertake Further Education (FE) and upskilling whilst working. Across the FE colleges, the FE Grants and the Hardship Fund provide financial support with registered childcare costs for eligible students aged 18 and over. In addition, the Care to Learn Scheme provides financial support towards registered childcare costs for eligible students aged 16 to 19 within FE.
For Higher Education (HE), I recently consulted on a review of approach to widening participation which recognised that those with caring responsibilities and adult returners face particular barriers to accessing, and progressing within, provision. The consultation proposed the inclusion of these cohorts in the framework of priority groups, referencing the need for inclusive and flexible entry routes and tailored support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049876%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493257","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493257"}},{"id":"493256","reference":"AQW 49875/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-29","answerBy":"2026-07-16","answered":"2026-07-02","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 detail any steps her Department is taking to support second earners, particularly women.","answerText":"My Department recognises the importance of supporting second earners, particularly women, as part of a more inclusive and productive labour market.\n\nWhile the Department for Communities is the policy lead for supporting individuals into employment, my Department plays a key role in supporting skills development for those entering or seeking to progress within the labour market. Skills interventions such as Assured Skills Academies, ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeships are open to all those who meet the minimum criteria including second earners.\n\nI have also consulted on a review of approach to Widening Participation in Higher Education which included adult returners and carers as proposed priority groups.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the importance of supporting second earners, particularly women, as part of a more inclusive and productive labour market.
While the Department for Communities is the policy lead for supporting individuals into employment, my Department plays a key role in supporting skills development for those entering or seeking to progress within the labour market. Skills interventions such as Assured Skills Academies, ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeships are open to all those who meet the minimum criteria including second earners.
I have also consulted on a review of approach to Widening Participation in Higher Education which included adult returners and carers as proposed priority groups.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049875%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493256","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493256"}},{"id":"493255","reference":"AQW 49874/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-29","answerBy":"2026-07-16","answered":"2026-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any measurable targets set to reduce disability poverty, in light of the findings of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland, including any associated timelines.","answerText":"Ensuring that Deaf and disabled people have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of our community remains a key priority for me. My Department is taking action to improve outcomes for those affected by, and at risk of being affected by poverty.\n\nActions to address the root causes and impacts of poverty, including for people who are Deaf and disabled, will be taken forward through the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy\n\nThis will be accompanied by an action plan with clear delivery milestones and targets on putting actions in place to ensure that the Executive is delivering. The Monitoring, Reporting and Governance section of the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains details on a proposed suite of measures and monitoring structures designed to track progress of the actions to tackle poverty.\n\nWhile the Department for Communities is leading on the Anti-Poverty Strategy, it remains an Executive Strategy and final decisions its content and implementation will be subject to Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"Ensuring that Deaf and disabled people have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of our community remains a key priority for me. My Department is taking action to improve outcomes for those affected by, and at risk of being affected by poverty.
Actions to address the root causes and impacts of poverty, including for people who are Deaf and disabled, will be taken forward through the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy
This will be accompanied by an action plan with clear delivery milestones and targets on putting actions in place to ensure that the Executive is delivering. The Monitoring, Reporting and Governance section of the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains details on a proposed suite of measures and monitoring structures designed to track progress of the actions to tackle poverty.
While the Department for Communities is leading on the Anti-Poverty Strategy, it remains an Executive Strategy and final decisions its content and implementation 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%2049874%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493255","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493255"}},{"id":"493254","reference":"AQW 49873/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-29","answerBy":"2026-07-16","answered":"2026-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps they will take to ensure that policy delivery closes the gap between stated ambition and lived experience, as highlighted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy sets out the NI Executive’s commitment to a joined up, long-term work to reduce socio-economic disadvantage and for everyone affected, including Deaf and disabled people. My officials are currently working on taking forward any further development of the Strategy before it is finalised and presented to the Executive for their consideration.\n\nThis will complement and support the development and implementation of both an Executive Disability Strategy, and a Disability and Work Strategy, which will help address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people. This includes those at economic disadvantage as referenced in the Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report. Drafts of both Strategies have undergone public consultation to ensure that the voices of Deaf and disabled people are given the fullest consideration.\n\nAligned to these Strategies, initiatives such as the Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project offer key opportunities to help more disabled people and people with health conditions to find and progress in employment.\n\nWe will continue to seek to include the voices and experiences of people with disabilities throughout the lifespan of the Anti-Poverty Strategy.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy sets out the NI Executive’s commitment to a joined up, long-term work to reduce socio-economic disadvantage and for everyone affected, including Deaf and disabled people. My officials are currently working on taking forward any further development of the Strategy before it is finalised and presented to the Executive for their consideration.
This will complement and support the development and implementation of both an Executive Disability Strategy, and a Disability and Work Strategy, which will help address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people. This includes those at economic disadvantage as referenced in the Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report. Drafts of both Strategies have undergone public consultation to ensure that the voices of Deaf and disabled people are given the fullest consideration.
Aligned to these Strategies, initiatives such as the Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project offer key opportunities to help more disabled people and people with health conditions to find and progress in employment.
We will continue to seek to include the voices and experiences of people with disabilities throughout the lifespan of the Anti-Poverty Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049873%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493254","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493254"}},{"id":"492965","reference":"AQW 49752/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-26","answerBy":"2026-07-15","answered":"2026-08-05","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 she has considered using procurement or other policy levers, to encourage employers to offer more flexible, secure, and higher quality jobs.","answerText":"My Department’s Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill, its development of a Good Jobs Charter, our partnership and funding for the Real Living Wage franchise and continued targeted investment from InvestNI are all important policy levers that already recognise, support and encourage employers to offer more flexible, secure, and higher quality jobs.\n\nThe Good Jobs Employment Right Bill will help deliver greater flexibility for workers and employers, with improvements to flexible working, family-related rights and employee voice being key factors in creating higher quality jobs and increasing productivity.\n\nThe Real Living Wage franchise is encouraging ever greater numbers of organisations to become accredited real living wage employers. Invest NI investment also reflects this direction of travel, with support focused on roles paying above the real living wage and with a continued emphasis on attracting jobs that pay above the private sector median wage.\n\nWhilst ownership of NICS procurement policy rests with the Department of Finance, my Department applies the existing NICS procurement framework in its own procurements, which again acts as a lever for improving employment practice and delivering wider social value outcomes, including the requirement for contractor staff to be paid the Real Living Wage for relevant contracts.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill, its development of a Good Jobs Charter, our partnership and funding for the Real Living Wage franchise and continued targeted investment from InvestNI are all important policy levers that already recognise, support and encourage employers to offer more flexible, secure, and higher quality jobs.
The Good Jobs Employment Right Bill will help deliver greater flexibility for workers and employers, with improvements to flexible working, family-related rights and employee voice being key factors in creating higher quality jobs and increasing productivity.
The Real Living Wage franchise is encouraging ever greater numbers of organisations to become accredited real living wage employers. Invest NI investment also reflects this direction of travel, with support focused on roles paying above the real living wage and with a continued emphasis on attracting jobs that pay above the private sector median wage.
Whilst ownership of NICS procurement policy rests with the Department of Finance, my Department applies the existing NICS procurement framework in its own procurements, which again acts as a lever for improving employment practice and delivering wider social value outcomes, including the requirement for contractor staff to be paid the Real Living Wage for relevant contracts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049752%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492965","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492965"}},{"id":"492964","reference":"AQW 49751/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-26","answerBy":"2026-07-15","answered":"2026-07-07","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 detail any cross-departmental work that her Department is involved in to address childcare barriers, that prevent low-income parents from progressing in work, given evidence that childcare is a primary constraint on progression.","answerText":"I recognise the link between the availability of quality and affordable childcare and parents ability to work or study. My Department continues to engage with DE and other key Departments, including the Department for Communities who have responsibility for the benefits system, on the Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy through various working groups on this important matter.\n\nWhile the Department of Education leads on childcare policy, my Department offers a range of skills pathways and upskilling opportunities, is developing enhanced business support; and is provides parents who wish to study across our range of skills and education provision with financial support to help towards the cost of childcare.","answerHtml":"I recognise the link between the availability of quality and affordable childcare and parents ability to work or study. My Department continues to engage with DE and other key Departments, including the Department for Communities who have responsibility for the benefits system, on the Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy through various working groups on this important matter.
While the Department of Education leads on childcare policy, my Department offers a range of skills pathways and upskilling opportunities, is developing enhanced business support; and is provides parents who wish to study across our range of skills and education provision with financial support to help towards the cost of childcare.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049751%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492964","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492964"}},{"id":"492963","reference":"AQW 49750/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-26","answerBy":"2026-07-15","answered":"2026-07-07","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 detail any measurable targets her Department has set for improving in-work progression.","answerText":"My Department recognises the importance of inwork progression in supporting a more productive and inclusive economy. It is important to note that progression within employment is shaped significantly by employer practices, business need and wider labour market conditions.\n\nA range of programmes, including Skills Focus, Assured Skills, ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeships, are designed to support individuals to upskill and progress within employment into highervalue roles.\n\nWhile no target is set specifically for inwork progression, these programmes are subject to ongoing monitoring and evaluation, which helps inform the Department’s approach to policy development.\n\nInvest NI measures the level of corporate skills uplift and progression following their skills interventions through a structured evaluation. PPEs provide a formal, evidence-based assessment of project outcomes. The Economic Appraisal Framework for Skills and Training (EAFST) is Invest NI’s structured scoring tool used to appraise, prioritise and evaluate the impact of skills projects.\n\nCareer progression is one of a suite of indicators reported annually by NISRA in the Work Quality in Northern Ireland publication, defined as employees who agree or strongly agree that their job offers good opportunities for career progression. In 2025, 56.2% of employees reported such opportunities, with higher rates observed among younger workers, in high-skilled jobs and from the least deprived areas.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the importance of inwork progression in supporting a more productive and inclusive economy. It is important to note that progression within employment is shaped significantly by employer practices, business need and wider labour market conditions.
A range of programmes, including Skills Focus, Assured Skills, ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeships, are designed to support individuals to upskill and progress within employment into highervalue roles.
While no target is set specifically for inwork progression, these programmes are subject to ongoing monitoring and evaluation, which helps inform the Department’s approach to policy development.
Invest NI measures the level of corporate skills uplift and progression following their skills interventions through a structured evaluation. PPEs provide a formal, evidence-based assessment of project outcomes. The Economic Appraisal Framework for Skills and Training (EAFST) is Invest NI’s structured scoring tool used to appraise, prioritise and evaluate the impact of skills projects.
Career progression is one of a suite of indicators reported annually by NISRA in the Work Quality in Northern Ireland publication, defined as employees who agree or strongly agree that their job offers good opportunities for career progression. In 2025, 56.2% of employees reported such opportunities, with higher rates observed among younger workers, in high-skilled jobs and from the least deprived areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049750%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492963","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492963"}},{"id":"492962","reference":"AQW 49749/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-26","answerBy":"2026-07-15","answered":"2026-07-09","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 made of the impact of childcare costs on parents’ ability to increase their working hours or progress in employment.","answerText":"My Department has commissioned research to inform the Early Learning and Childcare Strategy. The Northern Ireland Childcare Survey, commissioned by my Department and delivered by NISRA in 2025, found that 58% of households reported that the work, education or training decisions of a parent or guardian had changed as a result of childcare needs. Of those households, 60% said that the cost of childcare was a factor in those decisions. The most common change was a reduction in working hours (69%). Furthermore, if childcare was not a consideration, 55% of households said they would increase their working hours and 38% would seek a promotion.\n\nAdditionally, the independent Review of Childcare Services in Northern Ireland, published in 2023, found that a lack of access to formal childcare had prevented 49% of respondents from increasing their working hours, 35% from undertaking additional overtime, 32% from enrolling on an education or training course and 31% from accessing or sustaining full-time employment.\n\nSeparately, research undertaken for the Committee for the Economy by the Assembly Research and Information Service in 2024 asserted that the high cost of formal childcare in Northern Ireland affects the ability of parents to work. This is consistent with the findings from research commissioned by my Department, which indicate that childcare costs can be a significant barrier to employment, increased working hours, education and training opportunities, and career progression.\n\nMy Department will continue to build the evidence base through implementation of the Early Learning and Childcare Strategy, including future iterations of the Childcare Survey, subject to the availability of funding.","answerHtml":"My Department has commissioned research to inform the Early Learning and Childcare Strategy. The Northern Ireland Childcare Survey, commissioned by my Department and delivered by NISRA in 2025, found that 58% of households reported that the work, education or training decisions of a parent or guardian had changed as a result of childcare needs. Of those households, 60% said that the cost of childcare was a factor in those decisions. The most common change was a reduction in working hours (69%). Furthermore, if childcare was not a consideration, 55% of households said they would increase their working hours and 38% would seek a promotion.
Additionally, the independent Review of Childcare Services in Northern Ireland, published in 2023, found that a lack of access to formal childcare had prevented 49% of respondents from increasing their working hours, 35% from undertaking additional overtime, 32% from enrolling on an education or training course and 31% from accessing or sustaining full-time employment.
Separately, research undertaken for the Committee for the Economy by the Assembly Research and Information Service in 2024 asserted that the high cost of formal childcare in Northern Ireland affects the ability of parents to work. This is consistent with the findings from research commissioned by my Department, which indicate that childcare costs can be a significant barrier to employment, increased working hours, education and training opportunities, and career progression.
My Department will continue to build the evidence base through implementation of the Early Learning and Childcare Strategy, including future iterations of the Childcare Survey, subject to the availability of funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049749%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492962","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492962"}},{"id":"492961","reference":"AQW 49748/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-26","answerBy":"2026-07-15","answered":"2026-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any targeted cost-of-living interventions his Department has in place for disabled households facing rising energy and essential costs, as highlighted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's report, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My Department is developing a Home Heating Oil Scheme with eligibility criteria that will target assistance to households in receipt of certain disability related benefits.\n\nIn the meantime, if an individual is experiencing an immediate crisis or emergency, including being unable to meet their daily essentials or energy costs, support may be available through the Discretionary Support Scheme, subject to eligibility and affordability conditions.","answerHtml":"My Department is developing a Home Heating Oil Scheme with eligibility criteria that will target assistance to households in receipt of certain disability related benefits.
In the meantime, if an individual is experiencing an immediate crisis or emergency, including being unable to meet their daily essentials or energy costs, support may be available through the Discretionary Support Scheme, subject to eligibility and affordability conditions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049748%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492961","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492961"}},{"id":"492758","reference":"AQW 49634/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will publish a Northern Ireland specific assessment of the adequacy of disability benefits in response to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Rates of Social Security Benefits are set by the Department for Work and Pensions in Great Britain and are maintained in Northern Ireland under parity arrangements.\n\nThe UK Government launched the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payment in October 2025. The review is expected to conclude in Autumn 2026, and no changes to this disability benefit are anticipated before that review is completed.\n\nMy department continues to work on developing a robust, sustainable and effective Executive Disability Strategy. This will help address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people, including those at economic disadvantage as referenced in the Report.","answerHtml":"Rates of Social Security Benefits are set by the Department for Work and Pensions in Great Britain and are maintained in Northern Ireland under parity arrangements.
The UK Government launched the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payment in October 2025. The review is expected to conclude in Autumn 2026, and no changes to this disability benefit are anticipated before that review is completed.
My department continues to work on developing a robust, sustainable and effective Executive Disability Strategy. This will help address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people, including those at economic disadvantage as referenced in the Report.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049634%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492758","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492758"}},{"id":"492757","reference":"AQW 49633/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure that benefit levels reflect the real disability price tag, as identified in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I note the findings of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's recently published report, Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland. The UK Government launched the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payment in October 2025. The review is expected to conclude in Autumn 2026, and no changes are anticipated before that review is completed.\n\nRates of Social Security Benefits are set by the Department for Work and Pensions in Great Britain and are maintained in Northern Ireland under parity arrangements.\n\nMy department continues to work on developing a robust, sustainable and effective Executive Disability Strategy. This will help address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people, including those at economic disadvantage as referenced in the Report.","answerHtml":"I note the findings of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's recently published report, Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland. The UK Government launched the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payment in October 2025. The review is expected to conclude in Autumn 2026, and no changes are anticipated before that review is completed.
Rates of Social Security Benefits are set by the Department for Work and Pensions in Great Britain and are maintained in Northern Ireland under parity arrangements.
My department continues to work on developing a robust, sustainable and effective Executive Disability Strategy. This will help address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people, including those at economic disadvantage as referenced in the Report.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049633%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492757","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492757"}},{"id":"492756","reference":"AQW 49632/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the Anti-Poverty Strategy specifically addresses the finding in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland, that disabled households are almost three times more likely to struggle to afford essentials.","answerText":"Ensuring that Deaf and disabled people have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of our community remains a key priority for me. My Department is taking action to improve outcomes for those affected by, and at risk of being affected by poverty.\n\nThis includes working to ensure that disabled people’s experience of poverty is represented within the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy. This went out for public consultation from 17 June to 19 September 2025, receiving responses from a wide variety of stakeholders, including organisations representing disabled people. My officials analysed, collated and circulated a summary of responses to all Executive Departments, ensuring that the voices and lived experience of all respondents, including disabled people are full considered within the development of the Strategy.\n\nThe draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains commitments to develop and implement an Executive Disability Strategy and a Disability and Work Strategy. These Strategies will help address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people, including those at economic disadvantage as referenced in the Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report. These have also been subject to public consultation to ensure that the voices of Deaf and disabled people are given the fullest consideration.\n\nAligned to these Strategies, initiatives such as the Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project offer key opportunities to help more disabled people and people with health conditions to find and progress in employment.\n\nWe will continue to seek to include the voices and experiences of people with disabilities throughout the lifespan of the Anti-Poverty Strategy.","answerHtml":"Ensuring that Deaf and disabled people have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of our community remains a key priority for me. My Department is taking action to improve outcomes for those affected by, and at risk of being affected by poverty.
This includes working to ensure that disabled people’s experience of poverty is represented within the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy. This went out for public consultation from 17 June to 19 September 2025, receiving responses from a wide variety of stakeholders, including organisations representing disabled people. My officials analysed, collated and circulated a summary of responses to all Executive Departments, ensuring that the voices and lived experience of all respondents, including disabled people are full considered within the development of the Strategy.
The draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains commitments to develop and implement an Executive Disability Strategy and a Disability and Work Strategy. These Strategies will help address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people, including those at economic disadvantage as referenced in the Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report. These have also been subject to public consultation to ensure that the voices of Deaf and disabled people are given the fullest consideration.
Aligned to these Strategies, initiatives such as the Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project offer key opportunities to help more disabled people and people with health conditions to find and progress in employment.
We will continue to seek to include the voices and experiences of people with disabilities throughout the lifespan of the Anti-Poverty Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049632%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492756","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492756"}},{"id":"492755","reference":"AQW 49631/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any steps they are taking to ensure childcare provision supports labour market participation and progression.","answerText":"As part of the development of the Executive Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy, my officials are working closely with their counterparts in the Department for the Economy and the Department for Communities to ensure a joined-up approach to help address the financial and accessibility barriers due to childcare needs faced by working parents to support labour market participation and progression.\n\nIn September 2024, I launched the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) for eligible working parents with children below primary school age. The Scheme provides a 15% saving on eligible childcare costs, with His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) Tax-Free Childcare (TFC) scheme offering an additional 20% reduction. In September 2025, the NICSS was extended to school-age children, recognising the important role that school-age childcare providers play in supporting parents to work and balancing family and employment responsibilities.\n\nIn the draft Executive ELC Strategy, I set out a clear intention to increase the support provided through the NICSS to a 20% subsidy from April 2026 as part of a phased approach to improving affordability. However, at this stage an Executive Budget has not yet been agreed, and the proposed draft Budget as it stands does not provide sufficient ELC funding to progress all actions within the draft Strategy.","answerHtml":"As part of the development of the Executive Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy, my officials are working closely with their counterparts in the Department for the Economy and the Department for Communities to ensure a joined-up approach to help address the financial and accessibility barriers due to childcare needs faced by working parents to support labour market participation and progression.
In September 2024, I launched the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) for eligible working parents with children below primary school age. The Scheme provides a 15% saving on eligible childcare costs, with His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) Tax-Free Childcare (TFC) scheme offering an additional 20% reduction. In September 2025, the NICSS was extended to school-age children, recognising the important role that school-age childcare providers play in supporting parents to work and balancing family and employment responsibilities.
In the draft Executive ELC Strategy, I set out a clear intention to increase the support provided through the NICSS to a 20% subsidy from April 2026 as part of a phased approach to improving affordability. However, at this stage an Executive Budget has not yet been agreed, and the proposed draft Budget as it stands does not provide sufficient ELC funding to progress all actions within the draft Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049631%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492755","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492755"}},{"id":"492754","reference":"AQW 49630/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any cross-departmental, funded action plan that exists to address the three drivers identified in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation report entitled, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland, including (i) extra costs; (ii) employment barriers; and (iii) inadequate social security.","answerText":"Actions to address the root causes and impact of poverty, including for people who are Deaf and disabled, will be taken forward through the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy, supported by the Disability Strategy, and the Disability & Work Strategy.\n\nIn addition, under the NI Public Sector Transformation Fund, a Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Project was awarded £16m as a joint initiative between Department for Communities, Department of Health, and Department for the Economy. This Project seeks to design a better integrated work and health model for Northern Ireland that addresses disability and health related barriers to employment, supporting more people to find and progress in work.","answerHtml":"Actions to address the root causes and impact of poverty, including for people who are Deaf and disabled, will be taken forward through the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy, supported by the Disability Strategy, and the Disability & Work Strategy.
In addition, under the NI Public Sector Transformation Fund, a Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Project was awarded £16m as a joint initiative between Department for Communities, Department of Health, and Department for the Economy. This Project seeks to design a better integrated work and health model for Northern Ireland that addresses disability and health related barriers to employment, supporting more people to find and progress in work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049630%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492754"}},{"id":"491800","reference":"AQW 49278/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-22","answerBy":"2026-07-07","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, given the finding in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's report, Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland 2026, that there is an £800+ monthly gap between disability costs and support, to detail any representations he has made to the UK Government to increase the adequacy of Personal Independence Payment.","answerText":"I have not made any representations to the UK Government regarding the findings of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's recently published report, Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe UK Government launched the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payment in October 2025. The review is expected to conclude in Autumn 2026 and no changes are anticipated before that review is completed.","answerHtml":"I have not made any representations to the UK Government regarding the findings of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's recently published report, Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland.
The UK Government launched the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payment in October 2025. The review is expected to conclude in Autumn 2026 and no changes are anticipated before that review is completed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049278%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491800","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491800"}},{"id":"491799","reference":"AQW 49277/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-22","answerBy":"2026-07-07","answered":"2026-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any mitigating actions his Department is taking, in response to reductions in Universal Credit health-related elements for new claimants, as highlighted in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's report, Disability and poverty in Northern Ireland 2026.","answerText":"The payable rates of Universal Credit are set by the UK Government and under the principle of parity, the same rates are paid to claimants in Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department currently has no plans to introduce any mitigation measures in response to reductions in the Universal Credit health-related element for new claimants.","answerHtml":"The payable rates of Universal Credit are set by the UK Government and under the principle of parity, the same rates are paid to claimants in Northern Ireland.
My Department currently has no plans to introduce any mitigation measures in response to reductions in the Universal Credit health-related element for new claimants.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049277%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491799","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491799"}},{"id":"491798","reference":"AQW 49276/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-22","answerBy":"2026-07-07","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 to detail any plans his Department has to improve trust and engagement with employment support services, among low income working parents.","answerText":"My Department continues to prioritise building links with individuals, organisations, employers and communities across Northern Ireland to ensure that all those who need our employment support services are aware of them.\n\nWhilst support is delivered through my Jobs and Benefits Offices and a range of employment support programmes, my staff undertake extensive outreach and engagement with partner organisations to bring our services into the community and to those, including low-income working parents, who may not be aware of the support that is available.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to prioritise building links with individuals, organisations, employers and communities across Northern Ireland to ensure that all those who need our employment support services are aware of them.
Whilst support is delivered through my Jobs and Benefits Offices and a range of employment support programmes, my staff undertake extensive outreach and engagement with partner organisations to bring our services into the community and to those, including low-income working parents, who may not be aware of the support that is available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049276%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491798","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491798"}},{"id":"491797","reference":"AQW 49275/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-22","answerBy":"2026-07-07","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 to detail any steps that are being taken to improve employment support services to focus on progression in work, rather than solely on job entry.","answerText":"My Department delivers a range of services and provision that support in-work progression, and the removal of associated barriers.\n\nIn seeking to improve this provision, both the draft Disability and Work Strategy, and the Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project place emphasis across the full pathway of supporting people to move closer, find, sustain and progress in employment.","answerHtml":"My Department delivers a range of services and provision that support in-work progression, and the removal of associated barriers.
In seeking to improve this provision, both the draft Disability and Work Strategy, and the Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project place emphasis across the full pathway of supporting people to move closer, find, sustain and progress in employment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049275%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491797","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491797"}},{"id":"491796","reference":"AQW 49274/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-22","answerBy":"2026-07-07","answered":"2026-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps they are taking to ensure that the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy, addresses the disproportionately high poverty rate among disabled people, as identified in the Jospeh Rowntree Federation's report, Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland 2026.","answerText":"Ensuring that Deaf and disabled people have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of our community remains a key priority for me. My Department is taking action to improve outcomes for those affected by, and at risk of being affected by, poverty.\n\nThis includes working to ensure that the experience of poverty for people with a disability is represented within the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy. This went out for public consultation from 17 June to 19 September 2025, receiving responses from a wide variety of stakeholders, including organisations representing Deaf and disabled people. My officials analysed, collated and circulated a summary of responses to all Executive Departments, ensuring that the voices and lived experience of all respondents, including Deaf and disabled people, are full considered within the development of the Strategy.\n\nThe draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains commitments to develop and implement an Executive Disability Strategy and Disability and Work Strategy. These Strategies will help address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people, including those at economic disadvantage as referenced in the Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report. These have also been subject to public consultation to ensure that the voices of Deaf and disabled people are given the fullest consideration.\n\nAligned to these Strategies, initiatives such as the Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project offer key opportunities to help more people with a disability and people with health conditions to find and progress in employment.\n\nWe will continue to seek to include the voices and experiences of people with disabilities throughout the lifespan on the Anti-Poverty Strategy.","answerHtml":"Ensuring that Deaf and disabled people have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of our community remains a key priority for me. My Department is taking action to improve outcomes for those affected by, and at risk of being affected by, poverty.
This includes working to ensure that the experience of poverty for people with a disability is represented within the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy. This went out for public consultation from 17 June to 19 September 2025, receiving responses from a wide variety of stakeholders, including organisations representing Deaf and disabled people. My officials analysed, collated and circulated a summary of responses to all Executive Departments, ensuring that the voices and lived experience of all respondents, including Deaf and disabled people, are full considered within the development of the Strategy.
The draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains commitments to develop and implement an Executive Disability Strategy and Disability and Work Strategy. These Strategies will help address the barriers and inequalities that impact upon the lives of Deaf and disabled people, including those at economic disadvantage as referenced in the Disability and Poverty in Northern Ireland report. These have also been subject to public consultation to ensure that the voices of Deaf and disabled people are given the fullest consideration.
Aligned to these Strategies, initiatives such as the Pathways to Work and Wellbeing Transformation Project offer key opportunities to help more people with a disability and people with health conditions to find and progress in employment.
We will continue to seek to include the voices and experiences of people with disabilities throughout the lifespan on the Anti-Poverty Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049274%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491796","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491796"}},{"id":"491549","reference":"AQW 49157/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-19","answerBy":"2026-07-06","answered":"2026-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether any consideration will be given to adopting labour market progression for low income working parents as a key outcome measure within Northern Ireland’s Child Poverty Strategy, given evidence that most children in poverty now live in working households.","answerText":"The Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy aims to address poverty and the impacts of socio-economic disadvantage for all communities across NI including children and young people in “in-work poverty.” This represents the NI Executive’s commitment to a joined up, long-term approach to addressing poverty.\n\nI welcome the finding by Action for Children in their recently published “Work Isn’t Working” report, which indicates that Northern Ireland currently has the lowest rate of child poverty in working households across the UK.\n\nThe Action for Children Report also recommends developing labour market progression as specific success measure of the UK Child Poverty Strategy. The draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains a wide range of interventions that align with this recommendation, including actions designed at helping working families, including improving childcare provision, skills and training programmes and encouraging further uptake of the real Living Wage.\n\nFollowing consideration of responses to the public consultation, my officials are currently working on the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy to reflect the contributions of all Departments, in preparation for presentation to the Executive. Final decisions on the Strategy’s content and implementation will be subject to Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy aims to address poverty and the impacts of socio-economic disadvantage for all communities across NI including children and young people in “in-work poverty.” This represents the NI Executive’s commitment to a joined up, long-term approach to addressing poverty.
I welcome the finding by Action for Children in their recently published “Work Isn’t Working” report, which indicates that Northern Ireland currently has the lowest rate of child poverty in working households across the UK.
The Action for Children Report also recommends developing labour market progression as specific success measure of the UK Child Poverty Strategy. The draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains a wide range of interventions that align with this recommendation, including actions designed at helping working families, including improving childcare provision, skills and training programmes and encouraging further uptake of the real Living Wage.
Following consideration of responses to the public consultation, my officials are currently working on the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy to reflect the contributions of all Departments, in preparation for presentation to the Executive. Final decisions on the Strategy’s content and implementation 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%2049157%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491549","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491549"}},{"id":"491548","reference":"AQW 49156/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-19","answerBy":"2026-07-06","answered":"2026-07-15","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 and longest waiting times for an initial mental health assessment; (ii) the total number of people currently waiting; and (iii) any assessment that has been made of regional variation in access to these services, over the last 12 months, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Adult Mental Health Outpatient Waiting Times by HSC Trust and time waiting as at 31st May 2026.\nHSC Trust\t> 9 weeks\t> 26 weeks\t> 52 weeks\tTotal Waiting\nBelfast\nNorthern\t41\t7\t0\t777\nSouth Eastern\t600\t309\t20\t1567\nSouthern\t417\t36\t0\t942\nWestern\t90\t17\t6\t607\n\nSource: HSC Trust Returns to SPPG Business Analytics Team\n\nPlease note the following.\n\n1. The information above relates to active waits at each month end position.\n\n2. As part of the Encompass roll-out, all Trusts have now gone live with a new electronic patient record system. As these Trusts continue to transition to completely digitised records, their data is undergoing extensive validation. Until this process is complete, there may be gaps in the data they are able to submit for reporting purposes, and the information supplied in this response may be subject to change.\n\n3. The information above is management information only, and not for publication.\n\n4.Belfast HSC Trust data is undergoing extensive validation and is excluded from the information presented above.\n\nArticle 10A of the Health and Social Care Act (NI) 2022 provides for Health and Social Care Trusts to be directly responsible for social care and children’s functions, under Directed Statutory Functions by the Department of Health. The Strategic Planning and Performance Group has responsibility for the professional oversight, governance, performance management and accountability, and strategic oversight of Trusts, in relation to the exercise of social care and children’s statutory functions.\n\nTrusts also have robust governance arrangements in place to ensure mental health services meet expected standards in terms of support for families and carers, in line with the expressed wishes of patients. Clinical governance frameworks operate across corporate, divisional, and team levels, ensuring that Trust Boards are sighted on areas of underperformance and risk accordingly.\n\nCollectively, these arrangements ensure ongoing oversight of service delivery and support continuous improvement in access, safety, and quality of care.","answerHtml":"| Adult Mental Health Outpatient Waiting Times by HSC Trust and time waiting as at 31st May 2026. | ||||
| HSC Trust | > 9 weeks | > 26 weeks | > 52 weeks | Total Waiting |
| Belfast | ||||
| Northern | 41 | 7 | 0 | 777 |
| South Eastern | 600 | 309 | 20 | 1567 |
| Southern | 417 | 36 | 0 | 942 |
| Western | 90 | 17 | 6 | 607 |
Source: HSC Trust Returns to SPPG Business Analytics Team
Please note the following.
1. The information above relates to active waits at each month end position.
2. As part of the Encompass roll-out, all Trusts have now gone live with a new electronic patient record system. As these Trusts continue to transition to completely digitised records, their data is undergoing extensive validation. Until this process is complete, there may be gaps in the data they are able to submit for reporting purposes, and the information supplied in this response may be subject to change.
3. The information above is management information only, and not for publication.
4.Belfast HSC Trust data is undergoing extensive validation and is excluded from the information presented above.
Article 10A of the Health and Social Care Act (NI) 2022 provides for Health and Social Care Trusts to be directly responsible for social care and children’s functions, under Directed Statutory Functions by the Department of Health. The Strategic Planning and Performance Group has responsibility for the professional oversight, governance, performance management and accountability, and strategic oversight of Trusts, in relation to the exercise of social care and children’s statutory functions.
Trusts also have robust governance arrangements in place to ensure mental health services meet expected standards in terms of support for families and carers, in line with the expressed wishes of patients. Clinical governance frameworks operate across corporate, divisional, and team levels, ensuring that Trust Boards are sighted on areas of underperformance and risk accordingly.
Collectively, these arrangements ensure ongoing oversight of service delivery and support continuous improvement in access, safety, and quality of care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049156%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491548","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491548"}},{"id":"491547","reference":"AQW 49155/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-19","answerBy":"2026-07-06","answered":"2026-07-02","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 detail any steps being taken to promote flexible and family friendly working practices, including (i) job sharing; and (ii) part-time progression opportunities.","answerText":"My Employment Rights Bill, which is with the Executive for approval, includes enhancements of the right to make a statutory flexible working request for all employees. To make it easier for people to ask their employer for flexible working arrangements, employees will be permitted to make two statutory flexible working requests rather than the current 1 in a 12-month period and employees will no longer be required to state the potential impact of a flexible working request. I will also introduce legislation which will allow the right to request to apply from the first day of employment.\n\nFlexible working is an agreed way of meeting the needs of an employer and an employee through alternative approaches to working. These can include flexibilities such as flexible start and finish patterns; compressed hours; job sharing; part-time working; home, remote or hybrid working arrangements; or any combination thereof.\n\nAlongside legislative reform, my Department works with the Labour Relations Agency (LRA), which actively promotes flexible and family-friendly working practices through guidance and employer-focused resources, including case studies demonstrating the benefits of approaches such as job sharing, part-time working and flexible hours.\n\nI strongly encourage employers to offer enhanced flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff as flexible working arrangements are an important means of ensuring the work and personal commitments of employees can be balanced. Also, evidence shows that flexible working can help businesses improve staff retention, reduce recruitment costs, and build a more resilient workforce. Employers who offer flexibility are generally more attractive to candidates, which is particularly important when many sectors are reporting ongoing recruitment difficulties.","answerHtml":"My Employment Rights Bill, which is with the Executive for approval, includes enhancements of the right to make a statutory flexible working request for all employees. To make it easier for people to ask their employer for flexible working arrangements, employees will be permitted to make two statutory flexible working requests rather than the current 1 in a 12-month period and employees will no longer be required to state the potential impact of a flexible working request. I will also introduce legislation which will allow the right to request to apply from the first day of employment.
Flexible working is an agreed way of meeting the needs of an employer and an employee through alternative approaches to working. These can include flexibilities such as flexible start and finish patterns; compressed hours; job sharing; part-time working; home, remote or hybrid working arrangements; or any combination thereof.
Alongside legislative reform, my Department works with the Labour Relations Agency (LRA), which actively promotes flexible and family-friendly working practices through guidance and employer-focused resources, including case studies demonstrating the benefits of approaches such as job sharing, part-time working and flexible hours.
I strongly encourage employers to offer enhanced flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff as flexible working arrangements are an important means of ensuring the work and personal commitments of employees can be balanced. Also, evidence shows that flexible working can help businesses improve staff retention, reduce recruitment costs, and build a more resilient workforce. Employers who offer flexibility are generally more attractive to candidates, which is particularly important when many sectors are reporting ongoing recruitment difficulties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049155%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491547","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491547"}},{"id":"491546","reference":"AQW 49154/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-19","answerBy":"2026-07-06","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 whether any assessment has been made on how current Universal Credit rules impact second earners in low income households, given evidence that second earners can play a critical role in lifting families out of poverty.","answerText":"The Department for Communities has not undertaken a specific assessment of the impact of Universal Credit rules on second earners in low-income households.\n\nUniversal Credit is designed to support households into work and to ensure that work pays, with policy priority given to supporting at least one adult in a household to enter work.\n\nThe Department continues to engage with the Department for Work and Pensions on the design and operation of Universal Credit and considers relevant evidence and analysis as it becomes available.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities has not undertaken a specific assessment of the impact of Universal Credit rules on second earners in low-income households.
Universal Credit is designed to support households into work and to ensure that work pays, with policy priority given to supporting at least one adult in a household to enter work.
The Department continues to engage with the Department for Work and Pensions on the design and operation of Universal Credit and considers relevant evidence and analysis as it becomes available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049154%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491546","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491546"}},{"id":"491545","reference":"AQW 49153/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-19","answerBy":"2026-07-06","answered":"2026-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any immediate steps he will take to address in-work poverty, given the growing proportion of children living in working households in poverty.","answerText":"My Department is leading on the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy, which contains a wide range of actions to help those affected by, and at risk of being affected by, poverty in Northern Ireland, including children living in working households.\n\nThe Department for Communities supports low-income working households through Universal Credit and personalised work coach support, helping customers to increase earnings, progress in employment and overcome barriers to work.\n\nI welcome the finding by Action for Children in their recently-published “Work Isn’t Working” report, which indicates that Northern Ireland has the lowest in-work child poverty rates in the UK and I along with my Executive colleagues intend to lower this even further through the development and implementation of a robust Anti-Poverty Strategy.","answerHtml":"My Department is leading on the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy, which contains a wide range of actions to help those affected by, and at risk of being affected by, poverty in Northern Ireland, including children living in working households.
The Department for Communities supports low-income working households through Universal Credit and personalised work coach support, helping customers to increase earnings, progress in employment and overcome barriers to work.
I welcome the finding by Action for Children in their recently-published “Work Isn’t Working” report, which indicates that Northern Ireland has the lowest in-work child poverty rates in the UK and I along with my Executive colleagues intend to lower this even further through the development and implementation of a robust Anti-Poverty Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049153%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491545","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491545"}},{"id":"491184","reference":"AQW 49029/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-07-03","answered":"2026-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any information provided to a mainstream school in advance of the placement of a child with a statement of special educational needs that included a recommendation that the child should attend a special school.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has provided the following information;\n\nThe EA ensures that, in advance of a placement, any school being considered for, or named in, a child’s statement of special educational needs (SEN) is provided with all relevant information necessary to support an informed decision and to facilitate appropriate planning.\n\nWhere a child has a statement that includes a recommendation that they should attend a special school and a mainstream school placement is being considered or subsequently agreed (for example, following parental preference or panel consideration), the EA will share the following information with the mainstream school:\n\nA copy of the child’s statement of SEN, including all appendices;\n\nDetails of the child’s identified needs across all domains;\n\nThe professional advice underpinning the statement (e.g. educational psychology, health and social care input, therapy reports);\n\nThe provision specified with the statement, including any additional supports, resources, or interventions required;\n\nAny recorded recommendations regarding placement, including where a special school setting had been identified as appropriate at an earlier stage.\n\nThis ensures the receiving mainstream school is fully aware of the context of the placement, including that a special school placement had been recommended and can assess its capacity to meet the child’s needs in line with the statement.\n\nIn addition to the provision of documentation, EA officers will typically engage directly with the school principal and/or special educational needs coordinator (SENCo) to discuss the child’s needs, the implications for the school and any supports that may be required. This may include consideration of staffing, training, accessibility and external support services.\n\nThe EA’s processes are designed to ensure that placements are made transparently and collaboratively, with schools appropriately informed and supported and with due regard to the child’s needs, parental preference and the efficient use of resources.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has provided the following information;
The EA ensures that, in advance of a placement, any school being considered for, or named in, a child’s statement of special educational needs (SEN) is provided with all relevant information necessary to support an informed decision and to facilitate appropriate planning.
Where a child has a statement that includes a recommendation that they should attend a special school and a mainstream school placement is being considered or subsequently agreed (for example, following parental preference or panel consideration), the EA will share the following information with the mainstream school:
A copy of the child’s statement of SEN, including all appendices;
Details of the child’s identified needs across all domains;
The professional advice underpinning the statement (e.g. educational psychology, health and social care input, therapy reports);
The provision specified with the statement, including any additional supports, resources, or interventions required;
Any recorded recommendations regarding placement, including where a special school setting had been identified as appropriate at an earlier stage.
This ensures the receiving mainstream school is fully aware of the context of the placement, including that a special school placement had been recommended and can assess its capacity to meet the child’s needs in line with the statement.
In addition to the provision of documentation, EA officers will typically engage directly with the school principal and/or special educational needs coordinator (SENCo) to discuss the child’s needs, the implications for the school and any supports that may be required. This may include consideration of staffing, training, accessibility and external support services.
The EA’s processes are designed to ensure that placements are made transparently and collaboratively, with schools appropriately informed and supported and with due regard to the child’s needs, parental preference and the efficient use of resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049029%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491184","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491184"}},{"id":"491183","reference":"AQW 49028/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-07-03","answered":"2026-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether all children with special educational needs in the Strangford Constituency, who are due to start a primary or post-primary school, have been allocated and notified of their school place for the start of the school year in September 2026","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that 210 out of 217 children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) in the Strangford Constituency have been allocated and notified of their school place for the start of the school year in September 2026.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that 210 out of 217 children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) in the Strangford Constituency have been allocated and notified of their school place for the start of the school year in September 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049028%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491183","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491183"}},{"id":"491182","reference":"AQW 49027/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-07-03","answered":"2026-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any steps his Department is taking to ensure all providers of social homes have policies and processes in place to transfer a tenancy agreement from the perpetrator of domestic violence to the victim, if they live or lived in the same home; and (ii) any legislation that can be used to (a) remove a tenancy agreement from a person found guilty of domestic violence; and (b) prevent a person found guilty of domestic violence from holding a tenancy agreement.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:\n\n“(i) The ability to transfer social tenancies is a matter reserved for the courts. As such, this is not something social landlords are able to achieve through their own policies and processes. As part of the Housing Executive’s Domestic Abuse Action Plan, the issue of action to be taken against perpetrators of Domestic Abuse is being examined. This work will evaluate the current options and consider the approach taken in other areas of the UK. While scoping work took place over the course of 2025/26, work over the forthcoming year will seek to identify and deliver any actions arising from this work.\n\n(ii) (a) the legislation does not allow landlords to remove domestic abusers from a tenancy agreement. Rather it gives them standing to apply to the court for such an order. Schedule 3 of the 1983 Housing Order NI already has a specific clause which relates to domestic violence. This sets out domestic violence as potential ground for possession if specific criteria are met. It also requires that the injured party has left the accommodation and is unlikely to return so long as the other party continues to occupy the premises. Where possession of a property is achieved under Ground 2a, there is currently a policy discretion to allow the granting of the tenancy to the other party (subject to the circumstances of the case).\n\nA court may currently issue an order for a secure or introductory tenancy to be assigned from one person to another under the following legislation:\n\nArticle 26 of the Matrimonial Causes (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 (property adjustment orders in connection with matrimonial proceedings)\n\nArticle 21 of the Matrimonial and Family Proceedings (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (property adjustment orders after overseas divorce, &c.)\n\nParagraph 2 of Schedule 1 to the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 (orders for financial relief against parents), or\n\nPart II of Schedule 2 to the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 (orders transferring certain tenancies on divorce, etc., and on separation of cohabitees)\n\nPart 2 of Schedule 15, or paragraph 9(2) or (3) of Schedule 17, to the Civil Partnership Act 2004 (property adjustment orders in connection with civil partnership proceedings or after overseas dissolution of civil partnership, etc.)\n\nThis application would need to be made by one of the parties.\n\nIn addition, the existing tenant may make a request to assign the tenancy voluntarily or in the case where the tenant (in a domestic abuse case) terminates the tenancy, the social landlord has discretion to consider any remaining partner for an exceptional award of tenancy. Verification of the circumstances will be required.\n\nWhere the tenant has left the property, possession may also be sought on the basis for non-occupation, but this would be a last resort in the absence of a suitable agreed solution. When possession has been granted the landlord may consider any remaining victim for an exceptional award of tenancy.\n\n(ii) (b) There is no specific provision in housing legislation that generally prohibits a perpetrator of domestic abuse from being granted or holding a social tenancy.\n\nHowever:\n\nAn individual may be deemed ineligible for an allocation of social housing on the basis of unacceptable behaviour subject to relevant legislation; and\n\nA landlord may disqualify an applicant under the Housing Selection Scheme Rules where they have engaged in serious anti-social behaviour within the previous two years.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:
“(i) The ability to transfer social tenancies is a matter reserved for the courts. As such, this is not something social landlords are able to achieve through their own policies and processes. As part of the Housing Executive’s Domestic Abuse Action Plan, the issue of action to be taken against perpetrators of Domestic Abuse is being examined. This work will evaluate the current options and consider the approach taken in other areas of the UK. While scoping work took place over the course of 2025/26, work over the forthcoming year will seek to identify and deliver any actions arising from this work.
(ii) (a) the legislation does not allow landlords to remove domestic abusers from a tenancy agreement. Rather it gives them standing to apply to the court for such an order. Schedule 3 of the 1983 Housing Order NI already has a specific clause which relates to domestic violence. This sets out domestic violence as potential ground for possession if specific criteria are met. It also requires that the injured party has left the accommodation and is unlikely to return so long as the other party continues to occupy the premises. Where possession of a property is achieved under Ground 2a, there is currently a policy discretion to allow the granting of the tenancy to the other party (subject to the circumstances of the case).
A court may currently issue an order for a secure or introductory tenancy to be assigned from one person to another under the following legislation:
Article 26 of the Matrimonial Causes (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 (property adjustment orders in connection with matrimonial proceedings)
Article 21 of the Matrimonial and Family Proceedings (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (property adjustment orders after overseas divorce, &c.)
Paragraph 2 of Schedule 1 to the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 (orders for financial relief against parents), or
Part II of Schedule 2 to the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 (orders transferring certain tenancies on divorce, etc., and on separation of cohabitees)
Part 2 of Schedule 15, or paragraph 9(2) or (3) of Schedule 17, to the Civil Partnership Act 2004 (property adjustment orders in connection with civil partnership proceedings or after overseas dissolution of civil partnership, etc.)
This application would need to be made by one of the parties.
In addition, the existing tenant may make a request to assign the tenancy voluntarily or in the case where the tenant (in a domestic abuse case) terminates the tenancy, the social landlord has discretion to consider any remaining partner for an exceptional award of tenancy. Verification of the circumstances will be required.
Where the tenant has left the property, possession may also be sought on the basis for non-occupation, but this would be a last resort in the absence of a suitable agreed solution. When possession has been granted the landlord may consider any remaining victim for an exceptional award of tenancy.
(ii) (b) There is no specific provision in housing legislation that generally prohibits a perpetrator of domestic abuse from being granted or holding a social tenancy.
However:
An individual may be deemed ineligible for an allocation of social housing on the basis of unacceptable behaviour subject to relevant legislation; and
A landlord may disqualify an applicant under the Housing Selection Scheme Rules where they have engaged in serious anti-social behaviour within the previous two years.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049027%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491182","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491182"}},{"id":"491181","reference":"AQW 49026/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-07-03","answered":"2026-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any support given to education sectors to provide anti-racism awareness for staff and pupils.","answerText":"The Department recognises the vital role of education in promoting inclusion, respect and mutual understanding, and is committed to supporting the education sector to address racism and promote diversity among both staff and pupils.\n\nSupport is provided through guidance, professional learning and the sharing of good practice to strengthen staff confidence and capability in this area. This includes a focus on anti‑racism, equality, diversity and inclusion, helping ensure that teachers and youth practitioners are equipped to create inclusive environments and respond effectively to issues as they arise.\n\nSchools are encouraged to deliver age‑appropriate learning that values diversity and challenges prejudice, including racism. This is reinforced through the draft Curriculum Framework, currently out for consultation, where the proposed Personal, Social, Civic and Careers (PSCC) area places a strong emphasis, from Foundation Stage onwards, on diversity, inclusion and respect for different cultures and identities.\n\nIn addition, the youth sector plays an important complementary role by delivering programmes that promote good relations, cultural awareness and inclusion, enabling young people to explore and challenge racism in a safe and constructive way.","answerHtml":"The Department recognises the vital role of education in promoting inclusion, respect and mutual understanding, and is committed to supporting the education sector to address racism and promote diversity among both staff and pupils.
Support is provided through guidance, professional learning and the sharing of good practice to strengthen staff confidence and capability in this area. This includes a focus on anti‑racism, equality, diversity and inclusion, helping ensure that teachers and youth practitioners are equipped to create inclusive environments and respond effectively to issues as they arise.
Schools are encouraged to deliver age‑appropriate learning that values diversity and challenges prejudice, including racism. This is reinforced through the draft Curriculum Framework, currently out for consultation, where the proposed Personal, Social, Civic and Careers (PSCC) area places a strong emphasis, from Foundation Stage onwards, on diversity, inclusion and respect for different cultures and identities.
In addition, the youth sector plays an important complementary role by delivering programmes that promote good relations, cultural awareness and inclusion, enabling young people to explore and challenge racism in a safe and constructive way.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049026%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491181","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491181"}},{"id":"490919","reference":"AQW 48902/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-17","answerBy":"2026-07-02","answered":"2026-07-01","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 in receipt of Universal Credit who have availed of (i) a sight test; (ii) dental treatment; (iii) a hearing test; and (iv) reimbursement of travel to hospital costs, since the Help with Health Costs in Northern Ireland Scheme was introduced on 1 December 2025.","answerText":"Ophthalmic and dental information is available up to March 2026, the reference date of the latest published Accredited Official Statistics, and shows that;\n\n(i) 12,905 unique identifiable patients in receipt of Universal Credit have had sight tests since 1st December 2025, and\n\n(ii) 5,945 unique patients in receipt of Universal Credit have had dental treatments completed since 1st December 2025.\n\n(iii) & (iv) my Department does not hold information in relation to hearing tests or travel costs.","answerHtml":"Ophthalmic and dental information is available up to March 2026, the reference date of the latest published Accredited Official Statistics, and shows that;
(i) 12,905 unique identifiable patients in receipt of Universal Credit have had sight tests since 1st December 2025, and
(ii) 5,945 unique patients in receipt of Universal Credit have had dental treatments completed since 1st December 2025.
(iii) & (iv) my Department does not hold information in relation to hearing tests or travel costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048902%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490919","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490919"}},{"id":"490918","reference":"AQW 48901/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-17","answerBy":"2026-07-02","answered":"2026-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any service provided by (i) the Housing Executive (NIHE); or (ii) his Department, which allows members of the public to report fraudulent use or misuse of social housing operated by NIHE or another housing association, including (a) online forms; and (b) telephone numbers.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:\n\n“(i)The Housing Executive is committed to preventing misuse of its properties and provides a number of mechanisms through which members of the public can report suspected fraudulent use of social housing.\n\nThese include:\n\nan online reporting facility available via the Housing Executive’s website at www.nihe.gov.uk/fraud\n\n(b) a telephone contact number (03448 920 900) through which reports can be made; and\n\n(c) the option to report concerns in person at a local Housing Executive office.\n\nAll reports of suspected fraud are taken seriously and investigated by the Housing Executive, to help ensure that social housing stock is used appropriately and allocated to those in genuine need.\n\n(ii) The Department does not operate a dedicated public reporting service specifically for tenancy fraud in social housing, it works closely with the Housing Executive and registered housing associations to ensure robust processes are in place to prevent and address misuse. Individual housing associations may also provide their own reporting arrangements, typically via published contact details on their websites or through local office networks.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:
“(i)The Housing Executive is committed to preventing misuse of its properties and provides a number of mechanisms through which members of the public can report suspected fraudulent use of social housing.
These include:
an online reporting facility available via the Housing Executive’s website at www.nihe.gov.uk/fraud
(b) a telephone contact number (03448 920 900) through which reports can be made; and
(c) the option to report concerns in person at a local Housing Executive office.
All reports of suspected fraud are taken seriously and investigated by the Housing Executive, to help ensure that social housing stock is used appropriately and allocated to those in genuine need.
(ii) The Department does not operate a dedicated public reporting service specifically for tenancy fraud in social housing, it works closely with the Housing Executive and registered housing associations to ensure robust processes are in place to prevent and address misuse. Individual housing associations may also provide their own reporting arrangements, typically via published contact details on their websites or through local office networks.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048901%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490918","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490918"}},{"id":"490917","reference":"AQW 48900/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-17","answerBy":"2026-07-02","answered":"2026-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission when MLA pensions will be uploaded and available on the Moneyhelper Pensions Dashboard, given the Northern Ireland Local Government Officers' Superannuation Committee is already on it.","answerText":"This is an issue for the Assembly Members’ Pension Scheme Trustees rather than the Assembly Commission. The Trustees are working in conjunction with the third-party pension administrator, ISIO, who is managing connection of the Assembly Members’ Pension Scheme to the dashboard system on the Trustees behalf. ISIO will be responsible for dealing with all technical queries and providing Members with help and guidance as the project progresses.\n\nThe connection of pension schemes to the MoneyHelper Pension Dashboard is governed by the Pensions Dashboards Regulations 2022, supported by guidance issued by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) and The Pensions Regulator. These regulations establish a staged timetable for schemes to connect, based on the scheme type and size, with a final statutory connection deadline of 31 October 2026.\n\nWhile it is recognised that some larger schemes have already connected, in line with their assigned staging dates, the Assembly Members’ Pension Scheme (Northern Ireland) is scheduled to be connected to the dashboard system by 31 August 2026.\n\nHowever, it should be noted that although all schemes will connect by 31 October 2026, pension data will not be accessible to Members until the MoneyHelper Pension Dashboard is formally made available the public, the date of which will be determined by the Secretary of State once all schemes have connected and the system is fully tested. The Government has confirmed that at least six months’ notice will be provided ahead of the public launch.","answerHtml":"This is an issue for the Assembly Members’ Pension Scheme Trustees rather than the Assembly Commission. The Trustees are working in conjunction with the third-party pension administrator, ISIO, who is managing connection of the Assembly Members’ Pension Scheme to the dashboard system on the Trustees behalf. ISIO will be responsible for dealing with all technical queries and providing Members with help and guidance as the project progresses.
The connection of pension schemes to the MoneyHelper Pension Dashboard is governed by the Pensions Dashboards Regulations 2022, supported by guidance issued by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) and The Pensions Regulator. These regulations establish a staged timetable for schemes to connect, based on the scheme type and size, with a final statutory connection deadline of 31 October 2026.
While it is recognised that some larger schemes have already connected, in line with their assigned staging dates, the Assembly Members’ Pension Scheme (Northern Ireland) is scheduled to be connected to the dashboard system by 31 August 2026.
However, it should be noted that although all schemes will connect by 31 October 2026, pension data will not be accessible to Members until the MoneyHelper Pension Dashboard is formally made available the public, the date of which will be determined by the Secretary of State once all schemes have connected and the system is fully tested. The Government has confirmed that at least six months’ notice will be provided ahead of the public launch.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048900%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490917","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490917"}},{"id":"483314","reference":"AQW 45605/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-06","answerBy":"2026-05-21","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 when he intends to begin consultation with the Deaf community, in order to develop guidance for public bodies in line with the provisions of the Sign Language Bill (NIA 10/22-27), which is soon to become an Act","answerText":"Consultation with the Deaf community is ongoing, a draft of best practice guidance prepared by the British Deaf Association and other Deaf representatives is currently under consideration, and this matter will be addressed at the next meeting of the Sign Language Partnership Group (SLPG). The SLPG is a cross-departmental forum with representatives from the Deaf community, chaired by my Department which works to improve access to information and services for the Deaf community.","answerHtml":"Consultation with the Deaf community is ongoing, a draft of best practice guidance prepared by the British Deaf Association and other Deaf representatives is currently under consideration, and this matter will be addressed at the next meeting of the Sign Language Partnership Group (SLPG). The SLPG is a cross-departmental forum with representatives from the Deaf community, chaired by my Department which works to improve access to information and services for the Deaf community.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045605%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483314"}},{"id":"483313","reference":"AQW 45604/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-06","answerBy":"2026-05-21","answered":"2026-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any legislation or regulation that permits NI Water to decline to provide a connection to a building that has been derelict for at least five years.","answerText":"The management of the public water and wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. I have sought further information from NI Water to inform the response to your question.\n\nNI Water has advised that the issue of connections to derelict properties is a matter of company policy rather than an issue specified in legislation or regulations. The company has clarified that the intent of the 5-year policy is to help support development in closed catchments where possible while managing the load on wastewater treatment works and associated networks. This approach helps to ensure these assets can still perform effectively and meet environmental standards.","answerHtml":"The management of the public water and wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. I have sought further information from NI Water to inform the response to your question.
NI Water has advised that the issue of connections to derelict properties is a matter of company policy rather than an issue specified in legislation or regulations. The company has clarified that the intent of the 5-year policy is to help support development in closed catchments where possible while managing the load on wastewater treatment works and associated networks. This approach helps to ensure these assets can still perform effectively and meet environmental standards.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045604%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483313","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483313"}},{"id":"483312","reference":"AQW 45603/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-06","answerBy":"2026-05-21","answered":"2026-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will meet with me and representatives of the Newtownards Chamber of Commerce in Newtownards Town, to discuss the economic impact on local business arising from NI Water's lack of investment in the South Street Wastewater Treatment Works.","answerText":"I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you and representatives of the Newtownards Chamber of Commerce to discuss wastewater infrastructure issues relevant to economic development in Newtownards.\n\nTo assist with the necessary arrangements, I would be grateful if you could contact my diary secretary at Private.Office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk in order to make the necessary arrangements.","answerHtml":"I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you and representatives of the Newtownards Chamber of Commerce to discuss wastewater infrastructure issues relevant to economic development in Newtownards.
To assist with the necessary arrangements, I would be grateful if you could contact my diary secretary at Private.Office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk in order to make the necessary arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045603%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483312","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483312"}},{"id":"483311","reference":"AQW 45602/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-06","answerBy":"2026-05-21","answered":"2026-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any dates when planned maintenance will take place on the (i) MV Strangford II ferry; and (ii) MV Portaferry II ferry, during the 2026-27 financial year.","answerText":"Each vessel must undergo an annual drydock to obtain a Passenger Ship Safety Certificate issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). Annual dry dock works take place over 6-weeks and are scheduled for February / March and August / September.\n\nThe vessels are used interchangeably throughout the year, with routine maintenance carried out on the out of service vessel as required.\n\nThe timing of refits and maintenance is planned to ensure that both vessels are available during peak periods, including the business summer season between Easter and the August bank holiday, providing resilience in the service.","answerHtml":"Each vessel must undergo an annual drydock to obtain a Passenger Ship Safety Certificate issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). Annual dry dock works take place over 6-weeks and are scheduled for February / March and August / September.
The vessels are used interchangeably throughout the year, with routine maintenance carried out on the out of service vessel as required.
The timing of refits and maintenance is planned to ensure that both vessels are available during peak periods, including the business summer season between Easter and the August bank holiday, providing resilience in the service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045602%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483311","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483311"}},{"id":"483310","reference":"AQW 45601/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-06","answerBy":"2026-05-21","answered":"2026-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any Departmental phone number that the public can use to report issues with flags on lampposts or any other items owned by her Department, including the time and days that phonelines are operational.","answerText":"Incidents of unauthorised flags on Department property can be reported by calling my Department’s Report a Fault line on 0300 200 7899. This telephone line is operational 24 hours a day.","answerHtml":"Incidents of unauthorised flags on Department property can be reported by calling my Department’s Report a Fault line on 0300 200 7899. This telephone line is operational 24 hours a day.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045601%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483310","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483310"}},{"id":"481768","reference":"AQW 44884/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-27","answerBy":"2026-05-13","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 whether he will provide a copy of reports compiled by the Housing Executive on the quarterly performance of groups in receipt of Small Pockets of Deprivation funding, for the period (i) 2023-2024, (ii) 2024-2025; and (iii) 2025-2026, broken down by council area.","answerText":"The information requested is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive however they do not hold the data in the format or time periods requested.","answerHtml":"The information requested is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive however they do not hold the data in the format or time periods requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044884%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481768","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481768"}},{"id":"481563","reference":"AQW 44767/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-24","answerBy":"2026-05-12","answered":"2026-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail whether all grant-maintained integrated schools receive an offer to be included in the same insurance arrangements as provided for all controlled schools, as required under section 9 (2) (c) of the Integrated Education Act (NI) 2022.","answerText":"Under the Common Funding Scheme, Voluntary Grammar and Grant Maintained Integrated schools receive funding to reflect the additional responsibilities and associated costs of administrative functions carried out by these schools, which in the case of Controlled and Maintained schools are provided centrally by the Education Authority. This includes costs associated with audit, legal and insurance.\n\nGrant Maintained Integrated schools are therefore responsible for securing their own insurance arrangements and are funded on a per pupil basis to reflect equivalent Education Authority expenditure for Controlled and Maintained schools on these functions.\n\nArrangements are therefore already in place to ensure that Grant Maintained Integrated schools are funded for insurance provision and are not disadvantaged in accordance with section 9(2)(c) of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerHtml":"Under the Common Funding Scheme, Voluntary Grammar and Grant Maintained Integrated schools receive funding to reflect the additional responsibilities and associated costs of administrative functions carried out by these schools, which in the case of Controlled and Maintained schools are provided centrally by the Education Authority. This includes costs associated with audit, legal and insurance.
Grant Maintained Integrated schools are therefore responsible for securing their own insurance arrangements and are funded on a per pupil basis to reflect equivalent Education Authority expenditure for Controlled and Maintained schools on these functions.
Arrangements are therefore already in place to ensure that Grant Maintained Integrated schools are funded for insurance provision and are not disadvantaged in accordance with section 9(2)(c) of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044767%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481563","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481563"}},{"id":"481562","reference":"AQW 44766/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-24","answerBy":"2026-05-12","answered":"2026-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any action he can take to ensure the Education Authority is delivering a sustainable Educational Psychology service, given that the Ards and North Down area has not had service provision since November 2025.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised the Educational Psychology Service (EPS) works in partnership with children and young people, parents, schools and EA services to promote learning, wellbeing, inclusion and positive life outcomes.\n\nTo ensure equity and consistency of provision across the region, the EPS revised its approach to working with non-statutory pre-school settings in the South Eastern Trust Area including North Down and Ards from September 2025, aligning its support with the level of service available to comparable settings elsewhere across Northern Ireland. The EPS continues to offer the same level of service to statutory nursery settings, primary schools and post-primary schools.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised the Educational Psychology Service (EPS) works in partnership with children and young people, parents, schools and EA services to promote learning, wellbeing, inclusion and positive life outcomes.
To ensure equity and consistency of provision across the region, the EPS revised its approach to working with non-statutory pre-school settings in the South Eastern Trust Area including North Down and Ards from September 2025, aligning its support with the level of service available to comparable settings elsewhere across Northern Ireland. The EPS continues to offer the same level of service to statutory nursery settings, primary schools and post-primary schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044766%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481562","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481562"}},{"id":"481561","reference":"AQW 44765/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-24","answerBy":"2026-05-12","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will provide a copy of his Department's Fair Funding Principles that underpin any grant funding arrangements with Voluntary and Community Groups funded directly by his Department, or through any arm's-length bodies that are within the responsibility of his Department.","answerText":"My Department does not have its own set of Fair Funding Principles. All Departments are working to the Fair Funding Principles as set out in the Partnership Agreement and endorsed by the Executive.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have its own set of Fair Funding Principles. All Departments are working to the Fair Funding Principles as set out in the Partnership Agreement and endorsed by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044765%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481561","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481561"}},{"id":"481560","reference":"AQW 44764/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-24","answerBy":"2026-05-12","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail when the annual Joint Forum report, as outlined in the Partnership Agreement with the Community and Voluntary Sector, will be presented to the Assembly.","answerText":"There is a commitment within the Partnership Agreement between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector that the Joint Forum will report annually to the Assembly and the wider Voluntary and Community Sector on the operation of the Partnership Agreement. The first report is scheduled by the Joint Forum for September 2026.","answerHtml":"There is a commitment within the Partnership Agreement between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector that the Joint Forum will report annually to the Assembly and the wider Voluntary and Community Sector on the operation of the Partnership Agreement. The first report is scheduled by the Joint Forum for September 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044764%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481560","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481560"}},{"id":"481153","reference":"AQW 44552/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-22","answerBy":"2026-05-08","answered":"2026-04-30","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 when she will introduce legislation to ban pavement parking in the 2022-27 Assembly mandate.","answerText":"Following my announcement on 5 November 2025, my officials are now taking forward work to develop the necessary legislation to introduce a blanket ban across the North on parking a vehicle wholly on the footway, parking across dropped kerbs and double parking. It is my aim to introduce these changes in the latter part of 2026, subject to the legislative process.","answerHtml":"Following my announcement on 5 November 2025, my officials are now taking forward work to develop the necessary legislation to introduce a blanket ban across the North on parking a vehicle wholly on the footway, parking across dropped kerbs and double parking. It is my aim to introduce these changes in the latter part of 2026, subject to the legislative process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044552%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481153","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481153"}},{"id":"481152","reference":"AQW 44551/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-22","answerBy":"2026-05-08","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 whether any proactive national programme is in place, or is planned, to examine the sensory health and well-being of people aged 50 and over, including hearing, sight and cognitive assessments.","answerText":"There is currently no proactive, population-wide programme in Northern Ireland that routinely invites all individuals aged 50 and over for combined sight, hearing and cognitive assessment.\n\nHowever, the Northern Ireland Cohort for the Longitudinal Study of Ageing (NICOLA) provides an important research resource. NICOLA is an ongoing study of over 8,000 adults aged 50+ that collects data on health, wellbeing, and social factors to support understanding of ageing and independence. In addition to visual function, retinal imaging, hearing and cognitive measures NICOLA captures a rich and comprehensive range of wellbeing information through its Computer Assisted Personal Interview (CAPI) and self-completion components.\n\nIn terms of routine practice, cognitive assessment is delivered through existing services, with each Health and Social Care Trust providing access via Community Mental Health Teams for Older People (CMHTOP). This includes memory services or pathways primarily for those aged 65 and over who present with memory concerns.\n\nAssessments are also undertaken in GP practices and by specialist services such as psychogeriatric teams. These arrangements are referral-based and responsive to clinical need, covering sensory and cognitive health for the wider population aged 50 and over.\n\nMy Department continues to keep service provision under review to ensure that the needs of our ageing population are appropriately met.","answerHtml":"There is currently no proactive, population-wide programme in Northern Ireland that routinely invites all individuals aged 50 and over for combined sight, hearing and cognitive assessment.
However, the Northern Ireland Cohort for the Longitudinal Study of Ageing (NICOLA) provides an important research resource. NICOLA is an ongoing study of over 8,000 adults aged 50+ that collects data on health, wellbeing, and social factors to support understanding of ageing and independence. In addition to visual function, retinal imaging, hearing and cognitive measures NICOLA captures a rich and comprehensive range of wellbeing information through its Computer Assisted Personal Interview (CAPI) and self-completion components.
In terms of routine practice, cognitive assessment is delivered through existing services, with each Health and Social Care Trust providing access via Community Mental Health Teams for Older People (CMHTOP). This includes memory services or pathways primarily for those aged 65 and over who present with memory concerns.
Assessments are also undertaken in GP practices and by specialist services such as psychogeriatric teams. These arrangements are referral-based and responsive to clinical need, covering sensory and cognitive health for the wider population aged 50 and over.
My Department continues to keep service provision under review to ensure that the needs of our ageing population are appropriately met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044551%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481152","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481152"}},{"id":"481151","reference":"AQW 44550/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-22","answerBy":"2026-05-08","answered":"2026-05-27","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, issued with health service hearing aids, who are on a waiting list for audiology reassessment to assess hearing and update hearing aid equipment, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The number of people waiting for an audiology review appointment having been issued with an HSC hearing aid is shown in the table below and broken down by HSC Trust.\n\nHSC Trust\tNumber of patients waiting for hearing aid review appointment\n\nBelfast\t689\nNorthern\t1,167\nSouth Eastern\t2735\nSouthern\t2,702\nWestern\t556\n\nSource: HSC Trust audiology Departments (May 2026)\n\nNote:\n\nBelfast HSC Trust has 250 patients booked to attend\n\nNorthern HSC Trust has 61 patients booked to attend\n\nThe number of patients waiting in each Trust varies due to some Trusts having long term vacancies in audiology which has reduced capacity. My Department is continually working with Trusts to expand capacity within available resources and explore alternative service provision. If a patient’s hearing aid is broken they should contact their Audiology Department to arrange repairs.","answerHtml":"The number of people waiting for an audiology review appointment having been issued with an HSC hearing aid is shown in the table below and broken down by HSC Trust.
| HSC Trust | Number of patients waiting for hearing aid review appointment |
| Belfast | 689 |
| Northern | 1,167 |
| South Eastern | 2735 |
| Southern | 2,702 |
| Western | 556 |
Source: HSC Trust audiology Departments (May 2026)
Note:
Belfast HSC Trust has 250 patients booked to attend
Northern HSC Trust has 61 patients booked to attend
The number of patients waiting in each Trust varies due to some Trusts having long term vacancies in audiology which has reduced capacity. My Department is continually working with Trusts to expand capacity within available resources and explore alternative service provision. If a patient’s hearing aid is broken they should contact their Audiology Department to arrange repairs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044550%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481151","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481151"}},{"id":"481150","reference":"AQW 44549/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-22","answerBy":"2026-05-08","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any access to employment support available for deafblind people who wish to apply for jobs and participate in job interviews; and (ii) any organisations in receipt of funding from his Department to deliver this specific support.","answerText":"My officials in the Job and Benefits Offices provide personalised employment support to all customers, including individuals who are deafblind. This includes tailored work coach support, adjustments to communication methods to meet individual needs; and assistance with job search, applications and interview preparation. Where required, additional support is arranged, including working with partner organisations to ensure appropriate specialist provision is in place.\n\nAccess to Work (NI) provides support for people with disabilities, including deafblind people in employment, and support to attend a job interview.\n\nThe Department does not fund any organisations for the specific purpose of delivering support to deafblind people who wish to apply for jobs and participate in job interviews.","answerHtml":"My officials in the Job and Benefits Offices provide personalised employment support to all customers, including individuals who are deafblind. This includes tailored work coach support, adjustments to communication methods to meet individual needs; and assistance with job search, applications and interview preparation. Where required, additional support is arranged, including working with partner organisations to ensure appropriate specialist provision is in place.
Access to Work (NI) provides support for people with disabilities, including deafblind people in employment, and support to attend a job interview.
The Department does not fund any organisations for the specific purpose of delivering support to deafblind people who wish to apply for jobs and participate in job interviews.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044549%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481150","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481150"}},{"id":"481149","reference":"AQW 44548/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-22","answerBy":"2026-05-08","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any arrangements in place to support deafblind people to apply for, attend, and participate in interviews, as part of the Personal Independence Payment process.","answerText":"The Department is committed to ensuring accessibility for all customers throughout the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) application and assessment process.\n\nHelp available at the application stage for deafblind people includes:\n\nthe application of reasonable adjustments throughout the PIP process;\n\nuse of alternative application formats such as Braille, Video Relay Service and textphone;\n\nwhere a customer is unable to manage their benefit claim because of their disability, an appointee can be approved to act on their behalf; and\n\nthe Make the Call Service can conduct face-to-face home visits to assist with application completion and signposting those with dual sensory loss to specialist partner organisations such as DeafBlind UK.\n\nIn addition, help available at the assessment stage includes:\n\nTraining and guidance for all Health Professionals on sensory loss and agreeing preferred communication methods directly with the claimant;\n\nReview of cases to ensure early identification of communication needs and sensory impairments;\n\nAppropriate assessment routing to facilitate the use of sign language interpreters or other qualified communication support as appropriate for assessments;\n\nThe facility to be accompanied by a companion; and\n\nUse of paper-based assessments where there is severe sensory impairment and sufficient supporting evidence exists.","answerHtml":"The Department is committed to ensuring accessibility for all customers throughout the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) application and assessment process.
Help available at the application stage for deafblind people includes:
the application of reasonable adjustments throughout the PIP process;
use of alternative application formats such as Braille, Video Relay Service and textphone;
where a customer is unable to manage their benefit claim because of their disability, an appointee can be approved to act on their behalf; and
the Make the Call Service can conduct face-to-face home visits to assist with application completion and signposting those with dual sensory loss to specialist partner organisations such as DeafBlind UK.
In addition, help available at the assessment stage includes:
Training and guidance for all Health Professionals on sensory loss and agreeing preferred communication methods directly with the claimant;
Review of cases to ensure early identification of communication needs and sensory impairments;
Appropriate assessment routing to facilitate the use of sign language interpreters or other qualified communication support as appropriate for assessments;
The facility to be accompanied by a companion; and
Use of paper-based assessments where there is severe sensory impairment and sufficient supporting evidence exists.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044548%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481149","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481149"}},{"id":"480935","reference":"AQW 44440/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-21","answerBy":"2026-05-07","answered":"2026-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will meet with the Minister for Infrastructure and her officials to discuss constraints on town centre regeneration arising from NI Water's designation of areas, such as Newtownards town centre, as a closed capture area, resulting in planning applications to bring derelict buildings back into use being refused because NI Water will not to connect those buildings to the waste water and sewage network.","answerText":"I am not aware of any regeneration schemes, funded by my Department in Newtownards, which have stalled as a result of this issue. Therefore, I do not have any plans to arrange a meeting.","answerHtml":"I am not aware of any regeneration schemes, funded by my Department in Newtownards, which have stalled as a result of this issue. Therefore, I do not have any plans to arrange a meeting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044440%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480935","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480935"}},{"id":"480934","reference":"AQW 44439/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-21","answerBy":"2026-05-07","answered":"2026-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the Fair Funding Principles adopted by his Department to ensure Voluntary and Community Sector organisations are provided with grant funding in a timely manner that does not require recipients to take out a bank loan, or use reserves outside their published Reserve Policy.","answerText":"The Fair Funding Principles are intended to provide high-level guidance to support and build good practice across a range of funding relationships.\n\nApproaches to funding will necessarily vary according to the specific requirements of individual programmes, including expenditure levels, the scale and complexity of service delivery, and related risk and assurance requirements. The fair funding principles are adopted within the bounds of Managing Public Money NI and funding arrangements must operate within an appropriate financial management framework. Funded organisations remain responsible for their own financial governance and long-term sustainability.","answerHtml":"The Fair Funding Principles are intended to provide high-level guidance to support and build good practice across a range of funding relationships.
Approaches to funding will necessarily vary according to the specific requirements of individual programmes, including expenditure levels, the scale and complexity of service delivery, and related risk and assurance requirements. The fair funding principles are adopted within the bounds of Managing Public Money NI and funding arrangements must operate within an appropriate financial management framework. Funded organisations remain responsible for their own financial governance and long-term sustainability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044439%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480934","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480934"}},{"id":"480933","reference":"AQW 44438/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-21","answerBy":"2026-05-07","answered":"2026-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) an update on the process to recruit a new CEO of the Housing Executive; (ii) when he expects the arm's-length body to provide him with a list of candidates to consider; and (iii) whether he will produce the criteria he will be using to select a candidate.","answerText":"The closing date for applications to the Housing Executive was the 09 April 2026. The assessment process is ongoing. The planned date to have the new CEO in place is by September 2026.\n\nI do not receive a list. The role of the Department in this process is in line with Article 5 of the Housing (Northern Ireland) Order 1981; with the recommendations contained in DAO (DoF) 05/17 (Appointment / Designation of Accounting Officers); and the relevant provisions of the Partnership Agreement which, as with all ALBs and sponsor departments, defines the governance and oversight relationship between my department and NIHE. What this means practically in this case is:\n\nThe proposed criteria, along with terms and conditions, since published in the recruitment pack when the position was advertised, were subject to departmental approval – and I was content that this should be provided.\n\nthe panel, which includes my Permanent Secretary, the Chair of the Housing Executive Board, and other Board Members, will select a successful candidate. The appointment of this selected candidate will also be subject to Departmental approval.\n\nThe information I will receive in respect of this approval will be the evidence provided by the selected applicant against the criteria published by the NIHE. A particular focus of the department will be to ensure that the successful applicant has demonstrated the required knowledge, understanding or experience of the responsibilities of being the Accounting Officer of the Housing Executive.","answerHtml":"The closing date for applications to the Housing Executive was the 09 April 2026. The assessment process is ongoing. The planned date to have the new CEO in place is by September 2026.
I do not receive a list. The role of the Department in this process is in line with Article 5 of the Housing (Northern Ireland) Order 1981; with the recommendations contained in DAO (DoF) 05/17 (Appointment / Designation of Accounting Officers); and the relevant provisions of the Partnership Agreement which, as with all ALBs and sponsor departments, defines the governance and oversight relationship between my department and NIHE. What this means practically in this case is:
The proposed criteria, along with terms and conditions, since published in the recruitment pack when the position was advertised, were subject to departmental approval – and I was content that this should be provided.
the panel, which includes my Permanent Secretary, the Chair of the Housing Executive Board, and other Board Members, will select a successful candidate. The appointment of this selected candidate will also be subject to Departmental approval.
The information I will receive in respect of this approval will be the evidence provided by the selected applicant against the criteria published by the NIHE. A particular focus of the department will be to ensure that the successful applicant has demonstrated the required knowledge, understanding or experience of the responsibilities of being the Accounting Officer of the Housing Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044438%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480933","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480933"}},{"id":"480932","reference":"AQW 44437/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-21","answerBy":"2026-05-07","answered":"2026-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of social housing developments which have been refused planning permission due to opposition from NI Water, in (i) 2024-2025; and (ii) 2025-2026, broken down by council area.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Interim Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive does not hold a definitive figure for the number of new social housing developments objected to or refused by NI Water at planning application stage. This is because development proposals are at various stages of the planning process, and NI Water’s position can change as conditions are addressed or solutions identified through the Wastewater Impact Assessment (WWiA) process. Some schemes receive planning approval with NI Water conditionality, which is later resolved. Others face initial refusal pending WWiA outcomes, but approval may follow once solutions are agreed.\n\nIn summer 2025, NI Water carried out a high-level risk assessment of the 3-year Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) ‘New Bids’. Based on data provided in August 2025:\n\n2,751 units: Solution possible, no issues envisaged.\n\n1,302 units: Requires developer engagement to determine if a solution is possible.\n\n649 units: Requires NI Water capital works upgrade.\n\nAs we are progressing the new approved 3-year Social Housing Development programme, we will be reviewing this status again alongside NIW over the coming months.\n\nThe Housing Executive continues to engage with NI Water and other stakeholders to manage these risks proactively”.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Interim Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive does not hold a definitive figure for the number of new social housing developments objected to or refused by NI Water at planning application stage. This is because development proposals are at various stages of the planning process, and NI Water’s position can change as conditions are addressed or solutions identified through the Wastewater Impact Assessment (WWiA) process. Some schemes receive planning approval with NI Water conditionality, which is later resolved. Others face initial refusal pending WWiA outcomes, but approval may follow once solutions are agreed.
In summer 2025, NI Water carried out a high-level risk assessment of the 3-year Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) ‘New Bids’. Based on data provided in August 2025:
2,751 units: Solution possible, no issues envisaged.
1,302 units: Requires developer engagement to determine if a solution is possible.
649 units: Requires NI Water capital works upgrade.
As we are progressing the new approved 3-year Social Housing Development programme, we will be reviewing this status again alongside NIW over the coming months.
The Housing Executive continues to engage with NI Water and other stakeholders to manage these risks proactively”.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044437%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480932","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480932"}},{"id":"480931","reference":"AQW 44436/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-21","answerBy":"2026-05-07","answered":"2026-07-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of identified plots of public land which have been identified for potential use for social housing located in areas where NI Water has designated a closed capture area.","answerText":"We do not hold the information in the format requested.","answerHtml":"We do not hold the information in the format requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044436%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480931","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480931"}},{"id":"480504","reference":"AQW 44211/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-17","answerBy":"2026-05-05","answered":"2026-05-01","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 any progress made towards implementing a revised Decent Homes Standard, given that the recent consultation closed on 4 March 2026.","answerText":"The Department is currently analysing all consultation responses and recommendations. This work will inform the development of a draft summary report, which the Department aims to publish by summer 2026.\n\nSubject to the outcome of this analysis, the Department intends to finalise and publish the revised Decent Homes Standard by the end of 2026. It is anticipated the revised standard will come into effect in 2030/31.","answerHtml":"The Department is currently analysing all consultation responses and recommendations. This work will inform the development of a draft summary report, which the Department aims to publish by summer 2026.
Subject to the outcome of this analysis, the Department intends to finalise and publish the revised Decent Homes Standard by the end of 2026. It is anticipated the revised standard will come into effect in 2030/31.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044211%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480504","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480504"}},{"id":"480503","reference":"AQW 44210/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-17","answerBy":"2026-05-05","answered":"2026-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will bring forward legislation on the revised Decent Homes Standard before the end of this mandate.","answerText":"No, there is no intention to bring forward legislation on the revised Decent Homes Standard before the end of the current Assembly mandate.\n\nThe Decent Homes Standard is an administrative standard, established and regulated within my Department’s existing governance and regulatory framework, rather than through legislation.","answerHtml":"No, there is no intention to bring forward legislation on the revised Decent Homes Standard before the end of the current Assembly mandate.
The Decent Homes Standard is an administrative standard, established and regulated within my Department’s existing governance and regulatory framework, rather than through legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044210%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480503","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480503"}},{"id":"480270","reference":"AQW 44094/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-16","answerBy":"2026-05-01","answered":"2026-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following the recent introduction of the Baby Loss Certificate Scheme, whether he will (i) review; and (ii) update (a) the Social Fund rules to include a category under Relationship with person who has died for a parent of a baby miscarried before 24 weeks of pregnancy; and (b) the Child Funeral Fund to provide a one-off lump sum payment to cover the expense of a funeral of a child lost through miscarriage before the 24th week of pregnancy.","answerText":"There are no current plans to review or update the Social Fund rules or the Child Funeral Fund to cover the expense of a funeral of a child lost through miscarriage before the 24th week of pregnancy.","answerHtml":"There are no current plans to review or update the Social Fund rules or the Child Funeral Fund to cover the expense of a funeral of a child lost through miscarriage before the 24th week of pregnancy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044094%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480270","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480270"}},{"id":"480269","reference":"AQW 44093/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-16","answerBy":"2026-05-01","answered":"2026-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) an update on any progress his Department has made to revitalise the Housing Executive, given there has been no approval from HM Treasury to give power to the arm's-length body to borrow against its own income; and (ii) any other options now being considered.","answerText":"The NIHE already has powers to borrow, it is specifically the budgeting treatment which needs to be agreed. The June 2025 Spending Review secured agreement that NIHE borrowing would be addressed through immediate negotiations between the UK Government and NI Executive on a full NI Fiscal Framework. My Department is pressing urgently on this matter to secure approval.\n\nWhile these discussions continue, my focus is on maximising the investment NIHE can afford, targeting that investment towards the most pressing priorities and identifying how the NI Executive and my Department can best support NIHE in the interim period.","answerHtml":"The NIHE already has powers to borrow, it is specifically the budgeting treatment which needs to be agreed. The June 2025 Spending Review secured agreement that NIHE borrowing would be addressed through immediate negotiations between the UK Government and NI Executive on a full NI Fiscal Framework. My Department is pressing urgently on this matter to secure approval.
While these discussions continue, my focus is on maximising the investment NIHE can afford, targeting that investment towards the most pressing priorities and identifying how the NI Executive and my Department can best support NIHE in the interim period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044093%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480269","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480269"}},{"id":"480268","reference":"AQW 44092/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-16","answerBy":"2026-05-01","answered":"2026-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any funding streams available, through the Heritage Division, to support community associations (i) to recruit, train and support volunteers; (ii) to provide staff to open and operate heritage sites, such as Kirkistown Castle in Cloughey; and (iii) to enable public access to heritage sites that are currently closed.","answerText":"There are no Historic Environment Division funding streams to support community associations in the recruitment, training and support of volunteers. However, my Department remains committed to constructive engagement with local communities to support appropriate access to, and enjoyment of, our shared heritage wherever circumstances allow.\n\nMy officials within the Historic Environment Division work closely with community groups involved at several State Care Monuments. These arrangements range from simple key-holding duties to a more structured site presence and visitor engagement. With such arrangements, my officials provide sitespecific guidance, briefings and advice to enable volunteers to deliver a welcoming, safe and accurate visitor experience. This includes training relating to site history and interpretation, health and safety considerations, and appropriate visitor management.\n\nThe suitability of such arrangements are assessed on a sitebysite basis, taking account of factors such as the condition of the monument, public safety considerations and conservation requirements. My officials are keen to explore opportunities with local communities to improve public access to State Care Monuments, such as Kirkistown Castle, which are currently closed, where this can be achieved safely and sustainably.\n\nAny community associations interested in discussing potential involvement with State Care Monuments are encouraged to contact the Historic Environment Division at SCMenquiries@communitiesni.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"There are no Historic Environment Division funding streams to support community associations in the recruitment, training and support of volunteers. However, my Department remains committed to constructive engagement with local communities to support appropriate access to, and enjoyment of, our shared heritage wherever circumstances allow.
My officials within the Historic Environment Division work closely with community groups involved at several State Care Monuments. These arrangements range from simple key-holding duties to a more structured site presence and visitor engagement. With such arrangements, my officials provide sitespecific guidance, briefings and advice to enable volunteers to deliver a welcoming, safe and accurate visitor experience. This includes training relating to site history and interpretation, health and safety considerations, and appropriate visitor management.
The suitability of such arrangements are assessed on a sitebysite basis, taking account of factors such as the condition of the monument, public safety considerations and conservation requirements. My officials are keen to explore opportunities with local communities to improve public access to State Care Monuments, such as Kirkistown Castle, which are currently closed, where this can be achieved safely and sustainably.
Any community associations interested in discussing potential involvement with State Care Monuments are encouraged to contact the Historic Environment Division at SCMenquiries@communitiesni.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044092%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480268","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480268"}},{"id":"480267","reference":"AQW 44091/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-16","answerBy":"2026-05-01","answered":"2026-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following a recent meeting of his officials and the local community, for an update on any plans to reopen Kirkistown Castle, Cloughey, to allow public access to this heritage facility that has been closed since Covid.","answerText":"There are no plans to reopen Kirkistown Castle to the public on a regular basis at this time. The site requires significant investment to address known conservation issues, including water ingress at roof level. However, a limited opening for European Heritage Open Days in September may be possible, subject to the usual application process and safety considerations. In support of this, small‑scale, enabling conservation works are currently planned.","answerHtml":"There are no plans to reopen Kirkistown Castle to the public on a regular basis at this time. The site requires significant investment to address known conservation issues, including water ingress at roof level. However, a limited opening for European Heritage Open Days in September may be possible, subject to the usual application process and safety considerations. In support of this, small‑scale, enabling conservation works are currently planned.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044091%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480267","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480267"}},{"id":"480266","reference":"AQW 44090/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-16","answerBy":"2026-05-01","answered":"2026-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will review and revise the amount awarded for a Funeral Expenses Payment, given the significant difference between the amount awarded and the current cost of funerals.","answerText":"There is no plan to review the amount awarded for a Funeral Expenses Payment.","answerHtml":"There is no plan to review the amount awarded for a Funeral Expenses Payment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044090%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480266","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480266"}},{"id":"480057","reference":"AQW 43975/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-15","answerBy":"2026-04-20","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how (i) the changes to 26/27 Small Pockets of Deprivation (SPOD) funding processes, as notified to Neighbourhood Renewal, Areas at Risk, and SPOD voluntary and community organisations, which included confirmation programme and running costs will be claimed retrospectively following submission of claims, preferably every six months, is upholding the spirit of the Fair Funding Principles outlined in the Partnership Agreement with the Community and Voluntary Sector; and (ii) he has ensured that these organisations are not required to operate outside Good Governance and Charity Commission rules by using reserves for a purpose outside their permitted policy arrangements in order to deliver services.","answerText":"I refer the Member to my response to AQW 43366/22-27","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to my response to AQW 43366/22-27
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043975%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480057","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480057"}},{"id":"480842","reference":"AQO 3444/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-26","answerBy":"2026-04-21","answered":"2026-04-21","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 the delivery of support for childcare providers.","answerText":"My Department is actively developing a specialised business support service for childcare providers. Officials are developing the service specification and undertaking extensive engagement with stakeholders from both within and outside government. This collaborative approach is vital to ensure the Childcare Business Support Service is tailored to reflect the sector’s diversity and to address providers’ needs effectively. Stakeholder input will help design a model that is fit for purpose and supports sustainable growth.\n\nAlongside this, childcare providers continue to benefit from ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeships. These programmes fully cover training costs for occupational qualifications for staff working in the sector. Employers are eligible for incentive payments when an apprentice successfully completes all elements of a Level 2 or Level 3 framework, payable on completion at each level.\n\nChildcare providers may also be eligible for business support from Go Succeed, the council led business support service and Invest NI.","answerHtml":"My Department is actively developing a specialised business support service for childcare providers. Officials are developing the service specification and undertaking extensive engagement with stakeholders from both within and outside government. This collaborative approach is vital to ensure the Childcare Business Support Service is tailored to reflect the sector’s diversity and to address providers’ needs effectively. Stakeholder input will help design a model that is fit for purpose and supports sustainable growth.
Alongside this, childcare providers continue to benefit from ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeships. These programmes fully cover training costs for occupational qualifications for staff working in the sector. Employers are eligible for incentive payments when an apprentice successfully completes all elements of a Level 2 or Level 3 framework, payable on completion at each level.
Childcare providers may also be eligible for business support from Go Succeed, the council led business support service and Invest NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203444%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480842","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480842"}},{"id":"480773","reference":"AQO 3433/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-26","answerBy":"2026-04-20","answered":"2026-04-20","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 any meetings he has held with the Housing Executive on the Task and Finish group set up through Homeless Connect regarding the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol.","answerText":"I have not held any meetings with the Housing Executive specifically on the work of this group.\n\nThe Housing Executive has informed me that while the original proposal was that a Task and Finish Group should be established, it was later agreed that it would instead establish a Homelessness Local Area Group for Belfast City Council area.\n\nThe Local Area Group will bring together a range of statutory and voluntary sector representatives from across the homelessness sector and provide a long-term framework through which the Housing Executive will engage on issues relating to homelessness delivery in Belfast.\n\nWhat I have done is prioritise funding for all homelessness services: record levels of funding for temporary accommodation and the first ever ring-fenced allocation for homelessness prevention. This allocation is maintained in the initial 26/27 budget provided to the NIHE while departmental budgets remain to be agreed. I have invested capital funding and FTC respectively in providing new homelessness services under the New Foundations and LAMA Programmes. In the meantime I have directed officials towards detailed assurances on the NIHE’s delivery of its Out-of-Hours service both when SWEP is in place and when not.","answerHtml":"I have not held any meetings with the Housing Executive specifically on the work of this group.
The Housing Executive has informed me that while the original proposal was that a Task and Finish Group should be established, it was later agreed that it would instead establish a Homelessness Local Area Group for Belfast City Council area.
The Local Area Group will bring together a range of statutory and voluntary sector representatives from across the homelessness sector and provide a long-term framework through which the Housing Executive will engage on issues relating to homelessness delivery in Belfast.
What I have done is prioritise funding for all homelessness services: record levels of funding for temporary accommodation and the first ever ring-fenced allocation for homelessness prevention. This allocation is maintained in the initial 26/27 budget provided to the NIHE while departmental budgets remain to be agreed. I have invested capital funding and FTC respectively in providing new homelessness services under the New Foundations and LAMA Programmes. In the meantime I have directed officials towards detailed assurances on the NIHE’s delivery of its Out-of-Hours service both when SWEP is in place and when not.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203433%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480773","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480773"}},{"id":"478058","reference":"AQO 3420/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-26","answerBy":"2026-04-20","answered":"2026-04-20","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 role that nature-based solutions play in Northern Ireland’s Third Climate Change Adaptation Programme.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"Mr Speaker, with your permission, I will group questions 3 and 12. Since becoming Minister, I have had regular engagement on coastal management issues, including meetings with stakeholders, briefings from my officials and discussions with the Minister for Infrastructure. The coastal forum is a collaborative partnership involving local councils, the National Trust, my Department and the Department for Infrastructure, supported by an effective working group that continues to deliver the agreed work programme. Key achievements include a £2·5 million investment by my Department in coastal evidence gathering, resulting in complete coverage of the coastline. Building on that collaboration, partners have also secured €9·6 million from the PEACE PLUS programme for the coastal monitoring and adaptation planning project. As witnessed again this winter, coastal communities and infrastructure are already experiencing the impacts of climate change. Those impacts underline the urgent need for action that is set out in the third Northern Ireland climate change adaptation programme (NICCAP), which was published last month. The programme includes actions on coastal resilience that take account of the Climate Change Committee's (CCC) recommendation that the Executive consider introducing legislation on coastal change and the designation of responsibility to a Department. The climate change adaptation programme also outlines the role that nature-based solutions can perform in coastal areas, where blue carbon habitats such as salt marsh, seagrass, kelp forests and mussel beds not only store carbon but improve coastal resilience by reducing wave energy and help to limit erosion and storm impacts. More broadly, actions to restore peatlands, woodlands, grasslands and healthy soils reduce flood risk by slowing and storing water, while nature-based solutions in urban areas, such as sustainable drainage systems and urban greening, help to manage surface water and reduce heat impacts."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"I have to say, Minister, that I find the grouping somewhat tenuous. Nonetheless, I will let you off with it this time."},{"speaker":"Mr Martin","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. Minister, I asked your co-chair, the Sinn Féin Minister for Infrastructure, about some of the key developments over the past two years. She replied by telling me that £2 million — you referenced that figure — had been invested in \"establishing the baseline\". As I said, you made reference to that. Is it acceptable that, for the past two years, £2 million has, in effect, been spent on research and little has been done practically to protect the north Down coastline or, in fact, any other coastline in Northern Ireland?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"By way of a response to the Speaker, I am happy to take question 12 separately, if that is so desired. I find it a bit rich for the DUP to lecture me on climate change when the actions that I am trying to take to address the impacts of climate change have been stymied by its Department again and again. The climate change adaptation programme sat in the Executive for months before I could get agreement to publish it. We are seeking to take action on the issue. The institutions did not sit for two years, so I am seeking to catch up on the progress that should have been made. We are clear about the impact of climate change around Northern Ireland. We seek to take forward the climate change adaptation programme and deal with the issues associated with coastal erosion. The most fundamental thing that we can do, however, is to acknowledge that there is a climate change problem rather than continue to deny it."},{"speaker":"Ms K Armstrong","text":"Thank you, Minister, for the update on the nature-based solutions and the role that they will play in the third climate change adaptation programme. I should declare an interest: I am a member of the Ards peninsula coastal erosion group, and I have been out at Anne's Point, Mount Stewart, where people can see how nature-based solutions are solving some problems of flooding. You mentioned that the climate change adaptation programme sets out the requirement for a lead Department. Will you provide the next steps in designating the lead Department that will oversee coastal management?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"Steps are set out in NICCAP for the designation of that Department. It is important that that take place. It will also require legislation, which will have to be taken forward in the next mandate. A number of actions need to be taken forward, and we seek to do that collaboratively across government and with stakeholders."},{"speaker":"Mr McGrath","text":"Whilst the Minister mentioned lots of investment in preventative work and the mapping exercise, there are still examples in constituencies such as mine of South Down where people fear that they will lose their gardens, their homes and roads."},{"speaker":"","text":"As well as looking to the future, is there any way in which finance could be made available where something of that nature is perilously close to happening to help people with the imminent issues?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"I am conscious of the impact that coastal erosion has on local communities. As the Member knows, it is a cross-cutting issue, and that is why we need to designate a Department and legislate for that. In the existing framework, responsibility for infrastructure such as sea walls, roads and harbours sits with the Department for Infrastructure, which manages and maintains those assets and carries out repairs and assessments, such as those in Donaghadee, where damage occurred recently. I highlight the need for everyone, including councils, to work together. We have to take a holistic approach, part of which involves nature-based solutions. We are conscious not only of the costs associated with hard infrastructure but of how it potentially moves the problem down the coast. If there are particular issues in the Member's constituency, I am happy to consider them in correspondence and follow them up with the relevant Ministers."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203420%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=478058","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-04-20&docID=480111#AQO%203420/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=478058"}},{"id":"477662","reference":"AQW 43087/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-24","answerBy":"2026-04-10","answered":"2026-04-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any actions he is taking, through his Department and its arm's-length bodies, to set up a multi disciplinary hub in Belfast as identified by the Homelessness Prevention Forum.","answerText":"My Department allocates approximately £4.3m annually to the Housing Executive for Community Prevention activity. This allocation provides core funding for several organisations, including the Welcome Organisation’s Support Hub.\n\nThe support hub provides service users with access to basic needs including meals, clothes, showers and respite. Welcome staff provide intensive support work both on a one-to-one basis as well as via group activities. This includes housing referrals, the promotion of life skills including the setting up bank accounts and support with benefits, and clinics linking with other professional services. They also make appointments for service users with health-care professionals at their mobile health unit.","answerHtml":"My Department allocates approximately £4.3m annually to the Housing Executive for Community Prevention activity. This allocation provides core funding for several organisations, including the Welcome Organisation’s Support Hub.
The support hub provides service users with access to basic needs including meals, clothes, showers and respite. Welcome staff provide intensive support work both on a one-to-one basis as well as via group activities. This includes housing referrals, the promotion of life skills including the setting up bank accounts and support with benefits, and clinics linking with other professional services. They also make appointments for service users with health-care professionals at their mobile health unit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043087%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477662","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477662"}},{"id":"477661","reference":"AQW 43086/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-24","answerBy":"2026-04-10","answered":"2026-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the reason why he has not released grant funding for voluntary and community services organisations delivering homelessness prevention and support services for quarter one of the 2026-2027 financial year.","answerText":"In the absence of an agreed budget I have made an initial allocation to the Housing Executive and other ALBs to allow for the continuation of vital services and provide a level of budget certainty for the first three months of 2026/27.","answerHtml":"In the absence of an agreed budget I have made an initial allocation to the Housing Executive and other ALBs to allow for the continuation of vital services and provide a level of budget certainty for the first three months of 2026/27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043086%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477661","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477661"}},{"id":"477660","reference":"AQW 43085/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-24","answerBy":"2026-04-10","answered":"2026-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) whether he will provide a copy of any guidance produced by his Department or any of its arms-length bodies, that requires all exhibitions and presentations funded by public money to include fact based interpretive text; and (ii) any steps he will take ensure USA NI 250 exhibitions acknowledge that some individuals highlighted as part of that project may have been slave owners or traders, or used their position to support slavery.","answerText":"No specific guidance has been produced, and exhibitions and presentations are assessed on a case-by-case basis by the host organisation.\n\nThe Department recognises the autonomy of those organisations hosting exhibitions in determining their operational and interpretive approaches.","answerHtml":"No specific guidance has been produced, and exhibitions and presentations are assessed on a case-by-case basis by the host organisation.
The Department recognises the autonomy of those organisations hosting exhibitions in determining their operational and interpretive approaches.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043085%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477660","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477660"}},{"id":"477659","reference":"AQW 43084/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-24","answerBy":"2026-04-10","answered":"2026-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will provide a copy of his Ministerial diary from the time he started travelling to the United States for St Patrick's Day, until his return to Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I refer the member to AQW 42996/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the member to AQW 42996/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043084%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477659","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477659"}},{"id":"477658","reference":"AQW 43083/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-24","answerBy":"2026-04-10","answered":"2026-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of visitors to PRONI; and (ii) a breakdown of the countries visitors have come from, for each of the last five years.","answerText":"The attached statistics are taken from the annual Digest of Statistics for the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland which is validated by the Northern Ireland Statistical Research Agency. The Digest for 2024-25 is currently being collated and is not yet available, however the published figures for 2019-2024 are included below.\n\nThe Digest only validates countries-of-origin for new visitors. The percentage numbers for those are attached below. During the lockdowns of 2020-21, PRONI was only able to accommodate existing visitors so there is no country-of-origin data available for that year.\n\nYear\tTotal Visitors\n2023-24\t16,060\n2022-23\t8,857\n2021-22\t8,407\n2020-21\t5,424\n2019-20\t17,798\n\nBreakdown of Visitors per Country of Origin\n2023-24\t2022-23\t2021-22\t2020-21\t2019-20\nNorthern Ireland\t48%\t53%\t66%\t-\t44%\nUSA\t18%\t15%\t4%\t-\t19%\nEngland & Wales\t11%\t14%\t11%\t-\t12%\nCanada\t7%\t5%\t4%\t-\t7%\nAustralia & New Zealand\t6%\t3%\t4%\t-\t9%\nIreland\t5%\t6%\t8%\t-\t4%\nScotland\t3%\t1%\t\t-\t2%\nOther\t1%\t0%\t2%\t-\t2%\nDon’t Know\t-\t-\t2%\t-\t-","answerHtml":"The attached statistics are taken from the annual Digest of Statistics for the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland which is validated by the Northern Ireland Statistical Research Agency. The Digest for 2024-25 is currently being collated and is not yet available, however the published figures for 2019-2024 are included below.
The Digest only validates countries-of-origin for new visitors. The percentage numbers for those are attached below. During the lockdowns of 2020-21, PRONI was only able to accommodate existing visitors so there is no country-of-origin data available for that year.
| Year | Total Visitors |
| 2023-24 | 16,060 |
| 2022-23 | 8,857 |
| 2021-22 | 8,407 |
| 2020-21 | 5,424 |
| 2019-20 | 17,798 |
| Breakdown of Visitors per Country of Origin | |||||
| 2023-24 | 2022-23 | 2021-22 | 2020-21 | 2019-20 | |
| Northern Ireland | 48% | 53% | 66% | - | 44% |
| USA | 18% | 15% | 4% | - | 19% |
| England & Wales | 11% | 14% | 11% | - | 12% |
| Canada | 7% | 5% | 4% | - | 7% |
| Australia & New Zealand | 6% | 3% | 4% | - | 9% |
| Ireland | 5% | 6% | 8% | - | 4% |
| Scotland | 3% | 1% | - | 2% | |
| Other | 1% | 0% | 2% | - | 2% |
| Don’t Know | - | - | 2% | - | - |
My Department has direct responsibility for the Civil Service Pension Scheme. This scheme is of an ‘unfunded’ defined benefit design. This means there is no fund, or associated investments.
It can be noted that the other public service schemes are of a similar unfunded design, with the exception of the Local Government Pension Scheme, which is the responsibility of the Department for Communities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042876%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477208","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477208"}},{"id":"476945","reference":"AQW 42794/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-03","answered":"2026-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail whether he (i) will provide copies of any (a) emails; and (b) minutes of meetings held by him, or his departmental officials, in respect of Developer Contributions; and (ii) has sought an exemption from Developer Contributions for housing associations building homes using the Housing Association Grant.","answerText":"There have been no meetings held by me or my Departmental Officials in relation to the recent announcement on Developer Contributions.\n\nIt is my understanding from the Department for Infrastructure’s recent announcement that Developer Contributions are to be voluntary. I have not sought an exemption from Developer Contributions for housing associations building homes using the Housing Association Grant.","answerHtml":"There have been no meetings held by me or my Departmental Officials in relation to the recent announcement on Developer Contributions.
It is my understanding from the Department for Infrastructure’s recent announcement that Developer Contributions are to be voluntary. I have not sought an exemption from Developer Contributions for housing associations building homes using the Housing Association Grant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042794%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476945","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476945"}},{"id":"476944","reference":"AQW 42793/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-03","answered":"2026-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following the Minister for Infrastructure's statement on Developer Contributions for Wastewater Infrastructure on 18 March 2026, to detail any impact this will have on the ability of housing associations to be able to afford to build homes under the new Housing Association Grant terms.","answerText":"The Minister for Infrastructure’s statement advised that developer contributions for wastewater infrastructure would be voluntary.\n\nThe Total Cost Indicators Benchmarking system which is used to establish Housing Association Grant reflects actual costs incurred by the sector. The Department will continue to monitor the costs submitted by Housing Associations.","answerHtml":"The Minister for Infrastructure’s statement advised that developer contributions for wastewater infrastructure would be voluntary.
The Total Cost Indicators Benchmarking system which is used to establish Housing Association Grant reflects actual costs incurred by the sector. The Department will continue to monitor the costs submitted by Housing Associations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042793%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476944","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476944"}},{"id":"476943","reference":"AQW 42792/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-03","answered":"2026-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of patients who have been reimbursed for treatment costs for cataract surgery under the Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme (WLRS) commenced 2 June 2025. To date my Department has approved fewer than 5 WLRS applications for cataract surgery. We have not yet received any claims for reimbursement of cataract surgery under the Scheme.","answerHtml":"The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme (WLRS) commenced 2 June 2025. To date my Department has approved fewer than 5 WLRS applications for cataract surgery. We have not yet received any claims for reimbursement of cataract surgery under the Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042792%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476943","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476943"}},{"id":"476942","reference":"AQW 42791/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-03","answered":"2026-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of people who are on inpatient waiting lists for (a) cataract surgery; and (b) Posterior Capsule Opacification treated by Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet laser capsulotomy, in each Heath and Social Care Trust, and (ii) the number of these surgeries or treatments that have been carried out in each quarter of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) and Western Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT) are the two provider Trusts of Ophthalmic Services on behalf of the region.\n\nIn BHSCT the number of people who are on inpatient waiting lists for (a) cataract surgery is 2789 patients and (b) 615 awaiting an outpatient procedure for Posterior Capsule Opacification treated by Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet laser capsulotomy.\n\nIn the WHSCT there are currently 1,064 on the cataract surgical inpatient waiting list and 145 awaiting an outpatient procedure for Posterior Capsule Opacification treated by Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet laser capsulotomy.\n\nThe number of cataract surgeries performed in Health and Social Care Trust hospitals in Northern Ireland in each quarter of the last five years, from 2020/21 to 2024/25 are tabled below.\n\nYear\tQuarter\tHealth and Social Care Trust\nBelfast\tNorthern\tSouth Eastern\tSouthern\tWestern\n2020/21\tQE Jun 20\t250\t8\t79\t0\t40\n2020/21\tQE Sep 20\t179\t212\t374\t158\t225\n2020/21\tQE Dec 20\t187\t73\t521\t153\t250\n2020/21\tQE Mar 21\t184\t0\t99\t155\t110\n2021/22\tQE Jun 21\t257\t266\t623\t333\t267\n2021/22\tQE Sep 21\t187\t110\t538\t160\t192\n2021/22\tQE Dec 21\t150\t36\t612\t286\t386\n2021/22\tQE Mar 22\t204\t263\t533\t346\t420\n2022/23\tQE Jun 22\t233\t348\t711\t433\t383\n2022/23\tQE Sep 22\t284\t323\t679\t403\t351\n2022/23\tQE Dec 22\t276\t413\t640\t454\t227\n2022/23\tQE Mar 23\t341\t358\t474\t413\t225\n2023/24\tQE Jun 23\t274\t371\t541\t381\t283\n2023/24\tQE Sep 23\t260\t337\t531\t383\t254\n2023/24\tQE Dec 23\t287\t443\t527\t433\t274\n2023/24\tQE Mar 24\t407\t463\t602\t467\t265\n2024/25\tQE Jun 24\t330\t446\t488\t329\t378\n2024/25\tQE Sep 24\t156\t458\t487\t325\t442\n2024/25\tQE Dec 24\t241\t317\t634\t342\t429\n2024/25\tQE Mar 25\t174\t382\t660\t241\t364\n\nSource: Hospital Inpatient System, Hospital Activity Information Branch, Information & Analysis Directorate, Department of Health, NI.\n\nThe number of patients with Posterior Capsule Opacification treated by Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (YAG) Laser Capsulotomy in Health and Social Care Hospitals in Northern Ireland in each quarter from 2020/21 to 2024/25 is tabled below.\n\nYear\tQuarter\tHealth Trust\nBelfast\tWestern\n2020/21\tQE Jun 20\t4\t4\n2020/21\tQE Sep 20\t105\t4\n2020/21\tQE Dec 20\t120\t4\n2020/21\tQE Mar 21\t132\t2\n2021/22\tQE Jun 21\t121\t5\n2021/22\tQE Sep 21\t126\t7\n2021/22\tQE Dec 21\t110\t6\n2021/22\tQE Mar 22\t141\t12\n2022/23\tQE Jun 22\t96\t13\n2022/23\tQE Sep 22\t71\t9\n2022/23\tQE Dec 22\t108\t11\n2022/23\tQE Mar 23\t150\t17\n2023/24\tQE Jun 23\t79\t14\n2023/24\tQE Sep 23\t116\t0\n2023/24\tQE Dec 23\t104\t1\n2023/24\tQE Mar 24\t234\t0\n2024/25\tQE Jun 24\t218\t9\n2024/25\tQE Sep 24\t3\t9\n2024/25\tQE Dec 24\t65\t0\n2024/25\tQE Mar 25\t1\t1\n\nSource: Hospital Inpatient System, Hospital Activity Information Branch, Information & Analysis Directorate, Department of Health, NI.","answerHtml":"Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) and Western Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT) are the two provider Trusts of Ophthalmic Services on behalf of the region.
In BHSCT the number of people who are on inpatient waiting lists for (a) cataract surgery is 2789 patients and (b) 615 awaiting an outpatient procedure for Posterior Capsule Opacification treated by Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet laser capsulotomy.
In the WHSCT there are currently 1,064 on the cataract surgical inpatient waiting list and 145 awaiting an outpatient procedure for Posterior Capsule Opacification treated by Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet laser capsulotomy.
The number of cataract surgeries performed in Health and Social Care Trust hospitals in Northern Ireland in each quarter of the last five years, from 2020/21 to 2024/25 are tabled below.
| Year | Quarter | Health and Social Care Trust | ||||
| Belfast | Northern | South Eastern | Southern | Western | ||
| 2020/21 | QE Jun 20 | 250 | 8 | 79 | 0 | 40 |
| 2020/21 | QE Sep 20 | 179 | 212 | 374 | 158 | 225 |
| 2020/21 | QE Dec 20 | 187 | 73 | 521 | 153 | 250 |
| 2020/21 | QE Mar 21 | 184 | 0 | 99 | 155 | 110 |
| 2021/22 | QE Jun 21 | 257 | 266 | 623 | 333 | 267 |
| 2021/22 | QE Sep 21 | 187 | 110 | 538 | 160 | 192 |
| 2021/22 | QE Dec 21 | 150 | 36 | 612 | 286 | 386 |
| 2021/22 | QE Mar 22 | 204 | 263 | 533 | 346 | 420 |
| 2022/23 | QE Jun 22 | 233 | 348 | 711 | 433 | 383 |
| 2022/23 | QE Sep 22 | 284 | 323 | 679 | 403 | 351 |
| 2022/23 | QE Dec 22 | 276 | 413 | 640 | 454 | 227 |
| 2022/23 | QE Mar 23 | 341 | 358 | 474 | 413 | 225 |
| 2023/24 | QE Jun 23 | 274 | 371 | 541 | 381 | 283 |
| 2023/24 | QE Sep 23 | 260 | 337 | 531 | 383 | 254 |
| 2023/24 | QE Dec 23 | 287 | 443 | 527 | 433 | 274 |
| 2023/24 | QE Mar 24 | 407 | 463 | 602 | 467 | 265 |
| 2024/25 | QE Jun 24 | 330 | 446 | 488 | 329 | 378 |
| 2024/25 | QE Sep 24 | 156 | 458 | 487 | 325 | 442 |
| 2024/25 | QE Dec 24 | 241 | 317 | 634 | 342 | 429 |
| 2024/25 | QE Mar 25 | 174 | 382 | 660 | 241 | 364 |
Source: Hospital Inpatient System, Hospital Activity Information Branch, Information & Analysis Directorate, Department of Health, NI.
The number of patients with Posterior Capsule Opacification treated by Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (YAG) Laser Capsulotomy in Health and Social Care Hospitals in Northern Ireland in each quarter from 2020/21 to 2024/25 is tabled below.
| Year | Quarter | Health Trust | |
| Belfast | Western | ||
| 2020/21 | QE Jun 20 | 4 | 4 |
| 2020/21 | QE Sep 20 | 105 | 4 |
| 2020/21 | QE Dec 20 | 120 | 4 |
| 2020/21 | QE Mar 21 | 132 | 2 |
| 2021/22 | QE Jun 21 | 121 | 5 |
| 2021/22 | QE Sep 21 | 126 | 7 |
| 2021/22 | QE Dec 21 | 110 | 6 |
| 2021/22 | QE Mar 22 | 141 | 12 |
| 2022/23 | QE Jun 22 | 96 | 13 |
| 2022/23 | QE Sep 22 | 71 | 9 |
| 2022/23 | QE Dec 22 | 108 | 11 |
| 2022/23 | QE Mar 23 | 150 | 17 |
| 2023/24 | QE Jun 23 | 79 | 14 |
| 2023/24 | QE Sep 23 | 116 | 0 |
| 2023/24 | QE Dec 23 | 104 | 1 |
| 2023/24 | QE Mar 24 | 234 | 0 |
| 2024/25 | QE Jun 24 | 218 | 9 |
| 2024/25 | QE Sep 24 | 3 | 9 |
| 2024/25 | QE Dec 24 | 65 | 0 |
| 2024/25 | QE Mar 25 | 1 | 1 |
Source: Hospital Inpatient System, Hospital Activity Information Branch, Information & Analysis Directorate, Department of Health, NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042791%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476942","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476942"}},{"id":"476941","reference":"AQW 42790/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-03","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 whether there is to any policy for patients assessed through the Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service, on whether they are still required to be on an outpatient waiting list to see an Health and Social Care Trust consultant before being added to the heath service surgery or treatment inpatient waiting list.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service (NI PEARS) was first introduced in March 2018 and was fully commissioned at a regional level from February 2019. The NI Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service (NI PEARS) provides the first point of contact for patients on the Acute Eyecare Pathway, that is, for patients who develop a sudden acute previously undiagnosed eye problem. There is appropriate regional provision across the majority of primary care optometry practices where optometrists are required to offer the patient an appointment within 48 hours of referral. Previous audit of the outcomes of NI PEARS provision evidenced that 80% of NIPEARS presentations are managed by the optometrist in practice without the need for onward referral. This safe and effective service frees capacity in both primary care GP practices and unscheduled ED and eye casualty settings with > 4,000 patients accessing the service each month. System Outcome Measure (SOM) data demonstrates that 99% of patients are appointed and managed within a 48hr window following triage.\n\nIn the scenario where referral to secondary care eye services is indicated following an NI PEARS assessment, the primary care optometrist will complete the referral and send it to the appropriate clinical sub-speciality. On receipt of the referral, HSC Trust clinical ophthalmology teams will triage the referral and determine if an out-patient appointment is necessary; this may be provided by an HSC Trust consultant or other member of the multi-disciplinary eye care team. An out-patient appointment will not always result in a recommendation for surgical intervention but, where this is indicated, a patient will then be placed on an HSC surgical waiting list. In generating a referral, the optometrist has determined that further clinical assessment and/or intervention may be required and the provision of NI PEARS does not supersede the need for the hospital eye service to decide on the next phase of a patient’s clinical care journey. At present, neither community optometrists nor GPs directly list for ophthalmology out-patient, or, in-patient clinical care in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service (NI PEARS) was first introduced in March 2018 and was fully commissioned at a regional level from February 2019. The NI Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service (NI PEARS) provides the first point of contact for patients on the Acute Eyecare Pathway, that is, for patients who develop a sudden acute previously undiagnosed eye problem. There is appropriate regional provision across the majority of primary care optometry practices where optometrists are required to offer the patient an appointment within 48 hours of referral. Previous audit of the outcomes of NI PEARS provision evidenced that 80% of NIPEARS presentations are managed by the optometrist in practice without the need for onward referral. This safe and effective service frees capacity in both primary care GP practices and unscheduled ED and eye casualty settings with > 4,000 patients accessing the service each month. System Outcome Measure (SOM) data demonstrates that 99% of patients are appointed and managed within a 48hr window following triage.
In the scenario where referral to secondary care eye services is indicated following an NI PEARS assessment, the primary care optometrist will complete the referral and send it to the appropriate clinical sub-speciality. On receipt of the referral, HSC Trust clinical ophthalmology teams will triage the referral and determine if an out-patient appointment is necessary; this may be provided by an HSC Trust consultant or other member of the multi-disciplinary eye care team. An out-patient appointment will not always result in a recommendation for surgical intervention but, where this is indicated, a patient will then be placed on an HSC surgical waiting list. In generating a referral, the optometrist has determined that further clinical assessment and/or intervention may be required and the provision of NI PEARS does not supersede the need for the hospital eye service to decide on the next phase of a patient’s clinical care journey. At present, neither community optometrists nor GPs directly list for ophthalmology out-patient, or, in-patient clinical care in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042790%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476941","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476941"}},{"id":"479581","reference":"AQO 3406/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-14","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 Justice Bill (NIA Bill 07/22-27).","answerText":"The 18-month-long Committee Stage of the Justice Bill ended on 27 March 2026.\n\nDrafting of the few remaining additional provisions to be added to the Bill by way of Departmental amendment is ongoing, including in relation to the proposed provisions on non-consensual sexually-explicit deepfake images of adults, on which development of provisions is well under way but which will take some weeks to finalise.\n\nOnce all Departmental amendments are ready, I will seek Executive approval as soon as possible for tabling of the amendments and scheduling of Consideration Stage thereafter, subject to Speaker and Assembly Business Committee considerations.","answerHtml":"The 18-month-long Committee Stage of the Justice Bill ended on 27 March 2026.
Drafting of the few remaining additional provisions to be added to the Bill by way of Departmental amendment is ongoing, including in relation to the proposed provisions on non-consensual sexually-explicit deepfake images of adults, on which development of provisions is well under way but which will take some weeks to finalise.
Once all Departmental amendments are ready, I will seek Executive approval as soon as possible for tabling of the amendments and scheduling of Consideration Stage thereafter, subject to Speaker and Assembly Business Committee considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203406%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=479581","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=479581"}},{"id":"476240","reference":"AQW 42503/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-13","answerBy":"2026-03-19","answered":"2026-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will provide a copy of the minutes from his meeting with the Disability Strategy Co-design Group on 4 December 2025, including (i) the content discussed; (ii) details of those in attendance; and (iii) the meeting location.","answerText":"Due to the need for full consideration of issues associated with UKGDPR it is not appropriate to provide a copy of the minutes from the meeting within the required timeframe. I can confirm (i) the meeting involved a comprehensive discussion on the draft Disability Strategy which I shared with members of the former Co-design Group on Friday 07 November 2025; (ii) Members of the former Disability Strategy Co-design Group attended. A list of the organisations who attended is provided below;\n\nChildren's Law Centre\n\nOmnibus Partnership\n\nMENCAP\n\nDisability Action NI\n\nRNIB NI\n\nRNID NI\n\nIMTAC\n\nEquality Commission NI\n\nNorth-West Forum of People with Disabilities\n\nNorthern Ireland Human Rights Commission\n\nCentre for Independent Living NI\n\nand (iii) the meeting was conducted online.","answerHtml":"Due to the need for full consideration of issues associated with UKGDPR it is not appropriate to provide a copy of the minutes from the meeting within the required timeframe. I can confirm (i) the meeting involved a comprehensive discussion on the draft Disability Strategy which I shared with members of the former Co-design Group on Friday 07 November 2025; (ii) Members of the former Disability Strategy Co-design Group attended. A list of the organisations who attended is provided below;
Children's Law Centre
Omnibus Partnership
MENCAP
Disability Action NI
RNIB NI
RNID NI
IMTAC
Equality Commission NI
North-West Forum of People with Disabilities
Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission
Centre for Independent Living NI
and (iii) the meeting was conducted online.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042503%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476240","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476240"}},{"id":"478018","reference":"AQO 3363/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-12","answerBy":"2026-03-24","answered":"2026-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the practical changes as to how children and young people will access emotional health and wellbeing support as a result of the proposed Children’s and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing Framework.","answerText":"The Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing Framework will deliver clear, practical improvements to how young people access support.\n\nConsultation feedback, including from more than 120 young people, highlighted inconsistent pathways, long waits and support arriving only at crisis point.\n\nA central change is the move towards a needsled, relational and traumainformed model. Young people told us that being listened to and respected mattered as much as being seen quickly. The Framework therefore prioritises personalised, contextaware support delivered by trained staff who can focus on the whole child, including family and community influences.\n\nCrucially, the Framework endorses a significant shift away from single, diagnostically led pathways for conditions such as autism or ADHD pathways that have varied considerably across Trusts. Instead, referrals will move into an inclusive, needsled neurodevelopmental pathway that responds to presenting needs rather than diagnosis as the entry point.\n\nRegionally consistent pathways will make access more predictable and reduce the postcode variation frequently raised during consultation. This will create a more consistent and equitable system across Northern Ireland that will ensure children receive help earlier, without waiting for a diagnostic process to begin.\n\nStrengthening early intervention in settings such as schools, youth services and community organisations means young people can access support sooner and from trusted adults.\n\nThe Framework also promotes enhanced participation, ensuring children and young people are actively involved in decisions about their care. It places a strong emphasis on equity, with specific measures for young carers, neurodivergent children, disabled young people, careexperienced young people and others who face additional barriers.","answerHtml":"The Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing Framework will deliver clear, practical improvements to how young people access support.
Consultation feedback, including from more than 120 young people, highlighted inconsistent pathways, long waits and support arriving only at crisis point.
A central change is the move towards a needsled, relational and traumainformed model. Young people told us that being listened to and respected mattered as much as being seen quickly. The Framework therefore prioritises personalised, contextaware support delivered by trained staff who can focus on the whole child, including family and community influences.
Crucially, the Framework endorses a significant shift away from single, diagnostically led pathways for conditions such as autism or ADHD pathways that have varied considerably across Trusts. Instead, referrals will move into an inclusive, needsled neurodevelopmental pathway that responds to presenting needs rather than diagnosis as the entry point.
Regionally consistent pathways will make access more predictable and reduce the postcode variation frequently raised during consultation. This will create a more consistent and equitable system across Northern Ireland that will ensure children receive help earlier, without waiting for a diagnostic process to begin.
Strengthening early intervention in settings such as schools, youth services and community organisations means young people can access support sooner and from trusted adults.
The Framework also promotes enhanced participation, ensuring children and young people are actively involved in decisions about their care. It places a strong emphasis on equity, with specific measures for young carers, neurodivergent children, disabled young people, careexperienced young people and others who face additional barriers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203363%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=478018","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=478018"}},{"id":"477343","reference":"AQO 3344/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-12","answerBy":"2026-03-23","answered":"2026-03-23","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 provide an update on the future funding for higher education institutions.","answerText":"I am committed to supporting a thriving local Higher Education sector. This is critical for students, a strong and regionally balance economy, as well as civic society.\n\nIn the absence of sufficient funding from the British Government, all Departments are under significant financial pressure. In this difficult context I am focussed on maximising the impact and effectiveness of the resources available.\n\nI am currently considering how best to allocate my budget and am also acutely aware of the impact of passing cuts onto the Higher Education sector. However, there financial challenges right across my Department which spans Invest NI, colleges, tourism, the TV and film industries, and energy.","answerHtml":"I am committed to supporting a thriving local Higher Education sector. This is critical for students, a strong and regionally balance economy, as well as civic society.
In the absence of sufficient funding from the British Government, all Departments are under significant financial pressure. In this difficult context I am focussed on maximising the impact and effectiveness of the resources available.
I am currently considering how best to allocate my budget and am also acutely aware of the impact of passing cuts onto the Higher Education sector. However, there financial challenges right across my Department which spans Invest NI, colleges, tourism, the TV and film industries, and energy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203344%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477343","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477343"}},{"id":"477742","reference":"AQO 3326/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-12","answerBy":"2026-03-23","answered":"2026-03-25","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 work being carried out in relation to the National Association of Head Teachers' trade dispute over workload.","answerText":"Engagement has continued with NAHT officials, and the other recognised teacher unions, via the Teacher Negotiating Committee (TNC) structures. This work has been aimed at addressing excessive teacher and school leader workload.\n\nOn 10 March 2026, the TNC issued a joint communication to teachers and school leaders providing an update on ongoing work and detailing areas where progress can be made to address workload in the short-term.\n\nAs engagement is ongoing to address workload through the agreed collective negotiating machinery of TNC, the Northern Ireland Teaching Council, which represents the five recognised teaching unions, has confirmed that they are not in dispute with management side.\n\nMy officials are continuing to assess the recommendations from the Independent Workload Panel with a view to developing a detailed action by April 2026. This is in line with the communication that I issued to all teachers and school leaders at the start of February.","answerHtml":"Engagement has continued with NAHT officials, and the other recognised teacher unions, via the Teacher Negotiating Committee (TNC) structures. This work has been aimed at addressing excessive teacher and school leader workload.
On 10 March 2026, the TNC issued a joint communication to teachers and school leaders providing an update on ongoing work and detailing areas where progress can be made to address workload in the short-term.
As engagement is ongoing to address workload through the agreed collective negotiating machinery of TNC, the Northern Ireland Teaching Council, which represents the five recognised teaching unions, has confirmed that they are not in dispute with management side.
My officials are continuing to assess the recommendations from the Independent Workload Panel with a view to developing a detailed action by April 2026. This is in line with the communication that I issued to all teachers and school leaders at the start of February.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203326%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477742","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477742"}},{"id":"475229","reference":"AQW 42107/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-09","answerBy":"2026-03-25","answered":"2026-04-13","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 the operating costs for the Regional Gender Identity Service that have not been met, in each of the last five financial years.","answerText":"The Regional Gender Identity Service is delivered in Belfast HSC Trust, for the region. All of the expenditure reported by Belfast HSC Trust in relation to the Gender Identity Service has been within the funding levels provided, for the last four financial years from 2021/22 to 2024/25. The final position for the 2025/26 financial year is not yet available.","answerHtml":"The Regional Gender Identity Service is delivered in Belfast HSC Trust, for the region. All of the expenditure reported by Belfast HSC Trust in relation to the Gender Identity Service has been within the funding levels provided, for the last four financial years from 2021/22 to 2024/25. The final position for the 2025/26 financial year is not yet available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042107%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475229","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475229"}},{"id":"475228","reference":"AQW 42106/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-09","answerBy":"2026-03-25","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 immediate interim support that is being made available for patients of the Regional Gender Identity Service who have been on the waiting list for five years and more.","answerText":"The Regional Gender Identity Service have not implemented any new interim supports for service users waiting longer than 5 years. Support measures from community and voluntary sector providers remain in place.","answerHtml":"The Regional Gender Identity Service have not implemented any new interim supports for service users waiting longer than 5 years. Support measures from community and voluntary sector providers remain in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042106%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475228","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475228"}},{"id":"475227","reference":"AQW 42105/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-09","answerBy":"2026-03-25","answered":"2026-04-17","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 being taken to fully staff the Regional Gender Identity Service at the Brackenburn Clinic, to reduce the length of time patients are having to wait before accessing services.","answerText":"Belfast HSC Trust are actively working on internal processes required to fully staff the Regional Gender identity service. Advertisement of the new service manager post is currently live on HSCNI recruit.\n\nThe delay in progressing recruitment is due to the Trust awaiting the recent publication of Dr Cass’s Assessment of the Northern Ireland Lifespan Service prior to recruitment of posts to ensure that the proposed new service model / staffing structure aligns with recommendations.","answerHtml":"Belfast HSC Trust are actively working on internal processes required to fully staff the Regional Gender identity service. Advertisement of the new service manager post is currently live on HSCNI recruit.
The delay in progressing recruitment is due to the Trust awaiting the recent publication of Dr Cass’s Assessment of the Northern Ireland Lifespan Service prior to recruitment of posts to ensure that the proposed new service model / staffing structure aligns with recommendations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042105%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475227","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475227"}},{"id":"473742","reference":"AQW 41573/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-27","answerBy":"2026-03-04","answered":"2026-03-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans in place to provide his Department's commitment to a neighbourhood-centred model of primary care community audiology service, as set out in the July 2025 Heath and Social Care Reset Plan, in order to reduce the audiology waiting list.","answerText":"My Department recognises the significant pressures on audiology services and the impact that waiting times have on patients and families. The Health and Social Care (HSC) Reset Plan, published in July 2025, identified the development of neighbourhoodcentred primary care models as a key area for service reform, including opportunities to expand communitybased audiology provision.\n\nWork is ongoing within my Department to scope how elements of the neighbourhoodcentred model could be applied within audiology services. This includes examining:\n\nOpportunities to deliver more routine audiology assessments and followup care in community settings, closer to where people live.\n\nPotential for partnership models with primary care and the voluntary/community sector, where clinically appropriate.\n\nNew workforce and skillmix options that could support a shift in service delivery while maintaining clinical governance.\n\nThe role of digital pathways, including remote support for hearing aid users, to reduce pressure on hospitalbased services.\n\nIn parallel, HSC Trusts continue to implement local measures aimed at reducing audiology waiting times, including targeted backlog initiatives and service optimisation work.\n\nMy Department is currently considering the findings of the scoping work referenced above. Any future development of a communitycentred audiology model would be subject to detailed service planning, workforce assessment, financial analysis, and stakeholder engagement.\n\nAt this stage, no final decisions have been taken, but my Department remains focused on actions that can improve access to audiology services and support the wider transformation aims set out in the Reset Plan.\n\nAt present the level of demand for audiology services exceeds the capacity available in the HSC leading to unacceptable waiting times for some patients. A number of factors have contributed to this, including funding pressures and missed opportunities in the past to modernise how health and social care services are delivered.\n\nAs demand, in the form of referrals into Audiology Services in Northern Ireland has increased, the number of audiologists available within HSC has reduced restricting capacity. The reasons for this are complex but officials in my Department have been working closely with stakeholders to identify how rising demand can be met in the short, medium and longer term.\n\nThis engagement has included discussions with HSC Trusts, workforce leads, the British Association of Audiologists, and community and primary care providers. While some of these discussions have not resolved the challenges as yet, they have been constructive and are helping to shape thinking around a more sustainable model of care. A key consideration is maintaining the right balance between hospitalbased audiology services and those that may be safely and effectively delivered in community settings, while also ensuring workforce capacity is protected.\n\nOfficials are currently exploring the development of a pilot proposal for an alternative communitybased audiology model to complement existing HSC services. This pilot would allow a small group of patients to be seen in a new way in the short term, with the intention of gathering evidence to inform a longerterm solution. Further work on this model of care will be taken forward later this month to fully scope the opportunities available. Should the pilot commence and be positively evaluated, any further roll-out of such an initiative will need underpinned by an extensive tendering exercise and additional funding.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the significant pressures on audiology services and the impact that waiting times have on patients and families. The Health and Social Care (HSC) Reset Plan, published in July 2025, identified the development of neighbourhoodcentred primary care models as a key area for service reform, including opportunities to expand communitybased audiology provision.
Work is ongoing within my Department to scope how elements of the neighbourhoodcentred model could be applied within audiology services. This includes examining:
Opportunities to deliver more routine audiology assessments and followup care in community settings, closer to where people live.
Potential for partnership models with primary care and the voluntary/community sector, where clinically appropriate.
New workforce and skillmix options that could support a shift in service delivery while maintaining clinical governance.
The role of digital pathways, including remote support for hearing aid users, to reduce pressure on hospitalbased services.
In parallel, HSC Trusts continue to implement local measures aimed at reducing audiology waiting times, including targeted backlog initiatives and service optimisation work.
My Department is currently considering the findings of the scoping work referenced above. Any future development of a communitycentred audiology model would be subject to detailed service planning, workforce assessment, financial analysis, and stakeholder engagement.
At this stage, no final decisions have been taken, but my Department remains focused on actions that can improve access to audiology services and support the wider transformation aims set out in the Reset Plan.
At present the level of demand for audiology services exceeds the capacity available in the HSC leading to unacceptable waiting times for some patients. A number of factors have contributed to this, including funding pressures and missed opportunities in the past to modernise how health and social care services are delivered.
As demand, in the form of referrals into Audiology Services in Northern Ireland has increased, the number of audiologists available within HSC has reduced restricting capacity. The reasons for this are complex but officials in my Department have been working closely with stakeholders to identify how rising demand can be met in the short, medium and longer term.
This engagement has included discussions with HSC Trusts, workforce leads, the British Association of Audiologists, and community and primary care providers. While some of these discussions have not resolved the challenges as yet, they have been constructive and are helping to shape thinking around a more sustainable model of care. A key consideration is maintaining the right balance between hospitalbased audiology services and those that may be safely and effectively delivered in community settings, while also ensuring workforce capacity is protected.
Officials are currently exploring the development of a pilot proposal for an alternative communitybased audiology model to complement existing HSC services. This pilot would allow a small group of patients to be seen in a new way in the short term, with the intention of gathering evidence to inform a longerterm solution. Further work on this model of care will be taken forward later this month to fully scope the opportunities available. Should the pilot commence and be positively evaluated, any further roll-out of such an initiative will need underpinned by an extensive tendering exercise and additional funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041573%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473742","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473742"}},{"id":"473741","reference":"AQW 41572/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-27","answerBy":"2026-03-16","answered":"2026-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail a timeline of when he will take forward the ten recommendations made by the Public Accounts Committee's Report on Homelessness in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"In accordance with established procedure, a Memorandum of Reply to the Public Accounts Committee’s report will be presented to the Assembly by 24 April 2026.","answerHtml":"In accordance with established procedure, a Memorandum of Reply to the Public Accounts Committee’s report will be presented to the Assembly by 24 April 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041572%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473741","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473741"}},{"id":"473740","reference":"AQW 41571/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-27","answerBy":"2026-03-16","answered":"2026-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will provide (i) a copy of the periodic surveys carried out on registered housing associations, as outlined in his response to the Tackling Disrepair, Damp and Mould private members motion on 24 February 2026, when he said his Department, as the regulator, has undertaken periodic surveys to ensure that registered housing associations appropriately manage all cases of damp and mould in their stock and have policies and procedures in place to address damp and mould; and (ii) copies of any periodic surveys carried out on Housing Executive properties, in the past five years.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer part (i), the information requested has been placed in the Assembly Library.\n\nIn relation to part (ii), the NI Housing Executive has not undertaken any periodic damp and mould surveys of its properties in the past five years.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer part (i), the information requested has been placed in the Assembly Library.
In relation to part (ii), the NI Housing Executive has not undertaken any periodic damp and mould surveys of its properties in the past five years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041571%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473740","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473740"}},{"id":"473739","reference":"AQW 41570/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-27","answerBy":"2026-03-16","answered":"2026-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will provide a copy of any evidence collected from environmental health inspections carried out in the eleven local council areas, that was considered by his Department in advance of the Decent Homes Standard consultation, which confirms the prevalence of damp and mould in tenancies.","answerText":"My Department did not collect evidence from environmental health inspectors. Officials considered data obtained through the Northern Ireland Housing Condition Survey, which is a comprehensive assessment of the condition of all properties, not solely those which have been referred for inspection.","answerHtml":"My Department did not collect evidence from environmental health inspectors. Officials considered data obtained through the Northern Ireland Housing Condition Survey, which is a comprehensive assessment of the condition of all properties, not solely those which have been referred for inspection.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041570%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473739","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473739"}},{"id":"473738","reference":"AQW 41569/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-27","answerBy":"2026-03-16","answered":"2026-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following his engagement with the Welcome Organisation and their frontline delivery of services for homeless people, to detail any plans in place to (i) update the Housing (NI) Order 1988; and (ii) add to his expected Housing Miscellaneous Bill, a statutory duty to prevent homelessness.","answerText":"My recent experience of how the Welcome Organisation deliver front line services was extremely insightful.\n\nThe Public Accounts Committee report on Homelessness, published on 26 February, recommends that my Department should work with the Housing Executive to explore options for strengthening homelessness prevention.I welcome the Committee’s Report. As per protocol I will respond to its Recommendations formally through the Assembly process.","answerHtml":"My recent experience of how the Welcome Organisation deliver front line services was extremely insightful.
The Public Accounts Committee report on Homelessness, published on 26 February, recommends that my Department should work with the Housing Executive to explore options for strengthening homelessness prevention.I welcome the Committee’s Report. As per protocol I will respond to its Recommendations formally through the Assembly process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041569%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473738","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473738"}},{"id":"471567","reference":"AQW 40684/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-16","answerBy":"2026-03-03","answered":"2026-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the average price of car insurance for drivers aged 70 and over in Northern Ireland; and (ii) any work she is undertaking with insurance companies to address unfair financial consequences for older drivers,","answerText":"(i) Motor insurance pricing is not a devolved matter. The setting of premiums is a commercial decision for individual insurers and as such my Department does not hold the requested information. The industry body, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) does not publish average motor insurance premium data broken down by age and by UK nation or region, so specific figures for drivers aged 70 and over in the North are not available.\n\n(ii) My Department has no legislative influence over motor insurance pricing, which is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Motor insurance pricing and underwriting decisions are entirely matters for individual insurers, based on their own risk assessments and commercial judgement. As such, my Department cannot intervene in insurers’ commercial decisions.\n\nThe British Government published the Motor Insurance Taskforce Final Report in December 2025. It sets out coordinated actions to help reduce costs for all motorists. In line with Action Point 4.4 of the report, my officials have commenced exploratory discussions with key stakeholders involved in the administration and running of the Continuous Insurance Enforcement (CIE) scheme in Britain to explore the potential benefits to all drivers and feasibility of introducing a CIE scheme here.\n\nMy Department continues to monitor issues affecting motorists and engages with relevant stakeholders, where appropriate, to understand emerging concerns.","answerHtml":"(i) Motor insurance pricing is not a devolved matter. The setting of premiums is a commercial decision for individual insurers and as such my Department does not hold the requested information. The industry body, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) does not publish average motor insurance premium data broken down by age and by UK nation or region, so specific figures for drivers aged 70 and over in the North are not available.
(ii) My Department has no legislative influence over motor insurance pricing, which is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Motor insurance pricing and underwriting decisions are entirely matters for individual insurers, based on their own risk assessments and commercial judgement. As such, my Department cannot intervene in insurers’ commercial decisions.
The British Government published the Motor Insurance Taskforce Final Report in December 2025. It sets out coordinated actions to help reduce costs for all motorists. In line with Action Point 4.4 of the report, my officials have commenced exploratory discussions with key stakeholders involved in the administration and running of the Continuous Insurance Enforcement (CIE) scheme in Britain to explore the potential benefits to all drivers and feasibility of introducing a CIE scheme here.
My Department continues to monitor issues affecting motorists and engages with relevant stakeholders, where appropriate, to understand emerging concerns.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040684%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471567","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471567"}},{"id":"471566","reference":"AQW 40683/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-16","answerBy":"2026-03-03","answered":"2026-02-20","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 detail (i) the average price of car insurance for drivers aged 70 and over in Northern Ireland; and (ii) any work she is undertaking with insurance companies to address unfair financial consequences for older drivers,","answerText":"The regulation of Financial Services including insurance services is a reserved matter. Complainants who contact my Department’s Trading Standards Service Consumerline about car insurance are advised to contact their insurer directly to try to resolve the issue. If they are dissatisfied with the response, then they should escalate the complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). The FOS is a free, independent service that resolves disputes between consumers and financial services firms.","answerHtml":"The regulation of Financial Services including insurance services is a reserved matter. Complainants who contact my Department’s Trading Standards Service Consumerline about car insurance are advised to contact their insurer directly to try to resolve the issue. If they are dissatisfied with the response, then they should escalate the complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). The FOS is a free, independent service that resolves disputes between consumers and financial services firms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040683%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471566","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471566"}},{"id":"470067","reference":"AQW 40022/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-06","answerBy":"2026-02-23","answered":"2026-02-11","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 detail any discussions she has had with Royal Mail about late and missing post deliveries, given the impact on businesses, government services and the wider public.","answerText":"Postal services are a reserved matter, with Ofcom responsible for regulating the postal industry in the north of Ireland. Under Ofcom’s regulatory framework, postal operators - including Royal Mail - are required to have a clear and accessible complaints procedure for consumers.","answerHtml":"Postal services are a reserved matter, with Ofcom responsible for regulating the postal industry in the north of Ireland. Under Ofcom’s regulatory framework, postal operators - including Royal Mail - are required to have a clear and accessible complaints procedure for consumers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040022%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470067","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470067"}},{"id":"470066","reference":"AQW 40021/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-06","answerBy":"2026-02-23","answered":"2026-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail when the consultation will be launched to seek views on the priorities for PC28 for NI Water.","answerText":"Under Article 7 of the Water and Sewerage Services (NI) Order, my Department may issue guidance to the Utility Regulator on social and environmental policies in relation to water and sewerage. The Utility Regulator shall have regard to this guidance when regulating NI Water.\n\nDraft guidance on my social and environmental policies for PC28 is currently being prepared and it is hoped that the consultation will be launched by summer 2026.","answerHtml":"Under Article 7 of the Water and Sewerage Services (NI) Order, my Department may issue guidance to the Utility Regulator on social and environmental policies in relation to water and sewerage. The Utility Regulator shall have regard to this guidance when regulating NI Water.
Draft guidance on my social and environmental policies for PC28 is currently being prepared and it is hoped that the consultation will be launched by summer 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040021%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470066","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470066"}},{"id":"470065","reference":"AQW 40020/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-06","answerBy":"2026-02-23","answered":"2026-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether an upgrade to the South Street Wastewater Pumping Station, Newtownards, will be included for investment under PC28.","answerText":"The issue you have raised is an operational matter for NI Water; however, I have sought the required information.\n\nNI Water has confirmed that there are no plans to include an upgrade to the South Street Wastewater Pumping Station (WwPS) in its PC28 business plan. NI Water had developed a solution under the Ballyrickard Drainage Area Plan, however this has been considered unfeasible and does not represent value for money, primarily due to the scale of storage required as part of the solution (c. 17,000 m³) and its estimated construction cost of c. £50m.\n\nNI Water has advised however that, during the PC28 period (2028–2033), it will carry out further investigations and hydraulic/environmental modelling to develop a more efficient and deliverable solution. Any revised approach will be dependent upon reaching agreement with NIEA on a reduced storage requirement and the availability of sufficient CDEL funding, before assessment through the Price Control business planning process.","answerHtml":"The issue you have raised is an operational matter for NI Water; however, I have sought the required information.
NI Water has confirmed that there are no plans to include an upgrade to the South Street Wastewater Pumping Station (WwPS) in its PC28 business plan. NI Water had developed a solution under the Ballyrickard Drainage Area Plan, however this has been considered unfeasible and does not represent value for money, primarily due to the scale of storage required as part of the solution (c. 17,000 m³) and its estimated construction cost of c. £50m.
NI Water has advised however that, during the PC28 period (2028–2033), it will carry out further investigations and hydraulic/environmental modelling to develop a more efficient and deliverable solution. Any revised approach will be dependent upon reaching agreement with NIEA on a reduced storage requirement and the availability of sufficient CDEL funding, before assessment through the Price Control business planning process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040020%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470065","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470065"}},{"id":"470064","reference":"AQW 40019/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-06","answerBy":"2026-02-23","answered":"2026-08-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any protections in place for students renting in the private rented sector.","answerText":"Private rented legislation does not distinguish on the basis of the characteristics of those living in a property, including whether or not a student resides there.","answerHtml":"Private rented legislation does not distinguish on the basis of the characteristics of those living in a property, including whether or not a student resides there.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040019%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470064","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470064"}},{"id":"471746","reference":"AQO 3133/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-05","answerBy":"2026-02-17","answered":"2026-02-17","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 People and Place – A Strategy for Neighbourhood Renewal.","answerText":"I have witnessed first-hand the impressive work delivered by our partners in the community sector as part of the Neighbourhood Renewal Programme. This year I have invested over £20 million pounds in my Neighbourhood Renewal programme which makes a real impact on the lives of those in the most deprived communities.\n\nThrough this investment, over 2,500 local community groups were supported, more than 5,500 adults volunteered in their communities, over 1,500 people were helped to secure employment through targeted training and employability interventions, and community groups were able to secure over £40 million in additional external funding.\n\nOf course, I want to see my Neighbourhood Renewal programme doing even more for disadvantaged communities. The Review of the ‘Neighbourhood Renewal People and Place Strategy: has now concluded and I am considering how to take it forward.\n\nSubject to my Executive colleagues’ approval, a public consultation on the Strategic Framework will take place in due course.\n\nIt is not anticipated that any changes to the existing Neighbourhood Renewal programme will take place during the 2026/27 financial year.","answerHtml":"I have witnessed first-hand the impressive work delivered by our partners in the community sector as part of the Neighbourhood Renewal Programme. This year I have invested over £20 million pounds in my Neighbourhood Renewal programme which makes a real impact on the lives of those in the most deprived communities.
Through this investment, over 2,500 local community groups were supported, more than 5,500 adults volunteered in their communities, over 1,500 people were helped to secure employment through targeted training and employability interventions, and community groups were able to secure over £40 million in additional external funding.
Of course, I want to see my Neighbourhood Renewal programme doing even more for disadvantaged communities. The Review of the ‘Neighbourhood Renewal People and Place Strategy: has now concluded and I am considering how to take it forward.
Subject to my Executive colleagues’ approval, a public consultation on the Strategic Framework will take place in due course.
It is not anticipated that any changes to the existing Neighbourhood Renewal programme will take place during the 2026/27 financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203133%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471746","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471746"}},{"id":"477329","reference":"AQO 3120/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-05","answerBy":"2026-02-16","answered":"2026-03-23","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 the Third Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme.","answerText":"It is vital that we work collaboratively in the face of the impacts of climate change and the challenges we face such as more frequent and severe storms leading to increased risk of flooding, loss of energy supply and coastal erosion along with other risks such as longer lasting wildfires which are all impacting upon our communities, businesses and natural environment.\n\nMy Department has been leading on the development of the Third Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme, or NICCAP3 for short, on behalf of all departments to ensure that we collectively meet our legal responsibility under the Climate Change Act 2008.\n\nThe NICCAP3 sets out details of policies and proposals in response to the latest UK Climate Change Risk Assessment with the ultimate aim of improving our resilience to the impacts of climate change that impacts all of us here in Northern Ireland. In developing the draft Programme my Department, as well as working with all other departments, has also undertaken a co-design approach with a range of key stakeholders.\n\nThe public consultation my Department undertook last year showed overwhelming support for the draft Adaptation Programme, and my Department published the summary analysis of responses last October. The constructive feedback received through that consultation has been used to make refinements to the draft NICCAP3 including incorporating additional actions that were proposed by a range of stakeholders.\n\nUnlike other regions of the UK the draft NICCAP3, in addition to the 150+ actions from departments, also contains over 120 actions from a range of key stakeholders including Local Government, environmental Non-Government Organisations, our universities, Agencies and front-line delivery organisations in recognition of the important role they play in adapting to and creating resilience to the impacts of climate change. This ‘whole society approach’ my department has taken has been welcomed by the UK Climate Change Committee.\n\nI am currently engaging with my Executive colleagues to seek their agreement to the NICCAP3 being finalised and laid in this Assembly. It is imperative that Northern Ireland has an adaptation programme in place.","answerHtml":"It is vital that we work collaboratively in the face of the impacts of climate change and the challenges we face such as more frequent and severe storms leading to increased risk of flooding, loss of energy supply and coastal erosion along with other risks such as longer lasting wildfires which are all impacting upon our communities, businesses and natural environment.
My Department has been leading on the development of the Third Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme, or NICCAP3 for short, on behalf of all departments to ensure that we collectively meet our legal responsibility under the Climate Change Act 2008.
The NICCAP3 sets out details of policies and proposals in response to the latest UK Climate Change Risk Assessment with the ultimate aim of improving our resilience to the impacts of climate change that impacts all of us here in Northern Ireland. In developing the draft Programme my Department, as well as working with all other departments, has also undertaken a co-design approach with a range of key stakeholders.
The public consultation my Department undertook last year showed overwhelming support for the draft Adaptation Programme, and my Department published the summary analysis of responses last October. The constructive feedback received through that consultation has been used to make refinements to the draft NICCAP3 including incorporating additional actions that were proposed by a range of stakeholders.
Unlike other regions of the UK the draft NICCAP3, in addition to the 150+ actions from departments, also contains over 120 actions from a range of key stakeholders including Local Government, environmental Non-Government Organisations, our universities, Agencies and front-line delivery organisations in recognition of the important role they play in adapting to and creating resilience to the impacts of climate change. This ‘whole society approach’ my department has taken has been welcomed by the UK Climate Change Committee.
I am currently engaging with my Executive colleagues to seek their agreement to the NICCAP3 being finalised and laid in this Assembly. It is imperative that Northern Ireland has an adaptation programme in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203120%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477329","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477329"}},{"id":"468858","reference":"AQW 39478/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-30","answerBy":"2026-02-16","answered":"2026-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail when the Ministerial Panel Housing Thematic Sub-group last met.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing for All Ministerial Panel – Housing Thematic SubGroup last convened on Wednesday 4 September 2025 in the Board Room of the Housing Centre, 2 Adelaide Street, Belfast.\n\nIn line with the Group’s Terms of Reference, which provide for biannual meetings, the next meeting is scheduled to take place at the same venue on Wednesday 4 March 2026.\n\nThe Terms of Reference also permit additional meetings to be convened on an ad hoc basis, should any member of the SubGroup request that such a meeting be arranged.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing for All Ministerial Panel – Housing Thematic SubGroup last convened on Wednesday 4 September 2025 in the Board Room of the Housing Centre, 2 Adelaide Street, Belfast.
In line with the Group’s Terms of Reference, which provide for biannual meetings, the next meeting is scheduled to take place at the same venue on Wednesday 4 March 2026.
The Terms of Reference also permit additional meetings to be convened on an ad hoc basis, should any member of the SubGroup request that such a meeting be arranged.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039478%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468858"}},{"id":"468199","reference":"AQW 39181/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-27","answerBy":"2026-02-11","answered":"2026-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any actions she is taking to ensure NI Water is given clear direction to prioritise investment into closed catchment areas, where no new connections are currently permitted during PC21, as outlined in NI Water's wastewater system capacity information.","answerText":"The prioritisation of investment in water and wastewater infrastructure is a matter for NI Water, however I can advise that the company prioritises its investments by focusing on the operational requirement to operate, maintain and enhance water and wastewater services to address the most urgent risks to public health, environmental compliance, and economic growth, within the approved budget allocation.\n\nSpecific capital investment needs are defined are part of the Utility Regulator’s Price Control. The Price Control is a structured regulatory process that identifies what investment is needed, what it will deliver, and what level of expenditure is considered efficient. The Regulator ultimately decides which capital outputs NI Water is funded to deliver, based on statutory obligations, customer priorities, and affordability.\n\nIn terms of addressing the issues with connecting to the wastewater network, since October 2024 my department has allocated over £30m of capital funding for wastewater infrastructure, which has unlocked wastewater capacity for over 5,300 homes across the North. This is above the 4,500 which NI Water had initially stated they could connect if fully funded in PC21, and it is only 2026.","answerHtml":"The prioritisation of investment in water and wastewater infrastructure is a matter for NI Water, however I can advise that the company prioritises its investments by focusing on the operational requirement to operate, maintain and enhance water and wastewater services to address the most urgent risks to public health, environmental compliance, and economic growth, within the approved budget allocation.
Specific capital investment needs are defined are part of the Utility Regulator’s Price Control. The Price Control is a structured regulatory process that identifies what investment is needed, what it will deliver, and what level of expenditure is considered efficient. The Regulator ultimately decides which capital outputs NI Water is funded to deliver, based on statutory obligations, customer priorities, and affordability.
In terms of addressing the issues with connecting to the wastewater network, since October 2024 my department has allocated over £30m of capital funding for wastewater infrastructure, which has unlocked wastewater capacity for over 5,300 homes across the North. This is above the 4,500 which NI Water had initially stated they could connect if fully funded in PC21, and it is only 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039181%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468199","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468199"}},{"id":"468198","reference":"AQW 39180/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-27","answerBy":"2026-02-11","answered":"2026-02-12","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 detail any support available for local councils to (i) develop night-time economy provision; and (ii) support the retention of small to medium-sized businesses that serve the night-time economy, including the food-to-go sector, to stop the loss of these businesses from town centres, due to the inability to revitalise derelict commercial premises or expand existing premises, due to the lack of wastewater and sewage connections.","answerText":"The Minister for Infrastructure is responsible for wastewater.\n\nMy Department, alongside Tourism NI and the three Belfast Business Improvement Districts, has commissioned research to better understand the issues affecting the night-time economy. While the final report is anticipated soon, the interim findings suggest reliable late-night transport, safety, tourism and licensing are key factors affecting the success of our night-time economy.\n\nI was pleased to work with Minister Kimmins, Executive colleagues and Belfast City Council to secure funding for a late-night public transport pilot scheme in Belfast. Initial feedback on uptake is positive and my hope is that this pilot will lead to advancements in late-night transport provision across our region, thereby supporting our night-time economy across our local council areas.\n\nMy Department and partner organisations continue to provide a broad range of supports to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets.","answerHtml":"The Minister for Infrastructure is responsible for wastewater.
My Department, alongside Tourism NI and the three Belfast Business Improvement Districts, has commissioned research to better understand the issues affecting the night-time economy. While the final report is anticipated soon, the interim findings suggest reliable late-night transport, safety, tourism and licensing are key factors affecting the success of our night-time economy.
I was pleased to work with Minister Kimmins, Executive colleagues and Belfast City Council to secure funding for a late-night public transport pilot scheme in Belfast. Initial feedback on uptake is positive and my hope is that this pilot will lead to advancements in late-night transport provision across our region, thereby supporting our night-time economy across our local council areas.
My Department and partner organisations continue to provide a broad range of supports to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039180%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468198","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468198"}},{"id":"468197","reference":"AQW 39179/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-27","answerBy":"2026-02-11","answered":"2026-02-09","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 detail any Invest NI support available for small to medium-sized enterprises, located in town centres, which are unable to extend premises or move into more suitable town centre premises, due to the lack of wastewater and sewage connections.","answerText":"Invest NI provides a broad range of support to small and medium sized businesses across the North primarily in the form of advice, guidance, innovation grants and access to finance.\n\nIt provides a range of finance solutions under the banner of ‘Access to Finance’. These funds include both debt and equity support to ensure that all businesses, regardless of their size, can access the funding they need to scale to the next level.\n\nTo ensure businesses can access the support they need to innovate Invest NI also provides support through its Innovation Voucher and Business Innovation Grant schemes. These initiatives provide grants to help local small and medium sized businesses develop and bring to market new products and services, or improve existing processes, all with the aim of increasing profits and driving growth.\n\nThe provision of wastewater and sewage connections does not fall within the remit of Invest NI.\n\nDetails on all of the support above can be found on the Invest NI website. If the Member would like to discuss further she should contact Invest NI’s Head of Southern Regional Business, Alistair Quinn, and if any business would like to discuss the support available to them, they should contact Invest NI’s Business Support Team on 0800 181 4422.","answerHtml":"Invest NI provides a broad range of support to small and medium sized businesses across the North primarily in the form of advice, guidance, innovation grants and access to finance.
It provides a range of finance solutions under the banner of ‘Access to Finance’. These funds include both debt and equity support to ensure that all businesses, regardless of their size, can access the funding they need to scale to the next level.
To ensure businesses can access the support they need to innovate Invest NI also provides support through its Innovation Voucher and Business Innovation Grant schemes. These initiatives provide grants to help local small and medium sized businesses develop and bring to market new products and services, or improve existing processes, all with the aim of increasing profits and driving growth.
The provision of wastewater and sewage connections does not fall within the remit of Invest NI.
Details on all of the support above can be found on the Invest NI website. If the Member would like to discuss further she should contact Invest NI’s Head of Southern Regional Business, Alistair Quinn, and if any business would like to discuss the support available to them, they should contact Invest NI’s Business Support Team on 0800 181 4422.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039179%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468197","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468197"}},{"id":"467969","reference":"AQW 39055/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-26","answerBy":"2026-02-10","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) a breakdown of the funding for Severe Weather Emergency Protocol; and (ii) the amount of the funding that is spent by the Housing Executive, on their operational costs.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“Funding for the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is managed within the Strategic Prevention annual budget that forms part of the Homeless programme. The expenditure for the last five financial years is detailed in the table below:\n\n2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\t2024/25\nSWEP Spend\t-\t£5,190\t£35,873\t£9,837\t£51,523\n\nWhen implementing SWEP, the Housing Executive will utilise a range of options that seek to provide additional emergency capacity. These options include engaging with a range of partners seeking additional emergency units that are delivered at no cost to existing contractual arrangements and other options which require additional payments. The table above details those additional payments. There are no additional operational costs to the Housing Executive for SWEP as all staff requirements are considered part of business as usual.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“Funding for the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is managed within the Strategic Prevention annual budget that forms part of the Homeless programme. The expenditure for the last five financial years is detailed in the table below:
| 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 | |
| SWEP Spend | - | £5,190 | £35,873 | £9,837 | £51,523 |
When implementing SWEP, the Housing Executive will utilise a range of options that seek to provide additional emergency capacity. These options include engaging with a range of partners seeking additional emergency units that are delivered at no cost to existing contractual arrangements and other options which require additional payments. The table above details those additional payments. There are no additional operational costs to the Housing Executive for SWEP as all staff requirements are considered part of business as usual.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039055%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467969","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467969"}},{"id":"467056","reference":"AQW 38619/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-20","answerBy":"2026-02-04","answered":"2026-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether it is NI Water's policy to refuse all planning applications across the Strangford constituency, in order to negotiate a better budget, during the multi-year budget period.","answerText":"The issue you have raised is an operational matter for NI Water; however, I have sought the required information.\n\nNI Water has advised my department that it is a statutory consultee to the Local Planning Authorities and, as such, provides guidance to planners as part of the planning process. Ultimately, the decision to approve, refuse, or condition planning applications rests solely with the relevant planning authority, not with NI Water.","answerHtml":"The issue you have raised is an operational matter for NI Water; however, I have sought the required information.
NI Water has advised my department that it is a statutory consultee to the Local Planning Authorities and, as such, provides guidance to planners as part of the planning process. Ultimately, the decision to approve, refuse, or condition planning applications rests solely with the relevant planning authority, not with NI Water.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038619%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467056","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467056"}},{"id":"467055","reference":"AQW 38618/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-20","answerBy":"2026-02-04","answered":"2026-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQO 2939/22-27, whether she has completed any (i) risk assessment; and (ii) rural needs assessment, of her active travel programme, to encourage children to cycle to schools in rural communities.","answerText":"Since the introduction of the Climate Change Act, the main focus of my department with respect to encouraging more people to walk, wheel or cycle has concentrated on developing the Active Travel Delivery Plan and enhancing my department’s design guidance for the delivery of active travel schemes.\n\nA rural needs impact assessment was carried out on the draft Active Travel Delivery Plan. The prioritisation of high-quality active travel infrastructure in rural areas requires a different approach to that applied in an urban context. Once work on the Active Trave Delivery Plan is complete, officials will consider how best to prioritise active travel investment to maximise benefits in rural areas.\n\nAs outlined in my answer to AQO 2939/22-27, my department is also currently developing a toolkit of measures that can be implemented around schools to encourage walking, wheeling or cycling for the school run. Some of the measures designers might consider include reduction in speed limits, greater pedestrian priority in the vicinity of schools, or measures to discourage inconsiderate parking that can cause difficulties for those walking, wheeling or cycling. Risk assessments are carried out as part of the design process for any individual project of this nature brought forward.","answerHtml":"Since the introduction of the Climate Change Act, the main focus of my department with respect to encouraging more people to walk, wheel or cycle has concentrated on developing the Active Travel Delivery Plan and enhancing my department’s design guidance for the delivery of active travel schemes.
A rural needs impact assessment was carried out on the draft Active Travel Delivery Plan. The prioritisation of high-quality active travel infrastructure in rural areas requires a different approach to that applied in an urban context. Once work on the Active Trave Delivery Plan is complete, officials will consider how best to prioritise active travel investment to maximise benefits in rural areas.
As outlined in my answer to AQO 2939/22-27, my department is also currently developing a toolkit of measures that can be implemented around schools to encourage walking, wheeling or cycling for the school run. Some of the measures designers might consider include reduction in speed limits, greater pedestrian priority in the vicinity of schools, or measures to discourage inconsiderate parking that can cause difficulties for those walking, wheeling or cycling. Risk assessments are carried out as part of the design process for any individual project of this nature brought forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038618%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467055","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467055"}},{"id":"467054","reference":"AQW 38617/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-20","answerBy":"2026-02-04","answered":"2026-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any work her Department is undertaking with Translink, Belfast City Council and the organisers of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, to (i) provide safe public transport to and from Belfast city centre,; and (ii) reduce or remove cars from travelling through this event.","answerText":"Translink is working closely with Belfast City Council and the organisers of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to develop a comprehensive and safe transport plan for the event. This includes both bus and rail provision.\n\nTranslink’s initial assessment indicates that additional park-and-ride capacity on key approaches to the city may be required, alongside enhanced public transport services, including lateevening operations, to support safe travel to and from the city centre.\n\nA detailed transport plan will be published once there is greater clarity around the event programme, locations, timings and projected attendance. This will ensure that the appropriate measures are in place both to provide safe, reliable public transport and to minimise car travel through the event.","answerHtml":"Translink is working closely with Belfast City Council and the organisers of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to develop a comprehensive and safe transport plan for the event. This includes both bus and rail provision.
Translink’s initial assessment indicates that additional park-and-ride capacity on key approaches to the city may be required, alongside enhanced public transport services, including lateevening operations, to support safe travel to and from the city centre.
A detailed transport plan will be published once there is greater clarity around the event programme, locations, timings and projected attendance. This will ensure that the appropriate measures are in place both to provide safe, reliable public transport and to minimise car travel through the event.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038617%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467054","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467054"}},{"id":"467053","reference":"AQW 38616/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-20","answerBy":"2026-02-04","answered":"2026-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQO 2942/22-27, to detail the reason why the interim Regional Planning Commission's report has still not been published.","answerText":"My officials and I are currently considering the Commission’s report. This process takes time to ensure a thorough understanding of the issues and recommendations. I will publish the report once my review is complete.","answerHtml":"My officials and I are currently considering the Commission’s report. This process takes time to ensure a thorough understanding of the issues and recommendations. I will publish the report once my review is complete.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038616%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467053","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467053"}},{"id":"467052","reference":"AQW 38615/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-20","answerBy":"2026-02-04","answered":"2026-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any policy she used to determine whether households can or cannot afford to contribute towards infrastructure needs, such as wastewater and sewage.","answerText":"The current NI Executive policy is to provide a subsidy to NI Water in lieu of domestic water charging.\n\nI will not add to the financial burden faced by people in the North by introducing domestic water charging to hard pressed workers and families in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis.","answerHtml":"The current NI Executive policy is to provide a subsidy to NI Water in lieu of domestic water charging.
I will not add to the financial burden faced by people in the North by introducing domestic water charging to hard pressed workers and families in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038615%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467052","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467052"}},{"id":"495309","reference":"AQO 2999/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-15","answerBy":"2026-01-27","answered":"2026-07-20","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 she has had any engagement with the Minister for Communities and the Minister for Infrastructure in relation to support for businesses that cannot avail of premises due to lack of wastewater capacity, making the redevelopment of derelict properties inaccessible.","answerText":"The Executive’s Programme for Government recognises that historic underfunding of our water and wastewater infrastructure has been a persistent challenge for economic development in the north.\n\nWater infrastructure is a critical enabler for industrial development, both through indigenous business growth and Foreign Direct Investment, and that is why Invest NI maintains a strong working relationship with NI Water to understand network constraints and the potential for co-ordinated strategic investment and partnership aligned with its Regional Property Programme. That 10-year Programme represents a new approach to the provision of Industrial land and property that will act as a key enabler to achieving a more regionally balanced economy and will bring forward proposals that aim to refurbish and repurpose existing industrial building stock\n\nI met recently with the Minister for Infrastructure and NI Water officials to receive a briefing on a pathfinder project in Newry, where investment by a business in on-site wastewater treatment technology is reducing pollution and freeing up capacity for development in that area. I am open to exploring how we can incentivise larger businesses to make similar investments, recognising the very significant budgetary constraints we face.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Programme for Government recognises that historic underfunding of our water and wastewater infrastructure has been a persistent challenge for economic development in the north.
Water infrastructure is a critical enabler for industrial development, both through indigenous business growth and Foreign Direct Investment, and that is why Invest NI maintains a strong working relationship with NI Water to understand network constraints and the potential for co-ordinated strategic investment and partnership aligned with its Regional Property Programme. That 10-year Programme represents a new approach to the provision of Industrial land and property that will act as a key enabler to achieving a more regionally balanced economy and will bring forward proposals that aim to refurbish and repurpose existing industrial building stock
I met recently with the Minister for Infrastructure and NI Water officials to receive a briefing on a pathfinder project in Newry, where investment by a business in on-site wastewater treatment technology is reducing pollution and freeing up capacity for development in that area. I am open to exploring how we can incentivise larger businesses to make similar investments, recognising the very significant budgetary constraints we face.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202999%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=495309","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=495309"}},{"id":"466272","reference":"AQW 38211/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-14","answerBy":"2026-01-29","answered":"2026-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of complaints submitted through the official complaints system to the Housing Executive, in each of the last five years, broken down by local council area.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 38211/17-22, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 38211/17-22, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038211%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466272","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466272"}},{"id":"466271","reference":"AQW 38210/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-14","answerBy":"2026-01-29","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any actions his Department has taken to ensure all existing social housing stock is transitioned from home heating oil, before the end of the 2022- 27 Assembly mandate.","answerText":"My Department is currently consulting on proposals for a revised Decent Homes Standard, which is the standard that all social housing is required to meet. The consultation includes proposals to support the transition towards low carbon heating. I aim to publish the revised Decent Homes Standard later in 2026, but a period of transition will be required for social housing providers which will extend beyond the mandate.\n\nIn relation to the Housing Executive, I have sought the requested information from the NIHE Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“It will not be possible to transition the Housing Executive’s remaining oil heating systems to gas or no/low carbon alternatives by this date. The Housing Executive currently has some 24,305 oil boiler heating systems in the dwellings in its stock. On average each year we are changing 980 of these to gas or other heating systems, as allowed by the funding that is available (given all of our stock investment priorities) and the delivery contracts that are in place.\n\nIn addition, a high number of these oil heating systems are in properties in rural areas where the gas infrastructure is not available. Our intention is to eventually change these to air or ground source heat pumps, and we have been piloting these in a number of schemes - primarily the Low Carbon Heating Programme - to inform the review of our Heating Policy and our intended introduction of a new Landlord Decarbonised Heating Policy (as noted in our Corporate Sustainable Development Strategy & Action Plan). However, we are not yet in a position – in both delivery and funding terms – to roll out the scale of programme that would be required to address all of these off the grid properties, and certainly not by 2027.”","answerHtml":"My Department is currently consulting on proposals for a revised Decent Homes Standard, which is the standard that all social housing is required to meet. The consultation includes proposals to support the transition towards low carbon heating. I aim to publish the revised Decent Homes Standard later in 2026, but a period of transition will be required for social housing providers which will extend beyond the mandate.
In relation to the Housing Executive, I have sought the requested information from the NIHE Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“It will not be possible to transition the Housing Executive’s remaining oil heating systems to gas or no/low carbon alternatives by this date. The Housing Executive currently has some 24,305 oil boiler heating systems in the dwellings in its stock. On average each year we are changing 980 of these to gas or other heating systems, as allowed by the funding that is available (given all of our stock investment priorities) and the delivery contracts that are in place.
In addition, a high number of these oil heating systems are in properties in rural areas where the gas infrastructure is not available. Our intention is to eventually change these to air or ground source heat pumps, and we have been piloting these in a number of schemes - primarily the Low Carbon Heating Programme - to inform the review of our Heating Policy and our intended introduction of a new Landlord Decarbonised Heating Policy (as noted in our Corporate Sustainable Development Strategy & Action Plan). However, we are not yet in a position – in both delivery and funding terms – to roll out the scale of programme that would be required to address all of these off the grid properties, and certainly not by 2027.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038210%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466271","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466271"}},{"id":"466270","reference":"AQW 38209/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-14","answerBy":"2026-01-29","answered":"2026-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will be following the Welsh Housing Quality Standard, from April 2026, to ensure protection for all tenures across Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I will not be following the Welsh Housing Quality Standard from April 2026.\n\nMy Department is currently consulting on proposals to revise the Decent Homes Standard, which is the standard that all social housing providers are required to meet in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I will not be following the Welsh Housing Quality Standard from April 2026.
My Department is currently consulting on proposals to revise the Decent Homes Standard, which is the standard that all social housing providers are required to meet in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038209%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466270","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466270"}},{"id":"466269","reference":"AQW 38208/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-14","answerBy":"2026-01-29","answered":"2026-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 36330/22-27, to provide copies of the minutes of meetings (i) he; or (ii) his officials, have had with Hospitality Ulster, where the University of Stirling's recommendations following the Report of the Independent Review of the Liquor Licensing system in Northern Ireland including the Surrender Principle were discussed, including the (a) dates; and (b) locations, of the meetings; and (c) attendees and their positions within his Department.","answerText":"I have arranged for the information you requested to be placed in the Assembly library.","answerHtml":"I have arranged for the information you requested to be placed in the Assembly library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038208%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466269","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466269"}},{"id":"466074","reference":"AQW 38092/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-13","answerBy":"2026-01-28","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) his assessment of the new powers being introduced in Scotland that give landlords the ability to remove domestic abusers from tenancy agreements from August 2026; and (ii) whether he has any plans to introduce similar legislation.","answerText":"The relevant Scottish regulations will allow social landlords to apply for court orders to end a tenancy in cases involving abusive behaviour, enabling a victim of domestic abuse to remain in their home. The powers under Schedule 3 of the Housing (NI) Order 1983, includes domestic violence as a potential ground for possession if specific criteria are met. The NIHE, as part of the Housing Executive’s Domestic Abuse Action Plan, is examining the issue of action to be taken against perpetrators of domestic abuse, including evaluating the current options and considering the approach taken in other areas of the UK. It aims to produce a report with recommendations by April.","answerHtml":"The relevant Scottish regulations will allow social landlords to apply for court orders to end a tenancy in cases involving abusive behaviour, enabling a victim of domestic abuse to remain in their home. The powers under Schedule 3 of the Housing (NI) Order 1983, includes domestic violence as a potential ground for possession if specific criteria are met. The NIHE, as part of the Housing Executive’s Domestic Abuse Action Plan, is examining the issue of action to be taken against perpetrators of domestic abuse, including evaluating the current options and considering the approach taken in other areas of the UK. It aims to produce a report with recommendations by April.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038092%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466074","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466074"}},{"id":"466073","reference":"AQW 38091/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-13","answerBy":"2026-01-28","answered":"2026-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of (i) new social home business cases which have been approved, but are awaiting planning permission in order to proceed; and (ii) homes agreed in each business case, in the Strangford constituency, broken down by District Electoral Area.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“There are three proposed new social housing schemes (with an associated 24 new social homes) included in the 2025/26 Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) for the Strangford Parliamentary Constituency:\n\n2-6 North Street, Newtownards (Arbour Housing – 10 units).\n\nCastle Street, Comber (Radius Housing – 13 units).\n\nParsonage Close, Kircubbin (Rural Housing – 1 unit).\n\nFor all three scheme proposals, Applications for Project Approval (with associated Economic Appraisals/Business Cases) have been submitted to the Housing Executive’s Development Programme Group (DPG). These proposals are currently under assessment and Project Approval has yet to be confirmed. Planning Approvals for all three scheme proposals are already in place. Please note that the Housing Executive does not record SHDP data by District Electoral Area.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“There are three proposed new social housing schemes (with an associated 24 new social homes) included in the 2025/26 Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) for the Strangford Parliamentary Constituency:
2-6 North Street, Newtownards (Arbour Housing – 10 units).
Castle Street, Comber (Radius Housing – 13 units).
Parsonage Close, Kircubbin (Rural Housing – 1 unit).
For all three scheme proposals, Applications for Project Approval (with associated Economic Appraisals/Business Cases) have been submitted to the Housing Executive’s Development Programme Group (DPG). These proposals are currently under assessment and Project Approval has yet to be confirmed. Planning Approvals for all three scheme proposals are already in place. Please note that the Housing Executive does not record SHDP data by District Electoral Area.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038091%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466073","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466073"}},{"id":"466072","reference":"AQW 38090/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-13","answerBy":"2026-01-28","answered":"2026-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide a copy of all Ministerial Direction decisions taken by him, during his tenure as Minister for Communities.","answerText":"I have made no Ministerial directions during my tenure as Minister for Communities.","answerHtml":"I have made no Ministerial directions during my tenure as Minister for Communities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038090%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466072","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466072"}},{"id":"466071","reference":"AQW 38089/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-13","answerBy":"2026-01-28","answered":"2026-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to detail any plans in place to improve soundproofing around the Members' Dining Room, to ensure those attending meetings in Room 115 can properly hear proceedings.","answerText":"The Assembly Commission recognises the importance of ensuring that Members and others attending meetings in Room 115 are able to hear proceedings clearly, and understands the concerns that have been raised.\n\nThe building’s Grade A listed status places significant constraints on the type of alterations that can be made, which greatly limits the scope for further soundproofing, however the Assembly Commission will explore practical, non-intrusive ways to minimise noise disruption between the Members’ Dining Room and Room 115.","answerHtml":"The Assembly Commission recognises the importance of ensuring that Members and others attending meetings in Room 115 are able to hear proceedings clearly, and understands the concerns that have been raised.
The building’s Grade A listed status places significant constraints on the type of alterations that can be made, which greatly limits the scope for further soundproofing, however the Assembly Commission will explore practical, non-intrusive ways to minimise noise disruption between the Members’ Dining Room and Room 115.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038089%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466071","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466071"}},{"id":"465553","reference":"AQW 37889/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-09","answerBy":"2026-01-26","answered":"2026-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether (i) she is aware of the change to disability transport classification; and (ii) the Driver and Vehicle Agency can be supported with this new provision.","answerText":"I can advise that I am unaware of any change to disability transport classification.","answerHtml":"I can advise that I am unaware of any change to disability transport classification.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037889%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465553","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465553"}},{"id":"465552","reference":"AQW 37888/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-09","answerBy":"2026-01-26","answered":"2026-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of social homes that are projected to be delivered through the Proposed Draft Budget 2026-29/30.","answerText":"When a final Budget for 2026-2029/30 has been agreed by the Executive, I will prioritize the capital allocation for my Department and will provide an allocation for the Social Housing Development Programme.\n\nIt will then be for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, as the commissioning body for the Social Housing Development Programme, to consider how the budget may best be used to meet identified housing need before any figure for starts in 2026-29/30 can be confirmed.","answerHtml":"When a final Budget for 2026-2029/30 has been agreed by the Executive, I will prioritize the capital allocation for my Department and will provide an allocation for the Social Housing Development Programme.
It will then be for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, as the commissioning body for the Social Housing Development Programme, to consider how the budget may best be used to meet identified housing need before any figure for starts in 2026-29/30 can be confirmed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037888%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465552","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465552"}},{"id":"465551","reference":"AQW 37887/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-09","answerBy":"2026-01-26","answered":"2026-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of meetings his Department has had with NI Water concerning the capacity issues holding back the delivery of new social homes, including delivery of the housing supply strategy.","answerText":"My senior officials attend the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) 'Housing Strategy Meetings’, alongside NI Water and other stakeholders, which are focused on unlocking capacity for new social homes.\n\nDepartmental officials also meet regularly with DfI colleagues, including through the Supply Strategy action planning process, to develop strategic actions which can address wastewater capacity issues and prioritise housing supply.\n\nAlongside this, the Housing Executive maintains on-going engagement with NI Water to review the status of all proposed new social housing schemes currently included in the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).\n\nIn addition to the on-going assessment of programmed new social housing schemes, the Housing Executive also engages with NI Water regarding new housing delivery beyond the current 3-Year SHDP in the context of long-term housing need and NI Water’s next Price Control period (PC28).","answerHtml":"My senior officials attend the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) 'Housing Strategy Meetings’, alongside NI Water and other stakeholders, which are focused on unlocking capacity for new social homes.
Departmental officials also meet regularly with DfI colleagues, including through the Supply Strategy action planning process, to develop strategic actions which can address wastewater capacity issues and prioritise housing supply.
Alongside this, the Housing Executive maintains on-going engagement with NI Water to review the status of all proposed new social housing schemes currently included in the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).
In addition to the on-going assessment of programmed new social housing schemes, the Housing Executive also engages with NI Water regarding new housing delivery beyond the current 3-Year SHDP in the context of long-term housing need and NI Water’s next Price Control period (PC28).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037887%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465551","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465551"}},{"id":"465550","reference":"AQW 37886/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-09","answerBy":"2026-01-26","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of new social housing developments that have been (i) objected to; or (ii) refused by, NI Water at planning application stage.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive does not hold a definitive figure for the number of new social housing developments objected to or refused by NI Water at planning application stage. This is because development proposals are at various stages of the planning process, and NI Water’s position can change as conditions are addressed, or solutions identified, through the Wastewater Impact Assessment (WWiA) process. Some schemes receive planning approval with NI Water conditionality, which is later resolved. Others face initial refusal pending WWiA outcomes, but approval may follow once solutions are agreed.\n\nIn summer 2025, NI Water carried out a high-level risk assessment of the 3-year Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) ‘New Bids’. Based on data provided in August 2025:\n\n2,751 units: Solution possible, no issues envisaged.\n\n1,302 units: Requires developer engagement to determine if a solution is possible.\n\n649 units: Requires NI Water capital works upgrade.\n\nCurrent Position for 2025/26\n\nThe table below summarises NIHE’s understanding of the position for proposals within the 2025/26 SHDP year:\n\nPlanning / NI Water Position\tNr Schemes\tNr Units\nApproval not required\t15\t55\nApproval in place\t59\t1,080\nPlanning Approval TBC / NI Water Approval in place\t20\t842\nPlanning Approval / NI Water Approval TBC\t3\t339\nTotal\t97\t2,316\n\nNIHE continues to engage with NI Water and other stakeholders to manage these risks proactively.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive does not hold a definitive figure for the number of new social housing developments objected to or refused by NI Water at planning application stage. This is because development proposals are at various stages of the planning process, and NI Water’s position can change as conditions are addressed, or solutions identified, through the Wastewater Impact Assessment (WWiA) process. Some schemes receive planning approval with NI Water conditionality, which is later resolved. Others face initial refusal pending WWiA outcomes, but approval may follow once solutions are agreed.
In summer 2025, NI Water carried out a high-level risk assessment of the 3-year Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) ‘New Bids’. Based on data provided in August 2025:
2,751 units: Solution possible, no issues envisaged.
1,302 units: Requires developer engagement to determine if a solution is possible.
649 units: Requires NI Water capital works upgrade.
Current Position for 2025/26
The table below summarises NIHE’s understanding of the position for proposals within the 2025/26 SHDP year:
| Planning / NI Water Position | Nr Schemes | Nr Units |
| Approval not required | 15 | 55 |
| Approval in place | 59 | 1,080 |
| Planning Approval TBC / NI Water Approval in place | 20 | 842 |
| Planning Approval / NI Water Approval TBC | 3 | 339 |
| Total | 97 | 2,316 |
NIHE continues to engage with NI Water and other stakeholders to manage these risks proactively.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037886%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465550","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465550"}},{"id":"465348","reference":"AQW 37786/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-08","answerBy":"2026-01-23","answered":"2026-01-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the number of planning applications NI Water received for the Ards and North Down local council area, over the last five years, broken down by total number per year; (ii) the number of these applications approved each year; (iii) the number of these applications rejected by NI Water; and (iv) whether the rejected applications were for residential or businesses.","answerText":"The number of planning applications and responses from NI Water in the Ards and North Down Council area is an operational matter for NI Water; therefore, I have requested the required information. NI Water advice in respect of the member’s question is detailed in the table below. This information relates to responses that NI Water has provided to the Ards and North Down Council Planning Department, which may include reasons for refusal. It remains within the remit and responsibility of the Local Planning Authority, as to whether NI Water’s recommendations are accepted.\n\nYear\n2021*\t2022\t2023\t2024\t2025\nPlanning applications received\t151\t239\t313\t203\t261\nPlanning applications approved\t133\t197\t264\t164\t199\nPlanning applications refused\t18\t42\t49\t39\t62\n\nResidential applications refused\t16\t35\t36\t34\t43\n‘Other’ applications refused\t2\t7\t13\t5\t19\n\n* Represents an incomplete year. Information only started being collected from June 2021.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com.\n\nMaking direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.","answerHtml":"The number of planning applications and responses from NI Water in the Ards and North Down Council area is an operational matter for NI Water; therefore, I have requested the required information. NI Water advice in respect of the member’s question is detailed in the table below. This information relates to responses that NI Water has provided to the Ards and North Down Council Planning Department, which may include reasons for refusal. It remains within the remit and responsibility of the Local Planning Authority, as to whether NI Water’s recommendations are accepted.
| Year | |||||
| 2021* | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | |
| Planning applications received | 151 | 239 | 313 | 203 | 261 |
| Planning applications approved | 133 | 197 | 264 | 164 | 199 |
| Planning applications refused | 18 | 42 | 49 | 39 | 62 |
| Residential applications refused | 16 | 35 | 36 | 34 | 43 |
| ‘Other’ applications refused | 2 | 7 | 13 | 5 | 19 |
* Represents an incomplete year. Information only started being collected from June 2021.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com.
Making direct contact with NI Water 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%2037786%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465348","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465348"}},{"id":"465347","reference":"AQW 37785/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-08","answerBy":"2026-01-23","answered":"2026-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether a review of NI Water's objectives has been carried out to ensure they are aligned to the key priorities contained in the Programme for Government, such as new housing and support for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises.","answerText":"Effective water and sewerage infrastructure is central to the delivery of Programme for Government outcomes in terms of providing more social, affordable and sustainable housing, protecting Lough Neagh and the environment and growing a globally competitive and sustainable economy.\n\nIn relation to protecting Lough Neagh, NI Water has invested £60m in its infrastructure in the first 4 years of PC21 and has committed a further £36m in the remaining 3 years of the Price Control.\n\nIn terms of enabling housing connections, since autumn 2024, my Department has provided an additional £30m of capital funding to enable the unlocking of wastewater capacity for 5,300 additional domestic and non-domestic properties across the North. This is above the 4,300 properties that NI Water originally planned to connect, if fully funded, by the end of this Price Control Period in 2028.\n\nI am steadfast in my commitment to ensuring that NI Water deliver the vital infrastructure to achieve the Programme Government outcomes and I will continue to work with my Executive colleagues to deliver for all.","answerHtml":"Effective water and sewerage infrastructure is central to the delivery of Programme for Government outcomes in terms of providing more social, affordable and sustainable housing, protecting Lough Neagh and the environment and growing a globally competitive and sustainable economy.
In relation to protecting Lough Neagh, NI Water has invested £60m in its infrastructure in the first 4 years of PC21 and has committed a further £36m in the remaining 3 years of the Price Control.
In terms of enabling housing connections, since autumn 2024, my Department has provided an additional £30m of capital funding to enable the unlocking of wastewater capacity for 5,300 additional domestic and non-domestic properties across the North. This is above the 4,300 properties that NI Water originally planned to connect, if fully funded, by the end of this Price Control Period in 2028.
I am steadfast in my commitment to ensuring that NI Water deliver the vital infrastructure to achieve the Programme Government outcomes and I will continue to work with my Executive colleagues to deliver for all.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037785%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465347","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465347"}},{"id":"465346","reference":"AQW 37784/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-08","answerBy":"2026-01-23","answered":"2026-01-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail whether the £63million of unclaimed benefits delivered via the Make the Call Wraparound Service, as outlined in his Department's press release on 16 Dec 2025, has been delivered from the Make the Call Wraparound Service alone, or if any other partner agencies were involved in supporting those accessing welfare support.","answerText":"The £63million of unclaimed benefits was generated through direct engagement with the Make the Call Wraparound Service. While referrals are received from partner organisations, the recorded outcomes reflect the Department’s direct assessment, advisory and outreach support, which led to the successful uptake of benefit entitlements.","answerHtml":"The £63million of unclaimed benefits was generated through direct engagement with the Make the Call Wraparound Service. While referrals are received from partner organisations, the recorded outcomes reflect the Department’s direct assessment, advisory and outreach support, which led to the successful uptake of benefit entitlements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037784%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465346","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465346"}},{"id":"465345","reference":"AQW 37783/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-08","answerBy":"2026-01-23","answered":"2026-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the amount he included for benefit cap mitigations in his bid for the Proposed Draft Budget 2026-29/30.","answerText":"In the budget exercise my Department submitted a bid for Welfare Mitigations which included Benefit Cap Mitigations of £12.7million in 2026-27, £13.0million in 2027-28 and £13.4million in 2028-29.","answerHtml":"In the budget exercise my Department submitted a bid for Welfare Mitigations which included Benefit Cap Mitigations of £12.7million in 2026-27, £13.0million in 2027-28 and £13.4million in 2028-29.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037783%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465345","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465345"}},{"id":"465344","reference":"AQW 37782/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-08","answerBy":"2026-01-23","answered":"2026-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an updated Departmental organisational chart detailing the new senior management team following a number of recent retirements.","answerText":"An organisational chart detailing my Department’s senior management team will be confirmed following the appointment of a new Permanent Secretary.","answerHtml":"An organisational chart detailing my Department’s senior management team will be confirmed following the appointment of a new Permanent Secretary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037782%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465344","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465344"}},{"id":"465273","reference":"AQO 2942/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-08","answerBy":"2026-01-19","answered":"2026-01-19","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 work of the Interim Regional Planning Commission.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"The interim Regional Planning Commission has concluded its work programme. It submitted its report to me in November 2025. The report, which is titled, 'The Next Decade: A Framework for Change in the NI Planning System', summarises the work undertaken by the commission as part of the agreed work programme since February 2023. It also suggests a 10-year vision for planning in the North, including eight key recommendations to support that vision. 7 My officials and I are undertaking a detailed review of the report. A formal response will be published in due course, outlining my consideration of the report in the context of its original aims and objectives and the wider planning improvement agenda."},{"speaker":"Ms K Armstrong","text":"As the Minister said, the report was given to her Department in November 2025. When does the Minister anticipate the publication of that report, and why is it taking so long?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"As the Member said, it was November 2025, which is just a few weeks ago. It is important that we properly consider and scrutinise the report before coming to our conclusions. I intend to publish it at the earliest possible stage. It is an important piece of work, and I want to see what has come out of the report in order to maximise its impact and inform the next steps."},{"speaker":"Miss Dolan","text":"Minister, how does the work of the interim Regional Planning Commission contribute to the planning improvement agenda?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"The work of the commission contributes to the planning improvement agenda by providing independent evidence-based insight to inform the overall direction and delivery of planning improvement measures and initiatives. By bringing together cross-sectoral expertise and a comprehensive programme of engagement, the commission can ensure that the agenda is informed by real-world experience and stakeholder perspectives. Its evidence-led approach will ensure that current and future improvement actions and initiatives align with its overarching aim of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning system for all. The commission explored a range of topics, including best-practice planning in other jurisdictions across England, Scotland and Wales and particular differences and planning improvements in each system. It also explored current issues in development management and local development plan making, including key areas of delay, potential improvements and lessons learned. Sessions sought the experiences of the business, environment and housing sectors in relation to barriers in the planning system and potential improvements to service delivery from a legislative, procedural and administrative perspective. As I have said in answer to previous questions from Members, that underpins a lot of the work that the Department has been doing to address and recognise key issues in our planning system."},{"speaker":"Mr Harvey","text":"Minister, there are significant disparities in the operation of council planning functions, a fact that is raised repeatedly by the Northern Ireland Audit Office and the interim commission. What can be done to ensure greater efficiency and sharing of best practice across the 11 councils?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"I thank the Member for that question, because it is an opportunity to reflect on the work that we have been doing through the planning improvement programme. We do that work for all those reasons. You and I are former councillors, so we have been there from the early days of the devolution of planning to councils. It has been a journey, to say the least, as people have come to understand and deliver planning in council areas. The planning improvement work set out to identify the key areas of challenge, where there are commonalities and how to share good practice on what does and does not work well in some council areas and how that can work together. That work has been ongoing. We are also targeting efficiency, as I mentioned, through the new validation checklist and by introducing trainee planners. That will help to speed up the process for applicants and ensure that more senior planners can get on with the work that they need to do."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202942%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465273","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-01-19&docID=466141#AQO%202942/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465273"}},{"id":"464771","reference":"AQW 37593/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-06","answerBy":"2026-01-14","answered":"2026-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) why 11 individuals were unable to access emergency shelter under the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol on Sunday 4 January 2026, due to capacity related issues; and (ii) any steps his Department will take to prevent this happening again.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive put in place SWEP arrangements on 4th January to support those sleeping rough to secure emergency accommodation. While one of the SWEP providers did face capacity and logistical challenges on the night of the 4thJanuary, the Housing Executive’s Out of Hours homelessness service engaged throughout the night with our partner organisations to address issues of rough sleeping, as would normally be the case in such instances.\n\nSWEP is a distinct additional and non-statutory arrangement put in place by the NIHE, in partnership with voluntary and community sector partners to meet emergency accommodation needs for anyone sleeping rough.\n\nIt is not unusual for SWEP to be in place for prolonged periods during the winter months, as indeed it was last year, and the NIHE is grateful to voluntary and community sector partners for working so effectively with us. Our teams will continue to work alongside those voluntary and community sector partners around the clock to ensure provision is maintained.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive put in place SWEP arrangements on 4th January to support those sleeping rough to secure emergency accommodation. While one of the SWEP providers did face capacity and logistical challenges on the night of the 4thJanuary, the Housing Executive’s Out of Hours homelessness service engaged throughout the night with our partner organisations to address issues of rough sleeping, as would normally be the case in such instances.
SWEP is a distinct additional and non-statutory arrangement put in place by the NIHE, in partnership with voluntary and community sector partners to meet emergency accommodation needs for anyone sleeping rough.
It is not unusual for SWEP to be in place for prolonged periods during the winter months, as indeed it was last year, and the NIHE is grateful to voluntary and community sector partners for working so effectively with us. Our teams will continue to work alongside those voluntary and community sector partners around the clock to ensure provision is maintained.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037593%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464771","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464771"}},{"id":"464770","reference":"AQW 37592/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-06","answerBy":"2026-01-21","answered":"2026-01-14","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 to detail any steps they (i) have taken, since the beginning of the 2022-2027 Assembly mandate; or (ii) intend to take, to engage with those who have been subject to sexual abuse, in church settings.","answerText":"Historical clerical child abuse (HCCA) has had a devastating impact on those affected and we express our deepest sympathy and solidarity to all victims and survivors of this terrible abuse.\n\nIn this current mandate, Junior Ministers have engaged with victims and survivors, listening to their stories and hearing their views on what is needed. This has included attending meetings of the Reference group of victims and survivors in September 2024 and May 2025 and meeting with individual victims and survivors.\n\nIn addition, officials have liaised closely with the Reference group of victims and survivors to develop the terms of reference for the 3 research projects that were completed last year, regularly update on progress of the work, and discuss the findings and recommendations. We are very grateful to all those who have participated and shared their experiences.\n\nWe remain committed to engaging with victims and survivors, whose views we will take into account as we move forward in our deliberations on this complex and sensitive issue.","answerHtml":"Historical clerical child abuse (HCCA) has had a devastating impact on those affected and we express our deepest sympathy and solidarity to all victims and survivors of this terrible abuse.
In this current mandate, Junior Ministers have engaged with victims and survivors, listening to their stories and hearing their views on what is needed. This has included attending meetings of the Reference group of victims and survivors in September 2024 and May 2025 and meeting with individual victims and survivors.
In addition, officials have liaised closely with the Reference group of victims and survivors to develop the terms of reference for the 3 research projects that were completed last year, regularly update on progress of the work, and discuss the findings and recommendations. We are very grateful to all those who have participated and shared their experiences.
We remain committed to engaging with victims and survivors, whose views we will take into account as we move forward in our deliberations on this complex and sensitive issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037592%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464770","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464770"}},{"id":"464769","reference":"AQW 37591/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-06","answerBy":"2026-01-21","answered":"2026-01-14","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 to detail when they will publish the reports of independent experts on Historical Clerical Child Abuse, including the set of recommendations agreed by the inter-departmental working group, survivors and public interest groups.","answerText":"We are currently carefully considering the findings of the research into Historical Clerical Child Abuse.\n\nOfficials remain committed to engaging with victims and survivors to ensure they are kept informed of developments","answerHtml":"We are currently carefully considering the findings of the research into Historical Clerical Child Abuse.
Officials remain committed to engaging with victims and survivors to ensure they are kept informed of developments
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037591%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464769","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464769"}},{"id":"464768","reference":"AQW 37590/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-06","answerBy":"2026-01-21","answered":"2026-01-14","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 to detail (i) their action plan; (ii) budgetary allocation; and (iii) a timeline, as to how they intend to respond to the recommendations of the commissioned research into Historical Clerical Child Abuse.","answerText":"We are currently carefully considering the findings of the research into Historical Clerical Child Abuse.\n\nOfficials remain committed to engaging with victims and survivors to ensure they are kept informed of developments","answerHtml":"We are currently carefully considering the findings of the research into Historical Clerical Child Abuse.
Officials remain committed to engaging with victims and survivors to ensure they are kept informed of developments
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037590%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464768","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464768"}},{"id":"464767","reference":"AQW 37589/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-06","answerBy":"2026-01-21","answered":"2026-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the amount of funding allocated to the Housing Executive for providing services when the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol is triggered, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is managed within the Strategic Prevention annual budget that forms part of the Homeless programme. The expenditure for the last five financial years is detailed in the table below:”\n\n2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\t2024/25\nSWEP Spend\t-\t£5,190\t£35,873\t£9,837\t£51,523","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is managed within the Strategic Prevention annual budget that forms part of the Homeless programme. The expenditure for the last five financial years is detailed in the table below:”
| 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 | |
| SWEP Spend | - | £5,190 | £35,873 | £9,837 | £51,523 |
Assistance may be available via a Disabled Facilities Grant for individuals who are immobile or have a serious terminal illness where such measures are identified as a clinical need and recommended by an Occupational Therapist as part of an adaptation to meet the needs of an individual. Disabled Facilities Grants are available to eligible private home owners, private landlords and tenants for works necessary to fulfil an Occupational Therapist’s recommendation, ensuring a disabled person’s home is safe and accessible.
Affordable Warmth Scheme grants assist low-income households living in private accommodation by providing grants for energy efficiency to address the effects of fuel poverty.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037517%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464517"}},{"id":"464516","reference":"AQW 37516/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-05","answerBy":"2026-01-20","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of Disabled Facilities Grants awarded, broken down by (i) the total amount of grant funding issued; (ii) the average grant awarded per application; and (iii) the average amount applicants have contributed to the costs of works, in each council area, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 37516/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 37516/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037516%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464516"}},{"id":"464515","reference":"AQW 37515/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-05","answerBy":"2026-01-20","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps his Department has in place to measure the effectiveness of the Disabled Facilities Grant (i) in meeting Occupational Therapist recommended adaptations; and (ii) in how it is managed and operated by the Housing Executive.","answerText":"My Department is currently carrying out a review of NIHE-Administered Private Sector Grants, including the Disabled Facilities Grant, and in this regard is working closely with the Department of Health and the Housing Executive to identify improvements. A public consultation on proposals for change will take place this year.\n\n(i) Health Trust Occupational Therapists (OTs) are involved throughout the Disabled Facilities Grant process to ensure the recommended adaptations are met and are appropriate to meet the needs of a disabled person. OTs review all plans and any issues are addressed through engagement with the applicant and their architect where necessary, until both the Housing Executive and the OT are satisfied that the client’s needs are met. An OT must formally approve the plans before any grant approval is issued. Upon completion of the works, the OT is required to inspect and confirm that the adaptations meet their client’s needs before the payment of grantaid.\n\n(ii) The Housing Executive has a structured Disabled Facilities Grant process and measures performance and delivery against defined service standards. Customer satisfaction surveys are completed and survey results reviewed on a monthly basis.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently carrying out a review of NIHE-Administered Private Sector Grants, including the Disabled Facilities Grant, and in this regard is working closely with the Department of Health and the Housing Executive to identify improvements. A public consultation on proposals for change will take place this year.
(i) Health Trust Occupational Therapists (OTs) are involved throughout the Disabled Facilities Grant process to ensure the recommended adaptations are met and are appropriate to meet the needs of a disabled person. OTs review all plans and any issues are addressed through engagement with the applicant and their architect where necessary, until both the Housing Executive and the OT are satisfied that the client’s needs are met. An OT must formally approve the plans before any grant approval is issued. Upon completion of the works, the OT is required to inspect and confirm that the adaptations meet their client’s needs before the payment of grantaid.
(ii) The Housing Executive has a structured Disabled Facilities Grant process and measures performance and delivery against defined service standards. Customer satisfaction surveys are completed and survey results reviewed on a monthly basis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037515%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464515","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464515"}},{"id":"464514","reference":"AQW 37514/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-05","answerBy":"2026-01-20","answered":"2026-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any undeveloped land owned by the Housing Executive in Strangford.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 37514/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 37514/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037514%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464514","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464514"}},{"id":"464513","reference":"AQW 37513/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-05","answerBy":"2026-01-20","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the average time taken from a report being made, to completion of repairs or replacement, as a result of tenant-reported heating system problems, in Housing Executive properties, broken down by council area, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"I am advised by the Housing Executive that the requested information is not readily available.\n\nThis issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“Domestic heating faults vary extensively. When a tenant reports any heating fault, it is categorised into one of three groups – Emergency, Urgent or Routine – dependant on the nature of the fault.\n\nEMERGENCY call out – to be responded to by telephone with a triage call within 15 minutes, made safe within 2 hours where applicable and completed within 24 hours.\n\nURGENT work – appointment made with the tenant and work completed within 4 working days.\n\nROUTINE work – appointment made with the tenant and work completed within 15 working days.\n\nTenants are not left without any form of heat. Temporary Room Heaters are made available in the event of a repair not being possible at the time of attendance and, where alternative hot water provision is available in the form of an immersion heater, it is ensured that this is operational before leaving the property.”","answerHtml":"I am advised by the Housing Executive that the requested information is not readily available.
This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“Domestic heating faults vary extensively. When a tenant reports any heating fault, it is categorised into one of three groups – Emergency, Urgent or Routine – dependant on the nature of the fault.
EMERGENCY call out – to be responded to by telephone with a triage call within 15 minutes, made safe within 2 hours where applicable and completed within 24 hours.
URGENT work – appointment made with the tenant and work completed within 4 working days.
ROUTINE work – appointment made with the tenant and work completed within 15 working days.
Tenants are not left without any form of heat. Temporary Room Heaters are made available in the event of a repair not being possible at the time of attendance and, where alternative hot water provision is available in the form of an immersion heater, it is ensured that this is operational before leaving the property.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037513%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464513","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464513"}},{"id":"464580","reference":"AQO 2908/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-05","answerBy":"2026-01-13","answered":"2026-01-13","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline how the Neighbourhood Model of Care will bring care closer to home for under-served communities.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt (The Minister of Health)","text":"I made a commitment in the reset plan to developing a neighbourhood model to deliver greater levels of care to our citizens in their local communities. The model will see community pharmacies, GPs and their federations, voluntary and community organisations, trusts and independent providers working closely together in formal partnerships to provide integrated care. It is an important enabler for my commitment to shift left. Building a neighbourhood model will require providers to work in new ways. It will be built around 17 integrated neighbourhood teams, which will act as provider alliances. They will operate within trusts or within an area-integrated partnership board footprint at GP federation level. They will serve an average population of 115,000 people. Integrated neighbourhood teams will know the populations that they serve and will work together as a team of teams, leading and driving the delivery of the neighbourhood's core functions and priorities for care closer to home. They will work with smaller neighbourhoods within the footprint, which are the communities to which people feel they naturally belong. We will take a phased approach to developing and implementing the model. The design phase has involved significant research, stakeholder engagement and launching a call for evidence to identify existing good practice. In addition, learning from my Live Better initiative will be taken into account. We are about to move into phase 2, which is the build phase, identifying neighbourhood sites and activities and establishing systems for delivery, as well as the funding arrangements. Implementation will commence from April 2026, when we will have worked through the operational details and will move into the delivery phase."},{"speaker":"Ms K Armstrong","text":"Thank you, Minister. I am very intrigued by your answer, in which you mentioned the 17 integrated neighbourhood teams. However, one of the groups of people who have not been included are the patients. Co-production and co-design are core, underpinning themes of the Northern Ireland Executive and the Assembly. How will the 17 integrated neighbourhood teams work in partnership with communities, particularly isolated rural communities, LGBTQIA communities, asylum seekers and so on?"},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"I thank the Member for her observation. Of course, I want patients and communities to be involved in the model. Without their buy-in, it will be very difficult to achieve. For me, the starting point has to be talking to the experts who know how to deliver a neighbourhood scheme. I will take you back to what Professor Bengoa said to me when he was last here: \"Be very tight on your outcomes but very loose on how you achieve them, because you are not a nurse, a doctor, a GP, a clinician, a surgeon or, indeed, a health service administrator. I mentioned my Live Better initiative to look at health inequalities, which began in two demonstration areas. Those models were based on liaison with populations that we were there to serve. Those two different populations — one urban population in Derry/Londonderry and one urban population in Belfast — came up with different desires. It is my desire that rolling out the neighbourhood model will not be a one-size-fits-all but will, indeed, reflect the desires of local populations."},{"speaker":"Mr McGuigan","text":"In your response, Minister, you mentioned the importance of GPs, pharmacies, the independent sector, domiciliary carers etc, and I wholeheartedly agree with that. It will be no surprise to the Minister that, when some of those groups come to the Health Committee, they express their unhappiness and dissatisfaction with the current levels of core funding, which have caused issues. In your engagement with those groups, have you found that current issues are creating obstacles? What is the level of engagement to ensure that your proposed model will be a success?"},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"The core funding budget is not satisfactory for anybody, including me and the Department. When you break it down into GPs, community pharmacies or the hospital trusts, which are having to save hundreds of millions of pounds in this financial year, as they did last year, that is at the core of the problem. I have a number of concerns, but at the top of my list is the shortfall in next year's budget to do everything that I want to do. When you look at what we must do, which is to keep the current health service functioning, the question is this: how much money can we release for this \"save to shift\" rather than \"spend to save\"? Can we spend to move to the shift left model? That will be incredibly challenging in the next year, but the idea is to try to get everybody, or, at least, as many people as possible, to the starting line for 1 April. Rolling out a neighbourhood model will not be done in a month or a year or even in this mandate. It could be a five- to-10-year project, but the idea is to start it on 1 April in certain areas at least and prove evidentially that it works, so that we create the desire around the rest of the country to be next in line to join the model."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"Minister, I have said many times that the neighbourhood model, which delivers healthcare closer to people in their communities, is the right way forward. However, it will take a lot of time, and we need a health service that is working and functioning for patients in the here and now. I really would like some clarity on a message that I got earlier today, which told me that the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service is about to call a critical state and that there are currently 160 emergency and critical calls from those who are waiting for ambulances that cannot be answered. Can you provide clarity for the House?"},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"I am unaware of those details, but, obviously, I will check that as soon as I am able to leave the Chamber."},{"speaker":"Mr Durkan","text":"My supplementary question relates to the original question on the neighbourhood model. That model sounds fantastic in theory and looks great on paper, but I refer to Mr McGuigan's point: are you convinced that the agencies on which you are dependent to deliver it are all on board? What funding has been identified or earmarked to roll it out?"},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"I am certainly not aware of any partnership or organisation that is not up for looking at it. Since I took up post, right from the get-go, everybody whom I have spoken to who is involved in delivering health and social care in any way, including those in the voluntary and community sector, has been up for a reset, for reform and for a shift left, because I think that everybody realises that the current model is not sustainable. The question of finance remains the critical one. Can we release enough money to make a significant impact in the next financial year and set a direction of travel by the end of the mandate that the next Minister of Health feels compelled to follow? To be honest, that has to be an open question, but it is one that I am determined to try to close."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"Moving on, I call Maurice Bradley."},{"speaker":"Mr Bradley","text":"Minister, you said that 17 —."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"Question 2, Mr Bradley."},{"speaker":"Mr Bradley","text":"I thought that you were calling me for a supplementary question. My apologies."},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"Was \"moving on\" the clue?"}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202908%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464580","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-01-13&docID=465135#AQO%202908/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464580"}},{"id":"465913","reference":"AQO 2891/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-05","answerBy":"2026-01-12","answered":"2026-01-13","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 publication of the Early Learning and Childcare Strategy.","answerText":"The draft Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy was published for public consultation on 17 December 2025.\n\nThe strategy focuses on three themes: supporting children in their early years, helping families with their child’s learning and childcare costs, and strengthening the early years sector and workforce.\n\nThe strategy builds on £80 million already invested by the Executive over the past two years, which is delivering real benefits for thousands of children, families, and providers.\n\nOne of the most successful initiatives has been the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme. Since its launch in September 2024, eligible working parents have saved almost £19 million, and combined savings are estimated at £40 million.\n\nWe have also begun moving all pre-school provision to full-time to ensure every child can access 22.5 hours of age-appropriate learning before starting school. So far, over 2,500 additional full-time places have been funded, with a further 2,200 places approved to move to full time provision from September 2026. This will mean that approximately 50% of pre-school provision, in every area of Northern Ireland, will be full time.\n\nI have also invested significantly in existing early years programmes, many of which provide targeted support to children facing disadvantage or with additional needs and disabilities.\n\nThese early actions lay the foundation for long-term progress. I strongly encourage stakeholders to respond to the consultation available on my Department’s website by the closing date of 24 March 2026. The comments will be used to inform the final version of the strategy and delivery plan.","answerHtml":"The draft Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy was published for public consultation on 17 December 2025.
The strategy focuses on three themes: supporting children in their early years, helping families with their child’s learning and childcare costs, and strengthening the early years sector and workforce.
The strategy builds on £80 million already invested by the Executive over the past two years, which is delivering real benefits for thousands of children, families, and providers.
One of the most successful initiatives has been the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme. Since its launch in September 2024, eligible working parents have saved almost £19 million, and combined savings are estimated at £40 million.
We have also begun moving all pre-school provision to full-time to ensure every child can access 22.5 hours of age-appropriate learning before starting school. So far, over 2,500 additional full-time places have been funded, with a further 2,200 places approved to move to full time provision from September 2026. This will mean that approximately 50% of pre-school provision, in every area of Northern Ireland, will be full time.
I have also invested significantly in existing early years programmes, many of which provide targeted support to children facing disadvantage or with additional needs and disabilities.
These early actions lay the foundation for long-term progress. I strongly encourage stakeholders to respond to the consultation available on my Department’s website by the closing date of 24 March 2026. The comments will be used to inform the final version of the strategy and delivery plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202891%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465913","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465913"}},{"id":"463688","reference":"AQW 37423/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-12","answerBy":"2026-01-02","answered":"2026-01-06","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, following the successful pilot by Civic Initiative, which trialled the concept of deliberative democracy, to detail whether they have reviewed the resulting report.","answerText":"We recognise and fully support the role that civic society plays in supporting policy making, through co-design and co-production approaches.","answerHtml":"We recognise and fully support the role that civic society plays in supporting policy making, through co-design and co-production approaches.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037423%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=463688","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=463688"}},{"id":"463687","reference":"AQW 37422/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-12","answerBy":"2026-01-02","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 to detail (i) any actions he is taking to (a) prevent; and (b) reduce, the number of deaths of people experiencing homelessness as reported by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) in their Deaths Of Homeless People Report 2024; and (ii) any actions he can take to ensure the number of deaths of people experiencing homelessness are included in future publications by NISRA.","answerText":"Within the Programme for Government there is a commitment to focus on the prevention of homelessness, by working collaboratively and prioritising housing solutions for those most in need.\n\nI have also provided a ringfenced an allocation of £2.5m for strategic homelessness prevention, alongside £4.3m for the continuation of community prevention activities.\n\nFollowing the release of the ‘Deaths of Homeless People in Northern Ireland’ report on 11th December, NISRA have confirmed that they plan to publish this report annually.","answerHtml":"Within the Programme for Government there is a commitment to focus on the prevention of homelessness, by working collaboratively and prioritising housing solutions for those most in need.
I have also provided a ringfenced an allocation of £2.5m for strategic homelessness prevention, alongside £4.3m for the continuation of community prevention activities.
Following the release of the ‘Deaths of Homeless People in Northern Ireland’ report on 11th December, NISRA have confirmed that they plan to publish this report annually.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037422%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=463687","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=463687"}},{"id":"463686","reference":"AQW 37421/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-12","answerBy":"2026-01-02","answered":"2026-01-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any urgent or emergency communications in place to ensure (i) school transport services; (ii) schools; (iii) parents and guardians; (iv) and pupils, are informed of road closures and disruptions to home to school journeys, particularly in coastal areas during storms, in a timely and effective manner.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the operation and delivery of school transport. It has advised me that where advance notice is available regarding road closures or transport disruption, every effort is made to communicate this effectively through schools’ parent messaging systems and social media channels.\n\nHowever, the EA does not currently operate a dedicated transport notification service that can provide real-time alerts to all service users, such as schools, pupils, parents or guardians, about urgent or unexpected changes to school transport services. This may include situations in which transport services are disrupted at short notice due to severe weather conditions or sudden road closures.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the operation and delivery of school transport. It has advised me that where advance notice is available regarding road closures or transport disruption, every effort is made to communicate this effectively through schools’ parent messaging systems and social media channels.
However, the EA does not currently operate a dedicated transport notification service that can provide real-time alerts to all service users, such as schools, pupils, parents or guardians, about urgent or unexpected changes to school transport services. This may include situations in which transport services are disrupted at short notice due to severe weather conditions or sudden road closures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037421%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=463686","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=463686"}},{"id":"463685","reference":"AQW 37420/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-12","answerBy":"2026-01-02","answered":"2026-01-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) any risk assessment processes used by Education Transport services to determine if it is safe for Home to School transport to be delivered along a coastal route during a storm; and (ii) any contingency processes enacted to ensure all Home to School transport providers use alternative routes in coastal areas to ensure the safe carriage of pupils when coastal roads, like the A20 Portaferry Road, is experiencing the impact of severe stormy weather, making driving conditions treacherous.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that during periods of severe weather and in emergency situations, its transport service works alongside the EA Emergency Planning Service to maintain situational awareness and coordinate response efforts. This enables dynamic risk assessments to be carried out to reduce risk and mitigate impact. If emergency structures are activated, the EA coordinates with multi-agency partners and in terms of road safety, it acts on advice from the PSNI and Department for Infrastructure (DfI) Roads Service who have responsibility for closing roads.\n\nWhere Schools remain open during severe weather and pupils need transport, the EA collaborates with service providers such as Translink to arrange where possible for pupils to be transported home safely. Transport decisions are guided by severe weather warnings from the Met Office and road closure notifications from PSNI or DfI. If necessary, alternative routes are considered locally, but in some scenarios, transport services may be disrupted at short notice.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that during periods of severe weather and in emergency situations, its transport service works alongside the EA Emergency Planning Service to maintain situational awareness and coordinate response efforts. This enables dynamic risk assessments to be carried out to reduce risk and mitigate impact. If emergency structures are activated, the EA coordinates with multi-agency partners and in terms of road safety, it acts on advice from the PSNI and Department for Infrastructure (DfI) Roads Service who have responsibility for closing roads.
Where Schools remain open during severe weather and pupils need transport, the EA collaborates with service providers such as Translink to arrange where possible for pupils to be transported home safely. Transport decisions are guided by severe weather warnings from the Met Office and road closure notifications from PSNI or DfI. If necessary, alternative routes are considered locally, but in some scenarios, transport services may be disrupted at short notice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037420%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=463685","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=463685"}},{"id":"463684","reference":"AQW 37419/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-12","answerBy":"2026-01-02","answered":"2026-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any process used to coordinate a multi-agency approach to close coastal roads during storms; and (ii) when a decision is made to close a coastal road, how the (a) public; (b) schools; and (c) businesses are informed of the closure.","answerText":"When road closures are necessary in an emergency situation such as a risk to life or danger to or from traffic, my departmental officials work closely with the PSNI who have the responsibly for closures in these instances.\n\nDuring storm events my departmental officials attend multi agency co-ordination meetings, to update blue light services, the Education Authority, Translink and local councils on issues impacting the travelling public. This information is also disseminated widely through the use of my department’s social media and its TrafficwatchNI website.\n\nWhere roads are closed, signage is placed on site and diversion routes will be signed where appropriate.","answerHtml":"When road closures are necessary in an emergency situation such as a risk to life or danger to or from traffic, my departmental officials work closely with the PSNI who have the responsibly for closures in these instances.
During storm events my departmental officials attend multi agency co-ordination meetings, to update blue light services, the Education Authority, Translink and local councils on issues impacting the travelling public. This information is also disseminated widely through the use of my department’s social media and its TrafficwatchNI website.
Where roads are closed, signage is placed on site and diversion routes will be signed where appropriate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037419%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=463684","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=463684"}},{"id":"462720","reference":"AQW 36932/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-05","answerBy":"2025-12-22","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 (i) when an independent scrutiny panel will be established to review the Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations; and (ii) the number places on that panel to be filled by people (a) with lived experience of waiting for housing; or (b) who have been awarded Full Duty Applicant status.","answerText":"My Department has publicly consulted on proposals for change, published an outcome report and tasked the Northern Ireland Housing Executive with implementing the proposals from the Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations (FRA). The Housing Executive has put structures in place to inform implementation, including a Stakeholder Advisory Group.\n\nI have sought further information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“A Stakeholder Advisory Group was established to assist the Housing Executive throughout the duration of the FRA Project to successfully implement the proposals for change in a way which will achieve the best possible outcomes for customers and social landlords and provide assurance on the implementation approach. The Group comprises stakeholders who have the highest interest in and influence on the project, including Housing Rights and Homeless Connect who represent the views and interest of customers who require housing and homelessness assistance.\n\nPeople with lived experience of being on the housing waiting list and receiving homelessness assistance are on a number of FRA working groups. In addition, the FRA Project secures valuable input from people with lived experience through focus groups and workshop sessions organised at key stages of the project and for specific proposals. The FRA Project engages regularly with a wide range of tenant and customer representative bodies, including the Central Housing Forum and Housing Community Network, Housing Policy Panel, Rural Residents Forum and Disability Forum.”","answerHtml":"My Department has publicly consulted on proposals for change, published an outcome report and tasked the Northern Ireland Housing Executive with implementing the proposals from the Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations (FRA). The Housing Executive has put structures in place to inform implementation, including a Stakeholder Advisory Group.
I have sought further information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“A Stakeholder Advisory Group was established to assist the Housing Executive throughout the duration of the FRA Project to successfully implement the proposals for change in a way which will achieve the best possible outcomes for customers and social landlords and provide assurance on the implementation approach. The Group comprises stakeholders who have the highest interest in and influence on the project, including Housing Rights and Homeless Connect who represent the views and interest of customers who require housing and homelessness assistance.
People with lived experience of being on the housing waiting list and receiving homelessness assistance are on a number of FRA working groups. In addition, the FRA Project secures valuable input from people with lived experience through focus groups and workshop sessions organised at key stages of the project and for specific proposals. The FRA Project engages regularly with a wide range of tenant and customer representative bodies, including the Central Housing Forum and Housing Community Network, Housing Policy Panel, Rural Residents Forum and Disability Forum.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036932%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462720","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462720"}},{"id":"462719","reference":"AQW 36931/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-05","answerBy":"2025-12-22","answered":"2026-01-13","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 that has been made of the number of serious adverse incidents occurring in hostels and temporary accommodation, in this mandate.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“Provider organisations carry out their own analysis of incidents to ensure that staff training needs, safeguarding considerations, and any identified risks are appropriately addressed. Major Adverse Incidents, along with other incident types, are discussed at Contract Management meetings and during Quality Monitoring visits undertaken by the Supporting People team with provider organisations.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“Provider organisations carry out their own analysis of incidents to ensure that staff training needs, safeguarding considerations, and any identified risks are appropriately addressed. Major Adverse Incidents, along with other incident types, are discussed at Contract Management meetings and during Quality Monitoring visits undertaken by the Supporting People team with provider organisations.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036931%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462719","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462719"}},{"id":"462718","reference":"AQW 36930/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-05","answerBy":"2025-12-22","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 any assessment that has been carried out to ensure all services being delivered under the Supporting People Programme are paying salaries at the National Living Wage.","answerText":"Neither my Department or the Housing Executive have a role in setting salaries or employment terms and conditions for staff employed by Supporting People Scheme Providers.","answerHtml":"Neither my Department or the Housing Executive have a role in setting salaries or employment terms and conditions for staff employed by Supporting People Scheme Providers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036930%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462718","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462718"}},{"id":"462717","reference":"AQW 36929/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-05","answerBy":"2025-12-22","answered":"2026-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any percentage uplift for the Supporting People Programme funding that has been included in his Department’s calculations for the multi-year budget starting in April 2026.","answerText":"The Department is continuing to work on budget plans for years beyond 2025/26, including provisions for the Supporting People Programme. At present, funding for future periods has not yet been agreed and remains subject to confirmation.","answerHtml":"The Department is continuing to work on budget plans for years beyond 2025/26, including provisions for the Supporting People Programme. At present, funding for future periods has not yet been agreed and remains subject to confirmation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036929%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462717","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462717"}},{"id":"462716","reference":"AQW 36928/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-05","answerBy":"2025-12-22","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 to detail (i) his assessment of the Participation and the Practice of Rights policy brief, published on 1 December 2025, on the Fundamental Review of Allocations of Social Housing; and (ii) how he will ensure this is taken into consideration the Housing Executive in its review of the points system.","answerText":"I have been clear that we must deliver on the Programme for Government commitment to increase the supply of social homes, but we must also ensure that our allocation system prioritises households in greatest objective need. The Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations underwent full public consultation and equality impact assessment and all proposals were supported. Implementation of the agreed changes has included ongoing stakeholder engagement, led by the Housing Executive, to inform implementation. My officials have analysed the brief referred to and continue to work with the Housing Executive on implementation of the remaining recommendations.\n\nMy officials work closely with the Housing Executive to ensure that all evidence-based stakeholder contributions are considered through established consultation and evidence-gathering processes when preparing to implement the recommendations. This evidence is considered by my Department in respect of each recommendation.","answerHtml":"I have been clear that we must deliver on the Programme for Government commitment to increase the supply of social homes, but we must also ensure that our allocation system prioritises households in greatest objective need. The Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations underwent full public consultation and equality impact assessment and all proposals were supported. Implementation of the agreed changes has included ongoing stakeholder engagement, led by the Housing Executive, to inform implementation. My officials have analysed the brief referred to and continue to work with the Housing Executive on implementation of the remaining recommendations.
My officials work closely with the Housing Executive to ensure that all evidence-based stakeholder contributions are considered through established consultation and evidence-gathering processes when preparing to implement the recommendations. This evidence is considered by my Department in respect of each recommendation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036928%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462716","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462716"}},{"id":"462074","reference":"AQW 36646/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-02","answerBy":"2025-12-17","answered":"2026-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, given the success of the New Foundations programme in delivering cross-departmental collaboration, to detail any steps his Department plans to take to ensure this approach continues, and is expanded to reduce homelessness.","answerText":"My officials will continue to work closely with other departments to explore opportunities for meaningful joint working and to enhance cross-departmental collaboration such as that which delivered New Foundations.","answerHtml":"My officials will continue to work closely with other departments to explore opportunities for meaningful joint working and to enhance cross-departmental collaboration such as that which delivered New Foundations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036646%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462074","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462074"}},{"id":"462073","reference":"AQW 36645/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-02","answerBy":"2025-12-17","answered":"2026-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the bid his Department has put in to the multi-year budget to fund New Foundations over the next three years.","answerText":"My Department has allocated £3m to the Housing Executive for the New Foundations programme in 2025/26. Work on budget profiling beyond 2025/26 is continuing, and funding remains to be confirmed.","answerHtml":"My Department has allocated £3m to the Housing Executive for the New Foundations programme in 2025/26. Work on budget profiling beyond 2025/26 is continuing, and funding remains to be confirmed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036645%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462073","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462073"}},{"id":"462072","reference":"AQW 36644/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-02","answerBy":"2025-12-17","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 any steps he is taking to ensure (i) the Housing First model will be incorporated into his Department’s homelessness prevention policy; and (ii) that suitable investment will be provided in the multi-year budget.","answerText":"The Housing First model is incorporated in the Housing Executive Homelessness Strategy 2022-27, available via https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/73313718-aa0e-4aae-b122-6573dcab88c7/Ending-Homelessness-Together-Homelessness-Strategy-2022-27.pdf. The Housing Executive has recently published a report ‘Housing First Feasibility Study: Expansion of Services in Northern Ireland’, which is available via https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/6820a1fd-f47e-4119-812b-bdd639b68c62/Housing-First-Feasibility-Study-December-2025.pdf.\n\nWork on budget profiling beyond 2025 / 26 is continuing, and funding remains to be confirmed.\n\nI will continue to make the case for increased funding for Housing and Homelessness prevention.","answerHtml":"The Housing First model is incorporated in the Housing Executive Homelessness Strategy 2022-27, available via https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/73313718-aa0e-4aae-b122-6573dcab88c7/Ending-Homelessness-Together-Homelessness-Strategy-2022-27.pdf. The Housing Executive has recently published a report ‘Housing First Feasibility Study: Expansion of Services in Northern Ireland’, which is available via https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/6820a1fd-f47e-4119-812b-bdd639b68c62/Housing-First-Feasibility-Study-December-2025.pdf.
Work on budget profiling beyond 2025 / 26 is continuing, and funding remains to be confirmed.
I will continue to make the case for increased funding for Housing and Homelessness prevention.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036644%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462072","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462072"}},{"id":"462071","reference":"AQW 36643/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-02","answerBy":"2025-12-17","answered":"2026-01-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any discussions he has had with (i) the Minister for Finance; and (ii) the Executive, to request any Barnett Consequential funding resulting from the energy support budget allocated in Great Britain, to help families living in fuel poverty in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Tackling empty homes is a priority for my Department as part of its wider work to increase housing supply, support regeneration and improve outcomes for communities. My officials are taking forward work to identify potential policy interventions that could be utilised in Northern Ireland to bring vacant properties back into use.\n\nMy officials have engaged with their colleagues in the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and the Department of Finance (DoF) in support of this work.","answerHtml":"Tackling empty homes is a priority for my Department as part of its wider work to increase housing supply, support regeneration and improve outcomes for communities. My officials are taking forward work to identify potential policy interventions that could be utilised in Northern Ireland to bring vacant properties back into use.
My officials have engaged with their colleagues in the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and the Department of Finance (DoF) in support of this work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036643%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462071","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462071"}},{"id":"462070","reference":"AQW 36642/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-02","answerBy":"2025-12-17","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 to detail (i) the reason Housing First has not moved forward in Northern Ireland, since the 2012 report by the Housing Executive; and (ii) any steps he will take to overcome barriers to move the policy forward.","answerText":"Housing First has been operating on a small scale in Northern Ireland since 2013, funded by the Housing Executive’s Supporting People Programme with the support of DePaul and Simon Community. Expansion of Housing First is included in the Housing Executive Homelessness Strategy 2022-27.\n\nIncreased housing supply is vital to supporting this model, as outlined in the Housing First Feasibility Study, available via:\n\nhttps://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/6820a1fd-f47e-4119-812b-bdd639b68c62/Housing-First-Feasibility-Study-December-2025.pdf\n\nMy Department will work, in collaboration with other Departments and the Housing Executive, to address the constraints identified in this Feasibility Study.","answerHtml":"Housing First has been operating on a small scale in Northern Ireland since 2013, funded by the Housing Executive’s Supporting People Programme with the support of DePaul and Simon Community. Expansion of Housing First is included in the Housing Executive Homelessness Strategy 2022-27.
Increased housing supply is vital to supporting this model, as outlined in the Housing First Feasibility Study, available via:
https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/6820a1fd-f47e-4119-812b-bdd639b68c62/Housing-First-Feasibility-Study-December-2025.pdf
My Department will work, in collaboration with other Departments and the Housing Executive, to address the constraints identified in this Feasibility Study.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036642%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=462070","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=462070"}},{"id":"461883","reference":"AQW 36560/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-01","answerBy":"2025-12-16","answered":"2026-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the proposed governance structure for the New Foundations Pilot Programme; and (ii) any (a) community; and (b) voluntary sector, organisations that will be involved in the programme.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The governance arrangements for the New Foundations programme are currently under development and, subject to approval, will incorporate consideration of appropriate community and voluntary sector involvement.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The governance arrangements for the New Foundations programme are currently under development and, subject to approval, will incorporate consideration of appropriate community and voluntary sector involvement.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036560%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461883","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461883"}},{"id":"461882","reference":"AQW 36559/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-01","answerBy":"2025-12-16","answered":"2026-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail where the properties being bought through the New Foundations programme will be based.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:“The specific locations of properties to be acquired under the New Foundations Programme is yet to be finalised.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:“The specific locations of properties to be acquired under the New Foundations Programme is yet to be finalised.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036559%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461882","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461882"}},{"id":"461881","reference":"AQW 36558/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-01","answerBy":"2025-12-16","answered":"2026-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of young people who will be supported through the New Foundations programme, in its first year.","answerText":"The New Foundations programme aims to have secured 30 units of accommodation along with tailored support packages in the first year.","answerHtml":"The New Foundations programme aims to have secured 30 units of accommodation along with tailored support packages in the first year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036558%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461881","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461881"}},{"id":"461880","reference":"AQW 36557/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-01","answerBy":"2025-12-16","answered":"2025-12-09","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 detail the number of small businesses in Strangford that have availed of support from Invest NI, in the past five years.","answerText":"Invest NI reports its performance on a financial year basis with the year ending 31st March 2025 being the most recent available. Over the period 1st April 2020 to the 31st March 2025 Invest NI has supported 148 businesses within the Strangford Parliamentary Constituency area, 127 (86%) of these were small businesses.\n\nIn addition to financial assistance, Invest NI also provides wider support to all businesses through advice, assistance or guidance from our staff and through nibusinessinfo.co.uk, our online business advice portal.","answerHtml":"Invest NI reports its performance on a financial year basis with the year ending 31st March 2025 being the most recent available. Over the period 1st April 2020 to the 31st March 2025 Invest NI has supported 148 businesses within the Strangford Parliamentary Constituency area, 127 (86%) of these were small businesses.
In addition to financial assistance, Invest NI also provides wider support to all businesses through advice, assistance or guidance from our staff and through nibusinessinfo.co.uk, our online business advice portal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036557%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461880","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461880"}},{"id":"461879","reference":"AQW 36556/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-12-01","answerBy":"2025-12-16","answered":"2025-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any progress made to ban the advertisement of all types of vapes (i) near schools; and (ii) by confectionary retailers.","answerText":"Advertising of nicotine vapes is restricted in the UK, under the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016, which makes it is unlawful to advertise nicotine-containing products in a manner that promotes their use or appeals to children. There are currently no restrictions on the advertising of non-nicotine vapes and other nicotine products such as pouches.\n\nUnder the Tobacco Advertising and Promotion (Display) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012 and The Tobacco Advertising and Promotion (Display of Prices) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012, it is illegal to display tobacco products and the prices of tobacco products, in the course of business in Northern Ireland. However, there are no current restrictions on the display of vaping or other nicotine products in retail settings.\n\nThis will be addressed by the UK-wide Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which is currently progressing through Parliament. The Bill, which has the support of the NI Assembly, aims to address the current gaps in legislation, by banning the advertising and sponsorship of all vape and nicotine products and by providing powers to regulate flavours and packaging, to reduce their appeal to children. The Bill will also introduce regulation-making powers to prohibit point of sale displays for vapes and other nicotine products. It is expected that the Bill will progress to the House of Lords Report Stage in early 2026.","answerHtml":"Advertising of nicotine vapes is restricted in the UK, under the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016, which makes it is unlawful to advertise nicotine-containing products in a manner that promotes their use or appeals to children. There are currently no restrictions on the advertising of non-nicotine vapes and other nicotine products such as pouches.
Under the Tobacco Advertising and Promotion (Display) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012 and The Tobacco Advertising and Promotion (Display of Prices) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012, it is illegal to display tobacco products and the prices of tobacco products, in the course of business in Northern Ireland. However, there are no current restrictions on the display of vaping or other nicotine products in retail settings.
This will be addressed by the UK-wide Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which is currently progressing through Parliament. The Bill, which has the support of the NI Assembly, aims to address the current gaps in legislation, by banning the advertising and sponsorship of all vape and nicotine products and by providing powers to regulate flavours and packaging, to reduce their appeal to children. The Bill will also introduce regulation-making powers to prohibit point of sale displays for vapes and other nicotine products. It is expected that the Bill will progress to the House of Lords Report Stage in early 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036556%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461879","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461879"}},{"id":"461681","reference":"AQW 36493/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-28","answerBy":"2025-12-15","answered":"2025-12-15","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 detail any actions her Department is taking to transition Northern Ireland away from the dependence on fossil fuels through (i) her work with businesses; (ii) improvements and expansion of the electricity grid; and (iii) attracting investment to deliver programmes, such as a retrofit roll-out across all tenures.","answerText":"My Department leads on the Energy Strategy - The Path to Net Zero Energy, which continues to progress the transition away from fossil fuels towards self-sufficiency in affordable renewable energy and net zero emissions by 2050.\n\n(i) Supporting Businesses:\n\nThe Business and Industrial Processes sector plan, included in the draft Climate Action Plan (CAP) published in June 2025, sets out the policies and proposals to support businesses’ transition away from fossil fuels. These include fuel switching, electrification, and resource and energy efficiency measures. One key policy is Invest NI’s Energy and Resource Efficiency Programme, funded by my Department, which provides financial support to businesses to implement resource efficiency, energy efficiency, and decarbonisation measures within their operations.\n\n(ii) Grid Improvements and Expansion:\n\nOn 26 November 2025, I published a decision paper on fairer grid connection costs. This decision will remove unfairness and enable homes and businesses to connect to the grid at a fair price, encouraging new investment in low carbon technologies and renewables. The Utility Regulator will work to modify NIE Networks’ licence, with a new statement of connection charges to be published in the new year and changes taking effect in the first half of 2026.\n\nThe North South Interconnector remains a strategic priority for my Department, essential for lowering costs for electricity consumers, strengthening grid reliability, and enabling greater integration of renewables. Construction began in late 2024, with estimated completion in 2031.\n\nSmart meters will provide electricity consumers with the opportunity to lower their bills and support renewable integration. Following public consultation, my officials have analysed stakeholder feedback and are working with the Utility Regulator and NIE Networks on a project plan for delivery. Procurement is planned for 2026, with first installations in 2027.\n\nA Grid Development Monitoring Group has been established by my Department, including the Utility Regulator, SONI, and NIE Networks, to monitor delivery of network developments, identify barriers, and accelerate progress on grid upgrades.\n\n(iii) Attracting Investment and Retrofit Programmes:\n\nMy Department is developing a Net Zero Accelerator Fund (NZAF) to support local enterprises in accelerating projects that contribute to emissions reduction targets and to act as a catalyst for attracting and complementing private investment in the green economy.\n\nEarlier this year, my Department consulted on future support for low carbon heating in residential properties. Officials are finalising analysis of responses to inform policy decisions, including heat pump installations and future scheme design for energy efficiency measures and low carbon heat. This year, I have allocated just over £2m of additional funding into NISEP to support low-income households to install energy efficiency measures this winter, building on previous years’ work which will have delivered measures into over 2,500 homes by March 2026.","answerHtml":"My Department leads on the Energy Strategy - The Path to Net Zero Energy, which continues to progress the transition away from fossil fuels towards self-sufficiency in affordable renewable energy and net zero emissions by 2050.
(i) Supporting Businesses:
The Business and Industrial Processes sector plan, included in the draft Climate Action Plan (CAP) published in June 2025, sets out the policies and proposals to support businesses’ transition away from fossil fuels. These include fuel switching, electrification, and resource and energy efficiency measures. One key policy is Invest NI’s Energy and Resource Efficiency Programme, funded by my Department, which provides financial support to businesses to implement resource efficiency, energy efficiency, and decarbonisation measures within their operations.
(ii) Grid Improvements and Expansion:
On 26 November 2025, I published a decision paper on fairer grid connection costs. This decision will remove unfairness and enable homes and businesses to connect to the grid at a fair price, encouraging new investment in low carbon technologies and renewables. The Utility Regulator will work to modify NIE Networks’ licence, with a new statement of connection charges to be published in the new year and changes taking effect in the first half of 2026.
The North South Interconnector remains a strategic priority for my Department, essential for lowering costs for electricity consumers, strengthening grid reliability, and enabling greater integration of renewables. Construction began in late 2024, with estimated completion in 2031.
Smart meters will provide electricity consumers with the opportunity to lower their bills and support renewable integration. Following public consultation, my officials have analysed stakeholder feedback and are working with the Utility Regulator and NIE Networks on a project plan for delivery. Procurement is planned for 2026, with first installations in 2027.
A Grid Development Monitoring Group has been established by my Department, including the Utility Regulator, SONI, and NIE Networks, to monitor delivery of network developments, identify barriers, and accelerate progress on grid upgrades.
(iii) Attracting Investment and Retrofit Programmes:
My Department is developing a Net Zero Accelerator Fund (NZAF) to support local enterprises in accelerating projects that contribute to emissions reduction targets and to act as a catalyst for attracting and complementing private investment in the green economy.
Earlier this year, my Department consulted on future support for low carbon heating in residential properties. Officials are finalising analysis of responses to inform policy decisions, including heat pump installations and future scheme design for energy efficiency measures and low carbon heat. This year, I have allocated just over £2m of additional funding into NISEP to support low-income households to install energy efficiency measures this winter, building on previous years’ work which will have delivered measures into over 2,500 homes by March 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036493%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461681","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461681"}},{"id":"461680","reference":"AQW 36492/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-28","answerBy":"2025-12-15","answered":"2025-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the actions her Department is taking to transition Northern Ireland away from the dependence on fossil fuels through; (ii) alternative fuels in public transport; (iii) further development of the electric vehicle charging network; and (iv) updates to planning to modernise requirements to meet climate change objectives.","answerText":"The actions my Department is taking to decarbonise the transport sector are outlined in the draft Climate Action Plan and focus on three policies.\n\nThe ‘Switching Fuels’ policy is key to reducing dependence on fossil fuels in the transport sector. The ‘Shift’ policy aims to reduce vehicle emissions by shifting modes of transport away from private car journeys to sustainable travel alternatives, including public transport. The ‘Reduce’ policy considers the role of the planning system.\n\nMy Department continues to support the ongoing decarbonisation of Translink’s bus fleet and provided funding of £66m to enable Translink to purchase 145 zero and low emission buses. A further £88m was provided in 2022 for the purchase of an additional 100 zero emission buses and associated EV charging infrastructure. My Department has also supported investment of approximately £19.2m in hydrogen bus technology.\n\nThe provision and operation of publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure is a commercially led activity in the North. Major EV infrastructure providers, understanding the commercial benefits available, are making significant investments in developing EV Infrastructure that meets both current and future need. My Department has also provided funding to support the further development of the EV charging network, including match-funding for a Local Council consortium (9 councils) application to the Office for Zero community-based’s On Street Residential Charge Point Scheme to install 250 charging points and support for funding through the Shared Island Initiative, including the Sports Club EV Charge Point Scheme to rollout community based charging points at 48 sports clubs and the Green Hydrogen Refuelling Corridor project in collaboration with the Department of Transport. In addition to financial support, my Department has also been trailing EV charging solutions for residents without driveways to allow safe cable routing across footways.\n\nMy third key transport decarbonisation policy aims to reduce vehicle emissions by reducing the need and length of journeys. I recently consulted on my Draft Transport Strategy 2035 which covers the key role of the planning system in supporting transport policies and the integration of transport and land use planning. Responses to the consultation are currently being considered.\n\nThe planning system also has a role to play in supporting the wider efforts of government in contributing to climate requirements. For example, my Department recently published on 11 December 2025 a revision to the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) on the subject of renewable and low carbon energy. This new policy framework can help enable appropriate development and associated infrastructure that can make a positive contribution towards reducing emissions and decarbonising energy use across the region in the long-term public interest. Furthermore, last year my Department undertook a Call for Evidence on a potential focused review of the SPPS in relation to climate change and the responses received will help to inform the next steps which are currently being considered.","answerHtml":"The actions my Department is taking to decarbonise the transport sector are outlined in the draft Climate Action Plan and focus on three policies.
The ‘Switching Fuels’ policy is key to reducing dependence on fossil fuels in the transport sector. The ‘Shift’ policy aims to reduce vehicle emissions by shifting modes of transport away from private car journeys to sustainable travel alternatives, including public transport. The ‘Reduce’ policy considers the role of the planning system.
My Department continues to support the ongoing decarbonisation of Translink’s bus fleet and provided funding of £66m to enable Translink to purchase 145 zero and low emission buses. A further £88m was provided in 2022 for the purchase of an additional 100 zero emission buses and associated EV charging infrastructure. My Department has also supported investment of approximately £19.2m in hydrogen bus technology.
The provision and operation of publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure is a commercially led activity in the North. Major EV infrastructure providers, understanding the commercial benefits available, are making significant investments in developing EV Infrastructure that meets both current and future need. My Department has also provided funding to support the further development of the EV charging network, including match-funding for a Local Council consortium (9 councils) application to the Office for Zero community-based’s On Street Residential Charge Point Scheme to install 250 charging points and support for funding through the Shared Island Initiative, including the Sports Club EV Charge Point Scheme to rollout community based charging points at 48 sports clubs and the Green Hydrogen Refuelling Corridor project in collaboration with the Department of Transport. In addition to financial support, my Department has also been trailing EV charging solutions for residents without driveways to allow safe cable routing across footways.
My third key transport decarbonisation policy aims to reduce vehicle emissions by reducing the need and length of journeys. I recently consulted on my Draft Transport Strategy 2035 which covers the key role of the planning system in supporting transport policies and the integration of transport and land use planning. Responses to the consultation are currently being considered.
The planning system also has a role to play in supporting the wider efforts of government in contributing to climate requirements. For example, my Department recently published on 11 December 2025 a revision to the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) on the subject of renewable and low carbon energy. This new policy framework can help enable appropriate development and associated infrastructure that can make a positive contribution towards reducing emissions and decarbonising energy use across the region in the long-term public interest. Furthermore, last year my Department undertook a Call for Evidence on a potential focused review of the SPPS in relation to climate change and the responses received will help to inform the next steps which are currently being considered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036492%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461680","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461680"}},{"id":"461679","reference":"AQW 36491/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-28","answerBy":"2025-12-15","answered":"2025-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any steps his Department can take to assist Northern Irelands transition away from its dependence on fossil fuels through; (i) reducing carbon emissions; and (b) increasing the use of renewable energy, across the Northern Ireland Civil Service estate.","answerText":"The Department of Finance (DoF) office estate represents less than 1% of the built assets recorded on the Government Land and Property Register and, as such, has a minimal impact on the total public sector energy usage. That said, I am determined that my Department does everything possible to reduce carbon emissions and increase the use of renewable energy across the estate.\n\nDoF is currently progressing an ambitious Office Estate Strategy, Phase 1 of which is aimed at ‘right sizing’ our portfolio by reducing the in-scope footprint by approximately 40% by 2028. Up to the 31 March 2024, energy consumption across the estate had been reduced by 12,287,443 kWh.\n\nPhase 2 of the Strategy aims to deliver a greener, modern NICS Office Estate by 2035. This will be achieved through improved energy efficiency in our retained estate and establishing signature regional buildings to enable staff to work in offices closer to home, reducing travel time and associated emissions, while helping promote regional balance.\n\nIn addition, a number of projects have also been initiated that aim to reduce carbon emissions. LED lighting has been installed in many buildings across the estate, which use significantly less energy and has a longer lifespan. In April 2025, the natural gas powered plant used for heating/cooling in Lanyon Plaza, one of our larger buildings, were replaced with electrically driven units.\n\nConsolidation projects in Omagh, Ballymena and the Coleraine areas are also aligned with the Departments net zero ambitions which will involve recovering roofs, replacing windows, upgrading the mechanical and electrical systems as well as lining exterior walls all of which will improve the ‘U’ value, a measure of how well a material or building component (like a wall, window, or roof) insulates against heat loss, making the buildings more energy efficient.\n\nOn the Stormont Estate, procurement is underway to deliver a 400kVA photovoltaic installation by 2027, which will provide renewable energy to the DoF managed buildings. At Castle Buildings, a refurbishment project is ongoing that will include the replacement of the roof at Block B with enhanced insulation to meet net zero standards. Work has also been initiated to investigate and develop options to upgrade both the Castle Buildings exterior “envelope” and systems, to move to net zero standards.\n\nMy Department is also commencing the procurement of a carbon baselining exercise for the retained Office Estate. This will help inform and enable additional efficiency projects with a view to further reducing energy usage and de-carbonising our offices.\n\nFor the longer term, my Department has been supporting the Department for the Economy in a pilot project to investigate the potential future application of shallow geothermal technology to provide sustainable low carbon renewable heating and cooling systems. It is hoped that this will inform the potential for a future geothermal heat network to replace fossil fuel heating systems at some buildings on the Stormont Estate, as well as helping to reduce and stabilise our energy costs. This work will also improve our understanding of the contribution that geothermal energy might make in decarbonising how we heat our buildings generally and help inform future projects in the public and private sectors and in domestic settings.","answerHtml":"The Department of Finance (DoF) office estate represents less than 1% of the built assets recorded on the Government Land and Property Register and, as such, has a minimal impact on the total public sector energy usage. That said, I am determined that my Department does everything possible to reduce carbon emissions and increase the use of renewable energy across the estate.
DoF is currently progressing an ambitious Office Estate Strategy, Phase 1 of which is aimed at ‘right sizing’ our portfolio by reducing the in-scope footprint by approximately 40% by 2028. Up to the 31 March 2024, energy consumption across the estate had been reduced by 12,287,443 kWh.
Phase 2 of the Strategy aims to deliver a greener, modern NICS Office Estate by 2035. This will be achieved through improved energy efficiency in our retained estate and establishing signature regional buildings to enable staff to work in offices closer to home, reducing travel time and associated emissions, while helping promote regional balance.
In addition, a number of projects have also been initiated that aim to reduce carbon emissions. LED lighting has been installed in many buildings across the estate, which use significantly less energy and has a longer lifespan. In April 2025, the natural gas powered plant used for heating/cooling in Lanyon Plaza, one of our larger buildings, were replaced with electrically driven units.
Consolidation projects in Omagh, Ballymena and the Coleraine areas are also aligned with the Departments net zero ambitions which will involve recovering roofs, replacing windows, upgrading the mechanical and electrical systems as well as lining exterior walls all of which will improve the ‘U’ value, a measure of how well a material or building component (like a wall, window, or roof) insulates against heat loss, making the buildings more energy efficient.
On the Stormont Estate, procurement is underway to deliver a 400kVA photovoltaic installation by 2027, which will provide renewable energy to the DoF managed buildings. At Castle Buildings, a refurbishment project is ongoing that will include the replacement of the roof at Block B with enhanced insulation to meet net zero standards. Work has also been initiated to investigate and develop options to upgrade both the Castle Buildings exterior “envelope” and systems, to move to net zero standards.
My Department is also commencing the procurement of a carbon baselining exercise for the retained Office Estate. This will help inform and enable additional efficiency projects with a view to further reducing energy usage and de-carbonising our offices.
For the longer term, my Department has been supporting the Department for the Economy in a pilot project to investigate the potential future application of shallow geothermal technology to provide sustainable low carbon renewable heating and cooling systems. It is hoped that this will inform the potential for a future geothermal heat network to replace fossil fuel heating systems at some buildings on the Stormont Estate, as well as helping to reduce and stabilise our energy costs. This work will also improve our understanding of the contribution that geothermal energy might make in decarbonising how we heat our buildings generally and help inform future projects in the public and private sectors and in domestic settings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036491%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461679"}},{"id":"461678","reference":"AQW 36490/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-28","answerBy":"2025-12-15","answered":"2025-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to detail any strategy to (i) transition Parliament Buildings away from dependence on fossil fuels; and (ii) further increase production of renewable energy on site.","answerText":"The Assembly Commission’s Sustainable Development Office continues to work with partners to progress the transition of Parliament Buildings away from dependence on fossil fuels. As part of a framework agreement with DoF, all of the electricity used within Parliament Buildings is generated from renewable energy sources. In addition, officials are in collaboration with the Department for the Economy on the development of geothermal technology across the wider Stormont Estate and the investigation of potential low-carbon heating options for Parliament Buildings. These explorations form part of the Assembly Commission’s wider sustainability work aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuel–based systems.\n\nThe Assembly Commission has implemented a range of measures to reduce its carbon footprint. Due to the limited land within the Assembly Commission’s curtilage, the scope for installing large-scale renewable technologies on site is restricted. However, the Assembly Commission has already installed photovoltaic panels, solar thermal tubes and rainwater-harvesting systems, and continues to keep opportunities for additional on-site renewable energy generation under review.","answerHtml":"The Assembly Commission’s Sustainable Development Office continues to work with partners to progress the transition of Parliament Buildings away from dependence on fossil fuels. As part of a framework agreement with DoF, all of the electricity used within Parliament Buildings is generated from renewable energy sources. In addition, officials are in collaboration with the Department for the Economy on the development of geothermal technology across the wider Stormont Estate and the investigation of potential low-carbon heating options for Parliament Buildings. These explorations form part of the Assembly Commission’s wider sustainability work aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuel–based systems.
The Assembly Commission has implemented a range of measures to reduce its carbon footprint. Due to the limited land within the Assembly Commission’s curtilage, the scope for installing large-scale renewable technologies on site is restricted. However, the Assembly Commission has already installed photovoltaic panels, solar thermal tubes and rainwater-harvesting systems, and continues to keep opportunities for additional on-site renewable energy generation under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036490%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461678"}},{"id":"461544","reference":"AQW 36409/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-27","answerBy":"2025-12-12","answered":"2026-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) whether he will provide copies of any written communications between Hospitality Ulster and his Department, including those sent (a) directly to him; (b) to his Private Office; (c) to any person working in his Department; and (d) to his Special Advisor, with respect to the University of Stirling’s Independent Review of the Liquor Licensing system in Northern Ireland including the Surrender Principle; and (ii) their subsequent recommendations.","answerText":"Any request my Department receives to release information will be considered on a case-by-case basis.","answerHtml":"Any request my Department receives to release information will be 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%2036409%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461544","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461544"}},{"id":"461335","reference":"AQW 36330/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-26","answerBy":"2025-12-11","answered":"2026-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will provide a copy of the minutes of any meetings he has had with Hospitality Ulster, where he discussed the University of Stirling's recommendations following the Report of the Independent Review of the Liquor Licensing system in Northern Ireland including the Surrender Principle, to include the (i) dates; and (ii) locations, of the meetings; and (iii) attendees positions within his Department.","answerText":"Any request my Department receives to release information will be considered on a case-by-case basis.","answerHtml":"Any request my Department receives to release information will be 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%2036330%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461335","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461335"}},{"id":"461334","reference":"AQW 36329/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-26","answerBy":"2025-12-11","answered":"2026-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any discussions his Department has had with other Departments to ensure the Fair Funding Principles contained within the new Partnership Agreement between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector in Northern Ireland will be adhered to.","answerText":"My Department supports engagement on the Partnership Agreement and Fair Funding Principles through the Joint Forum, which includes representatives from all Government Departments who are fully aware and engaged. While my Department facilitates the Forum, responsibility for applying the Fair Funding Principles rests with individual Departments.\n\nThe Joint Forum has a key role in ensuring the principles are communicated and understood. Cross-sectoral working groups set up through the Joint Forum are now progressing key priorities, including a communications plan as well as developing an evaluation framework and reporting mechanism.","answerHtml":"My Department supports engagement on the Partnership Agreement and Fair Funding Principles through the Joint Forum, which includes representatives from all Government Departments who are fully aware and engaged. While my Department facilitates the Forum, responsibility for applying the Fair Funding Principles rests with individual Departments.
The Joint Forum has a key role in ensuring the principles are communicated and understood. Cross-sectoral working groups set up through the Joint Forum are now progressing key priorities, including a communications plan as well as developing an evaluation framework and reporting mechanism.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036329%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461334","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461334"}},{"id":"461333","reference":"AQW 36328/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-26","answerBy":"2025-12-11","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 when (i) the objections process will be reviewed; (ii) a consultation will be carried out; and (iii) any updates or changes will be made, as indicated in his statement on the Independent Review of the Liquor Licensing system in Northern Ireland including the Surrender Principle, on 18 November 2025.","answerText":"In my response to the Report of the Independent Review of the Liquor Licensing System in Northern Ireland, I stated that my officials will work with key stakeholders and relevant delivery partners to establish the scale of any potential problem, and if necessary, explore potential solutions. The need for consultation, any potential future changes, and the timing of such, will be determined by the outcome of that process.","answerHtml":"In my response to the Report of the Independent Review of the Liquor Licensing System in Northern Ireland, I stated that my officials will work with key stakeholders and relevant delivery partners to establish the scale of any potential problem, and if necessary, explore potential solutions. The need for consultation, any potential future changes, and the timing of such, will be determined by the outcome of that process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036328%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461333","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461333"}},{"id":"461332","reference":"AQW 36327/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-26","answerBy":"2025-12-11","answered":"2025-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will review the legislation and regulations, to enable DFI Roads to install disabled bays outside pharmacies located along the roadside as standard, rather than requiring an application.","answerText":"My Department’s powers to provide parking places are set out in Articles 10 and 13 of the Road Traffic Regulation (Northern Ireland) Order 1997.\n\nComprehensive guidance on requests for accessible parking bays for businesses, including the relevant application criteria, is provided in RSPPG E056: Provision of Parking Places RSPPG E056.\n\nThe application process is a key part of this policy to ensure that the context and constraints for each location are fully considered. As such my Department has no current plans to review the legislation or regulations to permit the provision of accessible parking bays outside pharmacies or other businesses without the completion of an application.","answerHtml":"My Department’s powers to provide parking places are set out in Articles 10 and 13 of the Road Traffic Regulation (Northern Ireland) Order 1997.
Comprehensive guidance on requests for accessible parking bays for businesses, including the relevant application criteria, is provided in RSPPG E056: Provision of Parking Places RSPPG E056.
The application process is a key part of this policy to ensure that the context and constraints for each location are fully considered. As such my Department has no current plans to review the legislation or regulations to permit the provision of accessible parking bays outside pharmacies or other businesses without the completion of an application.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036327%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461332","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461332"}},{"id":"461331","reference":"AQW 36326/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-26","answerBy":"2025-12-11","answered":"2025-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will review legislation and regulations to enable Department funded Community Transport operators to collect and drop off passengers in Translink operated bus stations, to enable improved connectivity and multi-modal transport opportunities.","answerText":"The policy for access to stations is operated by Translink is set out in the Public Service Agreement (PSA) between Translink and my Department. This allows eligible operators of public passenger transport services to request access to Translink stations in line with these procedures.\n\nWhilst I recognise the importance of community transport and how it can contribute to multi modal transport opportunities, there is no plan to review this section of the PSA, or legislation, to enable organisations, grant funded by my department, to collect and drop off passengers in Translink operated bus stations at present. However, this can be kept under consideration when the PSA is reviewed.","answerHtml":"The policy for access to stations is operated by Translink is set out in the Public Service Agreement (PSA) between Translink and my Department. This allows eligible operators of public passenger transport services to request access to Translink stations in line with these procedures.
Whilst I recognise the importance of community transport and how it can contribute to multi modal transport opportunities, there is no plan to review this section of the PSA, or legislation, to enable organisations, grant funded by my department, to collect and drop off passengers in Translink operated bus stations at present. However, this can be kept under consideration when the PSA is reviewed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036326%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461331","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461331"}},{"id":"461119","reference":"AQW 36239/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-25","answerBy":"2025-12-10","answered":"2025-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any actions she will take to (i) ensure all sections and divisions within her Department use the spelling of Cloughey, for the village on the Ards Peninsula Irish Sea coast, and (ii) stop the use of and replace signs, with the incorrect spelling of Cloghy and Cloughy.","answerText":"My officials advise that they are aware of several older directional signs that use the spelling Cloghy.\n\nAs the Member will be aware, my Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government and limited budget resources mean we must prioritise our interventions to those locations deemed most in need. For this reason, the spelling will be amended as and when signage comes to the end of its natural life and is in need of replacement.","answerHtml":"My officials advise that they are aware of several older directional signs that use the spelling Cloghy.
As the Member will be aware, my Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government and limited budget resources mean we must prioritise our interventions to those locations deemed most in need. For this reason, the spelling will be amended as and when signage comes to the end of its natural life and is in need of replacement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036239%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461119","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461119"}},{"id":"461118","reference":"AQW 36238/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-25","answerBy":"2025-12-10","answered":"2025-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to provide a copy of the evaluation or rationale, explaining why the proposal to replace the Strangford Ferry with a bridge, was not previously considered.","answerText":"The 2013 Strategic Review of the Strangford Lough Ferry Service considered alternative proposals to the ferry service, including the option of a bridge however, the review concluded a bridge was not an economically viable solution. The subsequent business case for the replacement of MV Strangford did not consider the provision of a bridge given that its central objective was to enable the Strangford Lough Ferry Service to continue to operate the current scheduled service.\n\nThe Strangford Lough Ferry Service operates every day of the year except Christmas day, from early morning to late-night serving both the local community and local tourism through the provision of a reliable service and is considered the most economical transportation link between Strangford and Portaferry.","answerHtml":"The 2013 Strategic Review of the Strangford Lough Ferry Service considered alternative proposals to the ferry service, including the option of a bridge however, the review concluded a bridge was not an economically viable solution. The subsequent business case for the replacement of MV Strangford did not consider the provision of a bridge given that its central objective was to enable the Strangford Lough Ferry Service to continue to operate the current scheduled service.
The Strangford Lough Ferry Service operates every day of the year except Christmas day, from early morning to late-night serving both the local community and local tourism through the provision of a reliable service and is considered the most economical transportation link between Strangford and Portaferry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036238%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461118","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461118"}},{"id":"461117","reference":"AQW 36237/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-25","answerBy":"2025-12-10","answered":"2025-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail why the option to build a bridge over Strangford Lough was rejected during business case consideration, before the last ferry was purchased.","answerText":"The 2013 Strategic Review of the Strangford Lough Ferry Service considered alternative proposals to the ferry service, including the option of a bridge however, the review concluded a bridge was not an economically viable solution. The subsequent business case for the replacement of MV Strangford did not consider the provision of a bridge given that its central objective was to enable the Strangford Lough Ferry Service to continue to operate the current scheduled service.\n\nThe Strangford Lough Ferry Service operates every day of the year except Christmas day, from early morning to late-night serving both the local community and local tourism through the provision of a reliable service and is considered the most economical transportation link between Strangford and Portaferry.","answerHtml":"The 2013 Strategic Review of the Strangford Lough Ferry Service considered alternative proposals to the ferry service, including the option of a bridge however, the review concluded a bridge was not an economically viable solution. The subsequent business case for the replacement of MV Strangford did not consider the provision of a bridge given that its central objective was to enable the Strangford Lough Ferry Service to continue to operate the current scheduled service.
The Strangford Lough Ferry Service operates every day of the year except Christmas day, from early morning to late-night serving both the local community and local tourism through the provision of a reliable service and is considered the most economical transportation link between Strangford and Portaferry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036237%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461117","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461117"}},{"id":"461116","reference":"AQW 36236/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-25","answerBy":"2025-12-10","answered":"2025-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 33735/22-27, whether this is a review of the operation of existing permits or whether she is exploring the effectiveness of Section 10B permits, compared to other permits operated in GB.","answerText":"The review is looking at the operation of the existing permits processes, and will identify any potential changes which may be made to the current system. My Officials will shortly be providing me with a full report on their findings.","answerHtml":"The review is looking at the operation of the existing permits processes, and will identify any potential changes which may be made to the current system. My Officials will shortly be providing me with a full report on their findings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036236%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461116","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461116"}},{"id":"461115","reference":"AQW 36235/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-25","answerBy":"2025-12-10","answered":"2025-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any discussions she is having with independent breweries and local drinks producers, to develop opportunities to grow their business, both in Northern Ireland and for export.","answerText":"Invest NI provides a range of support to local drinks producers to help them grow and expand into export markets. This includes financial assistance for capital investment and market development, innovation and skills development, and non-financial assistance such as specialist advice, introductions to international buyers and promotional activity through a network of business development teams across 25 global markets.\n\nBy way of example, over the last three financial years (2021/22-2024/25) Invest NI has provided support totalling £5.13m to the sector, leveraging almost £30m of investment.\n\nIn addition, InterTradeIreland welcomes applications from businesses in the north within the Beverage Manufacturing sector and has a range of programmes to support their business growth through innovation, collaboration and by increasing cross-border sales. Since 2023, Intertrade Ireland has supported 22 beverage manufacturers based in the North through its programmes and events.","answerHtml":"Invest NI provides a range of support to local drinks producers to help them grow and expand into export markets. This includes financial assistance for capital investment and market development, innovation and skills development, and non-financial assistance such as specialist advice, introductions to international buyers and promotional activity through a network of business development teams across 25 global markets.
By way of example, over the last three financial years (2021/22-2024/25) Invest NI has provided support totalling £5.13m to the sector, leveraging almost £30m of investment.
In addition, InterTradeIreland welcomes applications from businesses in the north within the Beverage Manufacturing sector and has a range of programmes to support their business growth through innovation, collaboration and by increasing cross-border sales. Since 2023, Intertrade Ireland has supported 22 beverage manufacturers based in the North through its programmes and events.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036235%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=461115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=461115"}},{"id":"460824","reference":"AQW 36145/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-24","answerBy":"2025-12-09","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 (i) the number of employers who have signed up to the JobStart scheme, to date; and (ii) where current job opportunities are located, broken down by local council area.","answerText":"I am pleased to report that the volume of employers and job opportunities is growing every day. The following information is the position as of 30 November 2025:\n\n653 employer applications had been received.\n\nThe local council location of job opportunities advertised on JobApplyNI on that date is\n\nCouncil Area\tNo. of JobStart Opportunities\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t24\nArds and North Down\t38\nArmagh City Banbridge and Craigavon\t32\nBelfast\t172\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t31\nDerry City and Strabane\t86\nFermanagh and Omagh\t20\nLisburn and Castlereagh\t38\nMid and East Antrim\t32\nMid Ulster\t12\nNewry Mourne and Down\t35\nTotal\t520","answerHtml":"I am pleased to report that the volume of employers and job opportunities is growing every day. The following information is the position as of 30 November 2025:
653 employer applications had been received.
The local council location of job opportunities advertised on JobApplyNI on that date is
| Council Area | No. of JobStart Opportunities |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 24 |
| Ards and North Down | 38 |
| Armagh City Banbridge and Craigavon | 32 |
| Belfast | 172 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 31 |
| Derry City and Strabane | 86 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 20 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | 38 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 32 |
| Mid Ulster | 12 |
| Newry Mourne and Down | 35 |
| Total | 520 |
JobStart is open to employers from across all sectors who are encouraged to provide a wide range of diverse opportunities, enabling choice for participants whilst meeting the wider business needs of employers and the Northern Ireland economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036144%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=460823","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=460823"}},{"id":"460822","reference":"AQW 36143/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-24","answerBy":"2025-12-09","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, in the spirit of cross departmental working, whether he will consider extending the JobStart Scheme employer criteria to include jobs needed in (i) the education sector, such as (a) classroom assistants; and (b) technicians; and (ii) the health sector, such as domiciliary care roles.","answerText":"The JobStart scheme is open to employers across the public, private and voluntary sectors. This already provides the potential for opportunities to be created in the roles listed.","answerHtml":"The JobStart scheme is open to employers across the public, private and voluntary sectors. This already provides the potential for opportunities to be created in the roles listed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036143%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=460822","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=460822"}},{"id":"460821","reference":"AQW 36142/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-24","answerBy":"2025-12-09","answered":"2026-01-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of JobStart Scheme employment opportunities identified within the Department of Communities, and in each of the other Departments.","answerText":"Figures are not yet available for the number of JobStart opportunities available across the NICS.","answerHtml":"Figures are not yet available for the number of JobStart opportunities available across the NICS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036142%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=460821","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=460821"}},{"id":"460820","reference":"AQW 36141/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-24","answerBy":"2025-12-09","answered":"2026-01-15","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 32515/22-27.","answerText":"AQW 32515/22-27 was answered on 9 January 2026.","answerHtml":"AQW 32515/22-27 was answered on 9 January 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036141%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=460820","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=460820"}},{"id":"460599","reference":"AQW 36051/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-21","answerBy":"2025-12-08","answered":"2025-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any evidence a claimant on Universal Credit will be required to produce to access financial support for a service listed in the Help with Health Costs Scheme from 1 December 2025.","answerText":"Universal Credit claimants that fall within the thresholds for automatic passporting to the Help with Health Costs scheme will be advised that they can show their UC award notice or their UC statement, either a hard copy or digital format on their phone or device as proof of entitlement to help with health costs.\n\nThe delivery of the Help with Health Costs scheme rests with the Department for Communities and my officials, policy and operational, have worked closely with the Department for Communities to ensure that relevant operational processes in addition to external and internal guidance are updated to facilitate a smooth rollout of the new policy.","answerHtml":"Universal Credit claimants that fall within the thresholds for automatic passporting to the Help with Health Costs scheme will be advised that they can show their UC award notice or their UC statement, either a hard copy or digital format on their phone or device as proof of entitlement to help with health costs.
The delivery of the Help with Health Costs scheme rests with the Department for Communities and my officials, policy and operational, have worked closely with the Department for Communities to ensure that relevant operational processes in addition to external and internal guidance are updated to facilitate a smooth rollout of the new policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036051%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=460599","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=460599"}},{"id":"460598","reference":"AQW 36050/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-21","answerBy":"2025-12-08","answered":"2025-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the process his Department will use to process claims for the reinstated Help with Health Costs Scheme from 1 December 2025.","answerText":"The Help with Health Costs scheme remains unchanged, however the legislation has been amended from 1 December 2025 to enable automatic passporting to certain Universal Credit recipients. Over 195,000 current recipients of Universal Credit in Northern Ireland will be eligible for automatic passporting to Help with Health Costs from 1 December 2025. The underlying threshold eligibility criteria for the Help with Health Costs have not changed, rather, some individuals who may have previously accessed support through the Low-Income Scheme will now be automatically passported.\n\nThose in receipt of Universal Credit who are not automatically passported from the 1 December 2025 will continue to have to apply through the Low-Income Scheme. The legislation which makes provision for the Help with Health Costs scheme falls within the remit of the Department of Health, however operational responsibility for the delivery of the Help with Health Costs scheme rests with the Department for Communities.\n\nMy officials, both policy and operational have worked with the Department for Communities to ensure that relevant operational processes in addition to external and internal guidance are updated to facilitate a smooth rollout of the new policy.","answerHtml":"The Help with Health Costs scheme remains unchanged, however the legislation has been amended from 1 December 2025 to enable automatic passporting to certain Universal Credit recipients. Over 195,000 current recipients of Universal Credit in Northern Ireland will be eligible for automatic passporting to Help with Health Costs from 1 December 2025. The underlying threshold eligibility criteria for the Help with Health Costs have not changed, rather, some individuals who may have previously accessed support through the Low-Income Scheme will now be automatically passported.
Those in receipt of Universal Credit who are not automatically passported from the 1 December 2025 will continue to have to apply through the Low-Income Scheme. The legislation which makes provision for the Help with Health Costs scheme falls within the remit of the Department of Health, however operational responsibility for the delivery of the Help with Health Costs scheme rests with the Department for Communities.
My officials, both policy and operational have worked with the Department for Communities to ensure that relevant operational processes in addition to external and internal guidance are updated to facilitate a smooth rollout of the new policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036050%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=460598","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=460598"}},{"id":"460417","reference":"AQO 2805/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-20","answerBy":"2025-12-02","answered":"2025-12-02","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 the recently reconvened Coastal Forum will help support greater coastal resilience and adaptation.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"The coastal forum met on 19 November and provided a valuable opportunity to review progress that has been made on coastal management issues. I co-chaired the meeting with the Minister for Infrastructure. I am pleased to report that there has been significant progress in delivering the agreed work programme. A major achievement is the high-quality evidence base that is available from the Northern Ireland Coastal Observatory. That milestone follows investment of approximately £2·5 million by my Department and provides a platform that can be used for future policy development and decision-making. In particular, the coastal change information tool provides scientific interpretation of historical coastal change patterns and offers insights into how our coastline may respond to future challenges, such as sea-level rise and climate change. The coastal forum was provided with an update from Ulster University and the National Trust on how €9·6 million from the PEACE PLUS programme will be invested in coastal monitoring and adaptation planning. That funding will ensure that momentum is maintained, and it will provide opportunities for coastal communities to participate in climate change adaptation planning. The coastal forum working group will produce a stocktake report of the current work programme and make recommendations for the 2026-2031 work programme. That will provide an opportunity to set priorities for the next five years and consider new work areas, such as the potential role of blue carbon habitats as nature-based solutions for coastal resilience."},{"speaker":"Ms K Armstrong","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. I am delighted to hear that coastal communities will be able to have input into the forum. Minister, can you update the House on your work on marine protected areas (MPAs), such as Strangford lough in my constituency?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"My Department consulted on the review of the Northern Ireland marine protected areas strategy in 2024 and has now produced an updated MPA strategy for 2025-2030. The strategy sets out the priorities for the next five years and will focus on ensuring that MPAs are managed effectively. My Department has recently received very encouraging updates from a pilot project at Strangford lough that demonstrates how damaged seagrass habitats can be restored using eco moorings. The updated strategy and synopsis of consultation responses have been shared with the AERA Committee. I intend to publish the strategy in January 2026."},{"speaker":"","text":"For those who want more information on the coastal forum, the minutes and detailed work programme will be published on the Northern Ireland Coastal Observatory website."},{"speaker":"Ms Brownlee","text":"I welcome the fact that the coastal forum is meeting, but how will it help to protect our critical infrastructure and work collaboratively with the Department for Infrastructure in East Antrim? We have concerns about the A2 corridor, the rail line and protecting our harbour assets from the increasing risk of coastal erosion and rising sea levels."},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"I am conscious of the concerns about that and the risks to infrastructure in Northern Ireland. Detailed and robust modelling work and scientific analysis is being done on where we are going in that regard. That helps to give us evidence for where we should intervene. Work is also being undertaken to explore any potential legislation on this. I am conscious that there is no lead Department with responsibility for this. In addition, I will send a climate adaptation plan to the Executive for agreement. It is important that we take action in the wide range of areas that are of concern to people in Northern Ireland, particularly in relation to your constituency."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202805%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=460417","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-12-02&docID=461172#AQO%202805/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=460417"}},{"id":"459840","reference":"AQW 35754/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-18","answerBy":"2025-12-03","answered":"2025-11-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether the principles of fair funding arrangements, as agreed by the Executive in the Partnership Agreement with the Community and Voluntary Sector, launched July 2025, are required to be included by each Department of the Executive, as part of the current planning and submissions to his Department for the upcoming multi-year budget.","answerText":"The fair funding principles set out in the Partnership Agreement with the Voluntary and Community Sector are intended to enable effective use of public funding and deliver greater benefits to our communities.\n\nThese principles should be considered alongside and do not override existing accountability requirements, financial and budgetary guidance, procurement policy or legislation.\n\nIt is the responsibility of each Minister to determine how best to incorporate these principles into their departmental decision-making processes when preparing bid submissions to my department as part of in year exercises or the multi-year budget information-gathering exercise.","answerHtml":"The fair funding principles set out in the Partnership Agreement with the Voluntary and Community Sector are intended to enable effective use of public funding and deliver greater benefits to our communities.
These principles should be considered alongside and do not override existing accountability requirements, financial and budgetary guidance, procurement policy or legislation.
It is the responsibility of each Minister to determine how best to incorporate these principles into their departmental decision-making processes when preparing bid submissions to my department as part of in year exercises or the multi-year budget information-gathering exercise.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035754%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=459840","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=459840"}},{"id":"459839","reference":"AQW 35753/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-18","answerBy":"2025-12-03","answered":"2026-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the reporting commitments contained in the Partnership Agreement with the Community and Voluntary Sector, will provide details from every Executive Department, setting out how they are delivering the Fair Funding arrangements.","answerText":"The process for evaluating the implementation of the Partnership Agreement, including the Fair Funding Principles, is currently being developed by the Joint Forum’s Evaluation Working Group. While annual reports are expected to draw on contributions from Executive Departments, local government, and the Voluntary and Community Sector, the scope of reporting in the first year has not yet been agreed. This reflects the ongoing work by the Joint Forum to raise awareness of the Partnership Agreement, promote shared understanding, and establish the evaluation framework. The scope of the first annual report will be confirmed once the Evaluation Working Group has completed its work.","answerHtml":"The process for evaluating the implementation of the Partnership Agreement, including the Fair Funding Principles, is currently being developed by the Joint Forum’s Evaluation Working Group. While annual reports are expected to draw on contributions from Executive Departments, local government, and the Voluntary and Community Sector, the scope of reporting in the first year has not yet been agreed. This reflects the ongoing work by the Joint Forum to raise awareness of the Partnership Agreement, promote shared understanding, and establish the evaluation framework. The scope of the first annual report will be confirmed once the Evaluation Working Group has completed its work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035753%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=459839","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=459839"}},{"id":"459838","reference":"AQW 35752/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-18","answerBy":"2025-12-03","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 whether he has any plans to review the budget for Supporting People, with an aim to uplift the budget, in order to ensure providers pay staff a fair and equitable salary for the services delivered for vulnerable people.","answerText":"I have confirmed a further allocation of £1.98m in-year funding to the Supporting People Programme to address staffing and inflationary costs.","answerHtml":"I have confirmed a further allocation of £1.98m in-year funding to the Supporting People Programme to address staffing and inflationary costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035752%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=459838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=459838"}},{"id":"459837","reference":"AQW 35751/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-18","answerBy":"2025-12-03","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 to detail the location of each of the 600 homes being purchased by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive for temporary accommodation, broken down by local council area, including the year of purchase or expected purchase.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The principal considerations in the geographical distribution of these units will include:\n\nGeographical areas where exposure to high-cost temporary accommodation is most prevalent.\n\nThe nature of the temporary accommodation client groups (single persons, couples, families).\n\nThe availability of suitable property available to purchase that align with the above criteria.\n\nValue for money considerations.\n\nNo properties have yet been purchased under this scheme however we estimate a purchasing profile of:\n\n25 Yr1 2025/26,\n\n125 Yr2 2026/27,\n\n225 Yr3 2027/28,\n\n225 Yr4 2028/29”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The principal considerations in the geographical distribution of these units will include:
Geographical areas where exposure to high-cost temporary accommodation is most prevalent.
The nature of the temporary accommodation client groups (single persons, couples, families).
The availability of suitable property available to purchase that align with the above criteria.
Value for money considerations.
No properties have yet been purchased under this scheme however we estimate a purchasing profile of:
25 Yr1 2025/26,
125 Yr2 2026/27,
225 Yr3 2027/28,
225 Yr4 2028/29”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035751%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=459837","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=459837"}},{"id":"459836","reference":"AQW 35750/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-18","answerBy":"2025-12-03","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 for his assessment of the number of jobs in the Community and Voluntary Sector, at risk of redundancy, due to the lack of certainly regarding the future of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Local Growth Fund.","answerText":"As these funds are administered directly by the UK Government, my Department is unable to assess in detail the impact of the potential loss of funding on the Voluntary & Community Sector (VCS).\n\nWe have, however, been provided with information from NICVA which estimates that approximately 650 staff from the Sector were involved in project delivery up to 31 March 2025.\n\nI remain extremely concerned that the current Local Growth Fund financial allocation from April 2026 will have a negative impact on our VCS who currently deliver Economic Inactivity interventions which support those furthest from the labour market.\n\nMy Department has been working closely with the Department of Finance, the Northern Ireland Office and the UK Government to seek clarity on the transition to the Local Growth Fund.","answerHtml":"As these funds are administered directly by the UK Government, my Department is unable to assess in detail the impact of the potential loss of funding on the Voluntary & Community Sector (VCS).
We have, however, been provided with information from NICVA which estimates that approximately 650 staff from the Sector were involved in project delivery up to 31 March 2025.
I remain extremely concerned that the current Local Growth Fund financial allocation from April 2026 will have a negative impact on our VCS who currently deliver Economic Inactivity interventions which support those furthest from the labour market.
My Department has been working closely with the Department of Finance, the Northern Ireland Office and the UK Government to seek clarity on the transition to the Local Growth Fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035750%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=459836","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=459836"}},{"id":"459424","reference":"AQW 35646/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-17","answerBy":"2025-12-02","answered":"2025-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he has any plans to remove the second religion question from future censuses, that asks respondents, who confirm they have no faith, to confirm what religious community background they may have come from.","answerText":"The content and design of the Census 2031 questionnaire will be shaped by user need and legislative requirements. As such NISRA, which has responsibility for the planning and conduct of a census here, launched a public consultation on Census User needs on 28 October this year. That consultation will run for 14 weeks until February 2026 – and will support the next phase to design, test and recommend questions to be included.\n\nAfter the close of the consultation on 4 February 2026, all responses will be evaluated to inform NISRA’s recommendation for topics to be included in the 2031 Census questionnaire.","answerHtml":"The content and design of the Census 2031 questionnaire will be shaped by user need and legislative requirements. As such NISRA, which has responsibility for the planning and conduct of a census here, launched a public consultation on Census User needs on 28 October this year. That consultation will run for 14 weeks until February 2026 – and will support the next phase to design, test and recommend questions to be included.
After the close of the consultation on 4 February 2026, all responses will be evaluated to inform NISRA’s recommendation for topics to be included in the 2031 Census questionnaire.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035646%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=459424","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=459424"}},{"id":"459423","reference":"AQW 35645/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-17","answerBy":"2025-12-02","answered":"2025-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) how the Fair Employment (School Teachers) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, has been progressed; and (ii) where the evidence of the religious background of teachers, per school, is reported and published.","answerText":"To ensure the smooth implementation of the Fair Employment (School Teachers) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 a working group was established with management representatives from all of the education sectors.\n\nThis group worked in conjunction with the Equality Commission and guidance for schools was published with the support of Management Side of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee. The Equality Commission delivered a series of training webinars specifically on the recruitment and selection guidance. The target audience for the webinars was those school governors, principals, heads of departments involved in the recruitment and selection of school teachers.\n\nThe Chair of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC) management side wrote to all schools explaining the requirements for the implementation of the Fair Employment (School Teachers) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.\n\nThe religious background of teachers in a particular school is not reported or published.\n\nThe Education Authority is responsible for preparing and submitting the annual monitoring return to the Equality Commission for teachers in controlled schools and CCMS is responsible for carrying out this function for teachers in Catholic maintained schools. All other schools with over ten staff are required to submit monitoring returns to the Equality Commission.","answerHtml":"To ensure the smooth implementation of the Fair Employment (School Teachers) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 a working group was established with management representatives from all of the education sectors.
This group worked in conjunction with the Equality Commission and guidance for schools was published with the support of Management Side of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee. The Equality Commission delivered a series of training webinars specifically on the recruitment and selection guidance. The target audience for the webinars was those school governors, principals, heads of departments involved in the recruitment and selection of school teachers.
The Chair of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC) management side wrote to all schools explaining the requirements for the implementation of the Fair Employment (School Teachers) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.
The religious background of teachers in a particular school is not reported or published.
The Education Authority is responsible for preparing and submitting the annual monitoring return to the Equality Commission for teachers in controlled schools and CCMS is responsible for carrying out this function for teachers in Catholic maintained schools. All other schools with over ten staff are required to submit monitoring returns to the Equality Commission.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035645%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=459423","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=459423"}},{"id":"459422","reference":"AQW 35644/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-17","answerBy":"2025-12-02","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 average waiting time for an update hearing test and replacement hearing aid, following an issue with the first hearing aid, in each 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%2035644%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=459422","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=459422"}},{"id":"459421","reference":"AQW 35643/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-17","answerBy":"2025-12-02","answered":"2025-12-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of people who have not yet been transferred on to Universal Credit, broken down by type of benefit.","answerText":"The table below shows the number of people who have been issued with a migration notice but who have not yet claimed Universal Credit, broken down by type of benefit.\n\nBenefit combination\tNumber of claimants\nESA and HB\t7,050\nESA\t5,800\nHB\t50\nIS\t10\nHB and JSA\t10\nESA and IS\t*\nJSA\t*\nTotal\t12,910\n\nNotes:\n\nData Source: Universal Credit weekly Move to UC tracker file at 19/11/2025.\n\nFigures are at the individual claimant level, so will be greater than the number of households.\n\nFigures are the number of claimants who have received a Move to Universal Credit notification, but have yet to make a UC claim and have not had their claim stopped or a claim pending, as of 19/11/2025.\n\nThere are a number of cases that have not yet received a Move to Universal Credit notification as of 19/11/2025. These are not included in the figures.\n\nFigures are rounded to the nearest 10 and totals may not sum due to rounding. Figures below 5 are marked as *.","answerHtml":"The table below shows the number of people who have been issued with a migration notice but who have not yet claimed Universal Credit, broken down by type of benefit.
| Benefit combination | Number of claimants |
| ESA and HB | 7,050 |
| ESA | 5,800 |
| HB | 50 |
| IS | 10 |
| HB and JSA | 10 |
| ESA and IS | * |
| JSA | * |
| Total | 12,910 |
Notes:
Data Source: Universal Credit weekly Move to UC tracker file at 19/11/2025.
Figures are at the individual claimant level, so will be greater than the number of households.
Figures are the number of claimants who have received a Move to Universal Credit notification, but have yet to make a UC claim and have not had their claim stopped or a claim pending, as of 19/11/2025.
There are a number of cases that have not yet received a Move to Universal Credit notification as of 19/11/2025. These are not included in the figures.
Figures are rounded to the nearest 10 and totals may not sum due to rounding. Figures below 5 are marked as *.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035643%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=459421","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=459421"}},{"id":"459420","reference":"AQW 35642/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-17","answerBy":"2025-12-02","answered":"2025-12-02","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 delivery of three rounds of IVF, as set out in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines.","answerText":"I remain fully supportive of the New Decade, New Approach commitment to provide up to three funded cycles of IVF. You may be aware it was included following a request by my party.\n\nAlthough the expansion in 2024 to one full cycle was welcomed, it was not possible to expand the service further due to funding constraints.\n\nMy Department is continuing to work with the Regional Fertility Centre to explore the feasibility of expanding current capacity from within available resources. This is extremely challenging, as any expansion must be both affordable and deliverable without detriment to current provision and waiting times, which the team has worked hard to maintain after the disruption of the Covid pandemic. While I am cautious about raising expectations at this stage, I am assured that all feasible options for moving to a second cycle are being actively considered.\n\nWhile planning work is ongoing, it is not possible to give a definitive implementation date at this stage.","answerHtml":"I remain fully supportive of the New Decade, New Approach commitment to provide up to three funded cycles of IVF. You may be aware it was included following a request by my party.
Although the expansion in 2024 to one full cycle was welcomed, it was not possible to expand the service further due to funding constraints.
My Department is continuing to work with the Regional Fertility Centre to explore the feasibility of expanding current capacity from within available resources. This is extremely challenging, as any expansion must be both affordable and deliverable without detriment to current provision and waiting times, which the team has worked hard to maintain after the disruption of the Covid pandemic. While I am cautious about raising expectations at this stage, I am assured that all feasible options for moving to a second cycle are being actively considered.
While planning work is ongoing, it is not possible to give a definitive implementation date at this stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035642%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=459420","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=459420"}},{"id":"458727","reference":"AQW 35336/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-12","answerBy":"2025-11-27","answered":"2026-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any processes that have been put in place by his Department to confirm which Universal Credit claimants are eligible for the Help with Health Costs scheme, once passporting is introduced from 1 December 2025; and (ii) the form that claimants, who are in receipt of Universal Credit, but are under the threshold for automatic passporting, should use to apply for the low income scheme.","answerText":"Over 195,000 claimants who are not declaring earned income or are under certain earned income thresholds will be automatically passported to help with health care costs and will no longer need to complete an application for Help with Health Costs. Their eligibility for help can be confirmed via their Universal Credit statement.\n\nClaimants who are under the earned income threshold for automatic passporting will not be required to complete any forms. Those who are above the earned income thresholds and require Help with Health Costs can continue to apply for support through the Low-income Scheme by completing form HC1 'Claim for help with health and travel costs'.","answerHtml":"Over 195,000 claimants who are not declaring earned income or are under certain earned income thresholds will be automatically passported to help with health care costs and will no longer need to complete an application for Help with Health Costs. Their eligibility for help can be confirmed via their Universal Credit statement.
Claimants who are under the earned income threshold for automatic passporting will not be required to complete any forms. Those who are above the earned income thresholds and require Help with Health Costs can continue to apply for support through the Low-income Scheme by completing form HC1 'Claim for help with health and travel costs'.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035336%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458727","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458727"}},{"id":"458726","reference":"AQW 35335/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-12","answerBy":"2025-11-27","answered":"2026-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any allocation being provided to Northern Ireland, from the UK Government’s launch of a new £27 million veterans strategy, to fund a network of support centres intended to provide veterans with advice on housing and employment.","answerText":"No specific allocation has been made to Northern Ireland under this programme as it is an open call for funding. Existing organisations or consortiums can apply for funding to the Office for Veterans Affairs within the Ministry of Defence before 14 January 2026.","answerHtml":"No specific allocation has been made to Northern Ireland under this programme as it is an open call for funding. Existing organisations or consortiums can apply for funding to the Office for Veterans Affairs within the Ministry of Defence before 14 January 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035335%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458726","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458726"}},{"id":"458725","reference":"AQW 35334/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-12","answerBy":"2025-11-27","answered":"2026-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the rational for veterans not being listed as a specific category in the Housing Executive's Homelessness Guidance Manual, Chapter Five: Priority Need.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has statutory responsibility for providing homelessness assistance in Northern Ireland. When exercising its functions in relation to housing allocation, homelessness and disabled facilities grants, due regard must be given to the principle of the Armed Forces Covenant that service members, veterans, and their families are treated fairly and receive the support that they need, including access to social housing in Northern Ireland.\n\nThis is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I have sought the information requested from the Chief Executive who has advised me as follows:\n\n“Article 5 (1) of the Housing (NI) Order 1988 sets out six distinct categories of persons having a priority need for accommodation. The Homelessness Guidance Manual is policy guidance for staff and reflects the legislative parameters within which the Housing Executive operates. Veterans are therefore not listed as a distinct category as this is not provided for in the relevant legislation.\n\nIn comparison to England, whereby the Housing Order 1996 allows Local Authorities in England to give additional Priority to members of the Armed Forces if they are identified as in urgent housing need, no such provision exists within Northern Ireland, or within the Housing (NI) Order 1988 which would allow the Housing Executive to do so.\n\nWhere an applicant is a former member of the Armed Forces, any and all circumstances/needs related to their service history should be taken into consideration. This may include any physical or mental health issues which a member of the armed forces may have (as a result of their service) and these will be taken into consideration in terms of establishing vulnerability in line with investigation of their homeless application.”","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has statutory responsibility for providing homelessness assistance in Northern Ireland. When exercising its functions in relation to housing allocation, homelessness and disabled facilities grants, due regard must be given to the principle of the Armed Forces Covenant that service members, veterans, and their families are treated fairly and receive the support that they need, including access to social housing in Northern Ireland.
This is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I have sought the information requested from the Chief Executive who has advised me as follows:
“Article 5 (1) of the Housing (NI) Order 1988 sets out six distinct categories of persons having a priority need for accommodation. The Homelessness Guidance Manual is policy guidance for staff and reflects the legislative parameters within which the Housing Executive operates. Veterans are therefore not listed as a distinct category as this is not provided for in the relevant legislation.
In comparison to England, whereby the Housing Order 1996 allows Local Authorities in England to give additional Priority to members of the Armed Forces if they are identified as in urgent housing need, no such provision exists within Northern Ireland, or within the Housing (NI) Order 1988 which would allow the Housing Executive to do so.
Where an applicant is a former member of the Armed Forces, any and all circumstances/needs related to their service history should be taken into consideration. This may include any physical or mental health issues which a member of the armed forces may have (as a result of their service) and these will be taken into consideration in terms of establishing vulnerability in line with investigation of their homeless application.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035334%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458725","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458725"}},{"id":"458568","reference":"AQW 35216/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-11","answerBy":"2025-11-26","answered":"2026-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail whether they will promote the changes to Help with Health costs for claimants of Universal Credit, coming into effect on 1 December 2025, through the online portal to ensure all are aware they can access help towards dental treatment, eye sight tests, glasses or contact lenses, and travel costs for health and social care treatment.","answerText":"My Department will promote the changes to the Help with Health Costs scheme by issuing a notification to every existing Universal Credit claimant. In addition we are amending the Universal Credit journal welcome message, providing signposting in our 35 Jobs and Benefits offices and via telephone, and reflecting the changes on nidirect, a key source of information for Universal Credit claimants. Finally, we are updating external products such as the leaflets and posters distributed to opticians and dental practices.","answerHtml":"My Department will promote the changes to the Help with Health Costs scheme by issuing a notification to every existing Universal Credit claimant. In addition we are amending the Universal Credit journal welcome message, providing signposting in our 35 Jobs and Benefits offices and via telephone, and reflecting the changes on nidirect, a key source of information for Universal Credit claimants. Finally, we are updating external products such as the leaflets and posters distributed to opticians and dental practices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035216%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458568","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458568"}},{"id":"458567","reference":"AQW 35215/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-11","answerBy":"2025-11-26","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 how he will promote the changes to Help with Health Costs for claimants of Universal Credit to ensure that they are aware they can access help towards (i) dental treatment; (ii) eye sight tests; (iii) glasses; (iv) contact lenses; and (v) travel costs for health and social care treatment.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035215%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458567","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458567"}},{"id":"458566","reference":"AQW 35214/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-11","answerBy":"2025-11-26","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 will introduce a health and wellbeing programme for carers, delivered through the Health and Social Care Trusts, that includes an annual carers' health assessment and advice on diet and exercise, mental health and the importance of self-care.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035214%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458566","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458566"}},{"id":"458565","reference":"AQW 35213/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-11","answerBy":"2025-11-26","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 to detail the rational for a blood test not being included as standard practice during annual learning disability assessments, given that this test could highlight issues such as diabetes in a cohort of people who may have difficulty communicating symptoms.","answerText":"Annual Health Checks for people with a learning disability are delivered through the Northern Ireland Contract Assurance Framework (NICAF), which requires General Practices (GP) to use a recognised protocol such as the Cardiff Health Check. These protocols include recommended blood tests, such as glucose and lipid profiles, where clinically indicated.\n\nBlood tests are not mandated for every individual because venepuncture is an invasive procedure that may cause distress, particularly for those requiring desensitisation or best‑interests processes where capacity is limited. Current clinical guidance therefore supports an ‘offer and clinical indication’ model rather than universal testing.\n\nGPs undertake blood tests where symptoms, risk factors or existing conditions require investigation, or where individuals or carers consent to testing. This approach ensures that clinical judgement, proportionality and patient rights remain central to the assessment.\n\nThe draft Learning Disability Service Model and its Service Delivery Plan outline actions to improve the quality and uptake of Annual Health Checks including:\n\na regional communication plan.\n\nstrengthened Health Facilitation\n\ndevelopment of a monitoring database, and\n\nenhanced support for reasonable adjustments within primary care.\n\nThese measures will improve early identification of health needs, including through appropriate use of blood tests.","answerHtml":"Annual Health Checks for people with a learning disability are delivered through the Northern Ireland Contract Assurance Framework (NICAF), which requires General Practices (GP) to use a recognised protocol such as the Cardiff Health Check. These protocols include recommended blood tests, such as glucose and lipid profiles, where clinically indicated.
Blood tests are not mandated for every individual because venepuncture is an invasive procedure that may cause distress, particularly for those requiring desensitisation or best‑interests processes where capacity is limited. Current clinical guidance therefore supports an ‘offer and clinical indication’ model rather than universal testing.
GPs undertake blood tests where symptoms, risk factors or existing conditions require investigation, or where individuals or carers consent to testing. This approach ensures that clinical judgement, proportionality and patient rights remain central to the assessment.
The draft Learning Disability Service Model and its Service Delivery Plan outline actions to improve the quality and uptake of Annual Health Checks including:
a regional communication plan.
strengthened Health Facilitation
development of a monitoring database, and
enhanced support for reasonable adjustments within primary care.
These measures will improve early identification of health needs, including through appropriate use of blood tests.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035213%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458565","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458565"}},{"id":"458564","reference":"AQW 35212/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-11","answerBy":"2025-11-26","answered":"2025-11-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the last time school meals were reviewed to ensure they met the recommended dietary content, promoted by Diabetes UK.","answerText":"My Department completed a review of the nutritional standards for school food in 2021. This was informed by a working group of health and educational school food experts to ensure alignment with up-to-date government guidance on healthy eating such as the Eatwell Guide.\n\nWhilst revised nutritional standards were agreed, due to budgetary pressures, the necessary funding to take forward their implementation has not yet been available.","answerHtml":"My Department completed a review of the nutritional standards for school food in 2021. This was informed by a working group of health and educational school food experts to ensure alignment with up-to-date government guidance on healthy eating such as the Eatwell Guide.
Whilst revised nutritional standards were agreed, due to budgetary pressures, the necessary funding to take forward their implementation has not yet been available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035212%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=458564","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=458564"}},{"id":"457461","reference":"AQW 34607/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-04","answerBy":"2025-11-07","answered":"2025-11-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide a copy of any invitation he received (i) into his Private Office; (ii) directly to his MLA or ministerial email address; (iii) through his Special Adviser, to visit Israel in October 2025, outlining (a) the date and time received; (b) the source of the invitation; and (c) any responses provided through his MLA or Private Office email addresses regarding any invitations.","answerText":"At 14.53 on 15 September, I received an invitation, to my MLA account, from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Israel inviting me to be part of a devolved administration delegation to Israel from the 24–31 October 2025. I asked my Private Office to provide a response, which I approved and they issued.","answerHtml":"At 14.53 on 15 September, I received an invitation, to my MLA account, from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Israel inviting me to be part of a devolved administration delegation to Israel from the 24–31 October 2025. I asked my Private Office to provide a response, which I approved and they issued.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034607%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457461","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457461"}},{"id":"457460","reference":"AQW 34606/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-04","answerBy":"2025-11-19","answered":"2025-11-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to provide a copy of all minutes or notes taken at any ministerial meetings and interactions that took place in Israel in October 2025; and (ii) to confirm the number of civil servants in attendance to take those minutes or notes, as required in the Functioning of Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021.","answerText":"Pursuant to the Functioning of Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021, the legislation sets out specific obligations for Ministers regarding transparency, accountability, and the conduct of official business.\n\nThese obligations apply only to “relevant meetings,” defined as pre-arranged meetings with third parties to conduct official business. Having reviewed all engagements during the Israel visit and consulted with officials, I am satisfied that none of them meet this definition.","answerHtml":"Pursuant to the Functioning of Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021, the legislation sets out specific obligations for Ministers regarding transparency, accountability, and the conduct of official business.
These obligations apply only to “relevant meetings,” defined as pre-arranged meetings with third parties to conduct official business. Having reviewed all engagements during the Israel visit and consulted with officials, I am satisfied that none of them meet this definition.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034606%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457460","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457460"}},{"id":"457459","reference":"AQW 34605/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-04","answerBy":"2025-11-19","answered":"2025-11-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide a copy of his, or his Special Adviser’s, instruction to departmental officials to promote his activities in Israel on the Department of Education social media channels during his visit in October 2025.","answerText":"On Monday 27 October 2025, I asked the Press Office to draft a press release about the visit to Ofek School in Jerusalem.","answerHtml":"On Monday 27 October 2025, I asked the Press Office to draft a press release about the visit to Ofek School in Jerusalem.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034605%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457459","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457459"}},{"id":"454318","reference":"AQW 33307/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-10","answerBy":"2025-10-27","answered":"2026-01-08","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, given the findings of Simon Community’s recent report, Childhood Adversity and Homelessness in Northern Ireland: Breaking the Cycle, to detail any plans they have to drive better cross-departmental collaboration, to tackle and prevent homelessness.","answerText":"My Department already leads on the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan and officials will seek to expand on this work to ensure greater collaboration and engagement at a strategic level across Departments to address Homelessness.","answerHtml":"My Department already leads on the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan and officials will seek to expand on this work to ensure greater collaboration and engagement at a strategic level across Departments to address Homelessness.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033307%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454318","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454318"}},{"id":"453616","reference":"AQW 32977/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-07","answerBy":"2025-10-22","answered":"2025-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail whether his Department has a centralised, publicly-accessible, database of buildings identified as needing remediation in regards to fire safety.","answerText":"My Department holds a database of all buildings that have undergone a Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls as part of the Cladding Safety Scheme where the assessment has demonstrated the need for remediation. This list is not publicly available.\n\nIt is intended to publicly publish details of awards made under the Northern Ireland Cladding Safety Scheme in due course.","answerHtml":"My Department holds a database of all buildings that have undergone a Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls as part of the Cladding Safety Scheme where the assessment has demonstrated the need for remediation. This list is not publicly available.
It is intended to publicly publish details of awards made under the Northern Ireland Cladding Safety Scheme in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032977%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453616","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453616"}},{"id":"453615","reference":"AQW 32976/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-07","answerBy":"2025-10-22","answered":"2025-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how his Department is working with local councils to ensure consistent enforcement of fire safety standards across Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My officials are currently drafting a high-rise residential building policy safety policy that will aim to ensure consistent enforcement of fire safety standards across Northern Ireland. Significant engagement has already taken place and will continue with council officials in the development of the policy to ensure consistency.","answerHtml":"My officials are currently drafting a high-rise residential building policy safety policy that will aim to ensure consistent enforcement of fire safety standards across Northern Ireland. Significant engagement has already taken place and will continue with council officials in the development of the policy to ensure consistency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032976%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453615","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453615"}},{"id":"453614","reference":"AQW 32975/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-07","answerBy":"2025-10-22","answered":"2025-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure the golden thread of information is (i) embedded into building management; and (ii) applied consistently to Northern Ireland projects.","answerText":"My Department is currently co-designing policy with citizen’s, industry and public sector experts that will ensure that Golden Thread information is embedded into building management.\n\nIt is intended that the regulatory function proposed within the policy will ensure consistency across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently co-designing policy with citizen’s, industry and public sector experts that will ensure that Golden Thread information is embedded into building management.
It is intended that the regulatory function proposed within the policy will ensure consistency across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032975%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453614","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453614"}},{"id":"453613","reference":"AQW 32974/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-07","answerBy":"2025-10-22","answered":"2025-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure all high-rise buildings meet fire safety regulations, particularly in relation to cladding, balcony materials and fire doors.","answerText":"My officials are currently drafting a high-rise residential building safety policy that aims to improve fire safety in new build and existing high rise residential buildings in line with recommendations from the DoF Expert Panel report, the Hackitt reports and the Grenfell Enquiry. The policy will address all related building products mentioned in your question.","answerHtml":"My officials are currently drafting a high-rise residential building safety policy that aims to improve fire safety in new build and existing high rise residential buildings in line with recommendations from the DoF Expert Panel report, the Hackitt reports and the Grenfell Enquiry. The policy will address all related building products mentioned in your question.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032974%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453613","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453613"}},{"id":"452449","reference":"AQW 32515/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","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 any plans he has to align Northern Ireland’s building safety regime with the Building Safety Act 2022 in England, and the Building Safety Regulator.","answerText":"The Department has researched arrangements in all UK jurisdictions and in Ireland, with a view to the creation of bespoke policy and legislation to effectively regulate Residential Building Safety in Northern Ireland, subject to Assembly approval.","answerHtml":"The Department has researched arrangements in all UK jurisdictions and in Ireland, with a view to the creation of bespoke policy and legislation to effectively regulate Residential Building Safety in Northern Ireland, subject to Assembly approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032515%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452449","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452449"}},{"id":"452448","reference":"AQW 32514/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide an update on the work of the Residential Building Safety Team.","answerText":"Following a period of research and engagement, officials are finalising a draft policy paper which will be issued for public consultation later this year. Subject to Executive agreement, my Department intends to introduce a Building Safety Bill early in the next mandate.","answerHtml":"Following a period of research and engagement, officials are finalising a draft policy paper which will be issued for public consultation later this year. Subject to Executive agreement, my Department intends to introduce a Building Safety Bill early in the next mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032514%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452448","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452448"}},{"id":"452447","reference":"AQW 32513/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the amount being paid to Cooperation Ireland to manage the NI Community Infrastructure Fund,; and (ii) is this cost is being deducted from the £4.32 million available for the fund.","answerText":"Co-operation Ireland are being grant funded £432k over three financial years to administer the Northern Ireland Community Infrastructure Fund.\n\nNo.","answerHtml":"Co-operation Ireland are being grant funded £432k over three financial years to administer the Northern Ireland Community Infrastructure Fund.
No.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032513%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452447","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452447"}},{"id":"452446","reference":"AQW 32512/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-08","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 detail any (i) advice; and (ii) guidance, provided to each Department of the Executive, to ensure regional economic balance is considered before any award of contract, tender or grant monies are decided.","answerText":"DoF has responsibility for policy around procurement and I do not have a remit to provide guidance to other Ministers on this. I am, however, glad to see a growing awareness of the importance of regional balance, which has been raised as a whole government issue within the new Programme for Government. I look forward to working with colleagues across the Executive to make sure this continues.","answerHtml":"DoF has responsibility for policy around procurement and I do not have a remit to provide guidance to other Ministers on this. I am, however, glad to see a growing awareness of the importance of regional balance, which has been raised as a whole government issue within the new Programme for Government. I look forward to working with colleagues across the Executive to make sure this continues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032512%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452446","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452446"}},{"id":"452445","reference":"AQW 32511/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-09","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 an annual report is produced detailing how each Department is delivering the Executive’s commitment to regional economic balance.","answerText":"Regional balance has been raised as a whole government issue within the new Programme for Government (PfG).\n\nA PfG Delivery Report will be published by the Executive on an annual basis. This report will set out progress made towards the PfG Priority “A Globally Competitive and Sustainable Economy”. This will include an update on work related to Regional Balance.","answerHtml":"Regional balance has been raised as a whole government issue within the new Programme for Government (PfG).
A PfG Delivery Report will be published by the Executive on an annual basis. This report will set out progress made towards the PfG Priority “A Globally Competitive and Sustainable Economy”. This will include an update on work related to Regional Balance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032511%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452445","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452445"}},{"id":"451303","reference":"AQO 2481/22-27","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 for his assessment of the waiting time for a child, with an urgent referral from Scrabo Children's Centre, to get a first appointment with an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"My Department is very aware of the challenges facing the South Eastern Trust in providing ear, nose and throat services. The trust has had difficulty recruiting consultants in recent years, and, in July 2025, there were three vacancies. To address that, my officials have been working closely with the Belfast Trust and the South Eastern Trust to develop a greater Belfast ENT service. I am pleased to advise that that collaboration has recently secured the recruitment of four new consultants. In time, they will provide significant additional capacity in the wider Belfast Trust and South Eastern Trust catchment area."},{"speaker":"Ms K Armstrong","text":"Thank you, Minister. I could have saved you from getting up to give me that answer because I received it in writing at 2.48 pm. What support can you provide to children who have been waiting to see an ear, nose and throat specialist for 180 weeks, given that they are heading into school with deafness, and their development and communication skills are falling way behind?"},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"I accept that the waiting times for services and treatment are extremely frustrating for patients and their families. I assure the Member that my officials and I have been working to address paediatric waiting lists and to modernise and standardise practices and pathways right across Northern Ireland. The Belfast Trust and the South Eastern Trust have validation exercises under way. Those lists are being amalgamated. As well as validating lists, the exercise involves consultants clinically e-triaging referrals. That is to determine whether the referral requires the patient to see a consultant in outpatients or whether they could go directly to surgery, diagnostics, audiology or to another professional, or, indeed, whether they should be returned to primary care, where they might be managed by primary care with advice. It means that only patients who need to see an ENT consultant will remain on the waiting list. It is a standardisation of clinical pathways. It is being implemented by the Belfast Trust and the South Eastern Trust but will be rolled out right across Northern Ireland. Therefore, we are doing what we can."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202481%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451303","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-10-06&docID=452297#AQO%202481/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451303"}},{"id":"451130","reference":"AQW 31995/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-24","answerBy":"2025-10-09","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 waiting times for children accessing a first appointment with Ear, Nose and Throat, 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%2031995%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451130","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451130"}},{"id":"451129","reference":"AQW 31994/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-24","answerBy":"2025-10-09","answered":"2025-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail all publicly owned land that has been transferred between Executive Departments, broken down by constituency or council area, in each of the past ten years.","answerText":"Land & Property Services (LPS) has the management, oversight, and advisory role in relation to the disposal of surplus public sector assets under the D1 disposal process. Over the past ten years, there have been six recorded instances of transfers of surplus assets between Departments. These transactions are outlined in the table below and includes the relevant council areas.\n\nYear Sold\tDisposing Body\tAcquiring Body\tAddress\tCouncil\n2015\tRoads Service\tDFP - Now DoF\tLand at Great Patrick Street/ Dunbar Link, Belfast\tBelfast\n2015\tOFMDFM\tDSD - Now DfC\tSt Patrick's Barracks, Demense Avenue, Ballymena\tMid & East Antrim\n2016\tOFMDFM\tDARD - Now DAERA\tShackleton Barracks, Dukes Lane, Ballykelly, Limavady\tCauseway Coast & Glens\n2023\tDOJ\tDfC/Historic Environment Division\tNI Regional War Rooms, 48 Mount Eden Park, Belfast\tBelfast\n2024\tDFI ROADS\tDfC\tLand at Albert Street/ Westlink, Belfast\tBelfast\n2025\tDFI ROADS\tDE\tLand at Gortin Road, Omagh\tFermanagh & Omagh","answerHtml":"Land & Property Services (LPS) has the management, oversight, and advisory role in relation to the disposal of surplus public sector assets under the D1 disposal process. Over the past ten years, there have been six recorded instances of transfers of surplus assets between Departments. These transactions are outlined in the table below and includes the relevant council areas.
| Year Sold | Disposing Body | Acquiring Body | Address | Council |
| 2015 | Roads Service | DFP - Now DoF | Land at Great Patrick Street/ Dunbar Link, Belfast | Belfast |
| 2015 | OFMDFM | DSD - Now DfC | St Patrick's Barracks, Demense Avenue, Ballymena | Mid & East Antrim |
| 2016 | OFMDFM | DARD - Now DAERA | Shackleton Barracks, Dukes Lane, Ballykelly, Limavady | Causeway Coast & Glens |
| 2023 | DOJ | DfC/Historic Environment Division | NI Regional War Rooms, 48 Mount Eden Park, Belfast | Belfast |
| 2024 | DFI ROADS | DfC | Land at Albert Street/ Westlink, Belfast | Belfast |
| 2025 | DFI ROADS | DE | Land at Gortin Road, Omagh | Fermanagh & Omagh |
ANSWER
The car park adjacent to the Rathgael House site has not yet been deemed surplus as it is currently in use whilst the ground works on the Rathgael site are ongoing.
These ground works should be completed by the end of October 2025 which will allow the Department to declare the adjacent car park surplus under the Land and Property Services ‘Disposal of Surplus Public Sector Property’ policy. This process will allow other public bodies to express an interest in acquiring the land.
At this stage, my Department has not been made aware of any interest from other departments or public sector bodies, however this will be formalised when the disposal process is initiated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031993%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451128","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451128"}},{"id":"451127","reference":"AQW 31992/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-24","answerBy":"2025-10-09","answered":"2025-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) the number of requests to utilise public land, made available from another Executive department that have been made, in each of the past ten years, in each council area; and (ii) if the requests have been successful; and (iii) what the land has since been used for.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nThere is no centralised database that records requests to utilise public land owned by Executive Departments. Departments are responsible for managing their estates, which may include considering approaches from other Departments, wider public sector or external parties, regarding the use of land or buildings.\n\nThe Strategic Asset Management Unit (SAMU) in Land & Property Services (LPS) has a role in the disposal of surplus public sector land and buildings as set out in the Disposal of Surplus Public Sector Property policy. SAMU maintains records of completed disposals but does not track assets beyond completion of a sale.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
There is no centralised database that records requests to utilise public land owned by Executive Departments. Departments are responsible for managing their estates, which may include considering approaches from other Departments, wider public sector or external parties, regarding the use of land or buildings.
The Strategic Asset Management Unit (SAMU) in Land & Property Services (LPS) has a role in the disposal of surplus public sector land and buildings as set out in the Disposal of Surplus Public Sector Property policy. SAMU maintains records of completed disposals but does not track assets beyond completion of a sale.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031992%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451127","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451127"}},{"id":"451126","reference":"AQW 31991/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-24","answerBy":"2025-10-09","answered":"2025-11-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 20813/22-27, and further to the release of a substantial area of land in Bangor, County Down by the Department of Education, to detail (i) whether his officials have worked with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to identify this land for housing; and (ii) any actions that have been taken with Executive colleagues to ensure such opportunities are acted on quickly.","answerText":"To date, the Housing Executive has not been notified of any surplus land within the Education Authority’s estate in Bangor. The Housing Executive is a statutory partner in the Ards and North Down Community Planning Partnership and actively contributes to the Community Planning Estate and Land Sub-Group. They will raise the status of this site to assess its potential to meet housing needs. Where a viable opportunity is identified, the Housing Executive will express interest and nominate a Housing Association to explore the feasibility of delivering housing on the site.\n\nThe Housing Executive identifies and communicates social housing requirements through the Annual Housing Development Commission (formerly known as the Commissioning Prospectus), which also guides housing associations in their site search activities. Surplus public sector assets—whether identified through the Public Sector Trawl or directly by asset owners—are assessed against local housing need and development potential.\n\nI am also progressing work to bring a paper to the Executive around making better use of public land to support the supply of affordable housing.","answerHtml":"To date, the Housing Executive has not been notified of any surplus land within the Education Authority’s estate in Bangor. The Housing Executive is a statutory partner in the Ards and North Down Community Planning Partnership and actively contributes to the Community Planning Estate and Land Sub-Group. They will raise the status of this site to assess its potential to meet housing needs. Where a viable opportunity is identified, the Housing Executive will express interest and nominate a Housing Association to explore the feasibility of delivering housing on the site.
The Housing Executive identifies and communicates social housing requirements through the Annual Housing Development Commission (formerly known as the Commissioning Prospectus), which also guides housing associations in their site search activities. Surplus public sector assets—whether identified through the Public Sector Trawl or directly by asset owners—are assessed against local housing need and development potential.
I am also progressing work to bring a paper to the Executive around making better use of public land to support the supply of affordable housing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031991%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451126","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451126"}},{"id":"450832","reference":"AQW 31849/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-23","answerBy":"2025-10-08","answered":"2025-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the outcomes for the total number of individuals supported to access services funded by the Supporting People programme in each of the last five financial years, broken down by (a) thematic area; (b) primary client group; and (c) type of service; and (ii) this number as a percentage of the total number of individuals supported recorded for each of the outcomes set out in the Supporting People Outcomes Framework.","answerText":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031849%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450832","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450832"}},{"id":"450831","reference":"AQW 31848/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-23","answerBy":"2025-10-08","answered":"2025-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of individuals his Department estimates work in services provided through the Supporting People programme, broken down by (i) Supporting People thematic area; and (ii) primary client group.","answerText":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031848%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450831","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450831"}},{"id":"450470","reference":"AQW 31735/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-22","answerBy":"2025-10-07","answered":"2025-10-07","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 number of individuals who have accessed the Public Health Agency needle exchange service pilot in four temporary accommodation hostels, in each financial year since 2023-24; and (ii) whether his Department plans to continue with the pilot.","answerText":"The provision of harm reduction services within Northern Ireland is facilitated by the Public Health Agency (PHA). The PHA work alongside other statutory agencies, community pharmacies, community and voluntary organisations, low threshold services, and hostels to provide the Needle and Syringe Service (NSES) and Take Home Naloxone (THN) programme across the region. PHA use an online Harm Reduction Information System called Neo360 to capture live data on needle exchange and naloxone transactions across all sites. All data captured is anonymous and non-identifiable.\n\nThe PHA have opened needle exchanges within 3 temporary accommodation hostels, and one drop-in facility, for people experiencing homelessness. This service is not public facing and is only accessible to the service users of the relevant organisation.\n\nThe Welcome Organisation, Ann’s Gate Hostel installed two token-operated vending machines in July 2024 which dispensed needle exchange kits. These vending machines have been relocated with the service to Glenview in 2025. The number of individuals who use this service is not monitored as part of the Harm Reduction Information System for Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Welcome Organisation Drop in Service was an out-of-hours, outreach only service which had been in place since October 2020. The planned expansion of this service to include a stationary site at Townsend Street was halted with the site closing in October 2024. Following relocation and additional staff training this site is now preparing to re-open needle exchange.\n\nQueen’s Quarter Housing opened a needle exchange in May 2023, however, due to high staff turnover the site closed in March 2024. This site has now re-engaged with PHA and are preparing to re-open needle exchange.\n\nExtern’s Ormeau Centre opened needle exchange in July 2024 and remains opened.\n\nIn 2023-2024, 602 unique service users accessed these sites for needle exchange.\n\nIn 2024- 2025, 447 unique service users accessed these sites for needle exchange.\n\nThese sites are no longer within the pilot phase. The pilot has demonstrated the viability of NSES being placed within temporary accommodation provision. The PHA continues to work with all hostels where there is evidence of a need for needle and syringe exchange services and to consider the most appropriate type of service provision to reduce the spread of blood borne viruses, reduce needle discards and engage people who inject drugs in harm reduction services.","answerHtml":"The provision of harm reduction services within Northern Ireland is facilitated by the Public Health Agency (PHA). The PHA work alongside other statutory agencies, community pharmacies, community and voluntary organisations, low threshold services, and hostels to provide the Needle and Syringe Service (NSES) and Take Home Naloxone (THN) programme across the region. PHA use an online Harm Reduction Information System called Neo360 to capture live data on needle exchange and naloxone transactions across all sites. All data captured is anonymous and non-identifiable.
The PHA have opened needle exchanges within 3 temporary accommodation hostels, and one drop-in facility, for people experiencing homelessness. This service is not public facing and is only accessible to the service users of the relevant organisation.
The Welcome Organisation, Ann’s Gate Hostel installed two token-operated vending machines in July 2024 which dispensed needle exchange kits. These vending machines have been relocated with the service to Glenview in 2025. The number of individuals who use this service is not monitored as part of the Harm Reduction Information System for Northern Ireland.
The Welcome Organisation Drop in Service was an out-of-hours, outreach only service which had been in place since October 2020. The planned expansion of this service to include a stationary site at Townsend Street was halted with the site closing in October 2024. Following relocation and additional staff training this site is now preparing to re-open needle exchange.
Queen’s Quarter Housing opened a needle exchange in May 2023, however, due to high staff turnover the site closed in March 2024. This site has now re-engaged with PHA and are preparing to re-open needle exchange.
Extern’s Ormeau Centre opened needle exchange in July 2024 and remains opened.
In 2023-2024, 602 unique service users accessed these sites for needle exchange.
In 2024- 2025, 447 unique service users accessed these sites for needle exchange.
These sites are no longer within the pilot phase. The pilot has demonstrated the viability of NSES being placed within temporary accommodation provision. The PHA continues to work with all hostels where there is evidence of a need for needle and syringe exchange services and to consider the most appropriate type of service provision to reduce the spread of blood borne viruses, reduce needle discards and engage people who inject drugs in harm reduction services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031735%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450470","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450470"}},{"id":"450469","reference":"AQW 31734/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-22","answerBy":"2025-10-07","answered":"2025-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of Major Adverse Incidents recorded by Supporting People providers, in each of the last five years, including 2024-25, broken down by (a) type of adverse incident; (b) Supporting People thematic group; and (c) primary client group.","answerText":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031734%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450469","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450469"}},{"id":"450468","reference":"AQW 31733/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-22","answerBy":"2025-10-07","answered":"2025-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of individuals; (ii) the number of providers; and (iii) the number of services, supported through Supporting People-funded services, in each of the last five financial years, broken down by (a) Supporting People thematic group; (b) primary client group; and (c) local council area.","answerText":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031733%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450468","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450468"}},{"id":"450467","reference":"AQW 31732/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-22","answerBy":"2025-10-07","answered":"2025-11-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the amount of unspent Supporting People funding from 2024-25 that has been recouped in the 2025-26 financial year, broken down by (a) thematic area; (b) primary client group; and (c) type of service.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“Recoupments from 2024/25 have not yet occurred in the 2025/26 year. The Supporting People team are in the process of managing 2024/25 provider financial returns and recoupments of unspent Supporting People grant funding will be considered following this process.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“Recoupments from 2024/25 have not yet occurred in the 2025/26 year. The Supporting People team are in the process of managing 2024/25 provider financial returns and recoupments of unspent Supporting People grant funding will be considered following this process.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031732%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450467","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450467"}},{"id":"450466","reference":"AQW 31731/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-22","answerBy":"2025-10-07","answered":"2025-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department plans to seek funding for the Provider Innovation Fund under the Supporting People programme in (i) 2025-26; and (ii) in bids for the upcoming multi-year budget.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Housing Executive continues to bid for Provider Innovation Funding, and I will continue to support these bids. However, due to the constrained budget the bids for 2025-26 have been unsuccessful.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Housing Executive continues to bid for Provider Innovation Funding, and I will continue to support these bids. However, due to the constrained budget the bids for 2025-26 have been unsuccessful.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031731%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450466","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450466"}},{"id":"450183","reference":"AQW 31622/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-19","answerBy":"2025-10-06","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 to detail (i) the standard of transport boxes procured for school meals; (ii) whether the transport boxes are solely insulated boxes or the type that can be powered to reheat; (iii) the number of each type of box, used to transport school meals across Northern Ireland, broken down by central production kitchens.","answerText":"The Food Standards Agency (FSA) does not stipulate the specifications of a box used to transport food. The FSA states the appropriate temperatures that different food type should be at when its holding state. All food products supplied by the Education Authority (EA), either chilled, ambient or hot, are transported in insulated sealed boxes which are specially designed for the transport of meals from production centres. The EA uses both insulated and digital reheat boxes for the delivery of transported meals.\n\nAll transport boxes use by the EA are of the highest specification available with one-piece seamless, double walled, high density polyethylene construction. All boxes have a sealable lid to ensure temperature control is maintained. The boxes keep products at the required holding temperature for four hours.\n\nThe EA has 579 production kitchens delivering meals to 494 dining centres across Northern Ireland. The number of boxes used each day is dependent on the menu. The EA estimates that it has 12 transporting boxes per dining centre and therefore up to a total of 5,928 boxes are in use within the EA at present.","answerHtml":"The Food Standards Agency (FSA) does not stipulate the specifications of a box used to transport food. The FSA states the appropriate temperatures that different food type should be at when its holding state. All food products supplied by the Education Authority (EA), either chilled, ambient or hot, are transported in insulated sealed boxes which are specially designed for the transport of meals from production centres. The EA uses both insulated and digital reheat boxes for the delivery of transported meals.
All transport boxes use by the EA are of the highest specification available with one-piece seamless, double walled, high density polyethylene construction. All boxes have a sealable lid to ensure temperature control is maintained. The boxes keep products at the required holding temperature for four hours.
The EA has 579 production kitchens delivering meals to 494 dining centres across Northern Ireland. The number of boxes used each day is dependent on the menu. The EA estimates that it has 12 transporting boxes per dining centre and therefore up to a total of 5,928 boxes are in use within the EA at present.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031622%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450183","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450183"}},{"id":"450182","reference":"AQW 31621/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-19","answerBy":"2025-10-06","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 to detail (i) when the last review of school meals was completed, to test whether meals provided by a central kitchen are arriving at an appropriate temperature, as per The Food Hygiene Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006; (ii) where the records confirming delivery temperature are kept; and (iii) whether these records are available for public scrutiny.","answerText":"The Education Authority’s (EA) Catering Service carry out temperature checks every day as per the HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) guidelines, in line with Food Standards Agency requirements and the requirements of the Food Hygiene Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006. Temperature checks are carried out on the delivery, storage, preparation, holding and service of all food products. In addition, transported food items are temperature checked on arrival at the dining centres and before they are served.\n\nIn accordance with environmental health requirements, temperature records are kept in the relevant production kitchen and the receiving dining centre for a 12-month period.\n\nTemperature records form part of internal audits carried out the by EA Catering’s Quality Assurance Team. Councils’ Environmental Health Officers will also check on temperature records during inspection visits. Anyone wishing to view temperature records should engage in the first instance with EA Catering.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority’s (EA) Catering Service carry out temperature checks every day as per the HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) guidelines, in line with Food Standards Agency requirements and the requirements of the Food Hygiene Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006. Temperature checks are carried out on the delivery, storage, preparation, holding and service of all food products. In addition, transported food items are temperature checked on arrival at the dining centres and before they are served.
In accordance with environmental health requirements, temperature records are kept in the relevant production kitchen and the receiving dining centre for a 12-month period.
Temperature records form part of internal audits carried out the by EA Catering’s Quality Assurance Team. Councils’ Environmental Health Officers will also check on temperature records during inspection visits. Anyone wishing to view temperature records should engage in the first instance with EA Catering.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031621%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450182","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450182"}},{"id":"450181","reference":"AQW 31620/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-19","answerBy":"2025-10-06","answered":"2025-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) when the last review was undertaken on (a) the number of chefs or cooks, per central production kitchens; and (b) their workload; and (ii) what is the policy on the number of schools, per chef or cook permitted.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the employment of its catering staff, including determining the number of staff required, their working hours and their deployment based on the number of children and young people using its school meals service. The EA aligns its delivery of these responsibilities with its relevant guidelines.\n\nAn EA school meals kitchen that produces up to 200 meals per day will be allocated a catering manager. For every additional 200 meals produced in a kitchen, an additional cook will be allocated by the EA. This allocation of staff resource is based upon the number of meals to be produced by the kitchen and is not influenced by whether these meals are for consumption onsite or transported to another school. The EA reviews the numbers of meals produced in each school kitchen on a monthly basis to ensure appropriate allocation of staffing resources.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the employment of its catering staff, including determining the number of staff required, their working hours and their deployment based on the number of children and young people using its school meals service. The EA aligns its delivery of these responsibilities with its relevant guidelines.
An EA school meals kitchen that produces up to 200 meals per day will be allocated a catering manager. For every additional 200 meals produced in a kitchen, an additional cook will be allocated by the EA. This allocation of staff resource is based upon the number of meals to be produced by the kitchen and is not influenced by whether these meals are for consumption onsite or transported to another school. The EA reviews the numbers of meals produced in each school kitchen on a monthly basis to ensure appropriate allocation of staffing resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031620%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450181","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450181"}},{"id":"450180","reference":"AQW 31619/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-19","answerBy":"2025-10-06","answered":"2025-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) whether he will review the number of catering staff in each central production kitchen; and (ii) the number of school hubs being catered for per chef or cook.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the employment of its catering staff, including determining the number of staff required, their working hours and their deployment based on the number of children and young people using its school meals service. The EA aligns its delivery of these responsibilities with its relevant guidelines.\n\nAn EA school meals kitchen that produces up to 200 meals per day will be allocated a catering manager. For every additional 200 meals produced in a kitchen, an additional cook will be allocated by the EA. This allocation of staff resource is based upon the number of meals to be produced by the kitchen and is not influenced by whether these meals are for consumption onsite or transported to another school. The EA reviews the numbers of meals produced in each school kitchen on a monthly basis to ensure appropriate allocation of staffing resources.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the employment of its catering staff, including determining the number of staff required, their working hours and their deployment based on the number of children and young people using its school meals service. The EA aligns its delivery of these responsibilities with its relevant guidelines.
An EA school meals kitchen that produces up to 200 meals per day will be allocated a catering manager. For every additional 200 meals produced in a kitchen, an additional cook will be allocated by the EA. This allocation of staff resource is based upon the number of meals to be produced by the kitchen and is not influenced by whether these meals are for consumption onsite or transported to another school. The EA reviews the numbers of meals produced in each school kitchen on a monthly basis to ensure appropriate allocation of staffing resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031619%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450180","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450180"}},{"id":"450179","reference":"AQW 31618/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-19","answerBy":"2025-10-06","answered":"2025-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether all school meals, transported by bus or taxi, are contained in appropriate transport boxes that comply with Food Standards Agency requirements.","answerText":"The Food Standards Agency (FSA) does not stipulate the specifications of a box used to transport food. The FSA states the appropriate temperatures that different food type should be at when its holding state. All food products supplied by the Education Authority (EA), either chilled, ambient or hot, are transported in insulated sealed boxes which are specially designed for the transport of meals from production centres. The EA uses both insulated and digital reheat boxes for the delivery of transported meals.\n\nAll transport boxes use by the EA are of the highest specification available with one-piece seamless, double walled, high density polyethylene construction. All boxes have a sealable lid to ensure temperature control is maintained. The boxes keep products at the required holding temperature for four hours.\n\nThe EA has 579 production kitchens delivering meals to 494 dining centres across Northern Ireland. The number of boxes used each day is dependent on the menu. The EA estimates that it has 12 transporting boxes per dining centre and therefore up to a total of 5,928 boxes are in use within the EA at present.","answerHtml":"The Food Standards Agency (FSA) does not stipulate the specifications of a box used to transport food. The FSA states the appropriate temperatures that different food type should be at when its holding state. All food products supplied by the Education Authority (EA), either chilled, ambient or hot, are transported in insulated sealed boxes which are specially designed for the transport of meals from production centres. The EA uses both insulated and digital reheat boxes for the delivery of transported meals.
All transport boxes use by the EA are of the highest specification available with one-piece seamless, double walled, high density polyethylene construction. All boxes have a sealable lid to ensure temperature control is maintained. The boxes keep products at the required holding temperature for four hours.
The EA has 579 production kitchens delivering meals to 494 dining centres across Northern Ireland. The number of boxes used each day is dependent on the menu. The EA estimates that it has 12 transporting boxes per dining centre and therefore up to a total of 5,928 boxes are in use within the EA at present.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031618%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450179","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450179"}},{"id":"449893","reference":"AQW 31428/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-17","answerBy":"2025-10-02","answered":"2025-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to clarify the term rolling funding, as promoted during his responses to questions on his statement on the Olympic Legacy Fund on 16 September 2025; and (ii) to detail if he has agreement that any underspent funding can be taken forward across financial years.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Sport NI, which will be responsible for delivering the Olympic Legacy Fund on behalf of my Department.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Olympic Legacy Fund is a rolling programme within this financial year (2025/26). Unlike a traditional grant programme with a short application window, the Olympic Legacy Fund will remain open from now until the end of the financial year, or until the full programme budget has been exhausted. However, all funding must be committed by 31st March 2026.\n\n“Sport NI do not anticipate any underspent funding from the Olympic Legacy Fund. However, there is no agreement that any underspent funding can be taken forward across financial years.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Sport NI, which will be responsible for delivering the Olympic Legacy Fund on behalf of my Department.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Olympic Legacy Fund is a rolling programme within this financial year (2025/26). Unlike a traditional grant programme with a short application window, the Olympic Legacy Fund will remain open from now until the end of the financial year, or until the full programme budget has been exhausted. However, all funding must be committed by 31st March 2026.
“Sport NI do not anticipate any underspent funding from the Olympic Legacy Fund. However, there is no agreement that any underspent funding can be taken forward across financial years.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031428%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449893","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449893"}},{"id":"449892","reference":"AQW 31427/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-17","answerBy":"2025-10-02","answered":"2025-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail if not-for-profit organisations applying to the Olympic Legacy Fund can chose not to use Crowdfunder UK to raise their 35 per cent portion of costs.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Sport NI, which will be responsible for delivering the Olympic Legacy Fund on behalf of my Department.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“Not-for-profit organisations applying to the Olympic Legacy Fund must use Crowdfunder UK to raise 100% of project costs. Subject to a project meeting the conditions of award, Sport NI will pledge 65% of project costs to an applicant’s crowd funding campaign. The remaining 35% must be raised through pledges from the applicant’s ‘crowd’ (or community).”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Sport NI, which will be responsible for delivering the Olympic Legacy Fund on behalf of my Department.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“Not-for-profit organisations applying to the Olympic Legacy Fund must use Crowdfunder UK to raise 100% of project costs. Subject to a project meeting the conditions of award, Sport NI will pledge 65% of project costs to an applicant’s crowd funding campaign. The remaining 35% must be raised through pledges from the applicant’s ‘crowd’ (or community).”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031427%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449892","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449892"}},{"id":"449891","reference":"AQW 31426/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-17","answerBy":"2025-10-02","answered":"2025-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail what procurement processes were followed to identify and decide Crowdfunder UK as the fundraising platform the Department for Communities is using for the Olympic Legacy Fund.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Sport NI, which will be responsible for delivering the Olympic Legacy Fund on behalf of my Department.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“On 1st April 2024, Sport Northern Ireland awarded a contract to Crowdfunder UK for cloud-based software/hosting to support grant administration. Crowdfunder UK were procured using Crown Commercial Services ‘G-Cloud 13 Call-Off Contract’ and have been contracted for 36-months (until 31st March 2027) with an optional 12-month extension. The Olympic Legacy Fund has been appended to services delivered, as per terms and conditions of contract.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Sport NI, which will be responsible for delivering the Olympic Legacy Fund on behalf of my Department.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“On 1st April 2024, Sport Northern Ireland awarded a contract to Crowdfunder UK for cloud-based software/hosting to support grant administration. Crowdfunder UK were procured using Crown Commercial Services ‘G-Cloud 13 Call-Off Contract’ and have been contracted for 36-months (until 31st March 2027) with an optional 12-month extension. The Olympic Legacy Fund has been appended to services delivered, as per terms and conditions of contract.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031426%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449891","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449891"}},{"id":"449890","reference":"AQW 31425/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-17","answerBy":"2025-10-02","answered":"2025-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail a breakdown of the amount spent (i) to maintain the fleet of school buses operated by the Education Authority (EA); and (ii) on new buses for the EA fleet, in each of the past ten years.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised me that due to its retention policy, financial records are only available for the past seven financial years.\n\n(i) The amount spent to maintain the EA school bus fleet in each of the last seven financial years is detailed in the table below:\n\nFinancial Year\tMaintenance costs for EA school bus fleet\n2018/2019\t£5,058,950\n2019/2020\t£5,643,976\n2020/2021\t£3,899,696\n2021/2022\t£4,664,891\n2022/2023\t£5,020,750\n2023/2024\t£5,751,304\n2024/2025\t£6,642,178\n\n(ii) The amount spent on purchasing school buses for the EA fleet in each of the last seven financial years is detailed in the table below:\n\nFinancial Year\tAmount spent on purchasing new EA buses\n2019/2020\t£2,099,000\n2020/2021\t£13,248,000\n2021/2022\t£19,735,000\n2022/2023\t£5,744,000\n2023/2024\t£75,000\n2024/2025\t£2,594,000","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised me that due to its retention policy, financial records are only available for the past seven financial years.
(i) The amount spent to maintain the EA school bus fleet in each of the last seven financial years is detailed in the table below:
| Financial Year | Maintenance costs for EA school bus fleet |
| 2018/2019 | £5,058,950 |
| 2019/2020 | £5,643,976 |
| 2020/2021 | £3,899,696 |
| 2021/2022 | £4,664,891 |
| 2022/2023 | £5,020,750 |
| 2023/2024 | £5,751,304 |
| 2024/2025 | £6,642,178 |
(ii) The amount spent on purchasing school buses for the EA fleet in each of the last seven financial years is detailed in the table below:
| Financial Year | Amount spent on purchasing new EA buses |
| 2019/2020 | £2,099,000 |
| 2020/2021 | £13,248,000 |
| 2021/2022 | £19,735,000 |
| 2022/2023 | £5,744,000 |
| 2023/2024 | £75,000 |
| 2024/2025 | £2,594,000 |
My Department takes the following actions to support those living with food insecurity:
Leading on the Executive Anti-Poverty Strategy which contains a range of interventions which will help mitigate impacts, reduce the risk of falling into poverty and support all those impacted to exit poverty, including those who are living with food insecurity.
Provides annual funding in the region of £7.6m to the independent advice and debt sector which play a critical role in addressing poverty.
Consulting on a refreshed Support Framework for Independent Advice and Debt Services. This will strengthen collaboration and improved referral pathways with other community supports including food banks and social supermarkets to ensure citizens have early access to advice services for holistic sustainable outcomes.
Allocating in the region of £2.86 million for 2025/26 to support Social Supermarket projects in each Council area.
Administers the unique Discretionary Support Scheme to provide short-term financial support by way of interest free loans or non-repayable grants, to help with living expenses and essential household items as per below. https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/finance-support
Delivers a wide range of employability support through our frontline Jobs and Benefits Offices and employment programmes.
Offers free and confidential needs assessments for individuals to check potential entitlements to social security benefits, additional support and services through Make the Call Service.
The NI Housing Executive assists tenants who are struggling financially and can trigger the delivery of the Making Your Money Work service to mitigate the immediate impacts of financial issues which create food insecurity/poverty.
The NI Housing Executive administers the Sustaining Tenancies Grant Funding Programme to voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations to deliver projects that support the sustainability and resilience of Housing Executive tenancies.
The NI Housing Executive administers the Homeless Prevention Fund to alleviate and prevent homelessness for customers presenting to front line teams.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031296%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449719","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449719"}},{"id":"449718","reference":"AQW 31295/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-16","answerBy":"2025-10-01","answered":"2025-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will provide a copy of the business case detailing the rationale for the addition of the post of Director of Mechanisms of Government for the Department for Communities.","answerText":"The Director of Machinery of Government post was established in May 2023 following the realignment of business areas within the Department. A business case was not required, as the role was funded through the suppression of other posts that were deemed surplus to requirements.","answerHtml":"The Director of Machinery of Government post was established in May 2023 following the realignment of business areas within the Department. A business case was not required, as the role was funded through the suppression of other posts that were deemed surplus to requirements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031295%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449718","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449718"}},{"id":"449717","reference":"AQW 31294/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-16","answerBy":"2025-10-01","answered":"2025-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he will provide a copy of the job description and terms and conditions for the position of Director of Mechanisms of Government.","answerText":"A copy of the Candidate Information Booklet for IRC316271, Director of Machinery of Government is attached separately and can be viewed in the Assembly Library. This booklet contains information about the main duties and responsibilities of the role (P10) and terms and conditions (P17-20).\n\nFurther information is also available in the Civil Service Handbook available at https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/articles/northern-ireland-civil-service-handbook.","answerHtml":"A copy of the Candidate Information Booklet for IRC316271, Director of Machinery of Government is attached separately and can be viewed in the Assembly Library. This booklet contains information about the main duties and responsibilities of the role (P10) and terms and conditions (P17-20).
Further information is also available in the Civil Service Handbook available at https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/articles/northern-ireland-civil-service-handbook.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031294%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449717","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449717"}},{"id":"449716","reference":"AQW 31293/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-16","answerBy":"2025-10-01","answered":"2025-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to confirm what support will be provided to football clubs that do not have a home ground and were unsuccessful in applying for stadia funding under the Northern Ireland Football Fund, such as Ards FC.","answerText":"All clubs who were not selected in the prioritised cohort have been offered the opportunity to contact my officials to arrange a meeting to discuss their applications and receive feedback.\n\nI have also offered to meet those unsuccessful clubs who feel such a meeting would be beneficial and am due to meet representatives from Ards football club shortly.","answerHtml":"All clubs who were not selected in the prioritised cohort have been offered the opportunity to contact my officials to arrange a meeting to discuss their applications and receive feedback.
I have also offered to meet those unsuccessful clubs who feel such a meeting would be beneficial and am due to meet representatives from Ards football club shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031293%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449716","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449716"}},{"id":"448862","reference":"AQW 30845/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-10","answerBy":"2025-09-25","answered":"2025-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he will commit to (i) reviewing the Home to School transport arrangements for children living in temporary accommodation, to ensure these children are able to access school without facing additional costs; and (ii) updating this as an action in the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan.","answerText":"The Department of Education (DE) is responsible for the Home to School Transport Policy and the Education Authority (EA) for the operation and delivery of school transport. The EA assesses applications for transport assistance based on a pupil’s current home address, in line with the DE policy, and when families move house or school during the school year they must submit a new application for transport.\n\nThe DE transport policy acknowledges that the application of the criteria in the general transport policy may not always be appropriate and therefore it enables the EA to consider cases where transport may need to be provided in exceptional circumstances, which can include where a family is forced to relocate to a temporary address at short notice for reasons beyond their control.\n\nEach family's circumstances are different and I am content that the EA’s exceptional circumstances process is an appropriate way in which it can consider each case on an individual basis and where needed, provide transport assistance for pupils experiencing homelessness and those living in temporary accommodation. I will, however, consider if further actions relating to the support provided for children and young people to enable them to access education in these difficult circumstances should be included in the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education (DE) is responsible for the Home to School Transport Policy and the Education Authority (EA) for the operation and delivery of school transport. The EA assesses applications for transport assistance based on a pupil’s current home address, in line with the DE policy, and when families move house or school during the school year they must submit a new application for transport.
The DE transport policy acknowledges that the application of the criteria in the general transport policy may not always be appropriate and therefore it enables the EA to consider cases where transport may need to be provided in exceptional circumstances, which can include where a family is forced to relocate to a temporary address at short notice for reasons beyond their control.
Each family's circumstances are different and I am content that the EA’s exceptional circumstances process is an appropriate way in which it can consider each case on an individual basis and where needed, provide transport assistance for pupils experiencing homelessness and those living in temporary accommodation. I will, however, consider if further actions relating to the support provided for children and young people to enable them to access education in these difficult circumstances should be included in the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030845%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448862","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448862"}},{"id":"448861","reference":"AQW 30844/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-10","answerBy":"2025-09-25","answered":"2025-12-16","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 to provide a copy of the assigned responsibilities given to each of the Junior Ministers, in this mandate.","answerText":"Junior Ministers are appointed under a Determination made in accordance with Section 19 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 which specifies that the function of the Junior Ministers is to assist the First Minister and deputy First Minister in the exercise of their functions in relation to The Executive Office. They may therefore be involved in all aspects of the department’s work.\n\nJunior Ministers have specific responsibility for taking the Inquiry (Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses) and Redress Scheme Bill through its Assembly legislative stages. They also chair the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Oversight Board. The Board reviews the implementation of the Strategic Framework, related Delivery Plans, and manages interfaces across government Departments and the public sector.\n\nIn addition, Junior Ministers work has included two visits to The Executive Office in Brussels; speaking to Motions in the Assembly; answering Oral Questions during Question Time to the First Minister and deputy First Minister; attending Business\n\nCommittee on behalf of the Executive; and meeting with stakeholders associated with key Executive objectives such as Good Relations projects and the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls strategy. They regularly engage in significant work with NSMC and BIC Institutional bodies.","answerHtml":"Junior Ministers are appointed under a Determination made in accordance with Section 19 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 which specifies that the function of the Junior Ministers is to assist the First Minister and deputy First Minister in the exercise of their functions in relation to The Executive Office. They may therefore be involved in all aspects of the department’s work.
Junior Ministers have specific responsibility for taking the Inquiry (Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses) and Redress Scheme Bill through its Assembly legislative stages. They also chair the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Oversight Board. The Board reviews the implementation of the Strategic Framework, related Delivery Plans, and manages interfaces across government Departments and the public sector.
In addition, Junior Ministers work has included two visits to The Executive Office in Brussels; speaking to Motions in the Assembly; answering Oral Questions during Question Time to the First Minister and deputy First Minister; attending Business
Committee on behalf of the Executive; and meeting with stakeholders associated with key Executive objectives such as Good Relations projects and the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls strategy. They regularly engage in significant work with NSMC and BIC Institutional bodies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030844%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448861","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448861"}},{"id":"448860","reference":"AQW 30843/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-10","answerBy":"2025-09-25","answered":"2025-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to provide a copy of any guidance provided to (i) the Executive; or (ii) their Departmental Finance officers regarding (a) cross departmental programmes; and (b) related budget lines.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nIn April 2025 my officials published Guidance to Departments on Pooling of Budgets, however there are other guidance documents available that may relate to (a) cross departmental programmes; and (b) related budget lines. These are listed below:\n\nManaging Public Money NI\n\nConsolidated Budgeting Guidance 2025-2026\n\n2025-26 In-Year Monitoring of Public Expenditure Guidelines\n\nDear Accounting Officer letters\n\nFinance Director letters","answerHtml":"ANSWER
In April 2025 my officials published Guidance to Departments on Pooling of Budgets, however there are other guidance documents available that may relate to (a) cross departmental programmes; and (b) related budget lines. These are listed below:
Managing Public Money NI
Consolidated Budgeting Guidance 2025-2026
2025-26 In-Year Monitoring of Public Expenditure Guidelines
Dear Accounting Officer letters
Finance Director letters
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030843%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448860","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448860"}},{"id":"448859","reference":"AQW 30842/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-10","answerBy":"2025-09-25","answered":"2025-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) when a review of speeding fines will be undertaken; and (ii) why a speeding fine is less than an on-street parking fine.","answerText":"I have recently received briefing and advice from officials on a number of speeding related measures, including a review of penalty fines for speeding. I am now considering the next steps and way forward.","answerHtml":"I have recently received briefing and advice from officials on a number of speeding related measures, including a review of penalty fines for speeding. I am now considering the next steps and way forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030842%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448859","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448859"}},{"id":"448858","reference":"AQW 30841/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-10","answerBy":"2025-09-25","answered":"2025-09-29","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 whether he will reinstate the Northern Ireland Environment Agency signs confirming the Area of Special Scientific Interest that stretches from behind the New Quays, Portavogie to the short walkway and on to South Shore at Ratallagh, Cloughey.","answerText":"Earlier NIEA signage at this location was temporarily erected at Outer Ards Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI), due to a number of fly tipping incidents and to provide details for the public to report any concerns. While one sign on the dunes at the Southern Shore was removed in April 2023, after falling over due to the exposed location and unstable substrate, the other signs were checked recently and remain in position. NIEA is not required under the Environment Order to install or replace ASSI signage.\n\nMy officials are engaging with Ards and North Down Borough Council (ANDBC), which has advised of its plans to install permanent environment and educational signage along the Outer Ards Coast, including Portavogie Dunes, Ratallagh. ANDBC has agreed with NIEA officials to include details on its coastal signage for reporting any concerns about Outer Ards ASSI to NIEA.","answerHtml":"Earlier NIEA signage at this location was temporarily erected at Outer Ards Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI), due to a number of fly tipping incidents and to provide details for the public to report any concerns. While one sign on the dunes at the Southern Shore was removed in April 2023, after falling over due to the exposed location and unstable substrate, the other signs were checked recently and remain in position. NIEA is not required under the Environment Order to install or replace ASSI signage.
My officials are engaging with Ards and North Down Borough Council (ANDBC), which has advised of its plans to install permanent environment and educational signage along the Outer Ards Coast, including Portavogie Dunes, Ratallagh. ANDBC has agreed with NIEA officials to include details on its coastal signage for reporting any concerns about Outer Ards ASSI to NIEA.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030841%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448858"}},{"id":"448466","reference":"AQW 30578/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-08","answerBy":"2025-09-23","answered":"2025-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) an update on the review of the operation and charging mechanisms of property management companies and letting agencies; (ii) what penalties are being considered; (iii) how the industry will be monitored and (iv) who will be responsible for such monitoring.","answerText":"My Department conducted a detailed scoping report relating to the issue of shared property management including the operation of property management companies. That report explored the issue of service charges and outlined options as to how the industry could be regulated.\n\nI have considered this work and accept that reform is desirable. I am engaging with my officials to determine what further progress can be made on the regulation of shared property matters.\n\nThe operation and charging mechanisms of letting agencies, including how they may be monitored is a matter for the Minister for Communities. I understand that there are no plans for regulation in this area at this time.","answerHtml":"My Department conducted a detailed scoping report relating to the issue of shared property management including the operation of property management companies. That report explored the issue of service charges and outlined options as to how the industry could be regulated.
I have considered this work and accept that reform is desirable. I am engaging with my officials to determine what further progress can be made on the regulation of shared property matters.
The operation and charging mechanisms of letting agencies, including how they may be monitored is a matter for the Minister for Communities. I understand that there are no plans for regulation in this area at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030578%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448466","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448466"}},{"id":"448465","reference":"AQW 30577/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-08","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 detail the preparations being put in place to invest in appropriate measures to provide accommodation for people who are homeless before winter 2025-26.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive will continue to meet its statutory duties under the Housing (NI) Order 1988. Anyone who is statutorily homeless will be provided with temporary accommodation. The Housing Executive is regularly engaging with a range of partners to expand its portfolio of temporary accommodation.\n\nThe Housing Executive also engages with partners to deliver the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP). The SWEP ensures availability of accommodation to individuals sleeping rough when there is an increased risk of death due to the weather e.g. temperatures fall near or below freezing. The Housing Executive monitors weather conditions as part of SWEP arrangements and upon the requirement for a SWEP, will engage with providers to deliver additional provision via options such as crash beds.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive will continue to meet its statutory duties under the Housing (NI) Order 1988. Anyone who is statutorily homeless will be provided with temporary accommodation. The Housing Executive is regularly engaging with a range of partners to expand its portfolio of temporary accommodation.
The Housing Executive also engages with partners to deliver the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP). The SWEP ensures availability of accommodation to individuals sleeping rough when there is an increased risk of death due to the weather e.g. temperatures fall near or below freezing. The Housing Executive monitors weather conditions as part of SWEP arrangements and upon the requirement for a SWEP, will engage with providers to deliver additional provision via options such as crash beds.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030577%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448465","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448465"}},{"id":"448464","reference":"AQW 30576/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-08","answerBy":"2025-09-23","answered":"2025-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any discussions he has had with (i) the Minister of Finance; and (ii) Minister for Infrastructure, to ensure building regulations are updated to (a) reduce carbon emissions, (b) meet the highest practicable Energy Performance Certificate standards and (c) deliver climate change requirements.","answerText":"While I have not had any direct discussions with the Ministers for Finance or Infrastructure about Building Regulations, I would refer you back to my response on AQW 29871/22-27, which detailed numerous regular cross departmental meetings during which this subject was discussed.\n\nUpdating Building Regulations is however a cross-cutting subject which impacts several departments. Any proposed updates should therefore come before the Executive for consideration and agreement.","answerHtml":"While I have not had any direct discussions with the Ministers for Finance or Infrastructure about Building Regulations, I would refer you back to my response on AQW 29871/22-27, which detailed numerous regular cross departmental meetings during which this subject was discussed.
Updating Building Regulations is however a cross-cutting subject which impacts several departments. Any proposed updates should therefore come before the Executive for consideration and agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030576%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448464","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448464"}},{"id":"448463","reference":"AQW 30575/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-08","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 provide an update on how his Department will meet climate change objectives, particularly moving social homes away from home heating oil usage.","answerText":"In line with the requirements of the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, my Department will exercise its functions, so far as is possible to do so, in a manner that is consistent with the achievement of the emissions targets of the Act.\n\nIn relation to social homes, a review of the Decent Homes Standard is underway. Currently, the Standard requires social housing providers to ensure that homes have ‘efficient heating’ but does not specify the heating system type. If a social housing provider is updating a heating system in a property, then the provider must comply with current Building Regulations, which are the responsibility of the Department of Finance.","answerHtml":"In line with the requirements of the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, my Department will exercise its functions, so far as is possible to do so, in a manner that is consistent with the achievement of the emissions targets of the Act.
In relation to social homes, a review of the Decent Homes Standard is underway. Currently, the Standard requires social housing providers to ensure that homes have ‘efficient heating’ but does not specify the heating system type. If a social housing provider is updating a heating system in a property, then the provider must comply with current Building Regulations, which are the responsibility of the Department of Finance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030575%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448463","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448463"}},{"id":"448462","reference":"AQW 30574/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-08","answerBy":"2025-09-23","answered":"2025-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any work being carried out with banks to create a more streamline and relevant application process for organisations in the Voluntary and Community Sector to update and open accounts.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nLegislative authority on banking matters is the responsibility of the Treasury.\n\nI have raised the difficulties the community and voluntary sector are experiencing in maintaining and opening banks accounts directly with the then Chief Secretary to the Treasury in March 2025, when I wrote to him sharing my department’s published 2024 Banking Roundtable summary report. Given its legislative authority on banking matters, I asked the Treasury to work to provide solutions to the issues being encountered by the Voluntary and Community Sector.\n\nThrough my officials’ engagement with UK Finance, the banking industry body, it has advised that it launched the Voluntary Organisation Banking Guide in July last year. This is a dedicated website developed in collaboration with several charity and voluntary groups, regulators, and 13 banks offering tailored guidance on structuring, opening, and managing accounts. In addition, the Charity Finance Group (CFG) hosts a Charity Banking Forum whereby banks meet on a quarterly basis with a network of charity and voluntary organisations, to discuss ongoing challenges that the banks and sector can collaborate on. I understand that NICVA and the local Chairty Commission are both represented on that. In July this year, the CFG published a new practical toolkit designed to support those charities that need to raise an issue or concern with their banks.\n\nHowever, I understand that the Community and Voluntary sector is still experiencing a range of banking issues. While NICVA have acknowledged to my officials that some banks are taking steps in the right direction, they have indicated that it is still too early to determine whether these changes will result in meaningful improvements for voluntary organisations.\n\nI will raise this issue at my Banking Roundtable event later this year where stakeholders from the Voluntary and Community and banking sectors will be in attendance.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
Legislative authority on banking matters is the responsibility of the Treasury.
I have raised the difficulties the community and voluntary sector are experiencing in maintaining and opening banks accounts directly with the then Chief Secretary to the Treasury in March 2025, when I wrote to him sharing my department’s published 2024 Banking Roundtable summary report. Given its legislative authority on banking matters, I asked the Treasury to work to provide solutions to the issues being encountered by the Voluntary and Community Sector.
Through my officials’ engagement with UK Finance, the banking industry body, it has advised that it launched the Voluntary Organisation Banking Guide in July last year. This is a dedicated website developed in collaboration with several charity and voluntary groups, regulators, and 13 banks offering tailored guidance on structuring, opening, and managing accounts. In addition, the Charity Finance Group (CFG) hosts a Charity Banking Forum whereby banks meet on a quarterly basis with a network of charity and voluntary organisations, to discuss ongoing challenges that the banks and sector can collaborate on. I understand that NICVA and the local Chairty Commission are both represented on that. In July this year, the CFG published a new practical toolkit designed to support those charities that need to raise an issue or concern with their banks.
However, I understand that the Community and Voluntary sector is still experiencing a range of banking issues. While NICVA have acknowledged to my officials that some banks are taking steps in the right direction, they have indicated that it is still too early to determine whether these changes will result in meaningful improvements for voluntary organisations.
I will raise this issue at my Banking Roundtable event later this year where stakeholders from the Voluntary and Community and banking sectors will be in attendance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030574%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448462","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448462"}},{"id":"448323","reference":"AQW 30476/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-05","answerBy":"2025-09-22","answered":"2025-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide the religion, including those who are of no faith, of children in every school, broken down by (i) church or named religion, (ii) school name; and (iii) school type including: (a) Controlled, (b) Maintained, (c) Integrated, (d) Controlled Integrated, (e) Voluntary Grammar, (f) Controlled Grammar, (g) Irish Medium; and (h) Controlled Irish Medium.","answerText":"The answer has been placed in the Assembly Library.\n\nReligion is classified as special category data under data protection legislation and therefore requires enhanced safeguards. Due to the risk of potential identification of individuals, the information at school level has been provided using five broader categories.\n\nInformation broken down by all religious categories has been provided by the specific management/school types requested for part (iii).","answerHtml":"The answer has been placed in the Assembly Library.
Religion is classified as special category data under data protection legislation and therefore requires enhanced safeguards. Due to the risk of potential identification of individuals, the information at school level has been provided using five broader categories.
Information broken down by all religious categories has been provided by the specific management/school types requested for part (iii).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030476%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448323","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448323"}},{"id":"448322","reference":"AQW 30475/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-05","answerBy":"2025-09-22","answered":"2025-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide an update on the negotiations with Treasury that he has indicated will enable the Housing Executive to finance a new build programme.","answerText":"The June 2025 Spending Review announcement confirmed that the UK Government and Northern Ireland Executive have agreed to immediately begin negotiations on a full Northern Ireland Executive Fiscal Framework, the scope of which will include Housing Executive borrowing.","answerHtml":"The June 2025 Spending Review announcement confirmed that the UK Government and Northern Ireland Executive have agreed to immediately begin negotiations on a full Northern Ireland Executive Fiscal Framework, the scope of which will include Housing Executive borrowing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030475%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448322","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448322"}},{"id":"448321","reference":"AQW 30474/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-05","answerBy":"2025-09-22","answered":"2025-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for a review of the impact of his removal of intimidation points from the social housing selection scheme; and (ii) to provide any evidence that the decision has led to appropriate ranking and allocation of social housing for those experiencing violence or risk of violence, or domestic abuse.","answerText":"The removal of Intimidation Points from the Housing Selection Scheme has ended the overriding priority that intimidation had over similar serious and enduring reasons for homelessness, enabling all those who are victims of violence or at risk of violence or abuse for any reason, including domestic abuse, to access the same categories of points in the Scheme.\n\nI am advised by the Housing Executive that a total of 226 Applicants were awarded Intimidation Points during 2023/24 out of a waiting list of 47,312 households, accounting for less than 0.5% of the Waiting List. At the time of removal of Rule 23 from the Scheme on 1st April 2025, 137 applicants were in receipt of Intimidation Points. As of 5th September 2025, 95 applicants were remaining on the Waiting List with Intimidation Points. Further changes to the Housing Selection Scheme, including a review of Primary Social Need points, are planned as part of the ongoing Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations and the cumulative impact of all changes will be examined when fully implemented.","answerHtml":"The removal of Intimidation Points from the Housing Selection Scheme has ended the overriding priority that intimidation had over similar serious and enduring reasons for homelessness, enabling all those who are victims of violence or at risk of violence or abuse for any reason, including domestic abuse, to access the same categories of points in the Scheme.
I am advised by the Housing Executive that a total of 226 Applicants were awarded Intimidation Points during 2023/24 out of a waiting list of 47,312 households, accounting for less than 0.5% of the Waiting List. At the time of removal of Rule 23 from the Scheme on 1st April 2025, 137 applicants were in receipt of Intimidation Points. As of 5th September 2025, 95 applicants were remaining on the Waiting List with Intimidation Points. Further changes to the Housing Selection Scheme, including a review of Primary Social Need points, are planned as part of the ongoing Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations and the cumulative impact of all changes will be examined when fully implemented.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030474%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448321","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448321"}},{"id":"448320","reference":"AQW 30473/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-05","answerBy":"2025-09-22","answered":"2025-09-23","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 patients in out-of-court settlements in each year since 2010, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The amount paid to patients, or their representatives, in out-of-court settlements are set out in Table 1 below. The figures include damages for Medical/Professional Negligence cases which have been paid from 01 April 2010 to 31 March 2025.\n\nTable 1: Amount Paid in Out-of-Court Settlements\n\nFinancial Year\tBHSCT\tNHSCT\tWHSCT\tSHSCT\tSEHSCT\tNIAS\n£'000\t£'000\t£'000\t£'000\t£'000\t£'000\n2010/11\t7,744\t86\t560\t240\tNote 1\tNote 2\n2011/12\t2,173\t2,058\t1,187\t2,787\tNote 1\tNote 2\n2012/13\t5,120\t1,915\t902\t547\tNote 1\tNote 2\n2013/14\t9,222\t1,472\t7,238\t1,022\tNote 1\t10\n2014/15\t4,332\t1,580\t1,237\t2,322\tNote 1\t1\n2015/16\t5,553\t718\t1,962\t854\tNote 1\t0\n2016/17\t3,719\t1,828\t770\t1,154\tNote 1\t0\n2017/18\t3,867\t2,388\t2,253\t2,418\tNote 1\t11\n2018/19\t8,888\t729\t1,171\t1,047\tNote 1\t0\n2019/20\t4,632\t492\t1,638\t1,724\t55\t161\n2020/21\t3,776\t984\t1,087\t651\t1,174\t9\n2021/22\t4,377\t671\t1,634\t1,603\t3,220\t4\n2022/23\t2,640\t3,945\t3,665\t734\t692\t9\n2023/24\t4,646\t3,989\t2,282\t10,199\t1,037\t0\n2024/25\t10,568\t6,652\t1,301\t4,233\t7,045\t218\nTotal\t81,257\t29,507\t28,887\t31,535\t13,223\t422\n\nNOTES:\n\nNote 1 - Due to the implementation of a new Claims Management System in SEHSCT, information can only be provided from 01 April 2019.\n\nNote 2 – NIAS have noted that data for 2010/11, 2011/12 and 2012/13 is not available","answerHtml":"The amount paid to patients, or their representatives, in out-of-court settlements are set out in Table 1 below. The figures include damages for Medical/Professional Negligence cases which have been paid from 01 April 2010 to 31 March 2025.
Table 1: Amount Paid in Out-of-Court Settlements
| Financial Year | BHSCT | NHSCT | WHSCT | SHSCT | SEHSCT | NIAS |
| £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | |
| 2010/11 | 7,744 | 86 | 560 | 240 | Note 1 | Note 2 |
| 2011/12 | 2,173 | 2,058 | 1,187 | 2,787 | Note 1 | Note 2 |
| 2012/13 | 5,120 | 1,915 | 902 | 547 | Note 1 | Note 2 |
| 2013/14 | 9,222 | 1,472 | 7,238 | 1,022 | Note 1 | 10 |
| 2014/15 | 4,332 | 1,580 | 1,237 | 2,322 | Note 1 | 1 |
| 2015/16 | 5,553 | 718 | 1,962 | 854 | Note 1 | 0 |
| 2016/17 | 3,719 | 1,828 | 770 | 1,154 | Note 1 | 0 |
| 2017/18 | 3,867 | 2,388 | 2,253 | 2,418 | Note 1 | 11 |
| 2018/19 | 8,888 | 729 | 1,171 | 1,047 | Note 1 | 0 |
| 2019/20 | 4,632 | 492 | 1,638 | 1,724 | 55 | 161 |
| 2020/21 | 3,776 | 984 | 1,087 | 651 | 1,174 | 9 |
| 2021/22 | 4,377 | 671 | 1,634 | 1,603 | 3,220 | 4 |
| 2022/23 | 2,640 | 3,945 | 3,665 | 734 | 692 | 9 |
| 2023/24 | 4,646 | 3,989 | 2,282 | 10,199 | 1,037 | 0 |
| 2024/25 | 10,568 | 6,652 | 1,301 | 4,233 | 7,045 | 218 |
| Total | 81,257 | 29,507 | 28,887 | 31,535 | 13,223 | 422 |
NOTES:
Note 1 - Due to the implementation of a new Claims Management System in SEHSCT, information can only be provided from 01 April 2019.
Note 2 – NIAS have noted that data for 2010/11, 2011/12 and 2012/13 is not available
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030473%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448320","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448320"}},{"id":"448319","reference":"AQW 30472/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-05","answerBy":"2025-09-22","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline what actions are being taken to ensure that waiting lists for children awaiting assessments for (i) autism; and (ii) ADHD are being reduced in each Health and Social Care Social Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030472%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448319","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448319"}},{"id":"448145","reference":"AQW 30351/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-04","answerBy":"2025-09-19","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 (i) why the response to AQW 27036/22-27 has been provided in a different way than an almost identical question asked in 2024 AQW 27036/22-27; and (ii) to ask that the information is updated and presented in the same format as the 2024 answer.","answerText":"AQW 27036/22-27 asked only for individuals whereas AQW 19059/22-27 asked for people and households; and AQW 27036/22-27 asked for a breakdown by household type which was not sought in AQW 19059/22-27.\n\nSince this was the case, the answers given and the format used to present the information was necessarily different and was presented by the Housing Executive in the most appropriate format based on the information you had requested.","answerHtml":"AQW 27036/22-27 asked only for individuals whereas AQW 19059/22-27 asked for people and households; and AQW 27036/22-27 asked for a breakdown by household type which was not sought in AQW 19059/22-27.
Since this was the case, the answers given and the format used to present the information was necessarily different and was presented by the Housing Executive in the most appropriate format based on the information you had requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030351%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448145","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448145"}},{"id":"448144","reference":"AQW 30350/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-04","answerBy":"2025-09-19","answered":"2026-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 27036/22-27, as the deposited paper for this answer does not include the second set of tables referred to could he ensure the requested details are deposited in the Library.","answerText":"I can confirm that an updated response to AQW 27036/22-27, which now includes the second set of tables referred to, is being laid in the Assembly Library to replace that provided on 29th August 2025.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that an updated response to AQW 27036/22-27, which now includes the second set of tables referred to, is being laid in the Assembly Library to replace that provided on 29th August 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030350%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448144","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448144"}},{"id":"447985","reference":"AQW 30241/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-03","answerBy":"2025-09-18","answered":"2025-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of politicians from the United States of America who have received funding form his Department for genealogy and lineage research in the past 10 years; and (a) the name of each USA politician whose genealogy was researched, (b) the amount spent for each piece of research, (c) when it was published; and (d) where it can be accessed by the public.","answerText":"Zero.","answerHtml":"Zero.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030241%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447985","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447985"}},{"id":"447984","reference":"AQW 30240/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-03","answerBy":"2025-09-18","answered":"2025-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) which business area within the Department for Communities paid for the research into the Vice President of the United States of America's genealogy and lineage; (ii) any subsequent publishing costs; and (iii) the total amount spent on this exercise including any Civil Service staff time.","answerText":"The Public Record Office of Northern Ireland paid for the research into the Vice President of the United States of America’s genealogy lineage, the total amount spent for research and publication: The Family Footsteps of J.D. Vance was £2,251. The total amount spent on the exercise was £5,589 including Civil Service staff time.\n\nThis project was part of the Department’s work around US250 which highlights the people who travelled from Ulster to the USA and made a huge contribution in shaping the country we know today. The story of JD Vance highlights the influence and spirit of the Scots Irish and whilst record keeping in the 1700s isn’t of the quality that it is today, it has not deterred people like the Vice President from declaring their Scots Irish roots.”","answerHtml":"The Public Record Office of Northern Ireland paid for the research into the Vice President of the United States of America’s genealogy lineage, the total amount spent for research and publication: The Family Footsteps of J.D. Vance was £2,251. The total amount spent on the exercise was £5,589 including Civil Service staff time.
This project was part of the Department’s work around US250 which highlights the people who travelled from Ulster to the USA and made a huge contribution in shaping the country we know today. The story of JD Vance highlights the influence and spirit of the Scots Irish and whilst record keeping in the 1700s isn’t of the quality that it is today, it has not deterred people like the Vice President from declaring their Scots Irish roots.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030240%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447984","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447984"}},{"id":"447983","reference":"AQW 30239/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-03","answerBy":"2025-09-18","answered":"2025-09-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) when he met the residents whose homes were targeted during racially-motivated disorder in Ballymena in June 2025; and (ii) the names and position of all elected representatives, officials and Civil Servants present at such meetings.","answerText":"Whilst no meetings took place with the residents whose homes were targeted in Ballymena, I did make an offer via the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to assist in whatever way possible and offered to meet with those affected.\n\nI condemned these racially motivated attacks and will continue to do so.","answerHtml":"Whilst no meetings took place with the residents whose homes were targeted in Ballymena, I did make an offer via the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to assist in whatever way possible and offered to meet with those affected.
I condemned these racially motivated attacks and will continue to do so.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030239%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447983","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447983"}},{"id":"447982","reference":"AQW 30238/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-03","answerBy":"2025-09-18","answered":"2025-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for a breakdown of the amount collected in parking penalty charges by her Department, in each year since 2015, broken down by local council area.","answerText":"The amount of revenue generated since 2016/17 from Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) is shown in the table below. This figure is taken from the Department's finance system which cannot categorise PCN revenue by geographical location.\n\nThe Department’s finance system does not hold data prior to the inception of DfI as a Department, therefore figures are only available from 2016/17 onwards.\n\nYear\t£m\n16-17\t6.5\n17-18\t6.9\n18-19\t6.8\n19-20\t6.4\n20-21\t3.2\n21-22\t5.4\n22-23\t6.8\n23-24\t7.4\n24-25\t8.4","answerHtml":"The amount of revenue generated since 2016/17 from Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) is shown in the table below. This figure is taken from the Department's finance system which cannot categorise PCN revenue by geographical location.
The Department’s finance system does not hold data prior to the inception of DfI as a Department, therefore figures are only available from 2016/17 onwards.
| Year | £m |
| 16-17 | 6.5 |
| 17-18 | 6.9 |
| 18-19 | 6.8 |
| 19-20 | 6.4 |
| 20-21 | 3.2 |
| 21-22 | 5.4 |
| 22-23 | 6.8 |
| 23-24 | 7.4 |
| 24-25 | 8.4 |
From 1st April 2024 local councils have taken responsibility for the enforcement of their own off-street car parks.
The Department do not maintain records of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) issued by local councils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030237%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447981","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447981"}},{"id":"445809","reference":"AQW 29872/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-07-03","answerBy":"2025-07-22","answered":"2025-08-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail whether his Disability Strategy and Disability Work Strategies will be put out for public consultation.","answerText":"I can confirm that both the Executive’s Disability Strategy and my Department’s Disability and Work Strategy will be issued for public consultation. The timing of these consultations will be subject to Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that both the Executive’s Disability Strategy and my Department’s Disability and Work Strategy will be issued for public consultation. The timing of these consultations 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%2029872%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445809","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445809"}},{"id":"445808","reference":"AQW 29871/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-07-03","answerBy":"2025-07-22","answered":"2025-09-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the meetings his Department have had with the Departments of Infrastructure and Finance, regarding review and update of building standards, since the introduction of The Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerText":"As my Department leads on the residential buildings sector for Northern Ireland’s Climate Action Plan my officials have discussed building standards on a number of occasions via the Residential Decarbonisation Coordination Group, which is co-chaired by officials within my Department and includes representatives from the Department of Finance. There have also been numerous regular cross departmental meetings since the introduction of the Climate Change Act (2022) Northern Ireland, during which the subject of building standards was discussed.\n\nAs these meetings are too numerous to list, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"As my Department leads on the residential buildings sector for Northern Ireland’s Climate Action Plan my officials have discussed building standards on a number of occasions via the Residential Decarbonisation Coordination Group, which is co-chaired by officials within my Department and includes representatives from the Department of Finance. There have also been numerous regular cross departmental meetings since the introduction of the Climate Change Act (2022) Northern Ireland, during which the subject of building standards was discussed.
As these meetings are too numerous to list, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029871%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445808","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445808"}},{"id":"445807","reference":"AQW 29870/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-07-03","answerBy":"2025-07-22","answered":"2025-08-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any actions being taken to secure additional money for (i) Supporting People; and (ii) homelessness prevention, given the growing number of people awarded Full Duty homeless status.","answerText":"As outlined in my Department’s Budget 2025/26 EQIA I have\n\nallocated an additional £3.7m above the 2024/25 Budget position to help bring forward new and extended services which align to the 3 year Supporting People Strategy and aim to prevent homelessness.\n\nOf this, £2.7m has been allocated for strategic homelessness prevention and £1m has been provided to Supporting People for new services and the extension of current services.\n\nI also bid for an additional £2.2m funding in the June Monitoring Round to cover the increase in Employee National Insurance Contributions incurred by Supporting People scheme providers in 2025/26, however, this bid was not met.\n\nI awarded £2.8m of capital and £0.2m resource to the New Foundations Project, to enable young people leaving care and who are at risk of homelessness to be identified earlier, with the aim to provide a safe and secure accommodation solution.\n\n£4m of Financial Transaction Capital has also been allocated for the Loan to Acquire Move-on Accommodation (LAMA), to enable homelessness charities to purchase safe, secure, private rental properties to facilitate faster movement thought the homelessness system.","answerHtml":"As outlined in my Department’s Budget 2025/26 EQIA I have
allocated an additional £3.7m above the 2024/25 Budget position to help bring forward new and extended services which align to the 3 year Supporting People Strategy and aim to prevent homelessness.
Of this, £2.7m has been allocated for strategic homelessness prevention and £1m has been provided to Supporting People for new services and the extension of current services.
I also bid for an additional £2.2m funding in the June Monitoring Round to cover the increase in Employee National Insurance Contributions incurred by Supporting People scheme providers in 2025/26, however, this bid was not met.
I awarded £2.8m of capital and £0.2m resource to the New Foundations Project, to enable young people leaving care and who are at risk of homelessness to be identified earlier, with the aim to provide a safe and secure accommodation solution.
£4m of Financial Transaction Capital has also been allocated for the Loan to Acquire Move-on Accommodation (LAMA), to enable homelessness charities to purchase safe, secure, private rental properties to facilitate faster movement thought the homelessness system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029870%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445807","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445807"}},{"id":"445806","reference":"AQW 29869/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-07-03","answerBy":"2025-07-22","answered":"2025-08-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail a breakdown of the monies allocated in this financial year for (i) Ulster Scots culture and language; and (ii) Irish language.","answerText":"This table represents funding supplied by DfC and National Museums NI which is a DfC ALB. The Irish Government provides additional funding to support both the Irish Language and the Ulster Scots Language, Culture and Heritage.\n\nDfC Programme Funding\t£\tLanguage\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2,000,000\tUlster-Scots\nUlster-Scots Development Programmes\t103,000\tUlster-Scots\nForas na Gaeilge\t3,600,000\tIrish\nIrish Language Development Programmes\t103,000\tIrish\nLíofa\t50,000\tIrish\nGaeltacht Quarter Economic Development Programme\t136,000\tIrish\nALB Funding from National Museums NI\n6,500\tUlster-Scots\n10,550\tIrish\nTotal\t6,009,050","answerHtml":"This table represents funding supplied by DfC and National Museums NI which is a DfC ALB. The Irish Government provides additional funding to support both the Irish Language and the Ulster Scots Language, Culture and Heritage.
| DfC Programme Funding | £ | Language |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2,000,000 | Ulster-Scots |
| Ulster-Scots Development Programmes | 103,000 | Ulster-Scots |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 3,600,000 | Irish |
| Irish Language Development Programmes | 103,000 | Irish |
| Líofa | 50,000 | Irish |
| Gaeltacht Quarter Economic Development Programme | 136,000 | Irish |
| ALB Funding from National Museums NI | ||
| 6,500 | Ulster-Scots | |
| 10,550 | Irish | |
| Total | 6,009,050 |
There is no firm cut-off date associated with funding confirmation, however, as you will know, it gets much more challenging to deliver programme outputs at short notice later in the year.
Ideally, the Social Housing Development program should be fully funded from the outset at the beginning of each financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029868%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445805","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445805"}},{"id":"445654","reference":"AQW 29768/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-07-02","answerBy":"2025-07-21","answered":"2025-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, should the A5 allocation become available for redistribution, to detail the mechanisms which can be deployed to ensure the money is used in an effective and efficient way.","answerText":"The reallocation of any reduced requirements from the A5 scheme, should these arise, will be a matter for the Executive to consider and agree upon as part of both the in-year monitoring process and the wider Budget 2026–29 process, to ensure that any budget resources that do become available, are directed towards the Executive’s highest priority areas.","answerHtml":"The reallocation of any reduced requirements from the A5 scheme, should these arise, will be a matter for the Executive to consider and agree upon as part of both the in-year monitoring process and the wider Budget 2026–29 process, to ensure that any budget resources that do become available, are directed towards the Executive’s highest priority areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029768%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445654"}},{"id":"445653","reference":"AQW 29767/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-07-02","answerBy":"2025-07-21","answered":"2025-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the last date by which the allocation for the A5 project can be reasonably spent within the 2025/26 financial year.","answerText":"Department for Infrastructure (DfI) will need time and space to work through the recent ruling in relation to the A5 in order to fully understand its implications, including in relation to the use of resources allocated for the scheme for 2025-26.\n\nAny funding allocated in 2025-26 which is not required should be returned to the centre for reallocation at the earliest opportunity. The reallocation of any Executive-earmarked reduced requirements will be a matter for the Executive to consider and agree upon as part of the in-year monitoring process.","answerHtml":"Department for Infrastructure (DfI) will need time and space to work through the recent ruling in relation to the A5 in order to fully understand its implications, including in relation to the use of resources allocated for the scheme for 2025-26.
Any funding allocated in 2025-26 which is not required should be returned to the centre for reallocation at the earliest opportunity. The reallocation of any Executive-earmarked reduced requirements will be a matter for the Executive to consider and agree upon as part of the in-year monitoring process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029767%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445653"}},{"id":"445652","reference":"AQW 29766/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-07-02","answerBy":"2025-07-21","answered":"2025-07-16","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 detail the number of meetings there have been between her Department and the Crown Estate regarding the release of licenses for off-shore wind opportunities, since the start of the 2016 Assembly mandate.","answerText":"At present, seabed leasing for offshore renewable energy is not possible as The Crown Estate (TCE) require a decommissioning regime for a leasing round to take place. My Department has therefore had no meetings with TCE regarding the release of areas for leasing. My Department continue to work in close collaboration with other departments and key stakeholders, such as TCE, to develop and deliver the Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan (OREAP). This plan outlines the policy frameworks required to enable Offshore Renewable Energy development in the North.","answerHtml":"At present, seabed leasing for offshore renewable energy is not possible as The Crown Estate (TCE) require a decommissioning regime for a leasing round to take place. My Department has therefore had no meetings with TCE regarding the release of areas for leasing. My Department continue to work in close collaboration with other departments and key stakeholders, such as TCE, to develop and deliver the Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan (OREAP). This plan outlines the policy frameworks required to enable Offshore Renewable Energy development in the North.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029766%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445652","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445652"}},{"id":"445651","reference":"AQW 29765/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-07-02","answerBy":"2025-07-21","answered":"2025-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline why both the Cookstown and Ballynahinch bypasses were redesigned following the introduction of the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, when the A5 Western Transport Corridor was not redesigned.","answerText":"I can confirm that neither the Cookstown nor Ballynahinch bypasses were redesigned following the introduction of the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.\n\nThe A5WTC has been continually refined, throughout its design and development, to adopt policies around reduced emissions as far as possible, including contractual commitments, for example PAS 2080:2023 Carbon Management in Buildings and Infrastructure.\n\nRecommendations 14 -17 of the Departmental Statement detail my Departments approach to Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. Departmental Statement 2024 (v3.0) | A5 Western Transport Corridor Hub Site.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that neither the Cookstown nor Ballynahinch bypasses were redesigned following the introduction of the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.
The A5WTC has been continually refined, throughout its design and development, to adopt policies around reduced emissions as far as possible, including contractual commitments, for example PAS 2080:2023 Carbon Management in Buildings and Infrastructure.
Recommendations 14 -17 of the Departmental Statement detail my Departments approach to Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. Departmental Statement 2024 (v3.0) | A5 Western Transport Corridor Hub Site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029765%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445651","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445651"}},{"id":"445650","reference":"AQW 29764/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-07-02","answerBy":"2025-07-21","answered":"2025-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the compensation costs incurred following the decision on the A5 Western Transport Corridor scheme.","answerText":"The judge quashed the decision and the orders, taking effect from the 27 June 2025. To date there have been no compensation costs incurred.","answerHtml":"The judge quashed the decision and the orders, taking effect from the 27 June 2025. To date there have been no compensation costs incurred.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029764%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445650","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445650"}},{"id":"445285","reference":"AQW 29543/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-30","answerBy":"2025-07-17","answered":"2025-08-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to provide further clarification to an answer to a supplementary question about energy support schemes during Question Time on Monday 30 June 2025, when he referred me to the Minister for the Economy's Energy Strategy; (ii) whether his Department provide energy support through Affordable Warmth Scheme and other funds; and (iii) whether he will consider adding technological solutions that harness surplus renewable energy.","answerText":"Delivering the Fuel Poverty Strategy requires working in collaboration with other Executive Ministers, including the Minister for the Economy in relation to the Energy Strategy. As part of this work on Fuel Poverty, consideration is being given to harnessing renewable energy in a way that directly supports households most in need. I have recently written to EnergyCloud NI to meet with them to hear more about their work and the role it can play in addressing fuel poverty by using excess renewable energy in Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department currently provides energy support to low-income households through the Affordable Warmth Scheme and is developing the Warm Healthy Homes Scheme that will replace the current Affordable Warmth Scheme when it ends. The Fuel Poverty Strategy public consultation was used to consult on key aspects of the new scheme including the use of technological solutions such as low carbon heating, photovoltaic solar panels and battery storage. The consultation responses will be used to inform the scheme design.","answerHtml":"Delivering the Fuel Poverty Strategy requires working in collaboration with other Executive Ministers, including the Minister for the Economy in relation to the Energy Strategy. As part of this work on Fuel Poverty, consideration is being given to harnessing renewable energy in a way that directly supports households most in need. I have recently written to EnergyCloud NI to meet with them to hear more about their work and the role it can play in addressing fuel poverty by using excess renewable energy in Northern Ireland.
My Department currently provides energy support to low-income households through the Affordable Warmth Scheme and is developing the Warm Healthy Homes Scheme that will replace the current Affordable Warmth Scheme when it ends. The Fuel Poverty Strategy public consultation was used to consult on key aspects of the new scheme including the use of technological solutions such as low carbon heating, photovoltaic solar panels and battery storage. The consultation responses will be used to inform the scheme design.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029543%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445285","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445285"}},{"id":"445284","reference":"AQW 29542/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-30","answerBy":"2025-07-17","answered":"2025-07-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to clarify the process for allocation of Intermediate Rental properties, given that a representative from the company operating the scheme on the Department’s behalf confirmed tenants will be chosen based on being drawn out of a hat at the Committee for Communities on 19 June 2025.","answerText":"The Member is incorrect. The representative did not confirm this but simply stated that it is one example of an approach that could be taken.","answerHtml":"The Member is incorrect. The representative did not confirm this but simply stated that it is one example of an approach that could be taken.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029542%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445284","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445284"}},{"id":"445283","reference":"AQW 29541/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-30","answerBy":"2025-07-17","answered":"2025-09-01","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 the introduction of a Young Carers Covenant that agrees to deliver a fair future for all young carers and young adult carers, in line with Carers Trust ten outcomes and as adopted by the Scottish Government, Department for Work and Pensions and Department of Health and Social Care.","answerText":"My Department fully recognises the vital role of young carers and remains committed to supporting young carers wherever possible. However, many of the challenges faced by young carers extend beyond the remit of health and social care. A Covenant of the kind proposed would involve cross-departmental consideration and require the input and agreement of other Executive Ministers.\n\nWhilst my Department cannot solely commit to introducing a Young Carers Covenant, I have asked my officials to raise this matter for discussion at the next Supporting Carers Senior Officials Cross Departmental Group, with appropriate involvement of young carers.","answerHtml":"My Department fully recognises the vital role of young carers and remains committed to supporting young carers wherever possible. However, many of the challenges faced by young carers extend beyond the remit of health and social care. A Covenant of the kind proposed would involve cross-departmental consideration and require the input and agreement of other Executive Ministers.
Whilst my Department cannot solely commit to introducing a Young Carers Covenant, I have asked my officials to raise this matter for discussion at the next Supporting Carers Senior Officials Cross Departmental Group, with appropriate involvement of young carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029541%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445283","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445283"}},{"id":"445144","reference":"AQW 29465/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-27","answerBy":"2025-07-16","answered":"2025-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline (i) what actions he and his Department are taking to identify and provide support for young carers who attend school; and (ii) how is he ensuring every school sector is providing equitable access for young carers to meet his objectives.","answerText":"Departmental officials work closely on an ongoing basis with Action for Children and Barnardo’s Northern Ireland, both of which provide support for young carers throughout Northern Ireland, in order to help raise awareness and facilitate a better understanding within schools around the role of young carers, the challenges they face, and the support available.\n\nThe Department and the Education Authority’s (EA) Education Welfare Service (EWS) supported Action for Children and Barnardo’s Northern Ireland with the launch of a Young Carers in Education Digital Awareness Pack. The pack, which was circulated to all schools in 2024, included:\n\na letter from the Permanent Secretary to all education settings;\n\na digital poster designed by Young Carers;\n\nEA and Health and Social Care Board (HSC) Guidance - Supporting Young Carers in School; and\n\nYoung Carers’ Education Research by Action for Children.\n\nIn August 2025, the Department will be supporting the launch of Action for Children’s Young Carers’ video, “Teach the Teachers”, which is designed to help raise awareness of the role of young carers among teachers. It shows how to identify young carers in their classroom and what support they can offer to a Young Carer. The EA has agreed to share this video at School Principal events, with the intention that it will be shared further and throughout schools in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe EA is introducing a new specialist post to support Young Carers regionally. The postholder, who is expected to be appointed in July 2025, will aim to ensure consistency of approach and positive outcomes for Young Carers in our educational settings.","answerHtml":"Departmental officials work closely on an ongoing basis with Action for Children and Barnardo’s Northern Ireland, both of which provide support for young carers throughout Northern Ireland, in order to help raise awareness and facilitate a better understanding within schools around the role of young carers, the challenges they face, and the support available.
The Department and the Education Authority’s (EA) Education Welfare Service (EWS) supported Action for Children and Barnardo’s Northern Ireland with the launch of a Young Carers in Education Digital Awareness Pack. The pack, which was circulated to all schools in 2024, included:
a letter from the Permanent Secretary to all education settings;
a digital poster designed by Young Carers;
EA and Health and Social Care Board (HSC) Guidance - Supporting Young Carers in School; and
Young Carers’ Education Research by Action for Children.
In August 2025, the Department will be supporting the launch of Action for Children’s Young Carers’ video, “Teach the Teachers”, which is designed to help raise awareness of the role of young carers among teachers. It shows how to identify young carers in their classroom and what support they can offer to a Young Carer. The EA has agreed to share this video at School Principal events, with the intention that it will be shared further and throughout schools in Northern Ireland.
The EA is introducing a new specialist post to support Young Carers regionally. The postholder, who is expected to be appointed in July 2025, will aim to ensure consistency of approach and positive outcomes for Young Carers in our educational settings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029465%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445144","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445144"}},{"id":"445143","reference":"AQW 29464/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-27","answerBy":"2025-07-16","answered":"2025-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the role of young carers in developing and updating regulations and legislation on the provision of support for carers; and (ii) what new regulations or legislation (a) has been introduced; and (b) is planned to be introduced as a direct result of this involvement, before the end of the 2022-27 Assembly mandate.","answerText":"The Social Care Collaborative Forum has been established to take forward a number of key priorities including a review of carers legislation (inclusive of young carers) to be carried out by 2028.\n\nYoung carers interests are fully embedded in this work through the participation of Barnardos and Action for Children in the Forum’s Supporting Carers workstream, however no new carers legislation, or changes to existing carers legislation, will be brought through in the remainder of this mandate.","answerHtml":"The Social Care Collaborative Forum has been established to take forward a number of key priorities including a review of carers legislation (inclusive of young carers) to be carried out by 2028.
Young carers interests are fully embedded in this work through the participation of Barnardos and Action for Children in the Forum’s Supporting Carers workstream, however no new carers legislation, or changes to existing carers legislation, will be brought through in the remainder of this mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029464%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445143","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445143"}},{"id":"445142","reference":"AQW 29463/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-27","answerBy":"2025-07-16","answered":"2025-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline what support and interventions are available for young carers in each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Young carer assessments can be completed by the Trusts or the commissioned Regional Young Carers Service. The number of young carer assessments completed during the 20024-25 financial year as reported by each Health and Social Care Trust and the regionally commissioned young carers services as follows:\n\nBelfast\tNorthern\tSouth Eastern\tSouthern\tWestern\nNumber of Young carers assessments completed as reported by Trusts in Statutory Function Report\t83\tno data available\t29\t60\t4\nNumber of Young Carers assessments completed as reported by Action for Children or Barnardo's\t43\t8\t23\t60\t3\n\nWork is ongoing to differentiate the number of assessments conducted by the contracted regional service providers (Action for Children and Barnardo’s) and those by the Trusts. My officials are working with Northern Trust on their data.\n\nLast year the contracted regional service providers delivered direct support for 605 Young Carers\n\nBelfast – Action for Children - 109 young people\n\nNorthern – Barnardo’s – 128 young people\n\nSouth Eastern - Action for Children 81 young people\n\nSouthern - Action for Children - 216 young people\n\nWestern – Barnardo’s - 71 young people\n\nThe Department provides funding to commission and deliver a Regional Young Carers Service. this is currently provided by Action for Children and Barnardo’s who as part of their service delivery undertake assessments of Young Carers on behalf of HSC Trusts.\n\nBarnardo’s operate in the Western and Northern Trust areas, Action for Children operates in Belfast, Southern and South Eastern Trust areas.\n\nThe following services are commissioned across all five HSC Trusts –\n\nDay short breaks- this is a large group activity designed to offer young carers a short break with a focus on fun and socialising with peers.\n\n1-1 therapeutic work – this is 1-1 face time with a young carer. It may take place as part of their assessment, review or ongoing service delivery (including 1-1 therapeutic work or a 1-1 short break session)\n\nGroup work – this includes 2 or more young carers attending a group where there is a specific focus in response to identified need e.g. mental health group, sibling group.\n\nAction for Children also offer Overnight short breaks in Belfast, Southern and South Eastern Trust areas. This is a residential activity that includes an overnight away from home designed to offer a short break with fun and socialising with peers. This may also include focussed group work.","answerHtml":"Young carer assessments can be completed by the Trusts or the commissioned Regional Young Carers Service. The number of young carer assessments completed during the 20024-25 financial year as reported by each Health and Social Care Trust and the regionally commissioned young carers services as follows:
| Belfast | Northern | South Eastern | Southern | Western | |
| Number of Young carers assessments completed as reported by Trusts in Statutory Function Report | 83 | no data available | 29 | 60 | 4 |
| Number of Young Carers assessments completed as reported by Action for Children or Barnardo's | 43 | 8 | 23 | 60 | 3 |
Work is ongoing to differentiate the number of assessments conducted by the contracted regional service providers (Action for Children and Barnardo’s) and those by the Trusts. My officials are working with Northern Trust on their data.
Last year the contracted regional service providers delivered direct support for 605 Young Carers
Belfast – Action for Children - 109 young people
Northern – Barnardo’s – 128 young people
South Eastern - Action for Children 81 young people
Southern - Action for Children - 216 young people
Western – Barnardo’s - 71 young people
The Department provides funding to commission and deliver a Regional Young Carers Service. this is currently provided by Action for Children and Barnardo’s who as part of their service delivery undertake assessments of Young Carers on behalf of HSC Trusts.
Barnardo’s operate in the Western and Northern Trust areas, Action for Children operates in Belfast, Southern and South Eastern Trust areas.
The following services are commissioned across all five HSC Trusts –
Day short breaks- this is a large group activity designed to offer young carers a short break with a focus on fun and socialising with peers.
1-1 therapeutic work – this is 1-1 face time with a young carer. It may take place as part of their assessment, review or ongoing service delivery (including 1-1 therapeutic work or a 1-1 short break session)
Group work – this includes 2 or more young carers attending a group where there is a specific focus in response to identified need e.g. mental health group, sibling group.
Action for Children also offer Overnight short breaks in Belfast, Southern and South Eastern Trust areas. This is a residential activity that includes an overnight away from home designed to offer a short break with fun and socialising with peers. This may also include focussed group work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029463%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445142","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445142"}},{"id":"445141","reference":"AQW 29462/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-27","answerBy":"2025-07-16","answered":"2025-07-08","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 child carers that have been assessed for support in the 2024-25 financial year, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Young carer assessments can be completed by the Trusts or the commissioned Regional Young Carers Service. The number of young carer assessments completed during the 20024-25 financial year as reported by each Health and Social Care Trust and the regionally commissioned young carers services as follows:\n\nBelfast\tNorthern\tSouth Eastern\tSouthern\tWestern\nNumber of Young carers assessments completed as reported by Trusts in Statutory Function Report\t83\tno data available\t29\t60\t4\nNumber of Young Carers assessments completed as reported by Action for Children or Barnardo's\t43\t8\t23\t60\t3\n\nWork is ongoing to differentiate the number of assessments conducted by the contracted regional service providers (Action for Children and Barnardo’s) and those by the Trusts. My officials are working with Northern Trust on their data.\n\nLast year the contracted regional service providers delivered direct support for 605 Young Carers\n\nBelfast – Action for Children - 109 young people\n\nNorthern – Barnardo’s – 128 young people\n\nSouth Eastern - Action for Children 81 young people\n\nSouthern - Action for Children - 216 young people\n\nWestern – Barnardo’s - 71 young people\n\nThe Department provides funding to commission and deliver a Regional Young Carers Service. this is currently provided by Action for Children and Barnardo’s who as part of their service delivery undertake assessments of Young Carers on behalf of HSC Trusts.\n\nBarnardo’s operate in the Western and Northern Trust areas, Action for Children operates in Belfast, Southern and South Eastern Trust areas.\n\nThe following services are commissioned across all five HSC Trusts –\n\nDay short breaks- this is a large group activity designed to offer young carers a short break with a focus on fun and socialising with peers.\n\n1-1 therapeutic work – this is 1-1 face time with a young carer. It may take place as part of their assessment, review or ongoing service delivery (including 1-1 therapeutic work or a 1-1 short break session)\n\nGroup work – this includes 2 or more young carers attending a group where there is a specific focus in response to identified need e.g. mental health group, sibling group.\n\nAction for Children also offer Overnight short breaks in Belfast, Southern and South Eastern Trust areas. This is a residential activity that includes an overnight away from home designed to offer a short break with fun and socialising with peers. This may also include focussed group work.","answerHtml":"Young carer assessments can be completed by the Trusts or the commissioned Regional Young Carers Service. The number of young carer assessments completed during the 20024-25 financial year as reported by each Health and Social Care Trust and the regionally commissioned young carers services as follows:
| Belfast | Northern | South Eastern | Southern | Western | |
| Number of Young carers assessments completed as reported by Trusts in Statutory Function Report | 83 | no data available | 29 | 60 | 4 |
| Number of Young Carers assessments completed as reported by Action for Children or Barnardo's | 43 | 8 | 23 | 60 | 3 |
Work is ongoing to differentiate the number of assessments conducted by the contracted regional service providers (Action for Children and Barnardo’s) and those by the Trusts. My officials are working with Northern Trust on their data.
Last year the contracted regional service providers delivered direct support for 605 Young Carers
Belfast – Action for Children - 109 young people
Northern – Barnardo’s – 128 young people
South Eastern - Action for Children 81 young people
Southern - Action for Children - 216 young people
Western – Barnardo’s - 71 young people
The Department provides funding to commission and deliver a Regional Young Carers Service. this is currently provided by Action for Children and Barnardo’s who as part of their service delivery undertake assessments of Young Carers on behalf of HSC Trusts.
Barnardo’s operate in the Western and Northern Trust areas, Action for Children operates in Belfast, Southern and South Eastern Trust areas.
The following services are commissioned across all five HSC Trusts –
Day short breaks- this is a large group activity designed to offer young carers a short break with a focus on fun and socialising with peers.
1-1 therapeutic work – this is 1-1 face time with a young carer. It may take place as part of their assessment, review or ongoing service delivery (including 1-1 therapeutic work or a 1-1 short break session)
Group work – this includes 2 or more young carers attending a group where there is a specific focus in response to identified need e.g. mental health group, sibling group.
Action for Children also offer Overnight short breaks in Belfast, Southern and South Eastern Trust areas. This is a residential activity that includes an overnight away from home designed to offer a short break with fun and socialising with peers. This may also include focussed group work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029462%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445141","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445141"}},{"id":"445140","reference":"AQW 29461/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-27","answerBy":"2025-07-16","answered":"2025-07-23","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 the review of regulations of short-term rental properties in Northern Ireland, following the reported request made by the Minister for Communities at a Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council meeting in February 2025.","answerText":"My Department’s and Tourism NI’s powers to regulate the short-term let visitor accommodation sector are set out in the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (“the 1992 Tourism Order”). The 1992 Tourism Order requires all visitor accommodation in the North to be certified by Tourism NI before they can operate, as well as once every four years, to ensure that specified minimum quality standards are met.\n\nMy Department and Tourism NI are reviewing the visitor accommodation\n\ncertification scheme and its associated statutory criteria regulations which outlines these required minimum quality standards.\n\nThe 1992 Tourism Order does not provide any power for my Department or Tourism NI to limit, cap or control the number or spread of properties providing accommodation for visitors. Our role is focused on minimum quality standards.\n\nThat being said, following the publication of the Executive’s Housing Supply Strategy, DfC officials have contacted relevant Departments to discuss a collective approach on related issues. My officials are engaging in this process.\n\nDfC will take forward research on the issue of short-term/holiday lets, their potential impacts, and their interaction with the planning process. This work will be done in conjunction with the Department for Instructure and my Department.\n\nI agree with the Communities Minister that it is important that we have a proper evidence base to understand what impact holiday lets have on local housing supply, if any, before we make any policy decisions on this matter.","answerHtml":"My Department’s and Tourism NI’s powers to regulate the short-term let visitor accommodation sector are set out in the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (“the 1992 Tourism Order”). The 1992 Tourism Order requires all visitor accommodation in the North to be certified by Tourism NI before they can operate, as well as once every four years, to ensure that specified minimum quality standards are met.
My Department and Tourism NI are reviewing the visitor accommodation
certification scheme and its associated statutory criteria regulations which outlines these required minimum quality standards.
The 1992 Tourism Order does not provide any power for my Department or Tourism NI to limit, cap or control the number or spread of properties providing accommodation for visitors. Our role is focused on minimum quality standards.
That being said, following the publication of the Executive’s Housing Supply Strategy, DfC officials have contacted relevant Departments to discuss a collective approach on related issues. My officials are engaging in this process.
DfC will take forward research on the issue of short-term/holiday lets, their potential impacts, and their interaction with the planning process. This work will be done in conjunction with the Department for Instructure and my Department.
I agree with the Communities Minister that it is important that we have a proper evidence base to understand what impact holiday lets have on local housing supply, if any, before we make any policy decisions on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029461%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445140","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445140"}},{"id":"444961","reference":"AQW 29371/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-26","answerBy":"2025-07-11","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how his Department is monitoring (i) the Education Authority; and (ii) Controlled Schools Council, to ensure both are complying with the Integrated Education Act 2022 and supporting the intentionality of integrated education and integrated ethos.","answerText":"Only the Education Authority (EA) has a duty to encourage, facilitate and support Integrated Education. Neither organisation has a specific duty to support the intentionality of the Integrated ethos.\n\nThe EA and the Controlled Schools Support Council (CSSC) both have a strong history of working in partnership with those in Integrated Education to support and develop the sector. For example, in 2025 the EA and NICIE launched ‘The Framework for Integrated Education’, a self-evaluation toolkit specifically designed for Integrated schools to help them evaluate the nature, extent, and quality of their Integrated ethos and set targets for its development.\n\nThe Department monitors compliance with these actions through routine engagement with each body, approval and monitoring of organisational business plans by DE policy leads and through the regular arm’s length body accountability arrangements. The Department sought and used input from both organisations during development of the Section 10 report on Integrated Education published on 26 April 2024.","answerHtml":"Only the Education Authority (EA) has a duty to encourage, facilitate and support Integrated Education. Neither organisation has a specific duty to support the intentionality of the Integrated ethos.
The EA and the Controlled Schools Support Council (CSSC) both have a strong history of working in partnership with those in Integrated Education to support and develop the sector. For example, in 2025 the EA and NICIE launched ‘The Framework for Integrated Education’, a self-evaluation toolkit specifically designed for Integrated schools to help them evaluate the nature, extent, and quality of their Integrated ethos and set targets for its development.
The Department monitors compliance with these actions through routine engagement with each body, approval and monitoring of organisational business plans by DE policy leads and through the regular arm’s length body accountability arrangements. The Department sought and used input from both organisations during development of the Section 10 report on Integrated Education published on 26 April 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029371%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444961","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444961"}},{"id":"444960","reference":"AQW 29370/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-26","answerBy":"2025-07-11","answered":"2025-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of children with a statement of Special Educational Needs that will be enrolling in Primary 7 at the start of the new academic year 2025-26, broken down by council area.","answerText":"The Department does not yet have access to information regarding the Special Education Needs of pupils who will be enrolling in Primary Year 7 in September 2025. This data will be collated as part of the 2025 school census data collection on 10 October 2025.\n\nSchool Census information in the table below shows the number of pupils enrolled in Year 6 in primary schools as of census day 2024 broken down by Local Government District (school location). While pupils will continue to undergo the statementing process throughout the year, the available information may be used as an indicative estimate of the upcoming Year 7 cohort. This information relates to census day, 11 October 2024.\n\nLocal Government District\tNumber of pupils in P6 with a statement of SEN (Census Day October 2024)\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t115\nArds and North Down\t131\nArmagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon\t153\nBelfast\t379\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t114\nDerry City and Strabane\t159\nFermanagh and Omagh\t118\nLisburn and Castlereagh\t123\nMid and East Antrim\t92\nMid Ulster\t148\nNewry, Mourne and Down\t204\nTotal\t1,736\n\nSource: NI school census\n\nNotes:\n\n1. Data is based on pupils enrolled on Census Day i.e. The Friday of the first full week in October (In 2024/25 this was the 11 October 2024)\n\n2. Figures are based on school location (LGD 2014)\n\n3. Figures include pupils enrolled in primary schools only.","answerHtml":"The Department does not yet have access to information regarding the Special Education Needs of pupils who will be enrolling in Primary Year 7 in September 2025. This data will be collated as part of the 2025 school census data collection on 10 October 2025.
School Census information in the table below shows the number of pupils enrolled in Year 6 in primary schools as of census day 2024 broken down by Local Government District (school location). While pupils will continue to undergo the statementing process throughout the year, the available information may be used as an indicative estimate of the upcoming Year 7 cohort. This information relates to census day, 11 October 2024.
| Local Government District | Number of pupils in P6 with a statement of SEN (Census Day October 2024) |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 115 |
| Ards and North Down | 131 |
| Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon | 153 |
| Belfast | 379 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 114 |
| Derry City and Strabane | 159 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 118 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | 123 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 92 |
| Mid Ulster | 148 |
| Newry, Mourne and Down | 204 |
| Total | 1,736 |
Source: NI school census
Notes:
1. Data is based on pupils enrolled on Census Day i.e. The Friday of the first full week in October (In 2024/25 this was the 11 October 2024)
2. Figures are based on school location (LGD 2014)
3. Figures include pupils enrolled in primary schools only.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029370%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444960","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444960"}},{"id":"444959","reference":"AQW 29369/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-26","answerBy":"2025-07-11","answered":"2025-07-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the (i) programmes; or (ii) actions, her Department is currently delivering or planning with employers, to encourage and promote employment of people with disabilities.","answerText":"My department offers a range of practical, financial and other support to those with disabilities across the further and higher education sectors, as well as to those participating on vocational training programmes, to enable them to build the skills and qualifications needed to compete for employment opportunities at all levels. We have also been working closely with the Department for Communities (DfC) on the development of a Disability and Work Strategy which will aim to improve employment outcomes for disabled people and people with health conditions. In terms of specific programmes and actions my department is currently or planning to deliver, with employers, Breaking Barriers in education supports learners to gain qualifications and work experience to enable progression into the labour market. Working with local community-based organisations the programme provides additional support, both in skill development and overcoming barriers for those with a disability or who are neurodiverse. These career progressive programmes include supported work placements and guided learning in skills required to sustain longer term employment. We have a strong apprenticeship offering but whilst there are over 13,000 apprentices in the north, people with disabilities are currently underrepresented. I want to minimise and, where possible, remove barriers to take-up of apprenticeships by those individuals. My Department's Apprenticeship Inclusion Challenge Fund will support two dedicated disability projects with allocations of up to £100,000 per project over the next 18 months to address these inclusion gaps. Assured Skills Academies provide pre-employment training courses for individuals aged 18 and over who meet the eligibility criteria and therefore are open to people with disabilities. The training is industry-recognised and on completion of the academy a job interview is guaranteed for existing vacancies with the participating companies. My Department also delivers Skills for Life and Work, a vocational education and training programme focused primarily on Entry Level and Level 1, for young people aged 16–17 (extended age eligibility for young people with a disability and young people who are care experienced - up to 22 and up to 24 respectively) who have left school with low or no qualifications. Typically, more than half of participants present with a registered disability. To support those participants who have a disability, there is an extra training premium, additional time on programme, and the Department also currently contracts separately for Disability Support Services.","answerHtml":"My department offers a range of practical, financial and other support to those with disabilities across the further and higher education sectors, as well as to those participating on vocational training programmes, to enable them to build the skills and qualifications needed to compete for employment opportunities at all levels. We have also been working closely with the Department for Communities (DfC) on the development of a Disability and Work Strategy which will aim to improve employment outcomes for disabled people and people with health conditions. In terms of specific programmes and actions my department is currently or planning to deliver, with employers, Breaking Barriers in education supports learners to gain qualifications and work experience to enable progression into the labour market. Working with local community-based organisations the programme provides additional support, both in skill development and overcoming barriers for those with a disability or who are neurodiverse. These career progressive programmes include supported work placements and guided learning in skills required to sustain longer term employment. We have a strong apprenticeship offering but whilst there are over 13,000 apprentices in the north, people with disabilities are currently underrepresented. I want to minimise and, where possible, remove barriers to take-up of apprenticeships by those individuals. My Department's Apprenticeship Inclusion Challenge Fund will support two dedicated disability projects with allocations of up to £100,000 per project over the next 18 months to address these inclusion gaps. Assured Skills Academies provide pre-employment training courses for individuals aged 18 and over who meet the eligibility criteria and therefore are open to people with disabilities. The training is industry-recognised and on completion of the academy a job interview is guaranteed for existing vacancies with the participating companies. My Department also delivers Skills for Life and Work, a vocational education and training programme focused primarily on Entry Level and Level 1, for young people aged 16–17 (extended age eligibility for young people with a disability and young people who are care experienced - up to 22 and up to 24 respectively) who have left school with low or no qualifications. Typically, more than half of participants present with a registered disability. To support those participants who have a disability, there is an extra training premium, additional time on programme, and the Department also currently contracts separately for Disability Support Services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029369%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444959","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444959"}},{"id":"444958","reference":"AQW 29368/22-27","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 for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for a breakdown of the number of Airbnb properties registered, broken down by local council area, in each of the last 10 years.","answerText":"Tourism NI holds information on the number of certified properties by accommodation category and by Council area. The eight accommodation categories set out in the legislation are Hotels, Guest Houses, Bed & Breakfast Establishments, Self-Catering Establishments, Hostels, Bunk House, Campus Accommodation and Guest Accommodation. Tourism NI, however, does not hold any information on the number of accommodation providers who promote their properties on particular marketing platforms such as Airbnb.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI holds information on the number of certified properties by accommodation category and by Council area. The eight accommodation categories set out in the legislation are Hotels, Guest Houses, Bed & Breakfast Establishments, Self-Catering Establishments, Hostels, Bunk House, Campus Accommodation and Guest Accommodation. Tourism NI, however, does not hold any information on the number of accommodation providers who promote their properties on particular marketing platforms such as Airbnb.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029368%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444958","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444958"}},{"id":"444957","reference":"AQW 29367/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-26","answerBy":"2025-07-11","answered":"2025-07-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what actions she is taking to develop a structured approach to employer engagement to enhance and support the number of people with disabilities into employment, as called for in Mind the Gap, Supporting people with disabilities into employment, Summary Report - June 2025.","answerText":"My department offers a range of programmes, many of which are in conjunction with employers. We have also been working closely with the Department for Communities (DfC) on the development of a Disability and Work Strategy which will aim to improve employment outcomes for disabled people and people with health conditions and the SEDI sub-committee of the Skills Council includes membership from both the business community and disability advocates.","answerHtml":"My department offers a range of programmes, many of which are in conjunction with employers. We have also been working closely with the Department for Communities (DfC) on the development of a Disability and Work Strategy which will aim to improve employment outcomes for disabled people and people with health conditions and the SEDI sub-committee of the Skills Council includes membership from both the business community and disability advocates.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029367%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444957","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444957"}},{"id":"444756","reference":"AQW 29276/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-25","answerBy":"2025-07-10","answered":"2025-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how the Supported Employment model based on the Supported Employment Quality Framework is being integrated into future strategies and action plans, in order to address the gap in the number of people with disabilities in the workplace compared to people without disabilities.","answerText":"A draft Disability and Work Strategy for Northern Ireland is currently with the Executive for consideration.\n\nThe draft Strategy proposes actions the support personal journeys towards, into and progressing in employment; and recognises the importance of the Supported Employment Model amongst a wider portfolio of employability support for disabled people.","answerHtml":"A draft Disability and Work Strategy for Northern Ireland is currently with the Executive for consideration.
The draft Strategy proposes actions the support personal journeys towards, into and progressing in employment; and recognises the importance of the Supported Employment Model amongst a wider portfolio of employability support for disabled people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029276%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444756","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444756"}},{"id":"444755","reference":"AQW 29275/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-25","answerBy":"2025-07-10","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 provide a copy of the evaluation of the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities that ended in March 2021.","answerText":"The Department did not publish an evaluation of the previous Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities: ‘Supporting Equality Through Inclusive Employment’.\n\nIn co-developing a new Disability and Work Strategy for Northern Ireland, the Department undertook a dedicated workshop with members of the Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum in June 2021, to review and identify lessons learned from the previous Strategy and its implementation. The outputs of this workshop shaped the forward approach to co-production of a new Strategy for Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Department did not publish an evaluation of the previous Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities: ‘Supporting Equality Through Inclusive Employment’.
In co-developing a new Disability and Work Strategy for Northern Ireland, the Department undertook a dedicated workshop with members of the Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum in June 2021, to review and identify lessons learned from the previous Strategy and its implementation. The outputs of this workshop shaped the forward approach to co-production of a new Strategy for Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029275%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444755","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444755"}},{"id":"444754","reference":"AQW 29274/22-27","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 for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the careers (i) guidance; and (ii) support, provided by her Department in special schools to encourage employment options for young people with disabilities.","answerText":"My Department’s Careers Service offers impartial and personalised guidance and support on an all-age, all-ability basis, provided by professionally qualified Careers Advisers. This support empowers clients to make their own learning and career decisions, based on up to date labour market information, knowledge of career pathway options and an understanding of their own strengths, talents, skills and interests.Through established partnership working with post-primary schools, including special schools, careers services are prioritised for pupils with barriers and those who are considered vulnerable and most in need. This includes those with a disability, a medical condition and a statement of Special Educational Need. For young people with a statement of Special Educational Need, Careers Advisers attend Transition Plan Meetings and their subsequent Annual Reviews at the invitation of the school. This support allows young people, and their parents and guardians, to make informed decisions about the options available to them on the range of educational, training and employment opportunities. Careers Advisers continue to work with pupils beyond school, assisting with next steps and planning of their career pathway to ensure they are fully supported in the transition from school to adult provision and employment. The provision of appropriate, timely and specialised careers guidance is key to enabling individuals of all ages and abilities to make informed career decisions. The recently published Careers Action Plan recognises this and sets out a programme of collaborative work which will improve the careers ecosystem for the benefit of all individuals. Building on dedicated initiatives already under way, specific action will be taken to strengthen the support for children and young people with special educational needs and to improve pathways to appropriate learning and employment opportunities. My Department’s Careers Service has a key role in this work. You may also be aware of the proposals for reform that I outlined to Assembly colleagues on 16th June which, with the right investment, will improve and enhance the support and provision for learners with special educational needs.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Careers Service offers impartial and personalised guidance and support on an all-age, all-ability basis, provided by professionally qualified Careers Advisers. This support empowers clients to make their own learning and career decisions, based on up to date labour market information, knowledge of career pathway options and an understanding of their own strengths, talents, skills and interests.Through established partnership working with post-primary schools, including special schools, careers services are prioritised for pupils with barriers and those who are considered vulnerable and most in need. This includes those with a disability, a medical condition and a statement of Special Educational Need. For young people with a statement of Special Educational Need, Careers Advisers attend Transition Plan Meetings and their subsequent Annual Reviews at the invitation of the school. This support allows young people, and their parents and guardians, to make informed decisions about the options available to them on the range of educational, training and employment opportunities. Careers Advisers continue to work with pupils beyond school, assisting with next steps and planning of their career pathway to ensure they are fully supported in the transition from school to adult provision and employment. The provision of appropriate, timely and specialised careers guidance is key to enabling individuals of all ages and abilities to make informed career decisions. The recently published Careers Action Plan recognises this and sets out a programme of collaborative work which will improve the careers ecosystem for the benefit of all individuals. Building on dedicated initiatives already under way, specific action will be taken to strengthen the support for children and young people with special educational needs and to improve pathways to appropriate learning and employment opportunities. My Department’s Careers Service has a key role in this work. You may also be aware of the proposals for reform that I outlined to Assembly colleagues on 16th June which, with the right investment, will improve and enhance the support and provision for learners with special educational needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029274%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444754"}},{"id":"444275","reference":"AQW 29123/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-23","answerBy":"2025-07-08","answered":"2025-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 28695/22-27, whether he will establish a data sharing arrangement with the Department of Health to establish the numbers of children and young people on the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service waiting list experiencing (i) chronic; and (ii) severe chronic, school absence.","answerText":"Both my Department and the Education Authority would welcome any data sharing agreement which might assist policy and service areas to work collaboratively to support children and young people.","answerHtml":"Both my Department and the Education Authority would welcome any data sharing agreement which might assist policy and service areas to work collaboratively to support children and young people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029123%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444275","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444275"}},{"id":"444123","reference":"AQW 29053/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-20","answerBy":"2025-07-07","answered":"2025-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to outline when the Planning (General Permitted Development) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015, Part 2 Installation of Domestic Microgeneration Equipment, C1 (b) will be reviewed and updated to provide permitted development for the installation of more than 14 square metres of stand-alone, ground level, solar panelling for a domestic premises.","answerText":"I have currently no plans to review the permitted development rights for the installation of Domestic Microgeneration Equipment at this stage.","answerHtml":"I have currently no plans to review the permitted development rights for the installation of Domestic Microgeneration Equipment at this stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029053%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444123"}},{"id":"444122","reference":"AQW 29052/22-27","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 (i) whether there are any actions he can take to accelerate Foundation Programme Allocations for 2025; and (ii) what actions will he take for future years.","answerText":"I have assumed that your question relates to the Medical Foundation Training Programme. My officials work closely with colleagues in the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency, who manage this programme on my Department’s behalf, to ensure that Medical Foundation training posts are allocated as quickly as possible to applicants, as soon as posts are made available. Medical Foundation training posts are allocated on a UK-wide basis via a national 4 nation recruitment and allocation process, and NIMDTA work closely with other UK jurisdictions in relation to allocations to the Northern Ireland programme.\n\nMy officials and NIMDTA will continue to work closely with UK counterparts to ensure Foundation Training Programme places for future years are allocated as quickly as possible.","answerHtml":"I have assumed that your question relates to the Medical Foundation Training Programme. My officials work closely with colleagues in the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency, who manage this programme on my Department’s behalf, to ensure that Medical Foundation training posts are allocated as quickly as possible to applicants, as soon as posts are made available. Medical Foundation training posts are allocated on a UK-wide basis via a national 4 nation recruitment and allocation process, and NIMDTA work closely with other UK jurisdictions in relation to allocations to the Northern Ireland programme.
My officials and NIMDTA will continue to work closely with UK counterparts to ensure Foundation Training Programme places for future years are allocated as quickly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029052%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444122"}},{"id":"443998","reference":"AQO 2249/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-19","answerBy":"2025-06-30","answered":"2025-06-30","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 - Interim Report.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"I welcome the timely publication of the 'Independent Review of Environmental Governance in Northern Ireland - Interim Report'. It marks a significant step in the overall review process, with the independent panel now moving towards its final report. The need to strengthen environmental governance has never been more pressing, particularly in the context of the significant environmental challenges that we face, not least those experienced at Lough Neagh. Many others share my desire to see meaningful change and to support those tasked with protecting our environment. There has been positive engagement with the process to date, and there is clearly significant interest in seeing progress. That is why I chose to publish the interim report. The panel's final report is expected this summer, and I will then carefully consider its recommendations and include what can be taken forward in the short, medium and long term as part of a proposal to Executive colleagues in the autumn. We all must play our part in protecting our precious environment, and I will play my part in seeing the ways in which we can strengthen environmental governance in Northern Ireland."},{"speaker":"Ms K Armstrong","text":"Thank you very much, Minister. You mentioned environmental governance: will you outline what the next steps might be to strengthen environmental governance following the publication this summer of the panel's final report?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"Thank you, Kellie. In the interim report, the panel identified two areas that, it feels, require further work. One is fleshing out the proposal for a new non-departmental public body. In essence, that would be the independent environmental protection agency. The other is reflecting the shared responsibilities for improving environmental governance in Northern Ireland. Once I get the final report, I will consider it and bring a proposal to the Executive. We have talked an awful lot about an independent environmental protection agency. The independent panel has done really good work on fleshing out what exactly that needs to be. The panel will finalise that, and, hopefully, Executive colleagues will be able to agree a way forward."},{"speaker":"Ms Ennis","text":"Minister, surely the people of Warrenpoint deserve good environmental governance when it comes to the ongoing decision by your Department and the NIEA to allow Re-Gen to store tens of thousands of tons of putrid black-bin waste in close proximity to people's homes. Minister, the smell returned with ferocity over the weekend. The situation is intolerable, and no community should have to endure it. That is a failure that has been going on for three years. What will it take for you or the NIEA to finally do something about it?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"I am very conscious of people's concerns on that, and many are rightly at the end of their tether. I will speak to officials this afternoon, including the chief executive of the Environment Agency. Whatever we do has to be within our legal vires, but I am conscious of the concerns and will follow the matter up today."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202249%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443998","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-06-30&docID=444644#AQO%202249/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443998"}},{"id":"443657","reference":"AQW 28842/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-17","answerBy":"2025-07-02","answered":"2025-07-08","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 to outline the quality standards adopted by their Department, in relation to how many days they take to respond to letters received by Committees of the Assembly.","answerText":"We endeavour to provide an agreed response within the timescales requested by committees and our internal timescales will be set to reflect this.","answerHtml":"We endeavour to provide an agreed response within the timescales requested by committees and our internal timescales will be set to reflect this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028842%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443657"}},{"id":"443656","reference":"AQW 28841/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-17","answerBy":"2025-07-02","answered":"2025-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to confirm if he is considering to permit for-profit businesses to operate in the social housing market.","answerText":"I am not considering permitting for-profit businesses to operate in the social housing market. It is specified in legislation that Registered Housing Associations may not trade for profit.\n\nHowever, Registered Housing Associations may leverage private investment. As part of my work on the Housing Supply Strategy I am considering how to develop further sources of investment to better augment social housing delivery.","answerHtml":"I am not considering permitting for-profit businesses to operate in the social housing market. It is specified in legislation that Registered Housing Associations may not trade for profit.
However, Registered Housing Associations may leverage private investment. As part of my work on the Housing Supply Strategy I am considering how to develop further sources of investment to better augment social housing delivery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028841%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443656"}},{"id":"443655","reference":"AQW 28840/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-17","answerBy":"2025-07-02","answered":"2025-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline if those found guilty of participation in violent disorder in early June against the Community in Ballymena, Portadown and other areas will be investigated by the Minister’s benefit fraud team, in order to ensure that any person who has been found guilty of taking part in such disorder has not claimed they have limited capacity for work.","answerText":"My Department will consider information provided by law enforcement agencies and will initiate benefit fraud investigations on those found guilty of participation in the recent violent disorder across Northern Ireland, where there is credible evidence suggesting that those individuals have been fraudulently claiming benefits.\n\nIf an individual is suspected of benefit fraud, reports can be made in confidence online via nidirect or by contacting the Benefit Fraud Hotline on 0800 975 6050.","answerHtml":"My Department will consider information provided by law enforcement agencies and will initiate benefit fraud investigations on those found guilty of participation in the recent violent disorder across Northern Ireland, where there is credible evidence suggesting that those individuals have been fraudulently claiming benefits.
If an individual is suspected of benefit fraud, reports can be made in confidence online via nidirect or by contacting the Benefit Fraud Hotline on 0800 975 6050.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028840%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443655"}},{"id":"443654","reference":"AQW 28839/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-17","answerBy":"2025-07-02","answered":"2025-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to confirm what plans are in place to (i) regrout or (ii) appropriately rejoint the cobblestones around Parliament Buildings.","answerText":"The Assembly Commission is committed to maintaining Parliament Buildings and the surrounding grounds in keeping with its Grade A listed status. As part of this ongoing effort, work will take place during the summer recess to repoint the cobblestones and replace damaged flagstones.\n\nThese repairs have been scheduled to follow the recent specialist stone cleaning, as some of the damage was worsened by the use of the cherry picker during that process.","answerHtml":"The Assembly Commission is committed to maintaining Parliament Buildings and the surrounding grounds in keeping with its Grade A listed status. As part of this ongoing effort, work will take place during the summer recess to repoint the cobblestones and replace damaged flagstones.
These repairs have been scheduled to follow the recent specialist stone cleaning, as some of the damage was worsened by the use of the cherry picker during that process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028839%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443654"}},{"id":"443653","reference":"AQW 28838/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-17","answerBy":"2025-07-02","answered":"2025-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to clarify (i) the terms and conditions for the Housing Policy Panel; and (ii) how appointments to the panel are made.","answerText":"The Housing Policy Panel was established as part of the Tenant Participation Strategy to represent social housing tenants in the development of departmental policies that are relevant to their interests. No parameters were set for its operation or formation by the Department. As the appointed Independent Tenant Organisation, Supporting Communities NI were responsible for establishing the Housing Policy Panel and for developing its Terms of Reference as part of the first action plan for the Tenant Participation Strategy.\n\nTenant representatives are nominated by Registered Housing Associations from their tenant engagement groups and from the Housing Executive’s Central Housing Forum.","answerHtml":"The Housing Policy Panel was established as part of the Tenant Participation Strategy to represent social housing tenants in the development of departmental policies that are relevant to their interests. No parameters were set for its operation or formation by the Department. As the appointed Independent Tenant Organisation, Supporting Communities NI were responsible for establishing the Housing Policy Panel and for developing its Terms of Reference as part of the first action plan for the Tenant Participation Strategy.
Tenant representatives are nominated by Registered Housing Associations from their tenant engagement groups and from the Housing Executive’s Central Housing Forum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028838%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443653"}},{"id":"443306","reference":"AQW 28699/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-13","answerBy":"2025-06-30","answered":"2025-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail on the number of children awaiting an ADHD assessment in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust in each of the last ten years, broken down by (i) how many have been waiting (a) less than one year; (b) more than one year; (c) two years; (d) three years; (e) four years; (f) five years; and (g) over six years; and (ii) how many children were moved off the waiting list as they had become adults.","answerText":"Health and Social care Trusts follow the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), to manage autism referrals. IEAP is a regional guidance document issued by the DHSSPS, updated in June 2020.\n\n(i) Table 1 below details on the number of children awaiting an\n\nADHD assessment in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust in each of the last ten years, broken down by years waiting as requested.\n\nWithin the South Eastern H&SC Trust, there are a number of children who may be awaiting assessment for ADHD who are on the Autism Neuro-developmental waiting list, this is a list for children and young people who are being assessed for Autism, but based on referral information have an increased level of complexity; this may be due to trauma and or possible ADHD presentation.\n\nTable 1.\n\nWait List- Year End (31 March)\t< 1 year\t> 1 year\t> 2 years\t> 3 years\t> 4 years\t> 5 years\t> 6 years\tTOTAL\n2015/16\t113\t\t\t\t\t\t\t113\n2016/17\t143\t<5\t\t\t\t\t\t144\n2017/18\t196\t11\t\t\t\t\t\t207\n2018/19\t227\t229\t\t\t\t\t\t456\n2019/20\t21\t498\t<5\t\t\t\t\t520\n2020/21\t354\t113\t\t\t\t\t\t467\n2021/22\t456\t155\t\t\t\t\t\t611\n2022/23\t423\t342\t<5\t\t\t\t\t766\n2023/24*\t567\t498\t10\t\t\t\t\t1075\n2024/25*\t582\t652\t377\t<5\t\t\t\t1613\n\n(ii) The South Eastern H&SC Trust does not remove young people from the new patient ADHD waiting list because they have turned 18years of age; one consultant will see and assess these young people if they choose to remain on the Children’s services waiting list. Young people, age 18 years or over would only be discharged from waiting list if they did not respond to partial booking letters, or did not attend an appointment.\n\nTable 2 below shows the number of young people over 18 on the paediatric waiting list who did not respond to partial booking letters, or did not attend an appointment and therefore were discharged from the paediatric waiting list without completing an assessment.\n\nYear\t\tYoung People over 18\n2015/16\t\t<5\n2016/17\t\t5\n2017/18\t\t<5\n2018/19\t\t<5\n2019/20\t\t<5\n2020/21\t\t<5\n2021/22\t\t0\n2022/23\t\t<5\n2023/24*\t\tNot available\n2024/25*\t\t<5\n\n*Due to the implementation of Encompass accurate figures are not obtainable due to data validation and data migration challenges","answerHtml":"Health and Social care Trusts follow the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), to manage autism referrals. IEAP is a regional guidance document issued by the DHSSPS, updated in June 2020.
(i) Table 1 below details on the number of children awaiting an
ADHD assessment in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust in each of the last ten years, broken down by years waiting as requested.
Within the South Eastern H&SC Trust, there are a number of children who may be awaiting assessment for ADHD who are on the Autism Neuro-developmental waiting list, this is a list for children and young people who are being assessed for Autism, but based on referral information have an increased level of complexity; this may be due to trauma and or possible ADHD presentation.
Table 1.
| Wait List- Year End (31 March) | < 1 year | > 1 year | > 2 years | > 3 years | > 4 years | > 5 years | > 6 years | TOTAL |
| 2015/16 | 113 | 113 | ||||||
| 2016/17 | 143 | <5 | 144 | |||||
| 2017/18 | 196 | 11 | 207 | |||||
| 2018/19 | 227 | 229 | 456 | |||||
| 2019/20 | 21 | 498 | <5 | 520 | ||||
| 2020/21 | 354 | 113 | 467 | |||||
| 2021/22 | 456 | 155 | 611 | |||||
| 2022/23 | 423 | 342 | <5 | 766 | ||||
| 2023/24* | 567 | 498 | 10 | 1075 | ||||
| 2024/25* | 582 | 652 | 377 | <5 | 1613 |
(ii) The South Eastern H&SC Trust does not remove young people from the new patient ADHD waiting list because they have turned 18years of age; one consultant will see and assess these young people if they choose to remain on the Children’s services waiting list. Young people, age 18 years or over would only be discharged from waiting list if they did not respond to partial booking letters, or did not attend an appointment.
Table 2 below shows the number of young people over 18 on the paediatric waiting list who did not respond to partial booking letters, or did not attend an appointment and therefore were discharged from the paediatric waiting list without completing an assessment.
| Year | Young People over 18 | |
| 2015/16 | <5 | |
| 2016/17 | 5 | |
| 2017/18 | <5 | |
| 2018/19 | <5 | |
| 2019/20 | <5 | |
| 2020/21 | <5 | |
| 2021/22 | 0 | |
| 2022/23 | <5 | |
| 2023/24* | Not available | |
| 2024/25* | <5 |
*Due to the implementation of Encompass accurate figures are not obtainable due to data validation and data migration challenges
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028699%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443306","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443306"}},{"id":"443305","reference":"AQW 28698/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-13","answerBy":"2025-06-30","answered":"2025-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, following HM Treasury's Green Book Review 2025, whether he will implement a similar update to appraisals in his Department to enable the more effective assessment of place-based interventions such as the (i) roll out of a national retrofit programme; or (ii) placement of new build developments.","answerText":"My officials have been liaising with their Treasury counterparts on the Green Book Review and I understand that Treasury intends to publish the updated Green Book early in 2026.\n\nThe Green Book is the foundation of my Department’s economic appraisal guidance. If there are any updates to the Green Book that could be applied here to aid more effective assessments, including those relating to place-based interventions, my officials will consult with colleagues in other departments when considering the implications for appraisal guidance here.","answerHtml":"My officials have been liaising with their Treasury counterparts on the Green Book Review and I understand that Treasury intends to publish the updated Green Book early in 2026.
The Green Book is the foundation of my Department’s economic appraisal guidance. If there are any updates to the Green Book that could be applied here to aid more effective assessments, including those relating to place-based interventions, my officials will consult with colleagues in other departments when considering the implications for appraisal guidance here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028698%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443305","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443305"}},{"id":"443304","reference":"AQW 28697/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-13","answerBy":"2025-06-30","answered":"2025-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following HM Treasury's Green Book Review 2025, whether he will implement a similar update to appraisals in his Department to enable the more effective assessment of place-based interventions such as the (i) roll out of a national retrofit programme; or (ii) placement of new build developments.","answerText":"There are currently no plans to update the approach to appraisals in my Department. The HM Treasury Green Book Review was published on Wednesday 11 June 2025. The review notes that HM Treasury will establish a new joint taskforce to develop the approach to place-based business cases and oversee their implementation. It is too early to say if, or how, the approach to appraisals within the Department for Communities may change. Appraisal guidance for NICS Departments issues centrally from the Department of Finance and my Department will engage with the Department of Finance on the issue.","answerHtml":"There are currently no plans to update the approach to appraisals in my Department. The HM Treasury Green Book Review was published on Wednesday 11 June 2025. The review notes that HM Treasury will establish a new joint taskforce to develop the approach to place-based business cases and oversee their implementation. It is too early to say if, or how, the approach to appraisals within the Department for Communities may change. Appraisal guidance for NICS Departments issues centrally from the Department of Finance and my Department will engage with the Department of Finance on the issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028697%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443304","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443304"}},{"id":"443303","reference":"AQW 28696/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-13","answerBy":"2025-06-30","answered":"2025-07-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following the Chancellor of the Exchequer's intention to introduce a 10-year rent settlement, to detail any plans he has to replicate these rent controls and align increases in social housing with Consumer Price Index plus 1 per cent from 2026.","answerText":"Rent setting for Registered Housing Associations (RHAs) lies outside of my remit and it is a matter for individual Housing Association Boards to determine appropriate rent levels and to consider and approve any rent increases.\n\nWith regards to rent setting for NIHE, increase requests are considered by my Department and DoF on an annual basis and are subject to evaluation and approval.","answerHtml":"Rent setting for Registered Housing Associations (RHAs) lies outside of my remit and it is a matter for individual Housing Association Boards to determine appropriate rent levels and to consider and approve any rent increases.
With regards to rent setting for NIHE, increase requests are considered by my Department and DoF on an annual basis and are subject to evaluation and approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028696%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443303","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443303"}},{"id":"443302","reference":"AQW 28695/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-13","answerBy":"2025-06-30","answered":"2025-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail whether his Department has evidence of any negative impact on the (i) educational attainment; and (ii) attendance levels, of children who are on a waiting list to see Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, broken down by Health Trust area.","answerText":"Neither my department nor the Education Authority holds the data by Health Trust Areas on waiting lists for CAMHS.\n\nIf a child is awaiting an assessment from CAMHS and cannot attend school while awaiting assessment, schools will follow the Code of Practice and utilise services such as Education Psychology and Education Welfare Service to support need.","answerHtml":"Neither my department nor the Education Authority holds the data by Health Trust Areas on waiting lists for CAMHS.
If a child is awaiting an assessment from CAMHS and cannot attend school while awaiting assessment, schools will follow the Code of Practice and utilise services such as Education Psychology and Education Welfare Service to support need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028695%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443302","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443302"}},{"id":"444552","reference":"AQO 2226/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-12","answerBy":"2025-06-24","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 to outline the barriers to identifying modern slavery and human trafficking in the context of child criminal exploitation.","answerText":"ORAL QUESTION No 14 - AQO 2226/22-27 – WITHDRAWN\n\nANSWER\n\nOn 11th June, my Department launched the findings of our co-commissioned research project examining barriers to recognising Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) as a form of Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe report highlights that, despite increasing awareness, formal identification through the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) remains limited. It points to Northern Ireland’s unique social and political context, where harm linked to paramilitary and organised crime is often normalised, which presents a significant challenge in recognising exploitation among victims, families, and professionals. It also notes that practitioners may lack confidence in using the NRM, particularly where child protection systems already exist, and that safety concerns further deter referrals. The report suggests that the current definition of trafficking, with its emphasis on movement, may not fully reflect the nature of CCE in this context.\n\nMy Department acknowledges these findings and will carefully consider the recommendations as part of our ongoing work to strengthen the response to CCE.","answerHtml":"ORAL QUESTION No 14 - AQO 2226/22-27 – WITHDRAWN
ANSWER
On 11th June, my Department launched the findings of our co-commissioned research project examining barriers to recognising Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) as a form of Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) in Northern Ireland.
The report highlights that, despite increasing awareness, formal identification through the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) remains limited. It points to Northern Ireland’s unique social and political context, where harm linked to paramilitary and organised crime is often normalised, which presents a significant challenge in recognising exploitation among victims, families, and professionals. It also notes that practitioners may lack confidence in using the NRM, particularly where child protection systems already exist, and that safety concerns further deter referrals. The report suggests that the current definition of trafficking, with its emphasis on movement, may not fully reflect the nature of CCE in this context.
My Department acknowledges these findings and will carefully consider the recommendations as part of our ongoing work to strengthen the response to CCE.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202226%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444552","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444552"}},{"id":"442568","reference":"AQW 28433/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-09","answerBy":"2025-06-24","answered":"2025-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities,pursuant to AQO 2109/22-27, (i) to clarify comments he made which intimated the the Mears Group are housing illegal immigrants; and (ii) for his assessment of the legal obligation for the UK to protect refugees and asylum seekers.","answerText":"Your assertion is incorrect, and I would refer you to the answer I gave to AQO 2109/22-27\n\nImmigration is an excepted matter and the lead government department with responsibility for legal obligations to asylum seekers across the UK is the Home Office.\n\nWhere an individual has been accepted by the Home Office as a refugee and given leave to remain in the UK, in most cases this will bring an entitlement to access public services including housing and homelessness assistance for which my Department is responsible in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Your assertion is incorrect, and I would refer you to the answer I gave to AQO 2109/22-27
Immigration is an excepted matter and the lead government department with responsibility for legal obligations to asylum seekers across the UK is the Home Office.
Where an individual has been accepted by the Home Office as a refugee and given leave to remain in the UK, in most cases this will bring an entitlement to access public services including housing and homelessness assistance for which my Department is responsible in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028433%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442568","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442568"}},{"id":"442161","reference":"AQO 2174/22-27","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 for an update on the Help with Health Costs Scheme consultation.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"I assure the Member that work on the proposed changes to the legislation remains a key focus for my Department and that I am committed to ensuring that that work is completed without undue delay."},{"speaker":"","text":"The public consultation on the proposed eligibility criteria for passporting universal credit recipients closed on 10 March. I welcome the openness, feedback and engagement from all who participated in the consultation. Officials are currently analysing the responses and compiling a consultation summary report that will be published on the departmental website in the coming weeks. In the context of the extremely difficult financial environment, implementing the existing GB thresholds remains the preferred option. That will preserve parity with the rest of the UK. It is also the most affordable to the Health budget and will ensure continuity of eligibility for the most vulnerable."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"That draws to a conclusion the time for listed questions. We now move to topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202174%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442161","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-06-17&docID=442840#AQO%202174/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442161"}},{"id":"442845","reference":"AQO 2133/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-29","answerBy":"2025-06-10","answered":"2025-06-10","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 provide an update on the progress of the Review of Higher Education Funding.","answerText":"It is clear that the current funding model does not work for our local universities and university colleges, and it does not work for students. That is why I am committed to a review of Higher Education Funding.\n\nI want to work in partnership with the five higher education institutions in the north and related stakeholders to address the funding challenges faced going forward. My officials have therefore been engaging with key stakeholders over the past number of months regarding the potential scope and approach to the review.\n\nOfficials are currently finalising the draft terms of reference and will brief me in the coming weeks. The review is likely to involve three specific strands of work:\n\nan assessment of financial sustainability, with a first stage comprising a financial needs assessment;\n\nthe teaching funding model; and\n\nsupport for students.\n\nThe Financial Needs Assessment is expected to be the first element of the review to commence. This will assess the financial needs of each of the five local higher education institutions for the coming three to five years.\n\nI intend to ensure key stakeholders including the institutions, students and staff are fully involved as the Review progresses.","answerHtml":"It is clear that the current funding model does not work for our local universities and university colleges, and it does not work for students. That is why I am committed to a review of Higher Education Funding.
I want to work in partnership with the five higher education institutions in the north and related stakeholders to address the funding challenges faced going forward. My officials have therefore been engaging with key stakeholders over the past number of months regarding the potential scope and approach to the review.
Officials are currently finalising the draft terms of reference and will brief me in the coming weeks. The review is likely to involve three specific strands of work:
an assessment of financial sustainability, with a first stage comprising a financial needs assessment;
the teaching funding model; and
support for students.
The Financial Needs Assessment is expected to be the first element of the review to commence. This will assess the financial needs of each of the five local higher education institutions for the coming three to five years.
I intend to ensure key stakeholders including the institutions, students and staff are fully involved as the Review progresses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202133%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442845","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442845"}},{"id":"440921","reference":"AQW 27732/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-27","answerBy":"2025-06-11","answered":"2025-06-10","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 when the next phase of the review of (i) energy efficiency requirements and; (ii) related areas of Building Regulations, will be consulted upon.","answerText":"My Department consulted on a discussion document on amendments to the Building Regulations to improve energy efficiency and address related areas in new buildings or where buildings are substantially modified. The consultation ended in December 2023 and since then officials have been working with key stakeholders in other Departments and our Building Regulations Advisory Committee (NIBRAC) to analyse the responses to the discussion document and bring forward proposals for potential amendments to the Building Regulations. This will provide an indication, to the public, industry and others with an interest, of the proposed approach across those areas and timeframes for future uplifts.\n\nI plan to seek Executive approval for publication of the response to the discussion document before the summer recess with a full legislative consultation on the subsequent proposed uplifts in these areas anticipated by the second half of 2026.","answerHtml":"My Department consulted on a discussion document on amendments to the Building Regulations to improve energy efficiency and address related areas in new buildings or where buildings are substantially modified. The consultation ended in December 2023 and since then officials have been working with key stakeholders in other Departments and our Building Regulations Advisory Committee (NIBRAC) to analyse the responses to the discussion document and bring forward proposals for potential amendments to the Building Regulations. This will provide an indication, to the public, industry and others with an interest, of the proposed approach across those areas and timeframes for future uplifts.
I plan to seek Executive approval for publication of the response to the discussion document before the summer recess with a full legislative consultation on the subsequent proposed uplifts in these areas anticipated by the second half of 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027732%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440921","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440921"}},{"id":"440920","reference":"AQW 27731/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-27","answerBy":"2025-06-11","answered":"2025-06-09","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 when the second religion question will be removed from the census in line with the rest of these islands.","answerText":"NISRA, which has responsibility for planning and delivering a census here, plans to consult with users in advance of the next census to identify their need for future statistics relating to population and housing. This will include development of census questions for 2031.","answerHtml":"NISRA, which has responsibility for planning and delivering a census here, plans to consult with users in advance of the next census to identify their need for future statistics relating to population and housing. This will include development of census questions for 2031.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027731%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440920","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440920"}},{"id":"440919","reference":"AQW 27730/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-27","answerBy":"2025-06-11","answered":"2025-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the draft revised design standards for housing for older people (category 1 and category 2) will be implemented and made mandatory.","answerText":"In addition to the current draft design standards for Category 1 and Category 2 housing, my Department is piloting ‘Housing our Ageing Population: Panel for Innovation’ (HAPPI) design recommendations which provide for generous space standards, provision of natural daylight, good ventilation, ample storage, and design of communal spaces to encourage social interaction.\n\nOnce sufficient cost and post-occupancy data is available from additional schemes, a decision will be made whether to bring this forward for approval, subject to Social Housing Development Programme budget.","answerHtml":"In addition to the current draft design standards for Category 1 and Category 2 housing, my Department is piloting ‘Housing our Ageing Population: Panel for Innovation’ (HAPPI) design recommendations which provide for generous space standards, provision of natural daylight, good ventilation, ample storage, and design of communal spaces to encourage social interaction.
Once sufficient cost and post-occupancy data is available from additional schemes, a decision will be made whether to bring this forward for approval, subject to Social Housing Development Programme budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027730%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440919","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440919"}},{"id":"440918","reference":"AQW 27729/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-27","answerBy":"2025-06-11","answered":"2025-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many occupational therapists have received training on Housing our Ageing Population Panel for Innovation design principles, to ensure appropriate age-friendly and accessible standards are included when considering housing adaptations as part of their assessment for the Disabled Facilities Grant.","answerText":"The principles of the Housing Aging Population for Innovation Design Principles (HAPPI) are embedded in core training provided to Occupational Therapists at undergraduate level in Ulster University.\n\nHowever, there is no specific training related to HAPPI principles. Consequently, it is not possible to quantify the number of occupational therapists who have received training.\n\nThe Department has also worked with Ulster University in the development of a postgraduate module covering Housing Adaptations and Design for Community Living which is delivered for 20 Occupational Therapists each year. This module focuses on internal and external access to/from and within the home to help therapists identify design solutions to inform their clinical decision making as part of the assessment process for housing adaptations. It is relevant to all housing tenures and is not explicit to the assessment for Disabled Facilities Grant which is available for private sector homes only.","answerHtml":"The principles of the Housing Aging Population for Innovation Design Principles (HAPPI) are embedded in core training provided to Occupational Therapists at undergraduate level in Ulster University.
However, there is no specific training related to HAPPI principles. Consequently, it is not possible to quantify the number of occupational therapists who have received training.
The Department has also worked with Ulster University in the development of a postgraduate module covering Housing Adaptations and Design for Community Living which is delivered for 20 Occupational Therapists each year. This module focuses on internal and external access to/from and within the home to help therapists identify design solutions to inform their clinical decision making as part of the assessment process for housing adaptations. It is relevant to all housing tenures and is not explicit to the assessment for Disabled Facilities Grant which is available for private sector homes only.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027729%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440918","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440918"}},{"id":"440917","reference":"AQW 27728/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-27","answerBy":"2025-06-11","answered":"2025-06-11","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 preparatory work for updating the Travelling Expenses and Remission of Charges Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004; and (ii) when the legislation will be brought forward.","answerText":"The public consultation on the proposed eligibility criteria for passporting Universal Credit (UC) recipients closed on 10 March 2025. I welcome the openness, feedback and engagement from all who have participated in the consultation.\n\nOfficials are currently analysing the responses and compiling a Consultation Summary Report which will be published on the Departmental website in the coming weeks. It is intended that the legislative process will be completed by summer.\n\nMy aim is to ensure that those most in need automatically receive help to access these very important health services.\n\nAs you are aware, whilst the legislative process is ongoing, an interim measure remains in place for UC recipients who need financial assistance with their health costs. This is via the Health Service Low Income Scheme (LIS), where UC claimants are required to apply annually to gain a potential exemption or remission from their health costs.","answerHtml":"The public consultation on the proposed eligibility criteria for passporting Universal Credit (UC) recipients closed on 10 March 2025. I welcome the openness, feedback and engagement from all who have participated in the consultation.
Officials are currently analysing the responses and compiling a Consultation Summary Report which will be published on the Departmental website in the coming weeks. It is intended that the legislative process will be completed by summer.
My aim is to ensure that those most in need automatically receive help to access these very important health services.
As you are aware, whilst the legislative process is ongoing, an interim measure remains in place for UC recipients who need financial assistance with their health costs. This is via the Health Service Low Income Scheme (LIS), where UC claimants are required to apply annually to gain a potential exemption or remission from their health costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027728%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440917","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440917"}},{"id":"439820","reference":"AQW 27266/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-16","answerBy":"2025-06-03","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 whether any progress has been made on an independent review of the legal duties owed to homeless people and the development of legislation for a statutory duty to prevent homelessness.","answerText":"Whilst I have not made any commitment to a comprehensive independent review of the legal duties owed to individuals experiencing homelessness, there may be opportunity to change the underpinning legislation to better support our policy aims.\n\nMy officials continue to engage with the Housing Executive and stakeholders in this regard.","answerHtml":"Whilst I have not made any commitment to a comprehensive independent review of the legal duties owed to individuals experiencing homelessness, there may be opportunity to change the underpinning legislation to better support our policy aims.
My officials continue to engage with the Housing Executive and stakeholders in this regard.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027266%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439820","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439820"}},{"id":"439819","reference":"AQW 27265/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-16","answerBy":"2025-06-03","answered":"2025-06-26","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 action the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People recommendations for Own Motion Powers to represent children and young persons.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People’s recommendations for Own Motion powers are currently under consideration. This is being taken forward in the context of ongoing work to address the recommendations of the ‘New Decade, New Approach’ review of NICCY.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People’s recommendations for Own Motion powers are currently under consideration. This is being taken forward in the context of ongoing work to address the recommendations of the ‘New Decade, New Approach’ review of NICCY.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027265%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439819","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439819"}},{"id":"439818","reference":"AQW 27264/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-16","answerBy":"2025-06-03","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 (i) the funding mechanism used for (a) the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland; and (b) the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People; and (ii) whether there is a ring-fenced funding allocation for the commissioners in the budget rather than dependence on monitoring rounds.","answerText":"My Department funds the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People through Grant-In-Aid. There is no ring-fenced funding allocation for either Commissioner.","answerHtml":"My Department funds the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People through Grant-In-Aid. There is no ring-fenced funding allocation for either Commissioner.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027264%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439818"}},{"id":"439817","reference":"AQW 27263/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-16","answerBy":"2025-06-03","answered":"2025-07-03","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 when the 2024 Good Relations Indicators report will be published.","answerText":"The 2023 report was published on 12th December 2024 and the Good Relations Indicators 2024 report is planned for publication in Autumn 2025.","answerHtml":"The 2023 report was published on 12th December 2024 and the Good Relations Indicators 2024 report is planned for publication in Autumn 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027263%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439817"}},{"id":"439344","reference":"AQW 27036/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","answered":"2025-08-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of (i) people; and (ii) households, who are (a) on the social housing waiting list; (b) in housing stress; and (c) with Full Duty Applicant Status, on 31 March and on 30 September in each of the last ten years, broken down by local council area and age of person or household.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW/27036/22-27 the information has been placed in the assembly library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW/27036/22-27 the information has been placed in the assembly library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027036%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439344","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439344"}},{"id":"439343","reference":"AQW 27035/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","answered":"2025-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the additional £1 million proposed in the 2025/26 budget for pipeline schemes for the Supporting People programme can solely be used to fund new schemes, or can it be used to address currently existing cost pressures in Supporting People projects.","answerText":"The proposed additional allocation of £1.0m will help bring forward new and extended services which align to the 3 year Supporting People Strategy and aim to prevent homelessness.\n\nThese additional services will provide more housing support to vulnerable people and provide the opportunity to improve their quality of life and achieve greater independence within this valued Programme.","answerHtml":"The proposed additional allocation of £1.0m will help bring forward new and extended services which align to the 3 year Supporting People Strategy and aim to prevent homelessness.
These additional services will provide more housing support to vulnerable people and provide the opportunity to improve their quality of life and achieve greater independence within this valued Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027035%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439343","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439343"}},{"id":"439342","reference":"AQW 27034/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","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 his Department estimates for what the additional cost in: (i) Employer National Insurance Contributions; and (ii) National Living Wage increases, will be in 2025/26, for projects funded through the homelessness services budget.","answerText":"My Department does not hold staffing and payroll details of organisations that it grant funds to provide homelessness services on its behalf.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold staffing and payroll details of organisations that it grant funds to provide homelessness services on its behalf.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027034%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439342","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439342"}},{"id":"439341","reference":"AQW 27033/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","answered":"2025-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what his Department estimates the additional cost in: (i) Employer National Insurance Contributions; and (ii) National Living Wage increases will be, in 2025/26 for organisations funded through the Supporting People programme and broken down by thematic group.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n‘Please see estimates detailed below in respect of the Employer National Insurance contribution increase and the National Living Wage increase in 2025/26 for organisations funded through the Supporting People programme, broken down by Supporting People Thematic Group.\n\nSP Thematic Group\tEmployer National Insurance Element (£k)\tNational Living Wage Element\n(£k)\nDisability\t901\t1,351\nHomelessness\t890\t1,335\nOlder People\t246\t369\nYoung People\t178\t267\n2,215\t3,322’\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB 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 Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
‘Please see estimates detailed below in respect of the Employer National Insurance contribution increase and the National Living Wage increase in 2025/26 for organisations funded through the Supporting People programme, broken down by Supporting People Thematic Group.
| SP Thematic Group | Employer National Insurance Element (£k) | National Living Wage Element (£k) |
| Disability | 901 | 1,351 |
| Homelessness | 890 | 1,335 |
| Older People | 246 | 369 |
| Young People | 178 | 267 |
| 2,215 | 3,322’ |
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB 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%2027033%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439341","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439341"}},{"id":"439340","reference":"AQW 27032/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","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 the number of (i) people; and (ii) households, living in temporary accommodation on 31 March and 30 September in each of the last ten years, broken down by (a) accommodation type and (b) age of person or household.","answerText":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin April – September 2024, published on 12 December 2024, contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-april-september-2024\n\nData on placements in temporary accommodation from 2018, by household and accommodation type, is available in Section 3 of the accompanying tables. However, I am unable to provide a breakdown in the format you have requested.","answerHtml":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin April – September 2024, published on 12 December 2024, contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-april-september-2024
Data on placements in temporary accommodation from 2018, by household and accommodation type, is available in Section 3 of the accompanying tables. However, I am unable to provide a breakdown in the format you have requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027032%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439340","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439340"}},{"id":"439077","reference":"AQW 26941/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-12","answerBy":"2025-05-28","answered":"2025-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to outline what financial support, for costs related to increased employer National Insurance contributions, is being provided by his Department for those Community and Voluntary and Social Enterprise organisations delivering services to meet his priorities","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nEach public sector contract will have its own specific terms and conditions and therefore any contract modifications necessary to ensure delivery whilst achieving best value for money will be considered by the Department on a case by case basis. Such modifications can include increases to prices required by Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisations delivering services, as a result of the increases in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs).\n\nDecisions on increases in grant funding to meet pressures arising from the increase in employer NICs would also be taken on a case by case basis by the relevant public body.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
Each public sector contract will have its own specific terms and conditions and therefore any contract modifications necessary to ensure delivery whilst achieving best value for money will be considered by the Department on a case by case basis. Such modifications can include increases to prices required by Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisations delivering services, as a result of the increases in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs).
Decisions on increases in grant funding to meet pressures arising from the increase in employer NICs would also be taken on a case by case basis by the relevant public body.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026941%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439077","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439077"}},{"id":"439076","reference":"AQW 26940/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-12","answerBy":"2025-05-28","answered":"2025-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline what financial support, for costs related to increased employer National Insurance contributions, is being provided by his Department for those Community and Voluntary and Social Enterprise organisations delivering services to meet his priorities","answerText":"Unfortunately, given the resource pressures my Department is facing in 2025-26, and the inadequate level of additional funding being provided to address the increased national insurance costs, I am unable at this time to provide any additional support to assist those Community and Voluntary and Social Enterprise organisations delivering services on behalf of my Department.\n\nMy Department currently estimates that it is facing c£300m of inescapable pressures for 2025-26. When other high priority and desirable pressures are included Education’s budget shortfall increases to c£360m.\n\nThe estimated cost to my Department and its arms-length bodies of the National Insurance changes which took effect in April 2025 substantially exceed the additional funding the Department of Finance is proposing to allocate to meet this pressure for 2025-26.\n\nI will continue to make the case to both the Northern Ireland Executive and to HM Treasury that Education in Northern Ireland remains underfunded, and I will continue to seek additional funding via monitoring rounds during 2025-26.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately, given the resource pressures my Department is facing in 2025-26, and the inadequate level of additional funding being provided to address the increased national insurance costs, I am unable at this time to provide any additional support to assist those Community and Voluntary and Social Enterprise organisations delivering services on behalf of my Department.
My Department currently estimates that it is facing c£300m of inescapable pressures for 2025-26. When other high priority and desirable pressures are included Education’s budget shortfall increases to c£360m.
The estimated cost to my Department and its arms-length bodies of the National Insurance changes which took effect in April 2025 substantially exceed the additional funding the Department of Finance is proposing to allocate to meet this pressure for 2025-26.
I will continue to make the case to both the Northern Ireland Executive and to HM Treasury that Education in Northern Ireland remains underfunded, and I will continue to seek additional funding via monitoring rounds during 2025-26.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026940%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439076","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439076"}},{"id":"439075","reference":"AQW 26939/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-12","answerBy":"2025-05-28","answered":"2025-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline what financial support, for costs related to increased employer National Insurance contributions, is being provided by your Department for those Community and Voluntary and Social Enterprise organisations delivering services to meet your priorities","answerText":"Given the rising cost pressures facing the Voluntary and Community Sector, my Department’s funding for community development, infrastructure support, advice and debt advice services will increase by £2.8 million in the 2025/26 financial year. This represents a 9% uplift on the 2024-25 funding level.\n\nMy Department is not the employer for any Voluntary and Community organisations it funds; however, organisations are encouraged to avail of the substantial increase in HMRC Employers Allowance announced in the Budget. This is expected to offset some of the increase to Employers National Insurance Contributions.","answerHtml":"Given the rising cost pressures facing the Voluntary and Community Sector, my Department’s funding for community development, infrastructure support, advice and debt advice services will increase by £2.8 million in the 2025/26 financial year. This represents a 9% uplift on the 2024-25 funding level.
My Department is not the employer for any Voluntary and Community organisations it funds; however, organisations are encouraged to avail of the substantial increase in HMRC Employers Allowance announced in the Budget. This is expected to offset some of the increase to Employers National Insurance Contributions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026939%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439075","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439075"}},{"id":"439074","reference":"AQW 26938/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-12","answerBy":"2025-05-28","answered":"2025-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what financial support for costs related to increased employer National Insurance contributions is being provided by his Department for those community and voluntary and social enterprise organisations delivering services to address his priorities.","answerText":"My recent announcement on 13 May outlined funding being made available to help support non-statutory providers of health and social care to meet their additional National Insurance bills. This package provides a projected £40m covering areas such as social care providers and hospices as well as family health service providers (GPs, dentists, community pharmacies and opticians).\n\nWithin this package, some projected £2.1m of funding has been made available to support Community and Voluntary organisations with these additional costs. A significant element of this funding relates to contracts held between HSC Trusts and individual Community and Voluntary organisations and the application of funding will be based on these local contractual arrangements.\n\nMy announcement sets out that the provision of this funding is not without a financial hit to my Department, but I have taken this action rather than leave our health and social care partners to deal with the financial pressure of increases to Employer National Insurance contributions by themselves.\n\nThis is in line with my three year plan for Health and Social Care which includes stabilisation of services amid the current severe financial pressures.","answerHtml":"My recent announcement on 13 May outlined funding being made available to help support non-statutory providers of health and social care to meet their additional National Insurance bills. This package provides a projected £40m covering areas such as social care providers and hospices as well as family health service providers (GPs, dentists, community pharmacies and opticians).
Within this package, some projected £2.1m of funding has been made available to support Community and Voluntary organisations with these additional costs. A significant element of this funding relates to contracts held between HSC Trusts and individual Community and Voluntary organisations and the application of funding will be based on these local contractual arrangements.
My announcement sets out that the provision of this funding is not without a financial hit to my Department, but I have taken this action rather than leave our health and social care partners to deal with the financial pressure of increases to Employer National Insurance contributions by themselves.
This is in line with my three year plan for Health and Social Care which includes stabilisation of services amid the current severe financial pressures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026938%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439074","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439074"}},{"id":"439073","reference":"AQW 26937/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-12","answerBy":"2025-05-28","answered":"2025-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the outcome and summary of responses to the Equality Impact Assessment within the Department for Communities 2024-25 Budget Consultation will be published.","answerText":"My Department has now published its Budget 2024-25 Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) Final Decisions Report and a Summary of Responses.","answerHtml":"My Department has now published its Budget 2024-25 Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) Final Decisions Report and a Summary of Responses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026937%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439073","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439073"}},{"id":"438920","reference":"AQW 26856/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-09","answerBy":"2025-05-27","answered":"2025-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any work being carried out to make the Northern Ireland Civil Service recruitment processes more flexible in order to fill the number of vacancies across all Departments more effectively and efficiently.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nIn the last year my Department has filled over 3,000 vacancies across the Civil Service to support departments.\n\nThe NICS has recently launched its People Strategy for 2025 -2030. One of the key initiatives of this strategy is to simplify and streamline the recruitment process to ensure we continue to recruit the best people and address capability gaps ensuring a continued supply of talent in the Civil Service. This work has commenced with several improvement initiatives and a review of relevant HR Policy already underway.\n\nWork is also progressing to design future processes to support the implementation of a new integrated Finance and HR system as part of the Integr8 programme.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
In the last year my Department has filled over 3,000 vacancies across the Civil Service to support departments.
The NICS has recently launched its People Strategy for 2025 -2030. One of the key initiatives of this strategy is to simplify and streamline the recruitment process to ensure we continue to recruit the best people and address capability gaps ensuring a continued supply of talent in the Civil Service. This work has commenced with several improvement initiatives and a review of relevant HR Policy already underway.
Work is also progressing to design future processes to support the implementation of a new integrated Finance and HR system as part of the Integr8 programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026856%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438920","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438920"}},{"id":"438919","reference":"AQW 26855/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-09","answerBy":"2025-05-27","answered":"2025-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) to detail any work being carried out to address the Fiscal Council’s observations on departmental income through fees and charges; and (ii) for his assessment of how transparency can be improved.","answerText":"Whilst each department is responsible for the regular review of their fees and charges, the Executives’ Budget Sustainability Plan included a commitment for the Executive to agree to the regular strategic consideration of income generation measures.\n\nNow that the 2025-26 Final Budget has been agreed officials have commenced substantive work on the Strategic Income Review and will consider information gathered from departments on their income generation measures.\n\nIt is expected that this Review will improve the transparency of departmental income, including fees and charges, and will be completed in advance of a multi-year budget being set.","answerHtml":"Whilst each department is responsible for the regular review of their fees and charges, the Executives’ Budget Sustainability Plan included a commitment for the Executive to agree to the regular strategic consideration of income generation measures.
Now that the 2025-26 Final Budget has been agreed officials have commenced substantive work on the Strategic Income Review and will consider information gathered from departments on their income generation measures.
It is expected that this Review will improve the transparency of departmental income, including fees and charges, and will be completed in advance of a multi-year budget being set.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026855%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438919","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438919"}},{"id":"438918","reference":"AQW 26854/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-09","answerBy":"2025-05-27","answered":"2025-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she is considering bringing ground mounted solar photovoltaic panels for domestic buildings into the scope of building inspectors.","answerText":"The scope of building inspectors is not within the remit of my Department.","answerHtml":"The scope of building inspectors is not within the remit of my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026854%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438918","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438918"}},{"id":"438752","reference":"AQW 26789/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-08","answerBy":"2025-05-23","answered":"2025-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what actions are being taken to update the permitted development planning (i) fees; and (ii) criteria to include larger ground mounted solar photovoltaic panels for domestic use.","answerText":"Part 2 of the Schedule to the Planning (General Permitted Development) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015 sets out the permitted development rights for the installation of domestic microgeneration equipment. Class C provides permitted development rights for the installation, alteration or replacement of stand alone solar within the curtilage of a dwellinghouse, subject to certain conditions and limitations, including a 2 metre height restriction, without requiring a planning application.\n\nPermitted development does not attract a planning fee.\n\nI have currently no plans to review these permitted development rights at this stage.","answerHtml":"Part 2 of the Schedule to the Planning (General Permitted Development) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015 sets out the permitted development rights for the installation of domestic microgeneration equipment. Class C provides permitted development rights for the installation, alteration or replacement of stand alone solar within the curtilage of a dwellinghouse, subject to certain conditions and limitations, including a 2 metre height restriction, without requiring a planning application.
Permitted development does not attract a planning fee.
I have currently no plans to review these permitted development rights at this stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026789%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438752","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438752"}},{"id":"438751","reference":"AQW 26788/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-08","answerBy":"2025-05-23","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 confirm if he will bring forward legislation to enable social housing providers to legally transfer a tenancy to a victim of Domestic Violence, in situations where their abuser is the named tenant.","answerText":"Whilst bringing forward new legislation would be for me to consider, I have sought input from the Chief Executive of the Housing Executive on the current position and their view on the need for such a change. They have advised me as follows.\n\n“The power to assign a tenancy from one person to another (on a non-voluntary basis) has been vested in the courts. Social Housing Providers will follow any court order to facilitate a statutory assignment of tenancy. This is referred to as assignment by Court Order.\n\nA court may issue an order for a secure or introductory tenancy to be assigned from one person to another under:\n\nArticle 26 of the Matrimonial Causes (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 (property adjustment orders in connection with matrimonial proceedings)\n\nArticle 21 of the Matrimonial and Family Proceedings (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (property adjustment orders after overseas divorce, &c.)\n\nParagraph 2 of Schedule 1 to the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 (orders for financial relief against parents), or\n\nPart II of Schedule 2 to the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 (orders transferring certain tenancies on divorce, etc., and on separation of cohabitees)\n\nPart 2 of Schedule 15, or paragraph 9(2) or (3) of Schedule 17, to the Civil Partnership Act 2004 (property adjustment orders in connection with civil partnership proceedings or after overseas dissolution of civil partnership, etc.)\n\nIn addition, the existing tenant may make a request to assign the tenancy voluntarily or in the case where the tenant (in a domestic abuse case) terminates the tenancy the social landlord has discretion to consider any remaining partner for an exceptional award of tenancy. Verification of the circumstances will be required.\n\nWhere the tenant has left the property, possession may also be sought on the basis for non-occupation, but this would be a last resort in the absence of a suitable agreed solution. When possession has been granted the landlord may consider any remaining victim for an exceptional award of tenancy.\n\nThere have been a small number of cases brought to the Housing Executive’s attention involving joint tenancies in which the Social Landlord cannot unilaterally vary the tenancy, the courts would remain the (correct) option in those cases. In these cases, the victim remained in the property with the alleged abuser absent (in law the joint tenancy endures so long as one of the joint tenants continues to occupy the property as their principal home).\n\nIt would be the Housing Executive’s view that the power to unilaterally vary tenancies has been correctly vested in the courts and it would not be seeking such a power.”","answerHtml":"Whilst bringing forward new legislation would be for me to consider, I have sought input from the Chief Executive of the Housing Executive on the current position and their view on the need for such a change. They have advised me as follows.
“The power to assign a tenancy from one person to another (on a non-voluntary basis) has been vested in the courts. Social Housing Providers will follow any court order to facilitate a statutory assignment of tenancy. This is referred to as assignment by Court Order.
A court may issue an order for a secure or introductory tenancy to be assigned from one person to another under:
Article 26 of the Matrimonial Causes (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 (property adjustment orders in connection with matrimonial proceedings)
Article 21 of the Matrimonial and Family Proceedings (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (property adjustment orders after overseas divorce, &c.)
Paragraph 2 of Schedule 1 to the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 (orders for financial relief against parents), or
Part II of Schedule 2 to the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 (orders transferring certain tenancies on divorce, etc., and on separation of cohabitees)
Part 2 of Schedule 15, or paragraph 9(2) or (3) of Schedule 17, to the Civil Partnership Act 2004 (property adjustment orders in connection with civil partnership proceedings or after overseas dissolution of civil partnership, etc.)
In addition, the existing tenant may make a request to assign the tenancy voluntarily or in the case where the tenant (in a domestic abuse case) terminates the tenancy the social landlord has discretion to consider any remaining partner for an exceptional award of tenancy. Verification of the circumstances will be required.
Where the tenant has left the property, possession may also be sought on the basis for non-occupation, but this would be a last resort in the absence of a suitable agreed solution. When possession has been granted the landlord may consider any remaining victim for an exceptional award of tenancy.
There have been a small number of cases brought to the Housing Executive’s attention involving joint tenancies in which the Social Landlord cannot unilaterally vary the tenancy, the courts would remain the (correct) option in those cases. In these cases, the victim remained in the property with the alleged abuser absent (in law the joint tenancy endures so long as one of the joint tenants continues to occupy the property as their principal home).
It would be the Housing Executive’s view that the power to unilaterally vary tenancies has been correctly vested in the courts and it would not be seeking such a power.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026788%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438751","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438751"}},{"id":"438750","reference":"AQW 26787/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-08","answerBy":"2025-05-23","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 what actions are being considered to resource safe spaces within homes, of any tenure, for victims of Domestic Violence.","answerText":"The Housing Executive operates the Sanctuary Scheme, which is a multi-agency initiative to enable households, at risk of domestic abuse, to remain in their homes by installing additional security measures which may include a “Sanctuary Room” within the property.\n\nThis scheme is currently only available to Housing Executive tenants. However, the Housing Executive recently published a Domestic Abuse Action Plan which includes plans to explore the potential of extending the Sanctuary Scheme to Housing Association tenants.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive operates the Sanctuary Scheme, which is a multi-agency initiative to enable households, at risk of domestic abuse, to remain in their homes by installing additional security measures which may include a “Sanctuary Room” within the property.
This scheme is currently only available to Housing Executive tenants. However, the Housing Executive recently published a Domestic Abuse Action Plan which includes plans to explore the potential of extending the Sanctuary Scheme to Housing Association tenants.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026787%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438750","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438750"}},{"id":"438749","reference":"AQW 26786/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-08","answerBy":"2025-05-23","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 (i) how many victims of Domestic Violence are currently housed in temporary accommodation; and (ii) how many are (a) living with children and (b) not living with children, broken down per council area.","answerText":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin April – September 2024, published on 12 December 2024, contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-april-september-2024\n\nSection 3 of the accompanying tables contains a breakdown of temporary accommodation placements by household type, as well as the number of children housed in temporary accommodation by type and age. However, I am unable to provide a breakdown of the number of domestic violence victims currently housed in temporary accommodation by council area, or whether they are living with children or not.","answerHtml":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin April – September 2024, published on 12 December 2024, contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-april-september-2024
Section 3 of the accompanying tables contains a breakdown of temporary accommodation placements by household type, as well as the number of children housed in temporary accommodation by type and age. However, I am unable to provide a breakdown of the number of domestic violence victims currently housed in temporary accommodation by council area, or whether they are living with children or not.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026786%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438749","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438749"}},{"id":"438748","reference":"AQW 26785/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-08","answerBy":"2025-05-23","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 confirm the average amount of time a victim of Domestic Violence is housed in temporary accommodation before securing a permanent tenancy.","answerText":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin April – September 2024, published on 12 December 2024, contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-april-september-2024\n\nTable 3.5 contains details on the duration of temporary accommodation placements; however, I am unable to provide a breakdown of the average length of stay for victims of domestic violence.","answerHtml":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin April – September 2024, published on 12 December 2024, contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-april-september-2024
Table 3.5 contains details on the duration of temporary accommodation placements; however, I am unable to provide a breakdown of the average length of stay for victims of domestic violence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026785%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438748","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438748"}},{"id":"438142","reference":"AQW 26492/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-19","answered":"2025-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how the work with the Department of Health on carers and recognition of unpaid carers will be included in his upcoming Disability Strategy.","answerText":"Work is underway to ensure that the Disability Strategy reflects the current needs of Deaf and disabled people alongside the Executive’s priorities.\n\nI can confirm that as part of this process, engagement is taking place with the Department of Health on a range of issues that will be reflected in the draft Strategy.","answerHtml":"Work is underway to ensure that the Disability Strategy reflects the current needs of Deaf and disabled people alongside the Executive’s priorities.
I can confirm that as part of this process, engagement is taking place with the Department of Health on a range of issues that will be reflected in the draft Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026492%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438142","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438142"}},{"id":"438025","reference":"AQW 26416/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-09","answered":"2025-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, in line with commitments his Department made to the recommendations from the LGBTQI+ Strategy Expert Advisory Panel in December 2020, (i) whether work on the development of the stage 2 plan is progressing; and (ii) whether he will provide the Assembly with an update on progress of the stage 2 plan.","answerText":"An Expert Advisory Panel was set up in 2020 to make recommendations to the Department on key themes for development of a Sexual Orientation Strategy. One of the panel’s recommendations was to develop an action plan for delivery of the Strategy, once it had been agreed by the Executive. This Action Plan would be reviewed and refreshed after five years leading to the development of a Stage 2 plan.\n\nFollowing consideration of the work previously carried out to develop each of the Social Inclusion Strategies, alongside unprecedented pressures on resources across Executive departments, I decided to move forward on development of the Strategies on a phased basis, with work now well progressed on the Anti-Poverty and Disability Strategies. Further detail on the timetable for the development of the Sexual Orientation Strategy will be confirmed shortly. The Expert Panel’s recommendations will be considered as part of this development, including future review arrangements.\n\nFinal decisions on content of the Strategy will be subject to Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"An Expert Advisory Panel was set up in 2020 to make recommendations to the Department on key themes for development of a Sexual Orientation Strategy. One of the panel’s recommendations was to develop an action plan for delivery of the Strategy, once it had been agreed by the Executive. This Action Plan would be reviewed and refreshed after five years leading to the development of a Stage 2 plan.
Following consideration of the work previously carried out to develop each of the Social Inclusion Strategies, alongside unprecedented pressures on resources across Executive departments, I decided to move forward on development of the Strategies on a phased basis, with work now well progressed on the Anti-Poverty and Disability Strategies. Further detail on the timetable for the development of the Sexual Orientation Strategy will be confirmed shortly. The Expert Panel’s recommendations will be considered as part of this development, including future review arrangements.
Final decisions on content of the Strategy 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%2026416%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438025","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438025"}},{"id":"438024","reference":"AQW 26415/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","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 whether he or his Department have discussed carer poverty for those citizens who continue to provide over 35 hours of caring per week, but are no longer able to claim or apply for Carers Allowance due to having reached State Pension age.","answerText":"Where a person has reached State Pension age overlapping benefit rules prevent Carer’s Allowance being fully payable at the same time as another income replacement benefit, such as the State Pension.\n\nI met with Carers NI earlier in the year and a number of issues were discussed, including, carer poverty and overlapping benefit rules.","answerHtml":"Where a person has reached State Pension age overlapping benefit rules prevent Carer’s Allowance being fully payable at the same time as another income replacement benefit, such as the State Pension.
I met with Carers NI earlier in the year and a number of issues were discussed, including, carer poverty and overlapping benefit rules.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026415%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438024","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438024"}},{"id":"438023","reference":"AQW 26414/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","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 the definition of vulnerable, as used in his recent Fuel Poverty Strategy consultation.","answerText":"While the draft Fuel Poverty Strategy does not provide a precise definition of vulnerable, it refers to households with low incomes, a long-term health condition or illness exacerbated by cold and damp conditions in their home. These households are most at risk of fuel poverty and most likely to be negatively impacted by it. Good quality, warm, secure housing is vital to both mental and physical health.","answerHtml":"While the draft Fuel Poverty Strategy does not provide a precise definition of vulnerable, it refers to households with low incomes, a long-term health condition or illness exacerbated by cold and damp conditions in their home. These households are most at risk of fuel poverty and most likely to be negatively impacted by it. Good quality, warm, secure housing is vital to both mental and physical health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026414%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438023","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438023"}},{"id":"438022","reference":"AQW 26413/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","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 how his Department plans to identify vulnerable households in relation to the proposals outlined in the recent consultation on a Fuel Poverty Strategy to target and improve energy efficiency in vulnerable households.","answerText":"In the draft Fuel Poverty Strategy, I recognise the importance of collaborating and building partnerships to identify and provide advice and long-term sustainable support to those most in need.\n\nTo raise awareness and identify vulnerable households to support, I will utilise and build upon collaborative partnerships and referral pathways between Government, local Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector. I am committed to building a partnership approach with the voluntary and community sector and health professionals, raising awareness, utilising best practice and providing specialist support when needed.","answerHtml":"In the draft Fuel Poverty Strategy, I recognise the importance of collaborating and building partnerships to identify and provide advice and long-term sustainable support to those most in need.
To raise awareness and identify vulnerable households to support, I will utilise and build upon collaborative partnerships and referral pathways between Government, local Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector. I am committed to building a partnership approach with the voluntary and community sector and health professionals, raising awareness, utilising best practice and providing specialist support when needed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026413%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438022","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438022"}},{"id":"438021","reference":"AQW 26412/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","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 provide a copy of all minutes, or reports, of meetings his Department has had with LGBTQAI+ representatives in relation to plan 2 of the LGBTQIA+ Strategy, or Sexual Orientation Strategy, since 2020, including (i) dates; and (ii) a list of attendees, including departmental role.","answerText":"No meetings have taken place in relation to a Stage 2 plan.","answerHtml":"No meetings have taken place in relation to a Stage 2 plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026412%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438021","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438021"}},{"id":"436545","reference":"AQW 26000/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-10","answerBy":"2025-04-29","answered":"2025-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, further to the Speaker’s comments on 7 April 2025 on Assembly Questions relating to arm’s-length bodies, whether he will reconsider advising Members to go to an arm’s-length body directly for any future queries when responding to an Assembly Written Question.","answerText":"I will continue to comply with the Speaker’s ruling on this matter.","answerHtml":"I will continue to comply with the Speaker’s ruling on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026000%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436545","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436545"}},{"id":"436379","reference":"AQW 25906/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-09","answerBy":"2025-04-28","answered":"2025-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any proactive support being provided in 2025-26 to support unemployed people over the age of 50 into employment.","answerText":"I am committed to helping people into meaningful employment, including those aged 50+. My Department’s highly successful JobStart 50+ pilot scheme has supported 52% of participants to gain permanent employment by the end of their time on the scheme. Unfortunately, budget for this Treasury funded pilot programme has not been recurrent in 2025-26.\n\nI am in the process of agreeing my Department’s 2025-26 Budget allocations. In allocating my Budget, one of my priorities is employment support, to help people of all ages to overcome barriers faced in moving into, retaining and progressing in employment.\n\nMy Budget allocation plans will be announced in the coming weeks.","answerHtml":"I am committed to helping people into meaningful employment, including those aged 50+. My Department’s highly successful JobStart 50+ pilot scheme has supported 52% of participants to gain permanent employment by the end of their time on the scheme. Unfortunately, budget for this Treasury funded pilot programme has not been recurrent in 2025-26.
I am in the process of agreeing my Department’s 2025-26 Budget allocations. In allocating my Budget, one of my priorities is employment support, to help people of all ages to overcome barriers faced in moving into, retaining and progressing in employment.
My Budget allocation plans will be announced in the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025906%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436379","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436379"}},{"id":"435967","reference":"AQW 25741/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-07","answerBy":"2025-04-24","answered":"2025-04-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission whether the Assembly Pension Trustees will circulate an updated pension statement to all Members, outlining any changes to individual pensions as a result of the US trade tariffs announced by President Trump and subsequent market fluctuations on pension investments.","answerText":"As set out in the Assembly Commission’s response to AQW 11190/22-27, the annual pension benefit statements for Members are a matter for the Trustees of the Assembly Members’ Pension Scheme.\n\nHowever, the Assembly Commission is aware that the 2024-25 annual benefit statements were discussed by the Trustees at their meeting on 2 April 2025, and work has already commenced on collating the information for this year’s exercise. The Trustees will issue the annual statements in due course.\n\nRegarding the impact on accrued pension benefits due to the uncertainty in global markets, this is also matter for the Trustees. However, it may be helpful to note that the Assembly Members’ Pension Scheme is a Career Average Revalued Earnings, defined benefit scheme, where benefits accrue at a fixed percentage, currently 2%, of annual earnings. Accrued benefits are then revalued each year in line with inflation (CPI). The pension benefits payable on retirement, are therefore not dependent on the level of contributions made by a Member, or the final size of the pension pot.","answerHtml":"As set out in the Assembly Commission’s response to AQW 11190/22-27, the annual pension benefit statements for Members are a matter for the Trustees of the Assembly Members’ Pension Scheme.
However, the Assembly Commission is aware that the 2024-25 annual benefit statements were discussed by the Trustees at their meeting on 2 April 2025, and work has already commenced on collating the information for this year’s exercise. The Trustees will issue the annual statements in due course.
Regarding the impact on accrued pension benefits due to the uncertainty in global markets, this is also matter for the Trustees. However, it may be helpful to note that the Assembly Members’ Pension Scheme is a Career Average Revalued Earnings, defined benefit scheme, where benefits accrue at a fixed percentage, currently 2%, of annual earnings. Accrued benefits are then revalued each year in line with inflation (CPI). The pension benefits payable on retirement, are therefore not dependent on the level of contributions made by a Member, or the final size of the pension pot.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025741%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435967","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435967"}},{"id":"435966","reference":"AQW 25740/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-07","answerBy":"2025-04-24","answered":"2025-04-30","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 detail (i) the number of students undertaking sign language courses in (a) Queen's University Belfast; and (b) Ulster University; (ii) how many teaching hours are provided; and (iii) the curriculum content for each.","answerText":"In the current academic year 2024/2025 there are currently a total of 160 student registrations on Sign Language Courses in the Language Centre at Queen's University.\n\nThe teaching hours for each course are:\n\nLevel 1 Award in British Sign Language\n\nBSL 101 - 20 hours of in-person teaching\n\nBSL 102 - 22 hours of in-person teaching\n\nBSL 103 - 22 hours of in-person teaching\n\nLevel 2 Certificate in British Sign LanguageBSL 201 - 30 hours of in-person teaching\n\nBSL 202 - 35 hours of in-person teaching\n\nBSL 203 - 35 hours of in-person teaching\n\nCurrently, all sign language courses in The Language Centre are linked to the examining body 'Signature's' course outline, with Signature accrediting the exams at the end of each level of the course. The curriculum content can be found at:\n\nhttps://www.signature.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/BSL1-2023.pdf\n\nhttps://www.signature.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/BSL2-2023-1.pdf\n\nAt present Ulster University does not have any sign language courses.","answerHtml":"In the current academic year 2024/2025 there are currently a total of 160 student registrations on Sign Language Courses in the Language Centre at Queen's University.
The teaching hours for each course are:
Level 1 Award in British Sign Language
BSL 101 - 20 hours of in-person teaching
BSL 102 - 22 hours of in-person teaching
BSL 103 - 22 hours of in-person teaching
Level 2 Certificate in British Sign LanguageBSL 201 - 30 hours of in-person teaching
BSL 202 - 35 hours of in-person teaching
BSL 203 - 35 hours of in-person teaching
Currently, all sign language courses in The Language Centre are linked to the examining body 'Signature's' course outline, with Signature accrediting the exams at the end of each level of the course. The curriculum content can be found at:
https://www.signature.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/BSL1-2023.pdf
https://www.signature.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/BSL2-2023-1.pdf
At present Ulster University does not have any sign language courses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025740%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435966","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435966"}},{"id":"435965","reference":"AQW 25739/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-07","answerBy":"2025-04-24","answered":"2025-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to confirm the process to introduce Sign Language to the key stage two curriculum.","answerText":"Within the statutory requirements there are a range of opportunities for schools to include Sign Language within their curriculum provision.\n\nThe Area of Learning ‘Language and Literacy’ places the value on the ways in which learning another language such as sign language can improve children’s communication and literacy skills and can help them to develop cultural understanding, which is one of the key elements that underpin the Northern Ireland Curriculum objectives.\n\nSchools can currently choose to teach Makaton, British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language. They have the opportunity to access resources and support from organisations including the National Deaf Children’s Organisation and Action Deaf Youth. Additionally, schools can use their delegated budget to engage the services of any organisation for delivery purposes.\n\nMy Department recognises the importance of British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) in fostering inclusivity and accessibility within our education system. A Sign Language Bill was introduced to the Northern Ireland Assembly on 10 February 2025, fulfilling a commitment in the Executive’s New Decade, New Approach agreement. My officials will want to consider the impact and operational practicalities of the proposals, including the impact on the curriculum.\n\nI will continue to evaluate the role of sign language in supporting communication and accessibility for all learners. It should be noted that any changes to the statutory curriculum would require legislative amendment to the Curriculum Minimum Content Order, which would require consultation and engagement with relevant stakeholders.\n\nFurthermore, I expect to receive a report in the coming weeks on the curriculum review, following which I will reflect on any recommendations therein.","answerHtml":"Within the statutory requirements there are a range of opportunities for schools to include Sign Language within their curriculum provision.
The Area of Learning ‘Language and Literacy’ places the value on the ways in which learning another language such as sign language can improve children’s communication and literacy skills and can help them to develop cultural understanding, which is one of the key elements that underpin the Northern Ireland Curriculum objectives.
Schools can currently choose to teach Makaton, British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language. They have the opportunity to access resources and support from organisations including the National Deaf Children’s Organisation and Action Deaf Youth. Additionally, schools can use their delegated budget to engage the services of any organisation for delivery purposes.
My Department recognises the importance of British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) in fostering inclusivity and accessibility within our education system. A Sign Language Bill was introduced to the Northern Ireland Assembly on 10 February 2025, fulfilling a commitment in the Executive’s New Decade, New Approach agreement. My officials will want to consider the impact and operational practicalities of the proposals, including the impact on the curriculum.
I will continue to evaluate the role of sign language in supporting communication and accessibility for all learners. It should be noted that any changes to the statutory curriculum would require legislative amendment to the Curriculum Minimum Content Order, which would require consultation and engagement with relevant stakeholders.
Furthermore, I expect to receive a report in the coming weeks on the curriculum review, following which I will reflect on any recommendations therein.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025739%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435965","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435965"}},{"id":"435964","reference":"AQW 25738/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-07","answerBy":"2025-04-24","answered":"2025-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities why his decision to announce the funding for groups to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence was made in the media rather than in the Assembly Chamber under Standing Order 18A or Standing Order 18B.","answerText":"During Question Time on 31 March 2025, I indicated that I was continuing to explore opportunities within my Department to support organisations participating in the semiquincentennial commemorations, and that I intended to make further announcements in the near future. The announcement was made during a meeting of the US/NI Cultural Working Group.","answerHtml":"During Question Time on 31 March 2025, I indicated that I was continuing to explore opportunities within my Department to support organisations participating in the semiquincentennial commemorations, and that I intended to make further announcements in the near future. The announcement was made during a meeting of the US/NI Cultural Working Group.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025738%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435964","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435964"}},{"id":"435963","reference":"AQW 25737/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-07","answerBy":"2025-04-24","answered":"2025-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide a breakdown of how many social homes will start in 2025-26 following the budget announcement, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The Executive agreed its final Budget 2025-26 on 3 April. I am currently prioritising the capital allocation for my Department and will provide an allocation for the Social Housing Development Programme.\n\nIt will then be for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, as commissioning body for the Social Housing Development Programme, to confirm the location and amount of starts that can be achieved this year with the available budget.","answerHtml":"The Executive agreed its final Budget 2025-26 on 3 April. I am currently prioritising the capital allocation for my Department and will provide an allocation for the Social Housing Development Programme.
It will then be for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, as commissioning body for the Social Housing Development Programme, to confirm the location and amount of starts that can be achieved this year with the available budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025737%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435963","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435963"}},{"id":"435205","reference":"AQW 25453/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-01","answerBy":"2025-04-16","answered":"2025-06-06","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 to detail any engagement they have proactively taken to examine the work done by Civic Initiative, specifically in relation to its proof of concept of a Citizens' Assembly.","answerText":"We recognise and fully support, the role that civic society plays in supporting policy making, through co-design and co-production approaches.\n\nMinisters have recently written to Executive colleagues to seek their views on the proposed reestablishment of the Civic Forum which would complement the growing direct involvement of stakeholders in co-design in policy formulation.","answerHtml":"We recognise and fully support, the role that civic society plays in supporting policy making, through co-design and co-production approaches.
Ministers have recently written to Executive colleagues to seek their views on the proposed reestablishment of the Civic Forum which would complement the growing direct involvement of stakeholders in co-design in policy formulation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025453%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435205","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435205"}},{"id":"435204","reference":"AQW 25452/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-01","answerBy":"2025-04-16","answered":"2025-05-20","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 to detail any progress made to develop and deliver a Citizens' Assembly process, as committed to in New Decade, New Approach.","answerText":"We recognise and fully support, the role that civic society plays in supporting policy making, through co-design and co-production approaches.\n\nMinisters have recently written to Executive colleagues to seek their views on the proposed reestablishment of the Civic Forum on a compact, flexible and agile basis, which would complement the growing direct involvement of stakeholders in co-design in policy formulation.","answerHtml":"We recognise and fully support, the role that civic society plays in supporting policy making, through co-design and co-production approaches.
Ministers have recently written to Executive colleagues to seek their views on the proposed reestablishment of the Civic Forum on a compact, flexible and agile basis, which would complement the growing direct involvement of stakeholders in co-design in policy formulation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025452%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435204","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435204"}},{"id":"435203","reference":"AQW 25451/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-01","answerBy":"2025-04-16","answered":"2025-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many of the 600 homes being purchased by the Housing Executive are former Housing Executive homes previously sold under the House Sales Scheme.","answerText":"I refer the member to the answer provided to AQW 25142/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the member to the answer provided to AQW 25142/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025451%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435203","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435203"}},{"id":"435202","reference":"AQW 25450/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-01","answerBy":"2025-04-16","answered":"2025-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the report resulting from the consultation on Gender Pay Gap, which closed in February 2025, will be published.","answerText":"My officials are analysing the responses to the public consultation on Gender Pay Gap Reporting regulations and they will then present the findings to me. My Department’s response to the consultation will be published over the coming months.","answerHtml":"My officials are analysing the responses to the public consultation on Gender Pay Gap Reporting regulations and they will then present the findings to me. My Department’s response to the consultation will be published over the coming months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025450%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435202","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435202"}},{"id":"435201","reference":"AQW 25449/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-01","answerBy":"2025-04-16","answered":"2025-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the revised code of practice on obtaining information under the Social Security Administration Act 1992 will be published","answerText":"The revised Code of Practice will be laid before the Assembly by 30 April 2025.","answerHtml":"The revised Code of Practice will be laid before the Assembly by 30 April 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025449%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435201","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435201"}},{"id":"433338","reference":"AQW 24721/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-20","answerBy":"2025-04-04","answered":"2025-04-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will ensure a purpose built student accommodation regulation will be included in the development of private rented sector regulations to protect tenants, including enabling students to end a contract by giving one months' notice and to require building owners or a management company to provide at least 24-hour notice before entering rooms.","answerText":"My Department does not regulate purpose-built student accommodation. The Department for Economy has responsibility for higher education policy in relation to teaching and research, university managed student accommodation including halls of residence and purpose-built student accommodation.\n\nAs this is outside the scope of private rented sector regulations, I will not be including the suggestions put forward.","answerHtml":"My Department does not regulate purpose-built student accommodation. The Department for Economy has responsibility for higher education policy in relation to teaching and research, university managed student accommodation including halls of residence and purpose-built student accommodation.
As this is outside the scope of private rented sector regulations, I will not be including the suggestions put forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024721%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433338","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433338"}},{"id":"433337","reference":"AQW 24720/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-20","answerBy":"2025-04-04","answered":"2025-03-31","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 any review of the Student Maintenance Grant has taken place to align it with the living wage to help students to meet the increasing cost of living in Northern Ireland, such as rent.","answerText":"I understand the financial pressures that students face and am pleased that in January my predecessor announced a 20% uplift in maintenance loan support for full-time undergraduates for the coming academic year.\n\nThe review of higher education funding is due to commence in the coming months and will consider, among other issues, the financial support available to students including the maintenance grant.","answerHtml":"I understand the financial pressures that students face and am pleased that in January my predecessor announced a 20% uplift in maintenance loan support for full-time undergraduates for the coming academic year.
The review of higher education funding is due to commence in the coming months and will consider, among other issues, the financial support available to students including the maintenance grant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024720%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433337","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433337"}},{"id":"432564","reference":"AQW 24391/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-13","answerBy":"2025-03-31","answered":"2025-06-26","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 to detail (i) why the funding mechanism for Foras na Gaelige, stemming from an agreement decided at North South Ministerial Council, has not yet appeared on the agenda for the Executive; and (ii) for their assessment of evidence provided to the Committee for Communities at its meeting on 13 March 2025 that the funding mechanism has been blocked six times from being discussed at the Executive.","answerText":"While there is no paper in circulation which refers specifically to the Foras na Gaeilge funding model, this matter is part of a wider range of issues concerning the funding mechanisms for North South bodies. The recommendations which have been made to the Executive, following a discussion at NSMC to explore, remain under consideration","answerHtml":"While there is no paper in circulation which refers specifically to the Foras na Gaeilge funding model, this matter is part of a wider range of issues concerning the funding mechanisms for North South bodies. The recommendations which have been made to the Executive, following a discussion at NSMC to explore, remain under consideration
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024391%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432564","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432564"}},{"id":"432563","reference":"AQW 24390/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-13","answerBy":"2025-03-31","answered":"2025-04-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to provide a copy of the processes and procedures used by his Department with third parties involved in co-designing and co-producing policy; (ii) to detail any mechanisms in place to measure (a) the effectiveness of the co-design and co-production process; and (b) feedback from organisations, bodies and individuals who have worked with his Department, for example on any of the social strategies or the Irish Language Strategy.","answerText":"There is no central Departmental policy and procedure for policy areas and projects involved in co-design and each will have their own, tailored to their specific requirements. Similarly, each area will have their own review and feedback mechanisms in place – for example the Dept of Finance’s Business Consultancy Services (BCS) was commissioned to undertake a review of the Social Inclusion co-design process. A copy of the BCS Review will be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"There is no central Departmental policy and procedure for policy areas and projects involved in co-design and each will have their own, tailored to their specific requirements. Similarly, each area will have their own review and feedback mechanisms in place – for example the Dept of Finance’s Business Consultancy Services (BCS) was commissioned to undertake a review of the Social Inclusion co-design process. A copy of the BCS Review will be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024390%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432563","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432563"}},{"id":"432562","reference":"AQW 24389/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-13","answerBy":"2025-03-31","answered":"2025-04-17","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 to detail the amount their Department has been spent on (i) solicitors' fees; and (ii) court costs in relation to legal challenges on the Irish Language Strategy in the last ten years.","answerText":"The amount spent by the Executive Office in the last ten years on legal challenges in relation to the Irish Language Strategy is set out in the table below. It is not possible to disaggregate solicitors’ fees and court costs incurred by the department. Figures have been rounded to the nearest pound and are net of VAT.\n\nFinancial Year\n2016/2017\t£3,470\n2017/2018\t£44,474\n2018/2019\t£147\n2021/2022\t£2,456\n2022/2023\t£38,262\nTOTAL\t£88,809","answerHtml":"The amount spent by the Executive Office in the last ten years on legal challenges in relation to the Irish Language Strategy is set out in the table below. It is not possible to disaggregate solicitors’ fees and court costs incurred by the department. Figures have been rounded to the nearest pound and are net of VAT.
| Financial Year | |
| 2016/2017 | £3,470 |
| 2017/2018 | £44,474 |
| 2018/2019 | £147 |
| 2021/2022 | £2,456 |
| 2022/2023 | £38,262 |
| TOTAL | £88,809 |
My department is fully committed to working across government and playing its part in supporting the development of long-term sustainable energy solutions that support the delivery of Climate Change targets and growing our green economy. The Path to Net Zero Energy provides the policy framework to decarbonise energy and to mobilise the skills, technologies and behaviours required to transition our economy to net zero. The recent consultation on support for low carbon heat in residential buildings will ultimately seek to introduce a support scheme like those operating in Britain and south of Ireland. As part of this policy development process officials from my department worked with Department for Infrastructure colleagues to amend permitted development rights for domestic heat pumps with changes coming into effect from July 2023. This policy initiative aims to stimulate the heat pump sector which remains in its infancy. The development of skills and support for investment in the low carbon heating sector will be one component to help feed into the delivery of the Housing Supply Strategy however other policy initiatives will be required to drive change in how we build new private and social homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024388%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432561","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432561"}},{"id":"432560","reference":"AQW 24387/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-13","answerBy":"2025-03-31","answered":"2025-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for a timeline confirming the progress of the support for low carbon heat in the residential sector consultation; and (ii) when her Department's report will be published.","answerText":"My department consulted on future support of low carbon technologies in residential properties, which closed 10th January 2025. The views provided will support my department in the development of policy to inform options regarding the design, rules, and guidance of future support for low carbon heat. Officials are currently analysing the responses provided and my department plans to communicate a feedback report on the consultation through the department's website and social media platforms this summer. Any support scheme to emerge from the consultation would fall under the usual due diligence of government policy making. This is a multi-stage process of which this public consultation is an initial step.","answerHtml":"My department consulted on future support of low carbon technologies in residential properties, which closed 10th January 2025. The views provided will support my department in the development of policy to inform options regarding the design, rules, and guidance of future support for low carbon heat. Officials are currently analysing the responses provided and my department plans to communicate a feedback report on the consultation through the department's website and social media platforms this summer. Any support scheme to emerge from the consultation would fall under the usual due diligence of government policy making. This is a multi-stage process of which this public consultation is an initial step.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024387%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432560","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432560"}},{"id":"432605","reference":"AQO 1737/22-27","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 to outline any progress that has been made to replace Section 10b permits for community transport operators with permits similar to Section 19 and Section 22 of the Transport Act 1985.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"There are no plans to replace the section10B permit for community transport operators with section 19 and section 22 permits, which are used in Britain. However, my officials are reviewing the operation of the section 10B permit scheme as part of the overall review of community transport."},{"speaker":"Ms K Armstrong","text":"Thank you, Minister. Introducing section 19 and 22 permits would allow community transport to address the lack of transport in rural areas and increase the amount of accessible transport in rural areas. What is the barrier to bringing forward legislation that is used in the rest of the UK?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"I am not aware of specific barriers, but we are developing broader transport plans that will feed into that issue. I am happy to look at that in more detail for the Member to understand where the challenges are. It is my understanding that the 10B permit is being reviewed, but I can look at section 19 permits in more detail."},{"speaker":"Miss Brogan","text":"Will the Minister outline the next steps in the review of community transport?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"At the conclusion of the review, officials will provide me with a final report of their findings and recommendations. At that stage, we will know better the next steps and share them with Members."},{"speaker":"Ms McLaughlin","text":"Minister, what engagement have you had with the First Minister and deputy First Minister in the past year on the delivery of an infrastructure commission?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"I have had no specific engagement with the Executive Office on that, but I hope to have such engagement in the coming weeks and months."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201737%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432605","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-03-24&docID=433026#AQO%201737/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432605"}},{"id":"432370","reference":"AQW 24297/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-12","answerBy":"2025-03-28","answered":"2025-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail when welfare mitigations will be reviewed to consider if the existing mitigations are meeting needs or if there are any gaps in support.","answerText":"The Executive agreed, on 5 December 2024, to extend the existing mitigations schemes for another 3 years.\n\nThere is no current timetable for a further review of mitigations.\n\nIt will be for the Executive to decide on any future mitigation package of new measures and to consider the allocation of the additional funding such a package might require.","answerHtml":"The Executive agreed, on 5 December 2024, to extend the existing mitigations schemes for another 3 years.
There is no current timetable for a further review of mitigations.
It will be for the Executive to decide on any future mitigation package of new measures and to consider the allocation of the additional funding such a package might require.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024297%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432370","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432370"}},{"id":"432369","reference":"AQW 24296/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-12","answerBy":"2025-03-28","answered":"2025-04-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any cross-departmental actions that have been agreed with each Department, though the Housing Supply Strategy, to reduce the future cost to mitigate the Social Sector Size Criteria.","answerText":"Following publication of the Executive Housing Supply Strategy in December, cross-Departmental structures have been established to begin work on the first short term Executive Action Plan.\n\nThis work will consider the range of actions to be prioritised over the next few years to address the whole system issues impacting on housing supply.","answerHtml":"Following publication of the Executive Housing Supply Strategy in December, cross-Departmental structures have been established to begin work on the first short term Executive Action Plan.
This work will consider the range of actions to be prioritised over the next few years to address the whole system issues impacting on housing supply.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024296%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432369","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432369"}},{"id":"432368","reference":"AQW 24295/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-12","answerBy":"2025-03-28","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether the proposed parking fines by each Health and Social Care Trust will be included in Penalty Charge Notice or Private Parking Charges legislation.","answerText":"Whilst my Department is responsible for on-street parking enforcement across the north, it has no responsibility for the operation and management of private car parks, including those at Health and Social Care Trust sites, nor the enforcement companies that operate within them.","answerHtml":"Whilst my Department is responsible for on-street parking enforcement across the north, it has no responsibility for the operation and management of private car parks, including those at Health and Social Care Trust sites, nor the enforcement companies that operate within them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024295%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432368","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432368"}},{"id":"432367","reference":"AQW 24294/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-12","answerBy":"2025-03-28","answered":"2025-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will introduce legislation, similar to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill going through Westminster, to remove the barriers to development that is limiting housebuilding in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I am committed to ensuring that the planning system in the North operates in an efficient and effective way. My department has been working collectively with local government, who are responsible for over 99% of all local and major planning applications, and other stakeholders to improve the planning system through the Planning Improvement Programme.\n\nThe programme has already delivered positive changes including targeted updates to legislation to enable council planning authorities to introduce statutory validation checklists to improve the quality of planning applications entering the system, and in turn reduce the potential for delay through the application process. My department is also conducting a review of the Planning (Development Management) Regulations (NI) 2015 to enable the planning application process to be further streamlined. Ongoing work with statutory consultees has already resulted in performance improvements and this engagement will continue.\n\nMy officials are currently engaging with individual council planning authorities and other key stakeholders in the planning system with a specific focus on identifying challenges in current development management (planning application process) practice and procedures, as well as individual performance related matters, to inform further opportunities for efficiencies and improvements to the system.\n\nMy officials will engage with officials in the British Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government regarding this Bill and any potential learnings.","answerHtml":"I am committed to ensuring that the planning system in the North operates in an efficient and effective way. My department has been working collectively with local government, who are responsible for over 99% of all local and major planning applications, and other stakeholders to improve the planning system through the Planning Improvement Programme.
The programme has already delivered positive changes including targeted updates to legislation to enable council planning authorities to introduce statutory validation checklists to improve the quality of planning applications entering the system, and in turn reduce the potential for delay through the application process. My department is also conducting a review of the Planning (Development Management) Regulations (NI) 2015 to enable the planning application process to be further streamlined. Ongoing work with statutory consultees has already resulted in performance improvements and this engagement will continue.
My officials are currently engaging with individual council planning authorities and other key stakeholders in the planning system with a specific focus on identifying challenges in current development management (planning application process) practice and procedures, as well as individual performance related matters, to inform further opportunities for efficiencies and improvements to the system.
My officials will engage with officials in the British Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government regarding this Bill and any potential learnings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024294%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432367","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432367"}},{"id":"432366","reference":"AQW 24293/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-12","answerBy":"2025-03-28","answered":"2025-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 23336/22-27, to detail how her response complies with the Executive's concordat with the Community and Voluntary Sector to deliver effective partnership working and delivery of volunteering opportunities.","answerText":"The licensing arrangements for drivers of not-for-profit community transport providers are a legal requirement in support of road safety. They are not altered by the Executive’s concordat with the Community and Voluntary sector to deliver effective partnership working and delivery of volunteering opportunities.","answerHtml":"The licensing arrangements for drivers of not-for-profit community transport providers are a legal requirement in support of road safety. They are not altered by the Executive’s concordat with the Community and Voluntary sector to deliver effective partnership working and delivery of volunteering opportunities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024293%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432366","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432366"}},{"id":"432124","reference":"AQW 24194/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-11","answerBy":"2025-03-27","answered":"2025-03-31","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 to detail (i) who is responsible for the delivery of strategies that are published as an Executive Strategy; and (ii) how the Executive Committee plans to ensure openness and transparency across all Departments to ensure an Executive Strategy is delivered.","answerText":"Executive Strategies are developed by a lead minister, in consultation with other relevant Ministers, and brought to the Executive Committee for approval.","answerHtml":"Executive Strategies are developed by a lead minister, in consultation with other relevant Ministers, and brought to the Executive Committee for approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024194%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432124","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432124"}},{"id":"432123","reference":"AQW 24193/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-11","answerBy":"2025-03-27","answered":"2025-03-26","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 adults registered for NHS dentistry in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The number of adult registrations at 31st December 2024, the most recent publicly available statistics, is outlined in the table below:\n\nYear (as at 31 Dec)\tNo. of Adults Registered\n2024\t832,194\n\nSource: Business Services Organisation, Information and Analysis Directorate, Department of Health (provided by L Baird – 14 March 2025)\n\nInformation on the number registered for Health Service dentistry in Northern Ireland by age group is routinely published on a quarterly basis in our Accredited Official Statistics publication: FPS General Dental Services Statistics Quarterly Update.\n\nhttps://bso.hscni.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/dental_quarterly_tables_q3_24-25_published.xlsx","answerHtml":"The number of adult registrations at 31st December 2024, the most recent publicly available statistics, is outlined in the table below:
| Year (as at 31 Dec) | No. of Adults Registered |
| 2024 | 832,194 |
Source: Business Services Organisation, Information and Analysis Directorate, Department of Health (provided by L Baird – 14 March 2025)
Information on the number registered for Health Service dentistry in Northern Ireland by age group is routinely published on a quarterly basis in our Accredited Official Statistics publication: FPS General Dental Services Statistics Quarterly Update.
https://bso.hscni.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/dental_quarterly_tables_q3_24-25_published.xlsx
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024193%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432123"}},{"id":"432122","reference":"AQW 24192/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-11","answerBy":"2025-03-27","answered":"2025-04-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to an answer provided during the Urgent Oral Question on 10 March 2025, to provide a list of the dates he raised the anti-poverty strategy at the Executive.","answerText":"I wrote to Executive Colleagues on 24 September 2024 and 17 December 2024.\n\nMy department does not retain records of occasions the strategy may have been discussed under AOB.","answerHtml":"I wrote to Executive Colleagues on 24 September 2024 and 17 December 2024.
My department does not retain records of occasions the strategy may have been discussed under AOB.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024192%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432122"}},{"id":"432121","reference":"AQW 24191/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-11","answerBy":"2025-03-27","answered":"2025-04-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how he will report and update the Committee for Communities on the delivery of future social strategies, including the anti-poverty strategy, specifically on the areas that are being delivered by other Executive Departments.","answerText":"Each of the Social Inclusion Strategies will include reporting and monitoring mechanisms as appropriate, however these mechanisms will be a matter for the Executive to approve.","answerHtml":"Each of the Social Inclusion Strategies will include reporting and monitoring mechanisms as appropriate, however these mechanisms will be a matter for the Executive to approve.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024191%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432121"}},{"id":"432120","reference":"AQW 24190/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-11","answerBy":"2025-03-27","answered":"2025-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how toileting across the health service will be inclusive if single sex-only provision is maintained in hospitals and other facilities, given that most carers have to help the person they care for, who may be of the opposite sex, with toileting needs especially when attending health appointments.","answerText":"All HSC Trusts provide accessible toilets across its facilities and these are gender neutral. They facilitate access for disabled people (both visible and invisible), those with long term conditions or those who require support from a carer (regardless of their sex).","answerHtml":"All HSC Trusts provide accessible toilets across its facilities and these are gender neutral. They facilitate access for disabled people (both visible and invisible), those with long term conditions or those who require support from a carer (regardless of their sex).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024190%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432120"}},{"id":"430626","reference":"AQW 23689/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-03","answerBy":"2025-03-19","answered":"2025-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) how he will ensure the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) is able to meet the needs of tenants with disabilities, given the 2025-26 Draft Budget does not include a capital allocation for disability adaptations for NIHE homes; (ii) whether he will commit to carrying out an equality impact assessment with NIHE to understand the impact to tenants of failing to provide disabled adaptations; (iii) how many homes are known to need disabled adaptations, broken down by local council area; and (iv) any proposals the NIHE have provided to fund disabled adaptations to their own properties from within their own budget.","answerText":"Work is ongoing on options to live within the proposed 2025-26 Budget outcome and the impacts of doing so. As part of this work, an internal exercise to refresh the Department’s forecast 2025-26 requirements has been completed. The information gathered from this exercise will inform my decisions on how the proposed budget should be allocated within the Department.\n\nDepartments are expected to conduct their own equality screenings and (where necessary) EQIA consultations, based on the outcome of the draft Budget. Work has begun to assess the impact of my Department’s proposed allocations and fulfil all necessary equality obligations.\n\nPoints (iii) and (iv) are operational matters for the Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“Major Adaptations only - There are 359nr of MAPD’s (Major Adaptations For Persons With A Disability) awaiting starts broken down by council (Pre-Site). This includes schemes at Project Inception, Briefing and Commissioning, Awaiting Statutory Approvals, Pre-site initiation, Pending Procurement, Tender evaluation, On hold, and OT Referral Stage. There are currently 51 on site being delivered.\n\nMinor Adaptations only - There are currently 739 minor adaptions which are live jobs with our Contractors to undertake works. These are broken down by Council Area below.\n\nCouncil\tMajor Adaptation Total\tMinor Adaptation Total\nBelfast\t74\t197\nDerry City and Strabane\t58\t106\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t46\t178\nArds and North Down\t38\t25\nNewry Mourne and Down\t34\t42\nArmagh City Banbridge and Craigavon\t28\t33\nLisburn and Castlereagh\t24\t46\nMid and East Antrim\t23\t40\nMid Ulster\t13\t25\nFermanagh and Omagh\t11\t26\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t10\t21\nGrand total\t359\t739\n\nHistorically the NIHE adaptation programme has been funded by virtue of DfC returning funding generated from NIHE house and land sales back to the NIHE. However, due to DFC funding pressures in the current financial year, this has not happened. Accordingly, the NIHE funded the adaptations programme from rental income receipts in those years. In the event that DfC is again unable to fund the adaptations programme in 2025/26 (as yet unknown), then NIHE could again consider funding this from rental income receipts. In this eventuality, it is possible that investment in the 2025/26 adaptations programme may have to be scaled back (in the wider context of the NIHE Landlord having insufficient financial capacity to meet medium term priority stock investment requirements, as highlighted as part of the NIHE Revitalisation review).”","answerHtml":"Work is ongoing on options to live within the proposed 2025-26 Budget outcome and the impacts of doing so. As part of this work, an internal exercise to refresh the Department’s forecast 2025-26 requirements has been completed. The information gathered from this exercise will inform my decisions on how the proposed budget should be allocated within the Department.
Departments are expected to conduct their own equality screenings and (where necessary) EQIA consultations, based on the outcome of the draft Budget. Work has begun to assess the impact of my Department’s proposed allocations and fulfil all necessary equality obligations.
Points (iii) and (iv) are operational matters for the Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“Major Adaptations only - There are 359nr of MAPD’s (Major Adaptations For Persons With A Disability) awaiting starts broken down by council (Pre-Site). This includes schemes at Project Inception, Briefing and Commissioning, Awaiting Statutory Approvals, Pre-site initiation, Pending Procurement, Tender evaluation, On hold, and OT Referral Stage. There are currently 51 on site being delivered.
Minor Adaptations only - There are currently 739 minor adaptions which are live jobs with our Contractors to undertake works. These are broken down by Council Area below.
| Council | Major Adaptation Total | Minor Adaptation Total |
| Belfast | 74 | 197 |
| Derry City and Strabane | 58 | 106 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 46 | 178 |
| Ards and North Down | 38 | 25 |
| Newry Mourne and Down | 34 | 42 |
| Armagh City Banbridge and Craigavon | 28 | 33 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | 24 | 46 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 23 | 40 |
| Mid Ulster | 13 | 25 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 11 | 26 |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 10 | 21 |
| Grand total | 359 | 739 |
Historically the NIHE adaptation programme has been funded by virtue of DfC returning funding generated from NIHE house and land sales back to the NIHE. However, due to DFC funding pressures in the current financial year, this has not happened. Accordingly, the NIHE funded the adaptations programme from rental income receipts in those years. In the event that DfC is again unable to fund the adaptations programme in 2025/26 (as yet unknown), then NIHE could again consider funding this from rental income receipts. In this eventuality, it is possible that investment in the 2025/26 adaptations programme may have to be scaled back (in the wider context of the NIHE Landlord having insufficient financial capacity to meet medium term priority stock investment requirements, as highlighted as part of the NIHE Revitalisation review).”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023689%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430626","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430626"}},{"id":"430625","reference":"AQW 23688/22-27","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 of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) the source of the £11.6 million for Fresh Start Shared Education and Housing, as listed on page 27 of the 2025-26 Draft Budget; (ii) what percentage of this amount is for (a) Shared Education; and (b) Shared Housing; and (iii) why the Department has removed references to Integrated Education from the references to Fresh Start.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nThe Department of Education bid for a total of c.£59.9 million for the remaining Fresh Start Shared and Integrated Education projects in Budget 2025-26. As only £48.3 million of Treasury funding remains available, the Executive agreed to allocate the additional £11.6 million to Education from mainstream Capital DEL to meet the bid in full.\n\nThe shortened title of Fresh Start Shared Education & Housing, reflects the title used by Treasury when providing the funding. It does not preclude the funding being used for integrated education projects. Indeed, £26.7 million of the funding allocated was for integrated schools.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
The Department of Education bid for a total of c.£59.9 million for the remaining Fresh Start Shared and Integrated Education projects in Budget 2025-26. As only £48.3 million of Treasury funding remains available, the Executive agreed to allocate the additional £11.6 million to Education from mainstream Capital DEL to meet the bid in full.
The shortened title of Fresh Start Shared Education & Housing, reflects the title used by Treasury when providing the funding. It does not preclude the funding being used for integrated education projects. Indeed, £26.7 million of the funding allocated was for integrated schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023688%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430625","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430625"}},{"id":"430624","reference":"AQW 23687/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-03","answerBy":"2025-03-19","answered":"2025-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, in light of the UK Government committing to legislate to ban no fault evictions and introducing Awaab's law, to detail any actions he will take during the remainder of the 2022-2027 mandate to ensure tenants are not left behind by this legislation not being replicated in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I have no plans to introduce legislation to ban no fault evictions. As you are aware, my department is already taking forward work, as mandated by the Assembly, to increase security of tenure through the introduction of much longer notice to quit periods.\n\nAlso, my department is closely following the progress of Awaab’s law and officials are monitoring developments to consider the most appropriate approach here.","answerHtml":"I have no plans to introduce legislation to ban no fault evictions. As you are aware, my department is already taking forward work, as mandated by the Assembly, to increase security of tenure through the introduction of much longer notice to quit periods.
Also, my department is closely following the progress of Awaab’s law and officials are monitoring developments to consider the most appropriate approach here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023687%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430624","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430624"}},{"id":"430623","reference":"AQW 23686/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-03","answerBy":"2025-03-19","answered":"2025-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how the 2025-26 draft budget allocation for Resource DEL for languages of £8.5 million is intended to be spent, including a percentage breakdown of the intended spend on (i) Irish; (ii) Ulster-Scots; (iii) Sign Language; and (iv) other languages.","answerText":"All funding requirements will be considered against statutory commitments and ministerial priorities within the final budget settlement. All budget decisions will be subject to equality assessment.","answerHtml":"All funding requirements will be considered against statutory commitments and ministerial priorities within the final budget settlement. All budget decisions will be subject to equality assessment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023686%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430623","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430623"}},{"id":"430622","reference":"AQW 23685/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-03","answerBy":"2025-03-19","answered":"2025-04-02","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 progress of reform of the Housing Executive, including plans to split the landlord function away from the policy setting and decision-making authority function.","answerText":"I am continuing to actively push and prioritise a solution on NIHE Revitalisation. The Department of Finance leads on engagement with His Majesty’s Treasury on this matter and I understand it is currently under consideration by HMT officials.\n\nThis engagement reflects a preference for minimal change to the status of the NIHE and which may not require any further structural reclassification, split or separation of the Landlord and Strategic Housing Authority functions.","answerHtml":"I am continuing to actively push and prioritise a solution on NIHE Revitalisation. The Department of Finance leads on engagement with His Majesty’s Treasury on this matter and I understand it is currently under consideration by HMT officials.
This engagement reflects a preference for minimal change to the status of the NIHE and which may not require any further structural reclassification, split or separation of the Landlord and Strategic Housing Authority functions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023685%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430622","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430622"}},{"id":"429932","reference":"AQW 23336/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-25","answerBy":"2025-03-12","answered":"2025-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any actions she is taking to replicate the driver licensing requirements used in Great Britain for drivers of not-for-profit community transport providers, rather than the need for full commercial driver licenses.","answerText":"My officials have previously engaged with the sector on this issue. At this point in time, I have no plans to change the current licensing requirements for drivers of not-for-profit community transport providers.","answerHtml":"My officials have previously engaged with the sector on this issue. At this point in time, I have no plans to change the current licensing requirements for drivers of not-for-profit community transport providers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023336%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429932","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429932"}},{"id":"429931","reference":"AQW 23335/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-25","answerBy":"2025-03-12","answered":"2025-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) how her Department is reviewing the community transport sector when she only funds a small number of community transport operators; and (ii) what investigation has been carried out on those organisations operating under a Section 10B permit, but do not receive any funding from the Rural Transport Fund or Transport Programme for People with Disabilities.","answerText":"My Department is currently undertaking a phased review of community transport. The review will only consider the community transport operators and schemes funded by my Department and does not extend to the wider community transport sector across the North of Ireland.\n\nThe Department is also reviewing the operation of the Section 10B permits scheme. The Section 10B permits review will examine the efficiency and effectiveness of the permits scheme across the community transport sector, including both funded and non-funded organisations.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently undertaking a phased review of community transport. The review will only consider the community transport operators and schemes funded by my Department and does not extend to the wider community transport sector across the North of Ireland.
The Department is also reviewing the operation of the Section 10B permits scheme. The Section 10B permits review will examine the efficiency and effectiveness of the permits scheme across the community transport sector, including both funded and non-funded organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023335%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429931","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429931"}},{"id":"429930","reference":"AQW 23334/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-25","answerBy":"2025-03-12","answered":"2025-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will review the barriers to healthcare experienced by people who are homeless, including the requirement for photographic identification by GPs when, in many cases, identification can only be provided to a person with an address.","answerText":"My Department is committed to understanding and responding to the healthcare needs of those who are homeless in Northern Ireland and the barriers they face. In January 2025 the Public Health Agency (PHA) initiated a procurement for a contractor to undertake the initial stage of a Homeless Health Needs Assessment across Northern Ireland to ultimately determine strategic priorities for the medium and long term.\n\nUnfortunately, no contractors submitted a bid for this work; however, to ensure that some progress is made, PHA has commenced a more limited exercise to ascertain a Health Needs Assessment from the perspective of service providers and that report is expected to be completed by September 2025.\n\nOfficials from my Department are also involved in the Department for Communities (DfC) led work on the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan (IDHAP) which addresses gaps in non-accommodation services including local enhanced general practitioner services.\n\nOne of the actions within the IDHAP relates to the Belfast Inclusion Health Service implementation of the three-year service delivery plan focusing on specific areas of Health and Social Care needs and taking into account the future strategic direction of homelessness and health, including the NICE Guidelines 2022 for integrated health and social care for people experiencing homelessness.\n\nA further development in this area is the Complex Lives initiative established by the PHA, Belfast City Council, and the Housing Executive, which 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\nWith regards to the requirement for photographic identification by GPs; in the circumstances where a patient would not be in possession of photographic identification (e.g. those experiencing homelessness), the GP surgery can discuss with the patients or their representative(s) what alternative documents are available that would be acceptable. The surgery may contact the Medical Registrations team in Business Services Organisation (BSO) to seek assistance, if required.\n\nWhere the GP Practice contact BSO about a case like this, BSO would advise the Practice to make contact with the Homeless shelter as it would normally be in a position to verify the person and supply a letter to this effect.\n\nMy Department continues to review and improve access to healthcare by working alongside other key stake holders to remove barriers experienced by the homeless where possible.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to understanding and responding to the healthcare needs of those who are homeless in Northern Ireland and the barriers they face. In January 2025 the Public Health Agency (PHA) initiated a procurement for a contractor to undertake the initial stage of a Homeless Health Needs Assessment across Northern Ireland to ultimately determine strategic priorities for the medium and long term.
Unfortunately, no contractors submitted a bid for this work; however, to ensure that some progress is made, PHA has commenced a more limited exercise to ascertain a Health Needs Assessment from the perspective of service providers and that report is expected to be completed by September 2025.
Officials from my Department are also involved in the Department for Communities (DfC) led work on the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan (IDHAP) which addresses gaps in non-accommodation services including local enhanced general practitioner services.
One of the actions within the IDHAP relates to the Belfast Inclusion Health Service implementation of the three-year service delivery plan focusing on specific areas of Health and Social Care needs and taking into account the future strategic direction of homelessness and health, including the NICE Guidelines 2022 for integrated health and social care for people experiencing homelessness.
A further development in this area is the Complex Lives initiative established by the PHA, Belfast City Council, and the Housing Executive, which 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.
With regards to the requirement for photographic identification by GPs; in the circumstances where a patient would not be in possession of photographic identification (e.g. those experiencing homelessness), the GP surgery can discuss with the patients or their representative(s) what alternative documents are available that would be acceptable. The surgery may contact the Medical Registrations team in Business Services Organisation (BSO) to seek assistance, if required.
Where the GP Practice contact BSO about a case like this, BSO would advise the Practice to make contact with the Homeless shelter as it would normally be in a position to verify the person and supply a letter to this effect.
My Department continues to review and improve access to healthcare by working alongside other key stake holders to remove barriers experienced by the homeless where possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023334%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429930","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429930"}},{"id":"429929","reference":"AQW 23333/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-25","answerBy":"2025-03-12","answered":"2025-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will (i) commit to ensuring all GP services provide a professional phone line or email for health care staff to enable and improve communications about patient care; and (ii) ensure such proactive communications are built in to future GP contracts.","answerText":"GPs are independent contractors and, as such, are responsible both for making appropriate clinical decisions about patient care and for decisions about the day to day running of their Practice. This includes the use of telephony.\n\nIt is recognised that facilitating better communication and clarity of responsibility at the interface between primary and secondary care fosters strong, constructive working relationships and supports a more efficient use of staff time and medical resources, as demand for services continues to grow.\n\nMy Department has led engagement with primary and secondary care providers to help improve communication and collaborative working across the Primary and Secondary care interface.\n\nA key output of this work has been the development of the ‘Working Better Together Consensus and Guidance on the Primary and Secondary Care Interface in Northern Ireland’. The guidance, which builds upon good practice that is already in place, provides a set of clinically led principles to guide how healthcare professionals should engage with each other across new and existing patient pathways and to promote good quality, patient-centred care.\n\nThe underlying intent of the guidance is to improve relationships and communication, remove unnecessary administrative burdens and bring about a more efficient system to improve patient flow, care and experience.\n\nOne of the key principals in the guidance is to facilitate easy, prompt communication between primary and secondary care professionals, including encouraging the sharing of administrative contact directories.","answerHtml":"GPs are independent contractors and, as such, are responsible both for making appropriate clinical decisions about patient care and for decisions about the day to day running of their Practice. This includes the use of telephony.
It is recognised that facilitating better communication and clarity of responsibility at the interface between primary and secondary care fosters strong, constructive working relationships and supports a more efficient use of staff time and medical resources, as demand for services continues to grow.
My Department has led engagement with primary and secondary care providers to help improve communication and collaborative working across the Primary and Secondary care interface.
A key output of this work has been the development of the ‘Working Better Together Consensus and Guidance on the Primary and Secondary Care Interface in Northern Ireland’. The guidance, which builds upon good practice that is already in place, provides a set of clinically led principles to guide how healthcare professionals should engage with each other across new and existing patient pathways and to promote good quality, patient-centred care.
The underlying intent of the guidance is to improve relationships and communication, remove unnecessary administrative burdens and bring about a more efficient system to improve patient flow, care and experience.
One of the key principals in the guidance is to facilitate easy, prompt communication between primary and secondary care professionals, including encouraging the sharing of administrative contact directories.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023333%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429929","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429929"}},{"id":"429928","reference":"AQW 23332/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-25","answerBy":"2025-03-12","answered":"2025-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when the Inclusion Health Service will have a permanent location in Belfast.","answerText":"I recognise the important work that Inclusion Health Service offers to those individuals who are homeless and who need access to timely health and social care provision. It is vitally important that the new permanent location is safe for both those accessing and delivering services.\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust has been actively looking for suitable permanent premises. This work has involved engagement with a range of key stakeholders including the Belfast City Council, Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Community and Voluntary groups and Land and Property Services, as well as with staff and service users of the Inclusion Health Service to get their input on the optimum location for the service.\n\nThe Trust has also been actively viewing a number of properties and recently one has been identified as potentially being suitable. Trust representatives are currently engaging with the relevant landlord to discuss potential lease of the property, including any specific refurbishment work that would need to be completed before this could be agreed.\n\nGiven these talks are currently ongoing I am not yet in a position to provide the member with a definitive timescale for when the Inclusion Health Service will be relocated to a new centre but I can assure you this will be done as soon as practicable.","answerHtml":"I recognise the important work that Inclusion Health Service offers to those individuals who are homeless and who need access to timely health and social care provision. It is vitally important that the new permanent location is safe for both those accessing and delivering services.
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust has been actively looking for suitable permanent premises. This work has involved engagement with a range of key stakeholders including the Belfast City Council, Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Community and Voluntary groups and Land and Property Services, as well as with staff and service users of the Inclusion Health Service to get their input on the optimum location for the service.
The Trust has also been actively viewing a number of properties and recently one has been identified as potentially being suitable. Trust representatives are currently engaging with the relevant landlord to discuss potential lease of the property, including any specific refurbishment work that would need to be completed before this could be agreed.
Given these talks are currently ongoing I am not yet in a position to provide the member with a definitive timescale for when the Inclusion Health Service will be relocated to a new centre but I can assure you this will be done as soon as practicable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023332%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429928","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429928"}},{"id":"429162","reference":"AQW 23036/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-20","answerBy":"2025-03-07","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the Review of Housing Associations Grant will be published.","answerText":"The most recent Total Cost Indicator/Housing Association Grant review has been completed, and I am currently giving my consideration to it.","answerHtml":"The most recent Total Cost Indicator/Housing Association Grant review has been completed, and I am currently giving my consideration to it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023036%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429162","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429162"}},{"id":"428951","reference":"AQW 22931/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-19","answerBy":"2025-03-06","answered":"2025-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the Barnett consequentials he expects Northern Ireland to receive following the UK Government’s announcement of an additional £350 million in funding for existing affordable housing programmes.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nThe Executive will not receive any additional Barnett consequentials from the announcement of £350 million for affordable housing, as it is funded from existing Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government budgets.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
The Executive will not receive any additional Barnett consequentials from the announcement of £350 million for affordable housing, as it is funded from existing Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government budgets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022931%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428951"}},{"id":"428433","reference":"AQW 22732/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-17","answerBy":"2025-03-04","answered":"2025-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the (i) average; (ii) median; and (iii) longest number of days spent in temporary accommodation by households in the last ten financial years, including 2024-25, broken down by (a) Bespoke Facility of Temporary Accommodation; (b) Crash Dispersed Intensively Managed Emergency Accommodation; (c) Houses in Multiple Occupation; (d) Housing Association temporary accommodation; (e) single lets; (f) Dispersed Intensively Managed Emergency Accommodation; (g) voluntary sector hostels; (h) Housing Executive hostels; (i) hotel and bed and breakfast accommodation; and (j) all accommodation types.","answerText":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin April – September 2024, published on 12 December 2024, contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-april-september-2024\n\nThe accompanying tables at Section 3 contain details on temporary accommodation placements by banded length of stay and accommodation type; however, I am unable to provide a breakdown in the format you have requested.","answerHtml":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin April – September 2024, published on 12 December 2024, contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-april-september-2024
The accompanying tables at Section 3 contain details on temporary accommodation placements by banded length of stay and accommodation type; however, I am unable to provide a breakdown in the format you have requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022732%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428433","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428433"}},{"id":"428176","reference":"AQW 22645/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-02-24","answered":"2025-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the Letter of Expectation, sent by his Department to the Arts Council in week commencing 3 February 2025, means there will be a delay to funding for the Arts Sector from 1 April 2025.","answerText":"The alignment of Arts Council activity with my priorities may have implications for some of its plans and programmes.\n\nMore generally, the timing of budget allocations to departments, and the need for a 12 week public consultation on an Equality Impact Assessment, mean that final allocation letters to Arm’s Length Bodies are unlikely to be issued until after 1 April 2025.\n\nMy officials will work with the Arts Council to minimise any delays and disruption.","answerHtml":"The alignment of Arts Council activity with my priorities may have implications for some of its plans and programmes.
More generally, the timing of budget allocations to departments, and the need for a 12 week public consultation on an Equality Impact Assessment, mean that final allocation letters to Arm’s Length Bodies are unlikely to be issued until after 1 April 2025.
My officials will work with the Arts Council to minimise any delays and disruption.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022645%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428176","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428176"}},{"id":"428175","reference":"AQW 22644/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any research his Department has carried out to review the average income for individuals in the arts sector, such as artists, performers and craftspeople, including where the data can be accessed.","answerText":"The Arts Council of Northern Ireland commissioned research undertaken by Perspective Economics to inform the report ‘The Arts Council of Northern Ireland Working and Living Conditions of Artists in Northern Ireland’. This study sought to understand, as of 2024, what the income determinants and challenges are for artists in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe report can be accessed via the Arts Council website - https://artscouncil-ni.s3-assets.com/Working-and-Living-Conditions-of-Artists-In-Northern-Ireland.pdf","answerHtml":"The Arts Council of Northern Ireland commissioned research undertaken by Perspective Economics to inform the report ‘The Arts Council of Northern Ireland Working and Living Conditions of Artists in Northern Ireland’. This study sought to understand, as of 2024, what the income determinants and challenges are for artists in Northern Ireland.
The report can be accessed via the Arts Council website - https://artscouncil-ni.s3-assets.com/Working-and-Living-Conditions-of-Artists-In-Northern-Ireland.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022644%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428175","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428175"}},{"id":"428174","reference":"AQW 22643/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will make a bid for capital funding for 2025-26 to enable and improve (i) accessibility; and (ii) health and safety, for arts working spaces and audience areas, including studios, theatres and office spaces.","answerText":"The Arts Council of Northern Ireland, as my Department’s Arms-Length Body responsible for the arts, provides advice to my Department of capital needs arising in relation to the arts sector.\n\nMy decisions on the allocation of my Department’s capital funding allocation are made after analysis and prioritisation of various capital funding proposals in a very difficult budgetary situation.","answerHtml":"The Arts Council of Northern Ireland, as my Department’s Arms-Length Body responsible for the arts, provides advice to my Department of capital needs arising in relation to the arts sector.
My decisions on the allocation of my Department’s capital funding allocation are made after analysis and prioritisation of various capital funding proposals in a very difficult budgetary situation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022643%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428174","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428174"}},{"id":"428173","reference":"AQW 22642/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether his objectives and funding for the arts sector from 2025-26 will be based on co-production and co-design with the Arts Council and organisations and individuals delivering the arts; and (ii) to provide the evidence of this consultation.","answerText":"My department works closely with the Arts Council to understand the community value and economic impact that can be delivered by arts activity. This work, along with engagement with Executive Departments, district councils and other stakeholders, is informing the development of the Arts Policy, with which Arts Council strategies, activities and funding will be aligned. The draft Policy will be subject to public consultation.\n\nRecognising that the Policy remains under development, I have written to the Arts Council to lay out my priorities for the Council’s activities for 2025-26.\n\nWithin those parameters, and in line with its Strategic Plan, the detailed allocation of its funding is a matter for the Arts Council.","answerHtml":"My department works closely with the Arts Council to understand the community value and economic impact that can be delivered by arts activity. This work, along with engagement with Executive Departments, district councils and other stakeholders, is informing the development of the Arts Policy, with which Arts Council strategies, activities and funding will be aligned. The draft Policy will be subject to public consultation.
Recognising that the Policy remains under development, I have written to the Arts Council to lay out my priorities for the Council’s activities for 2025-26.
Within those parameters, and in line with its Strategic Plan, the detailed allocation of its funding is a matter for the Arts Council.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022642%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428173","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428173"}},{"id":"428025","reference":"AQW 22551/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the report or rationale he used to base his decision to set aside the findings and recommendations of the 2022 report from the Anti-Poverty Strategy Co-Design group.","answerText":"The Anti-Poverty Strategy is still in development and final decisions on its content will be a matter for the Executive.\n\nWork undertaken by the Co-Design Group under the previous mandate has provided a strong basis for taking this work forward. The final content of the Strategy will be based on and draw from a broad range of resources including inputs from the Anti-Poverty Strategy Expert Advisory Panel and Co-design Group alongside other research.","answerHtml":"The Anti-Poverty Strategy is still in development and final decisions on its content will be a matter for the Executive.
Work undertaken by the Co-Design Group under the previous mandate has provided a strong basis for taking this work forward. The final content of the Strategy will be based on and draw from a broad range of resources including inputs from the Anti-Poverty Strategy Expert Advisory Panel and Co-design Group alongside other research.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022551%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428025","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428025"}},{"id":"428024","reference":"AQW 22550/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he will add (i) sign language to the modern languages curriculum to deliver access to learning British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language for Key Stage 3 pupils; and (ii) an introduction to sign language in primary schools.","answerText":"Within the statutory requirements there are a range of opportunities for schools to include Sign Language within their curriculum provision.\n\nThe Area of Learning ‘Language and Literacy’ places value on the ways in which learning another language such as sign language can improve children’s communication and literacy skills and can help them to develop cultural understanding, which is one of the key elements that underpin the Northern Ireland Curriculum objectives.\n\nSchools can currently choose to teach Makaton, British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language. They have the opportunity to access resources and support from organizations including the National Deaf Children’s Organisation and Action Deaf Youth. Additionally, schools can use their delegated budget to engage the services of any organisation for delivery purposes.\n\nMy Department recognises the importance of British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) in fostering inclusivity and accessibility within our education system. While sign languages serve as vital communication tools, they are distinct from spoken modern languages in terms of structure and use.\n\nI will continue to evaluate the role of sign language in supporting communication and accessibility for all learners. With the Sign Language Bill currently progressing, my officials will want to consider the impact and operational practicalities of any proposals including the impact on the Northern Ireland Curriculum.","answerHtml":"Within the statutory requirements there are a range of opportunities for schools to include Sign Language within their curriculum provision.
The Area of Learning ‘Language and Literacy’ places value on the ways in which learning another language such as sign language can improve children’s communication and literacy skills and can help them to develop cultural understanding, which is one of the key elements that underpin the Northern Ireland Curriculum objectives.
Schools can currently choose to teach Makaton, British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language. They have the opportunity to access resources and support from organizations including the National Deaf Children’s Organisation and Action Deaf Youth. Additionally, schools can use their delegated budget to engage the services of any organisation for delivery purposes.
My Department recognises the importance of British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) in fostering inclusivity and accessibility within our education system. While sign languages serve as vital communication tools, they are distinct from spoken modern languages in terms of structure and use.
I will continue to evaluate the role of sign language in supporting communication and accessibility for all learners. With the Sign Language Bill currently progressing, my officials will want to consider the impact and operational practicalities of any proposals including the impact on the Northern Ireland Curriculum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022550%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428024","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428024"}},{"id":"428023","reference":"AQW 22549/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the targets and measures taken by his Department since it was formed as a result of the Departments Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, to achieve the intentions of the Child Poverty Act 2010.","answerText":"The responsibility for producing and reporting on a Child Poverty Strategy arose from the Child Poverty Act 2010. This was amended and renamed as the Life Chances Act 2010 following the Welfare Reform and Work Act 2016. The legislative responsibility under the Child Poverty/Life Chances Act expired in 2020.\n\nDfC’s responsibility was to review the Strategy every three years and to report on it annually. Annual reports were collated and published throughout the life span of the Strategy. Annual reports for the last two years of the Strategy are available at the following links https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/communities/dfc-child-poverty-annual-report-2021-2022.pdf and https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/communities/dfc-child-poverty-annual-report-2020-2021.pdf\n\nThe Executive’s Child Poverty Strategy 2016 was laid before the Assembly on 16 March 2016. On 8 July 2020, it was agreed to extend the term of the Child Poverty Strategy 2016-2019 until May 2022.","answerHtml":"The responsibility for producing and reporting on a Child Poverty Strategy arose from the Child Poverty Act 2010. This was amended and renamed as the Life Chances Act 2010 following the Welfare Reform and Work Act 2016. The legislative responsibility under the Child Poverty/Life Chances Act expired in 2020.
DfC’s responsibility was to review the Strategy every three years and to report on it annually. Annual reports were collated and published throughout the life span of the Strategy. Annual reports for the last two years of the Strategy are available at the following links https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/communities/dfc-child-poverty-annual-report-2021-2022.pdf and https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/communities/dfc-child-poverty-annual-report-2020-2021.pdf
The Executive’s Child Poverty Strategy 2016 was laid before the Assembly on 16 March 2016. On 8 July 2020, it was agreed to extend the term of the Child Poverty Strategy 2016-2019 until May 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022549%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428023","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428023"}},{"id":"428022","reference":"AQW 22548/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of households living below the poverty line, defined as 60 per cent of median income, that are paying back an advance payment or budget loan issued by his Department in each year for the last five years, broken down by local council area.","answerText":"Official measures of absolute and relative poverty for Northern Ireland are derived from the Family Resources Survey.\n\nThe Family Resources Survey does not hold information on repayment of budget loans or advanced payments issued by my Department.","answerHtml":"Official measures of absolute and relative poverty for Northern Ireland are derived from the Family Resources Survey.
The Family Resources Survey does not hold information on repayment of budget loans or advanced payments issued by my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022548%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428022","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428022"}},{"id":"428021","reference":"AQW 22547/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any issues preventing him from publishing an Anti-Poverty Strategy.","answerText":"It remains my intention to present a paper on the Anti-Poverty Strategy to the Executive before the end of March.","answerHtml":"It remains my intention to present a paper on the Anti-Poverty Strategy to the Executive before the end of March.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022547%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428021","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428021"}},{"id":"430459","reference":"AQO 1624/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-25","answered":"2025-02-26","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 damage to forests and country parks as a result of Storm Éowyn.","answerText":"Many of my Department’s forests have suffered significant damage from Storm Éowyn and the impacts are widespread throughout the estate. Forests which have been particularly affected include; Drum Manor, Gosford, Tardree, Mount Stewart, Ballysallagh, Tollymore, Castlewellan, Lough Navar, Favour Royal, Mullaghafad and Kesh.\n\nForest Service’s assessment of the extent of woodlands damaged is based on initial reports from local managers, neighbours and the general public. Also, on drone footage and aerial surveillance which was undertaken in the week following the storm across the forest estate. The full extent of the damage to woodlands has still to be quantified and will require follow-up ground surveys, mapping and analysis of spatial data which is ongoing and will take a number of weeks to complete.\n\nIn the immediate aftermath of the storm, the focus was to prioritise the Department’s, and available contractor capability, in clearance works to reinstate access for neighbours and businesses. Also, my Department worked with other agencies to reopen public roads and assist in reconnecting electricity and utility supplies. We are continuing our work, including with recreational partners, to expedite tree clearance works in areas most affected by reduced recreational provision.\n\nMy Department’s country park sites were also significantly affected by Storm Éowyn which resulted in damage to woodland areas and many fallen trees. While access to numerous sites was initially blocked, and some sites were closed in the immediate aftermath of the storm, arboriculture contractors were engaged by my officials and these sites are now open to public access. There were reports of damage to neighbouring property, however officials continue to work with affected landowners to resolve this.","answerHtml":"Many of my Department’s forests have suffered significant damage from Storm Éowyn and the impacts are widespread throughout the estate. Forests which have been particularly affected include; Drum Manor, Gosford, Tardree, Mount Stewart, Ballysallagh, Tollymore, Castlewellan, Lough Navar, Favour Royal, Mullaghafad and Kesh.
Forest Service’s assessment of the extent of woodlands damaged is based on initial reports from local managers, neighbours and the general public. Also, on drone footage and aerial surveillance which was undertaken in the week following the storm across the forest estate. The full extent of the damage to woodlands has still to be quantified and will require follow-up ground surveys, mapping and analysis of spatial data which is ongoing and will take a number of weeks to complete.
In the immediate aftermath of the storm, the focus was to prioritise the Department’s, and available contractor capability, in clearance works to reinstate access for neighbours and businesses. Also, my Department worked with other agencies to reopen public roads and assist in reconnecting electricity and utility supplies. We are continuing our work, including with recreational partners, to expedite tree clearance works in areas most affected by reduced recreational provision.
My Department’s country park sites were also significantly affected by Storm Éowyn which resulted in damage to woodland areas and many fallen trees. While access to numerous sites was initially blocked, and some sites were closed in the immediate aftermath of the storm, arboriculture contractors were engaged by my officials and these sites are now open to public access. There were reports of damage to neighbouring property, however officials continue to work with affected landowners to resolve this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201624%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430459","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430459"}},{"id":"427646","reference":"AQW 22362/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-11","answerBy":"2025-02-26","answered":"2025-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how the number of higher education teacher training places, requested by the Department of Education for the new academic year starting September 2025, compares to the number of teaching jobs expected to be available in Northern Ireland in 2028.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland, full-time Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Initial Teacher Education (ITE) courses are one year in duration, while Bachelor of Education (BEd) ITE courses are four years. This means that student teachers commencing a BEd ITE course in September 2025 would qualify in 2029.\n\nEach year, my Department sets the overall intake numbers for ITE programmes in Northern Ireland. This process is informed by the Teacher Demand Model (TDM), which projects primary and post-primary teacher vacancies in future years to estimate the necessary intakes into ITE. However, the TDM is only one of several factors considered in decision-making, providing an indicative figure for the upcoming academic year and the subsequent year.\n\nEffective workforce planning is crucial to ensuring that Northern Ireland has an education workforce of the right size, with the right skills and structured effectively to deliver the best possible education for our children and young people. My Department, along with colleagues in the Education Authority, is currently developing an education workforce strategy to address these long-term needs. In particular, we will put in place medium and long-term strategic monitoring of teacher supply to anticipate and remediate issues and also review how best to attract high quality graduates to subject shortage areas.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland, full-time Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Initial Teacher Education (ITE) courses are one year in duration, while Bachelor of Education (BEd) ITE courses are four years. This means that student teachers commencing a BEd ITE course in September 2025 would qualify in 2029.
Each year, my Department sets the overall intake numbers for ITE programmes in Northern Ireland. This process is informed by the Teacher Demand Model (TDM), which projects primary and post-primary teacher vacancies in future years to estimate the necessary intakes into ITE. However, the TDM is only one of several factors considered in decision-making, providing an indicative figure for the upcoming academic year and the subsequent year.
Effective workforce planning is crucial to ensuring that Northern Ireland has an education workforce of the right size, with the right skills and structured effectively to deliver the best possible education for our children and young people. My Department, along with colleagues in the Education Authority, is currently developing an education workforce strategy to address these long-term needs. In particular, we will put in place medium and long-term strategic monitoring of teacher supply to anticipate and remediate issues and also review how best to attract high quality graduates to subject shortage areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022362%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427646","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427646"}},{"id":"427645","reference":"AQW 22361/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-11","answerBy":"2025-02-26","answered":"2025-02-19","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 detail any actions her Department is taking to help homeowners and landlords, especially in rural areas, to move away from fossil fuels, particularly oil dependence, to an energy efficient alternative.","answerText":"At present, financial assistance is available through the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP), for fully supported, and part funded schemes, for the installation of energy efficiency measures and heat pumps, with most of the funding targeted at lower income customers.\n\nMy department has recently consulted on future support of low carbon technologies in residential properties, which closed 10th January 2025.\n\nThe views provided will support my department in the development of policy to inform options regarding the design, rules, and guidance of future support for low carbon heat, which will include energy efficient technologies like heat pumps.","answerHtml":"At present, financial assistance is available through the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP), for fully supported, and part funded schemes, for the installation of energy efficiency measures and heat pumps, with most of the funding targeted at lower income customers.
My department has recently consulted on future support of low carbon technologies in residential properties, which closed 10th January 2025.
The views provided will support my department in the development of policy to inform options regarding the design, rules, and guidance of future support for low carbon heat, which will include energy efficient technologies like heat pumps.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022361%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427645","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427645"}},{"id":"427644","reference":"AQW 22360/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-11","answerBy":"2025-02-26","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 has determined, in conjunction with the Minister for the Economy, the qualification requirements and student numbers needed to fill the mental health care gap in every Health and Social Care Trust to ensure sufficient places are available in further and higher education to meet need.","answerText":"The Mental Health Workforce Review 2022-2032 was delivered in response to Action 32 of the Mental Health Strategy (MHS). The purpose of the review was to consider the existing workforce and new models of working, with a view to providing a future workforce profile that will meet the needs of the population into the future. It makes several recommendations relating to pathways into the workforce which includes improving undergraduate access to mental health training.\n\nWork is ongoing to progress Recommendation 1, to fully cost the future workforce profile and, Recommendation 2, to establish a task and finish group to oversee the prioritisation of service developments and recruitment. It is expected this work will be completed by June.\n\nI have not held any specific discussions with the Minister for the Economy on this matter.","answerHtml":"The Mental Health Workforce Review 2022-2032 was delivered in response to Action 32 of the Mental Health Strategy (MHS). The purpose of the review was to consider the existing workforce and new models of working, with a view to providing a future workforce profile that will meet the needs of the population into the future. It makes several recommendations relating to pathways into the workforce which includes improving undergraduate access to mental health training.
Work is ongoing to progress Recommendation 1, to fully cost the future workforce profile and, Recommendation 2, to establish a task and finish group to oversee the prioritisation of service developments and recruitment. It is expected this work will be completed by June.
I have not held any specific discussions with the Minister for the Economy on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022360%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427644","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427644"}},{"id":"427643","reference":"AQW 22359/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-11","answerBy":"2025-02-26","answered":"2025-02-26","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 unpaid carers registered as of 31 January 2025, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"At present, carers’ registers are in place regionally across Northern Ireland and maintained by the Health and Social Care Trusts, which carers can voluntarily choose to join. These registers are primarily a means of sharing information and advice with carers and for supporting carers through networks and activities. The Department does not hold information as to the numbers registered, this is held locally at Trust level, and we do not have the breakdown of the numbers by Trust on 31st January 2025. However, the Department is aware that at September 2023 these registers listed approximately 13,000 carers. The breakdown for each Trust is noted below and whilst there will have been some expected fluctuation as carers join and leave the registers, we do not expect the numbers registered to have significantly changed.\n\nSHSCT – 1596\n\nSEHSCT – 2700\n\nBHSCT - 3648\n\nWHSCT – 2670\n\nNHSCT - 2500","answerHtml":"At present, carers’ registers are in place regionally across Northern Ireland and maintained by the Health and Social Care Trusts, which carers can voluntarily choose to join. These registers are primarily a means of sharing information and advice with carers and for supporting carers through networks and activities. The Department does not hold information as to the numbers registered, this is held locally at Trust level, and we do not have the breakdown of the numbers by Trust on 31st January 2025. However, the Department is aware that at September 2023 these registers listed approximately 13,000 carers. The breakdown for each Trust is noted below and whilst there will have been some expected fluctuation as carers join and leave the registers, we do not expect the numbers registered to have significantly changed.
SHSCT – 1596
SEHSCT – 2700
BHSCT - 3648
WHSCT – 2670
NHSCT - 2500
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022359%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427643","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427643"}},{"id":"427642","reference":"AQW 22358/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-11","answerBy":"2025-02-26","answered":"2025-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any actions that will be taken by the Historic Environment Division to save the historic Kircubbin Harbour following further damage to the quay and retaining walls during recent storms and the lack of restoration and preventative measures taken by the owner.","answerText":"My officials have inspected the historic Kircubbin Harbour, a scheduled historic monument, since Storm Eowyn and have noted further ongoing erosion. My department has no responsibility for maintaining scheduled monuments in private ownership but does advise and support owners in doing so.\n\nHistoric Environment Division officials will be writing to the owner, once again, to bring the deteriorating condition of the harbour to his attention. The letter will also make him aware that, on application, the department can offer a small financial contribution for emergency holding works under its Historic Environment Fund Monument Regeneration stream.\n\nMy officials will also continue to work with the local community who have a particular interest in this site, in conjunction with the owner and Ards and North Down Borough Council.","answerHtml":"My officials have inspected the historic Kircubbin Harbour, a scheduled historic monument, since Storm Eowyn and have noted further ongoing erosion. My department has no responsibility for maintaining scheduled monuments in private ownership but does advise and support owners in doing so.
Historic Environment Division officials will be writing to the owner, once again, to bring the deteriorating condition of the harbour to his attention. The letter will also make him aware that, on application, the department can offer a small financial contribution for emergency holding works under its Historic Environment Fund Monument Regeneration stream.
My officials will also continue to work with the local community who have a particular interest in this site, in conjunction with the owner and Ards and North Down Borough Council.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022358%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427642","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427642"}},{"id":"427293","reference":"AQW 22264/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-10","answerBy":"2025-02-25","answered":"2025-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will review NI Water’s priorities to add housing as a key consideration for how and where investment is spent.","answerText":"In October monitoring, NI Water received £32m, of which £19.5m has been used to successfully unlock capacity for 2,300 properties across Antrim, Derry and Tyrone.\n\nI plan to continue that focus on unlocking capacity and can advise that my officials are working collaboratively with colleagues in DAERA and DfC to contribute to the aims and objectives of the Executive’s Housing Supply Strategy.\n\nI will also continue to develop the three-pronged approach that is already in place. Firstly, working with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment for NI Water, secondly, bringing forward new legislation in relation to sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), which will help to store stormwater so that it releases slower into the wastewater network and thirdly, officials are examining the legislative change required to bring forward developer contributions with a view to consulting on the proposals in March 2025.","answerHtml":"In October monitoring, NI Water received £32m, of which £19.5m has been used to successfully unlock capacity for 2,300 properties across Antrim, Derry and Tyrone.
I plan to continue that focus on unlocking capacity and can advise that my officials are working collaboratively with colleagues in DAERA and DfC to contribute to the aims and objectives of the Executive’s Housing Supply Strategy.
I will also continue to develop the three-pronged approach that is already in place. Firstly, working with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment for NI Water, secondly, bringing forward new legislation in relation to sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), which will help to store stormwater so that it releases slower into the wastewater network and thirdly, officials are examining the legislative change required to bring forward developer contributions with a view to consulting on the proposals in March 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022264%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427293","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427293"}},{"id":"427292","reference":"AQW 22263/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-10","answerBy":"2025-02-25","answered":"2025-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the funding stream within his Department that the network of Men’s Sheds can apply to in 2025-26 to cover their core operating costs.","answerText":"Community Empowerment Division provide funding of approx. £10k per annum to one men’s shed project, located in Ballymena. Subject to progression of the People & Place review process, there are no new funding opportunities available for the network of Men’s Sheds in 2025-26.","answerHtml":"Community Empowerment Division provide funding of approx. £10k per annum to one men’s shed project, located in Ballymena. Subject to progression of the People & Place review process, there are no new funding opportunities available for the network of Men’s Sheds in 2025-26.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022263%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427292","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427292"}},{"id":"427291","reference":"AQW 22262/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-10","answerBy":"2025-02-25","answered":"2025-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any legislation or regulation that empowers his Department to censor the type or content of books, periodicals and other written materials included in Libraries NI stock.","answerText":"My Department’s role and powers in relation to the NI Library Authority are set out in the Libraries Act (Northern Ireland) 2008.","answerHtml":"My Department’s role and powers in relation to the NI Library Authority are set out in the Libraries Act (Northern Ireland) 2008.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022262%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427291","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427291"}},{"id":"427290","reference":"AQW 22261/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-10","answerBy":"2025-02-25","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether there will be a review of the existing housing points allocated to Housing Selection Scheme applicants after 31 March 2025, as any applications after this date will not be able to compete with those that had intimidation points applied.","answerText":"Following 31 March 2025 all applications will be assessed using the same criteria. Transitional arrangements will be in place for only those who already have intimidation points or whose application is in train until such times as they are re-housed or refuse two reasonable offers.\n\nFurther changes to the Housing Selection Scheme are planned as part of the ongoing Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations. Two implementation stages remain which will now include a review of Primary Social Needs criteria and points.","answerHtml":"Following 31 March 2025 all applications will be assessed using the same criteria. Transitional arrangements will be in place for only those who already have intimidation points or whose application is in train until such times as they are re-housed or refuse two reasonable offers.
Further changes to the Housing Selection Scheme are planned as part of the ongoing Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations. Two implementation stages remain which will now include a review of Primary Social Needs criteria and points.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022261%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427290","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427290"}},{"id":"427289","reference":"AQW 22260/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-10","answerBy":"2025-02-25","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many points will be issued for Housing Selection Scheme applicants who qualify for Primary Social Needs after intimidation points end on 31 March 2025.","answerText":"Points that are issued for applicants who qualify for Primary Social Needs after 31 March 2025 will remain as they are until the review of criteria and points has been completed. This will be completed as part of the ongoing Fundamental Review of Allocations.","answerHtml":"Points that are issued for applicants who qualify for Primary Social Needs after 31 March 2025 will remain as they are until the review of criteria and points has been completed. This will be completed as part of the ongoing Fundamental Review of Allocations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022260%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427289","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427289"}},{"id":"444684","reference":"AQO 1546/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-06","answerBy":"2025-02-17","answered":"2025-06-25","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 when the review and next steps of the Together: Building a United Community Strategy will be published.","answerText":"We are currently considering recommendations from the T:BUC Review and these will shape the timeline for the development of a refreshed approach to Good Relations. In the meantime, the delivery of T:BUC continues to positively impact those most in need.","answerHtml":"We are currently considering recommendations from the T:BUC Review and these will shape the timeline for the development of a refreshed approach to Good Relations. In the meantime, the delivery of T:BUC continues to positively impact those most in need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201546%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444684","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444684"}},{"id":"426626","reference":"AQW 21892/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-04","answerBy":"2025-02-19","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any preparatory work undertaken to support employees with disabilities, and their employer, in the event of the cessation of the Employment Support Scheme.","answerText":"An EQIA was published on 25th November 2024 for 12 weeks seeking the views of the public on the proposal to cease funding for the Employment Support Scheme. This public consultation closed on 17th February 2025 and no final decision will be made until the public consultation report is completed.\n\nThere has been ongoing engagement with the two providers of the Employment Support Scheme prior to and throughout the EQIA process. The providers continue to provide support and guidance to the scheme participants and their employers within their role as my department’s delivery partners. My department will continue to engage with and provide guidance to the scheme providers throughout, as required.","answerHtml":"An EQIA was published on 25th November 2024 for 12 weeks seeking the views of the public on the proposal to cease funding for the Employment Support Scheme. This public consultation closed on 17th February 2025 and no final decision will be made until the public consultation report is completed.
There has been ongoing engagement with the two providers of the Employment Support Scheme prior to and throughout the EQIA process. The providers continue to provide support and guidance to the scheme participants and their employers within their role as my department’s delivery partners. My department will continue to engage with and provide guidance to the scheme providers throughout, as required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021892%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426626","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426626"}},{"id":"426625","reference":"AQW 21891/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-04","answerBy":"2025-02-19","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department will meet the redundancy costs for those in supported employment with wage subsidy through the Employment Support Scheme.","answerText":"Redundancy is not necessarily a direct impact of the Employment Support Scheme funding ceasing. My department will continue to engage with and provide guidance to the scheme providers throughout, as required.\n\nIf the employer decides that a job can no longer be sustained, and redundancy is the only viable option, my department will pay the relevant percentage portion for the statutory rate of any redundancy payments and the employer must pay their percentage. The wage subsidy is based on the person’s agreed output/productivity in their specific job role with a split contribution from my department and the Employer. Any redundancy costs is based on the same principle.","answerHtml":"Redundancy is not necessarily a direct impact of the Employment Support Scheme funding ceasing. My department will continue to engage with and provide guidance to the scheme providers throughout, as required.
If the employer decides that a job can no longer be sustained, and redundancy is the only viable option, my department will pay the relevant percentage portion for the statutory rate of any redundancy payments and the employer must pay their percentage. The wage subsidy is based on the person’s agreed output/productivity in their specific job role with a split contribution from my department and the Employer. Any redundancy costs is based on the same principle.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021891%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426625","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426625"}},{"id":"426624","reference":"AQW 21890/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-04","answerBy":"2025-02-19","answered":"2025-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will update his Department’s communications policy to ensure all consultations and communications include accessible options such as, but not limited to, Easy Read, as common practice rather than on request.","answerText":"My Department currently follows and will continue to follow best practice in this area. Officials strive to ensure that all published departmental information and communications are considered for alternative formats, including Easy Read, producing these at first publication whenever it is appropriate to do so. Thereafter, any alternative formats requested are provided promptly for those that require them. This process is in keeping with the ‘Accessible communication formats’ guidance provided by the Cabinet Office and Disability Unit.\n\nOfficials also work to ensure that all digital communications are compliant with the Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations to ensure those using assistive technologies are not disadvantaged in any way.","answerHtml":"My Department currently follows and will continue to follow best practice in this area. Officials strive to ensure that all published departmental information and communications are considered for alternative formats, including Easy Read, producing these at first publication whenever it is appropriate to do so. Thereafter, any alternative formats requested are provided promptly for those that require them. This process is in keeping with the ‘Accessible communication formats’ guidance provided by the Cabinet Office and Disability Unit.
Officials also work to ensure that all digital communications are compliant with the Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations to ensure those using assistive technologies are not disadvantaged in any way.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021890%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426624","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426624"}},{"id":"426623","reference":"AQW 21889/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-04","answerBy":"2025-02-19","answered":"2025-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he will update his Department’s communications policy to ensure all consultations and communications include accessible options such as, but not limited to, Easy Read, as common practice rather than on request.","answerText":"My Department currently follows and will continue to follow best practice in this area. All published departmental information and communications are considered for alternative formats, including Easy Read.\n\nFor example, Easy Read documents were published for the Department of Education’s Draft 2023-2028 Corporate Plan consultation, the Children and Young People’s Strategy 2019-2029 consultation, the Making School Uniforms More Affordable consultation, the Free School Meals and Uniform Grant consultation, the Deferring School Starting Age consultation, and the Children & Young People's Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework.\n\nThe Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) also publish easy read versions or pupil friendly versions.\n\nEasy Read documents are produced at first publication whenever it is appropriate to do so. Any alternative formats, when requested, are provided promptly for those that require them. This process is in keeping with the ‘Accessible communication formats’ guidance provided by the Cabinet Office and Disability Unit.","answerHtml":"My Department currently follows and will continue to follow best practice in this area. All published departmental information and communications are considered for alternative formats, including Easy Read.
For example, Easy Read documents were published for the Department of Education’s Draft 2023-2028 Corporate Plan consultation, the Children and Young People’s Strategy 2019-2029 consultation, the Making School Uniforms More Affordable consultation, the Free School Meals and Uniform Grant consultation, the Deferring School Starting Age consultation, and the Children & Young People's Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework.
The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) also publish easy read versions or pupil friendly versions.
Easy Read documents are produced at first publication whenever it is appropriate to do so. Any alternative formats, when requested, are provided promptly for those that require them. This process is in keeping with the ‘Accessible communication formats’ guidance provided by the Cabinet Office and Disability Unit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021889%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426623","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426623"}},{"id":"426622","reference":"AQW 21888/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-04","answerBy":"2025-02-19","answered":"2025-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether there has been research to consider what percentage of after-school activities in mainstream schools include children who have a statement of special educational need.","answerText":"Neither the department nor the Education Authority (EA) hold this information.","answerHtml":"Neither the department nor the Education Authority (EA) hold this information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021888%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426622","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426622"}},{"id":"427699","reference":"AQO 1520/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-30","answerBy":"2025-02-10","answered":"2025-02-10","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 the Draft Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan, particularly with regards to offshore wind energy.","answerText":"Question 11 – AQO 1520/22-27\n\nMy Department, in collaboration with other departments and key stakeholders, have developed an Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan (OREAP) to enable offshore renewable energy development in the north’s marine area from 2030.\n\nDfE have appointed RPS Ireland to undertake an update to the 2012 Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA) of Offshore Renewable Energy in the north’s Marine Area.\n\nThe SEA/HRA will enable us, in collaboration with key delivery partners, to identify suitable areas for offshore renewable energy development across various technology types including wind.","answerHtml":"Question 11 – AQO 1520/22-27
My Department, in collaboration with other departments and key stakeholders, have developed an Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan (OREAP) to enable offshore renewable energy development in the north’s marine area from 2030.
DfE have appointed RPS Ireland to undertake an update to the 2012 Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA) of Offshore Renewable Energy in the north’s Marine Area.
The SEA/HRA will enable us, in collaboration with key delivery partners, to identify suitable areas for offshore renewable energy development across various technology types including wind.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201520%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427699","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427699"}},{"id":"425849","reference":"AQW 21565/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will develop a data sharing agreement between the Housing Executive and the Department for Work and Pensions to ensure that when a change to benefits or pension payment occurs, the client's file is updated to reduce the number of housing benefit payments.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive, and I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me that:\n\n“The Housing Executive can confirm that Section 116C and 116D of the Social Security Administration (NI) Act 1992 enables the reciprocal sharing of information between benefit agencies for the purpose of administering their respective benefits, including Housing Benefit.\n\nFor Housing Benefit purposes, most benefit entitlement details are updated automatically via the Automatic Transfer to Local Authority Systems (ATLAS). This is a secure platform for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to electronically share benefit information between government agencies for efficient benefit administration. In 2023/24, the Housing Executive’s Housing Benefit Department dealt with 3,538,526 changes notified via the Department for Work and Pensions.\n\nWhere benefits are excluded from the ATLAS process, regular reports are run by Housing Executive decision makers to identify Housing Benefit customers in receipt of those benefits. Housing Executive decision makers have approval to access a digital portal used by the DWP, to verify information about individuals' benefit claims.\n\nAn obligation however remains with Housing Benefit customers to notify the Housing Executive of changes in circumstances, including changes to income. This duty to notify changes in circumstances is entailed in the Housing Benefit regulations. The customer signs a declaration on their application form to this effect and is reminded of the requirement in all Housing Benefit notifications.”\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, and I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me that:
“The Housing Executive can confirm that Section 116C and 116D of the Social Security Administration (NI) Act 1992 enables the reciprocal sharing of information between benefit agencies for the purpose of administering their respective benefits, including Housing Benefit.
For Housing Benefit purposes, most benefit entitlement details are updated automatically via the Automatic Transfer to Local Authority Systems (ATLAS). This is a secure platform for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to electronically share benefit information between government agencies for efficient benefit administration. In 2023/24, the Housing Executive’s Housing Benefit Department dealt with 3,538,526 changes notified via the Department for Work and Pensions.
Where benefits are excluded from the ATLAS process, regular reports are run by Housing Executive decision makers to identify Housing Benefit customers in receipt of those benefits. Housing Executive decision makers have approval to access a digital portal used by the DWP, to verify information about individuals' benefit claims.
An obligation however remains with Housing Benefit customers to notify the Housing Executive of changes in circumstances, including changes to income. This duty to notify changes in circumstances is entailed in the Housing Benefit regulations. The customer signs a declaration on their application form to this effect and is reminded of the requirement in all Housing Benefit notifications.”
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%2021565%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425849","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425849"}},{"id":"425848","reference":"AQW 21564/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following the decision to remove Intimidation points from the Housing Selection Scheme, whether a review of the median housing points across each Common Landlord Area will be completed.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive, and I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me that:\n\n“The Housing Executive plan to carry out modelling and analysis of Waiting List data in relation to the cumulative impact of the agreed points changes which are being implemented under the Fundamental Review of Allocations, including the removal of Intimidation Points. Given the inter-dependencies, further modelling and analysis will examine the collective impact of all these key points changes on the Waiting List. This work will inform decisions on the remaining changes to be implemented, including the introduction of banding.”\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, and I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me that:
“The Housing Executive plan to carry out modelling and analysis of Waiting List data in relation to the cumulative impact of the agreed points changes which are being implemented under the Fundamental Review of Allocations, including the removal of Intimidation Points. Given the inter-dependencies, further modelling and analysis will examine the collective impact of all these key points changes on the Waiting List. This work will inform decisions on the remaining changes to be implemented, including the introduction of banding.”
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%2021564%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425848","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425848"}},{"id":"425847","reference":"AQW 21563/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-24","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 actions being taken to deliver a scheme to enable people with health conditions to try a job for thirty days without losing benefit entitlements.","answerText":"The Department for Communities continues to deliver the Work Experience Programme, which offers short work experience placements of two to eight weeks with local employers for people aged 16-65 years. Participation in the programme is voluntary, and participants will retain their benefit entitlements.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities continues to deliver the Work Experience Programme, which offers short work experience placements of two to eight weeks with local employers for people aged 16-65 years. Participation in the programme is voluntary, and participants will retain their benefit entitlements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021563%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425847","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425847"}},{"id":"425846","reference":"AQW 21562/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how the public will be informed of the change to how people who are deemed economically inactive are categorised.","answerText":"My Department is not responsible for categorising economically inactive people or informing the public of associated changes to these processes in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My Department is not responsible for categorising economically inactive people or informing the public of associated changes to these processes in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021562%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425846","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425846"}},{"id":"425845","reference":"AQW 21561/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail when Land and Property services will be available online for the public to access as part of the Open Government commitment.","answerText":"There are a number of existing Land & Property Services (LPS) online services that can be found through the NI Direct website. These include Paying Rates Online, Searching Valuation Lists (https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/guide-rates) and Mapping Services (https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/osni-online-map-shop). Additionally, many LPS Open Datasets are available through the OpenDataNI portal (https://admin.opendatani.gov.uk/group/property?organization=land-property).\n\nThe LPS Transformation Programme will increase the level of online service provision across Land Registration, Valuation and Rating services. The first of these projects will implement a full range of transformed online services for Land Registration between October 2026 and October 2027.","answerHtml":"There are a number of existing Land & Property Services (LPS) online services that can be found through the NI Direct website. These include Paying Rates Online, Searching Valuation Lists (https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/guide-rates) and Mapping Services (https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/osni-online-map-shop). Additionally, many LPS Open Datasets are available through the OpenDataNI portal (https://admin.opendatani.gov.uk/group/property?organization=land-property).
The LPS Transformation Programme will increase the level of online service provision across Land Registration, Valuation and Rating services. The first of these projects will implement a full range of transformed online services for Land Registration between October 2026 and October 2027.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021561%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425845","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425845"}},{"id":"425624","reference":"AQW 21457/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-28","answerBy":"2025-02-05","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any support packages that will be made available for businesses unable to trade due to a lack of power caused by Storm Éowyn, including any specific criteria that will be used.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nCompensation for the loss of power would appear to be a matter for NIE networks in the first instance.\n\nThe Executive requested that NIE networks considers possible goodwill payments for customers who have been affected by Storm Éowyn.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
Compensation for the loss of power would appear to be a matter for NIE networks in the first instance.
The Executive requested that NIE networks considers possible goodwill payments for customers who have been affected by Storm Éowyn.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021457%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425624","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425624"}},{"id":"425312","reference":"AQW 21369/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-27","answerBy":"2025-01-30","answered":"2025-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any support packages that will be made available for businesses unable to trade due to a lack of power caused by Storm Éowyn, including any specific criteria that will be used.","answerText":"It has been agreed in principle that a compensation payment will be made to those customers impacted.\n\nI have written to the Utility Regulator to ask them to work with NIE and my Department on providing a compensation payment to those customers who have been affected. Their work will cover what will be paid, how it will be paid and when it will be paid.\n\nIt is important to note that NIE’s current priority is to restore all of those who are still without power.","answerHtml":"It has been agreed in principle that a compensation payment will be made to those customers impacted.
I have written to the Utility Regulator to ask them to work with NIE and my Department on providing a compensation payment to those customers who have been affected. Their work will cover what will be paid, how it will be paid and when it will be paid.
It is important to note that NIE’s current priority is to restore all of those who are still without power.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021369%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425312","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425312"}},{"id":"425311","reference":"AQW 21368/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-27","answerBy":"2025-02-11","answered":"2025-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) to review the Building Back Better scheme; and (ii) whether a similar project to help residents could be put in place in Northern Ireland for those impacted by (a) flooding; (b) storm damage; and (c) other adverse weather incidents.","answerText":"Financial services, including insurance, are reserved matters so reviewing the Building Back Better scheme including its extension to storm and other adverse weather damage to homes would be a matter for the British Government.\n\nMy Department already administers the Homeowner Flood Protection Grant Scheme (HFPGS) in the North of Ireland to support victims of flooding as well as helping to create a sustainable environment resilient to the impacts of our changing climate, whilst sharing knowledge and industry best practice.","answerHtml":"Financial services, including insurance, are reserved matters so reviewing the Building Back Better scheme including its extension to storm and other adverse weather damage to homes would be a matter for the British Government.
My Department already administers the Homeowner Flood Protection Grant Scheme (HFPGS) in the North of Ireland to support victims of flooding as well as helping to create a sustainable environment resilient to the impacts of our changing climate, whilst sharing knowledge and industry best practice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021368%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425311","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425311"}},{"id":"425310","reference":"AQW 21367/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-27","answerBy":"2025-02-11","answered":"2025-02-05","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 detail any actions that will be taken to secure the power network across Northern Ireland, given the move away from fossil fuels will increase residential dependency on electricity and the increasing in frequency and impact of adverse weather incidents.","answerText":"My department has been working with DAERA and all departments to finalise the third Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme (NICCAP3) in response to the risks and opportunities set out in the most recent UK Climate Change Risk Assessment (CRA3). The draft NICCAP3 will go to the Executive before a public consultation.\n\nThe planning and maintenance of the electricity grid is the collective responsibility of SONI and NIE Networks. NIE Networks is working towards the 2080 change models that were developed by the Met Office in its UK Climate Projections (UKCP 18).\n\nThe Utility Regulator has recently approved an unprecedented £2.23 billion for the development and maintenance of the electricity grid over the period April 2025 to March 2031.","answerHtml":"My department has been working with DAERA and all departments to finalise the third Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme (NICCAP3) in response to the risks and opportunities set out in the most recent UK Climate Change Risk Assessment (CRA3). The draft NICCAP3 will go to the Executive before a public consultation.
The planning and maintenance of the electricity grid is the collective responsibility of SONI and NIE Networks. NIE Networks is working towards the 2080 change models that were developed by the Met Office in its UK Climate Projections (UKCP 18).
The Utility Regulator has recently approved an unprecedented £2.23 billion for the development and maintenance of the electricity grid over the period April 2025 to March 2031.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021367%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425310","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425310"}},{"id":"424767","reference":"AQW 21132/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-22","answerBy":"2025-02-06","answered":"2025-02-13","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 to bring management agents and companies employed by Housing Associations into the scope of the Housing Regulation Branch, particularly in respect of tenant relations.","answerText":"I have no plans to bring management agents and companies employed by Housing Associations into the scope of the Housing Regulation Branch.","answerHtml":"I have no plans to bring management agents and companies employed by Housing Associations into the scope of the Housing Regulation Branch.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021132%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424767","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424767"}},{"id":"424766","reference":"AQW 21131/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-22","answerBy":"2025-02-06","answered":"2025-02-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how the (i) work of his Housing Regulation Branch; and (ii) role of the NI Public Service Ombudsman are promoted to tenants of Housing Associations.","answerText":"The role of my Department’s Housing Regulation Branch (HRB) is primarily promoted to tenants of registered housing associations (RHAs) via the Regulatory Framework for Registered Housing Associations in Northern Ireland, which is readily available on the Department’s website. This framework, effective from 01 April 2024, was subject to a recent high-level effectiveness review which was carried out in consultation with the sector, including tenants.\n\nThe Department was assisted during the review by Supporting Communities NI (SCNI), an independent charity that champions tenant and community participation. A stakeholder workshop, held specifically for tenants, was facilitated by SCNI to help ensure that the views of tenants were taken on board.\n\nSCNI is also a member of the Department’s Stakeholder Reference Group which meets biannually to discuss emerging issues and exchange good practice. The group consists of representatives from sectoral organisations, several Chief Executives of RHAs and Housing Policy colleagues.\n\nHRB also regularly attends various sectoral forums to promote its role. This includes a tenant forum facilitated by SCNI, namely the Housing Policy Panel, which acts in a consultative function to the Department, focusing on social housing-related matters. It is made up of tenant representatives from the social housing sector.\n\nThe role of the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO) is also set out in the Regulatory Framework and on the Department’s website. HRB does not deal with individual service-related complaints about RHAs. These should be progressed through the individual RHA’s complaints process in the first instance, and then through NIPSO if tenants remain unhappy. Each RHA has in place an individual complaints policy which clearly sets out the process for tenants. HRB ensures, during the regulatory process, and in keeping with the desired outcomes and expectations under Consumer Standard 2 of the Regulatory Framework, that RHAs make this information readily available to their tenants.\n\nNIPSO, in fulfilling its role in the process, will inform HRB of any concerns or systemic issues identified within an RHA, or the whole sector, to allow HRB to consider if the Department needs to take any follow up action in response.","answerHtml":"The role of my Department’s Housing Regulation Branch (HRB) is primarily promoted to tenants of registered housing associations (RHAs) via the Regulatory Framework for Registered Housing Associations in Northern Ireland, which is readily available on the Department’s website. This framework, effective from 01 April 2024, was subject to a recent high-level effectiveness review which was carried out in consultation with the sector, including tenants.
The Department was assisted during the review by Supporting Communities NI (SCNI), an independent charity that champions tenant and community participation. A stakeholder workshop, held specifically for tenants, was facilitated by SCNI to help ensure that the views of tenants were taken on board.
SCNI is also a member of the Department’s Stakeholder Reference Group which meets biannually to discuss emerging issues and exchange good practice. The group consists of representatives from sectoral organisations, several Chief Executives of RHAs and Housing Policy colleagues.
HRB also regularly attends various sectoral forums to promote its role. This includes a tenant forum facilitated by SCNI, namely the Housing Policy Panel, which acts in a consultative function to the Department, focusing on social housing-related matters. It is made up of tenant representatives from the social housing sector.
The role of the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO) is also set out in the Regulatory Framework and on the Department’s website. HRB does not deal with individual service-related complaints about RHAs. These should be progressed through the individual RHA’s complaints process in the first instance, and then through NIPSO if tenants remain unhappy. Each RHA has in place an individual complaints policy which clearly sets out the process for tenants. HRB ensures, during the regulatory process, and in keeping with the desired outcomes and expectations under Consumer Standard 2 of the Regulatory Framework, that RHAs make this information readily available to their tenants.
NIPSO, in fulfilling its role in the process, will inform HRB of any concerns or systemic issues identified within an RHA, or the whole sector, to allow HRB to consider if the Department needs to take any follow up action in response.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021131%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424766","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424766"}},{"id":"424765","reference":"AQW 21130/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-22","answerBy":"2025-02-06","answered":"2025-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of requests for regulative review of a Housing Association have been received by his Housing Regulation Branch in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Housing Regulation Branch has not received any requests from residents or tenant representative bodies for regulative review of a housing association in each of the last five years.","answerHtml":"Housing Regulation Branch has not received any requests from residents or tenant representative bodies for regulative review of a housing association in each of the last five years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021130%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424765","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424765"}},{"id":"424764","reference":"AQW 21129/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-22","answerBy":"2025-02-06","answered":"2025-02-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to provide a copy of the written process that GP practices must follow to ensure the local Health and Social Care Trust’s Carers Support is notified when a patient’s record is updated to include their role as a carer.","answerText":"There is no contractual requirement for GPs to record that a patient of the practice is a carer or to inform the local Health and Social Care Trust.\n\nHowever, in the Northern Local Commissioning Group (LCG) area there is a Local Enhanced Service for Carers Health, where service providers are required to consider signposting carers to other organisations, including the local Carers’ Hub. Contracting to provide this service is discretionary - 93 per cent of the 67 GP practices within the LCG area are currently providing the service.","answerHtml":"There is no contractual requirement for GPs to record that a patient of the practice is a carer or to inform the local Health and Social Care Trust.
However, in the Northern Local Commissioning Group (LCG) area there is a Local Enhanced Service for Carers Health, where service providers are required to consider signposting carers to other organisations, including the local Carers’ Hub. Contracting to provide this service is discretionary - 93 per cent of the 67 GP practices within the LCG area are currently providing the service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021129%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424764","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424764"}},{"id":"424763","reference":"AQW 21128/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-22","answerBy":"2025-02-06","answered":"2025-03-19","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 registered as a carer as at December 2024, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"A carer is defined as someone who provides regular and substantial care on an informal (unpaid) basis. Health and Social Care Trusts hold a database, the ‘Carer Register’, which is a mailing list of any informal, unpaid carer who has opted for their name and details to be kept on this Register. Carers can request to have their details removed at any time.\n\nThese registers are primarily a means of sharing information and advice with carers and for supporting carers through networks and activities. The breakdown for each Trust is noted below to reflect registered numbers in December 2024. Please consider that there will have been some expected fluctuation as carers join and leave the registers and current registered numbers may therefore be different.\n\nBHSCT\t5000\nNHSCT\t2830\nSET\t3926\nWHSCT\t3063\nSHSCT\t3568","answerHtml":"A carer is defined as someone who provides regular and substantial care on an informal (unpaid) basis. Health and Social Care Trusts hold a database, the ‘Carer Register’, which is a mailing list of any informal, unpaid carer who has opted for their name and details to be kept on this Register. Carers can request to have their details removed at any time.
These registers are primarily a means of sharing information and advice with carers and for supporting carers through networks and activities. The breakdown for each Trust is noted below to reflect registered numbers in December 2024. Please consider that there will have been some expected fluctuation as carers join and leave the registers and current registered numbers may therefore be different.
| BHSCT | 5000 |
| NHSCT | 2830 |
| SET | 3926 |
| WHSCT | 3063 |
| SHSCT | 3568 |
Medicines are manufactured as part of a highly regulated, complex and global industry; therefore, medicine supply disruptions can occur for a variety of reasons and are not uncommon. My Department is aware that there have been some UK-wide supply disruptions affecting various strengths and preparations of epilepsy medications in recent times, including carbamazepine, phenytoin and lamotrigine products, although most of these disruptions appear to have now been resolved.
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 to put in place tried and tested tools and processes should any disruptions arise. These existing tools and processes include communication to healthcare professionals such as National Patient Safety Alerts, Medicines Supply Notifications, NHS Specialist Pharmacy Services (SPS) resources including SPS medicines supply tool, and other mitigations such as Serious Shortage Protocols, additions to the export and hoarding ban list, additions to the NIMAR list, and the importation of medicines from other markets.
Several of these tools and processes have been implemented to mitigate the impact of anti-epileptic medicine shortages when supply disruptions have occurred.
It is important to note that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued updated advice following a review by the Commission on Human Medicines (CHM), that categorised anti-epileptic medicines into one of three risk-based categories, which healthcare professionals can use to decide whether it is necessary to maintain continuity of supply of a particular manufacturer’s product. Prescribing recommendations for Health and Social Care (HSC) healthcare professionals, outlined in the Northern Ireland Formulary, incorporate this MHRA guidance, and my Department’s policy that medicines should be prescribed generically in all appropriate circumstances as set out in the Northern Ireland Formulary.
Therefore, it can also be the case that patients can sometimes misconstrue not obtaining their preferred brand such as Zonegran® (zonisamide) as a supply disruption when their medication is prescribed generically. In such cases, it would be more appropriate for patients to discuss their treatment options and concerns with their clinicians.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021011%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424600","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424600"}},{"id":"424138","reference":"AQW 20814/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-17","answerBy":"2025-01-27","answered":"2025-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when his Department will progress legislation to (i) enable the Charity Commission to clarify the financial and reporting obligations for Section 167 charities registered elsewhere on these islands; and (ii) remove barriers to local funding for these charities","answerText":"Policy development for a Charities Bill is currently in progress. This work includes legislative amendments to address known flaws in relation to the operation of section 167 of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008.\n\nIt is anticipated that the Bill will be presented to the Assembly in the current mandate, followed by regulations to clarify financial and reporting obligations for section 167 charities and potentially remove barriers to local funding.","answerHtml":"Policy development for a Charities Bill is currently in progress. This work includes legislative amendments to address known flaws in relation to the operation of section 167 of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008.
It is anticipated that the Bill will be presented to the Assembly in the current mandate, followed by regulations to clarify financial and reporting obligations for section 167 charities and potentially remove barriers to local funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020814%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424138","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424138"}},{"id":"424137","reference":"AQW 20813/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-17","answerBy":"2025-02-03","answered":"2025-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether she will review the necessity to provide car parking space on Balloo Road, Bangor, opposite the former Rathgael House, given the building has been demolished and the area could be used for parking, allowing the land on Balloo Road to be used for social housing.","answerText":"The construction works at Rathgael House are being taken forward in two stages. The first stage was the demolition of the tower block which was completed in December 2024. The second stage will include the refurbishment of the front entrance and the provision of car parking spaces. This work is scheduled to be completed by the end of May 2025. The land on Balloo Road adjacent to Rathgael House, currently used for car parking, will then become surplus. Land & Property Services’ internal disposal process will then be initiated allowing it to be considered for alternative use by relevant public and third sector bodies.","answerHtml":"The construction works at Rathgael House are being taken forward in two stages. The first stage was the demolition of the tower block which was completed in December 2024. The second stage will include the refurbishment of the front entrance and the provision of car parking spaces. This work is scheduled to be completed by the end of May 2025. The land on Balloo Road adjacent to Rathgael House, currently used for car parking, will then become surplus. Land & Property Services’ internal disposal process will then be initiated allowing it to be considered for alternative use by relevant public and third sector bodies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020813%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424137","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424137"}},{"id":"424136","reference":"AQW 20812/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-17","answerBy":"2025-02-03","answered":"2025-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) when guidance will be provided to local councils and sports clubs in relation to the transition away from Artificial Grass Pitches; and (ii) any financial support that will be made available following the EU REACH restriction on the sale of rubber infill for 3G Artificial Grass Pitches.","answerText":"Guidance regarding Artificial Grass Pitches is an operational matter for Sport NI.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\nOn 25th September 2023, the European Commission announced the introduction of new rules on microplastic materials which will apply following an eight-year transition period, ending October 2031. Sport NI has shared this information with the sports sector, advising of the proposed changes and what this means for playing pitches.\n\nSport NI has published an Information Paper and a Position Statement at https://www.sportni.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Microplastics-Information-Paper-November-2023.pdf informing the sports sector of upcoming changes and advising on alternatives to rubber infill and reducing the impact of existing rubber infill.\n\nIn addition, Sport NI:\n\nHave engaged with Councils and Private Sector Integrated Consultancy Teams (ICT).\n\nHave attended and delivered workshops on the subject, including inviting the leading expert in this field to speak to delegates in NI.\n\nProvide on-going advice to the sports sector, via https://www.sportni.net/facilities/microplastics/\n\nContribute to a UK working group that is testing alternative (organic) infill products, and we are monitoring results.\n\nSport NI are also monitoring the development of new pitches in Republic of Ireland and are awaiting the availability of performance data.\n\nSport NI are not recommending a specific organic infill product (as an alternative to rubber), as there are now multiple such products available. However, we will provide information to enable others (i.e., ICTs) to select the most appropriate product on behalf of their clients.\n\nAt this time, my Department does not offer any programmes that disburse financial support to assist owners for maintenance or replacement of artificial grass pitches.\n\nIn addition, the Chief Executive of Sport NI has also advised as follows:\n\nMany synthetic pitches in Northern Ireland have been funded using public money. Subsequently there should be an expectation that owners of these assets have operated them in a financially sustainable way. This includes setting aside a portion of revenue each year to maintain their pitch and replace the asset at the end of its economic life (i.e. an Asset Replacement Fund or Sinking Fund). Synthetic pitches funded by Sport NI would have included this specific stipulation as part of the terms and conditions of award.\n\nSince September 2024, new Sport NI investment programmes have not funded 3G synthetic pitches with rubber infill. However, there is no financial support specifically to address the EU REACH restriction on the sale of rubber infill for 3G Artificial Grass Pitches.\n\nAs per my answer to AQW18949/22-27, my officials are currently engaging with other stakeholders and assessing the impact of the ban on the sale of rubber crumb for 3G artificial grass pitches from 2031 in Northern Ireland and I await an update on next steps.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact Sport NI directly. Making direct contact with Sport NI will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"Guidance regarding Artificial Grass Pitches is an operational matter for Sport NI.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
On 25th September 2023, the European Commission announced the introduction of new rules on microplastic materials which will apply following an eight-year transition period, ending October 2031. Sport NI has shared this information with the sports sector, advising of the proposed changes and what this means for playing pitches.
Sport NI has published an Information Paper and a Position Statement at https://www.sportni.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Microplastics-Information-Paper-November-2023.pdf informing the sports sector of upcoming changes and advising on alternatives to rubber infill and reducing the impact of existing rubber infill.
In addition, Sport NI:
Have engaged with Councils and Private Sector Integrated Consultancy Teams (ICT).
Have attended and delivered workshops on the subject, including inviting the leading expert in this field to speak to delegates in NI.
Provide on-going advice to the sports sector, via https://www.sportni.net/facilities/microplastics/
Contribute to a UK working group that is testing alternative (organic) infill products, and we are monitoring results.
Sport NI are also monitoring the development of new pitches in Republic of Ireland and are awaiting the availability of performance data.
Sport NI are not recommending a specific organic infill product (as an alternative to rubber), as there are now multiple such products available. However, we will provide information to enable others (i.e., ICTs) to select the most appropriate product on behalf of their clients.
At this time, my Department does not offer any programmes that disburse financial support to assist owners for maintenance or replacement of artificial grass pitches.
In addition, the Chief Executive of Sport NI has also advised as follows:
Many synthetic pitches in Northern Ireland have been funded using public money. Subsequently there should be an expectation that owners of these assets have operated them in a financially sustainable way. This includes setting aside a portion of revenue each year to maintain their pitch and replace the asset at the end of its economic life (i.e. an Asset Replacement Fund or Sinking Fund). Synthetic pitches funded by Sport NI would have included this specific stipulation as part of the terms and conditions of award.
Since September 2024, new Sport NI investment programmes have not funded 3G synthetic pitches with rubber infill. However, there is no financial support specifically to address the EU REACH restriction on the sale of rubber infill for 3G Artificial Grass Pitches.
As per my answer to AQW18949/22-27, my officials are currently engaging with other stakeholders and assessing the impact of the ban on the sale of rubber crumb for 3G artificial grass pitches from 2031 in Northern Ireland and I await an update on next steps.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact Sport NI directly. Making direct contact with Sport NI 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%2020812%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424136","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424136"}},{"id":"424135","reference":"AQW 20811/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-17","answerBy":"2025-02-03","answered":"2025-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will put in arrangements in place, along with the Housing Executive, to require all developments of ten social housing units or more to include a bus stop, at least two accessible and sustainable bus shelters and road space to enable access by an Ulsterbus-sized public transport vehicle to travel in and out of the residential space.","answerText":"There are no plans to make these a requirement for social housing schemes with 10 or more units. Requirements for public transport are contained within the “Creating Places” document used by the Planning Service when assessing the planning principles for residential developments.","answerHtml":"There are no plans to make these a requirement for social housing schemes with 10 or more units. Requirements for public transport are contained within the “Creating Places” document used by the Planning Service when assessing the planning principles for residential developments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020811%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424135","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424135"}},{"id":"424134","reference":"AQW 20810/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-17","answerBy":"2025-02-03","answered":"2025-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of charities that are recognised as Section 167 charities for the purposes of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland (the Commission). I have sought the requested information from the Commission, which has advised:\n\n‘There are currently no recognised section 167 charities for the purposes of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 as this legislative provision has yet to be commenced.\n\nThe Commission’s list of “section 167s” (last updated on 24 December 2024) details the 661 organisations which are established outside of Northern Ireland, but which have indicated they operate for charitable purposes in or from Northern Ireland and wish to register here. There may also be other organisations operating in Northern Ireland which fall under this category, but which have not made themselves known.’\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Commission directly. Making direct contact with the Commission will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources. A list of section 167 organisations is published on the Charity Commission’s website.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland (the Commission). I have sought the requested information from the Commission, which has advised:
‘There are currently no recognised section 167 charities for the purposes of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 as this legislative provision has yet to be commenced.
The Commission’s list of “section 167s” (last updated on 24 December 2024) details the 661 organisations which are established outside of Northern Ireland, but which have indicated they operate for charitable purposes in or from Northern Ireland and wish to register here. There may also be other organisations operating in Northern Ireland which fall under this category, but which have not made themselves known.’
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Commission directly. Making direct contact with the Commission will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources. A list of section 167 organisations is published on the Charity Commission’s website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020810%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424134","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424134"}},{"id":"423092","reference":"AQW 20279/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-17","answered":"2025-01-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide the link to the current Transformation to Integrated Status process guidance and templates as of January 2025.","answerText":"Transformation is the legal process in which a non-Integrated school becomes integrated. This process is set out in the legislation in the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (link).\n\nThe supporting Transformation guidance can be accessed on the Department of Education website at - Integration Works Transforming Your School (link).\n\nMy officials are currently reviewing the Transformation guidance to ensure it is fit for purpose. Any new guidance will continue to reflect the statutory Transformation process set out in the legislation.","answerHtml":"Transformation is the legal process in which a non-Integrated school becomes integrated. This process is set out in the legislation in the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (link).
The supporting Transformation guidance can be accessed on the Department of Education website at - Integration Works Transforming Your School (link).
My officials are currently reviewing the Transformation guidance to ensure it is fit for purpose. Any new guidance will continue to reflect the statutory Transformation process set out in the legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020279%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423092","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423092"}},{"id":"423091","reference":"AQW 20278/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-24","answered":"2025-01-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of children that have failed to secure a place in an integrated post-primary school in the North Down and Ards area in each of the last five years.","answerText":"My Department does not hold this information.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold this information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020278%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423091","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423091"}},{"id":"423090","reference":"AQW 20277/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-24","answered":"2025-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) why his departmental officials are developing a new Transformation process for schools making a Case for Change to become integrated; and (ii) to provide an indication of when the public consultation on the proposed changes will be held.","answerText":"Transformation is the legal process by which a non-Integrated school becomes integrated. This process is set out in the legislation in the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989.\n\nIn line with the commitment in the Integrated Education Strategy, my officials are reviewing the supporting Transformation guidance, Integration Works Transforming Your School to ensure it is fit for purpose. Any new guidance will continue to reflect the statutory Transformation process set out in the legislation.","answerHtml":"Transformation is the legal process by which a non-Integrated school becomes integrated. This process is set out in the legislation in the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989.
In line with the commitment in the Integrated Education Strategy, my officials are reviewing the supporting Transformation guidance, Integration Works Transforming Your School to ensure it is fit for purpose. Any new guidance will continue to reflect the statutory Transformation process set out in the legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020277%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423090","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423090"}},{"id":"422981","reference":"AQW 20176/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-08","answerBy":"2025-01-13","answered":"2025-01-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how the refusal to approve the Transformation to Integrated Status Development Plan for Bangor Academy and Sixth Form College and Rathmore Primary School is in line with the statutory requirements of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 and his duty to encourage, facilitate and support integrated education.","answerText":"My detailed reasons for not approving Development Proposals 727 and 728 clearly reference the considerations I gave to the provisions of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. The decisions and detailed reports on which they were taken may be accessed here: Development Proposal Decisions 2025 | Department of Education","answerHtml":"My detailed reasons for not approving Development Proposals 727 and 728 clearly reference the considerations I gave to the provisions of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. The decisions and detailed reports on which they were taken may be accessed here: Development Proposal Decisions 2025 | Department of Education
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020176%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=422981","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=422981"}},{"id":"422980","reference":"AQW 20175/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-08","answerBy":"2025-01-23","answered":"2025-01-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the outcome of the parental ballot asking if they supported their school transforming to integrated status held at (i) Bangor Academy and Sixth Form College; and (ii) Rathmore Primary School.","answerText":"This detail is referenced throughout the published reports and appendices on which I took my decisions on Development Proposals 727 and 728 and may be accessed at the following link: Development Proposal Decisions 2025 | Department of Education","answerHtml":"This detail is referenced throughout the published reports and appendices on which I took my decisions on Development Proposals 727 and 728 and may be accessed at the following link: Development Proposal Decisions 2025 | Department of Education
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020175%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=422980","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=422980"}},{"id":"422979","reference":"AQW 20174/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-08","answerBy":"2025-01-23","answered":"2025-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how he is ensuring his Department is providing sufficient places in integrated schools to meet demand, such as in the North Down and Ards area, as required by legislation.","answerText":"Section 1(1) of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 defines what integrated education means. It provides,\n\n“Integrated education” means the education together, in an integrated school, of—\n\n(a) those of different cultures and religious beliefs and of none, including reasonable numbers of both Protestant and Roman Catholic children or young persons;\n\n(b) those who are experiencing socio-economic deprivation and those who are not; and\n\n(c) those of different abilities.”\n\nMy Department will aim to meet demand, as required by legislation, as set out in the Section 10 report published in April 2024. In this report six locations, including North Down and Ards (Strangford Integrated College), were identified as having oversubscribed schools.\n\nOn conclusion of work to update guidance for schools considering transformation to Integrated status, my Department will commission the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) to engage with these oversubscribed integrated schools and the Education Authority (EA) in the six localities identified. The affected schools will be encouraged to review their enrolment numbers and school capacity and prepare and bring forward DPs to increase their enrolment numbers (if such changes are significant in nature).\n\nDE acknowledges that while this approach may partially address oversubscription issues, it is unlikely to resolve them in full. DE will therefore commission NICIE, working in partnership with EA and CSSC to issue a ‘Call for Transformation’ suggesting schools in the identified localities consider Transformation to integrated status to meet demand.\n\nTo further monitor demand across Northern Ireland, Departmental officials have included societal level questions on demand and the factors parents consider when makings school admission decisions in the annual Northern Ireland Life and Times survey. Results will be available in late Spring with a report in the Summer.\n\nOfficials are also working closely with colleagues in the Education Authority to develop and conduct a survey of parents who have recently made school preference decisions through the admissions portal. This survey will be carried out in April 2025 and will ask parents and guardians, in line with the Integrated Education Act, whether they have a preference for Integrated Education and how various factors have influenced their school preferences.\n\nBoth surveys will allow my Department to consider existing and future demand and provide data on which existing Area Planning structures can take action to aim to meet that demand in the context the overall sustainability of the school estate.","answerHtml":"Section 1(1) of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 defines what integrated education means. It provides,
“Integrated education” means the education together, in an integrated school, of—
(a) those of different cultures and religious beliefs and of none, including reasonable numbers of both Protestant and Roman Catholic children or young persons;
(b) those who are experiencing socio-economic deprivation and those who are not; and
(c) those of different abilities.”
My Department will aim to meet demand, as required by legislation, as set out in the Section 10 report published in April 2024. In this report six locations, including North Down and Ards (Strangford Integrated College), were identified as having oversubscribed schools.
On conclusion of work to update guidance for schools considering transformation to Integrated status, my Department will commission the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) to engage with these oversubscribed integrated schools and the Education Authority (EA) in the six localities identified. The affected schools will be encouraged to review their enrolment numbers and school capacity and prepare and bring forward DPs to increase their enrolment numbers (if such changes are significant in nature).
DE acknowledges that while this approach may partially address oversubscription issues, it is unlikely to resolve them in full. DE will therefore commission NICIE, working in partnership with EA and CSSC to issue a ‘Call for Transformation’ suggesting schools in the identified localities consider Transformation to integrated status to meet demand.
To further monitor demand across Northern Ireland, Departmental officials have included societal level questions on demand and the factors parents consider when makings school admission decisions in the annual Northern Ireland Life and Times survey. Results will be available in late Spring with a report in the Summer.
Officials are also working closely with colleagues in the Education Authority to develop and conduct a survey of parents who have recently made school preference decisions through the admissions portal. This survey will be carried out in April 2025 and will ask parents and guardians, in line with the Integrated Education Act, whether they have a preference for Integrated Education and how various factors have influenced their school preferences.
Both surveys will allow my Department to consider existing and future demand and provide data on which existing Area Planning structures can take action to aim to meet that demand in the context the overall sustainability of the school estate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020174%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=422979","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=422979"}},{"id":"422978","reference":"AQW 20173/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-08","answerBy":"2025-01-23","answered":"2025-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide the policy or regulations he used when he took the Ministerial decision not to uphold the departmental recommendation to approve the application for transformation to integrated status for Bangor Academy and Sixth Form College and Rathmore Primary School.","answerText":"All legislation and policies relevant to the assessment of the Development Proposals for these schools are included within the published reports and appendices on which I took my detailed decisions and may be accessed at the following link: Development Proposal Decisions 2025 | Department of Education.","answerHtml":"All legislation and policies relevant to the assessment of the Development Proposals for these schools are included within the published reports and appendices on which I took my detailed decisions and may be accessed at the following link: Development Proposal Decisions 2025 | Department of Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020173%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=422978","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=422978"}},{"id":"422977","reference":"AQW 20172/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-08","answerBy":"2025-01-23","answered":"2025-01-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when his Department will be publishing the next report on integrated education, as required under Section 10 of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerText":"The initial Section 10 report was published in April 2024 and in line with Section 10 (1)(b) of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 the next report will be published in April 2027 at the earliest.","answerHtml":"The initial Section 10 report was published in April 2024 and in line with Section 10 (1)(b) of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 the next report will be published in April 2027 at the earliest.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020172%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=422977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=422977"}},{"id":"421392","reference":"AQW 19756/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-11","answerBy":"2024-12-31","answered":"2025-01-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the proactive measures that his Department will take to deliver the Executive's agreed Housing Supply Strategy, particularly in relation to (i) water and sewerage; and (ii) public transport connectivity consideration within planning and road infrastructure.","answerText":"I allocated an additional £19.5m capital DEL during October Monitoring to NI Water, specifically to address constraints in wastewater infrastructure and to unlock capacity for housing connections. NI Water has advised me that the outcome of this investment is projected to deliver capacity for some 2300 new properties to connect to the water and sewerage infrastructure during this price control period. I have been working with Executive colleagues to increase wastewater investment and to focus on unlocking further wastewater capacity to enable properties to connect to the sewerage network during this price control period until 2027.\n\nThe Housing Supply Strategy highlights the importance of locating housing where it has convenient access to key services by walking, cycling and public transport. My officials are currently preparing a new suite of Transport Plans alongside the Councils’ preparation of their Local Development Plans. This integration of transport and land use planning, with accessibility analysis for both active and public transport, is key to achieving sustainable development.\n\nThe planning system plays an important enabling role in facilitating the delivery of housing. My Department’s Strategic Planning Policy Statement (the SPPS), requires councils, in taking forward their local development plans (LDPs), to facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality housing to meet the needs of everyone and promote more sustainable housing development within existing urban areas. This approach supports the need to maximise the use of existing infrastructure and services, and the creation of more balanced sustainable communities.\n\nMy Department also provides specialist safety information and transportation advice to the appropriate Planning Authority on road related matters associated with proposed development applications.\n\nMajor Road Infrastructure schemes are an important part of the work that is delivered by my Department as we seek to reduce journey times, increase reliability and improve road safety. They also offer opportunities to improve public transport connectivity within the region through the provision of improved access to high quality Park and Ride facilities extending travel choices for all sections of the community. My Department has identified a list of priority bus and rail-based Park and Ride sites and further potential sites will be considered within the new Transport Strategy and transport plans currently being developed.\n\nWhilst I am supportive of expanding our Park and Ride schemes where needed, the member will be aware that my Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years. As the capital budget for my Department in 2024/25 is less than required, available funding must be prioritised accordingly.","answerHtml":"I allocated an additional £19.5m capital DEL during October Monitoring to NI Water, specifically to address constraints in wastewater infrastructure and to unlock capacity for housing connections. NI Water has advised me that the outcome of this investment is projected to deliver capacity for some 2300 new properties to connect to the water and sewerage infrastructure during this price control period. I have been working with Executive colleagues to increase wastewater investment and to focus on unlocking further wastewater capacity to enable properties to connect to the sewerage network during this price control period until 2027.
The Housing Supply Strategy highlights the importance of locating housing where it has convenient access to key services by walking, cycling and public transport. My officials are currently preparing a new suite of Transport Plans alongside the Councils’ preparation of their Local Development Plans. This integration of transport and land use planning, with accessibility analysis for both active and public transport, is key to achieving sustainable development.
The planning system plays an important enabling role in facilitating the delivery of housing. My Department’s Strategic Planning Policy Statement (the SPPS), requires councils, in taking forward their local development plans (LDPs), to facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality housing to meet the needs of everyone and promote more sustainable housing development within existing urban areas. This approach supports the need to maximise the use of existing infrastructure and services, and the creation of more balanced sustainable communities.
My Department also provides specialist safety information and transportation advice to the appropriate Planning Authority on road related matters associated with proposed development applications.
Major Road Infrastructure schemes are an important part of the work that is delivered by my Department as we seek to reduce journey times, increase reliability and improve road safety. They also offer opportunities to improve public transport connectivity within the region through the provision of improved access to high quality Park and Ride facilities extending travel choices for all sections of the community. My Department has identified a list of priority bus and rail-based Park and Ride sites and further potential sites will be considered within the new Transport Strategy and transport plans currently being developed.
Whilst I am supportive of expanding our Park and Ride schemes where needed, the member will be aware that my Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years. As the capital budget for my Department in 2024/25 is less than required, available funding must be prioritised accordingly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019756%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=421392","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=421392"}},{"id":"421391","reference":"AQW 19755/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-11","answerBy":"2024-12-31","answered":"2024-12-20","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 detail the proactive measures that his Department will take to develop and deliver sustainable energy solutions to deliver climate change targets as part of the Executive's agreed Housing Supply Strategy.","answerText":"My department is fully committed to playing its part in developing and delivering long term sustainable energy solutions that support the achievement of climate change targets in the north while contributing to the Executive’s recently announced Housing Supply Strategy.\n\nThe regional Energy Strategy: Path to Net Zero Energy provides the policy framework to decarbonise energy and to mobilise the skills, technologies and behaviours required to transition our economy to net zero.\n\nIn this context, my department has recently published a consultation on Low carbon heat support for domestic properties, which will ultimately seek to introduce a support scheme like those operating in Britain and Ireland. This proposed policy initiative is intended to provide households with grants to support the installation of low carbon heating technologies, including heat pumps. In tandem with this approach, we are bringing forward policies to gather evidence on the production of Biomethane and liquid biofuels, to better understand their respective role in the energy transition. This represents a vital step forward in helping households transition to more sustainable and efficient heating systems.\n\nIn addition to support for low carbon heating, my department is also preparing a consultation on domestic energy efficiency support. This consultation will help to inform the design, rules, and guidance of future support that aims to address multiple priorities, including support industry growth, reducing energy bills, and cutting carbon emissions through enabling the transition to low carbon heat.\n\nIn the interim, ahead of any proposed support scheme, my department will continue to work collaboratively with a range of local partners to leverage and promote existing financial support mechanisms, for heating and energy efficiency, that are already available through the Utility Regulator’s NISEP Scheme.\n\nTo support the transition to sustainable energy in housing, we are investing in skills development and innovation to build the workforce needed for renewable energy and construction technologies. This ensures long-term sustainability and growth in the green economy while developing initiatives to encourage growth of the local industry as well as developing an appropriate pipeline of a highly skilled and diverse workforce.\n\nAs we transition to net zero, we are mindful of the need to protect consumers from undue financial burdens and to ensure that these solutions are sustainable and equitable, delivering long-term benefits to residents while meeting our climate obligations. Measures such as supporting affordable energy pricing, targeted financial assistance for low-income households, and ensuring ‘just energy transition principles’ are central to our approach.\n\nMy officials will continue to work collaboratively across government, the private sector, and the community to deliver on these commitments.","answerHtml":"My department is fully committed to playing its part in developing and delivering long term sustainable energy solutions that support the achievement of climate change targets in the north while contributing to the Executive’s recently announced Housing Supply Strategy.
The regional Energy Strategy: Path to Net Zero Energy provides the policy framework to decarbonise energy and to mobilise the skills, technologies and behaviours required to transition our economy to net zero.
In this context, my department has recently published a consultation on Low carbon heat support for domestic properties, which will ultimately seek to introduce a support scheme like those operating in Britain and Ireland. This proposed policy initiative is intended to provide households with grants to support the installation of low carbon heating technologies, including heat pumps. In tandem with this approach, we are bringing forward policies to gather evidence on the production of Biomethane and liquid biofuels, to better understand their respective role in the energy transition. This represents a vital step forward in helping households transition to more sustainable and efficient heating systems.
In addition to support for low carbon heating, my department is also preparing a consultation on domestic energy efficiency support. This consultation will help to inform the design, rules, and guidance of future support that aims to address multiple priorities, including support industry growth, reducing energy bills, and cutting carbon emissions through enabling the transition to low carbon heat.
In the interim, ahead of any proposed support scheme, my department will continue to work collaboratively with a range of local partners to leverage and promote existing financial support mechanisms, for heating and energy efficiency, that are already available through the Utility Regulator’s NISEP Scheme.
To support the transition to sustainable energy in housing, we are investing in skills development and innovation to build the workforce needed for renewable energy and construction technologies. This ensures long-term sustainability and growth in the green economy while developing initiatives to encourage growth of the local industry as well as developing an appropriate pipeline of a highly skilled and diverse workforce.
As we transition to net zero, we are mindful of the need to protect consumers from undue financial burdens and to ensure that these solutions are sustainable and equitable, delivering long-term benefits to residents while meeting our climate obligations. Measures such as supporting affordable energy pricing, targeted financial assistance for low-income households, and ensuring ‘just energy transition principles’ are central to our approach.
My officials will continue to work collaboratively across government, the private sector, and the community to deliver on these commitments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019755%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=421391","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=421391"}},{"id":"421390","reference":"AQW 19754/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-11","answerBy":"2024-12-31","answered":"2024-12-20","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 detail the proactive measures his Department will take to develop and deliver a sustainable supply chain of construction materials with industry partners to support the Executive's agreed Housing Supply Strategy.","answerText":"Invest NI provides a range of specialist supply chain advisory and financial support to companies across the north. This includes the construction materials supply chain. The support helps businesses build resilience and capability into their supply chain and develop their supply-chain function to enhance value, reduce risk, improve their competitive advantage and support development of a wider supply chain ecosystem in the north.\n\nThe Supply Chain Resilience and Development Service (SCRDS) helps companies identify supply chain risks, opportunities and capability development. Depending on business circumstances, financial assistance is also available towards the salary costs of an employee dedicated to supply chain development.\n\nOperational Excellence (OPEX) provides support to embed principles, tools and techniques to address areas such as waste identification and elimination, practical problem solving, daily continuous improvement, and workflow improvements.\n\nAdditional support is available to assist companies to upskill and reskill existing staff; facilitate collaboration with partners to develop new business models, address challenges and exploit new opportunities; and enhance leadership capability.","answerHtml":"Invest NI provides a range of specialist supply chain advisory and financial support to companies across the north. This includes the construction materials supply chain. The support helps businesses build resilience and capability into their supply chain and develop their supply-chain function to enhance value, reduce risk, improve their competitive advantage and support development of a wider supply chain ecosystem in the north.
The Supply Chain Resilience and Development Service (SCRDS) helps companies identify supply chain risks, opportunities and capability development. Depending on business circumstances, financial assistance is also available towards the salary costs of an employee dedicated to supply chain development.
Operational Excellence (OPEX) provides support to embed principles, tools and techniques to address areas such as waste identification and elimination, practical problem solving, daily continuous improvement, and workflow improvements.
Additional support is available to assist companies to upskill and reskill existing staff; facilitate collaboration with partners to develop new business models, address challenges and exploit new opportunities; and enhance leadership capability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019754%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=421390","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=421390"}},{"id":"421234","reference":"AQW 19663/22-27","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 for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the proactive measures that will be taken by his Department to develop and deliver skills and jobs required to deliver the Executive's agreed Housing Supply Strategy.","answerText":"My department delivers a range of training interventions to support the construction sector. This includes the ApprenticeshipsNI programme which offers vocational qualifications in a range of trade occupations including electrical, plumbing and construction. In addition, Higher Level Apprenticeships offer qualifications at Level 4 and above in the areas of Construction, Planning, Architecture and the Built Environment.\n\nA new Skill Up programme is available as part of my Departments Skills Agenda. The programme has 50 free courses related to Construction and Green Skills. These accredited courses range from Level 2 to Level 7 and are available through the six Further Education Colleges, the Open University, Queens University and the University of Ulster.","answerHtml":"My department delivers a range of training interventions to support the construction sector. This includes the ApprenticeshipsNI programme which offers vocational qualifications in a range of trade occupations including electrical, plumbing and construction. In addition, Higher Level Apprenticeships offer qualifications at Level 4 and above in the areas of Construction, Planning, Architecture and the Built Environment.
A new Skill Up programme is available as part of my Departments Skills Agenda. The programme has 50 free courses related to Construction and Green Skills. These accredited courses range from Level 2 to Level 7 and are available through the six Further Education Colleges, the Open University, Queens University and the University of Ulster.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019663%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=421234","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=421234"}},{"id":"421233","reference":"AQW 19662/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-10","answerBy":"2024-12-30","answered":"2024-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the actions she will be delivering in the year ahead to meet the requirements relating to data sharing, particularly public land availability, as part of the Executive's agreed Housing Supply Strategy.","answerText":"Land & Property Services (LPS), within my department, has been developing a centrally held database - The Government Land and Property Register (GLPR) – to record all government owned and/or occupied land and property assets in Northern Ireland.\n\nAs of March 2024, 119,756 Hectares of assets has been identified and mapped as part of the ongoing GLPR project. This work is scheduled to continue into 2025.\n\nThe data within the GLPR is freely available to all government departments and can be used by departments to assist in identifying public land availability, as part of the Executive's agreed Housing Supply Strategy.\n\nAlso, within LPS, Ordnance Survey (OSNI) is supporting the Housing Led Regeneration Subgroup and the Rural Housing Steering Group by providing geospatial information on publicly owned land and property for further analysis by the groups to ascertain suitability for housing development. Both OSNI and the GLPR team are represented on these groups. There is work ongoing, by OSNI, to develop an internal application (online map viewer) where Departments can better access and view information on publicly owned land.","answerHtml":"Land & Property Services (LPS), within my department, has been developing a centrally held database - The Government Land and Property Register (GLPR) – to record all government owned and/or occupied land and property assets in Northern Ireland.
As of March 2024, 119,756 Hectares of assets has been identified and mapped as part of the ongoing GLPR project. This work is scheduled to continue into 2025.
The data within the GLPR is freely available to all government departments and can be used by departments to assist in identifying public land availability, as part of the Executive's agreed Housing Supply Strategy.
Also, within LPS, Ordnance Survey (OSNI) is supporting the Housing Led Regeneration Subgroup and the Rural Housing Steering Group by providing geospatial information on publicly owned land and property for further analysis by the groups to ascertain suitability for housing development. Both OSNI and the GLPR team are represented on these groups. There is work ongoing, by OSNI, to develop an internal application (online map viewer) where Departments can better access and view information on publicly owned land.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019662%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=421233","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=421233"}},{"id":"421232","reference":"AQW 19661/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-10","answerBy":"2024-12-30","answered":"2025-01-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the progress being made to review and update planning legislation and regulations to support the delivery of the Executive's agreed Housing Supply Strategy.","answerText":"My Department has been working collectively with local government and other stakeholders to improve the planning system through the Planning Improvement Programme (PIP).\n\nThe PIP has and will deliver a number of changes to planning legislation which will enhance and make a tangible difference to the planning system here in the North. These changes include the introduction of legislation to enable council planning authorities to introduce statutory validation checklists (Statutory Rule has been made and will come into operation on 1 April 2025) which will improve the quality of planning applications entering the system, and in turn reduce the potential for delay through the application process. My Department is also conducting a review of the Planning (Development Management) Regulations (NI) 2015 to ensure that they are practical and appropriate to support current and future development trends, streamline the planning application process, and encourage greater participation in the planning process.\n\nI am acutely aware of the challenges around housing supply in the North and the importance that the planning system plays in helping to meet current and foreseeable housing needs. My Department will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure that we have a planning system that delivers the necessary socio-economic and environmental outcomes for our society.","answerHtml":"My Department has been working collectively with local government and other stakeholders to improve the planning system through the Planning Improvement Programme (PIP).
The PIP has and will deliver a number of changes to planning legislation which will enhance and make a tangible difference to the planning system here in the North. These changes include the introduction of legislation to enable council planning authorities to introduce statutory validation checklists (Statutory Rule has been made and will come into operation on 1 April 2025) which will improve the quality of planning applications entering the system, and in turn reduce the potential for delay through the application process. My Department is also conducting a review of the Planning (Development Management) Regulations (NI) 2015 to ensure that they are practical and appropriate to support current and future development trends, streamline the planning application process, and encourage greater participation in the planning process.
I am acutely aware of the challenges around housing supply in the North and the importance that the planning system plays in helping to meet current and foreseeable housing needs. My Department will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure that we have a planning system that delivers the necessary socio-economic and environmental outcomes for our society.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019661%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=421232","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=421232"}},{"id":"421231","reference":"AQW 19660/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-10","answerBy":"2024-12-30","answered":"2024-12-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether she intends to review the rates charged for vacant domestic properties as part of her rating policy review.","answerText":"I would draw the member’s attention to my Oral Ministerial Statement of Monday 9 December (Rating Policy – Strategic Roadmap):\n\nhttps://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/minister-finance-oral-statement-rating-policy-strategic-roadmap","answerHtml":"I would draw the member’s attention to my Oral Ministerial Statement of Monday 9 December (Rating Policy – Strategic Roadmap):
https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/minister-finance-oral-statement-rating-policy-strategic-roadmap
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019660%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=421231","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=421231"}},{"id":"421230","reference":"AQW 19659/22-27","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 Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether she is considering any review of rates relief for businesses that are registered as charities, but would not qualify for small business rates relief.","answerText":"I would draw the member’s attention to my Oral Ministerial Statement of Monday 9 December (Rating Policy – Strategic Roadmap):\n\nhttps://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/minister-finance-oral-statement-rating-policy-strategic-roadmap\n\nIn addition, under current rating legislation where a property is occupied by a charity, and is valued as being used for the objectives and purposes of that charity, then it will receive charitable exemption. Where this does not apply the occupier may be eligible for small business rate relief provided it falls below the NAV threshold and meets criteria for the scheme.","answerHtml":"I would draw the member’s attention to my Oral Ministerial Statement of Monday 9 December (Rating Policy – Strategic Roadmap):
https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/minister-finance-oral-statement-rating-policy-strategic-roadmap
In addition, under current rating legislation where a property is occupied by a charity, and is valued as being used for the objectives and purposes of that charity, then it will receive charitable exemption. Where this does not apply the occupier may be eligible for small business rate relief provided it falls below the NAV threshold and meets criteria for the scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019659%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=421230","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=421230"}},{"id":"420288","reference":"AQW 19240/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2024-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the process introduced into schools to ensure the Fair Employment (School Teachers) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 is being delivered; and (ii) where equality records for individual schools is published.","answerText":"To ensure the smooth implementation of the Fair Employment (School Teachers) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 a working group was established with management representatives from all of the education sectors.\n\nThis group worked in conjunction with the Equality Commission and guidance for schools was published with the support of Management Side of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee. The Equality Commission delivering a series of training webinars specifically on the recruitment and selection guidance. The target audience for the webinars was those school governors, principals, heads of departments involved in the recruitment and selection of school teachers.\n\nThe Chair of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC) management side wrote to all schools explaining the requirements for the implementation of the Fair Employment (School Teachers) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.\n\nThe Education Authority is responsible for preparing and submitting the annual monitoring return to the Equality Commission for teachers in controlled schools and CCMS is responsible for carrying out this function for teachers in Catholic maintained schools. All other schools with over ten staff are required to submit monitoring returns to the Equality Commission.\n\nThere is no requirement to publish equality records for individual schools.","answerHtml":"To ensure the smooth implementation of the Fair Employment (School Teachers) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 a working group was established with management representatives from all of the education sectors.
This group worked in conjunction with the Equality Commission and guidance for schools was published with the support of Management Side of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee. The Equality Commission delivering a series of training webinars specifically on the recruitment and selection guidance. The target audience for the webinars was those school governors, principals, heads of departments involved in the recruitment and selection of school teachers.
The Chair of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC) management side wrote to all schools explaining the requirements for the implementation of the Fair Employment (School Teachers) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.
The Education Authority is responsible for preparing and submitting the annual monitoring return to the Equality Commission for teachers in controlled schools and CCMS is responsible for carrying out this function for teachers in Catholic maintained schools. All other schools with over ten staff are required to submit monitoring returns to the Equality Commission.
There is no requirement to publish equality records for individual schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019240%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420288","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420288"}},{"id":"420287","reference":"AQW 19239/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2025-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any actions he is taking within his Department to deliver effective partnership working, as set down in the Concordat agreement, with community and voluntary sector providers for access to employment support and jobs for people with disabilities.","answerText":"The Department values partnership working with a wide range of stakeholders, including the community and voluntary sector, to provide access to employment support and jobs for people with disabilities.\n\nThis partnership working extends across co-production of a new Disability and Work Strategy; membership, commissioning and delivery across Labour Market Partnership structures; and delivery of programmes such as Workable (NI) and Access to Work (NI). There is also regular engagement across the sector on priority areas of concern or opportunity.","answerHtml":"The Department values partnership working with a wide range of stakeholders, including the community and voluntary sector, to provide access to employment support and jobs for people with disabilities.
This partnership working extends across co-production of a new Disability and Work Strategy; membership, commissioning and delivery across Labour Market Partnership structures; and delivery of programmes such as Workable (NI) and Access to Work (NI). There is also regular engagement across the sector on priority areas of concern or opportunity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019239%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420287","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420287"}},{"id":"420286","reference":"AQW 19238/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2025-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any discussions his Department has had with the Department for Infrastructure to address transport barriers to access to employment for people with disabilities, including how this will be addressed in his Disability and Employment Strategy.","answerText":"In developing the Disability Strategy and considering the needs of Deaf and disabled people, my Department is working with all Executive departments. Engagement with the Department for Infrastructure is ongoing and I can confirm that this will include consideration on how transport issues can be addressed.\n\nAdditionally, the Department continues to deliver the Access to Work (NI) Programme which supports disabled people to access employment, including travel to and from work.","answerHtml":"In developing the Disability Strategy and considering the needs of Deaf and disabled people, my Department is working with all Executive departments. Engagement with the Department for Infrastructure is ongoing and I can confirm that this will include consideration on how transport issues can be addressed.
Additionally, the Department continues to deliver the Access to Work (NI) Programme which supports disabled people to access employment, including travel to and from work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019238%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420286","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420286"}},{"id":"420285","reference":"AQW 19237/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2025-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any actions he is taking to introduce a Disability Confidence Scheme to encourage inclusive employment, similar to what is provided in Great Britain.","answerText":"My department’s draft Disability and Work Strategy contains an action, under a theme of ‘Supporting and Enabling Employers’, to explore a scheme for employers that grows their awareness of disability employment, and supports and enables implementation of best practice in relation to the recruitment and employment of disabled people.","answerHtml":"My department’s draft Disability and Work Strategy contains an action, under a theme of ‘Supporting and Enabling Employers’, to explore a scheme for employers that grows their awareness of disability employment, and supports and enables implementation of best practice in relation to the recruitment and employment of disabled people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019237%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420285","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420285"}},{"id":"420284","reference":"AQW 19236/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2025-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any action being taken to ensure disability awareness training is a requirement for employers in the Disability and Employment Strategy.","answerText":"The draft Disability and Work Strategy, under a Theme of Supporting and Enabling Employers, includes commitments and actions to address employer misconceptions, to build their awareness, and to support and enable implementation of best practice approaches to employing disabled people","answerHtml":"The draft Disability and Work Strategy, under a Theme of Supporting and Enabling Employers, includes commitments and actions to address employer misconceptions, to build their awareness, and to support and enable implementation of best practice approaches to employing disabled people
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019236%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420284","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420284"}},{"id":"420053","reference":"AQW 19139/22-27","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 Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any plans to introduce a regulatory framework or professional regulation for the operation of (i) property management companies; and (ii) letting agents.","answerText":"I have previously indicated that management companies must act in accordance with existing companies legislation, which falls outside the remit of my Department. However, I also recognise that shared property management also attracts my Department’s interest in substantive land law, and I have been keen to make progress in examining this issue.\n\nI have engaged with officials to ensure the appropriate expertise in this complex policy area is secured. Resource, has been identified and a study of the issues relating to the operation of property management companies and agents will shortly commence. I will consider the outcome of that work, which I have asked to be completed by Easter, before determining the way forward.\n\nIn relation to the regulation of letting agents, this is an area that also falls outside my remit and is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Communities.","answerHtml":"I have previously indicated that management companies must act in accordance with existing companies legislation, which falls outside the remit of my Department. However, I also recognise that shared property management also attracts my Department’s interest in substantive land law, and I have been keen to make progress in examining this issue.
I have engaged with officials to ensure the appropriate expertise in this complex policy area is secured. Resource, has been identified and a study of the issues relating to the operation of property management companies and agents will shortly commence. I will consider the outcome of that work, which I have asked to be completed by Easter, before determining the way forward.
In relation to the regulation of letting agents, this is an area that also falls outside my remit and is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Communities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019139%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420053","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420053"}},{"id":"420052","reference":"AQW 19138/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2025-01-06","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 detail any actions being taken to future-proof tourist accommodation provision by increasing the number of accessible beds that can be used by the aging customer and people with disabilities.","answerText":"Under the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (“the 1992 Order”), all visitor/tourist accommodation in the North must be certified by Tourism NI to legally operate. The scope of the 1992 Order, and Tourism NI’s Certification Scheme for Visitor Accommodation, is tightly defined, with Tourism NI’s role limited to inspecting each property to ensure that it meets a minimum standard of safety, cleanliness and the provision of facilities.\n\nOfficials in my Department are currently working with Tourism NI to review the certification scheme and its criteria for each of the existing eight statutory accommodation categories. Accessibility ratings are currently outside the scope of the accommodation certification scheme, with accessibility requirements in this area primarily sitting within building regulations. However, my Department and Tourism NI are looking to see if accessibility issues can be considered as part of the certification criteria review.\n\nAs part of this review process, we welcome additional proposals for changes to the certification regulations which can be considered in line with my Department’s remit, and once my Officials have finalised proposed amendments, it is our intention to publicly consult on these in the first half of 2025 to ensure that we get public and industry views on same.\n\nIn the meantime, Tourism NI continues to work proactively to encourage accommodation providers and other tourism businesses to be accessible and inclusive to all visitors. A series of industry webinars have been delivered, and a toolkit of useful information and advice is due to be launched in spring 2025. A range of online guidance is also available at https://www.tourismni.com/business-guidance/business-support/accessibility/.\n\nInformation on accessibility features is also displayed on individual business listings on the Tourism NI consumer website (Discover Northern Ireland) which can help visitors make an informed choice when deciding where to stay on their trip etc.","answerHtml":"Under the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (“the 1992 Order”), all visitor/tourist accommodation in the North must be certified by Tourism NI to legally operate. The scope of the 1992 Order, and Tourism NI’s Certification Scheme for Visitor Accommodation, is tightly defined, with Tourism NI’s role limited to inspecting each property to ensure that it meets a minimum standard of safety, cleanliness and the provision of facilities.
Officials in my Department are currently working with Tourism NI to review the certification scheme and its criteria for each of the existing eight statutory accommodation categories. Accessibility ratings are currently outside the scope of the accommodation certification scheme, with accessibility requirements in this area primarily sitting within building regulations. However, my Department and Tourism NI are looking to see if accessibility issues can be considered as part of the certification criteria review.
As part of this review process, we welcome additional proposals for changes to the certification regulations which can be considered in line with my Department’s remit, and once my Officials have finalised proposed amendments, it is our intention to publicly consult on these in the first half of 2025 to ensure that we get public and industry views on same.
In the meantime, Tourism NI continues to work proactively to encourage accommodation providers and other tourism businesses to be accessible and inclusive to all visitors. A series of industry webinars have been delivered, and a toolkit of useful information and advice is due to be launched in spring 2025. A range of online guidance is also available at https://www.tourismni.com/business-guidance/business-support/accessibility/.
Information on accessibility features is also displayed on individual business listings on the Tourism NI consumer website (Discover Northern Ireland) which can help visitors make an informed choice when deciding where to stay on their trip etc.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019138%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420052","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420052"}},{"id":"420051","reference":"AQW 19137/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2024-12-09","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 he will update the accessibility rating of tourism accommodation to include the necessary provision of adjustable mobility beds.","answerText":"Under the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (“the 1992 Order”), all visitor/tourist accommodation in the North must be certified by Tourism NI to legally operate. The scope of the 1992 Order, and Tourism NI’s Certification Scheme for Visitor Accommodation, is tightly defined, with Tourism NI’s role limited to inspecting each property to ensure that it meets a minimum standard of safety, cleanliness and the provision of facilities.\n\nOfficials in my Department are currently working with Tourism NI to review the certification scheme and its criteria for each of the existing eight statutory accommodation categories. Accessibility ratings are currently outside the scope of the accommodation certification scheme, with accessibility requirements in this area primarily sitting within building regulations. However, my Department and Tourism NI are looking to see if accessibility issues can be considered as part of the certification criteria review.\n\nAs part of this review process, we welcome additional proposals for changes to the certification regulations which can be considered in line with my Department’s remit, and once my Officials have finalised proposed amendments, it is our intention to publicly consult on these in the first half of 2025 to ensure that we get public and industry views on same.\n\nIn the meantime, Tourism NI continues to work proactively to encourage accommodation providers and other tourism businesses to be accessible and inclusive to all visitors. A series of industry webinars have been delivered, and a toolkit of useful information and advice is due to be launched in spring 2025. A range of online guidance is also available at https://www.tourismni.com/business-guidance/business-support/accessibility/.\n\nInformation on accessibility features is also displayed on individual business listings on the Tourism NI consumer website (Discover Northern Ireland) which can help visitors make an informed choice when deciding where to stay on their trip etc.","answerHtml":"Under the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (“the 1992 Order”), all visitor/tourist accommodation in the North must be certified by Tourism NI to legally operate. The scope of the 1992 Order, and Tourism NI’s Certification Scheme for Visitor Accommodation, is tightly defined, with Tourism NI’s role limited to inspecting each property to ensure that it meets a minimum standard of safety, cleanliness and the provision of facilities.
Officials in my Department are currently working with Tourism NI to review the certification scheme and its criteria for each of the existing eight statutory accommodation categories. Accessibility ratings are currently outside the scope of the accommodation certification scheme, with accessibility requirements in this area primarily sitting within building regulations. However, my Department and Tourism NI are looking to see if accessibility issues can be considered as part of the certification criteria review.
As part of this review process, we welcome additional proposals for changes to the certification regulations which can be considered in line with my Department’s remit, and once my Officials have finalised proposed amendments, it is our intention to publicly consult on these in the first half of 2025 to ensure that we get public and industry views on same.
In the meantime, Tourism NI continues to work proactively to encourage accommodation providers and other tourism businesses to be accessible and inclusive to all visitors. A series of industry webinars have been delivered, and a toolkit of useful information and advice is due to be launched in spring 2025. A range of online guidance is also available at https://www.tourismni.com/business-guidance/business-support/accessibility/.
Information on accessibility features is also displayed on individual business listings on the Tourism NI consumer website (Discover Northern Ireland) which can help visitors make an informed choice when deciding where to stay on their trip etc.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019137%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420051","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420051"}},{"id":"420050","reference":"AQW 19136/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2024-12-10","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 detail the actions his Department is taking to address the shortage of skills in construction, specifically skills related to retrofitting and passive house type new builds.","answerText":"My Department, in collaboration with the Green Skills Delivery Group, will launch the Green Skills Action Plan in early 2025. This plan will seek to address the skills shortages required to reduce our carbon emissions.\n\nDomestic low carbon technologies and energy efficiency has been identified as a priority area within the Plan and work has already commenced to develop new retrofitting courses.\n\nCourses in this area are available to SME's through the Department's Skills Focus programme. I would encourage employers, within the construction sector, to engage with their local FE college to avail of these opportunities.\n\nIn addition, several free retrofitting courses, including passive house, are already available through the Skill Up programme.\n\nCITBNI, an NDPB of the Department, is also active in this space and has delivered training courses, awareness sessions and business improvement events in energy efficiency and the wider green skills area.\n\nThe construction sector will play a significant role in the reduction of carbon emissions and my Department, through its range of programmes will continue to address the skills need of this important sector.","answerHtml":"My Department, in collaboration with the Green Skills Delivery Group, will launch the Green Skills Action Plan in early 2025. This plan will seek to address the skills shortages required to reduce our carbon emissions.
Domestic low carbon technologies and energy efficiency has been identified as a priority area within the Plan and work has already commenced to develop new retrofitting courses.
Courses in this area are available to SME's through the Department's Skills Focus programme. I would encourage employers, within the construction sector, to engage with their local FE college to avail of these opportunities.
In addition, several free retrofitting courses, including passive house, are already available through the Skill Up programme.
CITBNI, an NDPB of the Department, is also active in this space and has delivered training courses, awareness sessions and business improvement events in energy efficiency and the wider green skills area.
The construction sector will play a significant role in the reduction of carbon emissions and my Department, through its range of programmes will continue to address the skills need of this important sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019136%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420050","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420050"}},{"id":"420049","reference":"AQW 19135/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2024-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how he is working with the Minister for Communities to create sustainable jobs for people with disabilities and to support employers to provide those jobs.","answerText":"Whilst the Department for Communities (DfC) has policy responsibility for employment, my department has a significant contribution to make through our skills and education remit.\n\nDfC is currently developing a Disability and Work Strategy which will aim to improve employment outcomes for disabled people and people with health conditions. The scope of the Strategy includes those who are not currently active in the labour market, those who are already in work, and young disabled people aged 14-19 who will transition out of educational settings.\n\nSince 2021, my officials have been working closely with their DfC colleagues in the development of the draft Strategy, to ensure that Department for the Economy commitments and contributions are reflected.\n\nMy department also works with DfC to support individuals into employment through the Labour Market Partnerships, where officials from my Skills team and Careers Service are represented.\n\nImproving support for young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN) is a priority in my Business Plan and the Executive’s draft Programme for Government. I have tasked my officials with scoping the existing provision and providing me with options to improve access and outcomes for our young people with SEN.\n\nMy department, along with the departments for Education, Health, and Communities has submitted a bid to the Interim Transformation Fund, aimed at strengthening skills and training provision and support for young people with SEN.\n\nMy department also funds the Labour Relations Agency which provides an advice, guidance and early conciliation service for employers and their employees. This includes an employment document toolkit resource to assist employers in the drafting of workplace policies.","answerHtml":"Whilst the Department for Communities (DfC) has policy responsibility for employment, my department has a significant contribution to make through our skills and education remit.
DfC is currently developing a Disability and Work Strategy which will aim to improve employment outcomes for disabled people and people with health conditions. The scope of the Strategy includes those who are not currently active in the labour market, those who are already in work, and young disabled people aged 14-19 who will transition out of educational settings.
Since 2021, my officials have been working closely with their DfC colleagues in the development of the draft Strategy, to ensure that Department for the Economy commitments and contributions are reflected.
My department also works with DfC to support individuals into employment through the Labour Market Partnerships, where officials from my Skills team and Careers Service are represented.
Improving support for young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN) is a priority in my Business Plan and the Executive’s draft Programme for Government. I have tasked my officials with scoping the existing provision and providing me with options to improve access and outcomes for our young people with SEN.
My department, along with the departments for Education, Health, and Communities has submitted a bid to the Interim Transformation Fund, aimed at strengthening skills and training provision and support for young people with SEN.
My department also funds the Labour Relations Agency which provides an advice, guidance and early conciliation service for employers and their employees. This includes an employment document toolkit resource to assist employers in the drafting of workplace policies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019135%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420049","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420049"}},{"id":"419805","reference":"AQW 19059/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-29","answerBy":"2024-12-16","answered":"2025-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following the publication of the Northern Ireland Housing Bulletin July - September 2024, to detail the number of individuals (i) currently on the social housing waiting list; (ii) that have Full Duty Applicant status and homelessness status, broken down by (a) age; (b) household type; and (c) local government area.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 19059/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 19059/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019059%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419805","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419805"}},{"id":"419052","reference":"AQW 18747/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-25","answerBy":"2024-12-10","answered":"2024-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission why successor arrangements for the Independent Financial Review Panel, tasked to review members' pay, have not been established.","answerText":"Further to AQW 15535/22-27, the Assembly Commission is currently considering introduction of the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill.","answerHtml":"Further to AQW 15535/22-27, the Assembly Commission is currently considering introduction of the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018747%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419052","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419052"}},{"id":"419051","reference":"AQW 18746/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-25","answerBy":"2024-12-10","answered":"2024-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission (i) whether an MLA can retain and use their current Assembly issued printer for the constituency office; and (ii) whether an MLA can buy toner and a printer from another constituency office that is moving to use a new printer.","answerText":"MLAs may retain and use the existing Assembly Commission-issued printer provided for their constituency office, until such time as a new Assembly Members expenses determination is published by the Assembly Commission, allowing for an appropriate transition period to the new printer arrangements.\n\nIn relation to the purchase of printers, an MLA cannot buy an Assembly Commission-issued printer from another MLA, as the printer is the property of the Assembly Commission. While it is possible for MLAs to buy toner from another MLA, the process for doing so should be agreed with the Finance Office. MLAs can however return unused and unopened toners to Office Resources for a refund.","answerHtml":"MLAs may retain and use the existing Assembly Commission-issued printer provided for their constituency office, until such time as a new Assembly Members expenses determination is published by the Assembly Commission, allowing for an appropriate transition period to the new printer arrangements.
In relation to the purchase of printers, an MLA cannot buy an Assembly Commission-issued printer from another MLA, as the printer is the property of the Assembly Commission. While it is possible for MLAs to buy toner from another MLA, the process for doing so should be agreed with the Finance Office. MLAs can however return unused and unopened toners to Office Resources for a refund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018746%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419051","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419051"}},{"id":"419050","reference":"AQW 18745/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-25","answerBy":"2024-12-10","answered":"2024-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to detail (i) the policy in relation to the use of the Members' Bar; and (ii) whether changes have been made to allow staff, MPs or visitors to access the area without being accompanied by an MLA.","answerText":"The Assembly Commission last reviewed the list of those eligible to access the Members’ Bar and Coffee Lounge on 7 May 2013.\n\nThe list agreed by the Assembly Commission at that time (provided below) included that Northern Ireland based Members of either house within the palace of Westminster and Assembly staff (Assembly Grade 4 and above) could access the Members’ Bar and Coffee Lounge without being accompanied by an MLA.\n\nI provide the list agreed by the Assembly Commission on 7 May 2013 below, which has not been changed since that time.\n\nMembers\n\nHead of Northern Ireland Civil Service and Permanent Secretaries\n\nAssembly Commission Staff (AG4 and above)\n\nAttorney General\n\nSolicitor to Attorney General\n\nNorthern Ireland Assembly Commissioner for Standards\n\nParty Nominated Users (Each Party may nominate one member of their permanent staff. Larger parties of 12 MLAs or more may nominate an additional member of their permanent staff)\n\nSpecial Advisers\n\nNorthern Ireland based Members of either house within the palace of Westminster (and/or European Parliament – this is no longer relevant)\n\nComptroller and Auditor General and Audit Manager/Public Accounts Committee Liaison\n\nIndependent Financial Review Panel Members\n\nChair and Members of Assembly Commission Audit and Risk Committee\n\nNorthern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman and Deputy\n\nDepartmental Solicitor\n\nFirst Legislative Counsel\n\nAccompanied guests of the above","answerHtml":"The Assembly Commission last reviewed the list of those eligible to access the Members’ Bar and Coffee Lounge on 7 May 2013.
The list agreed by the Assembly Commission at that time (provided below) included that Northern Ireland based Members of either house within the palace of Westminster and Assembly staff (Assembly Grade 4 and above) could access the Members’ Bar and Coffee Lounge without being accompanied by an MLA.
I provide the list agreed by the Assembly Commission on 7 May 2013 below, which has not been changed since that time.
Members
Head of Northern Ireland Civil Service and Permanent Secretaries
Assembly Commission Staff (AG4 and above)
Attorney General
Solicitor to Attorney General
Northern Ireland Assembly Commissioner for Standards
Party Nominated Users (Each Party may nominate one member of their permanent staff. Larger parties of 12 MLAs or more may nominate an additional member of their permanent staff)
Special Advisers
Northern Ireland based Members of either house within the palace of Westminster (and/or European Parliament – this is no longer relevant)
Comptroller and Auditor General and Audit Manager/Public Accounts Committee Liaison
Independent Financial Review Panel Members
Chair and Members of Assembly Commission Audit and Risk Committee
Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman and Deputy
Departmental Solicitor
First Legislative Counsel
Accompanied guests of the above
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018745%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419050","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419050"}},{"id":"419049","reference":"AQW 18744/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-25","answerBy":"2024-12-10","answered":"2025-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether additional support will be provided to the Housing Executive to ensure it can meet its statutory duty to provide emergency homes, given the pressure over recent days when the Housing Executive was concerned that it had reached full capacity of available emergency accommodation.","answerText":"Discussions have been ongoing with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, who strongly refute comments around their failing in their statutory duty to homeless presenters recently.\n\nFollowing the October monitoring round, I have provided an additional £6.7m to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to prevent the risk of homeless service closures and ensure statutory obligations can continue to be met.","answerHtml":"Discussions have been ongoing with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, who strongly refute comments around their failing in their statutory duty to homeless presenters recently.
Following the October monitoring round, I have provided an additional £6.7m to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to prevent the risk of homeless service closures and ensure statutory obligations can continue to be met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018744%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419049","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419049"}},{"id":"418487","reference":"AQW 18514/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-20","answerBy":"2024-12-05","answered":"2024-12-16","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 any discussions he has had with the Minister for the Economy on the recommendations for short-term lets and Airbnbs.","answerText":"As part of the work to finalise the Housing Supply Strategy, I met with the Minister for the Economy on 11 November to discuss the need for further collaboration on actions to address key issues for which DfE has a remit.\n\nThe issue of short-term lets/Airbnb’s was one of the issues raised, which may be considered as part of any future strategy implementation process.","answerHtml":"As part of the work to finalise the Housing Supply Strategy, I met with the Minister for the Economy on 11 November to discuss the need for further collaboration on actions to address key issues for which DfE has a remit.
The issue of short-term lets/Airbnb’s was one of the issues raised, which may be considered as part of any future strategy implementation process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018514%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418487","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418487"}},{"id":"418486","reference":"AQW 18513/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-20","answerBy":"2024-12-05","answered":"2024-11-28","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 detail any additional funding that will be available to support regulatory and environmental health functions in local authorities.","answerText":"My Department currently supports regulatory and environmental health functions across our District Councils, such as through the Local Air Quality Management Grant.\n\nHowever, at present, I do not have plans for the Department to further fund District Councils beyond what is currently available in the 2024/25 year.","answerHtml":"My Department currently supports regulatory and environmental health functions across our District Councils, such as through the Local Air Quality Management Grant.
However, at present, I do not have plans for the Department to further fund District Councils beyond what is currently available in the 2024/25 year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018513%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418486","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418486"}},{"id":"418125","reference":"AQW 18357/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-18","answerBy":"2024-11-26","answered":"2024-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in light of World Aids Day on 1 December 2024, to detail any actions he is taking to achieve the UNAIDS target of no new HIV diagnoses by 2030.","answerText":"While a specific target date has not been adopted by my Department, aiming to eliminate HIV transmission in Northern Ireland at the earliest possible stage continues to be a priority for my Department. The Sexual Health Action Plan, launched in November 2023, aims to co-ordinate the ongoing direction for sexual health improvement in Northern Ireland.\n\nWithin the Plan, striving to eliminate HIV is one of the seven strategic objectives, and a delivery group has been established to take forward work in this area. This group brings together policy leads, clinicians, health improvement leads and advocates from the community and voluntary sector.\n\nOne of the early actions of this delivery group was to explore Northern Ireland participation in the global Fast Track Cities initiative, which focuses on ending HIV transmission. I am very pleased that earlier this year, both Belfast City and Derry and Strabane District Councils signed up to this civic initiative, and I will be exploring how I might encourage other Councils to consider what they can do in their local areas to support HIV elimination.\n\nTo tackle HIV transmission and support those living with HIV to live well, a number of subgroups have been established through my Department’s Action Plan to lead on efforts to tackle stigma associated with HIV, explore testing opportunities and consider additional actions that can be taken to minimise late HIV diagnoses.\n\nAdditionally, in line with World Aids Day, the Public Health Agency is leading on communication efforts to strengthen public messaging around the importance of HIV testing, how to prevent transmission and the impact of engaging in effective HIV treatment.","answerHtml":"While a specific target date has not been adopted by my Department, aiming to eliminate HIV transmission in Northern Ireland at the earliest possible stage continues to be a priority for my Department. The Sexual Health Action Plan, launched in November 2023, aims to co-ordinate the ongoing direction for sexual health improvement in Northern Ireland.
Within the Plan, striving to eliminate HIV is one of the seven strategic objectives, and a delivery group has been established to take forward work in this area. This group brings together policy leads, clinicians, health improvement leads and advocates from the community and voluntary sector.
One of the early actions of this delivery group was to explore Northern Ireland participation in the global Fast Track Cities initiative, which focuses on ending HIV transmission. I am very pleased that earlier this year, both Belfast City and Derry and Strabane District Councils signed up to this civic initiative, and I will be exploring how I might encourage other Councils to consider what they can do in their local areas to support HIV elimination.
To tackle HIV transmission and support those living with HIV to live well, a number of subgroups have been established through my Department’s Action Plan to lead on efforts to tackle stigma associated with HIV, explore testing opportunities and consider additional actions that can be taken to minimise late HIV diagnoses.
Additionally, in line with World Aids Day, the Public Health Agency is leading on communication efforts to strengthen public messaging around the importance of HIV testing, how to prevent transmission and the impact of engaging in effective HIV treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018357%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418125","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418125"}},{"id":"418124","reference":"AQW 18356/22-27","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 any measures being taken to address the stigma associated with HIV, which can place a significant mental health burden on people living with the virus.","answerText":"The Sexual Health Action Plan, launched in November 2023, aims to co-ordinate the ongoing direction for sexual health improvement in Northern Ireland. One of the key objectives of the Action Plan is to ‘Strive to eliminate new HIV transmissions in Northern Ireland and support people living with HIV to live well’.\n\nDuring my address at the recent 29th Northern Ireland Regional Sexual Health Conference, I emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure that messaging around HIV and sexual health are consistent and widespread. Through the Sexual Health Action Plan, an overarching communications group has been established to deliver a programme of awareness raising activities, focused around four key annual events across sexual health and wellbeing. One of these events is World Aids Day on 1 December. The joint focus of messaging in Northern Ireland will be on striving to eliminate HIV transmission and tackling stigma. To raise awareness, a communications plan sets out a schedule for social media activity to encourage and maximise sharing, engagement and awareness on agreed campaign messages. A press release and communications toolkit have also been developed and disseminated via stakeholders.\n\nAlthough HIV treatment has come a long way over the years, fear and misinformation remain prevalent in our society. It is vital that public health messaging is consistent across the region to address misconceptions, and there is more to do in this space. As part of the Sexual Health Action Plan, a delivery group has been established to focus on tackling the transmission of HIV and sexually transmitted infections. The group brings together policy leads, clinicians, health improvement leads and advocates from the community and voluntary sector. Within this, a subgroup has been set up to specifically consider how stigma can be measured and addressed.","answerHtml":"The Sexual Health Action Plan, launched in November 2023, aims to co-ordinate the ongoing direction for sexual health improvement in Northern Ireland. One of the key objectives of the Action Plan is to ‘Strive to eliminate new HIV transmissions in Northern Ireland and support people living with HIV to live well’.
During my address at the recent 29th Northern Ireland Regional Sexual Health Conference, I emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure that messaging around HIV and sexual health are consistent and widespread. Through the Sexual Health Action Plan, an overarching communications group has been established to deliver a programme of awareness raising activities, focused around four key annual events across sexual health and wellbeing. One of these events is World Aids Day on 1 December. The joint focus of messaging in Northern Ireland will be on striving to eliminate HIV transmission and tackling stigma. To raise awareness, a communications plan sets out a schedule for social media activity to encourage and maximise sharing, engagement and awareness on agreed campaign messages. A press release and communications toolkit have also been developed and disseminated via stakeholders.
Although HIV treatment has come a long way over the years, fear and misinformation remain prevalent in our society. It is vital that public health messaging is consistent across the region to address misconceptions, and there is more to do in this space. As part of the Sexual Health Action Plan, a delivery group has been established to focus on tackling the transmission of HIV and sexually transmitted infections. The group brings together policy leads, clinicians, health improvement leads and advocates from the community and voluntary sector. Within this, a subgroup has been set up to specifically consider how stigma can be measured and addressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018356%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418124","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418124"}},{"id":"418123","reference":"AQW 18355/22-27","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, in relation to his commitment to prevention, to detail his plans to invest in HIV awareness campaigns that could reduce the long-term cost burden on the NHS.","answerText":"The Sexual Health Action Plan, launched in November 2023, aims to co-ordinate the ongoing direction for sexual health improvement in Northern Ireland. One of the key objectives of the Action Plan is to ‘Strive to eliminate new HIV transmissions in Northern Ireland and support people living with HIV to live well’.\n\nDuring my address at the recent 29th Northern Ireland Regional Sexual Health Conference, I emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure that messaging around HIV and sexual health are consistent and widespread. Through the Sexual Health Action Plan, an overarching communications group has been established to deliver a programme of awareness raising activities, focused around four key annual events across sexual health and wellbeing. One of these events is World Aids Day on 1 December. The joint focus of messaging in Northern Ireland will be on striving to eliminate HIV transmission and tackling stigma. To raise awareness, a communications plan sets out a schedule for social media activity to encourage and maximise sharing, engagement and awareness on agreed campaign messages. A press release and communications toolkit have also been developed and disseminated via stakeholders.\n\nAlthough HIV treatment has come a long way over the years, fear and misinformation remain prevalent in our society. It is vital that public health messaging is consistent across the region to address misconceptions, and there is more to do in this space. As part of the Sexual Health Action Plan, a delivery group has been established to focus on tackling the transmission of HIV and sexually transmitted infections. The group brings together policy leads, clinicians, health improvement leads and advocates from the community and voluntary sector. Within this, a subgroup has been set up to specifically consider how stigma can be measured and addressed.","answerHtml":"The Sexual Health Action Plan, launched in November 2023, aims to co-ordinate the ongoing direction for sexual health improvement in Northern Ireland. One of the key objectives of the Action Plan is to ‘Strive to eliminate new HIV transmissions in Northern Ireland and support people living with HIV to live well’.
During my address at the recent 29th Northern Ireland Regional Sexual Health Conference, I emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure that messaging around HIV and sexual health are consistent and widespread. Through the Sexual Health Action Plan, an overarching communications group has been established to deliver a programme of awareness raising activities, focused around four key annual events across sexual health and wellbeing. One of these events is World Aids Day on 1 December. The joint focus of messaging in Northern Ireland will be on striving to eliminate HIV transmission and tackling stigma. To raise awareness, a communications plan sets out a schedule for social media activity to encourage and maximise sharing, engagement and awareness on agreed campaign messages. A press release and communications toolkit have also been developed and disseminated via stakeholders.
Although HIV treatment has come a long way over the years, fear and misinformation remain prevalent in our society. It is vital that public health messaging is consistent across the region to address misconceptions, and there is more to do in this space. As part of the Sexual Health Action Plan, a delivery group has been established to focus on tackling the transmission of HIV and sexually transmitted infections. The group brings together policy leads, clinicians, health improvement leads and advocates from the community and voluntary sector. Within this, a subgroup has been set up to specifically consider how stigma can be measured and addressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018355%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418123"}},{"id":"417495","reference":"AQW 18067/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-12","answerBy":"2024-11-27","answered":"2024-12-03","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 a time frame for the enactment of section 7 of the Private Tenancies Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerText":"I have instructed my officials to take forward the necessary work to commence the power to restrict the frequency of rent increases to once in any 12-month period, with 3 months notice, as permitted by Section 7 of the Private Tenancies Act. I expect to commence this power early next year.","answerHtml":"I have instructed my officials to take forward the necessary work to commence the power to restrict the frequency of rent increases to once in any 12-month period, with 3 months notice, as permitted by Section 7 of the Private Tenancies Act. I expect to commence this power early next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018067%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=417495","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=417495"}},{"id":"417248","reference":"AQW 17971/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-11","answerBy":"2024-11-26","answered":"2024-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for a breakdown of the (i) actions; (ii) timetable; and (iii) staff resource investment to ensure his Department is fulfilling its statutory duties as outlined in the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, in each year since 2022.","answerText":"Since 2022, my Department has undertaken a number of actions to meet the statutory duties set out in the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. These actions are set out in the table below. Notably, the Department has, as required by the Act, published a Section 10 Report on the delivery of Integrated Education outlining how it has fulfilled its duties under the Act since its passage through the Assembly.\n\nIn terms of staff resources, the Integrated Education Act Implementation Team was established within the Department to take forward implementation of the Act and its associated duties. It is of course supported by other policy teams, including the designated Irish Medium and Integrated Education Team, and supported by the Integrated Education implementation governance structure of the Steering and Working Groups.\n\nMy Department also provides funding in excess of £600K per annum to the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education and continues to work with the Education Authority and ARK to investigate demand for Integrated Education.\n\nI also note the recently announced £730,000 financial commitment to the Integrated sector from the Northern Ireland Office to support ongoing work to develop Integrated Education.\n\nAction\tDate\nResourced departmental Integrated Education Act Implementation Team\tOctober 2022\nPublished Strategy for Integrated Education\tApril 2023\nIntegrated Education Action Plan Consultation\tLaunched August 2023 – closed November 2023\nPublished Section 10 Report\tApril 2024\nDevelopment of Admissions portal survey\tOctober 2024\nLetter to S3 Bodies issued with a revised strategy and action plan ‘Vision 2030’ – for consideration and comments\tComments from S3 bodies by Nov 2024\nFuture Actions\nConsideration of comments from S3 bodies\tDecember 2024\nFinalise and publish revised Vision 2030\tJanuary 2025\nParent survey via School admission portal\tFebruary/March 2024\nPublic consultation on Vison 2030 - Integrated Education Action Plan\tCompleted by end March 2025\nReview of public consultation on Integrated Education Action Plan\tApril 2025\nPrepare and publish a report on demand for Integrated Education\tMay 2025","answerHtml":"Since 2022, my Department has undertaken a number of actions to meet the statutory duties set out in the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. These actions are set out in the table below. Notably, the Department has, as required by the Act, published a Section 10 Report on the delivery of Integrated Education outlining how it has fulfilled its duties under the Act since its passage through the Assembly.
In terms of staff resources, the Integrated Education Act Implementation Team was established within the Department to take forward implementation of the Act and its associated duties. It is of course supported by other policy teams, including the designated Irish Medium and Integrated Education Team, and supported by the Integrated Education implementation governance structure of the Steering and Working Groups.
My Department also provides funding in excess of £600K per annum to the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education and continues to work with the Education Authority and ARK to investigate demand for Integrated Education.
I also note the recently announced £730,000 financial commitment to the Integrated sector from the Northern Ireland Office to support ongoing work to develop Integrated Education.
| Action | Date |
| Resourced departmental Integrated Education Act Implementation Team | October 2022 |
| Published Strategy for Integrated Education | April 2023 |
| Integrated Education Action Plan Consultation | Launched August 2023 – closed November 2023 |
| Published Section 10 Report | April 2024 |
| Development of Admissions portal survey | October 2024 |
| Letter to S3 Bodies issued with a revised strategy and action plan ‘Vision 2030’ – for consideration and comments | Comments from S3 bodies by Nov 2024 |
| Future Actions | |
| Consideration of comments from S3 bodies | December 2024 |
| Finalise and publish revised Vision 2030 | January 2025 |
| Parent survey via School admission portal | February/March 2024 |
| Public consultation on Vison 2030 - Integrated Education Action Plan | Completed by end March 2025 |
| Review of public consultation on Integrated Education Action Plan | April 2025 |
| Prepare and publish a report on demand for Integrated Education | May 2025 |
The duty to monitor, assess and aim to meet parental demand falls to the Department of Education (DE) and the Education Authority (EA) not the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE).
Section 4 of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 states -
4.—(1) In Article 64(1) of the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (Department’s duties in respect of integrated education) for “to encourage and facilitate” substitute “to encourage, facilitate and support”.
(2) In section 2 of the Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2014 (functions of Education Authority) after subsection (3) (Authority’s duties in respect of shared education) insert—
“(3A) It is a duty of the Authority (so far as its powers extend) to encourage, facilitate and support integrated education.”.
NICIE has been asked to undertake an engagement exercise in a number of localities where the Department has identified demand as part of their ongoing work programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017970%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=417247","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=417247"}},{"id":"417038","reference":"AQW 17879/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-08","answerBy":"2024-11-25","answered":"2024-12-02","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 that has been made of the amount of money his Department would save if the Help for Travel Cost scheme was updated to include people on Universal Credit, therefore removing the requirement to process HC1 forms.","answerText":"Help for travel costs is available through the Health Service Low Income Scheme (HS LIS) which is the responsibility of the Department of Health (DoH).\n\nTherefore, my department has not completed any assessment of the potential financial savings of including people on Universal Credit in the Scheme and removing the requirement to process HC1 forms.","answerHtml":"Help for travel costs is available through the Health Service Low Income Scheme (HS LIS) which is the responsibility of the Department of Health (DoH).
Therefore, my department has not completed any assessment of the potential financial savings of including people on Universal Credit in the Scheme and removing the requirement to process HC1 forms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017879%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=417038","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=417038"}},{"id":"417037","reference":"AQW 17878/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-08","answerBy":"2024-11-25","answered":"2024-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any financial assistance is available to enable children with disabilities to access in-patient dental treatment elsewhere in the UK or Ireland.","answerText":"The relevant process to enable all NI patients, not just children with disabilities, to access inpatient dental treatment elsewhere in the UK or Ireland is through the Strategic Planning and Performance Group’s (SPPG) Extra Contractual Referral (ECR) process.\n\nThe SPPG’s Extra Contractual Referral (ECR) process enables local Trust consultants to seek funding approval to transfer a named patient to a provider outside Northern Ireland. This applies in cases where there is requirement for assessment or treatment which the consultant considers necessary, but is not available in local health and social care facilities. This may be either because the treatment needed is of a specialist nature, or because there is a clinical reason why the local service is not appropriate.\n\nIt should be noted however that most inpatient dental treatments are available within Northern Ireland and most therefore, would not be eligible under the Extra Contractual Referral process.","answerHtml":"The relevant process to enable all NI patients, not just children with disabilities, to access inpatient dental treatment elsewhere in the UK or Ireland is through the Strategic Planning and Performance Group’s (SPPG) Extra Contractual Referral (ECR) process.
The SPPG’s Extra Contractual Referral (ECR) process enables local Trust consultants to seek funding approval to transfer a named patient to a provider outside Northern Ireland. This applies in cases where there is requirement for assessment or treatment which the consultant considers necessary, but is not available in local health and social care facilities. This may be either because the treatment needed is of a specialist nature, or because there is a clinical reason why the local service is not appropriate.
It should be noted however that most inpatient dental treatments are available within Northern Ireland and most therefore, would not be eligible under the Extra Contractual Referral process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017878%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=417037","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=417037"}},{"id":"417036","reference":"AQW 17877/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-08","answerBy":"2024-11-25","answered":"2024-11-25","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 children with disabilities awaiting in-patient dental treatment; and (ii) the average waiting time for in-patient dental services for children with disabilities, as of the end of October 2024, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Belfast Health and Social Care Trust is the only Trust in Northern Ireland to provide inpatient dental treatment for children with disabilities.\n\nBelfast Trust has advised that it has a waiting list for all paediatric general anaesthetic (GA) patients. This includes a mix of inpatient and day-cases. However, the waiting list is not broken down by disability/ absence of disability so it is unable to provide this information.\n\nBelfast Trust has advised that the average waiting time for all paediatric general anaesthetic (GA) patients at the end of October 2024 was 40 months. The waiting list is not broken down by disability/ absence of disability.","answerHtml":"Belfast Health and Social Care Trust is the only Trust in Northern Ireland to provide inpatient dental treatment for children with disabilities.
Belfast Trust has advised that it has a waiting list for all paediatric general anaesthetic (GA) patients. This includes a mix of inpatient and day-cases. However, the waiting list is not broken down by disability/ absence of disability so it is unable to provide this information.
Belfast Trust has advised that the average waiting time for all paediatric general anaesthetic (GA) patients at the end of October 2024 was 40 months. The waiting list is not broken down by disability/ absence of disability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017877%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=417036","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=417036"}},{"id":"417035","reference":"AQW 17876/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-08","answerBy":"2024-11-25","answered":"2024-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any actions being taken to reduce waiting times for children with learning disabilities, who are living in pain, to access in-patient dental treatment.","answerText":"The Community Dental Service specialises in providing dental care to patients who, for various reasons are not suitable for treatment in the primary care setting. For young children, those with additional needs or particularly complex cases, it may be necessary for the treatment to be take place under General Anaesthetic (GA). Some patients may require all or most of their dental care under GA.\n\nThe Community Dental Service (CDS) in all five Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts offer dental treatment under GA to children with additional needs. However, for those children with the most complex needs a GA Daycase in a district general hospital may not be suitable. Instead, for both patient safety and complexity of care reasons, a referral to the regional Paediatric Consultant-led service in BHSCT may be required.\n\nThe CDS operate a strict triage and prioritisation process which is based on clinical need. This ensures waiting times for acute patients are less than those for urgent patients as they are given a higher priority grading; those patients with a routine grading have the longest waiting times.\n\nThe CDS waiting lists for dental treatment under GA were severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and associated infection prevention and control restrictions. Regionally, in 2023-24, the number of children receiving dental treatment under GA was approximately 90% of the 2019-20 figure. Trusts currently report that the main barrier to achieving pre-pandemic levels of dental GA activity is theatre access and in particular a shortage of theatre nursing staff.\n\nThroughout the later stages of the pandemic some waiting list initiatives were undertaken by some of the Trust CDS teams. These included additional lists (including weekends), as well as a successful cross border initiative in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust for children requiring timely extraction of permanent teeth.\n\nAttempts to maximise the use of alternatives to GA are in place in some Trusts. These included the use of inhalation sedation (twilight sleep) and advanced sedation techniques (Penthrox). These approaches are administered in a dental surgery thereby overcoming the issue of lack of theatre availability.\n\nAnother method that has been successfully utilised by some Trusts is to have a GA team and patient list on standby to take advantage of any free theatre space that becomes available at short notice due to list cancellation by another specialty.\n\nThe Southern Health and Social Care Trust have also successfully changed their model of delivery of paediatric theatre services recently. They have trained a Paediatric Perioperative Nurse for the Paediatric theatres in Daisy Hill Hospital as well as undertaking international recruitment to increase the number of theatre nurses.\n\nLast year, my Department consulted upon the Oral Health Improvement Plans for children and older persons. This document made a number of strategic recommendations to prevent dental decay among children. If these recommendations were implemented it would be expected that over the next three to five years there would be a significant reduction in the need for dental treatment under general anaesthetic.","answerHtml":"The Community Dental Service specialises in providing dental care to patients who, for various reasons are not suitable for treatment in the primary care setting. For young children, those with additional needs or particularly complex cases, it may be necessary for the treatment to be take place under General Anaesthetic (GA). Some patients may require all or most of their dental care under GA.
The Community Dental Service (CDS) in all five Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts offer dental treatment under GA to children with additional needs. However, for those children with the most complex needs a GA Daycase in a district general hospital may not be suitable. Instead, for both patient safety and complexity of care reasons, a referral to the regional Paediatric Consultant-led service in BHSCT may be required.
The CDS operate a strict triage and prioritisation process which is based on clinical need. This ensures waiting times for acute patients are less than those for urgent patients as they are given a higher priority grading; those patients with a routine grading have the longest waiting times.
The CDS waiting lists for dental treatment under GA were severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and associated infection prevention and control restrictions. Regionally, in 2023-24, the number of children receiving dental treatment under GA was approximately 90% of the 2019-20 figure. Trusts currently report that the main barrier to achieving pre-pandemic levels of dental GA activity is theatre access and in particular a shortage of theatre nursing staff.
Throughout the later stages of the pandemic some waiting list initiatives were undertaken by some of the Trust CDS teams. These included additional lists (including weekends), as well as a successful cross border initiative in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust for children requiring timely extraction of permanent teeth.
Attempts to maximise the use of alternatives to GA are in place in some Trusts. These included the use of inhalation sedation (twilight sleep) and advanced sedation techniques (Penthrox). These approaches are administered in a dental surgery thereby overcoming the issue of lack of theatre availability.
Another method that has been successfully utilised by some Trusts is to have a GA team and patient list on standby to take advantage of any free theatre space that becomes available at short notice due to list cancellation by another specialty.
The Southern Health and Social Care Trust have also successfully changed their model of delivery of paediatric theatre services recently. They have trained a Paediatric Perioperative Nurse for the Paediatric theatres in Daisy Hill Hospital as well as undertaking international recruitment to increase the number of theatre nurses.
Last year, my Department consulted upon the Oral Health Improvement Plans for children and older persons. This document made a number of strategic recommendations to prevent dental decay among children. If these recommendations were implemented it would be expected that over the next three to five years there would be a significant reduction in the need for dental treatment under general anaesthetic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017876%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=417035","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=417035"}},{"id":"417034","reference":"AQW 17875/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-08","answerBy":"2024-11-25","answered":"2024-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of meetings, including dates, he or his Department has had with officials in the Department of Health to encourage progression of the Help with Travel Costs scheme for people in receipt of Universal Credit.","answerText":"The Help with Health Costs Scheme is the responsibility of the Department of Health (DoH).\n\nIn addition to ongoing email communications, my officials have met DoH officials on five occasions to discuss matters relating to progressing the Help with Health Costs scheme regulations to include people in receipt of Universal Credit.\n\nMeetings were held on 19 October 2022, 30 November 2023, 20 March 2024, 14 May 2024 and 12 June 2024.","answerHtml":"The Help with Health Costs Scheme is the responsibility of the Department of Health (DoH).
In addition to ongoing email communications, my officials have met DoH officials on five occasions to discuss matters relating to progressing the Help with Health Costs scheme regulations to include people in receipt of Universal Credit.
Meetings were held on 19 October 2022, 30 November 2023, 20 March 2024, 14 May 2024 and 12 June 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017875%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=417034","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=417034"}},{"id":"416853","reference":"AQW 17796/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-07","answerBy":"2024-11-22","answered":"2024-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of pensioners that have made applications for Pension Credit as a result of local promotion actions following the UK Government decision to restrict criteria for the Winter Fuel Payment; and (ii) how he will ensure all pensioners who can avail of Pension Credit will be proactively contacted by his Department.","answerText":"In the three months following the Chancellor’s announcement on 29th July 2024, my Department received 3026 Pension Credit applications, a 56% increase when compared with the applications received in same period in 2023.\n\nMy Department continues to undertake a wide range of activities to promote Pension Credit uptake including: regular social media and broadcast campaigns; promotion work with age-based stakeholders; provision of confidential benefit assessment and help to complete forms; and identifying potential Pension Credit entitlement when a person makes their State Retirement Pension claim.\n\nIn addition, in conjunction with the Department for Work and Pensions, a letter has been issued to all pensioners regarding the Winter Fuel Payment entitlement changes which signposts to Pension Credit. My Department is also finalising plans with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to issue a letter to all older Housing Benefit recipients not already in receipt of Pension Credit, to make them aware about the benefit.","answerHtml":"In the three months following the Chancellor’s announcement on 29th July 2024, my Department received 3026 Pension Credit applications, a 56% increase when compared with the applications received in same period in 2023.
My Department continues to undertake a wide range of activities to promote Pension Credit uptake including: regular social media and broadcast campaigns; promotion work with age-based stakeholders; provision of confidential benefit assessment and help to complete forms; and identifying potential Pension Credit entitlement when a person makes their State Retirement Pension claim.
In addition, in conjunction with the Department for Work and Pensions, a letter has been issued to all pensioners regarding the Winter Fuel Payment entitlement changes which signposts to Pension Credit. My Department is also finalising plans with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to issue a letter to all older Housing Benefit recipients not already in receipt of Pension Credit, to make them aware about the benefit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017796%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416853","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416853"}},{"id":"416852","reference":"AQW 17795/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-07","answerBy":"2024-11-22","answered":"2024-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) the number of applications; and (ii) the amount of funding secured from Financial Transactions Capital for projects to improve or build new homes in each of the last five financial years, including 2024-25.","answerText":"Allocations of Financial Transactions Capital are made to departments as part of the normal budgetary process. The table below shows the allocations of Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) for the last five financial years to the Department for Communities to improve or build new social housing.\n\n£000s\n\nYear\t2020\t2021\t2022\t2023\t2024\nAllocation\t39,250\t45,750\t36,250\t14,250\t32,590","answerHtml":"Allocations of Financial Transactions Capital are made to departments as part of the normal budgetary process. The table below shows the allocations of Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) for the last five financial years to the Department for Communities to improve or build new social housing.
£000s
| Year | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Allocation | 39,250 | 45,750 | 36,250 | 14,250 | 32,590 |
The business rate relief in England for Retail, Hospitality and Leisure was reduced from 75% to 40%, meaning the cost of support is lower in 2025-26. The Executive has received a reduction of £58.2 million in 2025-26 in relation to business rates.
The Chancellor’s actions to reduce support in this area serves to confirm the affordability issues that I have consistently referred to with this particular business rates scheme. Those affordability issues are exacerbated if implanted into our local taxbase and economy which is heavily comprised of small and medium-sized enterprises.
My Department is assessing the details and implications of the wider policy announcements in the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget Statement as well as the Transforming business rates paper published by Treasury following that Statement.
Further work will then be progressed in this area once the Executive finishes considering the proposals I have put forward in relation to the strategic short, medium and long-term steps for the rating system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017794%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416851","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416851"}},{"id":"416850","reference":"AQW 17793/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-07","answerBy":"2024-11-22","answered":"2024-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any positive actions included in the Civil Service Skills Academy and student placement programme to attract people with disabilities and those over 50 to work in the Civil Service.","answerText":"Positive actions applied to encourage disabled persons to apply for the Civil Service Skills Academy included the use of Positive Action Advertising (PAA) and targeted outreach with the disability sector via an information session on the Skills Academy.\n\nActions to promote the Civil Service Student Placement Programme to disabled persons included outreach with Queens’ University Belfast, Ulster University and the Open University; promotion of the Programme to the disability sector as part of the recruitment advertising campaign; and an equal opportunities statement welcoming applications from disabled people.\n\nThe over 50 age demographic is not under-represented in the Civil Service workforce therefore PAA is not targeted at that group.","answerHtml":"Positive actions applied to encourage disabled persons to apply for the Civil Service Skills Academy included the use of Positive Action Advertising (PAA) and targeted outreach with the disability sector via an information session on the Skills Academy.
Actions to promote the Civil Service Student Placement Programme to disabled persons included outreach with Queens’ University Belfast, Ulster University and the Open University; promotion of the Programme to the disability sector as part of the recruitment advertising campaign; and an equal opportunities statement welcoming applications from disabled people.
The over 50 age demographic is not under-represented in the Civil Service workforce therefore PAA is not targeted at that group.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017793%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416850","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416850"}},{"id":"416849","reference":"AQW 17792/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-07","answerBy":"2024-11-22","answered":"2024-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether there is a requirement to consider the requirements of each Department to enable a change of use to meet wider Executive priorities, such as Housing, as part of her review of the Civil Service office estate.","answerText":"The policy for identifying a ‘public need’ for surplus public sector assets prior to selling these on the open market is well established through the ‘Disposal of Surplus Public Sector Property in Northern Ireland (November 2018)’ process.","answerHtml":"The policy for identifying a ‘public need’ for surplus public sector assets prior to selling these on the open market is well established through the ‘Disposal of Surplus Public Sector Property in Northern Ireland (November 2018)’ process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017792%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416849","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416849"}},{"id":"416500","reference":"AQW 17643/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-05","answerBy":"2024-11-20","answered":"2024-11-29","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 all discussions held with the new UK Government regarding the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, given the cut-off date for current funding is 31st March 2025.","answerText":"Executive departments continue to engage and work collaboratively in seeking to secure the best possible outcomes for the people and sectors here.\n\nThe Finance and Communities Ministers met with the Minister for Local Growth Alex Norris MP on the 17th September 2024 to discuss the loss of EU funds and successor funding options and the role of the Executive.\n\nThe Minister for Housing, Communities and Local Growth (MHCLG) was pressed on the need for urgent clarification on successor funding particularly due to the recurrent cliff-edge faced by the Community and Voluntary Sector.\n\nDoF are engaging regularly with MHCLG and are pressing for clarity on the allocations and interventions to be delivered for the SPF transition year and for early and full engagement on successor funding from 2026 onwards pressing for devolved design and delivery of any future fund.","answerHtml":"Executive departments continue to engage and work collaboratively in seeking to secure the best possible outcomes for the people and sectors here.
The Finance and Communities Ministers met with the Minister for Local Growth Alex Norris MP on the 17th September 2024 to discuss the loss of EU funds and successor funding options and the role of the Executive.
The Minister for Housing, Communities and Local Growth (MHCLG) was pressed on the need for urgent clarification on successor funding particularly due to the recurrent cliff-edge faced by the Community and Voluntary Sector.
DoF are engaging regularly with MHCLG and are pressing for clarity on the allocations and interventions to be delivered for the SPF transition year and for early and full engagement on successor funding from 2026 onwards pressing for devolved design and delivery of any future fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017643%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416500","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416500"}},{"id":"416499","reference":"AQW 17642/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-05","answerBy":"2024-11-20","answered":"2024-11-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail why water infrastructure costs are not included in Social Housing Grants.","answerText":"The Housing Association Guide sets out clearly what Registered Housing Associations can claim as part of the Housing Association Grant.\n\nAs per the Guide, any infrastructure costs (including sewers, connections or sustainable drainage systems (SUDs) which are within the boundaries of the Social Housing development will be deemed as qualifying scheme costs and therefore eligible for Grant.","answerHtml":"The Housing Association Guide sets out clearly what Registered Housing Associations can claim as part of the Housing Association Grant.
As per the Guide, any infrastructure costs (including sewers, connections or sustainable drainage systems (SUDs) which are within the boundaries of the Social Housing development will be deemed as qualifying scheme costs and therefore eligible for Grant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017642%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416499","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416499"}},{"id":"416498","reference":"AQW 17641/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-05","answerBy":"2024-11-20","answered":"2025-05-08","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 to detail why a Citizens' Assembly has not progressed in line with the commitment in New Decade New Approach.","answerText":"Civic engagement plays an important role in supporting policy development. We continue to assess options for the way forward.","answerHtml":"Civic engagement plays an important role in supporting policy development. We continue to assess options for the way forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017641%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416498","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416498"}},{"id":"416227","reference":"AQW 17525/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-04","answerBy":"2024-11-07","answered":"2024-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether both the Strangford and Portaferry ferries will be fully operational when the Strangford ferry service is reinstated later this month.","answerText":"I can confirm that Strangford Lough Ferry Service will return to a full sailing schedule upon completion of the essential slipway works being facilitated by the current temporary suspension.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that Strangford Lough Ferry Service will return to a full sailing schedule upon completion of the essential slipway works being facilitated by the current temporary suspension.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017525%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416227","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416227"}},{"id":"416226","reference":"AQW 17524/22-27","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 what actions he will take to require all Local Government Development Plans to be completed and published by as part of his work to reduce homelessness.","answerText":"Council Local Development Plans (LDPs) are the main vehicle for housing delivery by assessing future housing land requirements and managing housing growth to achieve sustainable patterns of residential development. This process allows councils to address local housing issues within their communities. Ultimately, councils have the important responsibility for setting a vision for the long-term future development of their areas through the preparation of LDPs. In doing so councils have the flexibility to bring forward bespoke approaches to dealing with any local issues which affect their communities. In the North, the promotion of healthy housing policy and the provision of decent, affordable and sustainable homes is the responsibility of the Department for Communities (DfC).\n\nI am committed to ensuring that our planning system operates in an efficient and effective way.\n\nThe Planning Improvement Programme is progressing, working closely with local government and partners, to improve current processes and the performance and delivery of the system. This wide-ranging improvement programme has already delivered important changes, all of which will continue to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of our planning system.\n\nI want to build on the positive work that has been taken forward to date and have asked my officials to arrange a series of meetings with councils with a specific focus on improving performance; identifying challenges; recognising success and promoting key learning across the system. Within my Department, steps have already been taken to increase staffing, mitigate and address performance of consultees.\n\nHowever, there is more to do, and I am delighted the ‘Transforming Planning’ bid to the Interim Public Sector Transformation Board has made it to Stage 2 of the process. This bid includes proposals to support and enhance the role of my Department’s Statutory Consultees and to appoint persons to undertake work that the Planning Appeals Commission has been unable to progress. I am hopeful that this bid will ultimately be successful.","answerHtml":"Council Local Development Plans (LDPs) are the main vehicle for housing delivery by assessing future housing land requirements and managing housing growth to achieve sustainable patterns of residential development. This process allows councils to address local housing issues within their communities. Ultimately, councils have the important responsibility for setting a vision for the long-term future development of their areas through the preparation of LDPs. In doing so councils have the flexibility to bring forward bespoke approaches to dealing with any local issues which affect their communities. In the North, the promotion of healthy housing policy and the provision of decent, affordable and sustainable homes is the responsibility of the Department for Communities (DfC).
I am committed to ensuring that our planning system operates in an efficient and effective way.
The Planning Improvement Programme is progressing, working closely with local government and partners, to improve current processes and the performance and delivery of the system. This wide-ranging improvement programme has already delivered important changes, all of which will continue to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of our planning system.
I want to build on the positive work that has been taken forward to date and have asked my officials to arrange a series of meetings with councils with a specific focus on improving performance; identifying challenges; recognising success and promoting key learning across the system. Within my Department, steps have already been taken to increase staffing, mitigate and address performance of consultees.
However, there is more to do, and I am delighted the ‘Transforming Planning’ bid to the Interim Public Sector Transformation Board has made it to Stage 2 of the process. This bid includes proposals to support and enhance the role of my Department’s Statutory Consultees and to appoint persons to undertake work that the Planning Appeals Commission has been unable to progress. I am hopeful that this bid will ultimately be successful.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017524%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416226","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416226"}},{"id":"416225","reference":"AQW 17523/22-27","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 of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) why cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is being removed from Portaferry Surgery; and (ii) whether CBT services will continue to be provided by primary care via GP surgeries within all Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"(i) The Northern Ireland Local Enhanced Service (NI LES) for Mild to Moderate Depression enables practices to employ practice-based counsellors to provide counselling for patients (aged 18 years and above) with mild to moderate depression.\n\nThis service ensures that patients receive care from competent practitioners for mild to moderate depression with low intensity psychosocial interventions such as individual guided self-help based on the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).\n\nPortaferry Surgery is among 185 practices throughout NI contracted to provide this service in the 2024/25 financial year.\n\nThe service has not been withdrawn from Portaferry Surgery.\n\nAll practices contracted to provide this service are allocated funding to provide mild to moderate (MMD) depression counselling sessions. With regards to Portaferry Surgery the practice was allocated additional funding in year that will allow the practice to continue providing counselling sessions.\n\n(ii) The NI LES Mild to Moderate Depression service is an enhanced service which covers enhanced aspects of clinical care of a patient - all of which are beyond the scope of essential General Medical Services. They are therefore not mandatory and as independent contractors GP Practices have the choice to contract to provide this service or not.","answerHtml":"(i) The Northern Ireland Local Enhanced Service (NI LES) for Mild to Moderate Depression enables practices to employ practice-based counsellors to provide counselling for patients (aged 18 years and above) with mild to moderate depression.
This service ensures that patients receive care from competent practitioners for mild to moderate depression with low intensity psychosocial interventions such as individual guided self-help based on the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
Portaferry Surgery is among 185 practices throughout NI contracted to provide this service in the 2024/25 financial year.
The service has not been withdrawn from Portaferry Surgery.
All practices contracted to provide this service are allocated funding to provide mild to moderate (MMD) depression counselling sessions. With regards to Portaferry Surgery the practice was allocated additional funding in year that will allow the practice to continue providing counselling sessions.
(ii) The NI LES Mild to Moderate Depression service is an enhanced service which covers enhanced aspects of clinical care of a patient - all of which are beyond the scope of essential General Medical Services. They are therefore not mandatory and as independent contractors GP Practices have the choice to contract to provide this service or not.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017523%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416225"}},{"id":"416224","reference":"AQW 17522/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-04","answerBy":"2024-11-19","answered":"2024-11-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what considerations have been put in place for maternity services to ensure when a stillbirth or a miscarriage occurs in hospital, that mothers are not placed in wards where other patients or families are celebrating a birth.","answerText":"Early Pregnancy Clinics are available in most maternity/gynaecology units across Northern Ireland. These clinics will have telephone triage and self-referral triage in place that successfully help to divert those experiencing pregnancy or loss away from ED units, however it is not possible at this time to provide 24/7 Early Pregnancy Clinics and this can mean that not all patients avail of this service in their time of need.\n\nOn Maternity wards, maternity service staff are very aware of the sensitivities for mothers and families around the time of a loss of a baby and how important it is to provide a safe environment to allow a family to grieve without being exposed to others celebrating. While all Trusts endeavour to provide a room in a quieter ward e.g. Early Pregnancy where there is less likelihood of babies in the vicinity, on some occasions a mother may be placed in a ward where there are babies but staff do their utmost to provide a private room as well as all other psychological and physical supports available.\n\nAs the infrastructure varies across Trusts, SPPG have summarised each Trust’s response below:\n\nBelfast HSC Trust\n\nThe Belfast Trust Maternity Service staff are very aware of the sensitivities for mothers and families around the time of a loss of a baby and how important it is to provide a safe environment to allow a family to grieve without being exposed to others celebrating.\n\nAt this time the current facilities in Belfast Trust are outdated and the Service had hoped to be availing of a new maternity hospital but this is delayed. For Mums who have had a stillbirth the Trust provides a side room called the Snow Drop room in the Delivery Suite which offers privacy but it is not sound proofed. Other women who have had early pregnancy loss are cared for in quieter wards e.g. Early Pregnancy where there is less likelihood of babies in the vicinity. However, on some occasions a mother may be placed in a ward where there are babies but staff do ensure that a private room is provided as well as all other psychological and physical supports available.\n\nSouth Eastern HSC Trust\n\nWithin the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust miscarriages are managed within the Early Pregnancy Problem Clinic (EPPC). This clinic is based from Ward 4E which is our Gynaecology ward. Ward 4E is located in a separate building from the Maternity Hospital.\n\nIn the event a woman has a still birth she is cared for in our Bereavement Suite which is located in a specific area of Labour Ward which is designed specifically for this purpose.\n\nNorthern HSC Trust\n\nThe Northern Trust cares for women who have a stillbirth in the ‘Willow Suite’ which is a bereavement room opened in 2023, outside of the birthing suite. This room was specifically commissioned and designed to provide compassionate and sensitive bereavement care to women and their families during the sad loss of their baby. The woman will remain in the room after the birth until she is discharged home. Regrettably if there is more than one woman, they may be placed in a side room in the maternity ward. Midwives will try to minimise exposure to other patients or families who are celebrating a birth. Women who sadly experience a miscarriage are cared for in a single room in the gynaecology ward for the duration of their care so are also not placed in wards where other women or families are celebrating a birth.\n\nSouthern HSC Trust\n\nWithin Craigavon Area Hospital (CAH) there is a dedicated bereavement suite, which opened in 2023, known as the Butterfly suite, with two birthing rooms. This suite is designated to families who are bereaved with stillbirth or late miscarriage. While the Butterfly suite is adjoined to the main delivery suite, the entrance to it has double doors with a short corridor and access can be gained via a side entrance allowing direct access to the main corridor to avoid additional stress for parents/visitors by meeting other birthing parents. There is easy access to delivery suite theatres in the event of an emergency situation. The Butterfly Suite in CAH has a separate bathroom, shower and toilet. They have a waiting/living room facility with a tea/coffee machine to welcome siblings and families to visit in a less clinical setting. The area has been sound proof to avoid any noise disturbance. A second room is also available in the event that more than one family would require the facilities at one time. This room is suitable for any gestation usually used for 17-42 weeks gestation. The entrance hall has a butterfly feature light and dim lighting. Soft colours and furnishing are used to make it appear less clinical and more conducive to the needs of bereaved families. Families remain in this room for labour and birth and until they are discharged home.\n\nThe Willow Suite in Daisy Hill Hospital (DHH) Newry is a refurbished room with a tranquil setting away from the main delivery suite, yet with quick access to theatres if required. It has an open planned kitchenette with a fridge and a microwave for bereaved families. Fans and recliner chairs are available to enhance comfort. Both rooms have subtle art work and have received very positive feedback from service users.\n\nWomen experiencing an early miscarriages (up to 17-20 weeks) are cared for in a side ward in Gynae wards in both CAH and DHH. Some may have an ensuite but the rooms are clinical and require a makeover to meet the standards to maintain comfort, dignity and privacy. They are not sound proof and suitable soft furnishings would enhance patient experience. Women labour and birth in this ward and are discharged home with resources to provide comfort and support. All families are offered a listening visit in Dromore Listening Rooms or telephone support from the Trust’s Bereavement Midwife. Staff aim to be caring, compassionate, and empathetic to all bereaved parents. In the event that the Willow Suite is in use, the family would be offered use of the Butterfly suite within CAH and vice versa.\n\nWestern HSC Trust\n\nWestern Trust have advised that within both of their maternity units they have a bereavement suite which is not located within the postnatal area. In Altnagelvin it is co located with antenatal and in SWAH it is at the end of the midwife led area. These suites have been designed with additional sound proof measures to reduce the likelihood of noises from the external environment being heard within these rooms. These rooms have been carefully fitted out with the involvement of parents who have lost babies so that they are providing as caring and a compassionate space as they can.\n\nWhilst it is not common, there is a possibility that there may 2 cases of baby loss that occur at the same time. In Altnagelvin if that is the situation, staff will bring these parents to the antenatal ward, and they will be provided with a single room.\n\nIn SWAH they will be offered a single room in an area of maternity where there are less women admitted. It may be in the midwife led area or the main maternity ward and staff will do their best to reduce the possibility of them encountering or hearing other babies.\n\nIf a women has a miscarriage they will be admitted to the Gynae ward for early miscarriage. In SWAH they will be in a single room of the Gynae /Surgical ward up to 17 weeks and this is located away from maternity.\n\nIn Altnagelvin these women will be admitted to the Gynae ward up to 19+ weeks and this ward is located in a floor below Maternity. These women will be offered a single room. Mothers who are admitted in the post-natal period with an infection are admitted to Gynae Wards and their baby can remain with them during his admission to promote bonding and breastfeeding. There is the possibility that a women could be in another single room within the Gynae ward who has had a miscarriage at this time, and whilst staff will do their best not to place these women in rooms near each other, (to lower the possibility of the baby being heard) there are only 5 single rooms in this ward available.","answerHtml":"Early Pregnancy Clinics are available in most maternity/gynaecology units across Northern Ireland. These clinics will have telephone triage and self-referral triage in place that successfully help to divert those experiencing pregnancy or loss away from ED units, however it is not possible at this time to provide 24/7 Early Pregnancy Clinics and this can mean that not all patients avail of this service in their time of need.
On Maternity wards, maternity service staff are very aware of the sensitivities for mothers and families around the time of a loss of a baby and how important it is to provide a safe environment to allow a family to grieve without being exposed to others celebrating. While all Trusts endeavour to provide a room in a quieter ward e.g. Early Pregnancy where there is less likelihood of babies in the vicinity, on some occasions a mother may be placed in a ward where there are babies but staff do their utmost to provide a private room as well as all other psychological and physical supports available.
As the infrastructure varies across Trusts, SPPG have summarised each Trust’s response below:
Belfast HSC Trust
The Belfast Trust Maternity Service staff are very aware of the sensitivities for mothers and families around the time of a loss of a baby and how important it is to provide a safe environment to allow a family to grieve without being exposed to others celebrating.
At this time the current facilities in Belfast Trust are outdated and the Service had hoped to be availing of a new maternity hospital but this is delayed. For Mums who have had a stillbirth the Trust provides a side room called the Snow Drop room in the Delivery Suite which offers privacy but it is not sound proofed. Other women who have had early pregnancy loss are cared for in quieter wards e.g. Early Pregnancy where there is less likelihood of babies in the vicinity. However, on some occasions a mother may be placed in a ward where there are babies but staff do ensure that a private room is provided as well as all other psychological and physical supports available.
South Eastern HSC Trust
Within the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust miscarriages are managed within the Early Pregnancy Problem Clinic (EPPC). This clinic is based from Ward 4E which is our Gynaecology ward. Ward 4E is located in a separate building from the Maternity Hospital.
In the event a woman has a still birth she is cared for in our Bereavement Suite which is located in a specific area of Labour Ward which is designed specifically for this purpose.
Northern HSC Trust
The Northern Trust cares for women who have a stillbirth in the ‘Willow Suite’ which is a bereavement room opened in 2023, outside of the birthing suite. This room was specifically commissioned and designed to provide compassionate and sensitive bereavement care to women and their families during the sad loss of their baby. The woman will remain in the room after the birth until she is discharged home. Regrettably if there is more than one woman, they may be placed in a side room in the maternity ward. Midwives will try to minimise exposure to other patients or families who are celebrating a birth. Women who sadly experience a miscarriage are cared for in a single room in the gynaecology ward for the duration of their care so are also not placed in wards where other women or families are celebrating a birth.
Southern HSC Trust
Within Craigavon Area Hospital (CAH) there is a dedicated bereavement suite, which opened in 2023, known as the Butterfly suite, with two birthing rooms. This suite is designated to families who are bereaved with stillbirth or late miscarriage. While the Butterfly suite is adjoined to the main delivery suite, the entrance to it has double doors with a short corridor and access can be gained via a side entrance allowing direct access to the main corridor to avoid additional stress for parents/visitors by meeting other birthing parents. There is easy access to delivery suite theatres in the event of an emergency situation. The Butterfly Suite in CAH has a separate bathroom, shower and toilet. They have a waiting/living room facility with a tea/coffee machine to welcome siblings and families to visit in a less clinical setting. The area has been sound proof to avoid any noise disturbance. A second room is also available in the event that more than one family would require the facilities at one time. This room is suitable for any gestation usually used for 17-42 weeks gestation. The entrance hall has a butterfly feature light and dim lighting. Soft colours and furnishing are used to make it appear less clinical and more conducive to the needs of bereaved families. Families remain in this room for labour and birth and until they are discharged home.
The Willow Suite in Daisy Hill Hospital (DHH) Newry is a refurbished room with a tranquil setting away from the main delivery suite, yet with quick access to theatres if required. It has an open planned kitchenette with a fridge and a microwave for bereaved families. Fans and recliner chairs are available to enhance comfort. Both rooms have subtle art work and have received very positive feedback from service users.
Women experiencing an early miscarriages (up to 17-20 weeks) are cared for in a side ward in Gynae wards in both CAH and DHH. Some may have an ensuite but the rooms are clinical and require a makeover to meet the standards to maintain comfort, dignity and privacy. They are not sound proof and suitable soft furnishings would enhance patient experience. Women labour and birth in this ward and are discharged home with resources to provide comfort and support. All families are offered a listening visit in Dromore Listening Rooms or telephone support from the Trust’s Bereavement Midwife. Staff aim to be caring, compassionate, and empathetic to all bereaved parents. In the event that the Willow Suite is in use, the family would be offered use of the Butterfly suite within CAH and vice versa.
Western HSC Trust
Western Trust have advised that within both of their maternity units they have a bereavement suite which is not located within the postnatal area. In Altnagelvin it is co located with antenatal and in SWAH it is at the end of the midwife led area. These suites have been designed with additional sound proof measures to reduce the likelihood of noises from the external environment being heard within these rooms. These rooms have been carefully fitted out with the involvement of parents who have lost babies so that they are providing as caring and a compassionate space as they can.
Whilst it is not common, there is a possibility that there may 2 cases of baby loss that occur at the same time. In Altnagelvin if that is the situation, staff will bring these parents to the antenatal ward, and they will be provided with a single room.
In SWAH they will be offered a single room in an area of maternity where there are less women admitted. It may be in the midwife led area or the main maternity ward and staff will do their best to reduce the possibility of them encountering or hearing other babies.
If a women has a miscarriage they will be admitted to the Gynae ward for early miscarriage. In SWAH they will be in a single room of the Gynae /Surgical ward up to 17 weeks and this is located away from maternity.
In Altnagelvin these women will be admitted to the Gynae ward up to 19+ weeks and this ward is located in a floor below Maternity. These women will be offered a single room. Mothers who are admitted in the post-natal period with an infection are admitted to Gynae Wards and their baby can remain with them during his admission to promote bonding and breastfeeding. There is the possibility that a women could be in another single room within the Gynae ward who has had a miscarriage at this time, and whilst staff will do their best not to place these women in rooms near each other, (to lower the possibility of the baby being heard) there are only 5 single rooms in this ward available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017522%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416224","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416224"}},{"id":"416223","reference":"AQW 17521/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-04","answerBy":"2024-11-19","answered":"2024-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail what action he will be taking to encourage self-employed people to have a pension.","answerText":"Finding effective, durable, retirement savings solutions for self-employed individuals is a long-term challenge not just nationally but globally.\n\nWhilst automatic enrolment into workplace pensions does not apply to the self-employed, individuals can arrange their own pension provision including through National Employment Savings Trust (NEST), personal pensions, stakeholder pensions and self-invested personal Pensions (SIPP). However there are specific barriers to pensions savings experienced by many self-employed people, including irregularity of income.\n\nThe Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is exploring the feasibility of retirement savings solutions for the self-employed, however this work is long term. My officials continue to liaise with DWP officials on this work.","answerHtml":"Finding effective, durable, retirement savings solutions for self-employed individuals is a long-term challenge not just nationally but globally.
Whilst automatic enrolment into workplace pensions does not apply to the self-employed, individuals can arrange their own pension provision including through National Employment Savings Trust (NEST), personal pensions, stakeholder pensions and self-invested personal Pensions (SIPP). However there are specific barriers to pensions savings experienced by many self-employed people, including irregularity of income.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is exploring the feasibility of retirement savings solutions for the self-employed, however this work is long term. My officials continue to liaise with DWP officials on this work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017521%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416223"}},{"id":"415769","reference":"AQW 17434/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-25","answerBy":"2024-11-11","answered":"2024-11-20","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 enactment of section 11 of the Private Tenancies Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerText":"My Department is working on commencing longer Notice to Quit periods, as provided for in Section 11 of the Act. However, as you are aware, the Act stipulates that regulations to specify those circumstances where longer notice periods will not apply must be in place before this happens.\n\nMy Department commissioned the Chartered Institute of Housing to produce a research report on those circumstances. The report and subsequent stakeholder discussion revealed a number of complexities which required further consideration, such as, in cases of domestic violence or when anti-social behaviour is as a result of a mental health condition. To this end, my Department is in the process of finalising a robust Equality Impact Assessment, with consultation planned for the coming months.\n\nSubject to the EQIA and other work completing as planned, I anticipate that draft regulations will be published for consultation in the early part of 2025.","answerHtml":"My Department is working on commencing longer Notice to Quit periods, as provided for in Section 11 of the Act. However, as you are aware, the Act stipulates that regulations to specify those circumstances where longer notice periods will not apply must be in place before this happens.
My Department commissioned the Chartered Institute of Housing to produce a research report on those circumstances. The report and subsequent stakeholder discussion revealed a number of complexities which required further consideration, such as, in cases of domestic violence or when anti-social behaviour is as a result of a mental health condition. To this end, my Department is in the process of finalising a robust Equality Impact Assessment, with consultation planned for the coming months.
Subject to the EQIA and other work completing as planned, I anticipate that draft regulations will be published for consultation in the early part of 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017434%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415769","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415769"}},{"id":"415595","reference":"AQW 17364/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-24","answerBy":"2024-11-08","answered":"2024-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the median gap between rent and the Local Housing Allowance for Universal Credit and Housing Benefit claimant households in the private rented sector.","answerText":"In May 2024, the average (median) gap between rent and the Local Housing Allowance for households in private rented sector for claimants on Universal Credit was £79.\n\nIn September 2024, the average (median) gap between rent and the Local Housing Allowance for households in private rented sector for claimants on Housing Benefit was £78.\n\nData source: Universal Credit Full-Service system (UCFS) May 2024. Note that due to retrospection of UCFS data UC figures are subject to change. NIHE Housing Benefit Data is taken from September 2024 to ensure that 2024 LHA rates are accounted for.","answerHtml":"In May 2024, the average (median) gap between rent and the Local Housing Allowance for households in private rented sector for claimants on Universal Credit was £79.
In September 2024, the average (median) gap between rent and the Local Housing Allowance for households in private rented sector for claimants on Housing Benefit was £78.
Data source: Universal Credit Full-Service system (UCFS) May 2024. Note that due to retrospection of UCFS data UC figures are subject to change. NIHE Housing Benefit Data is taken from September 2024 to ensure that 2024 LHA rates are accounted for.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017364%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415595","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415595"}},{"id":"415664","reference":"AQO 1113/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-24","answerBy":"2024-11-12","answered":"2024-11-12","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 provide an update on the Apprenticeship Challenge Fund.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"Our apprenticeship system has been growing, and we now have over 13,000 apprentices. However, women, people with disabilities and people from disadvantaged areas are under-represented. I want to address barriers to participation in apprenticeships for those groups. The apprenticeship inclusion challenge fund will drive collaboration across the education, business and voluntary and community sectors to develop and deliver innovative solutions to those inclusion challenges. I am pleased to update Members that the fund, which is worth more than £600,000, opened for applications on Wednesday 30 October. The fund will connect more people across our communities with good job opportunities, promote regional balance and inspire lifelong learning, in line with my economic priorities. Projects will commence in January 2025."},{"speaker":"Ms K Armstrong","text":"Thank you, Minister. What proactive engagement will you undertake to promote the apprenticeship inclusion challenge fund among businesses and individuals in order to meet your targets?"},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"There was already significant engagement before the fund opened. I think that there have been over 200 sessions with over 200 stakeholders across education, training, employers, industry and the voluntary and community sectors."},{"speaker":"","text":"Those sessions were intended to help to raise awareness of the fund and encourage participation."},{"speaker":"","text":"As I said, the fund has opened. The application window will be open for six weeks and will close on 6 December. I encourage all elected public representatives who have an interest in the area to make sure that they spread the word among their constituents."},{"speaker":"Mr Boylan","text":"Will the Minister expand on who is eligible to apply for the funding?"},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"Over £600,000 has been put into the fund. Applications have been open since 30 October and will close after six weeks. We encourage applications from people who have experience or interest in the apprenticeship system and also from organisations that are not directly involved in current apprenticeships delivery but have an interest in becoming involved in that, because we certainly want to expand the proposition for apprentices and try to get as many people as possible involved in that."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201113%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415664","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-11-12&docID=416634#AQO%201113/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415664"}},{"id":"415450","reference":"AQW 17291/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-23","answerBy":"2024-11-07","answered":"2024-11-01","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 any reports and research (i) completed; and (ii) planned to determine the affordability, suitability and standard of student accommodation provided by higher and further education facilities.","answerText":"There are no reports or research completed or planned. However, the interim report of the Magee Taskforce (available here: Magee Taskforce interim report | Department for the Economy) does highlight the lack of student accommodation as a key constraint on the expansion of Ulster University’s Magee campus and suggests action from the local council and the university to help address this.","answerHtml":"There are no reports or research completed or planned. However, the interim report of the Magee Taskforce (available here: Magee Taskforce interim report | Department for the Economy) does highlight the lack of student accommodation as a key constraint on the expansion of Ulster University’s Magee campus and suggests action from the local council and the university to help address this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017291%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415450","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415450"}},{"id":"415449","reference":"AQW 17290/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-23","answerBy":"2024-11-07","answered":"2024-10-31","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) for an update on the Ulster University Magee Taskforce plans to meet affordable and appropriate future student accommodation requirements; and (ii) whether private investment has been secured to deliver and manage these units.","answerText":"My officials will continue to work with Ulster University and other partners to support the development of affordable, appropriate student accommodation.\n\nThere has been significant growth in privately-owned purpose-built student accommodation in Belfast in recent years, it is anticipated that similar developments will come forward to build student accommodation for students attending Magee.\n\nSince the report of the Taskforce was published a planning application has been submitted for construction of a purpose-built student accommodation on the waterfront, conveniently located near to the campus.\n\nThe Taskforce is working with Derry City and Strabane District Council and others to drive campus growth including student accommodation.","answerHtml":"My officials will continue to work with Ulster University and other partners to support the development of affordable, appropriate student accommodation.
There has been significant growth in privately-owned purpose-built student accommodation in Belfast in recent years, it is anticipated that similar developments will come forward to build student accommodation for students attending Magee.
Since the report of the Taskforce was published a planning application has been submitted for construction of a purpose-built student accommodation on the waterfront, conveniently located near to the campus.
The Taskforce is working with Derry City and Strabane District Council and others to drive campus growth including student accommodation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017290%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415449","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415449"}},{"id":"415448","reference":"AQW 17289/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-23","answerBy":"2024-11-07","answered":"2024-11-14","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 is considering how the removal of rates exemption from university accommodation will impact students and the affordability of third level education in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Officials have discussed this issue with stakeholders such as the universities. The removal of rates exemptions on university accommodation will ultimately be a matter for the Executive.","answerHtml":"Officials have discussed this issue with stakeholders such as the universities. The removal of rates exemptions on university accommodation will ultimately be a matter for the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017289%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415448","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415448"}},{"id":"415447","reference":"AQW 17288/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-23","answerBy":"2024-11-07","answered":"2024-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how any income generated from a removal of rates exemption for university accommodation will be used.","answerText":"No decision has been taken on the removal of this measure.\n\nAs a general rule, any revenue savings from rating support that is removed would be a matter for the Executive to decide in line with budgetary processes.","answerHtml":"No decision has been taken on the removal of this measure.
As a general rule, any revenue savings from rating support that is removed would be a matter for the Executive to decide in line with budgetary processes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017288%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415447","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415447"}},{"id":"415446","reference":"AQW 17287/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-23","answerBy":"2024-11-07","answered":"2024-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any estimate that has been made on the amount of income that would be generated if the removal of rates exemption for university accommodation is progressed as part of her budget sustainability plan.","answerText":"Any removal of the stated exemption would raise around £2M in revenue, shared between the Executive and District Councils.\n\nNo decision has been taken on the removal of this measure.\n\nAs a general rule, any revenue savings from rating support that is removed would be a matter for the Executive to decide in line with budgetary processes.","answerHtml":"Any removal of the stated exemption would raise around £2M in revenue, shared between the Executive and District Councils.
No decision has been taken on the removal of this measure.
As a general rule, any revenue savings from rating support that is removed would be a matter for the Executive to decide in line with budgetary processes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017287%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415446","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415446"}},{"id":"414999","reference":"AQW 17075/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-21","answerBy":"2024-11-05","answered":"2024-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the investment agreed and planned for new Shared Housing for (a) 2024-25; (b) 2025-26; and (iii) 2026-27; and (ii) the number of houses this investment will create.","answerText":"A budget of £26.5m has been allocated for Shared Housing in the financial year 2024/25. Funding for future years will be based on budget allocation as agreed by the Executive.\n\nMy Department has an annual delivery target of 200 shared social units per year.","answerHtml":"A budget of £26.5m has been allocated for Shared Housing in the financial year 2024/25. Funding for future years will be based on budget allocation as agreed by the Executive.
My Department has an annual delivery target of 200 shared social units per year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017075%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414999","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414999"}},{"id":"414998","reference":"AQW 17074/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-21","answerBy":"2024-11-05","answered":"2024-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether the Shared Housing policy will be led by his Department or the Housing Executive; and (ii) to detail any plans there are to review the Shared Housing programme.","answerText":"As of 1st February 2024, operational delivery of the Shared Housing Programme has migrated to the ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing team in the Housing Executive. The new team is now established and developing new policies and procedures.\n\nMy Department has completed two reviews of the Shared Housing Programme, and these have resulted in 28 recommendations which have informed and increased shared housing delivery.\n\nThe Shared Housing Programme transferred to the Housing Executive on 1st February 2024, and therefore, any future reviews will be managed by the Housing Executive.\n\nIf their evaluations result in changes to policy or Programme guidance, the NIHE will draft and agree changes with the Registered Housing Associations and share the final document(s) with my Department.","answerHtml":"As of 1st February 2024, operational delivery of the Shared Housing Programme has migrated to the ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing team in the Housing Executive. The new team is now established and developing new policies and procedures.
My Department has completed two reviews of the Shared Housing Programme, and these have resulted in 28 recommendations which have informed and increased shared housing delivery.
The Shared Housing Programme transferred to the Housing Executive on 1st February 2024, and therefore, any future reviews will be managed by the Housing Executive.
If their evaluations result in changes to policy or Programme guidance, the NIHE will draft and agree changes with the Registered Housing Associations and share the final document(s) with my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017074%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414998","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414998"}},{"id":"414997","reference":"AQW 17073/22-27","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 any action he is taking to ensure fair and equitable access for people who are deaf and hard of hearing to all services provided by (i) Health and Social Care Trusts; and (ii) GPs.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts\n\nThe Health and Social Care trusts are committed to delivering services that are accessible to people who are deaf and hard of hearing. Trusts work proactively to ensure that services comply with the statutory Equality and Disability duties, for example Section 75 of the NI Act 1988, Disability Discrimination Act 1995, and promote best practice. Some of the work within Trusts includes:\n\nDedicated Trust Sensory Support Teams\n\nTrust Disability Consultation Panels\n\nVideos which are available in BSL and ISL and subtitled versions\n\nDeaf Awareness Training / Toolkits for staff / Guides\n\nStaff mandatory regional training, for example, Equality, Good Relations and Human Rights; Making a Difference eLearning.\n\nPromotional material, such as Posters / leaflets\n\nProvision of assistive listening devices\n\nAttendance at Deaf Service Users groups\n\nJAM (Just A Minute) Card, providing support to those with communication difficulties.\n\nCare Opinion\n\nHSC Disability Action Plan 2024 – 2029\n\nHSC Trusts in Northern Ireland worked collaboratively on the development of their new five-year Disability Action Plan and Equality Action Plan (2024-2029). The plans outline actions and initiatives to address section 75 inequalities, improve equality of opportunity, promote positive attitudes for disabled people and improve their participation in public life. The Actions in the Plan have been shaped by an audit of inequalities, engagement with experts by experience and key stakeholders and formal consultation.\n\nA specific Action is included in the 2024 – 2029 Plan in relation to deaf and hard of hearing service users. This commits all Trusts to continue the roll out of the Health and Social Care Regional Communication Support Service for People who are d/Deaf, d/Deafblind and Hard of Hearing and improve access to Sign Video within hospitals using computers and phones accessing the Trust Wi-Fi.\n\nRegional Communication Support Service (RCSS)\n\nThe RCSS was introduced on 1st April 2023 and offers a range of in-person and remote sign language interpreting services for health and social care appointments. The service is provided by Sign Language Interactions (SLI) and is delivered through one central booking service. SPPG have set up an Advisory Board to help advise and shape the RCSS for people who are deaf and hard of hearing in Northern Ireland.\n\n(ii)GP’s\n\nThe GMS Contract states that for GP services, ‘a contract must contain a term which requires the contractor in core hours- to provide – essential services, and additional services funded under the global sum, at such times, within core hours, as are appropriate to meet the reasonable needs of his patients’.\n\nIt also stipulates that the practice leaflet must detail, ‘Whether the practice premises have suitable access for disabled patients and, if not, the alternative arrangements for providing services to such patients.\n\nAll patients accessing an HSCNI service including GPs and their hospital appointments can access Sign Language Interactions a BSL / ISL Interpreter.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts
The Health and Social Care trusts are committed to delivering services that are accessible to people who are deaf and hard of hearing. Trusts work proactively to ensure that services comply with the statutory Equality and Disability duties, for example Section 75 of the NI Act 1988, Disability Discrimination Act 1995, and promote best practice. Some of the work within Trusts includes:
Dedicated Trust Sensory Support Teams
Trust Disability Consultation Panels
Videos which are available in BSL and ISL and subtitled versions
Deaf Awareness Training / Toolkits for staff / Guides
Staff mandatory regional training, for example, Equality, Good Relations and Human Rights; Making a Difference eLearning.
Promotional material, such as Posters / leaflets
Provision of assistive listening devices
Attendance at Deaf Service Users groups
JAM (Just A Minute) Card, providing support to those with communication difficulties.
Care Opinion
HSC Disability Action Plan 2024 – 2029
HSC Trusts in Northern Ireland worked collaboratively on the development of their new five-year Disability Action Plan and Equality Action Plan (2024-2029). The plans outline actions and initiatives to address section 75 inequalities, improve equality of opportunity, promote positive attitudes for disabled people and improve their participation in public life. The Actions in the Plan have been shaped by an audit of inequalities, engagement with experts by experience and key stakeholders and formal consultation.
A specific Action is included in the 2024 – 2029 Plan in relation to deaf and hard of hearing service users. This commits all Trusts to continue the roll out of the Health and Social Care Regional Communication Support Service for People who are d/Deaf, d/Deafblind and Hard of Hearing and improve access to Sign Video within hospitals using computers and phones accessing the Trust Wi-Fi.
Regional Communication Support Service (RCSS)
The RCSS was introduced on 1st April 2023 and offers a range of in-person and remote sign language interpreting services for health and social care appointments. The service is provided by Sign Language Interactions (SLI) and is delivered through one central booking service. SPPG have set up an Advisory Board to help advise and shape the RCSS for people who are deaf and hard of hearing in Northern Ireland.
(ii)GP’s
The GMS Contract states that for GP services, ‘a contract must contain a term which requires the contractor in core hours- to provide – essential services, and additional services funded under the global sum, at such times, within core hours, as are appropriate to meet the reasonable needs of his patients’.
It also stipulates that the practice leaflet must detail, ‘Whether the practice premises have suitable access for disabled patients and, if not, the alternative arrangements for providing services to such patients.
All patients accessing an HSCNI service including GPs and their hospital appointments can access Sign Language Interactions a BSL / ISL Interpreter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017073%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414997","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414997"}},{"id":"414996","reference":"AQW 17072/22-27","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 Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any steps she has taken to remove the second religion question from the census questions being planned for 2031.","answerText":"The work required to develop census questions for 2031 has not yet been initiated.","answerHtml":"The work required to develop census questions for 2031 has not yet been initiated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017072%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414996","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414996"}},{"id":"416346","reference":"AQO 1048/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-17","answerBy":"2024-11-04","answered":"2024-11-04","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 what action his Department is taking to protect and improve conditions for seabird populations.","answerText":"My Department recently launched a public consultation on a Seabird Conservation Strategy and Action Plan for Northern Ireland which outlines a number of objectives and associated actions that are required to address the various threats and pressures faced by seabirds to improve their resilience and make steps towards recovery. This includes increasing the evidence base, in particular, for at-sea records, and delivering targeted management for issues related to habitat loss from sea level rise or reducing impacts from invasive non-native mammalian predators.\n\nThis strategy, alongside others my Department has produced, was developed in a co-design approach with key stakeholders, and it is by working together that we can deliver the actions outlined.\n\nThe consultation closes on 16th December and I would like to take this opportunity to strongly encourage anyone who feels they can contribute, in words and also in actions, to respond.","answerHtml":"My Department recently launched a public consultation on a Seabird Conservation Strategy and Action Plan for Northern Ireland which outlines a number of objectives and associated actions that are required to address the various threats and pressures faced by seabirds to improve their resilience and make steps towards recovery. This includes increasing the evidence base, in particular, for at-sea records, and delivering targeted management for issues related to habitat loss from sea level rise or reducing impacts from invasive non-native mammalian predators.
This strategy, alongside others my Department has produced, was developed in a co-design approach with key stakeholders, and it is by working together that we can deliver the actions outlined.
The consultation closes on 16th December and I would like to take this opportunity to strongly encourage anyone who feels they can contribute, in words and also in actions, to respond.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201048%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416346","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416346"}},{"id":"413651","reference":"AQW 16543/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-10","answerBy":"2024-10-25","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any meeting requests from organisations that he has turned down since taking up office.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016543%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=413651","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=413651"}},{"id":"413650","reference":"AQW 16542/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-10","answerBy":"2024-10-25","answered":"2024-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the rationale used for not providing local government with hardship funding for vulnerable residents; and (ii) whether he will be bidding for funding to support vulnerable people through local councils in the next monitoring round.","answerText":"Due to the financial constraints on my Department’s budget, I am currently unable to provide any hardship funding for 2024/25 and due to the continuing uncertainty in funding, it would not be possible to consider a recurrent funding model at this time.The Department of Finance have commissioned the 2024/25 October Monitoring Round and there are no opportunities to bid for Non Ring-Fenced Resources.","answerHtml":"Due to the financial constraints on my Department’s budget, I am currently unable to provide any hardship funding for 2024/25 and due to the continuing uncertainty in funding, it would not be possible to consider a recurrent funding model at this time.The Department of Finance have commissioned the 2024/25 October Monitoring Round and there are no opportunities to bid for Non Ring-Fenced Resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016542%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=413650","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=413650"}},{"id":"413649","reference":"AQW 16541/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-10","answerBy":"2024-10-25","answered":"2024-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any preventative expenditure and investment measures being considering as part of his departmental budget planning for the 2025-26 financial year.","answerText":"Heavily constrained, single-year budgets severely limit my Department’s ability to consider longer term preventative expenditure and investment measures. Efficiencies have however been progressed to live within Budget, including rationalising my Department’s office estate and exiting four Belfast office buildings to provide recurrent savings, and progressing the transformation of Health Assessments for welfare benefits which longer term will also provide savings. Work is also ongoing on an Asset Management Strategy for my Department, and input has been provided to inform the Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland (ISNI).\n\nMy Department has submitted both 2024-25 In-Year and Budget 2025-26 requirements and will continue to ensure its expenditure and investment plans make best use of public funds. This includes seeking to secure additional funding in key areas, such as investment in New Build Social Homes and Homelessness Prevention measures, which if secured at a meaningful level with help tackle homelessness in a sustainable manner and drive down the amount spent annually on temporary accommodation.\n\nAdditional funding has been provided to the Supporting People programme in 2024-25 in recognition of the invaluable support to vulnerable people and the important work of these schemes in preventing additional demands on budgets elsewhere, particularly health and justice.","answerHtml":"Heavily constrained, single-year budgets severely limit my Department’s ability to consider longer term preventative expenditure and investment measures. Efficiencies have however been progressed to live within Budget, including rationalising my Department’s office estate and exiting four Belfast office buildings to provide recurrent savings, and progressing the transformation of Health Assessments for welfare benefits which longer term will also provide savings. Work is also ongoing on an Asset Management Strategy for my Department, and input has been provided to inform the Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland (ISNI).
My Department has submitted both 2024-25 In-Year and Budget 2025-26 requirements and will continue to ensure its expenditure and investment plans make best use of public funds. This includes seeking to secure additional funding in key areas, such as investment in New Build Social Homes and Homelessness Prevention measures, which if secured at a meaningful level with help tackle homelessness in a sustainable manner and drive down the amount spent annually on temporary accommodation.
Additional funding has been provided to the Supporting People programme in 2024-25 in recognition of the invaluable support to vulnerable people and the important work of these schemes in preventing additional demands on budgets elsewhere, particularly health and justice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016541%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=413649","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=413649"}},{"id":"413648","reference":"AQW 16540/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-10","answerBy":"2024-10-25","answered":"2024-10-25","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 any meetings she has had with the new UK Government to confirm their changes to fiscal rules.","answerText":"Following the election, I had introductory meetings with both the Chief Secretary to Treasury and the Chancellor of the Exchequer in mid-July. Then, along with the First and Deputy First Minister I met with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 12 September to discuss the 2024-25 financial position, including a request for early clarification of any additional Barnett consequentials for 2024-25.\n\nTogether with the Devolved Administration Finance Ministers I met with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury most recently at the Finance: Interministerial Finance Committee on 03 October, where I took the opportunity to highlight the need to invest in public services, infrastructure and public sector workers following years of Tory austerity and I also raised the fiscal rules, particularly in respect of investment in infrastructure.\n\nGiven the wider message on public finances socialised by the British Government, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury indicated that the new Labour Government were undertaking a wide ranging review on public finances in advance of decisions for the Autumn Budget due on 30 October.","answerHtml":"Following the election, I had introductory meetings with both the Chief Secretary to Treasury and the Chancellor of the Exchequer in mid-July. Then, along with the First and Deputy First Minister I met with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 12 September to discuss the 2024-25 financial position, including a request for early clarification of any additional Barnett consequentials for 2024-25.
Together with the Devolved Administration Finance Ministers I met with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury most recently at the Finance: Interministerial Finance Committee on 03 October, where I took the opportunity to highlight the need to invest in public services, infrastructure and public sector workers following years of Tory austerity and I also raised the fiscal rules, particularly in respect of investment in infrastructure.
Given the wider message on public finances socialised by the British Government, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury indicated that the new Labour Government were undertaking a wide ranging review on public finances in advance of decisions for the Autumn Budget due on 30 October.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016540%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=413648","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=413648"}},{"id":"413647","reference":"AQW 16539/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-10","answerBy":"2024-10-25","answered":"2024-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether any consideration is being given to introducing a preventative expenditure working group to identify how best to utilise budgets across Departments to achieve societal change, such as ending paramilitarism or ending homelessness.","answerText":"I would be happy to consider any proposals from departments to participate in a preventative expenditure working group.\n\nI would encourage all departments to work collaboratively to drive societal change. In terms of funding, Departments may fund joint programmes from their existing baseline or may bid for additional funding through the Budget process. Each department may bid separately, or a lead department may bid on behalf of departments. It is then a matter for the Executive to consider which bids can be prioritised given the funding available.\n\nIn terms of ending paramilitarism, an Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime has been in place since 2016. This cross Departmental Programme is chaired by the Head of the Civil Service and comprises representatives from Departments and Agencies who can deliver societal change in tackling this issue. The Executive provided £8 million in the 2024-25 Budget to support this work, along with an additional £1.5 million of funding to The Executive Office in June Monitoring. Funding for the Programme has also been provided by the British Government.\n\nIn relation to homelessness, the Housing Executive has a statutory responsibility and has published its Homelessness Strategy 2022-27. To aid the Housing Executive, in June Monitoring, I along with Executive Colleagues, provided an additional £20 million for the social housing development programme and a further £2 million Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) was provided for the ‘Move-on’ accommodation scheme, which supports those who have been experiencing homelessness. I also have encouraged the Communities Minister to make more use of the FTC funding that is available. Our joint ambition is to do more, and the further use of FTC has the potential to be part of the long-term solution, reflecting the shared priority set out in the draft Programme for Government around providing more social, affordable and sustainable housing.\n\nAs Homelessness is strongly linked to poverty, it is essential that we as an Executive work closely together in developing an agreed Anti-Poverty Strategy. I look forward to the Communities Minister providing his draft Anti-Poverty Strategy, which we as an Executive can then consider.","answerHtml":"I would be happy to consider any proposals from departments to participate in a preventative expenditure working group.
I would encourage all departments to work collaboratively to drive societal change. In terms of funding, Departments may fund joint programmes from their existing baseline or may bid for additional funding through the Budget process. Each department may bid separately, or a lead department may bid on behalf of departments. It is then a matter for the Executive to consider which bids can be prioritised given the funding available.
In terms of ending paramilitarism, an Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime has been in place since 2016. This cross Departmental Programme is chaired by the Head of the Civil Service and comprises representatives from Departments and Agencies who can deliver societal change in tackling this issue. The Executive provided £8 million in the 2024-25 Budget to support this work, along with an additional £1.5 million of funding to The Executive Office in June Monitoring. Funding for the Programme has also been provided by the British Government.
In relation to homelessness, the Housing Executive has a statutory responsibility and has published its Homelessness Strategy 2022-27. To aid the Housing Executive, in June Monitoring, I along with Executive Colleagues, provided an additional £20 million for the social housing development programme and a further £2 million Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) was provided for the ‘Move-on’ accommodation scheme, which supports those who have been experiencing homelessness. I also have encouraged the Communities Minister to make more use of the FTC funding that is available. Our joint ambition is to do more, and the further use of FTC has the potential to be part of the long-term solution, reflecting the shared priority set out in the draft Programme for Government around providing more social, affordable and sustainable housing.
As Homelessness is strongly linked to poverty, it is essential that we as an Executive work closely together in developing an agreed Anti-Poverty Strategy. I look forward to the Communities Minister providing his draft Anti-Poverty Strategy, which we as an Executive can then consider.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016539%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=413647","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=413647"}},{"id":"413492","reference":"AQW 16465/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-09","answerBy":"2024-10-14","answered":"2024-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the traffic management measures he will put in place to prevent commuters from causing congestion and parking pressures in Portaferry while the foot passenger ferry is in operation.","answerText":"Essential resurfacing works of The Strand, Castle Street, and Loughshore Road in Portaferry have been carefully planned to take place during the period in which the vehicle ferry is not operational beginning on Monday 14 October 2024. Traffic control arrangements will be in place with limited use of full road closures to facilitate the final resurfacing phases.\n\nThe passenger ferry will be using the pontoon opposite Ferry Street at the end of the resurfacing works. Pedestrian access will be maintained during the resurfacing works.\n\nAnyone wishing to park and use the passenger ferry service will be directed to the free council car parks at Meetinghouse Street and The Rope Walk.\n\nIf there are any concerns regarding motorists parking vehicles in such a manner that causes an obstruction, or blocking access or egress, then please refer the matter to the PSNI who are the enforcement authority using their non-emergency number 101.","answerHtml":"Essential resurfacing works of The Strand, Castle Street, and Loughshore Road in Portaferry have been carefully planned to take place during the period in which the vehicle ferry is not operational beginning on Monday 14 October 2024. Traffic control arrangements will be in place with limited use of full road closures to facilitate the final resurfacing phases.
The passenger ferry will be using the pontoon opposite Ferry Street at the end of the resurfacing works. Pedestrian access will be maintained during the resurfacing works.
Anyone wishing to park and use the passenger ferry service will be directed to the free council car parks at Meetinghouse Street and The Rope Walk.
If there are any concerns regarding motorists parking vehicles in such a manner that causes an obstruction, or blocking access or egress, then please refer the matter to the PSNI who are the enforcement authority using their non-emergency number 101.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016465%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=413492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=413492"}},{"id":"413491","reference":"AQW 16464/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-09","answerBy":"2024-10-24","answered":"2024-10-23","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 his Department is taking to stop the advertising of vapes (i) in close proximity to schools; and (ii) where confectionery can be purchased.","answerText":"There are existing restrictions on advertising of nicotine vapes as set out in the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016.\n\nThe King’s speech in July this year included a commitment to introduce a new Tobacco and Vapes Bill to progressively increase the age at which people can buy cigarettes and impose limits on the sale and marketing of vapes. The Government has also stated a desire to ban vapes from being branded and advertised to appeal to children in order to stop the next generation from becoming addicted to nicotine.\n\nI am supportive of the extension of these legislative measures to address youth vaping to Northern Ireland, however final decisions on Northern Ireland’s inclusion in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill will be subject to Executive and Assembly agreement.","answerHtml":"There are existing restrictions on advertising of nicotine vapes as set out in the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016.
The King’s speech in July this year included a commitment to introduce a new Tobacco and Vapes Bill to progressively increase the age at which people can buy cigarettes and impose limits on the sale and marketing of vapes. The Government has also stated a desire to ban vapes from being branded and advertised to appeal to children in order to stop the next generation from becoming addicted to nicotine.
I am supportive of the extension of these legislative measures to address youth vaping to Northern Ireland, however final decisions on Northern Ireland’s inclusion in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill will be subject to Executive and Assembly agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016464%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=413491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=413491"}},{"id":"412890","reference":"AQW 16240/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-04","answerBy":"2024-10-21","answered":"2024-10-18","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 recruit and train more GPs.","answerText":"Against the background of a challenging financial climate, my Department continues its focus on building the GP workforce. This includes funding to support the recruitment and retention of GPs through a number of initiatives comprising the “Attract, Recruit, Retain, Scheme” the GP Retainer Scheme, the GP Mentor Scheme, the GP Induction and Refresher Scheme and the GP Fellowship Scheme.\n\nMy Department has taken action to streamline the recruitment processes for GPs who qualified in the Republic of Ireland and we are currently updating the Northern Ireland Induction and Refresher schemes to align with the new General Medical Council (GMC) pathways for the recruitment of GPs from other countries joining the GMC GP Register. My Department has also introduced a Streamlined Returner process with the aim of removing unnecessary barriers to those wishing to return to the GP workforce.\n\nOver recent years, my Department has prioritised investment in the training of future GPs. The annual number of GP training places has been increased from 65 in 2015/16 to the current all-time high level of 121 (an increase of 86%). In addition, my Department is working with the NI Medical and Dental Training Agency (NIMDTA) on innovations to the local GP training programme with the objective of enhancing the recruitment and retention of trainees in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Against the background of a challenging financial climate, my Department continues its focus on building the GP workforce. This includes funding to support the recruitment and retention of GPs through a number of initiatives comprising the “Attract, Recruit, Retain, Scheme” the GP Retainer Scheme, the GP Mentor Scheme, the GP Induction and Refresher Scheme and the GP Fellowship Scheme.
My Department has taken action to streamline the recruitment processes for GPs who qualified in the Republic of Ireland and we are currently updating the Northern Ireland Induction and Refresher schemes to align with the new General Medical Council (GMC) pathways for the recruitment of GPs from other countries joining the GMC GP Register. My Department has also introduced a Streamlined Returner process with the aim of removing unnecessary barriers to those wishing to return to the GP workforce.
Over recent years, my Department has prioritised investment in the training of future GPs. The annual number of GP training places has been increased from 65 in 2015/16 to the current all-time high level of 121 (an increase of 86%). In addition, my Department is working with the NI Medical and Dental Training Agency (NIMDTA) on innovations to the local GP training programme with the objective of enhancing the recruitment and retention of trainees in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016240%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412890","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412890"}},{"id":"414207","reference":"AQO 980/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-03","answerBy":"2024-10-15","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 for an update on plans to address the waiting list for paediatric percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes surgery.","answerText":"From the outset, let me assure the Member and the parents of these young people that I fully appreciate the pressure that delays are causing.\n\nThis procedure is complex and it requires specialised clinical and nursing input prior to, during and post procedure.\n\nThere are 83 children currently on the waiting list with the longest wait over three years.\n\nThe Trust is currently examining every means to address this issue and it is hoped that this can assisted with additional measures being put in place from this month.\n\nFor example, at the moment a paediatric surgeon is validating the list so waiting times and numbers on the list may change dependent on the clinical priority.\n\nThis validation process will identity which children are suitable for possible transfer to Alder Hey Hospital in Liverpool for the procedure. Clinical criteria, agreed by the specialist team, will be in place to determine this. Once the initial scoping is done the parents of the eligible children for potential transfer to Liverpool will be contacted about the procedure.\n\nBelfast Trust are also hoping to provide a waiting list initiative in the coming weeks, to carry out additional sessions this month. As well as this, discussions are underway to provide the Belfast Trust paediatric surgeon a gastrostomy surgery list in the Ulster Hospital. Belfast Trust Gastrostomy Specialist Nurses will provide training to staff in South Eastern Trust to help facilitate this if it can be actioned.\n\nThere is also a review underway of work performed in RBHSC and in District General Hospitals to ascertain what work could be redirected to District General Hospitals. This may free up further capacity in RBHSC for Paediatric Surgeons to perform more gastrostomy surgery and other more complex surgery that can only be carried out in RBHSC.","answerHtml":"From the outset, let me assure the Member and the parents of these young people that I fully appreciate the pressure that delays are causing.
This procedure is complex and it requires specialised clinical and nursing input prior to, during and post procedure.
There are 83 children currently on the waiting list with the longest wait over three years.
The Trust is currently examining every means to address this issue and it is hoped that this can assisted with additional measures being put in place from this month.
For example, at the moment a paediatric surgeon is validating the list so waiting times and numbers on the list may change dependent on the clinical priority.
This validation process will identity which children are suitable for possible transfer to Alder Hey Hospital in Liverpool for the procedure. Clinical criteria, agreed by the specialist team, will be in place to determine this. Once the initial scoping is done the parents of the eligible children for potential transfer to Liverpool will be contacted about the procedure.
Belfast Trust are also hoping to provide a waiting list initiative in the coming weeks, to carry out additional sessions this month. As well as this, discussions are underway to provide the Belfast Trust paediatric surgeon a gastrostomy surgery list in the Ulster Hospital. Belfast Trust Gastrostomy Specialist Nurses will provide training to staff in South Eastern Trust to help facilitate this if it can be actioned.
There is also a review underway of work performed in RBHSC and in District General Hospitals to ascertain what work could be redirected to District General Hospitals. This may free up further capacity in RBHSC for Paediatric Surgeons to perform more gastrostomy surgery and other more complex surgery that can only be carried out in RBHSC.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20980%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414207","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414207"}},{"id":"412519","reference":"AQW 16094/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-02","answerBy":"2024-10-17","answered":"2024-10-14","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 he has had with the Minister of Health to progress the changes needed to the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme to enable people on Universal Credit to avail of this support without having to complete the Health Costs Form HC1.","answerText":"My officials are in regular contact with the relevant Department of Health (DoH) officials on the changes required to the Help with Health Costs Scheme for Universal Credit claimants.\n\nIn the meantime, Universal Credit claimants should continue to apply for Help with Health Costs by completing a HC1 application form and forwarding it to the Department for Communities. Further information can be found on nidirect: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/universal-credit-if-you-have-health-condition-or-disability#toc-8","answerHtml":"My officials are in regular contact with the relevant Department of Health (DoH) officials on the changes required to the Help with Health Costs Scheme for Universal Credit claimants.
In the meantime, Universal Credit claimants should continue to apply for Help with Health Costs by completing a HC1 application form and forwarding it to the Department for Communities. Further information can be found on nidirect: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/universal-credit-if-you-have-health-condition-or-disability#toc-8
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016094%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412519","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412519"}},{"id":"412518","reference":"AQW 16093/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-02","answerBy":"2024-10-17","answered":"2024-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the role he and his Department have in relation to the reform of the Housing Executive, including whether he has the ability to set a timetable for completion.","answerText":"I am actively pressing for a solution to enable the Housing Executive to access borrowing which does not score in Public Expenditure terms. I am seeking a solution that does not require reclassification or significant reform and which will put the Housing Executive on a sustainable footing to increase routine and planned investment, to deal with maintenance backlogs and a program of retrofit to improve energy efficiency in homes.\n\nThis work is ongoing, and it is not possible for me to confirm a timetable for completion at this time.","answerHtml":"I am actively pressing for a solution to enable the Housing Executive to access borrowing which does not score in Public Expenditure terms. I am seeking a solution that does not require reclassification or significant reform and which will put the Housing Executive on a sustainable footing to increase routine and planned investment, to deal with maintenance backlogs and a program of retrofit to improve energy efficiency in homes.
This work is ongoing, and it is not possible for me to confirm a timetable for completion at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016093%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412518"}},{"id":"412517","reference":"AQW 16092/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-02","answerBy":"2024-10-17","answered":"2024-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the additional cost to his Department to bus pupils from Portaferry to schools in Ballynahinch and Downpatrick during the five weeks when the Strangford ferry service is suspended.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the operation and delivery of home to school transport. It has advised me that the Department of Infrastructure has agreed that Translink will provide any additional bus transport needed for the five-week period while the Strangford Ferry service is suspended. There is no additional transport assistance required from the EA Transport Service and therefore no additional cost for bus transport will be incurred by my Department.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the operation and delivery of home to school transport. It has advised me that the Department of Infrastructure has agreed that Translink will provide any additional bus transport needed for the five-week period while the Strangford Ferry service is suspended. There is no additional transport assistance required from the EA Transport Service and therefore no additional cost for bus transport will be incurred by my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016092%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412517"}},{"id":"412516","reference":"AQW 16091/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-02","answerBy":"2024-10-17","answered":"2024-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the action his Department is taking, in conjunction with the Education Authority, to examine evidence of expected future demand for integrated education; and (ii) the methodology used to collate this evidence.","answerText":"Officials in my Department are working closely with colleagues in the Education Authority to develop and conduct a survey of parents who have recently made school preference decisions through the admissions portal. This survey will ask parents and guardians, in line with the Integrated Education Act, whether they have a preference for Integrated Education and how various factors have influenced their school preferences. This data will allow my Department to consider existing and future demand and provide data on which existing Area Planning structures can take action to aim to meet that demand.","answerHtml":"Officials in my Department are working closely with colleagues in the Education Authority to develop and conduct a survey of parents who have recently made school preference decisions through the admissions portal. This survey will ask parents and guardians, in line with the Integrated Education Act, whether they have a preference for Integrated Education and how various factors have influenced their school preferences. This data will allow my Department to consider existing and future demand and provide data on which existing Area Planning structures can take action to aim to meet that demand.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016091%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412516"}},{"id":"412515","reference":"AQW 16090/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-02","answerBy":"2024-10-17","answered":"2024-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) how his Department, in conjunction with the Education Authority, is identifying, assessing, monitoring and aiming to meet the demand for the provision of integrated education in area planning, as required by Section 5 (1) (a) of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022; and (ii) where this information is publicly available to review.","answerText":"The Integrated Education Act Section 10 Report was issued on 26 April 2024 which outlined the department’s analysis of demand for Integrated Education. This analysis concluded that although there was broadly sufficient provision of Integrated Education at primary school level, demand was not being met at the post-primary level.\n\nOn conclusion of work to update guidance for schools considering transformation to Integrated status, my Department will commission the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) to conduct an engagement exercise with those local communities with oversubscribed integrated schools.\n\nNICIE will then report on whether there is sufficient interest to merit development of integrated provision and/or encourage Transformation. Their findings will be published in due course.\n\nMy Department will shortly be issuing an updated Integrated Education Strategy and Action Plan, which will deal specifically with the issue of meeting the demand for Integrated Education. My officials continue to work closely with colleagues in the Education Authority and other stakeholder groups to develop and implement a process to assess demand. This includes the conducting of a survey to establish the preferences of parents for Integrated Education within and outside the mainstream school admissions process. It also includes an annual survey of attitudes towards Integrated Education within the Northern Ireland Life and Times survey.","answerHtml":"The Integrated Education Act Section 10 Report was issued on 26 April 2024 which outlined the department’s analysis of demand for Integrated Education. This analysis concluded that although there was broadly sufficient provision of Integrated Education at primary school level, demand was not being met at the post-primary level.
On conclusion of work to update guidance for schools considering transformation to Integrated status, my Department will commission the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) to conduct an engagement exercise with those local communities with oversubscribed integrated schools.
NICIE will then report on whether there is sufficient interest to merit development of integrated provision and/or encourage Transformation. Their findings will be published in due course.
My Department will shortly be issuing an updated Integrated Education Strategy and Action Plan, which will deal specifically with the issue of meeting the demand for Integrated Education. My officials continue to work closely with colleagues in the Education Authority and other stakeholder groups to develop and implement a process to assess demand. This includes the conducting of a survey to establish the preferences of parents for Integrated Education within and outside the mainstream school admissions process. It also includes an annual survey of attitudes towards Integrated Education within the Northern Ireland Life and Times survey.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016090%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412515","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412515"}},{"id":"412316","reference":"AQW 16013/22-27","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 clarify his statement to the Assembly on 1 October 2024 that Community Transport could provide transport to hospital, given (i) those operators are not permitted to apply for contracted health transport services under their Section 10B permit; and (ii) the Department for Infrastructure Dial-a-Lift programme states the service may not be used for hospital transport outside the local area.","answerText":"On launching the public consultation on the document - 'Hospitals — Creating a Network for Better Outcomes' – I acknowledged the importance of having in place suitable transport arrangements to underpin the hospital network and there is a section in the document dedicated to this. The potential need for additional travel for some is carefully balanced against the need to provide more timely access to care and a more efficient service, which is better able to meet the health needs of the entire population. Importantly, my comments were made regarding wider transport options that are, or could be, available for our communities.\n\nThe provision of transport is, of course, a cross-departmental issue and I have already been engaging with the Minister for Infrastructure and the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to discuss the full range of transport options available. We have instructed officials to recommission the Cross-Departmental Working Group to explore how to provide the best, value for money services. I understand that this Group will be meeting again in October and will provide further options for Ministerial consideration, in due course.\n\nIn the meantime, I would encourage all those with an interest in the hospital network document, including those with a perspective on transport provision, to respond to the consultation, which is now live.","answerHtml":"On launching the public consultation on the document - 'Hospitals — Creating a Network for Better Outcomes' – I acknowledged the importance of having in place suitable transport arrangements to underpin the hospital network and there is a section in the document dedicated to this. The potential need for additional travel for some is carefully balanced against the need to provide more timely access to care and a more efficient service, which is better able to meet the health needs of the entire population. Importantly, my comments were made regarding wider transport options that are, or could be, available for our communities.
The provision of transport is, of course, a cross-departmental issue and I have already been engaging with the Minister for Infrastructure and the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to discuss the full range of transport options available. We have instructed officials to recommission the Cross-Departmental Working Group to explore how to provide the best, value for money services. I understand that this Group will be meeting again in October and will provide further options for Ministerial consideration, in due course.
In the meantime, I would encourage all those with an interest in the hospital network document, including those with a perspective on transport provision, to respond to the consultation, which is now live.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016013%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412316","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412316"}},{"id":"412315","reference":"AQW 16012/22-27","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 for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he will consider introducing a companion pass to enable carers to travel for free on public transport with a person with a disability or aged 75 and over.","answerText":"The NI Concessionary Fares Consultation ran from 1st June 2023 to 24th August 2023 and included an option which would introduce companion passes for disabled people unable to travel alone.\n\nWhile public support for this option was strong (with 79% of respondents in favour of the change), unfortunately, due to the severe financial pressures facing the Department, I am not in a position to introduce changes which would increase the cost of the Scheme at this time.\n\nHowever, I will review my decision on the introduction of companion passes for disabled people unable to travel alone and also consider the other options included in the consultation again at the next budget. I am not, at this time, considering introducing companion passes based on age alone.","answerHtml":"The NI Concessionary Fares Consultation ran from 1st June 2023 to 24th August 2023 and included an option which would introduce companion passes for disabled people unable to travel alone.
While public support for this option was strong (with 79% of respondents in favour of the change), unfortunately, due to the severe financial pressures facing the Department, I am not in a position to introduce changes which would increase the cost of the Scheme at this time.
However, I will review my decision on the introduction of companion passes for disabled people unable to travel alone and also consider the other options included in the consultation again at the next budget. I am not, at this time, considering introducing companion passes based on age alone.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016012%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=412315","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=412315"}},{"id":"411712","reference":"AQW 15784/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-26","answerBy":"2024-10-11","answered":"2024-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for his assessment of Housing Executive decisions to refuse new housing development in areas when the waiting list for social homes is projected to hit 50,000 households in the coming months.","answerText":"It is my assessment that this issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“There are a number of factors to consider when supporting / committing expenditure to new social housing developments. The location and pattern of housing need varies in different locations across Northern Ireland. To that end, the Housing Executive complete housing assessments annually which consider the location and type of housing needs by housing need area / settlement level. The Commissioning Prospectus is then published (annually) which communicates this information to the sector and is an important document to direct housing associations in their site search to identify development opportunities in locations where there is a projected social housing need and a shortage of new build proposals.\n\nThe Housing Executive engages with housing associations at an early stage in the site identification process and assess every new build proposal against the 5-year projected need for the area and on the suitability of the location and the type and mix of housing proposed. Those schemes which have been supported are then assessed for inclusion on the 3-year Social Housing Development Programme to ensure they are capable of meeting identified housing need and to ensure they meet Housing Association Guide Standards. All schemes are programmed in line with strategic guidelines and availability of grant funding.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with them will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"It is my assessment that this issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“There are a number of factors to consider when supporting / committing expenditure to new social housing developments. The location and pattern of housing need varies in different locations across Northern Ireland. To that end, the Housing Executive complete housing assessments annually which consider the location and type of housing needs by housing need area / settlement level. The Commissioning Prospectus is then published (annually) which communicates this information to the sector and is an important document to direct housing associations in their site search to identify development opportunities in locations where there is a projected social housing need and a shortage of new build proposals.
The Housing Executive engages with housing associations at an early stage in the site identification process and assess every new build proposal against the 5-year projected need for the area and on the suitability of the location and the type and mix of housing proposed. Those schemes which have been supported are then assessed for inclusion on the 3-year Social Housing Development Programme to ensure they are capable of meeting identified housing need and to ensure they meet Housing Association Guide Standards. All schemes are programmed in line with strategic guidelines and availability of grant funding.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with them 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%2015784%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411712","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411712"}},{"id":"411711","reference":"AQW 15783/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-26","answerBy":"2024-10-11","answered":"2024-11-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the number of new social homes required in each local council area; and (ii) to detail the number of applications for social housing that have been refused by the Housing Executive in each local council area in (a) 2022; (b) 2023; and (c) 2024 to date.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows.\n\n“The table below provides projected social housing need, i.e. the number of new homes required over the 5 year period 2023-28 to meet identified social housing need, in each Council area.\n\n2023-2028 HNA Projections\nLocal Government District\t5-year social housing need\nAntrim & Newtownabbey\t1229\nArds & North Down\t1390\nArmagh, Banbridge & Craigavon\t1498\nBelfast\t8551\nCauseway Coast & Glens\t1638\nDerry City & Strabane\t4066\nFermanagh & Omagh\t905\nLisburn & Castlereagh\t1636\nMid & East Antrim\t863\nMid Ulster\t912\nNewry, Mourne & Down\t2234\nNorthern Ireland\t24922\n\nThe Housing Executive engages with housing associations at an early stage in the site identification process and assess every new build proposal against the 5-year projected need for the area and on the suitability of the location and the type and mix of housing proposed. Those schemes which have been supported are then assessed for inclusion on the 3-year Social Housing Development Programme to ensure they are capable of meeting identified housing need and to ensure they meet Housing Association Guide Standards. All schemes are programmed in line with strategic guidelines and availability of grant funding.\n\nThere are cases where it is not possible to support a housing association proposal due to a lack of evidenced housing need, unsuitability of location e.g. outside development limits, or where there are sufficient supported, programmed and on-site schemes to meet projected need. Such issues are normally raised at a very early stage in the process to avoid nugatory investigative work on the part of the association. At this stage the communication is generally informal, by email or telephone, and these discussions are not recorded in a manner which can be readily quantified.”\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 have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows.
“The table below provides projected social housing need, i.e. the number of new homes required over the 5 year period 2023-28 to meet identified social housing need, in each Council area.
| 2023-2028 HNA Projections | |
| Local Government District | 5-year social housing need |
| Antrim & Newtownabbey | 1229 |
| Ards & North Down | 1390 |
| Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon | 1498 |
| Belfast | 8551 |
| Causeway Coast & Glens | 1638 |
| Derry City & Strabane | 4066 |
| Fermanagh & Omagh | 905 |
| Lisburn & Castlereagh | 1636 |
| Mid & East Antrim | 863 |
| Mid Ulster | 912 |
| Newry, Mourne & Down | 2234 |
| Northern Ireland | 24922 |
The Housing Executive engages with housing associations at an early stage in the site identification process and assess every new build proposal against the 5-year projected need for the area and on the suitability of the location and the type and mix of housing proposed. Those schemes which have been supported are then assessed for inclusion on the 3-year Social Housing Development Programme to ensure they are capable of meeting identified housing need and to ensure they meet Housing Association Guide Standards. All schemes are programmed in line with strategic guidelines and availability of grant funding.
There are cases where it is not possible to support a housing association proposal due to a lack of evidenced housing need, unsuitability of location e.g. outside development limits, or where there are sufficient supported, programmed and on-site schemes to meet projected need. Such issues are normally raised at a very early stage in the process to avoid nugatory investigative work on the part of the association. At this stage the communication is generally informal, by email or telephone, and these discussions are not recorded in a manner which can be readily quantified.”
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%2015783%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411711","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411711"}},{"id":"411710","reference":"AQW 15782/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-26","answerBy":"2024-10-11","answered":"2024-10-07","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 to detail (i) what their Department is doing to ensure co-production and co-design of the Together: Building a United Community consultation questions; and (ii) who they are engaging with to co-produce and co-design the consultation.","answerText":"An extensive stakeholder engagement process has been completed as part of the review of T:BUC, providing a number of opportunities for stakeholders across the community and voluntary sector, local government, central government, academics and representative groups to contribute to the Review.\n\nOfficials are currently finalising a draft of the Review for our consideration with a view to developing a refreshed approach to Good Relations to build on progress to date.","answerHtml":"An extensive stakeholder engagement process has been completed as part of the review of T:BUC, providing a number of opportunities for stakeholders across the community and voluntary sector, local government, central government, academics and representative groups to contribute to the Review.
Officials are currently finalising a draft of the Review for our consideration with a view to developing a refreshed approach to Good Relations to build on progress to date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015782%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411710","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411710"}},{"id":"411542","reference":"AQW 15705/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-25","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the retrofitting of social homes is a key strategic element of his Housing Strategy.","answerText":"Decarbonisation and a just transition to low carbon homes is one of the five key objectives of the Housing Supply Strategy\n\nThe Strategy recognises the key role that retrofitting of all existing homes will play in achieving this objective.","answerHtml":"Decarbonisation and a just transition to low carbon homes is one of the five key objectives of the Housing Supply Strategy
The Strategy recognises the key role that retrofitting of all existing homes will play in achieving this objective.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015705%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411542","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411542"}},{"id":"411541","reference":"AQW 15704/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-25","answerBy":"2024-10-10","answered":"2024-10-15","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 work his Department has been undertaking to identify capital funding investment from non-government sources to support new social house builds.","answerText":"New social homes are currently delivered via grant funding provided by the Department through the Housing Association Grant and private finance arranged by the Housing Associations.\n\nMy Department is supportive of any initiatives which might improve the delivery of new social or affordable housing given the significant housing need.\n\nA two-day Strategic Insights Lab was held in June, which brought together key stakeholders to share knowledge and experience on how to increase social housing delivery in the current challenging environment. I am considering a number of recommendations which will form part of an action plan to be taken forward. A number of these recommendations include proposals on funding methods which will be given further consideration and require engagement with the relevant stakeholders.","answerHtml":"New social homes are currently delivered via grant funding provided by the Department through the Housing Association Grant and private finance arranged by the Housing Associations.
My Department is supportive of any initiatives which might improve the delivery of new social or affordable housing given the significant housing need.
A two-day Strategic Insights Lab was held in June, which brought together key stakeholders to share knowledge and experience on how to increase social housing delivery in the current challenging environment. I am considering a number of recommendations which will form part of an action plan to be taken forward. A number of these recommendations include proposals on funding methods which will be given further consideration and require engagement with the relevant stakeholders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015704%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411541","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411541"}},{"id":"411540","reference":"AQW 15703/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-25","answerBy":"2024-10-10","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 (i) for an update on the effectiveness of Belfast City Council’s Employment Academy interventions; and (ii) whether he will be encouraging councils to take forward such access to employment and skills interventions.","answerText":"In 2023/24, Employment Academies funded through the Belfast Labour Market Partnership and Belfast City Council actively supported 610 participants across a wide variety of sectors.\n\nOf the 329 participants who have completed an Employment Academy to date, 289 have successfully gained employment.\n\nThe remaining 10 Councils across Northern Ireland, through their local labour market partnerships action plan, also provide equally successful Employment Academies.","answerHtml":"In 2023/24, Employment Academies funded through the Belfast Labour Market Partnership and Belfast City Council actively supported 610 participants across a wide variety of sectors.
Of the 329 participants who have completed an Employment Academy to date, 289 have successfully gained employment.
The remaining 10 Councils across Northern Ireland, through their local labour market partnerships action plan, also provide equally successful Employment Academies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015703%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411540","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411540"}},{"id":"411539","reference":"AQW 15702/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-25","answerBy":"2024-10-10","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 to detail (i) whether he has received the Northern Ireland Local Government Association recommendations in relation to councillors; and (ii) whether an Independent Panel will be appointed to consider councillor remuneration, in a similar same way the Assembly Commission maintains transparency by appointing an Independent Panel to review MLA remuneration.","answerText":"I have received a report from the Review of Roles and Responsibilities of Councillors Working Group. The Chair and one other member were appointed using the public appointment process. Other members of the group included representatives from the NI Local Government Association; National Association of Councillors; Irish Congress of Trade Unions/Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance, and officials from my Department.\n\nI have not made any decisions yet on how councillor remuneration should be considered.","answerHtml":"I have received a report from the Review of Roles and Responsibilities of Councillors Working Group. The Chair and one other member were appointed using the public appointment process. Other members of the group included representatives from the NI Local Government Association; National Association of Councillors; Irish Congress of Trade Unions/Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance, and officials from my Department.
I have not made any decisions yet on how councillor remuneration should be considered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015702%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411539","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411539"}},{"id":"411538","reference":"AQW 15701/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-25","answerBy":"2024-10-10","answered":"2024-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the input his Department has to the Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill.","answerText":"My Department does not have any input to the Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill.\n\nHowever, I have agreed in principle with the Minister for Economy, that my officials can use the Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill as a vehicle for progressing Gender Pay Gap reporting in NI. I will make an announcement in due course.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have any input to the Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill.
However, I have agreed in principle with the Minister for Economy, that my officials can use the Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill as a vehicle for progressing Gender Pay Gap reporting in NI. I will make an announcement in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015701%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411538","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411538"}},{"id":"411145","reference":"AQW 15535/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-23","answerBy":"2024-10-08","answered":"2024-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission (i) for an update on its work to establish an independent panel to review MLA salaries; and (ii) whether this panel will be required to review and compare the remuneration of Statutory Committees and Standing Committees with other devolved regions, to include a review of remuneration for chairpersons and deputy chairpersons of Standing Committees.","answerText":"Following the resumption of normal Assembly business and the reconstitution of the Assembly Commission in February 2024, the Assembly Commission has considered the detail of a draft Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill at a number of meetings and asked for further papers and advice from officials. The Assembly Commission is scheduled to have a further discussion about the draft Bill and the timing of its potential introduction at its next meeting.\n\nAs part of these discussions, the Assembly Commission is giving consideration to the merits of benchmarking the position at the Assembly in relation to all salaries and allowances with other relevant institutions.","answerHtml":"Following the resumption of normal Assembly business and the reconstitution of the Assembly Commission in February 2024, the Assembly Commission has considered the detail of a draft Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill at a number of meetings and asked for further papers and advice from officials. The Assembly Commission is scheduled to have a further discussion about the draft Bill and the timing of its potential introduction at its next meeting.
As part of these discussions, the Assembly Commission is giving consideration to the merits of benchmarking the position at the Assembly in relation to all salaries and allowances with other relevant institutions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015535%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411145","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411145"}},{"id":"411144","reference":"AQW 15534/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-23","answerBy":"2024-10-08","answered":"2024-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission whether it will consult with MLAs as part of its process in reviewing constituency office expenses.","answerText":"Over recent months and years, the Assembly Commission has had ongoing discussions about issues which could be included in a review of the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2016, as amended by the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) (Amendment) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2020, (‘the Determination’).\n\nA number of policy changes relating to the Determination had already been agreed in principle by the Assembly Commission and, following further work over the Summer Recess, the Assembly Commission is currently finalising a new determination.\n\nAs is usual, the views of parties and Members have been contributed to the process through the elected Members of the Assembly Commission. Assembly Commission Members have reflected the experiences and issues raised with them by colleagues and the Assembly Commission has taken account of this feedback to seek to reach balanced outcomes which also take account of value for money and robust processes.","answerHtml":"Over recent months and years, the Assembly Commission has had ongoing discussions about issues which could be included in a review of the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2016, as amended by the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) (Amendment) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2020, (‘the Determination’).
A number of policy changes relating to the Determination had already been agreed in principle by the Assembly Commission and, following further work over the Summer Recess, the Assembly Commission is currently finalising a new determination.
As is usual, the views of parties and Members have been contributed to the process through the elected Members of the Assembly Commission. Assembly Commission Members have reflected the experiences and issues raised with them by colleagues and the Assembly Commission has taken account of this feedback to seek to reach balanced outcomes which also take account of value for money and robust processes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015534%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411144","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411144"}},{"id":"411143","reference":"AQW 15533/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-23","answerBy":"2024-10-08","answered":"2024-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission whether any unused ink cartridges will be reimbursed to office cost allowances when printers in constituency offices and MLA offices in Parliament Buildings are replaced.","answerText":"When printers in constituency offices and MLA offices in Parliament Buildings are replaced, Members will be able to return unopened and unused ink cartridges purchased from the Northern Ireland Assembly Commission supplier only. Please note that ink cartridges acceptable for return must have been purchased within 12 months preceding the date on which the printer was replaced. The stock value will then be reimbursed to the Member’s office cost allowance.","answerHtml":"When printers in constituency offices and MLA offices in Parliament Buildings are replaced, Members will be able to return unopened and unused ink cartridges purchased from the Northern Ireland Assembly Commission supplier only. Please note that ink cartridges acceptable for return must have been purchased within 12 months preceding the date on which the printer was replaced. The stock value will then be reimbursed to the Member’s office cost allowance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015533%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411143","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411143"}},{"id":"411142","reference":"AQW 15532/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-23","answerBy":"2024-10-08","answered":"2024-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any plans she has to bring forward regulation of property management companies.","answerText":"Management companies must act in accordance with existing relevant companies legislation, which falls outside the remit of my Department.\n\nHowever, the issue of how shared property is managed also has an interface with substantive land law, and is one that I am keen to see some progress in developing policy proposals. I am currently exploring with officials how to secure the appropriate expertise in what is a complex area. Further progress will depend on that and competing legislative priorities over the remainder of this mandate.","answerHtml":"Management companies must act in accordance with existing relevant companies legislation, which falls outside the remit of my Department.
However, the issue of how shared property is managed also has an interface with substantive land law, and is one that I am keen to see some progress in developing policy proposals. I am currently exploring with officials how to secure the appropriate expertise in what is a complex area. Further progress will depend on that and competing legislative priorities over the remainder of this mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015532%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411142","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411142"}},{"id":"410763","reference":"AQW 15376/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-19","answerBy":"2024-10-04","answered":"2024-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether customers who have unused ferry tickets due to expire during the period when the ferry service is cancelled will be granted an extension to the use by date of those tickets, at least equivalent to the length of time the ferry service is cancelled.","answerText":"I can confirm that during the period of temporary suspension journeys which expire will be honoured by My Department. Officials have issued a SMS message to all current subscribers advising of this.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that during the period of temporary suspension journeys which expire will be honoured by My Department. Officials have issued a SMS message to all current subscribers advising of this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015376%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410763","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410763"}},{"id":"410762","reference":"AQW 15375/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-19","answerBy":"2024-10-04","answered":"2024-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether the staff employed on the Strangford ferry service will be redeployed or furloughed during the period when the ferry service is cancelled from 14 October 2024.","answerText":"During the temporary suspension of the ferry service it is intended that crew members will assist with the passenger only service if successfully procured and complete any necessary training.","answerHtml":"During the temporary suspension of the ferry service it is intended that crew members will assist with the passenger only service if successfully procured and complete any necessary training.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015375%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410762","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410762"}},{"id":"410761","reference":"AQW 15374/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-19","answerBy":"2024-10-04","answered":"2024-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to confirm that all repair and maintenance work on the Strangford II and Portaferry II ferries will be completed during the five weeks from 14 October 2024 when they are out of service.","answerText":"The ferries require regular and routine maintenance throughout the year. Each vessel must also undergo an annual survey and associated works prior to the issue of a Passenger Ship Safety Certificate by MCA.","answerHtml":"The ferries require regular and routine maintenance throughout the year. Each vessel must also undergo an annual survey and associated works prior to the issue of a Passenger Ship Safety Certificate by MCA.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015374%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410761","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410761"}},{"id":"410760","reference":"AQW 15373/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-19","answerBy":"2024-10-04","answered":"2024-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any arrangements in place with Translink to provide additional buses from Strangford to Downpatrick during the period when the Strangford ferry service is cancelled from 14 October 2024.","answerText":"My Officials are in consultation with Translink about intended alternative arrangements during the temporary suspension.","answerHtml":"My Officials are in consultation with Translink about intended alternative arrangements during the temporary suspension.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015373%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410760","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410760"}},{"id":"410759","reference":"AQW 15372/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-19","answerBy":"2024-10-04","answered":"2024-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any scoping exercises completed to establish possible alternatives to cancelling the Strangford ferry for five weeks from 14 October 2024.","answerText":"My Department considered a number of options before deciding on this period, which coincides with school half term and when passenger numbers are 40% lower than July and August.","answerHtml":"My Department considered a number of options before deciding on this period, which coincides with school half term and when passenger numbers are 40% lower than July and August.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015372%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410759","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410759"}},{"id":"410373","reference":"AQW 15214/22-27","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 for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the roll-out of the Fundamental Reform of Allocations scheme, including a timeline for the completion of phase 3 and phase 4 of the project.","answerText":"Work has been ongoing with the Fundamental Review of Allocations. Stage One was implemented on 31 January 2023. I gave approval to Stage Two in June 2024, and my officials are now working with the Housing Executive on the early stages of Stage Three. The fourth and final phase was due to be completed in 2025; however, timelines are currently being reviewed and are subject to available budget.","answerHtml":"Work has been ongoing with the Fundamental Review of Allocations. Stage One was implemented on 31 January 2023. I gave approval to Stage Two in June 2024, and my officials are now working with the Housing Executive on the early stages of Stage Three. The fourth and final phase was due to be completed in 2025; however, timelines are currently being reviewed and are subject to available budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015214%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410373","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410373"}},{"id":"410372","reference":"AQW 15213/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-17","answerBy":"2024-10-02","answered":"2024-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure when his Department plans to replace each of the Strangford ferries.","answerText":"From 01 April – 31 August 2024 at least 1 vessel has been available for 99.96% of over 9,000 scheduled sailings. My Department currently has no plans to replace either ferry. Any future plans will take into consideration decarbonisation.","answerHtml":"From 01 April – 31 August 2024 at least 1 vessel has been available for 99.96% of over 9,000 scheduled sailings. My Department currently has no plans to replace either ferry. Any future plans will take into consideration decarbonisation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015213%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410372","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410372"}},{"id":"410151","reference":"AQW 15109/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-16","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) to detail the application process to install a pedestrian road crossing; and (ii) whether consideration has been given to install a pedestrian crossing at Ballynahinch Primary School.","answerText":"Requests or proposals for Controlled Crossing facilities are assessed against the criteria and assessment procedure set out under our current policy RSPPG E005 (Controlled Crossings: Assessment Procedures) which can be viewed at: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/infrastructure/controlled-crossings-assessment-procedures-rsppg-e005v6.pdf\n\nMy officials undertook a pedestrian survey at Ballynahinch Primary School in February 2024, using the criteria set out in policy document: RSPPG E005. Following a second stage assessment, I am pleased to advise that this location has been added to our list for pedestrian crossings in the Ards, North Down and Down areas. Unfortunately, however, due to constrained resources, the scheme does not score highly enough to be included on our planned programme for 2024/25 but will be considered for inclusion in future works programmes, subject to available resources.","answerHtml":"Requests or proposals for Controlled Crossing facilities are assessed against the criteria and assessment procedure set out under our current policy RSPPG E005 (Controlled Crossings: Assessment Procedures) which can be viewed at: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/infrastructure/controlled-crossings-assessment-procedures-rsppg-e005v6.pdf
My officials undertook a pedestrian survey at Ballynahinch Primary School in February 2024, using the criteria set out in policy document: RSPPG E005. Following a second stage assessment, I am pleased to advise that this location has been added to our list for pedestrian crossings in the Ards, North Down and Down areas. Unfortunately, however, due to constrained resources, the scheme does not score highly enough to be included on our planned programme for 2024/25 but will be considered for inclusion in future works programmes, subject to available resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015109%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410151","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410151"}},{"id":"410150","reference":"AQW 15108/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-16","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any consideration that has been given to implement bowel cancer screening from age 50.","answerText":"The UK National Screening Committee recommend that bowel cancer screening is offered to individuals aged 50-74. Currently, in Northern Ireland, anyone aged 60-74 years old, who is registered with a GP, is eligible for screening.\n\nAction 7 of the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy (2022-32) has committed to reducing the sensitivity levels used in the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) tests and lowering the age range in the NI Bowel Cancer Screening Programme, in line the UK National Screening Committee recommendation.\n\nWork to meet the commitments to lower the age range and/or further reduce the sensitivity level is ongoing but must be viewed within the context of wider financial and capacity challenges within the supporting services. It is important to note that screening programmes are a pathway and not just a ‘test’. As such, where a Screening Programme makes changes to its eligibility, it is important that the associated infrastructure, to include diagnostic capacity and any treatments that may be required, are aligned.\n\nCollaborative work has been ongoing between the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Queen’s University Belfast on the development of a bowel cancer screening model (taking into account both age extension and further reduction in FIT threshold). This model will contribute to informing the future approach, including how these are best phased into the programme to maximise benefits and outcomes and to provide more detailed cost information.","answerHtml":"The UK National Screening Committee recommend that bowel cancer screening is offered to individuals aged 50-74. Currently, in Northern Ireland, anyone aged 60-74 years old, who is registered with a GP, is eligible for screening.
Action 7 of the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy (2022-32) has committed to reducing the sensitivity levels used in the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) tests and lowering the age range in the NI Bowel Cancer Screening Programme, in line the UK National Screening Committee recommendation.
Work to meet the commitments to lower the age range and/or further reduce the sensitivity level is ongoing but must be viewed within the context of wider financial and capacity challenges within the supporting services. It is important to note that screening programmes are a pathway and not just a ‘test’. As such, where a Screening Programme makes changes to its eligibility, it is important that the associated infrastructure, to include diagnostic capacity and any treatments that may be required, are aligned.
Collaborative work has been ongoing between the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Queen’s University Belfast on the development of a bowel cancer screening model (taking into account both age extension and further reduction in FIT threshold). This model will contribute to informing the future approach, including how these are best phased into the programme to maximise benefits and outcomes and to provide more detailed cost information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015108%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410150","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410150"}},{"id":"410149","reference":"AQW 15107/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-16","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the remit of; (ii) the timeframe of work; and (iii) what has been achieved by the Housing Executive’s Housing Solutions Task and Finish Group.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive and been advised that:\n\n“The Accommodation Solutions Task and Finish Group provides strategic oversight and direction for work strands which aim to address temporary accommodation demand and are directly referenced as actions within the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation 2022-27.\n\nIndividual timeframes are set for specific short, medium, and long-term actions with regular updates on progress provided to the Group.\n\nThe work being taken forward by the group and across the Housing Executive includes:\n\nengaging with Housing Associations regarding bringing their long-term voids into use as temporary accommodation.\n\nthe introduction of Houses with Multiple Occupation as a model for providing temporary accommodation.\n\nexploring longer term leasing arrangements with accommodation providers, to provide better security of supply.\n\nexploring options to provide an additional accommodation and support solution for complex cases in the West Area.\n\nexploring options to acquire additional properties for use as temporary accommodation.\n\nreview exercises with customers aged over 55 in temporary accommodation.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB 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 Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive and been advised that:
“The Accommodation Solutions Task and Finish Group provides strategic oversight and direction for work strands which aim to address temporary accommodation demand and are directly referenced as actions within the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation 2022-27.
Individual timeframes are set for specific short, medium, and long-term actions with regular updates on progress provided to the Group.
The work being taken forward by the group and across the Housing Executive includes:
engaging with Housing Associations regarding bringing their long-term voids into use as temporary accommodation.
the introduction of Houses with Multiple Occupation as a model for providing temporary accommodation.
exploring longer term leasing arrangements with accommodation providers, to provide better security of supply.
exploring options to provide an additional accommodation and support solution for complex cases in the West Area.
exploring options to acquire additional properties for use as temporary accommodation.
review exercises with customers aged over 55 in temporary accommodation.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB 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%2015107%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410149","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410149"}},{"id":"410148","reference":"AQW 15106/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-16","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the timeline; and (ii) the proposal for the pilot for Housing First allocations in 2024-25.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Homelessness Strategy 2022-27 Year 3 Action Plan includes a commitment to publish independent research on the feasibility study for Housing First for Northern Ireland.\n\nThe research is due to be submitted to the Housing Executive’s Executive Team for consideration in the coming weeks and will be used to shape ongoing development work on any Housing First allocations. Additional Housing First allocation will be subject to engagement with a range of partners and the provision of appropriate funding to support any increased delivery.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB 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 Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Homelessness Strategy 2022-27 Year 3 Action Plan includes a commitment to publish independent research on the feasibility study for Housing First for Northern Ireland.
The research is due to be submitted to the Housing Executive’s Executive Team for consideration in the coming weeks and will be used to shape ongoing development work on any Housing First allocations. Additional Housing First allocation will be subject to engagement with a range of partners and the provision of appropriate funding to support any increased delivery.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB 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%2015106%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410148","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410148"}},{"id":"410147","reference":"AQW 15105/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-16","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-12-19","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 implementation of recommendations set out in the Review of Jointly Commissioned Supported Accommodation Projects.","answerText":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015105%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410147","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410147"}},{"id":"409996","reference":"AQW 15014/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-13","answerBy":"2024-09-30","answered":"2024-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of Major Adverse Incidents recorded by Supporting People providers in each of the last five years, broken down by (i) type of adverse incident; and (ii) Supporting People thematic group.","answerText":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015014%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409996","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409996"}},{"id":"409995","reference":"AQW 15013/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-13","answerBy":"2024-09-30","answered":"2024-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the funding reduction in (i) cash terms; and (ii) real terms to the Housing Executive’s Regional Services Revenue Programme since 2015-16.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“Please see the table below, which details the funding reduction in (i) cash terms; and (ii) real terms to the Housing Executive’s Regional Services Revenue Programme since 2015-16:\n\nFinancial Year\tFunding Opening Budget £k\tCash Terms Increase/ (Reduction) £k\tInflation Adjusted Comparitor £k\tReal Terms Reduction in Funding £k\n2015/16\t134,609\n2016/17\t127,209\t(7,400)\t128,854\t(1,645)\n2017/18\t125,033\t(9,576)\t131,049\t(6,016)\n2018/19\t122,944\t(11,665)\t135,417\t(12,473)\n2019/20\t123,944\t(10,665)\t139,552\t(15,608)\n2020/21\t124,944\t(9,665)\t142,532\t(17,588)\n2021/22\t127,156\t(7,453)\t144,554\t(17,398)\n2022/23\t135,156\t547\t151,011\t(15,885)\n2023/24\t141,229\t6,620\t163,623\t(22,394)\n2024/25*\t152,489\t17,880\t173,926\t(21,437)\n\n”\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 have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“Please see the table below, which details the funding reduction in (i) cash terms; and (ii) real terms to the Housing Executive’s Regional Services Revenue Programme since 2015-16:
| Financial Year | Funding Opening Budget £k | Cash Terms Increase/ (Reduction) £k | Inflation Adjusted Comparitor £k | Real Terms Reduction in Funding £k |
| 2015/16 | 134,609 | |||
| 2016/17 | 127,209 | (7,400) | 128,854 | (1,645) |
| 2017/18 | 125,033 | (9,576) | 131,049 | (6,016) |
| 2018/19 | 122,944 | (11,665) | 135,417 | (12,473) |
| 2019/20 | 123,944 | (10,665) | 139,552 | (15,608) |
| 2020/21 | 124,944 | (9,665) | 142,532 | (17,588) |
| 2021/22 | 127,156 | (7,453) | 144,554 | (17,398) |
| 2022/23 | 135,156 | 547 | 151,011 | (15,885) |
| 2023/24 | 141,229 | 6,620 | 163,623 | (22,394) |
| 2024/25* | 152,489 | 17,880 | 173,926 | (21,437) |
”
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%2015013%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409995","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409995"}},{"id":"409994","reference":"AQW 15012/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-13","answerBy":"2024-09-30","answered":"2024-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide (i) an update on the remodeling programme for large-scale congregate hostels; and (ii) a timeline for the work on this programme.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and as such I have been advised that:\n\n“The Housing Executive’s Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation 2022-27 contains an action to work with providers and Supporting People on a remodelling programme for large-scale congregate hostels.\n\nThe Housing Executive has conducted an analysis of Supporting People funded homeless hostels and has formed a steering group with Supporting People and a provider of one of Northern Ireland’s largest hostels which is considering options for the remodelling of the service.\n\nThe remodelling of large-scale congregate hostels is likely to extend beyond the period of the current Action Plan. There are several factors which will affect the timeframe for remodelling, such as demand for temporary accommodation, budget availability, design processes and, where required, the availability of suitable, alternative properties and planning approvals.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB 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 Northern Ireland Housing Executive and as such I have been advised that:
“The Housing Executive’s Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation 2022-27 contains an action to work with providers and Supporting People on a remodelling programme for large-scale congregate hostels.
The Housing Executive has conducted an analysis of Supporting People funded homeless hostels and has formed a steering group with Supporting People and a provider of one of Northern Ireland’s largest hostels which is considering options for the remodelling of the service.
The remodelling of large-scale congregate hostels is likely to extend beyond the period of the current Action Plan. There are several factors which will affect the timeframe for remodelling, such as demand for temporary accommodation, budget availability, design processes and, where required, the availability of suitable, alternative properties and planning approvals.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB 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%2015012%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409994"}},{"id":"409993","reference":"AQW 15011/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-13","answerBy":"2024-09-30","answered":"2024-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of (i) households; and (ii) individuals that were living in temporary accommodation on 31 March and on 1 September in each of the last five years, broken down by (a) age; (b) sex; (c) local council area; (d) District Electoral Area; and (e) type of temporary accommodation.","answerText":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin October 2023 – March 2024 contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-october-2023-march-2024\n\nSection 3 provides information on temporary accommodation placements. As the information is not published in the format you have requested, I am unable to provide you with a more detailed response.","answerHtml":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin October 2023 – March 2024 contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-october-2023-march-2024
Section 3 provides information on temporary accommodation placements. As the information is not published in the format you have requested, I am unable to provide you with a more detailed response.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015011%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409993"}},{"id":"409992","reference":"AQW 15010/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-13","answerBy":"2024-09-30","answered":"2024-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the average length of stay for households placed in temporary accommodation on (i) 31 March; and (ii) 1 September, in each of the last five years, broken down by (a) Assembly constituency; (b) local council area; and (c) District Electoral Area.","answerText":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin October 2023 – March 2024 contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-october-2023-march-2024\n\nTable 3.5 provides details on households in temporary accommodation by banded length of stay and accommodation type. As the information is not published in the format you have requested, I am unable to provide information by constituency or geographic area.","answerHtml":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin October 2023 – March 2024 contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-october-2023-march-2024
Table 3.5 provides details on households in temporary accommodation by banded length of stay and accommodation type. As the information is not published in the format you have requested, I am unable to provide information by constituency or geographic area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015010%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409992"}},{"id":"420508","reference":"AQO 833/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-12","answerBy":"2024-09-23","answered":"2024-09-23","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 he intends to introduce paid carer's leave in his proposed Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill.","answerText":"I am supportive of a paid entitlement and met recently with CarersNI to discuss their proposals. It is important to be honest about the financial constraints placed upon the Executive. In addition to the annually recurring costs of providing paid carer’s leave, there are other possible implications such as the availability of funding for any HMRC system changes that would be required. These changes would require considerable set up costs and the ongoing annual costs could be substantial. Therefore I am urging the British Government to adopt paid carers leave as part of its workers rights agenda. This would mean similar support could be provided here without an impact on the block grant. The Good Jobs Employment Rights Consultation closes on 30 September 2024. Finalisation of policy proposals can only properly be undertaken once all responses to the consultation have been duly evaluated.","answerHtml":"I am supportive of a paid entitlement and met recently with CarersNI to discuss their proposals. It is important to be honest about the financial constraints placed upon the Executive. In addition to the annually recurring costs of providing paid carer’s leave, there are other possible implications such as the availability of funding for any HMRC system changes that would be required. These changes would require considerable set up costs and the ongoing annual costs could be substantial. Therefore I am urging the British Government to adopt paid carers leave as part of its workers rights agenda. This would mean similar support could be provided here without an impact on the block grant. The Good Jobs Employment Rights Consultation closes on 30 September 2024. Finalisation of policy proposals can only properly be undertaken once all responses to the consultation have been duly evaluated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20833%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420508","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420508"}},{"id":"409676","reference":"AQW 14831/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-11","answerBy":"2024-09-26","answered":"2024-09-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the action she is taking to ensure Building Regulations are updated to include energy efficiency and retrofitting standards that includes both Energy Performance Certificate and Building Energy Rating systems.","answerText":"My Department is progressing its response to consultation on energy efficiency and related parts of the building regulations which ran from 26th July to 15 December 2023, for publication early next year. This considers relevant metrics and will inform subsequent uplifts to energy efficiency standards.\n\nA comprehensive fitness review of Energy Performance Certificates is currently being undertaken by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government with support from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, the outcomes of which are anticipated to be applicable here.","answerHtml":"My Department is progressing its response to consultation on energy efficiency and related parts of the building regulations which ran from 26th July to 15 December 2023, for publication early next year. This considers relevant metrics and will inform subsequent uplifts to energy efficiency standards.
A comprehensive fitness review of Energy Performance Certificates is currently being undertaken by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government with support from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, the outcomes of which are anticipated to be applicable here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014831%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409676","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409676"}},{"id":"409271","reference":"AQW 14586/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-06","answerBy":"2024-09-23","answered":"2024-09-23","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 to update and improve the passenger shelter facilities at Portaferry quay for passengers waiting to use the Strangford ferry.","answerText":"The existing shelter at Portaferry quay is owned and maintained by Translink and used by bus and ferry passengers. The Department currently has no plan to update or improve this facility.","answerHtml":"The existing shelter at Portaferry quay is owned and maintained by Translink and used by bus and ferry passengers. The Department currently has no plan to update or improve this facility.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014586%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409271","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409271"}},{"id":"409270","reference":"AQW 14585/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-06","answerBy":"2024-09-23","answered":"2024-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he has any plans to reintroduce cash payments on the Strangford ferry.","answerText":"Following a period of temporary suspension during the Covid-19 pandemic, cash payments were reintroduced at Strangford Ferry during April 2023.","answerHtml":"Following a period of temporary suspension during the Covid-19 pandemic, cash payments were reintroduced at Strangford Ferry during April 2023.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014585%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409270","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409270"}},{"id":"409269","reference":"AQW 14584/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-06","answerBy":"2024-09-23","answered":"2024-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 12140/22-27, in relation to the total spend of £40 million, to detail the amount that was allocated to reimbursements for individuals using taxis to travel to appointments under the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme.","answerText":"All six Health and Social Care Trusts have advised that the expenditure reported in AQW 12140/22-27 did not include expenditure under the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme.\n\nReimbursement under the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme is based on public transport fares. If public transport is unavailable or impractical, an approved private car or taxi journey would be reimbursed at a capped public transport fare rate.","answerHtml":"All six Health and Social Care Trusts have advised that the expenditure reported in AQW 12140/22-27 did not include expenditure under the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme.
Reimbursement under the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme is based on public transport fares. If public transport is unavailable or impractical, an approved private car or taxi journey would be reimbursed at a capped public transport fare rate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014584%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409269","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409269"}},{"id":"409268","reference":"AQW 14583/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-06","answerBy":"2024-09-23","answered":"2024-09-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 12140/22-27, in relation to the total spend of £40 million, to detail the amount spent on taxis procured and organised directly by (i) Health and Social Care Trusts; and (ii) the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Three of the Health and Social Care Trusts [Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT); South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (SEHSCT) and Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT)] have advised that they do not hold this level of detail within their central systems and it would require an extensive manual exercise to extract such information at a disproportionate cost.\n\nThree of the Health and Social Care Trusts [The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS); Southern Health and Social Care Trust (SHSCT) and Western Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT)] have advised that the reported figures within the £40 million total spend, relating to their Trust [Table 1], would be attributable to taxis procured and organised directly by their Trust, in each of the last five years.\n\n2019/20£000s\t2020/21£000s\t2021/22£000s\t2022/23£000s\t2023/24*£000s\nSouthern Trust\t1,573\t938\t1,518\t1,909\t2,152\nWestern Trust\t819\t695\t844\t853\t599\nNIAS\t206\t795\t853\t2,588\t2,287\n\nTable 1","answerHtml":"Three of the Health and Social Care Trusts [Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT); South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (SEHSCT) and Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT)] have advised that they do not hold this level of detail within their central systems and it would require an extensive manual exercise to extract such information at a disproportionate cost.
Three of the Health and Social Care Trusts [The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS); Southern Health and Social Care Trust (SHSCT) and Western Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT)] have advised that the reported figures within the £40 million total spend, relating to their Trust [Table 1], would be attributable to taxis procured and organised directly by their Trust, in each of the last five years.
| 2019/20£000s | 2020/21£000s | 2021/22£000s | 2022/23£000s | 2023/24*£000s | |
| Southern Trust | 1,573 | 938 | 1,518 | 1,909 | 2,152 |
| Western Trust | 819 | 695 | 844 | 853 | 599 |
| NIAS | 206 | 795 | 853 | 2,588 | 2,287 |
Table 1
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014583%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409268","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409268"}},{"id":"409267","reference":"AQW 14582/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-06","answerBy":"2024-09-23","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 whether all contracts, tenders or grants to deliver frontline services in the community includes provision for mental health support for the contractor’s staff.","answerText":"Since the introduction of the Procurement Policy Note 0121 Scoring Social Value, all service contracts procured since June 2022 must include 10% award criteria for scoring social value. SPPG is now fully compliant with PPN 0121 Scoring Social Value.\n\nAs a result, all above threshold Social Care Service tenders include a minimum I 0% award criteria on Scoring Social Value. For some contracts, the scoring will include social value themes one of which is about supporting the health and wellbeing, including physical and mental health, in the contract workforce.\n\nSPPG ensures that when above threshold contracts and services are tendered, those providers that do provide or include support of this sort, have this acknowledged in their application and this will be rewarded within the Contracts Adjudication Group (CAO) scoring scheme.\n\nSPPG will consider the option to include for the provision of a requirement to consider the mental health support for the contractor's staff in future early years grant schemes.","answerHtml":"Since the introduction of the Procurement Policy Note 0121 Scoring Social Value, all service contracts procured since June 2022 must include 10% award criteria for scoring social value. SPPG is now fully compliant with PPN 0121 Scoring Social Value.
As a result, all above threshold Social Care Service tenders include a minimum I 0% award criteria on Scoring Social Value. For some contracts, the scoring will include social value themes one of which is about supporting the health and wellbeing, including physical and mental health, in the contract workforce.
SPPG ensures that when above threshold contracts and services are tendered, those providers that do provide or include support of this sort, have this acknowledged in their application and this will be rewarded within the Contracts Adjudication Group (CAO) scoring scheme.
SPPG will consider the option to include for the provision of a requirement to consider the mental health support for the contractor's staff in future early years grant schemes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014582%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409267","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409267"}},{"id":"409121","reference":"AQW 14503/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-05","answerBy":"2024-09-20","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether he plans to review the number of dentists providing NHS dental services in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust area; and (ii) to detail any action he is taking to ensure there is sustainable provision of NHS dentists in the area.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014503%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409121"}},{"id":"409120","reference":"AQW 14502/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-05","answerBy":"2024-09-20","answered":"2024-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail any actions being taken to address the rise in complaints from patients who are unable to access GP services; and (ii) whether he will provide a contact telephone number or email address for patients to be able to raise concerns about GP surgeries.","answerText":"I recognise that being able to access GP practices when we need to do so is important for all of us.\n\nAs 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\nGP services have been experiencing sustained, high levels of demand since before the COVID-19 pandemic and in response Practices have continued to adapt how services are delivered. GPs are utilising a mixed consultation model with telephone consultations, video and face to face consultations as a means of managing the rising demand on services within the existing workforce while retaining responsiveness to those patients who need the most urgent attention and care.\n\nAdditional measures have been put in place to support primary care to adapt flexibly to increasing demand. These include focusing on increasing capacity to meet the demand from patients through, for example, reinforcing the GP workforce and increasing the range of healthcare professionals working in primary care, investment in general practice and the implementation of new and innovative ways of working, including making greater use of technology and telephony.\n\nAs part of supporting work in this area, my Department established a GP Access Working Group, which includes GP and service-user representation, to explore issues around accessing services and to oversee work to improve the experience for patients.\n\nShould a patient or service user wish to raise a formal complaint about the service received from a GP, this should be raised with the GP practice itself in the first instance. All practices are required to have a complaints procedure to address any issues raised by patients.\n\nAlternatively, the Complaints Team in the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) of the Department of Health can act as an intermediary between a patient and the Practice, further information is available here: FPS Complaints - DOH/HSCNI Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG). The SPPG Complaints Team can be contacted for further advice and assistance by e-mail: complaints.sppg@hscni.net or by telephoning 028 9536 3893.\n\nIndependent advice and support on making a complaint about health and social care services is also available from the Patient and Client Council, who offer a free, confidential, patient advocacy service. Further information, including contact details, is available via the Patient and Client Council website: Contact Us - Patient and Client Council Northern Ireland (hscni.net) or by telephoning Freephone 0800 917 0222.\n\nIf, following a response to any complaint, a patient remains unhappy they can bring their complaint to the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO). Information on how to make a complaint to NIPSO is available via the NIPSO website: How do I make a complaint to NIPSO? • Office of the Northern Ireland Ombudsman or by telephoning Freephone 0800 343424.","answerHtml":"I recognise that being able to access GP practices when we need to do so is important for all of us.
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.
GP services have been experiencing sustained, high levels of demand since before the COVID-19 pandemic and in response Practices have continued to adapt how services are delivered. GPs are utilising a mixed consultation model with telephone consultations, video and face to face consultations as a means of managing the rising demand on services within the existing workforce while retaining responsiveness to those patients who need the most urgent attention and care.
Additional measures have been put in place to support primary care to adapt flexibly to increasing demand. These include focusing on increasing capacity to meet the demand from patients through, for example, reinforcing the GP workforce and increasing the range of healthcare professionals working in primary care, investment in general practice and the implementation of new and innovative ways of working, including making greater use of technology and telephony.
As part of supporting work in this area, my Department established a GP Access Working Group, which includes GP and service-user representation, to explore issues around accessing services and to oversee work to improve the experience for patients.
Should a patient or service user wish to raise a formal complaint about the service received from a GP, this should be raised with the GP practice itself in the first instance. All practices are required to have a complaints procedure to address any issues raised by patients.
Alternatively, the Complaints Team in the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) of the Department of Health can act as an intermediary between a patient and the Practice, further information is available here: FPS Complaints - DOH/HSCNI Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG). The SPPG Complaints Team can be contacted for further advice and assistance by e-mail: complaints.sppg@hscni.net or by telephoning 028 9536 3893.
Independent advice and support on making a complaint about health and social care services is also available from the Patient and Client Council, who offer a free, confidential, patient advocacy service. Further information, including contact details, is available via the Patient and Client Council website: Contact Us - Patient and Client Council Northern Ireland (hscni.net) or by telephoning Freephone 0800 917 0222.
If, following a response to any complaint, a patient remains unhappy they can bring their complaint to the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO). Information on how to make a complaint to NIPSO is available via the NIPSO website: How do I make a complaint to NIPSO? • Office of the Northern Ireland Ombudsman or by telephoning Freephone 0800 343424.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014502%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409120"}},{"id":"409119","reference":"AQW 14501/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-05","answerBy":"2024-09-20","answered":"2024-09-19","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 to detail any plans to bring forward legislation to include local councils and council services within the remit of the Public Services Ombudsman.","answerText":"District councils are already included in Schedule 3 to the Public Services Ombudsman Act (NI) 2016 as a listed authority and therefore fall under the remit of the Public Services Ombudsman.","answerHtml":"District councils are already included in Schedule 3 to the Public Services Ombudsman Act (NI) 2016 as a listed authority and therefore fall under the remit of the Public Services Ombudsman.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014501%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409119","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409119"}},{"id":"409118","reference":"AQW 14500/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-05","answerBy":"2024-09-20","answered":"2024-09-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he will review and update the Section 10B bus permits to replicate the Section 22 and Section 19 permits for Community Transport, as used elsewhere in the UK, enabling the sector to provide not-for-profit routes in rural areas and services that will meet Department of Health procurement rules.","answerText":"I am awaiting further submissions from my officials on this matter which will help inform me on what if any further action in regards this matter is required.","answerHtml":"I am awaiting further submissions from my officials on this matter which will help inform me on what if any further action in regards this matter is required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014500%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409118","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409118"}},{"id":"409117","reference":"AQW 14499/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-05","answerBy":"2024-09-20","answered":"2024-09-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he will (i) carry out a review into the safety of rural bus stops, to identify those that do not have a shelter or appropriate lighting; and (ii) produce a report that includes recommendations for safety improvements.","answerText":"I recognise that all bus shelters, whether in rural or urban communities, are an integral part of the public transport service and provide passengers with shelter and safety from the elements whilst waiting for bus services.\n\nI know that Translink regularly receive requests for the provision of new bus shelters at stops throughout the North from passenger focus groups, members of the public, community and elected representatives. There is also a need to replace/refurbish the existing shelters in order to maintain their levels of condition.\n\nMy officials are currently considering a business case from Translink seeking to replace/refurbish existing bus shelters over a ten-year period. This will also include installing several new bus shelters across the public transport network. This work will be progressed subject to the availability of funding.","answerHtml":"I recognise that all bus shelters, whether in rural or urban communities, are an integral part of the public transport service and provide passengers with shelter and safety from the elements whilst waiting for bus services.
I know that Translink regularly receive requests for the provision of new bus shelters at stops throughout the North from passenger focus groups, members of the public, community and elected representatives. There is also a need to replace/refurbish the existing shelters in order to maintain their levels of condition.
My officials are currently considering a business case from Translink seeking to replace/refurbish existing bus shelters over a ten-year period. This will also include installing several new bus shelters across the public transport network. This work will be progressed subject to the availability of funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014499%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409117","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409117"}},{"id":"409001","reference":"AQW 14436/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-04","answerBy":"2024-09-19","answered":"2024-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether all providers of contracted or grant funded services that receive funding from his Department, or through an arm’s length body or non departmental public body, are sufficiently funded to enable all employed staff to receive, as a minimum, the Living Wage.","answerText":"My department’s directly contracted services have required all suppliers appointed since June 2022 to ensure that those who are delivering services to DfC are paid at least Real Living Wage to comply with Executive accreditation as a Living Wage employer and deliver on Social Values Policy.\n\nGrant funding provides a contribution towards eligible costs, which may include salaries and running costs incurred in the delivery of a range of agreed policy outcomes.\n\nMy department is not the employer of staff in any arm’s length body or non-departmental public body it funds. Terms and conditions and pay policies are a matter for the employer.","answerHtml":"My department’s directly contracted services have required all suppliers appointed since June 2022 to ensure that those who are delivering services to DfC are paid at least Real Living Wage to comply with Executive accreditation as a Living Wage employer and deliver on Social Values Policy.
Grant funding provides a contribution towards eligible costs, which may include salaries and running costs incurred in the delivery of a range of agreed policy outcomes.
My department is not the employer of staff in any arm’s length body or non-departmental public body it funds. Terms and conditions and pay policies are a matter for the employer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014436%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409001","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409001"}},{"id":"409000","reference":"AQW 14435/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-04","answerBy":"2024-09-19","answered":"2024-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether all contracts, tenders or grants issued directly by his Department, or on behalf of his Department through an arm’s length body or non departmental public body, includes provision to enable mental health support to be provided for frontline workers delivering services in the community.","answerText":"All tenders and contracts above threshold (£138,760 inc. VAT), issued by my Department or by its Associated Bodies comply with PPN 01/21 - Scoring Social Value.\n\nSince 1st September 2021 this includes a mandatory requirement for suppliers to adopt fair work practices, which should include specifically 'health, safety and psychosocial wellbeing'.\n\nAdditionally, there is a Supplier Code of Conduct which requires all contracted Suppliers of services to Government to confirm acceptance of the code. This includes the following provision: Provide a safe and healthy workplace for their employees.\n\nAll contract awards above £30,000 are managed by Construction and Procurement Delivery (CPD) and they are responsible for development of standard NICS contract terms.\n\nThe Policy does not mandate inclusion of Social Values in Grant awards.","answerHtml":"All tenders and contracts above threshold (£138,760 inc. VAT), issued by my Department or by its Associated Bodies comply with PPN 01/21 - Scoring Social Value.
Since 1st September 2021 this includes a mandatory requirement for suppliers to adopt fair work practices, which should include specifically 'health, safety and psychosocial wellbeing'.
Additionally, there is a Supplier Code of Conduct which requires all contracted Suppliers of services to Government to confirm acceptance of the code. This includes the following provision: Provide a safe and healthy workplace for their employees.
All contract awards above £30,000 are managed by Construction and Procurement Delivery (CPD) and they are responsible for development of standard NICS contract terms.
The Policy does not mandate inclusion of Social Values in Grant awards.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014435%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409000","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409000"}},{"id":"408999","reference":"AQW 14434/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-04","answerBy":"2024-09-19","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 why there is a disparity between the criteria used by each Health and Social Care Trust when awarding Direct Payments.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014434%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408999","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408999"}},{"id":"408998","reference":"AQW 14433/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-04","answerBy":"2024-09-19","answered":"2024-09-18","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 people in receipt of Direct Payments in each of the last ten years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"A Direct Payment is payment made to an individual as an alternative to services which would have been provided, or purchased by a Health and Social Care Trust. A Direct Payment must be used to purchase services, in accordance with assessed need and which the Trust has agreed to fund.\n\nThe use of Direct Payments runs throughout a number of Programmes of Care within the area of Health and Social Care.\n\nDetails of Direct Payments paid out by Trusts are published by the DoH, these figures can be accessed by following the enclosed link\n\nQuarterly direct payments statistics June 2024 | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"A Direct Payment is payment made to an individual as an alternative to services which would have been provided, or purchased by a Health and Social Care Trust. A Direct Payment must be used to purchase services, in accordance with assessed need and which the Trust has agreed to fund.
The use of Direct Payments runs throughout a number of Programmes of Care within the area of Health and Social Care.
Details of Direct Payments paid out by Trusts are published by the DoH, these figures can be accessed by following the enclosed link
Quarterly direct payments statistics June 2024 | 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%2014433%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408998","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408998"}},{"id":"408997","reference":"AQW 14432/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-04","answerBy":"2024-09-19","answered":"2024-09-18","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 (i) review the Direct Payments system to include a standardised criteria; and (ii) introduce an appeals system within each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"(i) A Direct Payment, which a Health and Social Care Trust has agreed to fund, must be used to purchase services in accordance with assessed need. This individualised approach ensures that care packages are tailored to each person, therefore making a standardised, one-size-fits-all criteria would be inappropriate. Each person’s care requirements are unique, and Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) must be flexible and able to respond to differing needs within the framework provided by legislation, such as the Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002.\n\nDirect Payments are utilised across a number of Programmes of Care within Health and Social Care. I have asked my officials to consider and provide me with advice on the current Direct Payments system in Northern Ireland. This will help identify those areas where improvements may be necessary.\n\n(ii) Currently, my Department has no plans to introduce a formal appeals systems for Direct Payments which would differ to systems currently in place within HSCTs. The operational management and day-to-day running of Direct Payments, including handling complaints and assessments, remain the responsibility of individual HSCTs. They are tasked with administering the system in line with existing legislation and ensuring that decisions reflect local needs and priorities.","answerHtml":"(i) A Direct Payment, which a Health and Social Care Trust has agreed to fund, must be used to purchase services in accordance with assessed need. This individualised approach ensures that care packages are tailored to each person, therefore making a standardised, one-size-fits-all criteria would be inappropriate. Each person’s care requirements are unique, and Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) must be flexible and able to respond to differing needs within the framework provided by legislation, such as the Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002.
Direct Payments are utilised across a number of Programmes of Care within Health and Social Care. I have asked my officials to consider and provide me with advice on the current Direct Payments system in Northern Ireland. This will help identify those areas where improvements may be necessary.
(ii) Currently, my Department has no plans to introduce a formal appeals systems for Direct Payments which would differ to systems currently in place within HSCTs. The operational management and day-to-day running of Direct Payments, including handling complaints and assessments, remain the responsibility of individual HSCTs. They are tasked with administering the system in line with existing legislation and ensuring that decisions reflect local needs and priorities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014432%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408997","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408997"}},{"id":"408712","reference":"AQW 14295/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-02","answerBy":"2024-09-17","answered":"2024-09-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether the Blue Badge application system will accept printed evidence, supplied by applicants, from Encompass rather than their GP.","answerText":"Currently Blue Badge Unit will accept evidence, submitted by applicants, from any suitably qualified medical professional i.e. GPs, physiotherapists, chiropractors, consultants, specialist nurses, MacMillan or Marie Curie nurses, etc. Applicants sometimes send in copies of their medical notes which, in some cases, can suffice if they demonstrate clearly that the person applying has a permanent and substantial disability which means they cannot walk or that they have considerable difficulty walking. Given that the Encompass system is not yet available across all the Trust areas, the efficacy of evidence supplied by the system has yet to be evaluated.","answerHtml":"Currently Blue Badge Unit will accept evidence, submitted by applicants, from any suitably qualified medical professional i.e. GPs, physiotherapists, chiropractors, consultants, specialist nurses, MacMillan or Marie Curie nurses, etc. Applicants sometimes send in copies of their medical notes which, in some cases, can suffice if they demonstrate clearly that the person applying has a permanent and substantial disability which means they cannot walk or that they have considerable difficulty walking. Given that the Encompass system is not yet available across all the Trust areas, the efficacy of evidence supplied by the system has yet to be evaluated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014295%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408712","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408712"}},{"id":"408711","reference":"AQW 14294/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-02","answerBy":"2024-09-17","answered":"2024-09-13","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 Queens Hall and Newtownards Library capital project.","answerText":"Further to my responses to AQW 5873/22-27 and AQW 8963/22-27, Libraries NI have submitted an updated business case supporting the proposed redevelopment of the library which is currently being considered by my Department. Any decision to proceed with a new library facility will be dependent on prioritising of capital investment in a very difficult budgetary situation.","answerHtml":"Further to my responses to AQW 5873/22-27 and AQW 8963/22-27, Libraries NI have submitted an updated business case supporting the proposed redevelopment of the library which is currently being considered by my Department. Any decision to proceed with a new library facility will be dependent on prioritising of capital investment in a very difficult budgetary situation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014294%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408711","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408711"}},{"id":"408710","reference":"AQW 14293/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-02","answerBy":"2024-09-17","answered":"2024-09-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will (i) have the updated Concordat agreement signed by all Executive Ministers; and (ii) ensure that it is circulated to all Departments.","answerText":"The Joint Forum between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector has been working together to develop a draft Partnership Agreement which will renew the commitments in the 2011 Concordat and support the relationship between the sectors. This draft is currently being finalised.\n\nAn updated agreement between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector will need to be endorsed by all Executive Ministers and embedded across all departments and local government.","answerHtml":"The Joint Forum between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector has been working together to develop a draft Partnership Agreement which will renew the commitments in the 2011 Concordat and support the relationship between the sectors. This draft is currently being finalised.
An updated agreement between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector will need to be endorsed by all Executive Ministers and embedded across all departments and local government.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014293%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408710","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408710"}},{"id":"408709","reference":"AQW 14292/22-27","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) the number of people in receipt of Direct Payments that are in debt to each of the five Health and Social Care Trusts, in each of the last ten years; and (ii) the average amount of debt in each Health and Social Care Trust, in each of the last ten years.","answerText":"The five Health and Social Care Trusts have provided the following information in response to the question above.\n\nTrusts have advised that in the main, a Direct Payment debt will arise when an invoice is issued to recover monies owed, and as such have provided the number of invoices or debts raised in each of the financial years. This is the best estimate available for the number of patients. The average debt has been calculated based on total invoiced amounts divided by invoices raised to the nearest pound.\n\nDirect payment debt by Trust 2014/15 to 2019/20\n\n2014/15\t2015/16\t2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\n\nBHSCT\tNumber of invoices\t4\t9\t41\t40\t36\t2\nAverage Debt Value, £\t£1,482\t£1,400\t£963\t£619\t£776\t£1,653\n\nNHSCT\tNumber of Debts Raised\t\t\t\t\t\t37\nAverage Debt Value, £\t\t\t\t\t\t£1,839\n\nSEHSCT\tNumber of invoices\nAverage Debt Value, £\n\nSHSCT\tNumber of Invoices\t12\t6\t7\t42\t47\t129\nAverage Debt Value, £\t£1,504\t£288\t£202\t£1,156\t£712\t£900\n\nWHSCT\tNumber of invoices\t7\t5\t3\t11\t28\t21\nAverage Debt Value, £\t£481\t£836\t£450\t£681\t£1,080\t£897\n\nDirect payment debt by Trust 2020/21 to 2024/25(to date)\n\n2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\t2024/25 to date\n\nBHSCT\tNumber of invoices\t2\t3\t5\t5\t10\nAverage Debt Value, £\t£5,091\t£1,151\t£2,773\t£1,707\t£2,573\n\nNHSCT\tNumber of Debts Raised\t45\t56\t62\t54\t96\nAverage Debt Value, £\t£1,606\t£1,341\t£1,384\t£1,562\t£1,464\n\nSEHSCT\tNumber of invoices\t\t\t58\t25\t16\nAverage Debt Value, £\t\t\t£2,501\t£1,806\t£1,561\n\nSHSCT\tNumber of Invoices\t73\t56\t81\t113\t52\nAverage Debt Value, £\t£1,353\t£694\t£1,206\t£1,065\t£1,058\n\nWHSCT\tNumber of invoices\t6\t43\t120\t86\tNot provided\nAverage Debt Value, £\t£405\t£1,491\t£1,820\t£1,367","answerHtml":"The five Health and Social Care Trusts have provided the following information in response to the question above.
Trusts have advised that in the main, a Direct Payment debt will arise when an invoice is issued to recover monies owed, and as such have provided the number of invoices or debts raised in each of the financial years. This is the best estimate available for the number of patients. The average debt has been calculated based on total invoiced amounts divided by invoices raised to the nearest pound.
Direct payment debt by Trust 2014/15 to 2019/20
| 2014/15 | 2015/16 | 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | ||
| BHSCT | Number of invoices | 4 | 9 | 41 | 40 | 36 | 2 |
| Average Debt Value, £ | £1,482 | £1,400 | £963 | £619 | £776 | £1,653 | |
| NHSCT | Number of Debts Raised | 37 | |||||
| Average Debt Value, £ | £1,839 | ||||||
| SEHSCT | Number of invoices | ||||||
| Average Debt Value, £ | |||||||
| SHSCT | Number of Invoices | 12 | 6 | 7 | 42 | 47 | 129 |
| Average Debt Value, £ | £1,504 | £288 | £202 | £1,156 | £712 | £900 | |
| WHSCT | Number of invoices | 7 | 5 | 3 | 11 | 28 | 21 |
| Average Debt Value, £ | £481 | £836 | £450 | £681 | £1,080 | £897 |
Direct payment debt by Trust 2020/21 to 2024/25(to date)
| 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 to date | ||
| BHSCT | Number of invoices | 2 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 10 |
| Average Debt Value, £ | £5,091 | £1,151 | £2,773 | £1,707 | £2,573 | |
| NHSCT | Number of Debts Raised | 45 | 56 | 62 | 54 | 96 |
| Average Debt Value, £ | £1,606 | £1,341 | £1,384 | £1,562 | £1,464 | |
| SEHSCT | Number of invoices | 58 | 25 | 16 | ||
| Average Debt Value, £ | £2,501 | £1,806 | £1,561 | |||
| SHSCT | Number of Invoices | 73 | 56 | 81 | 113 | 52 |
| Average Debt Value, £ | £1,353 | £694 | £1,206 | £1,065 | £1,058 | |
| WHSCT | Number of invoices | 6 | 43 | 120 | 86 | Not provided |
| Average Debt Value, £ | £405 | £1,491 | £1,820 | £1,367 |
Unfortunately, the Department of Health is unable to hold and maintain a list of dental practices currently accepting new Health Service patients.
Patents who are unregistered and require a dentist can make use of the HSC service finder to search for dental practices by area and is available at https://online.hscni.net/hsc-service-finder/ . Practices can be sorted by those closest to an address and then extending further afield. A contact number for each dental practice is available and will hopefully help your constituent find a practice to register with.
A Northern Ireland-wide Dental Access Scheme (DAS) commenced on 1st August 2024. This new scheme aims to improve access (during the working week) for unregistered patients experiencing an emergency, urgent, or pressing condition. There are six practices in the South Eastern Trust area involved in the scheme and they are listed on the scheme website. Full details of the scheme (including participating practices) can be viewed at: Dental Access Scheme - DOH/HSCNI Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014291%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408708","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408708"}},{"id":"407445","reference":"AQW 14135/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-03","answerBy":"2024-07-22","answered":"2024-08-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether there are any plans to introduce legislation in relation to estate agents.","answerText":"My Department has no responsibility for estate agents and therefore has no plans to introduce legislation in relation to them.","answerHtml":"My Department has no responsibility for estate agents and therefore has no plans to introduce legislation in relation to them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014135%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407445","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407445"}},{"id":"407444","reference":"AQW 14134/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-03","answerBy":"2024-07-22","answered":"2024-07-22","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 funding for Down Community Transport.","answerText":"I understand the importance to those within our rural communities who rely on community transport provided by Down District Accessible Transport and others, for accessing goods and services, enabling them to be more independent and remain connected to their communities.\n\nFunding for 2024/25 is at the same level as that awarded for 2023/24. This is subject to the Equality Impact Assessment consultation on the budget and so this allocation is indicative at this stage. I do, however, expect to be able to confirm opening budget allocations, once I have taken final decisions following consideration of responses to the Equality Impact Assessment after an initial four-week period ending 8th July 2024.\n\nMy Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government. The value of our infrastructure cannot be overstated, and I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment is made.","answerHtml":"I understand the importance to those within our rural communities who rely on community transport provided by Down District Accessible Transport and others, for accessing goods and services, enabling them to be more independent and remain connected to their communities.
Funding for 2024/25 is at the same level as that awarded for 2023/24. This is subject to the Equality Impact Assessment consultation on the budget and so this allocation is indicative at this stage. I do, however, expect to be able to confirm opening budget allocations, once I have taken final decisions following consideration of responses to the Equality Impact Assessment after an initial four-week period ending 8th July 2024.
My Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government. The value of our infrastructure cannot be overstated, and I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment is made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014134%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407444","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407444"}},{"id":"405492","reference":"AQW 13342/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-13","answerBy":"2024-06-28","answered":"2024-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the preventative measures his Department will put in place to reduce the number of children from deprived areas being placed into care.","answerText":"The joint Department of Education and Department of Health Life Deserved Strategy for Looked After Children recognises the link between deprivation and entry to care, and includes a number of commitments aimed at supporting families at an early stage, and providing targeted and timely support to help keep families together where possible.\n\nMy Department provides funding support totalling £809,732.00 per annum to a multi-agency network of 29 Family Support Hubs across Northern Ireland to provide early intervention services locally to help families address a range of emerging issues, and to signpost families with specific needs to appropriate services. Through the Public Health Agency, my Department also provides funding of £1,332,000.00 per annum to the Early Intervention Support Service, designed to support families with emerging vulnerability, with the aim of de-escalating issues of concern, achieving sustainable change, and promoting capability and capacity within families to resolve difficulties they are experiencing.\n\nAn Edge of Care Service is also in place in each Health and Social Care Trust, providing intensive and targeted support to young people identified as being at particular risk of entry into care. The overarching aim of this service is to support children to be safe within their family and community.\n\nThe Independent Review of Children’s Social Care Services in Northern Ireland was clear about the need for more help for families to assist them to care well for their children and made a number of recommendations aimed at providing greater focus and attention to family support. In response to these recommendations, a dedicated workstream has been established as part of the ongoing Children’s Social Care Services Strategic Reform Programme, working with partners in the voluntary and community sector, to improve outcomes for children, young people and their families through earlier intervention. While still in its early stages, it is intended that this workstream will develop proposals to build on and extend the range of early intervention and support services in place for children, young people and their families.","answerHtml":"The joint Department of Education and Department of Health Life Deserved Strategy for Looked After Children recognises the link between deprivation and entry to care, and includes a number of commitments aimed at supporting families at an early stage, and providing targeted and timely support to help keep families together where possible.
My Department provides funding support totalling £809,732.00 per annum to a multi-agency network of 29 Family Support Hubs across Northern Ireland to provide early intervention services locally to help families address a range of emerging issues, and to signpost families with specific needs to appropriate services. Through the Public Health Agency, my Department also provides funding of £1,332,000.00 per annum to the Early Intervention Support Service, designed to support families with emerging vulnerability, with the aim of de-escalating issues of concern, achieving sustainable change, and promoting capability and capacity within families to resolve difficulties they are experiencing.
An Edge of Care Service is also in place in each Health and Social Care Trust, providing intensive and targeted support to young people identified as being at particular risk of entry into care. The overarching aim of this service is to support children to be safe within their family and community.
The Independent Review of Children’s Social Care Services in Northern Ireland was clear about the need for more help for families to assist them to care well for their children and made a number of recommendations aimed at providing greater focus and attention to family support. In response to these recommendations, a dedicated workstream has been established as part of the ongoing Children’s Social Care Services Strategic Reform Programme, working with partners in the voluntary and community sector, to improve outcomes for children, young people and their families through earlier intervention. While still in its early stages, it is intended that this workstream will develop proposals to build on and extend the range of early intervention and support services in place for children, young people and their families.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013342%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405492"}},{"id":"405491","reference":"AQW 13341/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-13","answerBy":"2024-06-28","answered":"2024-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what actions he will take to ensure children and young people are taught about pensions in the school curriculum.","answerText":"Financial capability, including money management and savings, is currently embedded as a statutory and integral element of the Northern Ireland curriculum. One of the requirements of the statutory cross-curricular skill of Using Mathematics is that, at each of the four Key Stages throughout compulsory education, pupils should be enabled to develop financial capability skills.","answerHtml":"Financial capability, including money management and savings, is currently embedded as a statutory and integral element of the Northern Ireland curriculum. One of the requirements of the statutory cross-curricular skill of Using Mathematics is that, at each of the four Key Stages throughout compulsory education, pupils should be enabled to develop financial capability skills.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013341%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405491"}},{"id":"405211","reference":"AQW 13229/22-27","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 of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the total funding allocation for the Hospital Travel Cost Scheme, broken down by (i) Health and Social Care Trust; (ii) type of vehicle used; (iii) average journey mileage; and (iv) number of journeys, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Department does not provide a specific funding allocation for the Hospital Travel Cost Scheme and as such does not maintain any specific data relating to the scheme.\n\nHealth and Social Care (HSC) Trusts, usually through individual hospitals, administer the Hospital Travel Cost Scheme on behalf of the Department of Health. This scheme is funded through their overall budget allocation. HSC Trusts are responsible for informing patients of their entitlement, checking the appropriate travel costs and refunding travel costs to which patients are entitled.\n\nMy Department has made enquires with the HSC Trusts and has been informed that they do not centrally compile data on overall spend on this scheme nor do hospitals routinely retain data relating to the type of vehicle used, the average journey mileage or the number of journeys made. However, if you would like to pursue this matter further you will need to contact the HSC Trusts directly.","answerHtml":"The Department does not provide a specific funding allocation for the Hospital Travel Cost Scheme and as such does not maintain any specific data relating to the scheme.
Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts, usually through individual hospitals, administer the Hospital Travel Cost Scheme on behalf of the Department of Health. This scheme is funded through their overall budget allocation. HSC Trusts are responsible for informing patients of their entitlement, checking the appropriate travel costs and refunding travel costs to which patients are entitled.
My Department has made enquires with the HSC Trusts and has been informed that they do not centrally compile data on overall spend on this scheme nor do hospitals routinely retain data relating to the type of vehicle used, the average journey mileage or the number of journeys made. However, if you would like to pursue this matter further you will need to contact the HSC Trusts directly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013229%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405211","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405211"}},{"id":"405210","reference":"AQW 13228/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-11","answerBy":"2024-06-26","answered":"2024-07-01","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 transportation costs for service users attending buildings-based day care, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) the average journey mileage, broken down by mode of transport, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The following data details the costs broken down per Health and Social Care Trust, as of May 2024.\n\ni) the transportation costs for service users attending buildings-based day care, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust… in each of the last five years\n\nThe NHSCT provided the following response which includes all Programmes of Care collectively.\n\nTotal Costs\n19/20\t£1,040,241\n20/21\t£459,464\n21/22\t£757,828\n22/23\t£1,062,195\n23/24\t£1,134,018\n\nThe NHSCT provided the additional narrative:\n\nThis is the cost from General Ledger each year and so will include accruals. These are the costs only that are charged to the Adult & Day Centres and so excludes centrally provided Transport – this will be significant. This will include external transport such as hire of vehicles and taxis. This will include internal transport such as Fuel, Accident & Repairs, Servicing, Insurance etc – these are all Non-Pay Costs. This is only for costs charged to the Adult/Day Centre.\n\nThis will exclude any staff costs associated with internal transport provided by the Adult/Day Centre.\n\nBelfast, Southern, South Eastern and Western Trusts provided data by Programme of Care as follows:\n\nOlder People\n\nBHSCT\tSHSCT\tSEHSCT\tWHSCT\n19/20\t£996,619\t£48,000\t£308,260\t£386,703\n20/21\t£873,315\t£14,000\t£315,967\t£364,867.40\n21/22\t£969,540\t£48,000\t£325,769\t£364,867.40\n22/23\t£999,919\t£65,000\t£362,060\t£421,524.80\n23/24\t£991,367\t£408,000\tPlease see note below\t£427,374.00\n\nPhysical Disability\n\nBHSCT\tSHSCT\tSEHSCT\tWHSCT\n19/20\t£235,074\t£219,000\t£525,158\t£193,351.50\n20/21\t£205,990\t£87,000\t£538,287\t£182,433.70\n21/22\t£228,687\t£140,000\t£554,987\t£197,241.00\n22/23\t£235,853\t£307,000\t£622,805\t£210,762.40\n23/24\t£233,836\t£485,000\tPlease see note below\t£213,687.00\n\nSHSCT :The above figures include the Learning Disability programme.\n\nLearning Disability\n\nBHSCT\tSEHSCT\tWHSCT\n19/20\t£1,040,696\t£1,228,146\t£1,353,460.50\n20/21\t£911,938\t£1,258,850\t£1,277,035.90\n21/22\t£1,012,419\t£1,297,905\t£1,380,687.00\n22/23\t£1,044,141\t£1,597,423\t£1,475,336.80\n23/24\t£1,03,211\tPlease see note below\t£1,495,809.00\n\nSHSCT: Please refer to information under the Physical Disability programme of care.\n\nSEHSCT: 23/24 - Figures are derived from the Trusts Costing system and comparative 2023/24 figures will not be available until September 2025\n\n(ii) the average journey mileage, broken down by mode of transport, in each of the last five years\n\nThe following Trusts: BHSCT; NHSCT; SEHSCT and SHSCT advise that this information is not available to them.\n\nWHSCT advise “Each passenger vehicle (for Day Care) covers approximately 11,000 miles per year on average (over past 5 years).\n\nMy Department remains committed to the provision of a high-quality buildings-based day care and will continue to work alongside Trusts and independent sector providers to maintain and support service provision to include the provision of transport.","answerHtml":"The following data details the costs broken down per Health and Social Care Trust, as of May 2024.
i) the transportation costs for service users attending buildings-based day care, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust… in each of the last five years
The NHSCT provided the following response which includes all Programmes of Care collectively.
| Total Costs | |
| 19/20 | £1,040,241 |
| 20/21 | £459,464 |
| 21/22 | £757,828 |
| 22/23 | £1,062,195 |
| 23/24 | £1,134,018 |
The NHSCT provided the additional narrative:
This is the cost from General Ledger each year and so will include accruals. These are the costs only that are charged to the Adult & Day Centres and so excludes centrally provided Transport – this will be significant. This will include external transport such as hire of vehicles and taxis. This will include internal transport such as Fuel, Accident & Repairs, Servicing, Insurance etc – these are all Non-Pay Costs. This is only for costs charged to the Adult/Day Centre.
This will exclude any staff costs associated with internal transport provided by the Adult/Day Centre.
Belfast, Southern, South Eastern and Western Trusts provided data by Programme of Care as follows:
Older People
| BHSCT | SHSCT | SEHSCT | WHSCT | |
| 19/20 | £996,619 | £48,000 | £308,260 | £386,703 |
| 20/21 | £873,315 | £14,000 | £315,967 | £364,867.40 |
| 21/22 | £969,540 | £48,000 | £325,769 | £364,867.40 |
| 22/23 | £999,919 | £65,000 | £362,060 | £421,524.80 |
| 23/24 | £991,367 | £408,000 | Please see note below | £427,374.00 |
Physical Disability
| BHSCT | SHSCT | SEHSCT | WHSCT | |
| 19/20 | £235,074 | £219,000 | £525,158 | £193,351.50 |
| 20/21 | £205,990 | £87,000 | £538,287 | £182,433.70 |
| 21/22 | £228,687 | £140,000 | £554,987 | £197,241.00 |
| 22/23 | £235,853 | £307,000 | £622,805 | £210,762.40 |
| 23/24 | £233,836 | £485,000 | Please see note below | £213,687.00 |
SHSCT :The above figures include the Learning Disability programme.
Learning Disability
| BHSCT | SEHSCT | WHSCT | |
| 19/20 | £1,040,696 | £1,228,146 | £1,353,460.50 |
| 20/21 | £911,938 | £1,258,850 | £1,277,035.90 |
| 21/22 | £1,012,419 | £1,297,905 | £1,380,687.00 |
| 22/23 | £1,044,141 | £1,597,423 | £1,475,336.80 |
| 23/24 | £1,03,211 | Please see note below | £1,495,809.00 |
SHSCT: Please refer to information under the Physical Disability programme of care.
SEHSCT: 23/24 - Figures are derived from the Trusts Costing system and comparative 2023/24 figures will not be available until September 2025
(ii) the average journey mileage, broken down by mode of transport, in each of the last five years
The following Trusts: BHSCT; NHSCT; SEHSCT and SHSCT advise that this information is not available to them.
WHSCT advise “Each passenger vehicle (for Day Care) covers approximately 11,000 miles per year on average (over past 5 years).
My Department remains committed to the provision of a high-quality buildings-based day care and will continue to work alongside Trusts and independent sector providers to maintain and support service provision to include the provision of transport.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013228%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405210","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405210"}},{"id":"405209","reference":"AQW 13227/22-27","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 of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the eligibility criteria for the Hospital Travel Cost Scheme, whether community transport is considered as an available form of public transport.","answerText":"The eligibility criteria for the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme is published on the NI Direct website:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/help-health-costs\n\nA person is either automatically entitled to a refund if they are in receipt of certain benefits or they have to apply through the Low Income Scheme. Guidance for refunding travel expenses refers to ‘reasonable travel expenses’ and advises that travel costs should be calculated on the basis of the cheapest form of public transport available to the patient, but it does not specifically mention community transport.","answerHtml":"The eligibility criteria for the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme is published on the NI Direct website:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/help-health-costs
A person is either automatically entitled to a refund if they are in receipt of certain benefits or they have to apply through the Low Income Scheme. Guidance for refunding travel expenses refers to ‘reasonable travel expenses’ and advises that travel costs should be calculated on the basis of the cheapest form of public transport available to the patient, but it does not specifically mention community transport.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013227%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405209","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405209"}},{"id":"405007","reference":"AQW 13172/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-10","answerBy":"2024-06-25","answered":"2024-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of people that have applied to the Healthcare Travel Cost Scheme in each of the last five years, broken down by health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) how many of those applicants were approved as eligible for the scheme.","answerText":"My department administers the Health Service Low Income Scheme (LIS) on behalf of the Department of Health (DoH). The role of the Department for Communities (DfC) is to assess claims, issue certificates setting out entitlement, and dealing with all related matters.\n\nPeople apply to the scheme rather than an element of the scheme such as travel costs or dental charges.\n\nThe tables included below provide details of the claims received and processed by DfC business area. It is not possible to provide a further breakdown by Health and Social Care Trust, or the type of support the claimant was seeking help with.\n\nUniversal Credit\n\nYear\tClaims Received\tClaims Allowed\n19/20\t9,000\t8,114\n20/21\t8,814\t6,067\n21/22\t15,998\t14,100\n22/23\t20,067\t17,666\n23/24\t21,976\t21,491\n\nBenefit Processing Centres (Legacy Benefits)\n\nYear\tClaims Received and Processed\tClaims Allowed*\n19/20\t8,196\tData not available\n20/21\t4,315\tData not available\n21/22\t4,682\tData not available\n22/23\t4,807\tData not available\n23/24\t4,936\t4,097\n\n*Data on claims allowed within this business area is only available for 2023/24\n\nYear\tClaims Received and Processed\tClaims Allowed\n19/20\t927\t915\n20/21\t890\t838\n21/22\t1064\t1063\n22/23\t887\t876\n23/24\t867\t860\n\nPension Services","answerHtml":"My department administers the Health Service Low Income Scheme (LIS) on behalf of the Department of Health (DoH). The role of the Department for Communities (DfC) is to assess claims, issue certificates setting out entitlement, and dealing with all related matters.
People apply to the scheme rather than an element of the scheme such as travel costs or dental charges.
The tables included below provide details of the claims received and processed by DfC business area. It is not possible to provide a further breakdown by Health and Social Care Trust, or the type of support the claimant was seeking help with.
Universal Credit
| Year | Claims Received | Claims Allowed |
| 19/20 | 9,000 | 8,114 |
| 20/21 | 8,814 | 6,067 |
| 21/22 | 15,998 | 14,100 |
| 22/23 | 20,067 | 17,666 |
| 23/24 | 21,976 | 21,491 |
Benefit Processing Centres (Legacy Benefits)
| Year | Claims Received and Processed | Claims Allowed* |
| 19/20 | 8,196 | Data not available |
| 20/21 | 4,315 | Data not available |
| 21/22 | 4,682 | Data not available |
| 22/23 | 4,807 | Data not available |
| 23/24 | 4,936 | 4,097 |
*Data on claims allowed within this business area is only available for 2023/24
| Year | Claims Received and Processed | Claims Allowed |
| 19/20 | 927 | 915 |
| 20/21 | 890 | 838 |
| 21/22 | 1064 | 1063 |
| 22/23 | 887 | 876 |
| 23/24 | 867 | 860 |
Pension Services
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013172%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405007","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405007"}},{"id":"405006","reference":"AQW 13171/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-10","answerBy":"2024-06-25","answered":"2024-07-02","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 many service users are attending buildings-based day care, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) whether the service users require transport.","answerText":"No of service users attending buildings-based day care, broken down by Programme of Care and by Health and Social Care Trust, (as of May 2024).\n\nTrust\tLearning Disability\tOlder People\tPhysical Disability\tMental Health\nBHSCT\t542\t860\tSee note\t161\nNHSCT\t721\t515\t216\tSee note\nSEHSCT\t494\t384\t46\t115\nSHSCT\t337\t340\t60\tNo Statutory Day Care\nWHSCT\t460\t287\t103\t405\n\nBHSCT figure of 860 is a composite of the Older People and Physical Disability Programmes.\n\nNHSCT Mental Health programme of care is included in the Older People and Physical Disability figures of 515 and 216 respectively.\n\nNumber of service users assessed as requiring transport broken down by Programme of Care and Health and Social Care Trust (as of May 2024).\n\nTrust\tLearning Disability\tOlder People\tPhysical Disability\tMental Health\nBHSCT\t385\t675\tSee note\nbelow\t62\nNHSCT\t486\t810\tSee note below\tSee note below\nSEHSCT\t316\t140\t38\t15\nSHSCT\t337\t209\t50\tNo statutory day care\nWHSCT\t411\t233\t83\t31\n\nBHSCT figure of 675 is a composite of the Older People and Physical Disability Programmes\n\nNHSCT figure of 810 is a composite of the Older People, Physical Disability and Mental Health programmes.\n\nMy Department remains committed to the provision of a high-quality buildings-based day care and will continue to work alongside Trusts and independent sector providers to maintain and support service provision.","answerHtml":"No of service users attending buildings-based day care, broken down by Programme of Care and by Health and Social Care Trust, (as of May 2024).
| Trust | Learning Disability | Older People | Physical Disability | Mental Health |
| BHSCT | 542 | 860 | See note | 161 |
| NHSCT | 721 | 515 | 216 | See note |
| SEHSCT | 494 | 384 | 46 | 115 |
| SHSCT | 337 | 340 | 60 | No Statutory Day Care |
| WHSCT | 460 | 287 | 103 | 405 |
BHSCT figure of 860 is a composite of the Older People and Physical Disability Programmes.
NHSCT Mental Health programme of care is included in the Older People and Physical Disability figures of 515 and 216 respectively.
Number of service users assessed as requiring transport broken down by Programme of Care and Health and Social Care Trust (as of May 2024).
| Trust | Learning Disability | Older People | Physical Disability | Mental Health |
| BHSCT | 385 | 675 | See note below | 62 |
| NHSCT | 486 | 810 | See note below | See note below |
| SEHSCT | 316 | 140 | 38 | 15 |
| SHSCT | 337 | 209 | 50 | No statutory day care |
| WHSCT | 411 | 233 | 83 | 31 |
BHSCT figure of 675 is a composite of the Older People and Physical Disability Programmes
NHSCT figure of 810 is a composite of the Older People, Physical Disability and Mental Health programmes.
My Department remains committed to the provision of a high-quality buildings-based day care and will continue to work alongside Trusts and independent sector providers to maintain and support service provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013171%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405006","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405006"}},{"id":"405005","reference":"AQW 13170/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-10","answerBy":"2024-06-25","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, pursuant to AQW 12140/22-27, for a breakdown of the (i) number of individuals supported; (ii) number of journeys made; and (iii) average journey mileage.","answerText":"Five of the Health and Social Care Trusts have advised that they do not hold this level of detail (i. individuals, ii. journeys and iii. mileage) within their central systems and it would require an extensive manual exercise to extract such information at a disproportionate cost.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NAIS) have advised they do not hold this level of detail (i. individuals and iii. mileage) within their central systems and it would require an extensive manual exercise to extract such information at a disproportionate cost. NIAS do however have readily available data on the number of journeys made per year which is outlined in Table 1 below: -\n\nFinancial Year\tTaxi Journeys\tCosts (£)\n2019-20\t7027\t206,470\n2020-21\t15462\t795,364\n2021-22\t16871\t852,767\n2022-23\t27180\t2,587,768\n2023-24\t28198\t2,286,768*\nTotal\t94738\t6,728,471\n\n*2023-24 Draft, unaudited, and uncertified figures.","answerHtml":"Five of the Health and Social Care Trusts have advised that they do not hold this level of detail (i. individuals, ii. journeys and iii. mileage) within their central systems and it would require an extensive manual exercise to extract such information at a disproportionate cost.
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NAIS) have advised they do not hold this level of detail (i. individuals and iii. mileage) within their central systems and it would require an extensive manual exercise to extract such information at a disproportionate cost. NIAS do however have readily available data on the number of journeys made per year which is outlined in Table 1 below: -
| Financial Year | Taxi Journeys | Costs (£) |
| 2019-20 | 7027 | 206,470 |
| 2020-21 | 15462 | 795,364 |
| 2021-22 | 16871 | 852,767 |
| 2022-23 | 27180 | 2,587,768 |
| 2023-24 | 28198 | 2,286,768* |
| Total | 94738 | 6,728,471 |
*2023-24 Draft, unaudited, and uncertified figures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013170%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405005","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405005"}},{"id":"404512","reference":"AQW 12996/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-05","answerBy":"2024-06-20","answered":"2024-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following the removal of funding from Eating Disorders Association NI, what action he is taking to ensure those who need one-to-one support for an eating disorder can avail of the appropriate support.","answerText":"There are currently four adult and four children’s Eating Disorder Specialist Teams across the five Health and Social Care Trusts. The Belfast Trust and South Eastern Trust is represented by one team. For individuals requiring one to one support, these teams have developed community based psychological therapy services using evidence-based treatments as per National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance. They work to the Regional Care Pathway for the Treatment of Eating Disorders (2016). The care pathway outlines what people can expect if they are referred for treatment and provides summary of clinical advice derived from evidence-based practice. It also includes information to assist people with self-care and accessing other supports before, during and after treatment.\n\nThe Regional Eating Disorder Network Group (REDNG) chaired by officials from my Department ensures local developments are coherent and standardised as far as possible. Representation on the REDNG is lifespan. It includes individuals from Department of Health’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group and policy, Public Health Agency, Health and Social Care Trusts including, Eating Disorder Service Clinical Leads, Team Leads and Clinical Service Managers, Psychology nominee (nominated on behalf of psychology services in all Trusts), experts by experience encompassing the voluntary sector, service users and carers, Trust service managers.\n\nThe role of the REDNG is to promote the uniformity of approaches to patients across Trusts and share best practice and learning from service developments. It provides a consistent and equitable approach across NI to the planning and commissioning of high quality, effective and accessible treatment for service users. Standards are based upon those laid out by the Royal College of Psychiatrists and NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence). REDNG currently fulfil that function, aiming to:\n\n•improve outcomes for those who require Eating Disorder Services\n\n•promote collaborative working between the Strategic Planning and Performance Group, Trusts, Department of Health Policy, Statutory Services and the Community & Voluntary Sector\n\n•involve service users and carers in service developments\n\n•ensure workforce development and sustainability\n\n•address any teaching and training needs\n\n•establish/promote gold standard clinical practice\n\nCurrently a clinical lead and a 0.5wte Network Manager are being recruited for the REDNG in order to improve eating disorder identification and treatment.\n\nAction 29 of the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 commits to ensure there are specialist interventions available to those who need it. 29d commits to enhance the regional eating disorder service. A business case is in development in relation to Action 29 d\n\nThe Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 notes provision of services for people with an eating disorder, recognising the benefits of REDNG, whilst acknowledging outcomes for these patients could be improved. In particular, evidence suggests that early intervention is key. This means supporting services to offer specialist treatment to all those who are presenting with eating disorders, including mild to moderate cases, without delay.\n\nThe Strategy highlights the need for further investment so that eating disorder services can achieve optimum staffing levels and skill mix to deliver effective care across the pathways, to include additional medical, nursing, dietetic, psychology, occupational therapy and social work staff working in the community, and providing in-reach to medical and mental health wards. The Strategy also highlights the need for local in-patient units, medical and mental health, with in-reach and clinical consultation and the need to ensure sufficient staffing levels for the management of high-risk patients with eating disorders.","answerHtml":"There are currently four adult and four children’s Eating Disorder Specialist Teams across the five Health and Social Care Trusts. The Belfast Trust and South Eastern Trust is represented by one team. For individuals requiring one to one support, these teams have developed community based psychological therapy services using evidence-based treatments as per National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance. They work to the Regional Care Pathway for the Treatment of Eating Disorders (2016). The care pathway outlines what people can expect if they are referred for treatment and provides summary of clinical advice derived from evidence-based practice. It also includes information to assist people with self-care and accessing other supports before, during and after treatment.
The Regional Eating Disorder Network Group (REDNG) chaired by officials from my Department ensures local developments are coherent and standardised as far as possible. Representation on the REDNG is lifespan. It includes individuals from Department of Health’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group and policy, Public Health Agency, Health and Social Care Trusts including, Eating Disorder Service Clinical Leads, Team Leads and Clinical Service Managers, Psychology nominee (nominated on behalf of psychology services in all Trusts), experts by experience encompassing the voluntary sector, service users and carers, Trust service managers.
The role of the REDNG is to promote the uniformity of approaches to patients across Trusts and share best practice and learning from service developments. It provides a consistent and equitable approach across NI to the planning and commissioning of high quality, effective and accessible treatment for service users. Standards are based upon those laid out by the Royal College of Psychiatrists and NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence). REDNG currently fulfil that function, aiming to:
•improve outcomes for those who require Eating Disorder Services
•promote collaborative working between the Strategic Planning and Performance Group, Trusts, Department of Health Policy, Statutory Services and the Community & Voluntary Sector
•involve service users and carers in service developments
•ensure workforce development and sustainability
•address any teaching and training needs
•establish/promote gold standard clinical practice
Currently a clinical lead and a 0.5wte Network Manager are being recruited for the REDNG in order to improve eating disorder identification and treatment.
Action 29 of the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 commits to ensure there are specialist interventions available to those who need it. 29d commits to enhance the regional eating disorder service. A business case is in development in relation to Action 29 d
The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 notes provision of services for people with an eating disorder, recognising the benefits of REDNG, whilst acknowledging outcomes for these patients could be improved. In particular, evidence suggests that early intervention is key. This means supporting services to offer specialist treatment to all those who are presenting with eating disorders, including mild to moderate cases, without delay.
The Strategy highlights the need for further investment so that eating disorder services can achieve optimum staffing levels and skill mix to deliver effective care across the pathways, to include additional medical, nursing, dietetic, psychology, occupational therapy and social work staff working in the community, and providing in-reach to medical and mental health wards. The Strategy also highlights the need for local in-patient units, medical and mental health, with in-reach and clinical consultation and the need to ensure sufficient staffing levels for the management of high-risk patients with eating disorders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012996%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404512","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404512"}},{"id":"403375","reference":"AQW 12602/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-28","answerBy":"2024-06-12","answered":"2024-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether housing associations are required to meet the standards outlined in the Housing Association Guide to receive funding from his Department; and (ii) what process the Department follows to ensure that the standards specified in the Housing Association Guide in relation to the completion of electrical safety inspections have been met before allocating funding.","answerText":"The Department's Housing Association Guide sets out the design standards required by the Department for all new build social housing schemes that receive Housing Association Grant (HAG).\n\nThere are no standards specified in the Housing Association Guide in relation to the completion of electrical safety inspections in new build social housing properties. This would be a matter for individual Housing Associations (HA). At practical completion stage, Housing Associations will submit to Housing Executive a claim for payment which is conditioned on self-certifications by the HA to include that the dwellings produced comply with my Department’s design and procurement requirements. The Housing Executive do not seek or check electrical testing certificates before payment.","answerHtml":"The Department's Housing Association Guide sets out the design standards required by the Department for all new build social housing schemes that receive Housing Association Grant (HAG).
There are no standards specified in the Housing Association Guide in relation to the completion of electrical safety inspections in new build social housing properties. This would be a matter for individual Housing Associations (HA). At practical completion stage, Housing Associations will submit to Housing Executive a claim for payment which is conditioned on self-certifications by the HA to include that the dwellings produced comply with my Department’s design and procurement requirements. The Housing Executive do not seek or check electrical testing certificates before payment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012602%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403375","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403375"}},{"id":"403118","reference":"AQW 12538/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-24","answerBy":"2024-06-11","answered":"2024-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant AQW 11728/22-27, to detail the terms and conditions of the review.","answerText":"The terms of reference for the review of the Departmental guidance “Integration works” are as follows:\n\nTerms of Reference for the Review of “Integration Works” guidance\n\nIntroduction\n\nSchools transform to integrated status through the statutory Development Proposal process, which is laid out in the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989. A proposal is published, consulted on and a decision taken by the Education Minister or, in the absence of a Minister, by the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Education.\n\nThe Department’s current guidance to support schools considering transforming to either controlled integrated or grant maintained integrated status “Integration Works” was published in 2017.\n\nThe Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 gained Royal Assent on 26 April 2022 following its passage through the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Act came into operation on 26 October 2022.\n\nThe Act amends the previous duty on the Department under Article 64 of the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 to encourage and facilitate the development of integrated education. Now the duty includes “support” which is defined in Section 5 of the Act.\n\nThe Act also amends the definition of integrated education to mean “the education together, in an integrated school, of\n\nthose of different cultures and religious beliefs and of none, including reasonable numbers of both Protestant and Roman Catholic children or young persons;\n\nthose who are experiencing socio-economic deprivation and those who are not; and\n\nthose of different abilities.”\n\nThe Act further defines an integrated school as one which:\n\n“a) intentionally supports, protects and advances an ethos of diversity, respect and understanding between those of different cultures and religious beliefs and of none, between those of different socio-economic backgrounds and between those of different abilities, and\n\n(b)has acquired—\n\n(i)grant-maintained integrated status, or\n\n(ii)controlled integrated status\n\nunder the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989.”\n\nObjective of the Review\n\nThe objective of the review of the “Integration Works” guidance is to ensure it:\n\nreflects the new definitions, requirements and statutory duties of the Integrated Education Act;\n\ncontains up to date and relevant information on the transformation process in line with the statutory framework set out in the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989, as amended by the Integrated Education Act;\n\nreflects experience gained since the last review;\n\nis clear and easily understandable by parents, schools, Boards of Governors and relevant Arm’s Length Bodies (ALBs) providing support and information to schools seeking to transform, including highlighting sources of funding and advice;\n\naligns with key Departmental policies, in particular the implementation of the Sustainable Schools Policy (SSP) through Area Planning; and\n\nis clear about the information that will be considered as part of the Area Planning process once schools have reached the Development Proposal stage.\n\nRoles and responsibilities\n\nThe Irish Medium and Integrated Education (IMIE) team within the Department will take forward the review of Integration Works. A working group consisting of representatives from key policy teams across the Department will be established for drafting purposes. The IMIE team will ensure the Implementation Team for the Integrated Education Act within the Department is kept updated.\n\nThe Department will engage with relevant stakeholders, such as the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE), the Education Authority (EA), the Controlled Schools Support Council (CSSC) the Integrated Education Fund (IEF) and principals, as required to ensure the experience of schools that have already gone through the transformation process is considered to help inform the updated guidance.\n\nThe review will offer the opportunity to build into the guidance appropriate learning from relevant stakeholders and the chance to clarify any queries that have arisen since the publication of the current guidance e.g. over terms, definitions and processes.\n\nMembership of Working Group – Head of relevant policy team for Departmental teams\n\nDE IMIE team – Chair and lead on drafting.\n\nDE Area Planning.\n\nDE Pre-School Education Programme team as needed.\n\nDE Shared Education and Community Relations team as needed.\n\nRelevant stakeholders as needed.\n\nKey milestones to be achieved by the review\n\nThe review will focus on working through the steps necessary to deliver the objectives set out at paragraph 7 of these Terms of Reference. The process of transformation follows legal requirements set out in the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 and the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.\n\nDrafting will therefore be undertaken by the Department, incorporating engagement with relevant stakeholders as the guidance is reviewed. Content and accuracy checks will form part of the drafting process to ensure the revised guidance considers all the relevant issues identified in partnership with stakeholders, including experience gained since the last review.\n\nThe key stages of the review will be as follows.\n\nStage\tTask\tDelivery lead\n1.\tIdentification of issues\tThe Department alongside relevant stakeholders\n2.\tUpdated drafting of guidance\tThe Department\n3.\tDissemination of updated draft\tThe Department\n4.\tEngagement on updated draft\tThe Department alongside relevant stakeholders\n5.\tPiloting any new arrangements as required\tThe Department alongside relevant stakeholders\n\nTiming of each stage will be driven by the underpinning objective to provide updated guidance in a timely manner for schools considering transformation. This includes ensuring that guidance is clear about the information that will be considered as part of the Area Planning process once schools have reached the Development Proposal stage. The review will commence in July 2023.","answerHtml":"The terms of reference for the review of the Departmental guidance “Integration works” are as follows:
Terms of Reference for the Review of “Integration Works” guidance
Introduction
Schools transform to integrated status through the statutory Development Proposal process, which is laid out in the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989. A proposal is published, consulted on and a decision taken by the Education Minister or, in the absence of a Minister, by the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Education.
The Department’s current guidance to support schools considering transforming to either controlled integrated or grant maintained integrated status “Integration Works” was published in 2017.
The Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 gained Royal Assent on 26 April 2022 following its passage through the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Act came into operation on 26 October 2022.
The Act amends the previous duty on the Department under Article 64 of the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 to encourage and facilitate the development of integrated education. Now the duty includes “support” which is defined in Section 5 of the Act.
The Act also amends the definition of integrated education to mean “the education together, in an integrated school, of
those of different cultures and religious beliefs and of none, including reasonable numbers of both Protestant and Roman Catholic children or young persons;
those who are experiencing socio-economic deprivation and those who are not; and
those of different abilities.”
The Act further defines an integrated school as one which:
“a) intentionally supports, protects and advances an ethos of diversity, respect and understanding between those of different cultures and religious beliefs and of none, between those of different socio-economic backgrounds and between those of different abilities, and
(b)has acquired—
(i)grant-maintained integrated status, or
(ii)controlled integrated status
under the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989.”
Objective of the Review
The objective of the review of the “Integration Works” guidance is to ensure it:
reflects the new definitions, requirements and statutory duties of the Integrated Education Act;
contains up to date and relevant information on the transformation process in line with the statutory framework set out in the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989, as amended by the Integrated Education Act;
reflects experience gained since the last review;
is clear and easily understandable by parents, schools, Boards of Governors and relevant Arm’s Length Bodies (ALBs) providing support and information to schools seeking to transform, including highlighting sources of funding and advice;
aligns with key Departmental policies, in particular the implementation of the Sustainable Schools Policy (SSP) through Area Planning; and
is clear about the information that will be considered as part of the Area Planning process once schools have reached the Development Proposal stage.
Roles and responsibilities
The Irish Medium and Integrated Education (IMIE) team within the Department will take forward the review of Integration Works. A working group consisting of representatives from key policy teams across the Department will be established for drafting purposes. The IMIE team will ensure the Implementation Team for the Integrated Education Act within the Department is kept updated.
The Department will engage with relevant stakeholders, such as the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE), the Education Authority (EA), the Controlled Schools Support Council (CSSC) the Integrated Education Fund (IEF) and principals, as required to ensure the experience of schools that have already gone through the transformation process is considered to help inform the updated guidance.
The review will offer the opportunity to build into the guidance appropriate learning from relevant stakeholders and the chance to clarify any queries that have arisen since the publication of the current guidance e.g. over terms, definitions and processes.
Membership of Working Group – Head of relevant policy team for Departmental teams
DE IMIE team – Chair and lead on drafting.
DE Area Planning.
DE Pre-School Education Programme team as needed.
DE Shared Education and Community Relations team as needed.
Relevant stakeholders as needed.
Key milestones to be achieved by the review
The review will focus on working through the steps necessary to deliver the objectives set out at paragraph 7 of these Terms of Reference. The process of transformation follows legal requirements set out in the Education Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 and the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.
Drafting will therefore be undertaken by the Department, incorporating engagement with relevant stakeholders as the guidance is reviewed. Content and accuracy checks will form part of the drafting process to ensure the revised guidance considers all the relevant issues identified in partnership with stakeholders, including experience gained since the last review.
The key stages of the review will be as follows.
| Stage | Task | Delivery lead |
| 1. | Identification of issues | The Department alongside relevant stakeholders |
| 2. | Updated drafting of guidance | The Department |
| 3. | Dissemination of updated draft | The Department |
| 4. | Engagement on updated draft | The Department alongside relevant stakeholders |
| 5. | Piloting any new arrangements as required | The Department alongside relevant stakeholders |
Timing of each stage will be driven by the underpinning objective to provide updated guidance in a timely manner for schools considering transformation. This includes ensuring that guidance is clear about the information that will be considered as part of the Area Planning process once schools have reached the Development Proposal stage. The review will commence in July 2023.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012538%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403118","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403118"}},{"id":"402964","reference":"AQW 12474/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-10","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 to detail (i) his Department's process for assessing the income of persons in receipt of Carer's Allowance; (ii) how often this process is carried out; and (iii) the timeframe for notifying a carer of an overpayment.","answerText":"A person’s income is assessed using information provided on their application form or reported in a change of circumstances, which is then verified using His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs information. Where earnings are intermittent, they can be averaged. Allowable deductions are considered in all cases and include National Insurance Contributions, Income Tax, half of any personal or occupational pension contributions, and other expenses related to a person’s work.\n\nEarnings are checked for each new claim and any time a change to a customer’s circumstances is reported. Where a customer has an irregular pattern of earnings, for example seasonal workers, monthly earnings checks are put in place to ensure that earnings do not exceed £151 per week after deductions. The income of self-employed people is subject to an annual review in line with the financial year for their business.\n\nIn 2023/24, overpayment notifications were issued to Carers Allowance customers within one week of an overpayment being identified.","answerHtml":"A person’s income is assessed using information provided on their application form or reported in a change of circumstances, which is then verified using His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs information. Where earnings are intermittent, they can be averaged. Allowable deductions are considered in all cases and include National Insurance Contributions, Income Tax, half of any personal or occupational pension contributions, and other expenses related to a person’s work.
Earnings are checked for each new claim and any time a change to a customer’s circumstances is reported. Where a customer has an irregular pattern of earnings, for example seasonal workers, monthly earnings checks are put in place to ensure that earnings do not exceed £151 per week after deductions. The income of self-employed people is subject to an annual review in line with the financial year for their business.
In 2023/24, overpayment notifications were issued to Carers Allowance customers within one week of an overpayment being identified.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012474%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402964","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402964"}},{"id":"402963","reference":"AQW 12473/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-10","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 when he or his officials met Department for Work and Pensions officials to discuss a review of Carer's Allowance.","answerText":"My Department regularly engages with the Department for Work and Pensions on a range of social security policy and legislation matters, including those relating to Carer’s Allowance.","answerHtml":"My Department regularly engages with the Department for Work and Pensions on a range of social security policy and legislation matters, including those relating to Carer’s Allowance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012473%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402963","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402963"}},{"id":"402962","reference":"AQW 12472/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-10","answered":"2024-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) how much opticians are permitted to charge for the Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service; and (ii) whether he is monitoring the charges.","answerText":"NI PEARS is an HSC funded clinical assessment service provided to eligible patients which remunerates optometry contractors for the clinical assessment and management of a patient presenting with a new and acute eye problem such as red eye, sudden visual loss, etc. For eligible patients there is no charge to the patient for the NI PEARS clinical assessment.\n\nEligible patients may receive one NI PEARS assessment and, where clinically necessary/indicated, one follow-up NI PEARS assessment for a new ophthalmic clinical condition once per year.\n\nSome patients accessing NI PEARS will be advised, in line with clinical management guidelines, to use ophthalmic medications and treatments to manage their eye condition. This recommended treatment(s) may incur a cost to the patient. Where a treatment is available to purchase as an ‘over the counter’ item this is recommended in line with current HSC guidelines.\n\nNI PEARS service activity levels and associated costs are monitored on a monthly basis by the Directorate of Primary Care, SPPG.","answerHtml":"NI PEARS is an HSC funded clinical assessment service provided to eligible patients which remunerates optometry contractors for the clinical assessment and management of a patient presenting with a new and acute eye problem such as red eye, sudden visual loss, etc. For eligible patients there is no charge to the patient for the NI PEARS clinical assessment.
Eligible patients may receive one NI PEARS assessment and, where clinically necessary/indicated, one follow-up NI PEARS assessment for a new ophthalmic clinical condition once per year.
Some patients accessing NI PEARS will be advised, in line with clinical management guidelines, to use ophthalmic medications and treatments to manage their eye condition. This recommended treatment(s) may incur a cost to the patient. Where a treatment is available to purchase as an ‘over the counter’ item this is recommended in line with current HSC guidelines.
NI PEARS service activity levels and associated costs are monitored on a monthly basis by the Directorate of Primary Care, SPPG.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012472%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402962","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402962"}},{"id":"402961","reference":"AQW 12471/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-10","answered":"2024-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to provide a list of all dental surgeries; and (ii) to detail which of these dental surgeries no longer accept NHS patients.","answerText":"The HSCNI Service Finder currently lists 378 dental practices in Northern Ireland. The Service Finder can be accessed at: https://online.hscni.net/hsc-service-finder/\n\nThe number of dental practices listed in the HSCNI Service Finder does not include a small cohort of practices which have no Health Service commitment whatsoever.\n\nUnfortunately, the Department of Health is unable to hold and maintain a list of dental practices which are no longer accepting new Health Service patients.","answerHtml":"The HSCNI Service Finder currently lists 378 dental practices in Northern Ireland. The Service Finder can be accessed at: https://online.hscni.net/hsc-service-finder/
The number of dental practices listed in the HSCNI Service Finder does not include a small cohort of practices which have no Health Service commitment whatsoever.
Unfortunately, the Department of Health is unable to hold and maintain a list of dental practices which are no longer accepting new Health Service patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012471%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402961","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402961"}},{"id":"402960","reference":"AQW 12470/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-10","answered":"2024-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the actions he is taking along with Health and Social Care Trusts to ensure all adults have access to an NHS dentist.","answerText":"A key part of the access issues facing patients in General Dental Services were the rates being paid to our dentists for treatment. The absence of Executive Ministers had meant that it had not been possible to progress the recommended pay uplifts for staffing groups for 2023/24. In March 2024, a 6% pay uplift for General Dental Services for 2023/24, in line with recommendations contained in the 51st Doctors and Dentists Review Board report, was announced. This uplift comes with a 7.3% uplift to non-staff expenses for 2023/24, with a 3% recurrent award in future years.\n\nIn March 2024 the Department also announced a £9.2m investment package for General Dental Services to include:\n\n£1m for newly registered child patients through the reestablishment of the Enhanced Child Examination Scheme. This scheme provides children aged 0-10 who have not been registered with a dentist with an examination, individualised oral health advice and age-specific fluoride application to teeth to assist with preventing dental decay;\n\n£4.3m to fund a 30% enhancement to fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions and root canal treatment for 2024/25, to support public access to priority treatments; and\n\n£3.9m for the treatment of high priority unregistered patients through a Dental Access Scheme.\n\nUntil the Dental Access Scheme is implemented, a pilot scheme will continue to run to provide appointments to unregistered patients who require emergency dental treatment during the working week. If a patient is not registered with a dentist, requires emergency dental treatment, and has been unable to access an appointment, they can contact their local Strategic Planning and Performance Group office for advice.","answerHtml":"A key part of the access issues facing patients in General Dental Services were the rates being paid to our dentists for treatment. The absence of Executive Ministers had meant that it had not been possible to progress the recommended pay uplifts for staffing groups for 2023/24. In March 2024, a 6% pay uplift for General Dental Services for 2023/24, in line with recommendations contained in the 51st Doctors and Dentists Review Board report, was announced. This uplift comes with a 7.3% uplift to non-staff expenses for 2023/24, with a 3% recurrent award in future years.
In March 2024 the Department also announced a £9.2m investment package for General Dental Services to include:
£1m for newly registered child patients through the reestablishment of the Enhanced Child Examination Scheme. This scheme provides children aged 0-10 who have not been registered with a dentist with an examination, individualised oral health advice and age-specific fluoride application to teeth to assist with preventing dental decay;
£4.3m to fund a 30% enhancement to fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions and root canal treatment for 2024/25, to support public access to priority treatments; and
£3.9m for the treatment of high priority unregistered patients through a Dental Access Scheme.
Until the Dental Access Scheme is implemented, a pilot scheme will continue to run to provide appointments to unregistered patients who require emergency dental treatment during the working week. If a patient is not registered with a dentist, requires emergency dental treatment, and has been unable to access an appointment, they can contact their local Strategic Planning and Performance Group office for advice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012470%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402960","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402960"}},{"id":"403552","reference":"AQO 519/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-03","answered":"2024-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline which school capital projects will be taken forward in the 2024-25 financial year.","answerText":"(10) AQO 519/22-27\n\nQuestion:\n\nTo ask the Minister of Education to outline which school capital projects will be taken forward in the 2024-25 financial year.\n\nKellie Armstrong, MLA - Strangford\n\nAnswer:\n\nI was very pleased to announce on 28th May 2024, that 15 important new build and extension projects, for schools from all sectors, can now proceed to construction procurement. This is in addition to those capital build projects that are already onsite and under construction.\n\nThis announcement will see 15 schools benefiting from new state of the art facilities for young people from Belfast to Ballymena to Enniskillen and beyond. It will also provide a welcome boost to the construction industry over the next number of years.\n\nThis announcement is in addition to the over £50 million which has been earmarked to support Special Educational Needs and the planned commencement of construction of the flagship Strule Shared Education Campus in Omagh, which will provide five new post-primary schools.\n\nI also intend to launch a new programme of curriculum led investment to support and enhance the delivery of the curriculum in our schools. Potential schemes in this area include specialist curriculum accommodation at post-primary; outdoor play and PE in the primary phase and curriculum resources and equipment.\n\nIt is my priority to ensure the educational experiences of as many children and young people as possible across Northern Ireland are impacted positively by capital investment.","answerHtml":"(10) AQO 519/22-27
Question:
To ask the Minister of Education to outline which school capital projects will be taken forward in the 2024-25 financial year.
Kellie Armstrong, MLA - Strangford
Answer:
I was very pleased to announce on 28th May 2024, that 15 important new build and extension projects, for schools from all sectors, can now proceed to construction procurement. This is in addition to those capital build projects that are already onsite and under construction.
This announcement will see 15 schools benefiting from new state of the art facilities for young people from Belfast to Ballymena to Enniskillen and beyond. It will also provide a welcome boost to the construction industry over the next number of years.
This announcement is in addition to the over £50 million which has been earmarked to support Special Educational Needs and the planned commencement of construction of the flagship Strule Shared Education Campus in Omagh, which will provide five new post-primary schools.
I also intend to launch a new programme of curriculum led investment to support and enhance the delivery of the curriculum in our schools. Potential schemes in this area include specialist curriculum accommodation at post-primary; outdoor play and PE in the primary phase and curriculum resources and equipment.
It is my priority to ensure the educational experiences of as many children and young people as possible across Northern Ireland are impacted positively by capital investment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20519%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403552","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403552"}},{"id":"403558","reference":"AQO 498/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-03","answered":"2024-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, further to the meeting with her precedessor and the Minister of Education, whether she intends to reinstate the Careers Advisory Forum.","answerText":"Oral Question No 4 – AQO 498/22-27\n\nAt my meeting with the Education Minister, we discussed the need to enhance the careers ecosystem. Collaboration and co-design with users and stakeholders will be essential to the success of this work. This is why a Careers Portal stakeholder event is taking place on 5th June with attendees coming from across the system.\n\nMore broadly, as part of our work to enhance the careers services, officials in both Departments are currently considering the potential role of the Careers Advisory Forum to embed system level engagement as part of a joint programme of work.","answerHtml":"Oral Question No 4 – AQO 498/22-27
At my meeting with the Education Minister, we discussed the need to enhance the careers ecosystem. Collaboration and co-design with users and stakeholders will be essential to the success of this work. This is why a Careers Portal stakeholder event is taking place on 5th June with attendees coming from across the system.
More broadly, as part of our work to enhance the careers services, officials in both Departments are currently considering the potential role of the Careers Advisory Forum to embed system level engagement as part of a joint programme of work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20498%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403558","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403558"}},{"id":"402095","reference":"AQW 12142/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-17","answerBy":"2024-06-04","answered":"2024-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether Health and Social Care Trusts have a (i) policy; and (ii) statutory responsibility, to provide transportation to patients who require, or would benefit from, access to day opportunities.","answerText":"There is a statutory responsibility to provide transport for service users attending buildings-based day care.\n\nIn 2014, the Department of Health finalised a model for Day Opportunities, aligned to the aspirations of Equal Lives and in collaboration with NI Executive Departments. It aimed to promote a culture of social inclusion, greater independence, and a good quality of life.\n\nThese services should be discrete from traditional buildings-based Day Care facilities and access to the Day Opportunities services should be in non-segregated general transport provision. Day Opportunities should aim to empower individuals to access and participate in activities independently.\n\nIt is recognised that access to public transport can be difficult on occasion. Trusts do explore alternative transport methods on a case by case basis to enable access to Day Opportunities. The Department is aware that people supported use Community Transport to access Day Opportunities. Officials have engaged in a cross-departmental working group with DfI and DAERA to explore opportunities for better collaboration.","answerHtml":"There is a statutory responsibility to provide transport for service users attending buildings-based day care.
In 2014, the Department of Health finalised a model for Day Opportunities, aligned to the aspirations of Equal Lives and in collaboration with NI Executive Departments. It aimed to promote a culture of social inclusion, greater independence, and a good quality of life.
These services should be discrete from traditional buildings-based Day Care facilities and access to the Day Opportunities services should be in non-segregated general transport provision. Day Opportunities should aim to empower individuals to access and participate in activities independently.
It is recognised that access to public transport can be difficult on occasion. Trusts do explore alternative transport methods on a case by case basis to enable access to Day Opportunities. The Department is aware that people supported use Community Transport to access Day Opportunities. Officials have engaged in a cross-departmental working group with DfI and DAERA to explore opportunities for better collaboration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012142%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402095"}},{"id":"402094","reference":"AQW 12141/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-17","answerBy":"2024-06-04","answered":"2024-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the criteria used by Health and Social Care Trusts to determine whether patients are eligible to receive a funded public taxi for travel to or from hospital.","answerText":"Each Health and Social Care Trust has its own policies and procedures which adhere to eligibility criteria set out within the Healthcare Travel Cost Scheme (HTCS). There are 3 overarching criteria used to assess eligibility for help with travel costs under the HTCS:-\n\nIn receipt of one of the qualifying benefits or allowances or meet the eligibility criteria for the NHS Low Income Scheme.\n\nIn receipt of a referral for specialist care from a healthcare professional to a specialist or hospital for further NHS treatment or tests.\n\nAppointment must be on a separate visit to when the referral was made.\n\nThe HTCS provides for re-imbursement of full travel costs only when using the cheapest form of public transport available, including any concessions or promotions. This means that patients should endeavour to use the cheapest, most appropriate means of transport to attend an appointment.\n\nIf it is not possible to use public transport or a private car and dependent on the patients’ individual circumstances, a reasonable taxi fare may be refunded on production of a valid receipt from the taxi firm.","answerHtml":"Each Health and Social Care Trust has its own policies and procedures which adhere to eligibility criteria set out within the Healthcare Travel Cost Scheme (HTCS). There are 3 overarching criteria used to assess eligibility for help with travel costs under the HTCS:-
In receipt of one of the qualifying benefits or allowances or meet the eligibility criteria for the NHS Low Income Scheme.
In receipt of a referral for specialist care from a healthcare professional to a specialist or hospital for further NHS treatment or tests.
Appointment must be on a separate visit to when the referral was made.
The HTCS provides for re-imbursement of full travel costs only when using the cheapest form of public transport available, including any concessions or promotions. This means that patients should endeavour to use the cheapest, most appropriate means of transport to attend an appointment.
If it is not possible to use public transport or a private car and dependent on the patients’ individual circumstances, a reasonable taxi fare may be refunded on production of a valid receipt from the taxi firm.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012141%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402094","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402094"}},{"id":"402093","reference":"AQW 12140/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-17","answerBy":"2024-06-04","answered":"2024-05-28","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 public taxis for patients in the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"As advised by Trusts, the detailed spend on public taxis for patients in the last five years is outlined below:-\n\n2019/20£m\t2020/21£m\t2021/22£m\t2022/23£m\t2023/24*£m\nNorthern Trust\t1,069\t567\t1,065\t1,212\t1,436\nBelfast Trust\t1,635\t1,419\t1,897\t1,996\t1,742\nS. Eastern Trust\t1,399\t1,256\t1,847\t1,894\t1,772\nSouthern Trust\t1,573\t938\t1,518\t1,909\t2,152\nWestern Trust\t819\t695\t844\t853\t599\nNIAS\t206\t795\t853\t2,588\t2,287\nTotal\t6,701\t5,670\t8,024\t10,452\t9,988\n\n*Note. 23/24 figures are draft, unaudited and uncertified figures.","answerHtml":"As advised by Trusts, the detailed spend on public taxis for patients in the last five years is outlined below:-
| 2019/20£m | 2020/21£m | 2021/22£m | 2022/23£m | 2023/24*£m | |
| Northern Trust | 1,069 | 567 | 1,065 | 1,212 | 1,436 |
| Belfast Trust | 1,635 | 1,419 | 1,897 | 1,996 | 1,742 |
| S. Eastern Trust | 1,399 | 1,256 | 1,847 | 1,894 | 1,772 |
| Southern Trust | 1,573 | 938 | 1,518 | 1,909 | 2,152 |
| Western Trust | 819 | 695 | 844 | 853 | 599 |
| NIAS | 206 | 795 | 853 | 2,588 | 2,287 |
| Total | 6,701 | 5,670 | 8,024 | 10,452 | 9,988 |
*Note. 23/24 figures are draft, unaudited and uncertified figures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012140%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402093","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402093"}},{"id":"402092","reference":"AQW 12139/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-17","answerBy":"2024-06-04","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 responsibilities that Health and Social Care Trusts have to provide transport for patients when arranging a social care package.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012139%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402092","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402092"}},{"id":"402091","reference":"AQW 12138/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-17","answerBy":"2024-06-04","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 whether his Department is plans to review the grant fund for churches and listed buildings.","answerText":"Yes. My department has commissioned research on the condition of listed buildings, including churches, and separate research on the issues faced by owners of listed buildings and scheduled monuments. My Department is due to receive this research by September 24 and it will help to inform decisions on future grant funding for listed churches and buildings.","answerHtml":"Yes. My department has commissioned research on the condition of listed buildings, including churches, and separate research on the issues faced by owners of listed buildings and scheduled monuments. My Department is due to receive this research by September 24 and it will help to inform decisions on future grant funding for listed churches and buildings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012138%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402091","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402091"}},{"id":"401680","reference":"AQW 11984/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-15","answerBy":"2024-05-31","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 AQW 8961/22-27, whether the Minister will commit to increasing the number of shared houses to 300 per year to meet the growing demand for this type of housing development.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Department of Communities (DfC) and Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) are committed to supporting the delivery of a minimum 200 shared social housing units per year as part of the annual Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) target. The Programme for Government Shared Housing Programme is named ‘Housing for All’.\n\nThe ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme is currently supporting 2,476 shared social housing units across 76 developments”. This is detailed in table 1 below.\n\nThe benefits of shared housing, however, extend far beyond those 2476 units as the Housing Associations work with 32 Local Advisory Groups across the shared housing communities. The Advisory Groups support the development and delivery of Good Relations Plans which benefit many communities and individuals, of any tenure, who live within a five-mile radius of the new development. The learning and networks developed through the “Housing for All” Shared Housing programme can therefore be applied widely.\n\nTable 1 - ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme Schemes and Units by Year including the initial 10 shared housing developments through the T:buc strategy.\n\nYear\tNumber of Schemes\tActual Units\n2023/24\t8\t539 (283 Units receive GRS funding as cap of 50 per scheme)\n2022/23\t11\t254\n2021/22\t12\t223\n2020/21\t20\t616\n2019/20\t2\t97\n2018/19\t5\t105\n2017/18\t8\t159\nT:BUC 10\t10\t483\n\nIt is expected that this level of shared housing provision will continue, subject to funding availability”.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly at Public.Affairsunit@nihe.gov.uk Making direct contact with the ALB 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 Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Department of Communities (DfC) and Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) are committed to supporting the delivery of a minimum 200 shared social housing units per year as part of the annual Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) target. The Programme for Government Shared Housing Programme is named ‘Housing for All’.
The ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme is currently supporting 2,476 shared social housing units across 76 developments”. This is detailed in table 1 below.
The benefits of shared housing, however, extend far beyond those 2476 units as the Housing Associations work with 32 Local Advisory Groups across the shared housing communities. The Advisory Groups support the development and delivery of Good Relations Plans which benefit many communities and individuals, of any tenure, who live within a five-mile radius of the new development. The learning and networks developed through the “Housing for All” Shared Housing programme can therefore be applied widely.
Table 1 - ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme Schemes and Units by Year including the initial 10 shared housing developments through the T:buc strategy.
| Year | Number of Schemes | Actual Units |
| 2023/24 | 8 | 539 (283 Units receive GRS funding as cap of 50 per scheme) |
| 2022/23 | 11 | 254 |
| 2021/22 | 12 | 223 |
| 2020/21 | 20 | 616 |
| 2019/20 | 2 | 97 |
| 2018/19 | 5 | 105 |
| 2017/18 | 8 | 159 |
| T:BUC 10 | 10 | 483 |
It is expected that this level of shared housing provision will continue, subject to funding availability”.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly at Public.Affairsunit@nihe.gov.uk Making direct contact with the ALB 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%2011984%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401680","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401680"}},{"id":"401679","reference":"AQW 11983/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-15","answerBy":"2024-05-31","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 to detail the action his Department is taking to ensure that Housing Associations are aware of Financial Transactions Capital funding.","answerText":"My Department has used Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) as low cost, long term government loan to help increase the supply of affordable housing products for some time now. It has been working very effectively and is primarily used to support the delivery of shared ownership housing, provided by our delivery partner, Co-Ownership.\n\nWe have made a large commitment to Co-Ownership, allocating £158 million in FTC funding to assist over 4,000 people into home ownership, between 2020 and 2025, through the Co-Own product, as well as providing £12.5m in funding for Rent to Own and £8m for Co-Own for over 55s.\n\nBeyond Co-Ownership, my Department has also previously allocated over £28m in FTC funding to Apex, Choice and Clanmil Housing Associations for the Affordable Housing Loan Fund (AHLF) and Empty Homes Loan Fund (EHLF).\n\nMy officials are also currently working with the Registered Housing Association sector to consider development of a New Build Shared Ownership product which could help increase the supply of affordable homes. We are currently undertaking research to test the viability of such a product and would seek to access FTC funding to support delivery if such a scheme were to be implemented.","answerHtml":"My Department has used Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) as low cost, long term government loan to help increase the supply of affordable housing products for some time now. It has been working very effectively and is primarily used to support the delivery of shared ownership housing, provided by our delivery partner, Co-Ownership.
We have made a large commitment to Co-Ownership, allocating £158 million in FTC funding to assist over 4,000 people into home ownership, between 2020 and 2025, through the Co-Own product, as well as providing £12.5m in funding for Rent to Own and £8m for Co-Own for over 55s.
Beyond Co-Ownership, my Department has also previously allocated over £28m in FTC funding to Apex, Choice and Clanmil Housing Associations for the Affordable Housing Loan Fund (AHLF) and Empty Homes Loan Fund (EHLF).
My officials are also currently working with the Registered Housing Association sector to consider development of a New Build Shared Ownership product which could help increase the supply of affordable homes. We are currently undertaking research to test the viability of such a product and would seek to access FTC funding to support delivery if such a scheme were to be implemented.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011983%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401679"}},{"id":"401678","reference":"AQW 11982/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-15","answerBy":"2024-05-31","answered":"2024-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department has any plans to upskill the voluntary and community sector to ensure that they can access Financial Transactions Capital funding.","answerText":"Using Financial Transactions Capital, my department is making £13m available over three years to Community Finance Ireland, for social loans to organisations in the Voluntary, Community & Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector.\n\nMy department will continue to invest in and support the voluntary and community sector through all available funding streams, including Financial Transactions Capital, where that mechanism is appropriate.\n\nMy department is happy to engage with the Sector where new proposals for use of Financial Transactions Capital funds are submitted. We will work collaboratively to assess, and where appropriate, develop proposals.","answerHtml":"Using Financial Transactions Capital, my department is making £13m available over three years to Community Finance Ireland, for social loans to organisations in the Voluntary, Community & Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector.
My department will continue to invest in and support the voluntary and community sector through all available funding streams, including Financial Transactions Capital, where that mechanism is appropriate.
My department is happy to engage with the Sector where new proposals for use of Financial Transactions Capital funds are submitted. We will work collaboratively to assess, and where appropriate, develop proposals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011982%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401678"}},{"id":"401097","reference":"AQW 11728/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-10","answerBy":"2024-05-28","answered":"2024-05-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the length of time a school transforming to become an integrated school is permitted to take to achieve the appropriate breakdown of children from protestant, catholic, other and no faith backgrounds; and (ii) where this guidance is published.","answerText":"The Department provides guidance on transformation (Integration Works) for schools going through the process. This covers:\n\nPlanning for Transformation\n\nThe Statutory Transformation Process\n\nAfter Approval – Transformation in Practice\n\nand\n\nSources of Advice and Funding\n\nThe guidance is under review (as per action 10 of the Integrated Education (Northern Ireland) Act 2022 strategy and action plan). The review will consider the length of time a school transforming to become an integrated school should take to achieve the appropriate breakdown of children from Protestant, Roman Catholic, other and no faith backgrounds.","answerHtml":"The Department provides guidance on transformation (Integration Works) for schools going through the process. This covers:
Planning for Transformation
The Statutory Transformation Process
After Approval – Transformation in Practice
and
Sources of Advice and Funding
The guidance is under review (as per action 10 of the Integrated Education (Northern Ireland) Act 2022 strategy and action plan). The review will consider the length of time a school transforming to become an integrated school should take to achieve the appropriate breakdown of children from Protestant, Roman Catholic, other and no faith backgrounds.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011728%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401097","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401097"}},{"id":"401096","reference":"AQW 11727/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-10","answerBy":"2024-05-28","answered":"2024-05-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 9489/22-27, for an update on the actions his Department is taking to progress the 26 recommendations contained in the Recommendations to advance Community wealth building in Northern Ireland, published in October 2022.","answerText":"I have not yet considered the Independent Advisory Panel Report, which I understand makes wide ranging and cross cutting recommendations. I am meeting with my officials in due course to discuss potential next steps.","answerHtml":"I have not yet considered the Independent Advisory Panel Report, which I understand makes wide ranging and cross cutting recommendations. I am meeting with my officials in due course to discuss potential next steps.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011727%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401096"}},{"id":"401095","reference":"AQW 11726/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-10","answerBy":"2024-05-28","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 what steps his Department has taken to work with (i) the Health and Social Care Trusts; (ii) charities; and (iii) other stakeholders, to increase awareness of ovarian cancer.","answerText":"Cancer prevention is one of the strategic themes within the Cancer Strategy and improved awareness raising of the potential signs and symptoms of cancer is essential in ensuring this. Work is ongoing through the Cancer Programme Board and Cancer Steering Group to progress these important activities. This includes wider collaboration and co-design and co-delivery with a wide range of stakeholders from across the Health and Social Care System, charitable, community and voluntary sectors on the implementation of the related cancer strategy priorities.\n\nThe Public Health Agency also provided a press release in March 2024, to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer during Ovarian Cancer month.\n\nOfficials from my Department continue to engage with key stakeholders across the sector and most recently met with representatives from Target Ovarian Cancer, the UK's leading ovarian cancer charity, on 24th April 2024. The continued working with this and other key stakeholders is an important part of how we can increase awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancer and to allow for earlier diagnosis, treatment and improved outcomes for those with a cancer diagnosis.","answerHtml":"Cancer prevention is one of the strategic themes within the Cancer Strategy and improved awareness raising of the potential signs and symptoms of cancer is essential in ensuring this. Work is ongoing through the Cancer Programme Board and Cancer Steering Group to progress these important activities. This includes wider collaboration and co-design and co-delivery with a wide range of stakeholders from across the Health and Social Care System, charitable, community and voluntary sectors on the implementation of the related cancer strategy priorities.
The Public Health Agency also provided a press release in March 2024, to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer during Ovarian Cancer month.
Officials from my Department continue to engage with key stakeholders across the sector and most recently met with representatives from Target Ovarian Cancer, the UK's leading ovarian cancer charity, on 24th April 2024. The continued working with this and other key stakeholders is an important part of how we can increase awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancer and to allow for earlier diagnosis, treatment and improved outcomes for those with a cancer diagnosis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011726%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401095"}},{"id":"401094","reference":"AQW 11725/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-10","answerBy":"2024-05-28","answered":"2024-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how parental demand data will be collated as required by the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerText":"The ARK research report, issued by the Integrated Education Fund (IEF), titled \"Assessing Demand for Integrated Education in Northern Ireland\", noted that demand for integrated education can be categorised in two parts; (i) societal level inclination towards integrated education, which reflects the general openness of parents and guardians when considering integrated education for their children, and (ii) parental preference made for school admission, which reflects the specific pragmatic choices that parents and guardians make when applying to schools.\n\nThe conclusion of the report states “As outlined in the recent Strategy for Integrated Education in Northern Ireland (Department of Education, 2023b), no single data source or measure will provide the type or range of information needed to measure demand, resulting in the need for a suite of measures.”\n\nTo measure this (and track it over time) DE will:\n\nInclude societal level questions on demand and the factors parents consider when makings school admission decisions in the annual Northern Ireland Life and Times (NILT) survey.\n\nAssess and monitor parental demand for Integrated Education as expressed through school admission preferences through the Education Authority school admissions portal.\n\nUse the EA admissions portal to obtain permission from parents to be surveyed in respect of school admissions preferences and associated factors and,\n\nAnnually carry out a Northern Ireland wide survey of such parents to assess and monitor demand for Integrated Education.\n\nCarry out ad-hoc local surveys of parents to further assess and monitor demand as required.\n\nConsider the outcomes of parental ballots for transformation carried out by Electoral Reform Services.\n\nConsider any other relevant survey data available.\n\nReport on this within the statutory report on Integrated Education as required by the Act.\n\nReview and amend the Integrated Education Strategy following the publication of the Section 10 Report on Integrated Education and all subsequent iterations.","answerHtml":"The ARK research report, issued by the Integrated Education Fund (IEF), titled "Assessing Demand for Integrated Education in Northern Ireland", noted that demand for integrated education can be categorised in two parts; (i) societal level inclination towards integrated education, which reflects the general openness of parents and guardians when considering integrated education for their children, and (ii) parental preference made for school admission, which reflects the specific pragmatic choices that parents and guardians make when applying to schools.
The conclusion of the report states “As outlined in the recent Strategy for Integrated Education in Northern Ireland (Department of Education, 2023b), no single data source or measure will provide the type or range of information needed to measure demand, resulting in the need for a suite of measures.”
To measure this (and track it over time) DE will:
Include societal level questions on demand and the factors parents consider when makings school admission decisions in the annual Northern Ireland Life and Times (NILT) survey.
Assess and monitor parental demand for Integrated Education as expressed through school admission preferences through the Education Authority school admissions portal.
Use the EA admissions portal to obtain permission from parents to be surveyed in respect of school admissions preferences and associated factors and,
Annually carry out a Northern Ireland wide survey of such parents to assess and monitor demand for Integrated Education.
Carry out ad-hoc local surveys of parents to further assess and monitor demand as required.
Consider the outcomes of parental ballots for transformation carried out by Electoral Reform Services.
Consider any other relevant survey data available.
Report on this within the statutory report on Integrated Education as required by the Act.
Review and amend the Integrated Education Strategy following the publication of the Section 10 Report on Integrated Education and all subsequent iterations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011725%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401094","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401094"}},{"id":"401093","reference":"AQW 11724/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-10","answerBy":"2024-05-28","answered":"2024-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when he will provide a revised answer to (i) AQW 5499/22-2; (ii) AQW 5501/22-27; and (iii) AQW 5782/22-27.","answerText":"AQW 5499/22-27 was answered on 21st May 2024.\n\nAQW 5501/22-27 was answered on 23rd May 2024.\n\nAQW 5782/22-27 was answered on 11th November 2024.","answerHtml":"AQW 5499/22-27 was answered on 21st May 2024.
AQW 5501/22-27 was answered on 23rd May 2024.
AQW 5782/22-27 was answered on 11th November 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011724%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401093","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401093"}},{"id":"400836","reference":"AQW 11625/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-09","answerBy":"2024-05-24","answered":"2024-05-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the actions his Department has taken to deliver on each statutory provision of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerText":"As required by legislation, the Department published the Section 10 Report on Integrated Education on 26 April 2024. The report provides details on the work my Department is undertaking to implement the Act. It evaluates the performance of the Department and other education bodies in respect of integrated education, as well as the levels of demand for and supply of integrated education.\n\nThe report also identifies successes and challenges in respect of the provision of integrated education and assesses the extent to which the purpose of integrated education has been achieved.","answerHtml":"As required by legislation, the Department published the Section 10 Report on Integrated Education on 26 April 2024. The report provides details on the work my Department is undertaking to implement the Act. It evaluates the performance of the Department and other education bodies in respect of integrated education, as well as the levels of demand for and supply of integrated education.
The report also identifies successes and challenges in respect of the provision of integrated education and assesses the extent to which the purpose of integrated education has been achieved.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011625%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400836","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400836"}},{"id":"400835","reference":"AQW 11624/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-09","answerBy":"2024-05-24","answered":"2024-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether the uniform grant will be reviewed to take account of the adaptations and changes required to school uniforms for children with disabilities.","answerText":"The current guidance on school uniform policy states that schools should consult widely on proposed uniform policies including with groups representing pupils with special educational needs or disabilities. I plan to launch a public consultation exercise on the review of school uniform policy in June with a view to setting the current non-statutory guidance on a statutory basis.\n\nThe consultation will set out proposals to strengthen the guidance, including ensuring schools take account of particular adaptations or adjustments that may be required for certain groups of pupils as well as consideration of the bands used to determine the level of the uniform grant available to different pupil cohorts.\n\nThe Education Authority is responsible for the determination of the rates of uniform grant. Following the completion of review of school uniform policy, it will be for the EA to take account of the available funding in determining the rates of uniform grant.","answerHtml":"The current guidance on school uniform policy states that schools should consult widely on proposed uniform policies including with groups representing pupils with special educational needs or disabilities. I plan to launch a public consultation exercise on the review of school uniform policy in June with a view to setting the current non-statutory guidance on a statutory basis.
The consultation will set out proposals to strengthen the guidance, including ensuring schools take account of particular adaptations or adjustments that may be required for certain groups of pupils as well as consideration of the bands used to determine the level of the uniform grant available to different pupil cohorts.
The Education Authority is responsible for the determination of the rates of uniform grant. Following the completion of review of school uniform policy, it will be for the EA to take account of the available funding in determining the rates of uniform grant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011624%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400835","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400835"}},{"id":"400834","reference":"AQW 11623/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-09","answerBy":"2024-05-24","answered":"2024-05-15","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 (i) the build progress; and (ii) an expected date of completion for each integrated school being supported through Fresh Start capital monies.","answerText":"The following table summarises the status and actual or expected completion dates for projects funded through Fresh Start. Please note this includes shared education campuses as well as integrated schools.\n\nSchool\tStatus\tCompletion\nDrumlins IPS\tCompleted\tSeptember 2017\nBraidside IPS\tCompleted\tJuly 2020\nEnniskillen IPS\tCompleted\tJanuary 2023\nLimavady SEC\tCompleted\tAugust 2023\nRoe Valley IPS\tCompleted\tDecember 2023\nMill Strand IPS\tIn construction\tSummer 2024\nPhoenix IPS\tIn construction\tSummer 2024\nParkhall IC\tIn construction\tAutumn 2024\nUlidia IC\tIn construction\tEnd 2024\nShimna IC\tIn construction\tSummer 2025\nRowandale IPS\tIn construction\tAutumn 2025\nNew Bridge IC\tIn construction\tEnd 2025\nStrangford IC\tIn construction\tAutumn 2026\nBallycastle SEC\tIn construction\tSummer 2027","answerHtml":"The following table summarises the status and actual or expected completion dates for projects funded through Fresh Start. Please note this includes shared education campuses as well as integrated schools.
| School | Status | Completion |
| Drumlins IPS | Completed | September 2017 |
| Braidside IPS | Completed | July 2020 |
| Enniskillen IPS | Completed | January 2023 |
| Limavady SEC | Completed | August 2023 |
| Roe Valley IPS | Completed | December 2023 |
| Mill Strand IPS | In construction | Summer 2024 |
| Phoenix IPS | In construction | Summer 2024 |
| Parkhall IC | In construction | Autumn 2024 |
| Ulidia IC | In construction | End 2024 |
| Shimna IC | In construction | Summer 2025 |
| Rowandale IPS | In construction | Autumn 2025 |
| New Bridge IC | In construction | End 2025 |
| Strangford IC | In construction | Autumn 2026 |
| Ballycastle SEC | In construction | Summer 2027 |
The Department does not hold information on the allocation of school places. The allocation of school places is an operational function for the Education Authority.
As part of the accountability framework underlying delivery of the Integrated Education Strategy and Action Plan, the Department will however be publishing the percentage of children who obtain their 1st preference Integrated school compared to other sectors by phase. We consider this a more appropriate measure, as the numbers of children in each cohort will change with population trends.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011622%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400833","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400833"}},{"id":"400832","reference":"AQW 11621/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-09","answerBy":"2024-05-24","answered":"2024-06-04","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 2021 consultation on the Local Government Staff Commission.","answerText":"On 15 November 2021 the former Minister for Communities sought the views of stakeholders on whether there were any reasons that the Executive decision in 2014 to dissolve the Local Government Staff Commission should be reconsidered. However, due to the collapse of the Executive, a decision on whether the Local Government Staff Commission should be dissolved was not considered by the former Minister.\n\nAny decision to dissolve the Local Government Staff Commission would need to be considered by the Executive due to its cross-cutting nature.","answerHtml":"On 15 November 2021 the former Minister for Communities sought the views of stakeholders on whether there were any reasons that the Executive decision in 2014 to dissolve the Local Government Staff Commission should be reconsidered. However, due to the collapse of the Executive, a decision on whether the Local Government Staff Commission should be dissolved was not considered by the former Minister.
Any decision to dissolve the Local Government Staff Commission would need to be considered by the Executive due to its cross-cutting nature.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011621%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400832","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400832"}},{"id":"400662","reference":"AQW 11537/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-08","answerBy":"2024-05-23","answered":"2024-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) , as part of his oversight role of local councils, whether any internal reports, updates or communications, including emails, have been produced in relation to Local Development Plans; and (ii) to provide a copy of any such documents issued in each of the last five years.","answerText":"In relation to Local Development Plans (LDPs), my Department has main oversight responsibilities to agree Council’s timetables, to consider plans at submission stage ‘to cause’ an Independent Examination (IE) and also following receipt of Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) IE Reports to direct Councils to adopt to their plan documents.\n\nThe above request to release ongoing policy development and engagement with local councils in the past five years in respect of Local Development Plans, has produced a significant volume of reports, updates, communications, including emails etc and to provide copies of all these communications would be at a disproportionate cost.\n\nFor those plans which are currently under active consideration, the internal consideration process also includes material used as part of the decision-making process. This is subject to my final determination as Minister and therefore my Department cannot disclose information to this extent.\n\nHowever, my Department when issuing Councils with a direction to adopt their plan documents, does provide Explanatory Notes to accompany the directions (where necessary) which explains the Departments reasoning and rationale, if modifications are at variance with the PAC reports. All of this information is available on each of the councils’ websites, once the LDP has been adopted.","answerHtml":"In relation to Local Development Plans (LDPs), my Department has main oversight responsibilities to agree Council’s timetables, to consider plans at submission stage ‘to cause’ an Independent Examination (IE) and also following receipt of Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) IE Reports to direct Councils to adopt to their plan documents.
The above request to release ongoing policy development and engagement with local councils in the past five years in respect of Local Development Plans, has produced a significant volume of reports, updates, communications, including emails etc and to provide copies of all these communications would be at a disproportionate cost.
For those plans which are currently under active consideration, the internal consideration process also includes material used as part of the decision-making process. This is subject to my final determination as Minister and therefore my Department cannot disclose information to this extent.
However, my Department when issuing Councils with a direction to adopt their plan documents, does provide Explanatory Notes to accompany the directions (where necessary) which explains the Departments reasoning and rationale, if modifications are at variance with the PAC reports. All of this information is available on each of the councils’ websites, once the LDP has been adopted.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011537%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400662","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400662"}},{"id":"400661","reference":"AQW 11536/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-08","answerBy":"2024-05-23","answered":"2024-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the oversight role he and his Department has for local councils.","answerText":"District councils are democratically elected independent bodies and as such, neither my Department nor I have an oversight role. However, my Department does have a number of powers of intervention, some of which are also available to other Departments.\n\nThese powers of intervention are summarised in the following table:\n\nThe Local Government Act (NI) 2014\nSection 98\tSection 98 of the 2014 Act permits the Department to direct the Local Government Auditor (after consultation with the Auditor) to conduct a special inspection of a council where it believes that a relevant council may fail to comply with the Performance Improvement provisions set out in Part 12 of the 2014 Act.\nSection 100\tWhere the Department is satisfied that the council is failing or likely to fail with the requirements of Performance Improvement, the Department may direct a council to-\nprepare or amend an improvement plan or to follow specified procedures in relation to such a plan;\ncarry out a review of its exercise of specified functions;\nenter into specified arrangements with another council;\nset specified improvement objectives for itself under section 85.\nAny Department may direct a council to take any action it considers necessary to secure the council’s compliance with the requirements of Performance Improvement.\nWhere this section applies, any Department may direct-\nthat a specified function of a council must be exercised by that Department; and\nthe council must comply with any instructions of that Department in relation to the exercise of that function and must provide assistance as required by that Department.\nSection 104\tAny Department may direct a council to make a report or return or supply specific information with respect to the exercise of the council’s functions.\nSection 105\tAny Department may cause such local and other inquiries to be held along with such investigations it sees fit in connection with the administration of any statutory provision relating to the functions of a council/committee/sub-committee.\nSection 106\tAny Department may, after an inquiry or investigation has been completed and the Department is satisfied that the council has failed to discharge any if its functions, make an order that the council is in default and direct a council to take action, within a specified period.\nIf the direction is not complied with the Department may under an order empower an officer of the Department to exercise or procure the exercise of, the function in question.\nThe Department must pay the expenses of an officer, but these must be re-paid by the council.\nSection 107\tIf any Northern Ireland department considers that any action proposed to be taken by a council would be incompatible with any international obligations, that department may direct that the proposed action must not be taken.\nIf any Northern Ireland department considers that any action capable of being taken by a council is required for the purpose of giving effect to any international obligations, that department may direct that the action shall be taken.\nA direction under this section must give the reasons for making the direction and may make provision having retrospective effect.\nThe Local Government (NI) Order 2005\nArticle 22\tThe Department may at any time direct the local government auditor to hold an extraordinary audit of the accounts of a local government body and that an extraordinary audit may be held after 3 days’ notice in writing is given to the body whose accounts are to be audited.\nArticle 26\tThe Local Government Auditor shall, if required by the Department, undertake comparative and other studies designed to enable them to make recommendations for improving economy, efficiency and effectiveness in the provision of services by councils.","answerHtml":"District councils are democratically elected independent bodies and as such, neither my Department nor I have an oversight role. However, my Department does have a number of powers of intervention, some of which are also available to other Departments.
These powers of intervention are summarised in the following table:
| The Local Government Act (NI) 2014 | |
| Section 98 | Section 98 of the 2014 Act permits the Department to direct the Local Government Auditor (after consultation with the Auditor) to conduct a special inspection of a council where it believes that a relevant council may fail to comply with the Performance Improvement provisions set out in Part 12 of the 2014 Act. |
| Section 100 | Where the Department is satisfied that the council is failing or likely to fail with the requirements of Performance Improvement, the Department may direct a council to- prepare or amend an improvement plan or to follow specified procedures in relation to such a plan; carry out a review of its exercise of specified functions; enter into specified arrangements with another council; set specified improvement objectives for itself under section 85. Any Department may direct a council to take any action it considers necessary to secure the council’s compliance with the requirements of Performance Improvement. Where this section applies, any Department may direct- that a specified function of a council must be exercised by that Department; and the council must comply with any instructions of that Department in relation to the exercise of that function and must provide assistance as required by that Department. |
| Section 104 | Any Department may direct a council to make a report or return or supply specific information with respect to the exercise of the council’s functions. |
| Section 105 | Any Department may cause such local and other inquiries to be held along with such investigations it sees fit in connection with the administration of any statutory provision relating to the functions of a council/committee/sub-committee. |
| Section 106 | Any Department may, after an inquiry or investigation has been completed and the Department is satisfied that the council has failed to discharge any if its functions, make an order that the council is in default and direct a council to take action, within a specified period. If the direction is not complied with the Department may under an order empower an officer of the Department to exercise or procure the exercise of, the function in question. The Department must pay the expenses of an officer, but these must be re-paid by the council. |
| Section 107 | If any Northern Ireland department considers that any action proposed to be taken by a council would be incompatible with any international obligations, that department may direct that the proposed action must not be taken. If any Northern Ireland department considers that any action capable of being taken by a council is required for the purpose of giving effect to any international obligations, that department may direct that the action shall be taken. A direction under this section must give the reasons for making the direction and may make provision having retrospective effect. |
| The Local Government (NI) Order 2005 | |
| Article 22 | The Department may at any time direct the local government auditor to hold an extraordinary audit of the accounts of a local government body and that an extraordinary audit may be held after 3 days’ notice in writing is given to the body whose accounts are to be audited. |
| Article 26 | The Local Government Auditor shall, if required by the Department, undertake comparative and other studies designed to enable them to make recommendations for improving economy, efficiency and effectiveness in the provision of services by councils. |
My Department holds minutes of meetings with the Local Government Auditor that took place on 24 January 2020 and 30 August 2023 respectively. Copies of these minutes are attached.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011535%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400660","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400660"}},{"id":"400659","reference":"AQW 11534/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-08","answerBy":"2024-05-23","answered":"2024-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the functions of the Northern Ireland Local Government Officers’ Superannuation Committee (NILGOSC); and (ii) whether he has any plans to review the operation of NILGOSC.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Local Government Officers' Superannuation Committee (NILGOSC) is a statutory body established by the Local Government (Superannuation) Act (Northern Ireland) 1950 to:\n\nadminister a pension scheme for local authorities and admitted bodies; and\n\nto manage and maintain a fund out of which the benefits of the scheme are met.\n\nAn independent reviewer has been tasked with conducting a review of NILGOSC as part of the New Decade, New Approach commitment to review Arms’ Length Bodies in Northern Ireland. This review is due to be completed in July 2024.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Local Government Officers' Superannuation Committee (NILGOSC) is a statutory body established by the Local Government (Superannuation) Act (Northern Ireland) 1950 to:
administer a pension scheme for local authorities and admitted bodies; and
to manage and maintain a fund out of which the benefits of the scheme are met.
An independent reviewer has been tasked with conducting a review of NILGOSC as part of the New Decade, New Approach commitment to review Arms’ Length Bodies in Northern Ireland. This review is due to be completed in July 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011534%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400659","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400659"}},{"id":"400658","reference":"AQW 11533/22-27","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 for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide a copy of the minutes from the Partnership Panel for Northern Ireland for each year in the last five years.","answerText":"The Minutes for the Partnership Panel for Northern Ireland are published online on the Department for Communities website at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/minutes-partnership-panel-northern-ireland.","answerHtml":"The Minutes for the Partnership Panel for Northern Ireland are published online on the Department for Communities website at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/minutes-partnership-panel-northern-ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011533%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400658","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400658"}},{"id":"399806","reference":"AQW 11193/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-01","answerBy":"2024-05-17","answered":"2024-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission when the minutes of the most recent Assembly Commission meeting will be published.","answerText":"Minutes of Assembly Commission meetings are tabled and agreed at the following meeting. Once agreed they are then published on the Assembly website. The Assembly Commission is next scheduled to meet on 16 May 2024.","answerHtml":"Minutes of Assembly Commission meetings are tabled and agreed at the following meeting. Once agreed they are then published on the Assembly website. The Assembly Commission is next scheduled to meet on 16 May 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011193%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399806","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399806"}},{"id":"399805","reference":"AQW 11192/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-01","answerBy":"2024-05-17","answered":"2024-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission for an update on discussions in relation to when any independent review panels will be recruited.","answerText":"The Independent Financial Review Panel (IFRP) was not reconstituted when the term of the outgoing panel members expired on 1 July 2016. In the last Assembly mandate, the Assembly Commission introduced the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill on 14 December 2020 which, amongst other things, sought to rename the IFRP as the Renumeration Board and remove its power and responsibility for determining the allowances payable to Members. This followed the conferral of power on the Assembly Commission to make determinations on Members' allowances, by the Assembly on 30 June 2020.\n\nWhile the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill was introduced it was not progressed to second stage, as the Assembly Commission was mindful of prioritising legalisation associated with or arising from COVID-19.\n\nFollowing the resumption of normal Assembly business and the reconstitution of the Assembly Commission in February 2024, the Assembly Commission reconsidered the draft Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill at its first meeting on 19 March 2024. At that meeting, the Assembly Commission asked officials to prepare a further paper and a revised Bill for consideration at its next meeting, which is scheduled for 16 May 2024.","answerHtml":"The Independent Financial Review Panel (IFRP) was not reconstituted when the term of the outgoing panel members expired on 1 July 2016. In the last Assembly mandate, the Assembly Commission introduced the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill on 14 December 2020 which, amongst other things, sought to rename the IFRP as the Renumeration Board and remove its power and responsibility for determining the allowances payable to Members. This followed the conferral of power on the Assembly Commission to make determinations on Members' allowances, by the Assembly on 30 June 2020.
While the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill was introduced it was not progressed to second stage, as the Assembly Commission was mindful of prioritising legalisation associated with or arising from COVID-19.
Following the resumption of normal Assembly business and the reconstitution of the Assembly Commission in February 2024, the Assembly Commission reconsidered the draft Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill at its first meeting on 19 March 2024. At that meeting, the Assembly Commission asked officials to prepare a further paper and a revised Bill for consideration at its next meeting, which is scheduled for 16 May 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011192%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399805","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399805"}},{"id":"399804","reference":"AQW 11191/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-01","answerBy":"2024-05-17","answered":"2024-05-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission (i) to detail the status of MLAs in relation to health and safety and accessibility policies that cover all users of Parliament Buildings; and (ii) whether there are any plans to review this status.","answerText":"(i)The Assembly Commission’s Health and Safety at Work Policy applies to all users of Parliament Buildings including Members. The Health and Safety at Work Policy is available for Members via the Members Portal. The policy is reviewed annually or more frequently if necessary. The Assembly Commission also has an Inclusive Customer Service Policy which covers all building users and promotes accessibility services within the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Inclusive Customer Service Policy is available on the Northern Ireland Assembly website.\n\n(ii)There are no plans to review the current arrangements under these policies.","answerHtml":"(i)The Assembly Commission’s Health and Safety at Work Policy applies to all users of Parliament Buildings including Members. The Health and Safety at Work Policy is available for Members via the Members Portal. The policy is reviewed annually or more frequently if necessary. The Assembly Commission also has an Inclusive Customer Service Policy which covers all building users and promotes accessibility services within the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Inclusive Customer Service Policy is available on the Northern Ireland Assembly website.
(ii)There are no plans to review the current arrangements under these policies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011191%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399804","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399804"}},{"id":"399803","reference":"AQW 11190/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-01","answerBy":"2024-05-17","answered":"2024-05-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to detail (i) when MLAs and their staff will receive a pension statement; and (ii) whether a pension statement will be issued to MLAs annually.","answerText":"The issue of pension statements for Members is a matter for the Assembly Members Pension Scheme Trustees. However, the Assembly Commission is aware that this matter was discussed by the Trustees at their meeting on 1 May 2024. Work to produce statements up to and including 31 March 2024 is underway, and they should be ready for distribution in 10-12 weeks.\n\nThe pension statements for MLA staff is a matter for each of the appropriate pension schemes and not a matter for the Assembly Commission. Staff should contact their pension providers if they have queries regarding their schemes or associated benefits.\n\nOnce these current statements are issued, annual statements will once again be issued to MLAs going forward.","answerHtml":"The issue of pension statements for Members is a matter for the Assembly Members Pension Scheme Trustees. However, the Assembly Commission is aware that this matter was discussed by the Trustees at their meeting on 1 May 2024. Work to produce statements up to and including 31 March 2024 is underway, and they should be ready for distribution in 10-12 weeks.
The pension statements for MLA staff is a matter for each of the appropriate pension schemes and not a matter for the Assembly Commission. Staff should contact their pension providers if they have queries regarding their schemes or associated benefits.
Once these current statements are issued, annual statements will once again be issued to MLAs going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011190%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399803"}},{"id":"399802","reference":"AQW 11189/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-01","answerBy":"2024-05-17","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 to detail the work that has been carried out through the North South Ministerial Council to ensure that international adoption that is recognised in Northern Ireland is also recognised in the Republic of Ireland.","answerText":"The matter of international adoption has not been discussed by the North South Ministerial Council. We do not hold any further information.","answerHtml":"The matter of international adoption has not been discussed by the North South Ministerial Council. We do not hold any further information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011189%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399802","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399802"}},{"id":"398822","reference":"AQW 10782/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-24","answerBy":"2024-05-10","answered":"2024-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what meetings he has had with Translink in relation to rural bus routes.","answerText":"I have recently hosted the annual Ministerial and bi-annual accountability meeting with the Northern Ireland Transport Holding Company Board. This includes updates on many aspects of performance and details of upcoming plans across the public transport network.","answerHtml":"I have recently hosted the annual Ministerial and bi-annual accountability meeting with the Northern Ireland Transport Holding Company Board. This includes updates on many aspects of performance and details of upcoming plans across the public transport network.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010782%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398822","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398822"}},{"id":"398821","reference":"AQW 10781/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-24","answerBy":"2024-05-10","answered":"2024-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he will work with rural communities to review the current need for rural transport.","answerText":"My Department is currently working with councils and stakeholders in local communities to produce a new suite of local Transport Plans which will set out the framework for transport policy and investment decisions up until 2035. These transport plans are centred on local transport solutions and will seek to ensure that people are able to access employment, healthcare and other services.\n\nMy Department is also undertaking a phased review of the community transport schemes which it funds, including the Dial-A-Lift Scheme provided by the Rural Community Transport Partnerships. In order to inform the review’s first phase, my officials worked with rural service providers, transport users and some key stakeholders to obtain their views on a number of issues, including current and future demand for their services. I anticipate there will be further engagement with rural communities and rural transport providers in the next phase of the review.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently working with councils and stakeholders in local communities to produce a new suite of local Transport Plans which will set out the framework for transport policy and investment decisions up until 2035. These transport plans are centred on local transport solutions and will seek to ensure that people are able to access employment, healthcare and other services.
My Department is also undertaking a phased review of the community transport schemes which it funds, including the Dial-A-Lift Scheme provided by the Rural Community Transport Partnerships. In order to inform the review’s first phase, my officials worked with rural service providers, transport users and some key stakeholders to obtain their views on a number of issues, including current and future demand for their services. I anticipate there will be further engagement with rural communities and rural transport providers in the next phase of the review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010781%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398821","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398821"}},{"id":"398820","reference":"AQW 10780/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-24","answerBy":"2024-05-10","answered":"2024-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the resources his Department is putting in place to support rural transport.","answerText":"My Department awarded grant funding of £2.236M in 2023/24 to support the delivery of rural Dial-a-Lift Scheme services which are delivered across the North by rural community transport providers. Funding of £55K was also awarded to the Community Transport Association to provide advice and services across both the rural and urban community transport sector.\n\nDue to the delay with the 2024/25 Budget, I have approved funding for community transport providers for the first quarter of 2024/25 to support the continuance of community transport in rural areas.\n\nTranslink do not account for the operation of public transport on the basis of rural and non-rural services. Ulsterbus provides the majority of the rural network, as well as inter-urban services and rural and smaller town services. On that basis I can confirm that Ulsterbus received £46.779M of bus route subsidy during 2023/24. Allocations for 2024/25 are in the process of being finalised.","answerHtml":"My Department awarded grant funding of £2.236M in 2023/24 to support the delivery of rural Dial-a-Lift Scheme services which are delivered across the North by rural community transport providers. Funding of £55K was also awarded to the Community Transport Association to provide advice and services across both the rural and urban community transport sector.
Due to the delay with the 2024/25 Budget, I have approved funding for community transport providers for the first quarter of 2024/25 to support the continuance of community transport in rural areas.
Translink do not account for the operation of public transport on the basis of rural and non-rural services. Ulsterbus provides the majority of the rural network, as well as inter-urban services and rural and smaller town services. On that basis I can confirm that Ulsterbus received £46.779M of bus route subsidy during 2023/24. Allocations for 2024/25 are in the process of being finalised.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010780%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398820","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398820"}},{"id":"398166","reference":"AQW 10501/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-19","answerBy":"2024-05-07","answered":"2024-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether checks of electrical installations are carried out in dwellings in the social rented sector; (ii) what legislation or regulation requires the checking of electrical installations; (iii) whether these are provided by both the Housing Executive and registered housing associations; (iv) how often these checks are conducted; and (v) whether an Electrical Installation Condition Report is completed as part of these checks.","answerText":"In respect of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, it has responsibility for electrical wiring in relation to its tenanted dwellings under Schedule 4 of the General Conditions of Tenancy 1989 Edition, which sets out the rights and duties which must be observed by the NIHE and the tenant in all secure tenancies. Since 1992 the NIHE has carried out fixed electrical inspection testing to all its domestic properties on a 10-year cycle and at every change of tenancy. Whilst there is no specific, direct legislative requirement to undertake electrical safety inspections on domestic properties, the NIHE in 2017, reviewed its processes for delivering fixed electrical testing and, in line with established “best practice” as recommended in IET Regulations Guidance Note 3, decided to migrate from the 10-Year cycle of inspection to a new reduced 5-Year cycle which it is currently working towards. On completion of each electrical inspection an Electrical Installation Condition Report is completed and is uploaded onto the NIHEs electronic database for the relevant NIHE dwelling.\n\nIn respect of registered housing associations, checks of electrical installations are undertaken as per the guidance set out in the IET Wiring Regulations in that all fixed electrical installations within properties should be inspected and tested on a 5-year cycle in line with best practice.\n\nCurrently there is no specific/dedicated legislation in Northern Ireland compelling anyone or any organisation to undertake electrical checks on the social rented sector. However, most Associations should have a policy in electrical safety to protect tenants.\n\nBest practice recommends a frequency of every 5 years for domestic rented properties (as indicated above) or otherwise directed in the EICR. The EICR is part of the inspection process. In the Housing Association Guide, the frequency of electrical inspections is stated as 5 years.","answerHtml":"In respect of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, it has responsibility for electrical wiring in relation to its tenanted dwellings under Schedule 4 of the General Conditions of Tenancy 1989 Edition, which sets out the rights and duties which must be observed by the NIHE and the tenant in all secure tenancies. Since 1992 the NIHE has carried out fixed electrical inspection testing to all its domestic properties on a 10-year cycle and at every change of tenancy. Whilst there is no specific, direct legislative requirement to undertake electrical safety inspections on domestic properties, the NIHE in 2017, reviewed its processes for delivering fixed electrical testing and, in line with established “best practice” as recommended in IET Regulations Guidance Note 3, decided to migrate from the 10-Year cycle of inspection to a new reduced 5-Year cycle which it is currently working towards. On completion of each electrical inspection an Electrical Installation Condition Report is completed and is uploaded onto the NIHEs electronic database for the relevant NIHE dwelling.
In respect of registered housing associations, checks of electrical installations are undertaken as per the guidance set out in the IET Wiring Regulations in that all fixed electrical installations within properties should be inspected and tested on a 5-year cycle in line with best practice.
Currently there is no specific/dedicated legislation in Northern Ireland compelling anyone or any organisation to undertake electrical checks on the social rented sector. However, most Associations should have a policy in electrical safety to protect tenants.
Best practice recommends a frequency of every 5 years for domestic rented properties (as indicated above) or otherwise directed in the EICR. The EICR is part of the inspection process. In the Housing Association Guide, the frequency of electrical inspections is stated as 5 years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010501%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398166","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398166"}},{"id":"397976","reference":"AQW 10410/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-18","answerBy":"2024-05-03","answered":"2024-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will consider launching a similar scheme to the Universal Support scheme that has recently launched in Great Britain.","answerText":"My Department has a range of employability provisions to support people to move closer, into, sustain and progress in work. This operates in conjunction with other supports delivered by Central and Local Government, and the Voluntary and Community Sector.\n\nMy officials are working with colleagues in the Department for Work and Pensions to gain a greater understanding of Universal Support and the help it will provide to overcome barriers to entering or staying in employment. I will consider the outcome of these discussions and the resources required to implement Universal Support when my Department’s budget position has been confirmed.","answerHtml":"My Department has a range of employability provisions to support people to move closer, into, sustain and progress in work. This operates in conjunction with other supports delivered by Central and Local Government, and the Voluntary and Community Sector.
My officials are working with colleagues in the Department for Work and Pensions to gain a greater understanding of Universal Support and the help it will provide to overcome barriers to entering or staying in employment. I will consider the outcome of these discussions and the resources required to implement Universal Support when my Department’s budget position has been confirmed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010410%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397976","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397976"}},{"id":"397975","reference":"AQW 10409/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-18","answerBy":"2024-05-03","answered":"2024-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the interventions the Minister is putting in place to support people with disabilities, in particular those furthest from the labour market.","answerText":"My Department offers an extensive range of supports to those with disabilities, including across areas such as welfare, employment, housing, culture, arts and leisure, and through funding partnerships with Local Councils and the voluntary and community sector.\n\nI am committed to delivering for disabled people throughout Northern Ireland and, as one of my key priorities, I am currently considering the next steps to be taken in relation to the development of an Executive Disability Strategy. Final decisions on the content and implementation of the Disability Strategy will be subject to Executive agreement.\n\nIn terms of employment, my Department has undertaken extensive work to co-develop a draft Disability and Work Strategy for Northern Ireland. This will include interventions to support people with disabilities and health conditions to move closer, into, sustain and progress in employment.\n\nThere are also a number of existing provisions delivering interventions to support people with disabilities and health conditions, particularly those furthest from the labour market, including JobStart Phase 2, Labour Market Partnerships, Condition Management Programme, Workable, Access to Work, Work Experience and Adviser Discretion Fund.","answerHtml":"My Department offers an extensive range of supports to those with disabilities, including across areas such as welfare, employment, housing, culture, arts and leisure, and through funding partnerships with Local Councils and the voluntary and community sector.
I am committed to delivering for disabled people throughout Northern Ireland and, as one of my key priorities, I am currently considering the next steps to be taken in relation to the development of an Executive Disability Strategy. Final decisions on the content and implementation of the Disability Strategy will be subject to Executive agreement.
In terms of employment, my Department has undertaken extensive work to co-develop a draft Disability and Work Strategy for Northern Ireland. This will include interventions to support people with disabilities and health conditions to move closer, into, sustain and progress in employment.
There are also a number of existing provisions delivering interventions to support people with disabilities and health conditions, particularly those furthest from the labour market, including JobStart Phase 2, Labour Market Partnerships, Condition Management Programme, Workable, Access to Work, Work Experience and Adviser Discretion Fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010409%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397975","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397975"}},{"id":"397974","reference":"AQW 10408/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-18","answerBy":"2024-05-03","answered":"2024-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department has considered alternative schemes to JobStart.","answerText":"The JobStart scheme is only one of my Department’s employment programmes. It is specifically aimed at young people aged 16 to 24 who are at risk of falling into long-term unemployment, providing job opportunities offering 25 hours of paid employment per week at the appropriate National Minimum Wage.\n\nThere are a number of alternative employment programmes and schemes available to help and support young people, long term unemployed and people with a disability and/or health condition into work and to stay in work including, Local Labour Market partnerships, Condition Management Programme, Workable, Access to Work, Work Experience and Adviser Discretion Fund.","answerHtml":"The JobStart scheme is only one of my Department’s employment programmes. It is specifically aimed at young people aged 16 to 24 who are at risk of falling into long-term unemployment, providing job opportunities offering 25 hours of paid employment per week at the appropriate National Minimum Wage.
There are a number of alternative employment programmes and schemes available to help and support young people, long term unemployed and people with a disability and/or health condition into work and to stay in work including, Local Labour Market partnerships, Condition Management Programme, Workable, Access to Work, Work Experience and Adviser Discretion Fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010408%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397974","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397974"}},{"id":"397973","reference":"AQW 10407/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-18","answerBy":"2024-05-03","answered":"2024-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department has conducted an (i) external evaluation; and (ii) a value for money exercise on the JobStart Scheme.","answerText":"Both phases of the JobStart Scheme were subject to a rigorous evaluation and value for money exercise, including the development and subsequent approval of separate economic appraisals by the Department of Finance.\n\nA Post Evaluation Review of JobStart Phase 1 was conducted in July 2023, it concluded that the scheme fully achieved its objectives and performance against planned costs.\n\nThe JobStart Phase 2 evaluation review is planned for completion at scheme close (end of March 2025).","answerHtml":"Both phases of the JobStart Scheme were subject to a rigorous evaluation and value for money exercise, including the development and subsequent approval of separate economic appraisals by the Department of Finance.
A Post Evaluation Review of JobStart Phase 1 was conducted in July 2023, it concluded that the scheme fully achieved its objectives and performance against planned costs.
The JobStart Phase 2 evaluation review is planned for completion at scheme close (end of March 2025).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010407%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397973","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397973"}},{"id":"397022","reference":"AQW 9916/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-11","answerBy":"2024-04-26","answered":"2024-04-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what preparatory work has been completed on the Ballynahinch bypass, to ensure the project is shovel-ready when capital investment is available.","answerText":"Major Road schemes are an important part of the work that is delivered by my Department as we seek to reduce journey times, increase reliability and improve road safety.\n\nThe A24 Ballynahinch Bypass scheme has progressed through the statutory processes with the Direction Order being made in July 2021, however, the Vesting Order for the scheme cannot be made until funding is secured. The scheme has been developed to a stage that if a decision was made to progress the project it would take in the region of 24 months to commence construction; 12 months to refresh environmental information, prepare contract documents and complete the economic appraisal (Business Case) and 12 months for the procurement process.\n\nDetails of the status of the A24 Ballynahinch Bypass project will continue to be available on the project webpage which can be viewed at: A24 Ballynahinch Bypass - overview | Department for Infrastructure (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"Major Road schemes are an important part of the work that is delivered by my Department as we seek to reduce journey times, increase reliability and improve road safety.
The A24 Ballynahinch Bypass scheme has progressed through the statutory processes with the Direction Order being made in July 2021, however, the Vesting Order for the scheme cannot be made until funding is secured. The scheme has been developed to a stage that if a decision was made to progress the project it would take in the region of 24 months to commence construction; 12 months to refresh environmental information, prepare contract documents and complete the economic appraisal (Business Case) and 12 months for the procurement process.
Details of the status of the A24 Ballynahinch Bypass project will continue to be available on the project webpage which can be viewed at: A24 Ballynahinch Bypass - overview | Department for Infrastructure (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209916%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397022","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397022"}},{"id":"397021","reference":"AQW 9915/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-11","answerBy":"2024-04-26","answered":"2024-04-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether the Ballynahinch bypass is on the priority list of capital projects to be taken forward by his Department.","answerText":"Major Road schemes are an important part of the work that is delivered by my Department as we seek to reduce journey times, increase reliability and improve road safety.\n\nThe publication of the prioritised list of major road schemes, that will continue to be progressed, explains that development work on the Ballynahinch Bypass is currently paused. A decision to proceed to procurement will be considered following confirmation of the Department’s Transport Plans and the availability of funding.\n\nDetails of the current status of the A24 Ballynahinch Bypass project will continue to be available on the project webpage which can be viewed at: A24 Ballynahinch Bypass - overview | Department for Infrastructure (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"Major Road schemes are an important part of the work that is delivered by my Department as we seek to reduce journey times, increase reliability and improve road safety.
The publication of the prioritised list of major road schemes, that will continue to be progressed, explains that development work on the Ballynahinch Bypass is currently paused. A decision to proceed to procurement will be considered following confirmation of the Department’s Transport Plans and the availability of funding.
Details of the current status of the A24 Ballynahinch Bypass project will continue to be available on the project webpage which can be viewed at: A24 Ballynahinch Bypass - overview | Department for Infrastructure (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209915%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397021","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397021"}},{"id":"397020","reference":"AQW 9914/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-11","answerBy":"2024-04-26","answered":"2024-04-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, following the tragedy that occurred in Ballynahinch in April 2024, whether the Ballynahinch bypass is being considered for capital investment in 2024-25.","answerText":"I wish to send my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mr Giovanni Buggea who lost his life in a road traffic collision in the Square, Ballynahinch on Monday 8 April 2024. The PSNI are investigating this tragic incident and anyone who can assist the police with their enquiries should do so.\n\nMajor Road schemes are an important part of the work that is delivered by my Department as we seek to reduce journey times, increase reliability and improve road safety. The A24 Ballynahinch Bypass will deliver a 3.1km bypass to the east which will improve traffic conditions in the town centre.\n\nThe publication of the prioritised list of major road schemes, that will continue to be progressed, explains that development work on the Ballynahinch Bypass is currently paused. A decision to proceed to procurement will be considered following confirmation of the Department’s Transport Plans and the availability of funding.\n\nDetails of the current status of the A24 Ballynahinch Bypass project will continue to be available on the project webpage which can be viewed at: A24 Ballynahinch Bypass - overview | Department for Infrastructure (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"I wish to send my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mr Giovanni Buggea who lost his life in a road traffic collision in the Square, Ballynahinch on Monday 8 April 2024. The PSNI are investigating this tragic incident and anyone who can assist the police with their enquiries should do so.
Major Road schemes are an important part of the work that is delivered by my Department as we seek to reduce journey times, increase reliability and improve road safety. The A24 Ballynahinch Bypass will deliver a 3.1km bypass to the east which will improve traffic conditions in the town centre.
The publication of the prioritised list of major road schemes, that will continue to be progressed, explains that development work on the Ballynahinch Bypass is currently paused. A decision to proceed to procurement will be considered following confirmation of the Department’s Transport Plans and the availability of funding.
Details of the current status of the A24 Ballynahinch Bypass project will continue to be available on the project webpage which can be viewed at: A24 Ballynahinch Bypass - overview | Department for Infrastructure (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209914%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397020","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397020"}},{"id":"396813","reference":"AQW 9812/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-10","answerBy":"2024-04-25","answered":"2024-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the number; and (ii) the percentage of the total of individuals living in (a) owner-occupier; (b) private rental; (c) hostel accommodation; (d) Housing Executive accommodation; (e) Housing Association accommodation; (f) informal arrangements with friends or family; (g) on the streets or night shelter; (h) supported living; and (i) any other form of accommodation, prior to committal to prison, in each of the last five calendar years.","answerText":"At committal, an assessment of needs is completed for each prisoner against a number of resettlement pathways, including accommodation. This information enables Prison Service staff in Prisoner Development Units to put interventions in place, such as a referral to the Housing Rights advocacy service to examine accommodation options for a prisoner on release.\n\nDetails relating to accommodation are gathered from Prisoner Needs Profile (PNP) questionnaires completed by prisoners. These details are self-reported and not verified by Prison Service staff. It is important to note that not all prisoners will provide a response. Some may refuse to engage with the PNP process; others may refuse to answer the accommodation questions and others are released prior to providing a response.\n\nTable 1 below highlights the requested accommodation type breakdown based on prisoners who completed a PNP. The 2021 data is from 10 February onwards when the current PNP was implemented. Table 2 highlights responses from the previous version of the PNP. However, due to differences in the response categories and in methodology, the data from the previous version of the PNP should not be directly compared to the current PNP.\n\nTable 1: Accommodation Type prior to custody (Current Revised PNP)\n\nAccommodation Type\t20211\t2022\t2023\nHostel\t10%\t8%\t7%\nJJC Custody\t0%\t0%\t<1%\nNIHE/Housing Association\t38%\t39%\t32%\nOn the streets/night shelter\t2%\t3%\t5%\nOwner Occupied\t12%\t12%\t12%\nPrivate Rented\t24%\t21%\t22%\nResidential Care\t0%\t<1%\t<1%\nSupported Living\t1%\t2%\t2%\nTemporary with friend/family\t12%\t15%\t19%\nTravellers Site\t0%\t<1%\t<1%\nTotal\t100%\t100%\t100%\n\nTable 2: Accommodation Type prior to custody (Previous version of PNP)\n\nAccommodation Type\t2019\t2020\nHomeless\t7%\t6%\nHostel\t12%\t10%\nJJC Care\t<1%\t0%\nNIHE/Housing Association\t39%\t43%\nOwner Occupied\t15%\t17%\nPrivate Rented\t24%\t21%\nResidential Care\t<1%\t<1%\nRoofless\t2%\t1%\nSupported Living\t1%\t2%\nTotal\t100%\t100%\n\nSource: PNP (Current Revised and Previous version)\n\nNotes:\n\nThe current version of the PNP has been in use since 10th February 2021. 2021 data in Table 1 does not include any PNPs prior to 10th February.\n\nTotals may not sum to 100% due to rounding.\n\n“Refuse to answer” and blank responses are excluded from the totals.\n\nResponses are for individuals per year. If an individual was committed more than once in a calendar year, they would have one response included if they selected the same accommodation type each time. However, if they selected a different accommodation type in a separate PNP then this would also be included separately.","answerHtml":"At committal, an assessment of needs is completed for each prisoner against a number of resettlement pathways, including accommodation. This information enables Prison Service staff in Prisoner Development Units to put interventions in place, such as a referral to the Housing Rights advocacy service to examine accommodation options for a prisoner on release.
Details relating to accommodation are gathered from Prisoner Needs Profile (PNP) questionnaires completed by prisoners. These details are self-reported and not verified by Prison Service staff. It is important to note that not all prisoners will provide a response. Some may refuse to engage with the PNP process; others may refuse to answer the accommodation questions and others are released prior to providing a response.
Table 1 below highlights the requested accommodation type breakdown based on prisoners who completed a PNP. The 2021 data is from 10 February onwards when the current PNP was implemented. Table 2 highlights responses from the previous version of the PNP. However, due to differences in the response categories and in methodology, the data from the previous version of the PNP should not be directly compared to the current PNP.
Table 1: Accommodation Type prior to custody (Current Revised PNP)
| Accommodation Type | 20211 | 2022 | 2023 |
| Hostel | 10% | 8% | 7% |
| JJC Custody | 0% | 0% | <1% |
| NIHE/Housing Association | 38% | 39% | 32% |
| On the streets/night shelter | 2% | 3% | 5% |
| Owner Occupied | 12% | 12% | 12% |
| Private Rented | 24% | 21% | 22% |
| Residential Care | 0% | <1% | <1% |
| Supported Living | 1% | 2% | 2% |
| Temporary with friend/family | 12% | 15% | 19% |
| Travellers Site | 0% | <1% | <1% |
| Total | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Table 2: Accommodation Type prior to custody (Previous version of PNP)
| Accommodation Type | 2019 | 2020 |
| Homeless | 7% | 6% |
| Hostel | 12% | 10% |
| JJC Care | <1% | 0% |
| NIHE/Housing Association | 39% | 43% |
| Owner Occupied | 15% | 17% |
| Private Rented | 24% | 21% |
| Residential Care | <1% | <1% |
| Roofless | 2% | 1% |
| Supported Living | 1% | 2% |
| Total | 100% | 100% |
Source: PNP (Current Revised and Previous version)
Notes:
The current version of the PNP has been in use since 10th February 2021. 2021 data in Table 1 does not include any PNPs prior to 10th February.
Totals may not sum to 100% due to rounding.
“Refuse to answer” and blank responses are excluded from the totals.
Responses are for individuals per year. If an individual was committed more than once in a calendar year, they would have one response included if they selected the same accommodation type each time. However, if they selected a different accommodation type in a separate PNP then this would also be included separately.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209812%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396813","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396813"}},{"id":"396812","reference":"AQW 9811/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-10","answerBy":"2024-04-25","answered":"2024-04-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how many times the Portaferry II ferry has provided crossings in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The MV Portaferry II has sailed a total of 49,854 times in the last 3 years. In 2021/22 it sailed 15,714 times, in 2022/23 it sailed 23,865 times, and in 2023/24 it sailed 10,275 times.","answerHtml":"The MV Portaferry II has sailed a total of 49,854 times in the last 3 years. In 2021/22 it sailed 15,714 times, in 2022/23 it sailed 23,865 times, and in 2023/24 it sailed 10,275 times.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209811%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396812","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396812"}},{"id":"396811","reference":"AQW 9810/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-10","answerBy":"2024-04-25","answered":"2024-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) how much funding will be provided to the Housing Executive to support Shared Housing in 2024-25; and (ii) how many new start homes this will equate to.","answerText":"It will be for the Executive to decide on the level of funding allocated to each NI Department. However, I will seek to maximise the funding allocated to my Department through my engagement in the 2024-25 Budget Process.\n\nMy Department has an annual delivery target of 200 shared social units per year.","answerHtml":"It will be for the Executive to decide on the level of funding allocated to each NI Department. However, I will seek to maximise the funding allocated to my Department through my engagement in the 2024-25 Budget Process.
My Department has an annual delivery target of 200 shared social units per year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209810%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396811","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396811"}},{"id":"396660","reference":"AQW 9730/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-09","answerBy":"2024-04-24","answered":"2024-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 9492/22-27, to detail, during the five week wait for Universal Credit, (i) how many weeks those claimants in receipt of Housing Benefit will not receive this benefit to cover their rent; and (ii) the average rental debt for people living in (a) a Housing Executive property; (b) a housing association property; and (c) private landlord property.","answerText":"how many weeks those claimants in receipt of Housing Benefit will not receive this benefit to cover their rent;\n\nWhen a person makes a claim for Universal Credit, this will result in their Housing Benefit award ending, effective from the previous day. All such claimants will, however, receive an additional two weeks ‘run on’ of the rent element of Housing Benefit as part of the stopping Housing Benefit process (this payment excludes rates). Universal Credit will be paid from the date that Housing Benefit stops but is paid on a different arrears cycle. Although claimants will receive the relevant benefit to cover rent costs throughout the transition from Housing Benefit to Universal Credit the first Universal Credit payment will be made around five weeks after a claim is made (around three weeks after the two weeks ‘run on’ is paid). Customers who are entitled to Universal Credit may be able to claim extra financial support to help while waiting on their payment to help with essential costs. This includes:\n\nApplying for a Universal Credit Contingency Fund grant\n\nApplying for an Advance loan\n\nApplying for Discretionary Support.\n\nthe average rental debt for people living in (a) a Housing Executive property.\n\nWhen a Housing Executive tenant in receipt of Housing Benefit makes a claim for Universal Credit (UC) the rent account will only accrue a technical arrear due to the fact UC and Rate Rebate for UC pay in arrears. The Housing Executive does not take action to recover technical debt. If a tenant later moves off UC, any debt left outstanding after their final UC payment is reclassified as a recoverable arrear. The technical debt accrued in a case where a tenant moves to UC from Housing Benefit is usually relatively small, between the equivalent of approximately 1 to 3 weeks rental element (i.e. around £80 to £240).\n\nthe average rental debt for people living in (b) a Housing Association property.\n\nThe Department does not hold information on the average rental debt for people living in a housing association property.\n\nthe average rental debt for people living in (c) a private landlord property.\n\nThe Department does not hold information on the average rental debt for people living in a private landlord property.","answerHtml":"how many weeks those claimants in receipt of Housing Benefit will not receive this benefit to cover their rent;
When a person makes a claim for Universal Credit, this will result in their Housing Benefit award ending, effective from the previous day. All such claimants will, however, receive an additional two weeks ‘run on’ of the rent element of Housing Benefit as part of the stopping Housing Benefit process (this payment excludes rates). Universal Credit will be paid from the date that Housing Benefit stops but is paid on a different arrears cycle. Although claimants will receive the relevant benefit to cover rent costs throughout the transition from Housing Benefit to Universal Credit the first Universal Credit payment will be made around five weeks after a claim is made (around three weeks after the two weeks ‘run on’ is paid). Customers who are entitled to Universal Credit may be able to claim extra financial support to help while waiting on their payment to help with essential costs. This includes:
Applying for a Universal Credit Contingency Fund grant
Applying for an Advance loan
Applying for Discretionary Support.
the average rental debt for people living in (a) a Housing Executive property.
When a Housing Executive tenant in receipt of Housing Benefit makes a claim for Universal Credit (UC) the rent account will only accrue a technical arrear due to the fact UC and Rate Rebate for UC pay in arrears. The Housing Executive does not take action to recover technical debt. If a tenant later moves off UC, any debt left outstanding after their final UC payment is reclassified as a recoverable arrear. The technical debt accrued in a case where a tenant moves to UC from Housing Benefit is usually relatively small, between the equivalent of approximately 1 to 3 weeks rental element (i.e. around £80 to £240).
the average rental debt for people living in (b) a Housing Association property.
The Department does not hold information on the average rental debt for people living in a housing association property.
the average rental debt for people living in (c) a private landlord property.
The Department does not hold information on the average rental debt for people living in a private landlord property.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209730%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396660","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396660"}},{"id":"396659","reference":"AQW 9729/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-09","answerBy":"2024-04-24","answered":"2024-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 17087/17-22, (i) for an update to the figures provided for (a) 2022-23; and (b) 2023-24; and (ii) how many parents have chosen not to consent to paediatric pathology and post-mortem services in the same period.","answerText":"The number of hospitals consented post mortems are as follows:\n\nYear\tNumber of Post Mortems\n2022\t199\n2023\t202\n2024 (January-March)\t41\n\nThe number of coronial post mortems are as follows:\n\nYear\tNumber of Post Mortems\n2022\t26\n2023\t20\n2024 (January-March)\t7\n\nIn line with our pathway, all parents are currently afforded the opportunity to avail of a post mortem who experience a pregnancy loss from 12 weeks gestation. Whilst we can provide the number of post-mortems undertaken, it is only possible to provide the total number of parents who did not avail of this option from 20 weeks gestation as this data is collected to support the Mothers and Babies: Reducing Risk through Audits and Confidential Enquiries across the UK (MBRRACE-UK) perinatal mortality surveillance programme.\n\nMaternity information is collected on the Northern Ireland Maternity System (NIMATS) at booking, however pathways for pregnancy loss also include gynaecology services which use NIMATS. As such it is not possible to demonstrate if all parents experiencing loss less than 20 weeks were offered a post mortem.","answerHtml":"The number of hospitals consented post mortems are as follows:
| Year | Number of Post Mortems |
| 2022 | 199 |
| 2023 | 202 |
| 2024 (January-March) | 41 |
The number of coronial post mortems are as follows:
| Year | Number of Post Mortems |
| 2022 | 26 |
| 2023 | 20 |
| 2024 (January-March) | 7 |
In line with our pathway, all parents are currently afforded the opportunity to avail of a post mortem who experience a pregnancy loss from 12 weeks gestation. Whilst we can provide the number of post-mortems undertaken, it is only possible to provide the total number of parents who did not avail of this option from 20 weeks gestation as this data is collected to support the Mothers and Babies: Reducing Risk through Audits and Confidential Enquiries across the UK (MBRRACE-UK) perinatal mortality surveillance programme.
Maternity information is collected on the Northern Ireland Maternity System (NIMATS) at booking, however pathways for pregnancy loss also include gynaecology services which use NIMATS. As such it is not possible to demonstrate if all parents experiencing loss less than 20 weeks were offered a post mortem.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209729%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396659","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396659"}},{"id":"396658","reference":"AQW 9728/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-09","answerBy":"2024-04-24","answered":"2024-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how he will ensure Make the Call is not duplicating the work of the Independent Advice sector.","answerText":"My Department’s Make the Call Service aims to ensure that individuals and their families are receiving the benefits, supports and services they are entitled to claim.\n\nThis Service is unique in that it has direct access to benefit systems enabling efficient and effective potential entitlements to social security benefits to be identified. Make the Call also has a team of Community Outreach officers, who conduct home visits with people who are vulnerable through age, disability, illness, or adverse circumstances to provide face to face assistance and support and who can also assist with benefit claim completion.\n\nMake the Call and the Independent Advice sector both have important complementary roles in helping to ensure individuals and their families are receiving the benefits, supports and services they are entitled to claim.\n\nMy officials are currently developing a fresh policy framework for independent advice and debt services which will review the existing collaborative partnerships between the advice sector and government services including Make the Call to ensure citizens receive the necessary support and advice from the organisation best placed to provide it.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Make the Call Service aims to ensure that individuals and their families are receiving the benefits, supports and services they are entitled to claim.
This Service is unique in that it has direct access to benefit systems enabling efficient and effective potential entitlements to social security benefits to be identified. Make the Call also has a team of Community Outreach officers, who conduct home visits with people who are vulnerable through age, disability, illness, or adverse circumstances to provide face to face assistance and support and who can also assist with benefit claim completion.
Make the Call and the Independent Advice sector both have important complementary roles in helping to ensure individuals and their families are receiving the benefits, supports and services they are entitled to claim.
My officials are currently developing a fresh policy framework for independent advice and debt services which will review the existing collaborative partnerships between the advice sector and government services including Make the Call to ensure citizens receive the necessary support and advice from the organisation best placed to provide it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209728%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396658","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396658"}},{"id":"396657","reference":"AQW 9727/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-09","answerBy":"2024-04-24","answered":"2024-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) for an update on the delivery of the social value procurement policy; and (ii) whether she will update the procurement policy note 01/21 to increase the minimum total award criteria.","answerText":"The Executive Policy on scoring social value in public procurement has been significant in delivering meaningful economic, environmental and social outcomes here. To date these have included:\n\n3,500+ people who were long-term unemployed or disadvantaged in the labour market have gained employment.\n\n75+ social enterprises have been part of the supply chain in public sector contracts\n\n2,700+ hours of volunteering with the VCSE sector\n\n6,500+ hours of skills development activities\n\n2,800+ weeks of work experience delivered\n\nThe Strategic Investment Board has recently completed a review of the implementation of the Scoring Social Value Policy and has provided a report which recommends enhancements to help small and micro businesses to deliver social value, and to improve the effectiveness of the policy to better align to a new Programme for Government; Climate Change Commitments; and/or the Investment Strategy NI. The outcome of the review will be bought to the Executive over the coming months to help inform the decision to increase the minimum weighting for social value to 20%.","answerHtml":"The Executive Policy on scoring social value in public procurement has been significant in delivering meaningful economic, environmental and social outcomes here. To date these have included:
3,500+ people who were long-term unemployed or disadvantaged in the labour market have gained employment.
75+ social enterprises have been part of the supply chain in public sector contracts
2,700+ hours of volunteering with the VCSE sector
6,500+ hours of skills development activities
2,800+ weeks of work experience delivered
The Strategic Investment Board has recently completed a review of the implementation of the Scoring Social Value Policy and has provided a report which recommends enhancements to help small and micro businesses to deliver social value, and to improve the effectiveness of the policy to better align to a new Programme for Government; Climate Change Commitments; and/or the Investment Strategy NI. The outcome of the review will be bought to the Executive over the coming months to help inform the decision to increase the minimum weighting for social value to 20%.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209727%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396657"}},{"id":"396656","reference":"AQW 9726/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-09","answerBy":"2024-04-24","answered":"2024-04-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance when building regulations will be reviewed and updated to ensure climate change objectives will be met","answerText":"Building Regulations contribute to climate change objectives in setting minimum standards for building work that is being undertaken or in certain cases of a change of use.\n\nMy Department has been working on a phased review of the relevant parts of the Building Regulations as set out in the Energy Strategy published by the Department for the Economy in 2021.\n\nConsultation on a Phase 2 discussion document, published by my Department in June 2023, closed on 15 December and a departmental summary and response is planned for publication in Summer 2024. This will inform subsequent timings for changes to the Building Regulations here.\n\nI can assure you that this is a priority for my Department, however, the complexity, scope and detail involved in this work means it is likely that the Phase 3 uplift will be in 2025.","answerHtml":"Building Regulations contribute to climate change objectives in setting minimum standards for building work that is being undertaken or in certain cases of a change of use.
My Department has been working on a phased review of the relevant parts of the Building Regulations as set out in the Energy Strategy published by the Department for the Economy in 2021.
Consultation on a Phase 2 discussion document, published by my Department in June 2023, closed on 15 December and a departmental summary and response is planned for publication in Summer 2024. This will inform subsequent timings for changes to the Building Regulations here.
I can assure you that this is a priority for my Department, however, the complexity, scope and detail involved in this work means it is likely that the Phase 3 uplift will be in 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209726%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396656"}},{"id":"395391","reference":"AQW 9493/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-22","answerBy":"2024-04-10","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for a breakdown of the co-ownership band for limits across Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Property Value Limit (PVL) is the maximum market value of a property that can be purchased through Co Ownership. It is reviewed annually by my Department. The one PVL rate is used for all Northern Ireland, which is currently £195,000.","answerHtml":"The Property Value Limit (PVL) is the maximum market value of a property that can be purchased through Co Ownership. It is reviewed annually by my Department. The one PVL rate is used for all Northern Ireland, which is currently £195,000.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209493%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395391","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395391"}},{"id":"395390","reference":"AQW 9492/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-22","answerBy":"2024-04-10","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, when corresponding with claimants in relation to their move to Universal Credit, whether they will include information on potential debt they may incur during the five-week wait and a number to call for support.","answerText":"The Move to UC migration notice letter contains information about the support available to help people make the move to Universal Credit, including:\n\ninformation about the Universal Credit Contingency Fund non-repayable grant which can be applied for during the five week wait;\n\nthe Department’s Freephone number 0800 012 1331 if they need support or if they think their Universal Credit will be impacted by certain types of debt;\n\nAvailable face to face support in their local Jobs and Benefits office;\n\nand\n\nSignposting to Independent Welfare Advice.\n\nAdditional information is also available on the nidirect website at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/universal-credit-if-you-receive-migration-notice-letter.","answerHtml":"The Move to UC migration notice letter contains information about the support available to help people make the move to Universal Credit, including:
information about the Universal Credit Contingency Fund non-repayable grant which can be applied for during the five week wait;
the Department’s Freephone number 0800 012 1331 if they need support or if they think their Universal Credit will be impacted by certain types of debt;
Available face to face support in their local Jobs and Benefits office;
and
Signposting to Independent Welfare Advice.
Additional information is also available on the nidirect website at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/universal-credit-if-you-receive-migration-notice-letter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209492%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395390","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395390"}},{"id":"395389","reference":"AQW 9491/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-22","answerBy":"2024-04-10","answered":"2024-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what action his Department is taking to ensure that Housing Solutions is appropriately resourced.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has quantified the Housing Solutions requirement as part of the 2024/25 budget information gathering exercise. The NI Executive will agree and set the 2024-25 Budget and once the outcome is known I will consider how best to allocate the Department’s settlement against key priorities.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has quantified the Housing Solutions requirement as part of the 2024/25 budget information gathering exercise. The NI Executive will agree and set the 2024-25 Budget and once the outcome is known I will consider how best to allocate the Department’s settlement against key priorities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209491%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395389","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395389"}},{"id":"395388","reference":"AQW 9490/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-22","answerBy":"2024-04-10","answered":"2024-04-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how he is ensuring social value procurement policy is being delivered by his Department; and (ii) to detail the successful awards made since 1 June 2022.","answerText":"The Department for Communities (DfC) complies with NI procurement policy, and in relation to social value ensures compliance with PPN 01/21 – Scoring Social Values. This PPN requires that all supplies and services, and construction contracts above certain values must include social values initiatives with a 10% weighting applied to bidder responses at tender evaluation stage. This minimum weighting will apply to the thresholds set out in the Public Contracts Regulations. That is, service contracts valued above £138,760 and construction contracts valued above £5,336,937.\n\nConstruction Procurement Delivery (CPD) as the Centre of Procurement Expertise (CoPE) for DfC provides the Department with a range of services designed to ensure procurement processes, tender documentation, evaluations and contract awards comply with NI Public Procurement Policy and the UK Procurement Regulations.\n\nSince 1 June 2022 the total number of DfC awarded contracts is 122. The Department’s Commercial Business Unit awarded 55 of those and CPD the other 67. Social Value initiatives were included with those meeting the relevant thresholds.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities (DfC) complies with NI procurement policy, and in relation to social value ensures compliance with PPN 01/21 – Scoring Social Values. This PPN requires that all supplies and services, and construction contracts above certain values must include social values initiatives with a 10% weighting applied to bidder responses at tender evaluation stage. This minimum weighting will apply to the thresholds set out in the Public Contracts Regulations. That is, service contracts valued above £138,760 and construction contracts valued above £5,336,937.
Construction Procurement Delivery (CPD) as the Centre of Procurement Expertise (CoPE) for DfC provides the Department with a range of services designed to ensure procurement processes, tender documentation, evaluations and contract awards comply with NI Public Procurement Policy and the UK Procurement Regulations.
Since 1 June 2022 the total number of DfC awarded contracts is 122. The Department’s Commercial Business Unit awarded 55 of those and CPD the other 67. Social Value initiatives were included with those meeting the relevant thresholds.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209490%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395388","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395388"}},{"id":"395387","reference":"AQW 9489/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-22","answerBy":"2024-04-10","answered":"2024-04-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions his Department is taking to progress the 26 recommendations contained in the Recommendations to advance Community Wealth Building in Northern Ireland, published October 2022.","answerText":"I have not yet considered the Independent Advisory Panel Report, which I understand makes wide ranging and cross cutting recommendations. I am expecting an update on this in April.","answerHtml":"I have not yet considered the Independent Advisory Panel Report, which I understand makes wide ranging and cross cutting recommendations. I am expecting an update on this in April.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209489%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395387","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395387"}},{"id":"395153","reference":"AQW 9382/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-09","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether he will protect and improve the terms and conditions through the commitment to real living wage rates for voluntary and community sector posts; and (ii) whether he has had any discussions with other departments to ensure they do the same.","answerText":"My department’s grant funding provides a contribution towards eligible costs, which may include salaries and running costs incurred in the delivery of a range of agreed policy outcomes. Funding allocations for 2024/25 will be considered against competing priorities and within my overall Departmental budget position once the Executive sets a 2024/25 Budget.\n\nMy department is not the employer of staff in any voluntary and community sector organisation it funds. Terms and conditions and pay policies are a matter for the employer.\n\nI am pleased that my officials have been supporting the work of the Joint Forum, with representatives of other Executive departments and local government, to co-develop a set of Funding Principles aimed at improving the funding relationship with the Sector, recognising the fundamental difference that an enabling and consistent funding environment can make in terms of organisations being able to offer improved terms and conditions.","answerHtml":"My department’s grant funding provides a contribution towards eligible costs, which may include salaries and running costs incurred in the delivery of a range of agreed policy outcomes. Funding allocations for 2024/25 will be considered against competing priorities and within my overall Departmental budget position once the Executive sets a 2024/25 Budget.
My department is not the employer of staff in any voluntary and community sector organisation it funds. Terms and conditions and pay policies are a matter for the employer.
I am pleased that my officials have been supporting the work of the Joint Forum, with representatives of other Executive departments and local government, to co-develop a set of Funding Principles aimed at improving the funding relationship with the Sector, recognising the fundamental difference that an enabling and consistent funding environment can make in terms of organisations being able to offer improved terms and conditions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209382%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395153","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395153"}},{"id":"395152","reference":"AQW 9381/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-09","answered":"2024-03-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the review of Libraries NI will take place, in accordance with New Decade, New Approach.","answerText":"In line with the New Decade, New Approach commitment my Department has commissioned reviews for three of its Arm’s Length Bodies so far - the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People (NICCY), the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland (COPNI) and the Northern Ireland Local Government Officers Superannuation Committee (NILGOSC). Consideration will be given to further reviews in line with the New Decade, New Approach commitment, but no timeframes have been agreed as yet.","answerHtml":"In line with the New Decade, New Approach commitment my Department has commissioned reviews for three of its Arm’s Length Bodies so far - the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People (NICCY), the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland (COPNI) and the Northern Ireland Local Government Officers Superannuation Committee (NILGOSC). Consideration will be given to further reviews in line with the New Decade, New Approach commitment, but no timeframes have been agreed as yet.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209381%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395152","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395152"}},{"id":"395151","reference":"AQW 9380/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-09","answered":"2024-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the capital projects in the Strangford constituency that will be progressed using capital funding allocations.","answerText":"The Department has not yet received its capital budget allocation for 2024/2025 and beyond. As in prior years, once capital budget allocations are known, projects will have to be prioritised across the Department.","answerHtml":"The Department has not yet received its capital budget allocation for 2024/2025 and beyond. As in prior years, once capital budget allocations are known, projects will have to be prioritised across the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209380%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395151","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395151"}},{"id":"395150","reference":"AQW 9379/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-09","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what plans are in place to provide financial support to Housing Associations to ensure future retrofitting and climate change targets can be met.","answerText":"My officials, with support from the Strategic Investment Board, have been engaging with the Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations (NIFHA) in relation to options for future financial support for retrofit and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with climate change obligations on the pathway to Net Zero by 2050.\n\nPotential future funding will be subject to the required business case processes and approvals and budget availability. My officials will continue to support NIFHA through the development of the necessary economic appraisals.","answerHtml":"My officials, with support from the Strategic Investment Board, have been engaging with the Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations (NIFHA) in relation to options for future financial support for retrofit and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with climate change obligations on the pathway to Net Zero by 2050.
Potential future funding will be subject to the required business case processes and approvals and budget availability. My officials will continue to support NIFHA through the development of the necessary economic appraisals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209379%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395150","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395150"}},{"id":"395149","reference":"AQW 9378/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-09","answered":"2024-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions are being taken to assist historic monuments in meeting climate change targets.","answerText":"My Department’s Historic Environment Division (HED) is the policy lead with regard to historic monuments in NI.\n\nThere are 3 principal strands that guide HED’s approach to climate change: mitigation (achieving net zero); managing risks (understanding threats) and adaptation (preparing for climate change).\n\nHED collaborates with a number of partners regarding the impact of climate change on historic monuments and the Department is a member of the UK Heritage Adaptation Partnership (UKHAP).\n\nMy Department has part funded research projects working in partnership with the National Trust around evidence-based decision making, adaptation and an ongoing project identifying risks to monuments along our coastline.\n\nHED recently completed a carbon audit on its State Care Monuments and is taking forward recommendations to better understand its carbon footprint and help to establish annual carbon reduction targets.\n\nHED also utilises the evidence-based assessment of hazards commissioned by the National Trust to help provide a strategic picture of potential climate-related risks to State Care Monuments and embed climate change considerations in State Care Monument condition surveys.\n\nMy Department is committed to adapting and mitigating the impacts of climate change on Historic Monuments. We will continue to consider how we best conserve our monuments for future generations.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Historic Environment Division (HED) is the policy lead with regard to historic monuments in NI.
There are 3 principal strands that guide HED’s approach to climate change: mitigation (achieving net zero); managing risks (understanding threats) and adaptation (preparing for climate change).
HED collaborates with a number of partners regarding the impact of climate change on historic monuments and the Department is a member of the UK Heritage Adaptation Partnership (UKHAP).
My Department has part funded research projects working in partnership with the National Trust around evidence-based decision making, adaptation and an ongoing project identifying risks to monuments along our coastline.
HED recently completed a carbon audit on its State Care Monuments and is taking forward recommendations to better understand its carbon footprint and help to establish annual carbon reduction targets.
HED also utilises the evidence-based assessment of hazards commissioned by the National Trust to help provide a strategic picture of potential climate-related risks to State Care Monuments and embed climate change considerations in State Care Monument condition surveys.
My Department is committed to adapting and mitigating the impacts of climate change on Historic Monuments. We will continue to consider how we best conserve our monuments for future generations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209378%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395149","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395149"}},{"id":"395217","reference":"AQO 281/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-16","answered":"2024-04-16","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for his assessment of his Department’s ability to achieve a reduction in emissions by the transport sector by 48% lower than the baseline by 2030.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr O'Dowd","text":"One second. Apologies. The 48% target for 2030 quoted in the Climate Change Act 2022 is a target across all the climate sectors and is not a transport-sector-specific target. There are no specific target figures set for the transport sector. My Department has been working closely with DAERA and other Departments on the preparation of a transport chapter and supporting the quantification work required for the climate action plan. That will outline how the transport sector will contribute to carbon budgets. Through that detailed work, my officials and I realise how challenging the targets will be for the transport sector, particularly regarding the scale of change needed. Decarbonising transport will require us all to think differently about how we travel and how we utilise zero-emissions technologies. However, as the Department lead for the transport sector, which is the second-largest emitting sector, I am working with my officials to better understand how we can decarbonise the transport sector in a balanced way and contribute to the interim targets and the net zero goal of 2050. My officials are currently developing a strong evidence base to inform the development of both the climate action plan and the transport sectoral plan in line with requirements under the 2022 Act."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"I thank the Minister. A part of the transport sector is private cars. Will the Minister confirm how he will commit to exploring push policies that discourage private car usage in Belfast and other city centres and, indeed, large towns across Northern Ireland?"},{"speaker":"Mr O'Dowd","text":"In my response to the previous question, on Grand Central station, I said that we had a state-of-the-art facility coming on board that will encourage people to a modal shift and to start using public transport. There will be a challenge in Belfast over the next number of weeks and months as a result of that development, and there is an opportunity now for the users of private cars to make that modal shift to public transport. Translink will provide more information on this as the situation develops. The clear message is that Belfast is open for business, but we want to ensure modal shift. I am looking at all the options available to ensure that my Department reaches its climate change targets in line with its legal and moral obligations, working in conjunction with my Executive colleagues."},{"speaker":"Miss Brogan","text":"Will the Minister describe what his Department's approach is to decarbonising the transport system, le do thoil"},{"speaker":"","text":"?"},{"speaker":"Mr O'Dowd","text":"The Member will be aware of the recent announcement on PEACE PLUS that we will be investing in an hourly service between Belfast and Dublin. That has been planned in such a way that we will be able to change those train sets to fully decarbonised transport systems, moving forward. We invest heavily in Translink in bringing forward zero-emissions and lower-emissions bus transport as well. That investment programme has been going on for a number of years, and I intend to continue it. We want to see a change for private car usage where possible. As the Member represents a rural constituency, she will be acutely aware that families and businesses rely heavily on the private car. We want to ensure that they move to driving zero-emissions vehicles."},{"speaker":"Mr K Buchanan","text":"I thank the Minister for his answers so far. Staying on the emissions theme, as we speak, the transport sector — lorries and cars — sits in Cookstown, waiting to get through it, which will take approximately 30 minutes. As the public information scheme is on today, will you commit to delivering the Cookstown bypass or bring the train?"},{"speaker":"Mr O'Dowd","text":"There are opportunities with both elements. The all-Ireland strategic rail network plan will be published, hopefully, in the early summer, and I hope that that will allow for greater public connections in that area. Yes, as the Member stated, there is a public event in Cookstown today, and I encourage as many local people as possible to attend and express their views through it. I have made a commitment to delivering a solution in that area. I want to hear the views of the public on the current plan before making a final decision on it. The bypass will provide huge opportunities that will allow the historic town of Cookstown to look at its active travel routes, how to provide a place plan for the town and how to make it more attractive — before you jump on me, I am not suggesting for one second that it is not attractive — to shoppers and others."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20281%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395217","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-04-16&docID=396690#AQO%20281/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395217"}},{"id":"397497","reference":"AQO 272/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-15","answered":"2024-04-15","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 his commitment to hold talks with the British Medical Association on pay and working conditions.","answerText":"My officials met with the three Chairs of the BMA Committees (Consultants, SAS and Junior Doctors) on 15th February 2024 to initiate and open discussions on the way forward. At the meeting the BMA were advised that I had agreed to implement the DDRB recommendations for 2023/24 as a matter of urgency. My officials also reiterated my commitment to further negotiations when I have greater clarity on any final settlement in the ongoing pay negotiations in England and Wales. The BMA indicated that this commitment was insufficient to meet their demands for above inflationary uplifts and full pay restoration.\n\nI further wrote to the Junior Doctors’ Committee on 20th February and again on 5th March outlining my concerns the impact of strike action would have on patient care, and reiterating my belief that there are grounds for productive negotiations on several fronts which include 2024/25 pay, and potentially reforming the Junior Doctor contract, as well as addressing concerns on working conditions. Further meetings with my officials and representatives from the Junior Doctors’ Committee took place 26th March and are planned for April.\n\nA meeting between officials and representatives of the BMA Consultant Committee has also been scheduled for 10th April 2024.\n\nI have throughout advised that I am more than prepared to enter into discussion to see if there is a way where we can move forward without the need for further industrial action.","answerHtml":"My officials met with the three Chairs of the BMA Committees (Consultants, SAS and Junior Doctors) on 15th February 2024 to initiate and open discussions on the way forward. At the meeting the BMA were advised that I had agreed to implement the DDRB recommendations for 2023/24 as a matter of urgency. My officials also reiterated my commitment to further negotiations when I have greater clarity on any final settlement in the ongoing pay negotiations in England and Wales. The BMA indicated that this commitment was insufficient to meet their demands for above inflationary uplifts and full pay restoration.
I further wrote to the Junior Doctors’ Committee on 20th February and again on 5th March outlining my concerns the impact of strike action would have on patient care, and reiterating my belief that there are grounds for productive negotiations on several fronts which include 2024/25 pay, and potentially reforming the Junior Doctor contract, as well as addressing concerns on working conditions. Further meetings with my officials and representatives from the Junior Doctors’ Committee took place 26th March and are planned for April.
A meeting between officials and representatives of the BMA Consultant Committee has also been scheduled for 10th April 2024.
I have throughout advised that I am more than prepared to enter into discussion to see if there is a way where we can move forward without the need for further industrial action.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20272%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397497","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397497"}},{"id":"395187","reference":"AQO 251/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-15","answered":"2024-04-15","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline when nominations for appointment will be sought for Members to the Boards of the North South Implementation Bodies.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly","text":"We are considering a process of identifying Executive nominees to the boards of the North/South implementation bodies. We intend for the Executive nominees to vacancies on the boards of North/South bodies to be progressed in the forthcoming weeks and months, and for appointments to be made at the sectoral meetings."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Can you confirm how the Executive Office intends to improve the work of the North/South bodies so that it aligns with the future Programme for Government, investment strategy and budgets that are approved by the Assembly?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly","text":"The North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC), sectoral bodies and associated work are all rooted in the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement as amended by the St Andrews Agreement. That means that they are focused on the stranded approach. That is right and proper. It sets the parameters for that work. That work recognises that the internal affairs and matters of Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom are a matter for the Northern Ireland and United Kingdom Government. Of course, for work that does align with the Programme for Government within the context of that stranded approach, the appropriate areas of work will be aligned as far as possible."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Toole","text":"You mentioned the stranded approach and the fact that the NSMC's work is set out in parameters in the Good Friday Agreement. None of that is true of the East-West Council. There is no obligation, when the East-West Council meets, for Ministers to bring back any report on what was discussed or for there to be Ministers from multiple parties. Given that your party brought down the institutions in order to, as you said at the time, rebalance east-west with North/South, I presume that you would support the East-West Council coming under the same rules and constraints as the North/South Ministerial Council?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly","text":"I absolutely support full transparency in the work of the East-West Council. It is a body that was, perhaps, missed at the time of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement. Under those arrangements, we had Ireland and United Kingdom bodies and the North/South bodies, but we did not have a body dedicated to focusing on internal UK relationships and arrangements. With this new body, there is huge potential for engagement with not just the UK Government but the north of England, Manchester, Scotland and Wales, with whom we have a huge amount of commonality in many of the challenges and opportunities that we face. I fully support full transparency and all the procedures around that to ensure that Members are fully informed about the exciting work that this body will take forward."},{"speaker":"Ms Sheerin","text":"We are all best served when all the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement are operating in full, and that means the North/South bodies as well as the east-west bodies. As such, I welcome last week's meeting of the NSMC. Will the deputy First Minister outline some of the topics that were discussed at last Monday's NSMC plenary meeting?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Little-Pengelly","text":"As I indicated, it was an initial meeting. Sectoral work on many of the issues that were discussed went on throughout that period. All the sectoral bodies were quorate and able to continue with some of their work. The issues that were discussed were those that, rightly, fall within the areas of responsibility of the North/South Ministerial Council. Those include the Ulster canal and the continued funding of the A5 project. A number of important issues and collaborative projects have been in the pipeline for some considerable time. I know that it has been the cause of frustration for many people, including in the Chamber, that those projects have not progressed. It is important that we continue to collaborate on those matters. As I said at the meeting, it is important that we are good neighbours to the Irish Government. Where it is logical and sits within the appropriate parameters of the institutions, we should, of course, have that positive engagement."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"Question 4 has been withdrawn."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20251%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395187","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-04-15&docID=396689#AQO%20251/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395187"}},{"id":"394901","reference":"AQW 9272/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-20","answerBy":"2024-04-08","answered":"2024-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) whether his Department will review the effectiveness of the 20mph speed limit zones at schools; and (ii) when he will provide an update on new 20mph speed limit schemes.","answerText":"There have been two tranches of part time 20mph speed limits delivered, which introduced these measures at 215 schools, an investment of about £4m. A review is already underway to determine if a further tranche is justified. The findings of this review will be made public later this year.\n\nOne of the best ways to ensure the safety of our roads and fulfil our long-term goal of eliminating death and serious injury on roads by 2050 is by changing driver behaviour. If all of us who are drivers do not change our attitudes towards speeding and careless driving, our death toll, which has increased in the past year, will continue to increase.","answerHtml":"There have been two tranches of part time 20mph speed limits delivered, which introduced these measures at 215 schools, an investment of about £4m. A review is already underway to determine if a further tranche is justified. The findings of this review will be made public later this year.
One of the best ways to ensure the safety of our roads and fulfil our long-term goal of eliminating death and serious injury on roads by 2050 is by changing driver behaviour. If all of us who are drivers do not change our attitudes towards speeding and careless driving, our death toll, which has increased in the past year, will continue to increase.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209272%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394901","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394901"}},{"id":"394900","reference":"AQW 9271/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-20","answerBy":"2024-04-08","answered":"2024-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) when the Historical Environment Division last inspected Kircubbin Harbour; and (ii) when officers will review the state of this historic quay.","answerText":"(i) Kircubbin Harbour was last inspected by a Field Monument Warden of the Historic Environment Division in January 2024.\n\n(ii) Each Field Monument Warden report is reviewed by curatorial staff within the Division. Condition and risk are scored and any changes to the overall condition score are logged and tracked. Reports over recent years have noted the deteriorating condition of the harbour and this has been brought to the attention of the owner.","answerHtml":"(i) Kircubbin Harbour was last inspected by a Field Monument Warden of the Historic Environment Division in January 2024.
(ii) Each Field Monument Warden report is reviewed by curatorial staff within the Division. Condition and risk are scored and any changes to the overall condition score are logged and tracked. Reports over recent years have noted the deteriorating condition of the harbour and this has been brought to the attention of the owner.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209271%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394900","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394900"}},{"id":"394899","reference":"AQW 9270/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-20","answerBy":"2024-04-08","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) when the review of Sport NI will be completed; and (ii) whether there will be a change in objectives to ensure grassroots sports will be supported.","answerText":"The Strategic Review of Sport NI, arranged at the request of the Sport NI Chair and Board, is to identify and understand the cause of governance and control issues so that they can be addressed. The draft report of findings is due in April/May 2024.","answerHtml":"The Strategic Review of Sport NI, arranged at the request of the Sport NI Chair and Board, is to identify and understand the cause of governance and control issues so that they can be addressed. The draft report of findings is due in April/May 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209270%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394899","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394899"}},{"id":"394898","reference":"AQW 9269/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-20","answerBy":"2024-04-08","answered":"2024-04-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities why the Housing Executive was not included in the list of arm's length bodies being reviewed by the Department at their presentation to the Committee for Communities on 7 March 2024.","answerText":"When the Executive agreed to proceed with the New Decade New Approach (NDNA) commitment to review ALBs; individual Ministers were asked to conduct the assessment of their respective ALBs and determine how best they should be rationalised and governed.\n\nThe Northen Ireland Housing Executive’s (NIHE) was already in the midst of a long-term review of the delivery of social housing so it was agreed that the organisation would not be encompassed within an overall DfC Review as well.","answerHtml":"When the Executive agreed to proceed with the New Decade New Approach (NDNA) commitment to review ALBs; individual Ministers were asked to conduct the assessment of their respective ALBs and determine how best they should be rationalised and governed.
The Northen Ireland Housing Executive’s (NIHE) was already in the midst of a long-term review of the delivery of social housing so it was agreed that the organisation would not be encompassed within an overall DfC Review as well.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209269%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394898","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394898"}},{"id":"394897","reference":"AQW 9268/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-20","answerBy":"2024-04-08","answered":"2024-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) what action his Department will take to require private owners of hedging along the section of the A20 Portaferry Road between Teal Rocks and the Flood Gates to cut back hedges from the Department for Infrastructure-owned footpath; and (ii) whether his Department will take legal action against those private owners of hedging to force footpaths to be cleared to the legal minimum.","answerText":"My Department carries out regular routine maintenance inspections on all roads. Inspectors will note trees and hedges, within or immediately adjacent to the road boundaries, which are causing an obstruction, obscuring road signs, or have the potential to create danger for the road user. In those instances where overgrown hedges are identified as causing a danger, officials will contact the landowner requesting their co-operation in having the necessary work undertaken. If the landowner fails to respond, the Department can instigate legal action to have the danger presented by the overgrown hedges addressed, although this action is not usually required.\n\nThe Department seeks to work with landowners to proactively manage safety issues in this way, including by placing notices in the local press and in farming journals reminding landowners of their responsibility regarding hedges and the need to carry out maintenance during the early part of the year, avoiding where possible the bird nesting season from 1 March to 31 August.\n\nMy Department is not aware of any current issues with overgrown hedges on the Portaferry Road, although it is acknowledged that the footway is narrow and it takes very little growth before hedges start to encroach onto the footway. The area will be kept under review and contact will be made with landowners as required.","answerHtml":"My Department carries out regular routine maintenance inspections on all roads. Inspectors will note trees and hedges, within or immediately adjacent to the road boundaries, which are causing an obstruction, obscuring road signs, or have the potential to create danger for the road user. In those instances where overgrown hedges are identified as causing a danger, officials will contact the landowner requesting their co-operation in having the necessary work undertaken. If the landowner fails to respond, the Department can instigate legal action to have the danger presented by the overgrown hedges addressed, although this action is not usually required.
The Department seeks to work with landowners to proactively manage safety issues in this way, including by placing notices in the local press and in farming journals reminding landowners of their responsibility regarding hedges and the need to carry out maintenance during the early part of the year, avoiding where possible the bird nesting season from 1 March to 31 August.
My Department is not aware of any current issues with overgrown hedges on the Portaferry Road, although it is acknowledged that the footway is narrow and it takes very little growth before hedges start to encroach onto the footway. The area will be kept under review and contact will be made with landowners as required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209268%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394897","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394897"}},{"id":"394711","reference":"AQW 9163/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-19","answerBy":"2024-03-22","answered":"2024-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he will commit to (i) repairing; or (ii) resurfacing Shore Road, Portaferry, between Lough Shore Road and Cook Street, in advance of the 2024 tourist season.","answerText":"Resurfacing schemes are funded through my Department’s Structural Maintenance Programme; regrettably, for some time the available investment has not kept pace with what is needed to maintain all of our roads in a reasonable condition.\n\nWhile there are many roads that would benefit from investment, due to limited budget resources, resurfacing work is taken forward through the prioritisation of those deemed most in need for intervention.\n\nI am very aware of the long-term underfunding from which our road network has suffered. Therefore, I have recently announced the immediate investment of an additional £1m in road maintenance to begin to address the growing backlog of pothole repairs. This much needed funding will be used between now and the end of the financial year to target areas of particular need with small scale resurfacing schemes designed to repair areas that have suffered the most and where localised repairs are less effective.\n\nI have also allocated over £8m of additional funding to structural maintenance to allow further large scale resurfacing schemes to be delivered. This represents a significant investment in improving the structural integrity of our road network.\n\nDetails of the planned list of resurfacing schemes for the 2024/25 financial year in the Ards and North Down Borough Council area will be included in the Department’s Annual Report to Council in due course.\n\nMy Department will continue to monitor this area and all defects meeting current intervention levels shall be recorded for repairs in line with set maintenance policy guidelines.","answerHtml":"Resurfacing schemes are funded through my Department’s Structural Maintenance Programme; regrettably, for some time the available investment has not kept pace with what is needed to maintain all of our roads in a reasonable condition.
While there are many roads that would benefit from investment, due to limited budget resources, resurfacing work is taken forward through the prioritisation of those deemed most in need for intervention.
I am very aware of the long-term underfunding from which our road network has suffered. Therefore, I have recently announced the immediate investment of an additional £1m in road maintenance to begin to address the growing backlog of pothole repairs. This much needed funding will be used between now and the end of the financial year to target areas of particular need with small scale resurfacing schemes designed to repair areas that have suffered the most and where localised repairs are less effective.
I have also allocated over £8m of additional funding to structural maintenance to allow further large scale resurfacing schemes to be delivered. This represents a significant investment in improving the structural integrity of our road network.
Details of the planned list of resurfacing schemes for the 2024/25 financial year in the Ards and North Down Borough Council area will be included in the Department’s Annual Report to Council in due course.
My Department will continue to monitor this area and all defects meeting current intervention levels shall be recorded for repairs in line with set maintenance policy guidelines.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209163%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394711","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394711"}},{"id":"394710","reference":"AQW 9162/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-19","answerBy":"2024-04-05","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 8316/22-27, to detail the specific legislation that confirms a recall day is treated as seven days.","answerText":"The orders which extended the expiry date of section 78 of the Coronavirus Act 2020 were made by the confirmatory procedure under section 90(2) of that Act and are subject to the procedure laid out in section 96 of the Act. Section 96(7) of the Coronavirus Act specifies that an order made under the confirmatory procedure ceases to have effect at the end of the period of 40 days beginning with the day on which the order is made unless, during that period, it is approved by resolution of the Assembly.\n\nSection 96(8)(c) states that, when calculating the period of 40 days, no account is to be taken of any time during which the Northern Ireland Assembly is adjourned for more that 6 days.\n\nAny day when the Assembly is recalled would count towards the 40-day period and, in accordance with section 96(8)(c) (following the adjournment of the Assembly at the end of a recall day) the following 6 days would also count towards the 40 days as these are days when the Assembly has not been adjourned for more than 6 days.","answerHtml":"The orders which extended the expiry date of section 78 of the Coronavirus Act 2020 were made by the confirmatory procedure under section 90(2) of that Act and are subject to the procedure laid out in section 96 of the Act. Section 96(7) of the Coronavirus Act specifies that an order made under the confirmatory procedure ceases to have effect at the end of the period of 40 days beginning with the day on which the order is made unless, during that period, it is approved by resolution of the Assembly.
Section 96(8)(c) states that, when calculating the period of 40 days, no account is to be taken of any time during which the Northern Ireland Assembly is adjourned for more that 6 days.
Any day when the Assembly is recalled would count towards the 40-day period and, in accordance with section 96(8)(c) (following the adjournment of the Assembly at the end of a recall day) the following 6 days would also count towards the 40 days as these are days when the Assembly has not been adjourned for more than 6 days.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209162%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394710","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394710"}},{"id":"394709","reference":"AQW 9161/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-19","answerBy":"2024-04-05","answered":"2024-04-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he will commit to ensuring that roads reports, provided to local councils, are also emailed to MLAs who serve the same area.","answerText":"Following the presentation of my Department’s Roads Reports to Councils, the reports are published on my Department’s website. A link to the report is then issued to each Member for their respective council areas. The use of links to the information allows Members to quickly and easily access the reports for each of the relevant council areas.","answerHtml":"Following the presentation of my Department’s Roads Reports to Councils, the reports are published on my Department’s website. A link to the report is then issued to each Member for their respective council areas. The use of links to the information allows Members to quickly and easily access the reports for each of the relevant council areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209161%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394709","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394709"}},{"id":"394708","reference":"AQW 9160/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-19","answerBy":"2024-04-05","answered":"2024-04-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he has any plans to (i) review and identify financing to convert both ferries operating on Strangford Lough to electric; and (ii) work with Queens University, who have harnessed tidal energy in Strangford Lough, to potentially power the ferries.","answerText":"I am committed to taking steps to reduce carbon emissions in line with the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. My Department will be looking into options to potentially decarbonise the ferries, these will be subject to consideration and budget availability.","answerHtml":"I am committed to taking steps to reduce carbon emissions in line with the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. My Department will be looking into options to potentially decarbonise the ferries, these will be subject to consideration and budget availability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209160%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394708","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394708"}},{"id":"394707","reference":"AQW 9159/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-19","answerBy":"2024-04-05","answered":"2024-04-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, following the provision of £1500 cost of living payment by the Minister for Communities to voluntary and community sector organisations, whether he will provide an equal cost of living support payment of £1500 to the voluntary and community sector organisations funded through his Department, such as the Rural Community Transport Partnerships and the urban community organisations.","answerText":"I have approved the provision of funding to community transport and shopmobility organisations for April and May 2024, subject to public expenditure processes and completed grant applications. This grant will be based on the overall level of funding provided in 2023/24 and will allow continuation of services until the incoming 2024/25 budget position is confirmed. I have no plans to provide a cost of living support payment at this time.","answerHtml":"I have approved the provision of funding to community transport and shopmobility organisations for April and May 2024, subject to public expenditure processes and completed grant applications. This grant will be based on the overall level of funding provided in 2023/24 and will allow continuation of services until the incoming 2024/25 budget position is confirmed. I have no plans to provide a cost of living support payment at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209159%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394707","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394707"}},{"id":"394458","reference":"AQW 9069/22-27","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 for his assessment of the impact the work of the five regional homeless nurses has had on (i) the number of Emergency Department visits; (ii) the number of ambulance call-outs; and (iii) the number of patients leaving hospital before they could be treated, in each of the last three financial years.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) do not hold service user data at the granular level required to enable such an analysis and it is therefore not possible to quantify the impact of the regional homeless nurses’ work in terms of the numbers of attendances to Accident & Emergency Departments, the number of ambulance call-outs; or the number of patients leaving hospital before they could be treated, in the last three financial years.\n\nThe impact of the regional homeless nurses stretches beyond unscheduled care attendances in supporting the complex needs of the homeless population. They play an important role in bridging the gap between community and hospital care to the street homeless and those who are in adult homeless hostels by supporting, advocating, educating, empowering, and caring for those within the homeless population.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) do not hold service user data at the granular level required to enable such an analysis and it is therefore not possible to quantify the impact of the regional homeless nurses’ work in terms of the numbers of attendances to Accident & Emergency Departments, the number of ambulance call-outs; or the number of patients leaving hospital before they could be treated, in the last three financial years.
The impact of the regional homeless nurses stretches beyond unscheduled care attendances in supporting the complex needs of the homeless population. They play an important role in bridging the gap between community and hospital care to the street homeless and those who are in adult homeless hostels by supporting, advocating, educating, empowering, and caring for those within the homeless population.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209069%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394458","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394458"}},{"id":"394457","reference":"AQW 9068/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-15","answerBy":"2024-04-04","answered":"2024-11-12","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, when he will answer (i) AQW 5785/22-27; (ii) AQW 5499/22-2; (iii) AQW 5501/22-27; (iv) AQW 5781/22-27; and (v) AQW 5782/22-27.","answerText":"AQW 5785/22-25 was answered on 3rd May 2024.\n\nAQW 5499/22-27 was answered on 21st May 2024.\n\nAQW 5501/22-27 was answered on 23rd May 2024.\n\nAQW 5781/22-27 was answered on 3rd May 2024.\n\nAQW 5782/22-27 was answered on 11th November 2024.","answerHtml":"AQW 5785/22-25 was answered on 3rd May 2024.
AQW 5499/22-27 was answered on 21st May 2024.
AQW 5501/22-27 was answered on 23rd May 2024.
AQW 5781/22-27 was answered on 3rd May 2024.
AQW 5782/22-27 was answered on 11th November 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209068%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394457","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394457"}},{"id":"394456","reference":"AQW 9067/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-15","answerBy":"2024-04-04","answered":"2024-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the budget allocated for homelessness prevention in each of the last five financial years; (ii) what proportion of the overall homelessness services budget this represented; and (iii) what proportion of the revenue expenditure of the regional services budget this represented.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me that the table below reflects the Housing Executive expenditure in relation to homeless prevention as requested:\n\n“\t2019/20\n£k’s\t2020/21\n£k’s\t2021/22\n£k’s\t2022/23\n£k’s\t23/24 Budget\n£k’s\nRevenue\nIncome\t(3,201)\t(1,785)\t(2,220)\t(3,492)\t(3,739)\nExpenditure\t130,932\t148,402\t145,140\t157,585\t156,133\nTotal Net Revenue Expenditure\t127,731\t146,617\t142,920\t154,093\t152,394\n\nTotal Homeless Programme Cost (included in above)\t12,605\t20,850\t24,080\t26,381\t33,548\nHomeless Programme as a portion of Total Net Revenue Exp.\t9.9%\t14.2%\t16.8%\t17.1%\t22.0%\n\nHomeless Prevention (Part of overall Homeless Programme)\nCommunity Prevention and Support Initiatives\t3,012\t2,844\t3,511\t4,356\t4,352\nStrategic Prevention Programme\t336\t785\t1,293\t976\t302\nTotal Homeless Prevention Programme\t3,348\t3,629\t4,804\t5,332\t4,654\n\nHomeless Prevention as a % of total Homeless Programme\t26.6%\t17.4%\t20.0%\t20.2%\t13.9%\nHomeless Prevention as a % of total Net Revenue Exp.\t2.6%\t2.5%\t3.4%\t3.5%\t3.1%”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the 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 have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me that the table below reflects the Housing Executive expenditure in relation to homeless prevention as requested:
| “ | 2019/20 £k’s | 2020/21 £k’s | 2021/22 £k’s | 2022/23 £k’s | 23/24 Budget £k’s |
| Revenue | |||||
| Income | (3,201) | (1,785) | (2,220) | (3,492) | (3,739) |
| Expenditure | 130,932 | 148,402 | 145,140 | 157,585 | 156,133 |
| Total Net Revenue Expenditure | 127,731 | 146,617 | 142,920 | 154,093 | 152,394 |
| Total Homeless Programme Cost (included in above) | 12,605 | 20,850 | 24,080 | 26,381 | 33,548 |
| Homeless Programme as a portion of Total Net Revenue Exp. | 9.9% | 14.2% | 16.8% | 17.1% | 22.0% |
| Homeless Prevention (Part of overall Homeless Programme) | |||||
| Community Prevention and Support Initiatives | 3,012 | 2,844 | 3,511 | 4,356 | 4,352 |
| Strategic Prevention Programme | 336 | 785 | 1,293 | 976 | 302 |
| Total Homeless Prevention Programme | 3,348 | 3,629 | 4,804 | 5,332 | 4,654 |
| Homeless Prevention as a % of total Homeless Programme | 26.6% | 17.4% | 20.0% | 20.2% | 13.9% |
| Homeless Prevention as a % of total Net Revenue Exp. | 2.6% | 2.5% | 3.4% | 3.5% | 3.1%” |
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the 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%209067%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394456","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394456"}},{"id":"394455","reference":"AQW 9066/22-27","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 how many patients each of the five regional homeless nurses have supported, in each of the last three financial years.","answerText":"The information requested is not held centrally by the Department; the data was provided by each Health and Social Care Trust. Please find the 5 Trust responses below:\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust\n\nInformation on the specific number of homeless patients is not available for Belfast HSCT as the homesless nurses work within the Inclusion Health Service multidisciplinary Team.\n\nNorthern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nThe NHSCT homeless health nurse has been in post since October 2022.\n\nSince commencement of post, full health assessments have been completed on 229 clients living in homeless hostels.\n\nAs part of these assessments all clients have been offered HepC and HIV screening.\n\nA large proportion of clients require ongoing review and referrals.\n\nA smaller proportion of clients have required a higher level of enhanced support for several months.\n\nSouth Eastern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nSouth Eastern Trust can confirm the Homeless Health Nurse commenced post in the Trust in October 2022. Prior to this appointment, the Public Health Nurses responded to need on an ad hoc basis.\n\nContacts per year\n\nOctober 2022 to December 2022 : 24\n\nJanuary 2023 to December 2023: 83\n\nJanuary 2024 to March 2024: 13\n\nSouthern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nUnfortunately we do not hold the specific data that would enable us to answer the queries - even if we were to conduct a manual trawl of the records.\n\nWestern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nYear\tApril 2021-March 2022\tApril 2022- March 2023\tApril 2023 – 20th March 2024\nPatients\t451\t355\t352","answerHtml":"The information requested is not held centrally by the Department; the data was provided by each Health and Social Care Trust. Please find the 5 Trust responses below:
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust
Information on the specific number of homeless patients is not available for Belfast HSCT as the homesless nurses work within the Inclusion Health Service multidisciplinary Team.
Northern Health and Social Care Trust
The NHSCT homeless health nurse has been in post since October 2022.
Since commencement of post, full health assessments have been completed on 229 clients living in homeless hostels.
As part of these assessments all clients have been offered HepC and HIV screening.
A large proportion of clients require ongoing review and referrals.
A smaller proportion of clients have required a higher level of enhanced support for several months.
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust
South Eastern Trust can confirm the Homeless Health Nurse commenced post in the Trust in October 2022. Prior to this appointment, the Public Health Nurses responded to need on an ad hoc basis.
Contacts per year
October 2022 to December 2022 : 24
January 2023 to December 2023: 83
January 2024 to March 2024: 13
Southern Health and Social Care Trust
Unfortunately we do not hold the specific data that would enable us to answer the queries - even if we were to conduct a manual trawl of the records.
Western Health and Social Care Trust
| Year | April 2021-March 2022 | April 2022- March 2023 | April 2023 – 20th March 2024 |
| Patients | 451 | 355 | 352 |
The Department of Education works alongside the Education Authority’s (EA) Intercultural Education Service (IES) to provide funding and support to Asylum Seeker and Refugee (ASR) children residing in temporary contingency and dispersal accommodation in Northern Ireland.
IES staff visit ASR contingency hotels on a regular basis to meet with families and discuss educational provision and requirements. This includes ensuring children with Special Educational Needs, who need the support of a specialist placement, can access the statutory assessment process. IES also provide support for these children through their ‘Schools Trauma Advisory and Referral Service’ (STARS); trauma training and other emotional wellbeing advice that support children who have experienced trauma to help ensure they are supported in the continuation of their education.
Further to this, in 2022/23 the Department provided £460k funding for the provision of 60 Welcome Club places (30 primary; 30 post-primary) at two schools (Malvern Primary School (PS) and Integrated College Glengormley (ICG)) in the Greater Belfast area, in response to ASR children being accommodated in contingency hotels. Whilst the post-primary provision has now ended with places having been found in mainstream provision both in ICG and other post-primary schools closer to the young peoples’ accommodation, welcome provision continues to support ASR pupils attending Malvern PS.
During the 2023/24 financial year, the Department provided £795,000 to the EA and Schools from TEO’s ASR Dispersal Fund and a further £40k from the UK Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) to cover additional costs associated with the provision of education for children from the ASR community. Funding was directed toward welcome provision, language skills, transport, IT equipment, uniform assistance, and other costs in removing barriers to education for these children.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209065%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394454","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394454"}},{"id":"394197","reference":"AQW 8964/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide the website diagnostics for the number of uses of homelessness resources provided by CCEA in each of the last five years.","answerText":"DE has contributed to the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plans by providing support to schools, children and young people, through resources provided by CCEA. The downloads to date for the Learning Resources ‘Understanding Homelessness’ are as follows:\n\nKey Stage 1 & 2 total downloads 1,545\n\nKey Stage 3 & 4 total downloads 3,853\n\nDE’s support for this work via CCEA will continue despite the absence of a budget for Departments in respect of the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan.","answerHtml":"DE has contributed to the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plans by providing support to schools, children and young people, through resources provided by CCEA. The downloads to date for the Learning Resources ‘Understanding Homelessness’ are as follows:
Key Stage 1 & 2 total downloads 1,545
Key Stage 3 & 4 total downloads 3,853
DE’s support for this work via CCEA will continue despite the absence of a budget for Departments in respect of the Interdepartmental Homelessness Action Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208964%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394197","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394197"}},{"id":"394196","reference":"AQW 8963/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-03-29","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 progress of the Newtownards library based in Queen's Hall.","answerText":"Further to my response to AQW 5873/22-27, my officials continue to work with Libraries NI to progress the business case for the redevelopment of Newtownards Library on the existing site.","answerHtml":"Further to my response to AQW 5873/22-27, my officials continue to work with Libraries NI to progress the business case for the redevelopment of Newtownards Library on the existing site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208963%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394196","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394196"}},{"id":"394195","reference":"AQW 8962/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-03-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how he will ensure appropriate investment will be provided for shared housing in 2024-25.","answerText":"It will be for the Executive to decide on the level of funding allocated to each NI Department. However, I will seek to maximise the funding allocated to my Department through my engagement in the 2024-25 Budget Process.","answerHtml":"It will be for the Executive to decide on the level of funding allocated to each NI Department. However, I will seek to maximise the funding allocated to my Department through my engagement in the 2024-25 Budget Process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208962%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394195","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394195"}},{"id":"394194","reference":"AQW 8961/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many homes will be included in the Shared Housing programme.","answerText":"My Department has an annual delivery target of 200 shared social units per year. The Shared Housing Programme is currently delivering 2,501 shared social housing units across 76 developments.","answerHtml":"My Department has an annual delivery target of 200 shared social units per year. The Shared Housing Programme is currently delivering 2,501 shared social housing units across 76 developments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208961%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394194","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394194"}},{"id":"394193","reference":"AQW 8960/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","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 when he will bring forward a strategy to move away from fossil fuels for home heating.","answerText":"The Executive’s Energy Strategy, \"The Path to Net Zero Energy,\" (published on 16 December 2021) 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\nMy department is currently 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 domestic and non-domestic consumers to move away from fossil fuels for heating and adopt low carbon heating technologies including heat pumps. Energy Strategy - Path to Net Zero Energy - 2023 Action Plan Report (economy-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Energy Strategy, "The Path to Net Zero Energy," (published on 16 December 2021) 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.
My department is currently 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 domestic and non-domestic consumers to move away from fossil fuels for heating and adopt low carbon heating technologies including heat pumps. 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%208960%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394193","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394193"}},{"id":"393875","reference":"AQW 8840/22-27","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 when he will review the premia payments to teacher training colleges.","answerText":"I recognise the important role of both St Mary’s University College and Stranmillis University College. It is clear that there are significant financial pressures facing all our higher education institutions and their current and prospective students.\n\nI have asked my officials to update me on work to date on a potential review of Higher Education Funding, as well as proposals to take it forward. Any review of Higher Education Funding could give consideration to the issue of premia payments to University Colleges along with all other aspects of their funding.","answerHtml":"I recognise the important role of both St Mary’s University College and Stranmillis University College. It is clear that there are significant financial pressures facing all our higher education institutions and their current and prospective students.
I have asked my officials to update me on work to date on a potential review of Higher Education Funding, as well as proposals to take it forward. Any review of Higher Education Funding could give consideration to the issue of premia payments to University Colleges along with all other aspects of their funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208840%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393875","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393875"}},{"id":"393874","reference":"AQW 8839/22-27","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 of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of teachers required to meet future school needs in (i) 2024; and (ii) 2025.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nThe estimated number of teachers (based on projected number of pupils) required for (i) 2024 is 19,859.3 full-time equivalent teachers and for (ii) 2025 is 19,677.0 full-time equivalent teachers.\n\nHowever, the Board of Governors (BoG) of each school is entitled to determine the number and type of staff required. For a controlled school the Education Authority (EA) appoints the teaching and non teaching staff and is also the employing authority for non-teaching staff in catholic maintained schools. The Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) appoints the teaching staff in catholic maintained schools.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
The estimated number of teachers (based on projected number of pupils) required for (i) 2024 is 19,859.3 full-time equivalent teachers and for (ii) 2025 is 19,677.0 full-time equivalent teachers.
However, the Board of Governors (BoG) of each school is entitled to determine the number and type of staff required. For a controlled school the Education Authority (EA) appoints the teaching and non teaching staff and is also the employing authority for non-teaching staff in catholic maintained schools. The Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) appoints the teaching staff in catholic maintained schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208839%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393874","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393874"}},{"id":"393873","reference":"AQW 8838/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-29","answered":"2024-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the difference between the Integrated Education Strategy compared to the requirements contained in the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022; and (ii) why the strategy does not reflect the requirements defined in the Act.","answerText":"In line with its duty under the Integrated Education Act 2022, the Department published an Integrated Education Action Plan on 26 April 2023 as a constituent part of the first strategy for Integrated Education. That action plan committed DE to fifteen specific actions in delivering implementation of the Act and forms the basis of the Department’s implementation plans. The Strategy and Action Plan are available here: Strategy-integrated-education-northern-ireland and Integrated-education-strategy-action-plan.\n\nThough published before I became Minister, I am satisfied that the Integrated Education Strategy is compliant with the requirements of the Integrated Education Act.","answerHtml":"In line with its duty under the Integrated Education Act 2022, the Department published an Integrated Education Action Plan on 26 April 2023 as a constituent part of the first strategy for Integrated Education. That action plan committed DE to fifteen specific actions in delivering implementation of the Act and forms the basis of the Department’s implementation plans. The Strategy and Action Plan are available here: Strategy-integrated-education-northern-ireland and Integrated-education-strategy-action-plan.
Though published before I became Minister, I am satisfied that the Integrated Education Strategy is compliant with the requirements of the Integrated Education Act.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208838%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393873","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393873"}},{"id":"393872","reference":"AQW 8837/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-29","answered":"2024-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when the action plan, as set out in the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, will be published.","answerText":"In line with its duty under the Integrated Education Act 2022, the Department published an Integrated Education Action Plan on 26 April 2023 as a constituent part of the first strategy for Integrated Education. That action plan committed DE to fifteen specific actions in delivering implementation of the Act and forms the basis of the Department’s implementation plans. The Strategy and Action Plan are available here: Strategy-integrated-education-northern-ireland and Integrated-education-strategy-action-plan.\n\nThough published before I became Minister, I am satisfied that the Integrated Education Strategy is compliant with the requirements of the Integrated Education Act.","answerHtml":"In line with its duty under the Integrated Education Act 2022, the Department published an Integrated Education Action Plan on 26 April 2023 as a constituent part of the first strategy for Integrated Education. That action plan committed DE to fifteen specific actions in delivering implementation of the Act and forms the basis of the Department’s implementation plans. The Strategy and Action Plan are available here: Strategy-integrated-education-northern-ireland and Integrated-education-strategy-action-plan.
Though published before I became Minister, I am satisfied that the Integrated Education Strategy is compliant with the requirements of the Integrated Education Act.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208837%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393872","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393872"}},{"id":"393871","reference":"AQW 8836/22-27","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 of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of the impact that suitable bail accommodation has had on prison population.","answerText":"There are a range of socio-economic factors that have an impact on reoffending, including poverty and social deprivation, mental health issues, addictions, homelessness, and a lack of educational attainment and employment opportunities. These factors contribute to people becoming involved in crime in the first place and are often exacerbated through contact with the criminal justice system, leading to a cycle of offending which can cause significant harm to victims and communities.\n\nManagement information captured by Court Service indicates that a small percentage of defendants are refused bail by the Courts due to having no suitable accommodation. Information disclosed by individuals upon committal to prison, both on remand and sentenced, indicates that the availability of stable accommodation may be a significant issue. 33% of those committed to Maghaberry during 2023 had either come from temporary arrangements with a friend or family member; a hostel; had been living on the streets; or in a night shelter.\n\nEvidence indicates that one of the critical success factors in desistance from reoffending is the provision of stable accommodation on release. It is for this reason that NIPS takes a proactive approach to preventing homelessness by ensuring all prisoners assessed as having accommodation needs are provided with appropriate advice and interventions. Our aim is to ensure that, as far as reasonably practicable, appropriate accommodation, temporary or permanent, and associated support services are in place for each person leaving custody.","answerHtml":"There are a range of socio-economic factors that have an impact on reoffending, including poverty and social deprivation, mental health issues, addictions, homelessness, and a lack of educational attainment and employment opportunities. These factors contribute to people becoming involved in crime in the first place and are often exacerbated through contact with the criminal justice system, leading to a cycle of offending which can cause significant harm to victims and communities.
Management information captured by Court Service indicates that a small percentage of defendants are refused bail by the Courts due to having no suitable accommodation. Information disclosed by individuals upon committal to prison, both on remand and sentenced, indicates that the availability of stable accommodation may be a significant issue. 33% of those committed to Maghaberry during 2023 had either come from temporary arrangements with a friend or family member; a hostel; had been living on the streets; or in a night shelter.
Evidence indicates that one of the critical success factors in desistance from reoffending is the provision of stable accommodation on release. It is for this reason that NIPS takes a proactive approach to preventing homelessness by ensuring all prisoners assessed as having accommodation needs are provided with appropriate advice and interventions. Our aim is to ensure that, as far as reasonably practicable, appropriate accommodation, temporary or permanent, and associated support services are in place for each person leaving custody.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208836%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393871","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393871"}},{"id":"393655","reference":"AQW 8738/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-09-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether answers from the Housing Executive, as requested via Assembly Written Questions, will be made available to the Assembly for publication on its website.","answerText":"Further to comments made by the Speaker on 12 March 2024 I have been seeking information requested by Members from the NI Housing Executive and passing this on to Members.\n\nMy officials have also been working with NIHE regarding the information available on its website.","answerHtml":"Further to comments made by the Speaker on 12 March 2024 I have been seeking information requested by Members from the NI Housing Executive and passing this on to Members.
My officials have also been working with NIHE regarding the information available on its website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208738%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393655"}},{"id":"393654","reference":"AQW 8737/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she has considered changing prisoner release days to the start of the week, enabling accommodation and support to be put in place to coincide with release from custody.","answerText":"My Department appreciates that prisoner release days particularly at the weekends can present challenges for individuals accessing vital support services linked to accommodation.\n\nPrison Rule 30(6) allows remission to be credited to certain prisoners to ensure that they are not released at weekends or on any public holiday in Northern Ireland. Articles 8(6), 13(7) and 14(12) of the Criminal Justice (Northern Ireland Order) 2008 precludes those sentenced under its provisions from availing of remission under this Rule.\n\nHowever, Section 12(2) of the Prison Act 1898 still remains in force for those prisoners. Under this section prisoners due to be released on a Sunday, Christmas Day or Good Friday, are discharged on the day next preceding.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Prison Service currently has no legislative authority to shorten further any custodial period, any change would require further legislation.\n\nWith a particularly congested legislative programme across all of the Executive Departments, it will not be possible for me to bring forward any additional Assembly Bills beyond the three that I am committed to delivering to modernise aspects of the justice system; to reform sentencing arrangements following a review of sentencing policy; and to tackle hate crime.\n\nI have asked officials to monitor ongoing legislative developments in England and Wales, including whether their introduction has had a material impact on reoffending. And, cognisant of the challenges of weekend releases, the Lady Chief Justice has helpfully agreed to move her High Court Bail listings from a Friday commencing 8th April 2024.\n\nWhilst we cannot affect the day of release, the Prison Service does take a proactive approach to prevent homelessness, by ensuring that everyone exiting custody has accommodation on release or is signposted to available options. ‘The protocol for the management of the accommodation and related support needs of people in custody in Northern Ireland’, published in December 2023, sets out a collaborative approach to addressing accommodation needs from NIHE, PBNI and NIPS. To support the implementation of the protocol we will also be introducing NIHE Housing Advisers into prisons in April 2024 to enhance the accommodation advocacy role currently undertaken by our VCS partners, Housing Rights.","answerHtml":"My Department appreciates that prisoner release days particularly at the weekends can present challenges for individuals accessing vital support services linked to accommodation.
Prison Rule 30(6) allows remission to be credited to certain prisoners to ensure that they are not released at weekends or on any public holiday in Northern Ireland. Articles 8(6), 13(7) and 14(12) of the Criminal Justice (Northern Ireland Order) 2008 precludes those sentenced under its provisions from availing of remission under this Rule.
However, Section 12(2) of the Prison Act 1898 still remains in force for those prisoners. Under this section prisoners due to be released on a Sunday, Christmas Day or Good Friday, are discharged on the day next preceding.
The Northern Ireland Prison Service currently has no legislative authority to shorten further any custodial period, any change would require further legislation.
With a particularly congested legislative programme across all of the Executive Departments, it will not be possible for me to bring forward any additional Assembly Bills beyond the three that I am committed to delivering to modernise aspects of the justice system; to reform sentencing arrangements following a review of sentencing policy; and to tackle hate crime.
I have asked officials to monitor ongoing legislative developments in England and Wales, including whether their introduction has had a material impact on reoffending. And, cognisant of the challenges of weekend releases, the Lady Chief Justice has helpfully agreed to move her High Court Bail listings from a Friday commencing 8th April 2024.
Whilst we cannot affect the day of release, the Prison Service does take a proactive approach to prevent homelessness, by ensuring that everyone exiting custody has accommodation on release or is signposted to available options. ‘The protocol for the management of the accommodation and related support needs of people in custody in Northern Ireland’, published in December 2023, sets out a collaborative approach to addressing accommodation needs from NIHE, PBNI and NIPS. To support the implementation of the protocol we will also be introducing NIHE Housing Advisers into prisons in April 2024 to enhance the accommodation advocacy role currently undertaken by our VCS partners, Housing Rights.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208737%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393654"}},{"id":"393653","reference":"AQW 8736/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for a breakdown of all additional monies allocated by him to external partners since 3 February 2024.","answerText":"Since taking up my post, on 3 February, I have been able to allocate £4.6m of funding to external partners. This is broken down in the table below:\n\nAdditional Funding to External Partners\n(since 3 Feb 24 to 13 March 2024)\t£’000\nResource DEL\nSupporting People\t3,000\nLibrary Bookstock\t1,000\nVoluntary & Community sector\t428\nIndependent Library Bodies\t65\nVolunteer Now - 40th Anniversary Event\t40\nCapital DEL\nMusical Instruments Programme\t100\nTotal\t4,633","answerHtml":"Since taking up my post, on 3 February, I have been able to allocate £4.6m of funding to external partners. This is broken down in the table below:
| Additional Funding to External Partners (since 3 Feb 24 to 13 March 2024) | £’000 |
| Resource DEL | |
| Supporting People | 3,000 |
| Library Bookstock | 1,000 |
| Voluntary & Community sector | 428 |
| Independent Library Bodies | 65 |
| Volunteer Now - 40th Anniversary Event | 40 |
| Capital DEL | |
| Musical Instruments Programme | 100 |
| Total | 4,633 |
Since becoming Minister for Communities, on 3 February, I have been able to allocate £4.6m of funding, as at the time of your question, to external partners. Detail on what the funding is being used for is set out below:
Resource DEL
A £3m allocation to the Supporting People Programme that will help sustain housing-related support to vulnerable people within Supporting People schemes. This will assist vital services to some of the most vulnerable people in our society.
A £1m investment in library bookstock which will have a positive impact on lending, membership and participation in Libraries.
A £0.4m allocation to Voluntary and Community Sector that will help sustain the provision of services to individuals and to groups, by helping them with running costs to maintain opening hours.
Additional funding totalling £0.07m for Independent Library bodies to provide support given the rising costs they have faced.
This year represents the 40th year of Volunteers Week and Volunteer Now and a £0.04m allocation I have provided will contribute towards reward and recognition events to thank volunteers.
Capital DEL
An additional £0.1m allocation to the Arts Council NI to fund additional awards under the Musical Instruments Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208735%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393652","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393652"}},{"id":"393651","reference":"AQW 8734/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for a breakdown of the funding for the Access and Inclusion Fund for 2024-25.","answerText":"Given that the Department’s capital budget for 2024/25 has not yet been confirmed no information regarding breakdown of funds for the Access and Inclusion programme is available.\n\nThe capital funding that will be allocated for my Department will need to be prioritised firstly to meet contractual commitments and other inescapable pressures that include health and safety maintenance work.\n\nIf sufficient funds are available to deliver a viable Access and Inclusion programme in 2024/25, I plan to launch the scheme at the earliest opportunity.","answerHtml":"Given that the Department’s capital budget for 2024/25 has not yet been confirmed no information regarding breakdown of funds for the Access and Inclusion programme is available.
The capital funding that will be allocated for my Department will need to be prioritised firstly to meet contractual commitments and other inescapable pressures that include health and safety maintenance work.
If sufficient funds are available to deliver a viable Access and Inclusion programme in 2024/25, I plan to launch the scheme at the earliest opportunity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208734%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393651","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393651"}},{"id":"393091","reference":"AQW 8513/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-08","answerBy":"2024-03-26","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for a breakdown of the funding for the Access and Inclusion Fund for 2023-24.","answerText":"The overall funding made available for the Access and Inclusion Programme for 2023-24 was £720,121. This includes a contribution of £300,000 from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs towards rural projects. The table below breaks down the contribution by council area.\n\nCouncil Area\tTotal Approved\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t£ 43,500\nArds and North Down\t£ 41,497\nArmagh, Banbridge & Craigavon\t£ 96,000\nBelfast City\t£ 30,926\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t£ 60,000\nDerry City and Strabane\t£ 72,948\nFermanagh and Omagh\t£ 89,999\nMid Ulster\t£ 55,591\nMid and East Antrim\t£ 103,500\nNewry, Mourne & Down\t£ 54,700\nNI Museums Council\t£ 71,460\n£ 720,121","answerHtml":"The overall funding made available for the Access and Inclusion Programme for 2023-24 was £720,121. This includes a contribution of £300,000 from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs towards rural projects. The table below breaks down the contribution by council area.
| Council Area | Total Approved |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | £ 43,500 |
| Ards and North Down | £ 41,497 |
| Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon | £ 96,000 |
| Belfast City | £ 30,926 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | £ 60,000 |
| Derry City and Strabane | £ 72,948 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | £ 89,999 |
| Mid Ulster | £ 55,591 |
| Mid and East Antrim | £ 103,500 |
| Newry, Mourne & Down | £ 54,700 |
| NI Museums Council | £ 71,460 |
| £ 720,121 |
The Department’s capital budget for 2024/25 has not yet been confirmed.
The capital funding that will be made available for my Department will need to be prioritised firstly to meet contractual commitments and other inescapable pressures that include health and safety maintenance work.
If sufficient funds are available to deliver a viable Access and Inclusion programme in 2024/25, I plan to launch the scheme at the earliest opportunity to allow organisations ample time to consider potential projects and submit applications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208512%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393090","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393090"}},{"id":"393089","reference":"AQW 8511/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-08","answerBy":"2024-03-26","answered":"2024-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department avails of online programmes to facilitate meetings.","answerText":"All Northern Ireland Civil Service departments, including the Department for Communities, have access to software to support the conduct of remote meetings.","answerHtml":"All Northern Ireland Civil Service departments, including the Department for Communities, have access to software to support the conduct of remote meetings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208511%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393089","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393089"}},{"id":"392838","reference":"AQW 8426/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-07","answerBy":"2024-03-12","answered":"2024-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when he will lay regulations in the Assembly to extend hybrid working for councils using the Local Government (Meetings and Performance) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 regulations.","answerText":"Regulations to provide councils with the flexibility to hold meetings by remote or hybrid means are being developed at pace. I am committed to keeping the gap in provision for remote and hybrid meetings to a minimum.\n\nI will confirm the timeframe for laying the regulations in the Assembly with the Communities Committee as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"Regulations to provide councils with the flexibility to hold meetings by remote or hybrid means are being developed at pace. I am committed to keeping the gap in provision for remote and hybrid meetings to a minimum.
I will confirm the timeframe for laying the regulations in the Assembly with the Communities Committee as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208426%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392838"}},{"id":"392837","reference":"AQW 8425/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-07","answerBy":"2024-03-25","answered":"2024-09-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide a copy of his instruction to officials, setting out his approach to refer Members asking Assembly Written Questions about the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly to that body for an answer.","answerText":"Further to comments made by the Speaker on 12 March 2024 I have been seeking information requested by Members from the NI Housing Executive and passing this on to Members. My officials have been instructed accordingly.","answerHtml":"Further to comments made by the Speaker on 12 March 2024 I have been seeking information requested by Members from the NI Housing Executive and passing this on to Members. My officials have been instructed accordingly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208425%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392837","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392837"}},{"id":"392836","reference":"AQW 8424/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-07","answerBy":"2024-03-25","answered":"2024-11-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for his assessment of how his answers to Assembly Written Questions, referring Members to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly, complies with paragraph 1.5(iii) of the Ministerial Code.","answerText":"This approach was adopted to ensure clarity between the Department’s policy responsibilities and Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s (NIHE) operational remit, as well as to ensure that MLAs receive accurate, timely and full responses. I consider this process to be compliant with paragraph 1.5(iii) of the Ministerial Code.\n\nMaking direct contact with the ALB will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This approach was adopted to ensure clarity between the Department’s policy responsibilities and Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s (NIHE) operational remit, as well as to ensure that MLAs receive accurate, timely and full responses. I consider this process to be compliant with paragraph 1.5(iii) of the Ministerial Code.
Making direct contact with the ALB 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%208424%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392836","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392836"}},{"id":"392835","reference":"AQW 8423/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-07","answerBy":"2024-03-25","answered":"2024-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions he will take to ensure Northern Ireland receives a fair allocation from the Household Support Fund allocated in the budget statement delivered on 6 March 2024.","answerText":"Any Barnett Consequential provided to Northern Ireland from the Household Support Fund announced as part of the Budget Statement on 6 March will be unhypothcated.\n\nI will, however, continue to clearly set out the case for increased funding for all the sectors my Department supports as part of the Executive discussions on the 2024-25 Budget, including Discretionary Support, which is the Northern Ireland equivalent of the Household Support fund. Therefore, I have bid for an additional £12.7m for Discretionary Support as part of the 2024-25 Budget exercise.","answerHtml":"Any Barnett Consequential provided to Northern Ireland from the Household Support Fund announced as part of the Budget Statement on 6 March will be unhypothcated.
I will, however, continue to clearly set out the case for increased funding for all the sectors my Department supports as part of the Executive discussions on the 2024-25 Budget, including Discretionary Support, which is the Northern Ireland equivalent of the Household Support fund. Therefore, I have bid for an additional £12.7m for Discretionary Support as part of the 2024-25 Budget exercise.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208423%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392835","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392835"}},{"id":"392834","reference":"AQW 8422/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-07","answerBy":"2024-03-25","answered":"2024-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for his assessment of how the budget delivered on 6 March 2024 will directly benefit people in Northern Ireland on benefits.","answerText":"My officials have completed an initial assessment of the Spring Budget 2024 and concluded that there are no announcements that will directly benefit people in Northern Ireland who are claiming benefits delivered by the Department for Communities.\n\nIt was announced that the repayment period on budgeting advance loans taken out by claimants on Universal Credit will increase from 12 months to 24 months. This change may be beneficial for some people depending on their personal circumstances and will apply to new budgeting Advances taken out from December 2024.\n\nIt is anticipated that the change will apply in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My officials have completed an initial assessment of the Spring Budget 2024 and concluded that there are no announcements that will directly benefit people in Northern Ireland who are claiming benefits delivered by the Department for Communities.
It was announced that the repayment period on budgeting advance loans taken out by claimants on Universal Credit will increase from 12 months to 24 months. This change may be beneficial for some people depending on their personal circumstances and will apply to new budgeting Advances taken out from December 2024.
It is anticipated that the change will apply in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208422%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392834","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392834"}},{"id":"392555","reference":"AQW 8316/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-06","answerBy":"2024-03-14","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities why his Department stopped the Coronavirus Act 2020 and The Local Government (Meetings and Performance) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 before the 40-day approval period for the current extension.","answerText":"During the period that the Assembly was dissolved, a number of orders were made, by the confirmatory procedure, to extend the expiry date of section 78 of the Coronavirus Act 2020.\n\nThe Coronavirus Act specifies that an order made under the confirmatory procedure ceases to have effect at the end of the period of 40 days beginning with the day on which the order is made unless, during that period, it is approved by resolution of the Assembly. In calculating the 40-day period, no account is taken of any time during which the Assembly is dissolved, in recess for more than 4 days, or adjourned for more than 6 days.\n\nThe Department received advice in calculating the 40-day period which indicates that times when the Assembly was recalled count as 7 days towards the 40-day period i.e. the day of the sitting and the 6 days following, during which the Assembly is adjourned. Section 78 of the Coronavirus Act therefore ceased to have effect on 7 March 2024.\n\nFor clarification the Local Government (Meetings and Performance) Act (NI) 2021 remains in force and provides the vehicle for my department to make more permanent regulations for remote meetings.","answerHtml":"During the period that the Assembly was dissolved, a number of orders were made, by the confirmatory procedure, to extend the expiry date of section 78 of the Coronavirus Act 2020.
The Coronavirus Act specifies that an order made under the confirmatory procedure ceases to have effect at the end of the period of 40 days beginning with the day on which the order is made unless, during that period, it is approved by resolution of the Assembly. In calculating the 40-day period, no account is taken of any time during which the Assembly is dissolved, in recess for more than 4 days, or adjourned for more than 6 days.
The Department received advice in calculating the 40-day period which indicates that times when the Assembly was recalled count as 7 days towards the 40-day period i.e. the day of the sitting and the 6 days following, during which the Assembly is adjourned. Section 78 of the Coronavirus Act therefore ceased to have effect on 7 March 2024.
For clarification the Local Government (Meetings and Performance) Act (NI) 2021 remains in force and provides the vehicle for my department to make more permanent regulations for remote meetings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208316%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392555","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392555"}},{"id":"392554","reference":"AQW 8315/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-06","answerBy":"2024-03-22","answered":"2024-04-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for all written documents, including all emails and departmental correspondence, sent between 3 February 2024 and 4 March 2024 that mention or pertain to Section 78 (local authority meetings) of the Coronavirus Act 2020 and The Local Government (Meetings and Performance) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 to be laid in the Assembly library.","answerText":"Copies of the relevant papers have been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Copies of the relevant papers have been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208315%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392554","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392554"}},{"id":"392553","reference":"AQW 8314/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-06","answerBy":"2024-03-22","answered":"2024-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether staff working in his Department who have disabilities, caring responsibilities or a long-term illness are permitted to work from home and to attend meetings remotely using online meeting platforms.","answerText":"In accordance with NICS HR policy, there are several flexible working arrangements available to all DfC employees, including those with disabilities, caring responsibilities, or a long-term illness, in appropriate circumstances.\n\nIf a staff member requires an adjustment due to a disability, they can make a reasonable adjustment application to their line manager.\n\nAll Northern Ireland Civil Service departments, including the Department for Communities, have access to software to support the conduct of remote meetings for all staff.","answerHtml":"In accordance with NICS HR policy, there are several flexible working arrangements available to all DfC employees, including those with disabilities, caring responsibilities, or a long-term illness, in appropriate circumstances.
If a staff member requires an adjustment due to a disability, they can make a reasonable adjustment application to their line manager.
All Northern Ireland Civil Service departments, including the Department for Communities, have access to software to support the conduct of remote meetings for all staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208314%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392553","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392553"}},{"id":"392552","reference":"AQW 8313/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-06","answerBy":"2024-03-22","answered":"2024-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what consultation he has had with local councils in relation to ending hybrid meetings.","answerText":"Departmental officials wrote to Council Chief Executive Offices on Friday 1st March 2024 informing them of my decision regarding hybrid meetings. The Orders to extend section 78 of the Coronavirus Act, which provided councils with the flexibility to hold meetings by remote/hybrid means during the pandemic, were temporary provisions made under emergency legislation. I did not consider there to be any justification to continue to extend provisions of the Coronavirus Act.\n\nI am committed to providing councils with powers for remote/hybrid meetings and I will be bringing forward regulations, in as quick a timeframe as possible, using powers in the Local Government (Meetings and Performance) Act (NI) 2021.","answerHtml":"Departmental officials wrote to Council Chief Executive Offices on Friday 1st March 2024 informing them of my decision regarding hybrid meetings. The Orders to extend section 78 of the Coronavirus Act, which provided councils with the flexibility to hold meetings by remote/hybrid means during the pandemic, were temporary provisions made under emergency legislation. I did not consider there to be any justification to continue to extend provisions of the Coronavirus Act.
I am committed to providing councils with powers for remote/hybrid meetings and I will be bringing forward regulations, in as quick a timeframe as possible, using powers in the Local Government (Meetings and Performance) Act (NI) 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208313%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392552","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392552"}},{"id":"392551","reference":"AQW 8312/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-06","answerBy":"2024-03-22","answered":"2024-03-13","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 will be any cost of living financial support for students from Northern Ireland who are studying outside Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Eligible students studying in the south and in Great Britain can access student support funding, including maintenance loans and grants. Prior to my taking office, the higher education student support package for academic year 2024/25 had already been determined.\n\nI am, however, acutely aware of the impact that cost of living increases are having on students, including those who are studying away from home. I will be engaging with my officials to consider the support available in future years.","answerHtml":"Eligible students studying in the south and in Great Britain can access student support funding, including maintenance loans and grants. Prior to my taking office, the higher education student support package for academic year 2024/25 had already been determined.
I am, however, acutely aware of the impact that cost of living increases are having on students, including those who are studying away from home. I will be engaging with my officials to consider the support available in future years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208312%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392551","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392551"}},{"id":"390389","reference":"AQW 7423/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-23","answerBy":"2024-03-11","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, following his announcement that publicly funded IVF treatment will increase to one full cycle for eligible women, to provide the rationale for the decision that, to be eligible, a woman has to be on the waiting list on or after 1 October 2022.","answerText":"I established a clinically led Project Board to deliver on the New Decade New Approach commitment to provide three funded cycles of IVF. The Board considered a number of retrospective dates for the increase to one full cycle for eligible women, including back to January 2020 when the NDNA commitment was announced. However, as the passage of time has meant that many of the original options are no longer feasible, following extensive discussion, the Project Board agreed that offering the additional treatment to women who were placed on the waiting list for treatment on or after 1 October 2022 allowed the ability of the service to deliver additional treatment, within current funding and physical capacity, without the complexity that setting an earlier date could cause, including increasing the waiting lists that the Regional Fertility Centre had worked hard to reduce following the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\nWhilst I would support further expansion of the service, it will require recurrent funding assurances, which have not been provided at this time. In addition, the Regional Fertility Centre will need to increase its physical footprint and ensure the appropriate number of specialist staff are available to deliver any further increase in provision.","answerHtml":"I established a clinically led Project Board to deliver on the New Decade New Approach commitment to provide three funded cycles of IVF. The Board considered a number of retrospective dates for the increase to one full cycle for eligible women, including back to January 2020 when the NDNA commitment was announced. However, as the passage of time has meant that many of the original options are no longer feasible, following extensive discussion, the Project Board agreed that offering the additional treatment to women who were placed on the waiting list for treatment on or after 1 October 2022 allowed the ability of the service to deliver additional treatment, within current funding and physical capacity, without the complexity that setting an earlier date could cause, including increasing the waiting lists that the Regional Fertility Centre had worked hard to reduce following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Whilst I would support further expansion of the service, it will require recurrent funding assurances, which have not been provided at this time. In addition, the Regional Fertility Centre will need to increase its physical footprint and ensure the appropriate number of specialist staff are available to deliver any further increase in provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207423%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390389","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390389"}},{"id":"390388","reference":"AQW 7422/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-23","answerBy":"2024-03-11","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 for an update on the full implementation of the New Decade, New Approach commitment for In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).","answerText":"On 15 February, I announced that publicly funded In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment will increase to one full cycle for eligible women.\n\nUntil that point, those women eligible for publicly funded IVF treatment were entitled to receive one fresh and one frozen embryo transfer, even if they achieve a live birth with the first transfer. Under the recent change, any eligible woman who does not achieve a live birth with either her fresh or first frozen embryo transfers, and still has frozen embryos, will be entitled to further treatment until either she has a live birth or she has transferred all her frozen embryos. It is expected that this will benefit approximately 150 women each year.\n\nA woman will be eligible if she meets the published access criteria for IVF and has been placed on the waiting list for publicly funded IVF/ICSI treatment on or after 1 October 2022.\n\nWhilst I would support further expansion of the service, it will require recurrent funding assurances, which have not been provided at this time. In addition, the Regional Fertility Centre will need to increase its physical footprint and ensure the appropriate number of specialist staff are available to deliver any further increase in provision.\n\nA copy of the press release can be accessed at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/increase-funded-ivf-provision .","answerHtml":"On 15 February, I announced that publicly funded In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment will increase to one full cycle for eligible women.
Until that point, those women eligible for publicly funded IVF treatment were entitled to receive one fresh and one frozen embryo transfer, even if they achieve a live birth with the first transfer. Under the recent change, any eligible woman who does not achieve a live birth with either her fresh or first frozen embryo transfers, and still has frozen embryos, will be entitled to further treatment until either she has a live birth or she has transferred all her frozen embryos. It is expected that this will benefit approximately 150 women each year.
A woman will be eligible if she meets the published access criteria for IVF and has been placed on the waiting list for publicly funded IVF/ICSI treatment on or after 1 October 2022.
Whilst I would support further expansion of the service, it will require recurrent funding assurances, which have not been provided at this time. In addition, the Regional Fertility Centre will need to increase its physical footprint and ensure the appropriate number of specialist staff are available to deliver any further increase in provision.
A copy of the press release can be accessed at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/increase-funded-ivf-provision .
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207422%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390388","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390388"}},{"id":"390387","reference":"AQW 7421/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-23","answerBy":"2024-03-11","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 what free mental health counselling is available to those going through publicly funded IVF treatment.","answerText":"All patients accessing publicly funded fertility treatment at the Regional Fertility Centre are offered free counselling sessions. The sessions are available before, during or after patients embark on investigations or treatment.","answerHtml":"All patients accessing publicly funded fertility treatment at the Regional Fertility Centre are offered free counselling sessions. The sessions are available before, during or after patients embark on investigations or treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207421%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390387","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390387"}},{"id":"390386","reference":"AQW 7420/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-23","answerBy":"2024-03-11","answered":"2024-02-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether he intends to review the Shared Housing Programme; and (ii) what consideration he has given to updating the criteria to include all Section 75 groups.","answerText":"My Department has completed two reviews of the Shared Housing Programme, and these have resulted in 28 recommendations which have informed and increased shared housing delivery.\n\nThe Shared Housing Programme transferred to the Housing Executive on 01st February 2024, and therefore, any future reviews will be managed by the Housing Executive.\n\nThe Shared Housing Programme criteria does not consider Section 75 groups as all shared housing schemes are selected from the Social Housing Development Programme which considers and allocates social housing based on an applicant’s housing need.","answerHtml":"My Department has completed two reviews of the Shared Housing Programme, and these have resulted in 28 recommendations which have informed and increased shared housing delivery.
The Shared Housing Programme transferred to the Housing Executive on 01st February 2024, and therefore, any future reviews will be managed by the Housing Executive.
The Shared Housing Programme criteria does not consider Section 75 groups as all shared housing schemes are selected from the Social Housing Development Programme which considers and allocates social housing based on an applicant’s housing need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207420%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390386","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390386"}},{"id":"390385","reference":"AQW 7419/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-23","answerBy":"2024-03-11","answered":"2024-02-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for a breakdown of how much his Department will be investing in the Shared Housing Programme.","answerText":"My Department is establishing the overall position of the former Fresh Start funding with the Department of Finance, and it has identified a £26.5M capital funding requirement to deliver the 2024/25 Shared Housing Programme.","answerHtml":"My Department is establishing the overall position of the former Fresh Start funding with the Department of Finance, and it has identified a £26.5M capital funding requirement to deliver the 2024/25 Shared Housing Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207419%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390385","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390385"}},{"id":"390121","reference":"AQW 7303/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-22","answerBy":"2024-03-08","answered":"2024-02-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the transfer of Shared Housing from the Executive Office to the Housing Executive; and (ii) whether any changes to programme priorities will happen as a result of the transfer.","answerText":"I can confirm that the transfer of the Shared Housing Programme to the Housing Executive completed on 01st February 2024, and that there will be no changes to the programme priorities as a result of the transfer","answerHtml":"I can confirm that the transfer of the Shared Housing Programme to the Housing Executive completed on 01st February 2024, and that there will be no changes to the programme priorities as a result of the transfer
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207303%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390121"}},{"id":"390120","reference":"AQW 7302/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-22","answerBy":"2024-03-08","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, given so many practices have either closed their registration for non-NHS patients or have long waiting lists for new patients, what actions he will take to ensure everyone has access to NHS dentistry services.","answerText":"A key part of the access issues facing patients are the rates being paid to our dentists for treatment. The absence of Executive Ministers has meant that it has not been possible to progress the recommended pay uplifts for staffing groups for 2023/24. This is now my immediate priority. Officials have already been making arrangements in anticipation of funding being made available to ensure that uplifts can be implemented as quickly as possible.\n\nAn additional £95m has been invested in General Dental Services via the Financial Support Scheme and Rebuilding Support Scheme since April 2020. This came to an end in July 2023 due to the severe financial pressures arising from the Department’s 2023/24 budget settlement.\n\nIn addition, a pilot scheme is currently running to provide appointments to unregistered patients who require emergency dental treatment during the working week. If a patient is not registered with a dentist, requires emergency dental treatment, and has been unable to access an appointment, they can contact their local Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) office for advice.\n\nI am also conscious of the progress that has been made in the rest of the UK on dental reform and I will be discussing these issues with officials as soon as possible, to ensure that the sector here in NI is supported in delivering important care to patients. More immediately, officials have been developing investment proposals to further support General Dental Services and I will consider them in early course.","answerHtml":"A key part of the access issues facing patients are the rates being paid to our dentists for treatment. The absence of Executive Ministers has meant that it has not been possible to progress the recommended pay uplifts for staffing groups for 2023/24. This is now my immediate priority. Officials have already been making arrangements in anticipation of funding being made available to ensure that uplifts can be implemented as quickly as possible.
An additional £95m has been invested in General Dental Services via the Financial Support Scheme and Rebuilding Support Scheme since April 2020. This came to an end in July 2023 due to the severe financial pressures arising from the Department’s 2023/24 budget settlement.
In addition, a pilot scheme is currently running to provide appointments to unregistered patients who require emergency dental treatment during the working week. If a patient is not registered with a dentist, requires emergency dental treatment, and has been unable to access an appointment, they can contact their local Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) office for advice.
I am also conscious of the progress that has been made in the rest of the UK on dental reform and I will be discussing these issues with officials as soon as possible, to ensure that the sector here in NI is supported in delivering important care to patients. More immediately, officials have been developing investment proposals to further support General Dental Services and I will consider them in early course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207302%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390120"}},{"id":"390119","reference":"AQW 7301/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-22","answerBy":"2024-03-08","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 whether he will bring forward a voluntary scheme to allow parents to record and receive a certificate to provide recognition of their baby loss in early pregnancy, as is currently available in England.","answerText":"I recognise the impact that pregnancy loss at any stage can have on parents and welcome the recent introduction of pre-24-week pregnancy loss certificates in England, as recommended by the Independent Pregnancy Loss Review commissioned by the Westminster Government.\n\nMy Department will continue to engage with their counterparts in the Department of Health and Social Care in England as the new system is embedded there, with a view to understanding whether it might be possible to implement such a scheme in Northern Ireland, including any associated costs.","answerHtml":"I recognise the impact that pregnancy loss at any stage can have on parents and welcome the recent introduction of pre-24-week pregnancy loss certificates in England, as recommended by the Independent Pregnancy Loss Review commissioned by the Westminster Government.
My Department will continue to engage with their counterparts in the Department of Health and Social Care in England as the new system is embedded there, with a view to understanding whether it might be possible to implement such a scheme in Northern Ireland, including any associated costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207301%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390119","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390119"}},{"id":"390118","reference":"AQW 7300/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-22","answerBy":"2024-03-08","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 whether Northern Ireland will receive a Barnett consequential from the £25 million announced for Women's Health Hubs in England.","answerText":"This was funded from within Department of Health and Social Care’s existing budget and therefore there is no Barnett consequential associated directly with this scheme.","answerHtml":"This was funded from within Department of Health and Social Care’s existing budget and therefore there is no Barnett consequential associated directly with this scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207300%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390118","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390118"}},{"id":"390117","reference":"AQW 7299/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-22","answerBy":"2024-03-08","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 whether he will update the Independent Review of Children’s Social Care Services to include young carers.","answerText":"The Independent Review of Children’s Social Care Services concluded and reported in June 2023 and the focus at this stage is turning to implementation, subject to the outcome of public consultation on the Review’s recommendations. Work is ongoing to analyse the responses to consultation and it is intended to complete that work in mid-late March 2024.\n\nMy Department recognises the need to support young carers to, among other things, protect their health and development in childhood. A Regional Young Carers Service (NIYCS) has been in place since 2007. It is delivered in partnership by Action for Children and Barnardo’s Northern Ireland under contract with my Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group. The service offers young carers individual support, information about illness, peer support groups, personal development, short breaks, advocacy, advice, and signposting to other relevant services.","answerHtml":"The Independent Review of Children’s Social Care Services concluded and reported in June 2023 and the focus at this stage is turning to implementation, subject to the outcome of public consultation on the Review’s recommendations. Work is ongoing to analyse the responses to consultation and it is intended to complete that work in mid-late March 2024.
My Department recognises the need to support young carers to, among other things, protect their health and development in childhood. A Regional Young Carers Service (NIYCS) has been in place since 2007. It is delivered in partnership by Action for Children and Barnardo’s Northern Ireland under contract with my Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group. The service offers young carers individual support, information about illness, peer support groups, personal development, short breaks, advocacy, advice, and signposting to other relevant services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207299%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390117","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390117"}},{"id":"389794","reference":"AQW 7170/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-21","answerBy":"2024-03-07","answered":"2024-04-12","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 (i) whether they will be supporting the Young Carers Covenant; and (ii) to detail how they will ensure support for young carers is built into the next Programme for Government.","answerText":"While, The Executive Office is not responsible for carers policy, we will work with all Ministers to develop an ambitious and impactful Programme for Government and will make sure that this issue is given proper consideration during that process.","answerHtml":"While, The Executive Office is not responsible for carers policy, we will work with all Ministers to develop an ambitious and impactful Programme for Government and will make sure that this issue is given proper consideration during that process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207170%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389794","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389794"}},{"id":"389793","reference":"AQW 7169/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-21","answerBy":"2024-03-07","answered":"2024-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission when the work experience programme will be restarted.","answerText":"Between 2010 and 2014, Assembly Commission staff in the Education Service coordinated work experience requests. Delivered in response to ad hoc requests, the experience was uneven for participants, depending heavily on the availability of staff in various Assembly Commission business areas. Challenges around the Assembly Commission’s responsibilities to young people and managing expectations as the Assembly faced into the final two years of the mandate meant that this ad hoc programme was halted.\n\nPeriods during which the Assembly was not operating normally, together with the COVID-19 years, have limited the potential for a work experience programme since then. However, the development of a new work experience programme is being considered as part of the Assembly Commission’s forthcoming Engagement Strategy. This draft Strategy has not yet been considered or approved by the Assembly Commission.\n\nSuch a new work experience programme, if feasible, will seek to strike the balance of a positive and consistent learning experience for the participants against the demands of Assembly business in a public building. An egalitarian and inclusive programme which offers opportunities across our society will underpin our efforts.\n\nSubject to the feasibility of the proposed work experience programme, consideration of resourcing implications, and consideration and approval of the Engagement Strategy by the Assembly Commission, officials anticipate that a work experience programme could commence in the next 12-18 months.","answerHtml":"Between 2010 and 2014, Assembly Commission staff in the Education Service coordinated work experience requests. Delivered in response to ad hoc requests, the experience was uneven for participants, depending heavily on the availability of staff in various Assembly Commission business areas. Challenges around the Assembly Commission’s responsibilities to young people and managing expectations as the Assembly faced into the final two years of the mandate meant that this ad hoc programme was halted.
Periods during which the Assembly was not operating normally, together with the COVID-19 years, have limited the potential for a work experience programme since then. However, the development of a new work experience programme is being considered as part of the Assembly Commission’s forthcoming Engagement Strategy. This draft Strategy has not yet been considered or approved by the Assembly Commission.
Such a new work experience programme, if feasible, will seek to strike the balance of a positive and consistent learning experience for the participants against the demands of Assembly business in a public building. An egalitarian and inclusive programme which offers opportunities across our society will underpin our efforts.
Subject to the feasibility of the proposed work experience programme, consideration of resourcing implications, and consideration and approval of the Engagement Strategy by the Assembly Commission, officials anticipate that a work experience programme could commence in the next 12-18 months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207169%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389793","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389793"}},{"id":"389792","reference":"AQW 7168/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-21","answerBy":"2024-03-07","answered":"2024-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what action he will take to ensure teachers receive mandatory training to understand and support pupils who are young carers.","answerText":"As part of the Education Welfare Service (EWS) Transformation Programme a need has been identified to utilise specialist practitioners to provide specific support for pupils who are young carers. This role would involve the provision of training to teachers and support staff, working in collaboration with health colleagues and others as appropriate. Implementation of a transformed approach to the EWS is subject to funding.\n\nMy Department continues to work closely with stakeholders to improve the understanding in schools around the role of young carers, the challenges they face, and the support available. In January 2024, my Department issued a ‘Young Carers in Education Digital Awareness Pack’ to all schools. The pack was developed in a collaborative approach with young carers and included a digital poster, guidance on ‘Supporting Young Carers in School’ and a research report produced by Action for Children’s Young Carers Reference Group. My Department will continue to provide assistance to young carers in our educational settings by working closely with colleagues in the Education Authority, other Departments and stakeholders.","answerHtml":"As part of the Education Welfare Service (EWS) Transformation Programme a need has been identified to utilise specialist practitioners to provide specific support for pupils who are young carers. This role would involve the provision of training to teachers and support staff, working in collaboration with health colleagues and others as appropriate. Implementation of a transformed approach to the EWS is subject to funding.
My Department continues to work closely with stakeholders to improve the understanding in schools around the role of young carers, the challenges they face, and the support available. In January 2024, my Department issued a ‘Young Carers in Education Digital Awareness Pack’ to all schools. The pack was developed in a collaborative approach with young carers and included a digital poster, guidance on ‘Supporting Young Carers in School’ and a research report produced by Action for Children’s Young Carers Reference Group. My Department will continue to provide assistance to young carers in our educational settings by working closely with colleagues in the Education Authority, other Departments and stakeholders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207168%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389792","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389792"}},{"id":"389791","reference":"AQW 7167/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-21","answerBy":"2024-03-07","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 what actions he will take to progress a formal register of carers that will include both adult and child carers.","answerText":"To advance the reform of adult social care the Department has established the Social Care Collaborative Forum. The purpose of the Collaborative Forum is to provide a formal mechanism to support opportunities for greater co-operation, co-production and joined up working between the Department, the social care sector, and across Government, to implement the proposals arising out of the Consultation.\n\nThe work of the Forum is being taken forward through a number of workstreams which meet on a regular basis. A Supporting Carers Workstream, co-chaired by Carers (NI) and my Department, has been established with a workplan focused on Carers specific issues including exploring potential options to further develop a centralised register, inclusive of both adult and young carers.\n\nMany of the purposed reforms to adult social care are subject to confirmation of funding and will therefore require prioritisation and planning, and longer-term budget stability to ensure realistic delivery.","answerHtml":"To advance the reform of adult social care the Department has established the Social Care Collaborative Forum. The purpose of the Collaborative Forum is to provide a formal mechanism to support opportunities for greater co-operation, co-production and joined up working between the Department, the social care sector, and across Government, to implement the proposals arising out of the Consultation.
The work of the Forum is being taken forward through a number of workstreams which meet on a regular basis. A Supporting Carers Workstream, co-chaired by Carers (NI) and my Department, has been established with a workplan focused on Carers specific issues including exploring potential options to further develop a centralised register, inclusive of both adult and young carers.
Many of the purposed reforms to adult social care are subject to confirmation of funding and will therefore require prioritisation and planning, and longer-term budget stability to ensure realistic delivery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207167%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389791","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389791"}},{"id":"389521","reference":"AQW 7010/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-20","answerBy":"2024-03-06","answered":"2024-03-01","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) for an update on Project Stratum; and (ii) what actions are being taken to ensure rural dwellers are able to connect to the new system where connection by overhead lines is not possible.","answerText":"(i) Of the more than 81,000 eligible premises which are scheduled for intervention under Project Stratum, over 71,000 have been addressed. 25,000 eligible premises have ordered a broadband service made available through Project Stratum.\n\n(ii) To maximise the number of premises that can connect to the Hypertfast NI full fibre gigabit capable network within the Project Stratum budget, the roll out of the Hyperfast NI network is designed to use existing Openreach infrastructure wherever possible. Where Fibrus need to extend the network or fill in gaps of existing Openreach infrastructure to enable a connection they will install Fibrus poles and other infrastructure in accordance with the original network design and so as to ensure they adhere to contractual obligations to deliver the network on time as well as to maximise the public purse investment in Project Stratum.\n\nWhere householders or businesses wish to deviate from the original network design there may be an additional cost e.g. if they would prefer an underground solution versus an overhead connection using poles. Where connection to the Hyperfast NI network via poles is physically not possible other methods including underground duct connections will be investigated. No installation will take place without the agreement of the household or business and relevant signed wayleaves.","answerHtml":"(i) Of the more than 81,000 eligible premises which are scheduled for intervention under Project Stratum, over 71,000 have been addressed. 25,000 eligible premises have ordered a broadband service made available through Project Stratum.
(ii) To maximise the number of premises that can connect to the Hypertfast NI full fibre gigabit capable network within the Project Stratum budget, the roll out of the Hyperfast NI network is designed to use existing Openreach infrastructure wherever possible. Where Fibrus need to extend the network or fill in gaps of existing Openreach infrastructure to enable a connection they will install Fibrus poles and other infrastructure in accordance with the original network design and so as to ensure they adhere to contractual obligations to deliver the network on time as well as to maximise the public purse investment in Project Stratum.
Where householders or businesses wish to deviate from the original network design there may be an additional cost e.g. if they would prefer an underground solution versus an overhead connection using poles. Where connection to the Hyperfast NI network via poles is physically not possible other methods including underground duct connections will be investigated. No installation will take place without the agreement of the household or business and relevant signed wayleaves.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207010%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389521","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389521"}},{"id":"389520","reference":"AQW 7009/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-20","answerBy":"2024-03-06","answered":"2024-03-01","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 work is being undertaken to create a strategy to move away from the dependence of fossil fuels for home heating.","answerText":"The Executive’s Energy Strategy provides the overall strategic context for energy decarbonisation, including the objective to move away from fossil fuels for home 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\nMy officials are currently progressing policy development on a number of strands relating to residential heating includng a public consultation on a low carbon heat support scheme, a call for Evidence on Biomethane, and a call for evidence on the use of liquid biofuels which are all key components to move households away from fossil fuels. We are also progressing geothermal demonstrator projects at the Stormont Estate and Greenmount Campus, to explore our geothermal potential in supporting heat decarbonisation.\n\nThe pathway to decarbonise heat is complex and will include a range of low carbon technologies. Through this evdience based policy development, all options will be fully considered to ensure that they do not lead to adverse impacts on human health or the environment. Our focus to 2030 will be ensuring that low-regret pathways remain open while focusing on removing the most carbon intensive sources of heating.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Energy Strategy provides the overall strategic context for energy decarbonisation, including the objective to move away from fossil fuels for home 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.
My officials are currently progressing policy development on a number of strands relating to residential heating includng a public consultation on a low carbon heat support scheme, a call for Evidence on Biomethane, and a call for evidence on the use of liquid biofuels which are all key components to move households away from fossil fuels. We are also progressing geothermal demonstrator projects at the Stormont Estate and Greenmount Campus, to explore our geothermal potential in supporting heat decarbonisation.
The pathway to decarbonise heat is complex and will include a range of low carbon technologies. Through this evdience based policy development, all options will be fully considered to ensure that they do not lead to adverse impacts on human health or the environment. Our focus to 2030 will be ensuring that low-regret pathways remain open while focusing on removing the most carbon intensive sources of heating.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207009%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389520","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389520"}},{"id":"389263","reference":"AQW 6877/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","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 consider updating the NI Direct reporting system to (i) allow members of the public to (a) report the flying; and (b) request the removal, of unauthorised flags; and (ii) allow his Department to record data on how many complaints are made about the flying of flags on lamp-posts.","answerText":".\n\nArticle 87 of the Roads (NI) Order 1993 makes it an offence to attach unauthorised signs or advertisements to structures such as lamp posts. One of my Department’s primary considerations is the safety of the public and where unauthorised flags or attachments pose a risk to road users, my Department will seek to remove that hazard. Where there is no such danger, my Department will liaise closely with other key stakeholders and seek to provide a solution.\n\nMembers of the public can report issues with flags erected on DfI infrastructure through the direct line number 0300 200 7899 and call centre staff will add these details to the mapping system.. This allows all reports to be recorded and directed to the relevant maintenance office for investigation.\n\nFinding a sustainable solution to the ongoing problem of illegally erected flags and emblems requires leadership and a united approach. I can assure you that I am committed to working with Executive colleagues and all stakeholders to deal with this issue comprehensively.","answerHtml":".
Article 87 of the Roads (NI) Order 1993 makes it an offence to attach unauthorised signs or advertisements to structures such as lamp posts. One of my Department’s primary considerations is the safety of the public and where unauthorised flags or attachments pose a risk to road users, my Department will seek to remove that hazard. Where there is no such danger, my Department will liaise closely with other key stakeholders and seek to provide a solution.
Members of the public can report issues with flags erected on DfI infrastructure through the direct line number 0300 200 7899 and call centre staff will add these details to the mapping system.. This allows all reports to be recorded and directed to the relevant maintenance office for investigation.
Finding a sustainable solution to the ongoing problem of illegally erected flags and emblems requires leadership and a united approach. I can assure you that I am committed to working with Executive colleagues and all stakeholders to deal with this issue comprehensively.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206877%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389263","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389263"}},{"id":"389262","reference":"AQW 6876/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","answerBy":"2024-03-05","answered":"2024-07-11","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 have any plans to update the Joint Protocol on the display of flags in public areas.","answerText":"Currently there are no plans to update the Joint Protocol in Relation to the Display of Flags in Public Areas (2005).","answerHtml":"Currently there are no plans to update the Joint Protocol in Relation to the Display of Flags in Public Areas (2005).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206876%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389262","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389262"}},{"id":"389054","reference":"AQW 6743/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-16","answerBy":"2024-03-04","answered":"2024-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what consideration has been given to the introduction of hospitality rates relief.","answerText":"I have met with hospitality sector representatives, along with representatives of other sectors and look forward to continuing this work.\n\n65% of the hospitality sector is in receipt of support through my Department’s Small Business Rate Relief scheme which provides businesses with a reduction of between 20% to 50% on their rates.\n\nI will be looking at strategic options for the business rates system in the coming weeks and months. It will be for the Executive to make decisions on any potential specific interventions in line with its overall fiscal capacity and policy priorities.","answerHtml":"I have met with hospitality sector representatives, along with representatives of other sectors and look forward to continuing this work.
65% of the hospitality sector is in receipt of support through my Department’s Small Business Rate Relief scheme which provides businesses with a reduction of between 20% to 50% on their rates.
I will be looking at strategic options for the business rates system in the coming weeks and months. It will be for the Executive to make decisions on any potential specific interventions in line with its overall fiscal capacity and policy priorities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206743%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389054","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389054"}},{"id":"388698","reference":"AQW 6620/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-15","answerBy":"2024-03-01","answered":"2024-03-01","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 regulations needed for the implementation of the Adoption and Children Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerText":"The Adoption and Children Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 (“the Act”) is being implemented on a phased basis over five years, from 2022-2027. This involves the drafting of, and consultation on, approximately twenty-five Statutory Rules and accompanying statutory guidance. A number of Commencement Orders will also be required. To date, two Statutory Rules and one Commencement Order have been made, relating to the renaming of Guardians ad Litem and the Northern Ireland Guardian ad Litem Agency.\n\nWork is ongoing on the drafting of the remaining Statutory Rules which will be required. In April 2025, my Department will publish and lay before the Assembly its first report on the implementation of Parts 1 and 2 of the Act, in accordance with its duty under Section 158.","answerHtml":"The Adoption and Children Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 (“the Act”) is being implemented on a phased basis over five years, from 2022-2027. This involves the drafting of, and consultation on, approximately twenty-five Statutory Rules and accompanying statutory guidance. A number of Commencement Orders will also be required. To date, two Statutory Rules and one Commencement Order have been made, relating to the renaming of Guardians ad Litem and the Northern Ireland Guardian ad Litem Agency.
Work is ongoing on the drafting of the remaining Statutory Rules which will be required. In April 2025, my Department will publish and lay before the Assembly its first report on the implementation of Parts 1 and 2 of the Act, in accordance with its duty under Section 158.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206620%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388698","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388698"}},{"id":"388697","reference":"AQW 6619/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-15","answerBy":"2024-03-01","answered":"2024-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what steps he is taking to help voluntary and community sector organisations that have stopped providing services due to budget cuts.","answerText":"My department did not make cuts to community and voluntary sector grants as part of last year’s budget exercise and my officials are not aware of any community organisation that we fund having stopped providing services.\n\nI recognise the role that the voluntary and community sector plays in providing a wide range of support to people across Northern Ireland and would like to see more organisations being supported, should budget become available.","answerHtml":"My department did not make cuts to community and voluntary sector grants as part of last year’s budget exercise and my officials are not aware of any community organisation that we fund having stopped providing services.
I recognise the role that the voluntary and community sector plays in providing a wide range of support to people across Northern Ireland and would like to see more organisations being supported, should budget become available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206619%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388697","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388697"}},{"id":"388696","reference":"AQW 6618/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-15","answerBy":"2024-03-01","answered":"2024-11-19","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 Equality Act.","answerText":"There are extensive legal protections in place in respect of equality in this jurisdiction. There is also work being undertaken that will enhance the current legislative framework specifically in respect of the Review of the Race Relations (NI) Order 1997.\n\nThere is no agreement on a single Equality Bill.","answerHtml":"There are extensive legal protections in place in respect of equality in this jurisdiction. There is also work being undertaken that will enhance the current legislative framework specifically in respect of the Review of the Race Relations (NI) Order 1997.
There is no agreement on a single Equality Bill.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206618%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388696","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388696"}},{"id":"388472","reference":"AQW 6467/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-14","answerBy":"2024-02-22","answered":"2024-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on when the (i) Anti-Poverty Strategy; (ii) Disability Strategy; (iii) Gender Equality Strategy; and (iv) Sexual Orientation Strategy will be published.","answerText":"I am currently considering the next steps to be taken in relation to the Executive’s Social Inclusion Strategies.","answerHtml":"I am currently considering the next steps to be taken in relation to the Executive’s Social Inclusion Strategies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206467%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388472","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388472"}},{"id":"388471","reference":"AQW 6466/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-14","answerBy":"2024-02-29","answered":"2024-02-29","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 he will work with the Minister of Education to consider formally linking future pay awards for Further Education lecturers to the pay awards for school teachers.","answerText":"While Further Education lecturers’ pay is a matter for the Further Education colleges as employers, I am committed to improving pay for Further Education lecturers.","answerHtml":"While Further Education lecturers’ pay is a matter for the Further Education colleges as employers, I am committed to improving pay for Further Education lecturers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206466%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388471","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388471"}},{"id":"388470","reference":"AQW 6465/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-14","answerBy":"2024-02-29","answered":"2024-04-11","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 any consideration has been given to moving responsibility for the Further Education sector from his Department to the Department of Education.","answerText":"Partnership working and collaboration between the two departments is critical to support all our learners, and the Education Minister and I will be engaging on areas of mutual responsibility and interest.","answerHtml":"Partnership working and collaboration between the two departments is critical to support all our learners, and the Education Minister and I will be engaging on areas of mutual responsibility and interest.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206465%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388470","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388470"}},{"id":"388469","reference":"AQW 6464/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-14","answerBy":"2024-02-29","answered":"2024-04-08","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 a pay award to Further Education lecturers will restore equity and fairness by matching the salary of school teachers.","answerText":"While Further Education lecturers’ pay is a matter for the Further Education colleges as employers, I am committed to improving pay for Further Education lecturers.","answerHtml":"While Further Education lecturers’ pay is a matter for the Further Education colleges as employers, I am committed to improving pay for Further Education lecturers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206464%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388469","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388469"}},{"id":"387785","reference":"AQW 6062/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-09","answerBy":"2024-02-26","answered":"2024-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the Transport Programme for People with Disabilities grants, broken down by recipient, for each year since 2016.","answerText":"Please see tables below setting out the level of grant by recipient in pounds (£), for each year since 2016.\n\nDisability Action Transport Scheme\n\n2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\nDisability Action\t£2,415,000\t£2,384,046\t£2,125,942\t£2,125,942\n2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nDisability Action\t£2,125,942\t£2,125,942\t£2,125,942\t£2,055,077\n\nShopmobility Schemes\n\n2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\nShopmobility Ballymena\t£26,866\t£26,866\t£26,866\t£25,523\nShopmobility Carrickfergus\t£15,102\t£15,102\t£15,102\t£9,575\nShopmobility Belfast – Bangor\t£11,000\t£11,000\t£11,000\t£10,450\nShopmobility Belfast - Connswater\t£25,500\t£25,500\t£25,500\t£24,225\nShopmobility Belfast - Gresham\t£24,500\t£24,500\t£24,500\t£23,275\nShopmobility Belfast - Westgate\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£28,500\nShopmobility Mid Ulster - Cookstown\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£28,500\nShopmobility Mid Ulster - Dungannon\t£27,000\t£27,000\t£27,000\t£25,650\nShopmobility Enniskillen\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£28,500\nShopmobility Foyle\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£28,500\nShopmobility Lisburn\t£13,000\t£13,000\t£13,000\t£12,350\nShopmobility Magherafelt\t£23,409\t£23,409\t£23,408\t£22,238\nShopmobility Newry\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£28,500\nShopmobility Omagh\t£19,000\t£19,000\t£19,000\t£18,050\nShopmobility NI\t£30,519\t£26,500\t£26,500\t£25,175\n\nShopmobility Schemes (continued)\n\n2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nShopmobility Ballymena\t£28,723\t£25,523\t£25,523\t£25,523\nShopmobility Carrickfergus\t£15,947\t£14,347\t£14,347\t£14,347\nShopmobility Belfast – Bangor\t£10,450\t£10,450\t£10,450\t£0\nShopmobility Belfast - Connswater\t£24,225\t£24,225\t£24,225\t£24,225\nShopmobility Belfast - Gresham\t£23,275\t£23,275\t£23,275\t£23,275\nShopmobility Belfast - Westgate\t£28,500\t£28,500\t£28,500\t£28,500\nShopmobility Mid Ulster - Cookstown\t£33,750\t£28,500\t£38,850\t£28,500\nShopmobility Mid Ulster - Dungannon\t£31,250\t£25,650\t£25,650\t£25,650\nShopmobility Enniskillen\t£29,690\t£28,500\t£28,500\t£28,500\nShopmobility Foyle\t£32,054\t£28,500\t£28,500\t£28,500\nShopmobility Lisburn\t£12,350\t£12,350\t£12,350\t£12,350\nShopmobility Magherafelt\t£22,238\t£22,238\t£22,238\t£5,560\nShopmobility Newry\t£28,500\t£28,500\t£28,500\t£28,500\nShopmobility Omagh\t£18,050\t£18,050\t£18,050\t£18,050\nShopmobility NI\t£25,175\t£25,175\t£25,175\t£25,175\n\nInclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee\n\n2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\nInclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee\t£58,000\t£58,000\t£66,600\t£64,000\n2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nInclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee\t£53,100\t£53,000\t£62,000\t£63,000\n\nEasibus Services\n\n2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\nTranslink\t£89,828\t£86,833\t£86,833\t£86,833\n2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nTranslink\t£86,833\t£89,671\t£22,461\t-\n\nAs of 2023/24, the Easibus service is now funded via the Translink Public Service Agreement.","answerHtml":"Please see tables below setting out the level of grant by recipient in pounds (£), for each year since 2016.
Disability Action Transport Scheme
| 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | |
| Disability Action | £2,415,000 | £2,384,046 | £2,125,942 | £2,125,942 |
| 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | |
| Disability Action | £2,125,942 | £2,125,942 | £2,125,942 | £2,055,077 |
Shopmobility Schemes
| 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | |
| Shopmobility Ballymena | £26,866 | £26,866 | £26,866 | £25,523 |
| Shopmobility Carrickfergus | £15,102 | £15,102 | £15,102 | £9,575 |
| Shopmobility Belfast – Bangor | £11,000 | £11,000 | £11,000 | £10,450 |
| Shopmobility Belfast - Connswater | £25,500 | £25,500 | £25,500 | £24,225 |
| Shopmobility Belfast - Gresham | £24,500 | £24,500 | £24,500 | £23,275 |
| Shopmobility Belfast - Westgate | £30,000 | £30,000 | £30,000 | £28,500 |
| Shopmobility Mid Ulster - Cookstown | £30,000 | £30,000 | £30,000 | £28,500 |
| Shopmobility Mid Ulster - Dungannon | £27,000 | £27,000 | £27,000 | £25,650 |
| Shopmobility Enniskillen | £30,000 | £30,000 | £30,000 | £28,500 |
| Shopmobility Foyle | £30,000 | £30,000 | £30,000 | £28,500 |
| Shopmobility Lisburn | £13,000 | £13,000 | £13,000 | £12,350 |
| Shopmobility Magherafelt | £23,409 | £23,409 | £23,408 | £22,238 |
| Shopmobility Newry | £30,000 | £30,000 | £30,000 | £28,500 |
| Shopmobility Omagh | £19,000 | £19,000 | £19,000 | £18,050 |
| Shopmobility NI | £30,519 | £26,500 | £26,500 | £25,175 |
Shopmobility Schemes (continued)
| 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | |
| Shopmobility Ballymena | £28,723 | £25,523 | £25,523 | £25,523 |
| Shopmobility Carrickfergus | £15,947 | £14,347 | £14,347 | £14,347 |
| Shopmobility Belfast – Bangor | £10,450 | £10,450 | £10,450 | £0 |
| Shopmobility Belfast - Connswater | £24,225 | £24,225 | £24,225 | £24,225 |
| Shopmobility Belfast - Gresham | £23,275 | £23,275 | £23,275 | £23,275 |
| Shopmobility Belfast - Westgate | £28,500 | £28,500 | £28,500 | £28,500 |
| Shopmobility Mid Ulster - Cookstown | £33,750 | £28,500 | £38,850 | £28,500 |
| Shopmobility Mid Ulster - Dungannon | £31,250 | £25,650 | £25,650 | £25,650 |
| Shopmobility Enniskillen | £29,690 | £28,500 | £28,500 | £28,500 |
| Shopmobility Foyle | £32,054 | £28,500 | £28,500 | £28,500 |
| Shopmobility Lisburn | £12,350 | £12,350 | £12,350 | £12,350 |
| Shopmobility Magherafelt | £22,238 | £22,238 | £22,238 | £5,560 |
| Shopmobility Newry | £28,500 | £28,500 | £28,500 | £28,500 |
| Shopmobility Omagh | £18,050 | £18,050 | £18,050 | £18,050 |
| Shopmobility NI | £25,175 | £25,175 | £25,175 | £25,175 |
Inclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee
| 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | |
| Inclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee | £58,000 | £58,000 | £66,600 | £64,000 |
| 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | |
| Inclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee | £53,100 | £53,000 | £62,000 | £63,000 |
Easibus Services
| 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | |
| Translink | £89,828 | £86,833 | £86,833 | £86,833 |
| 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | |
| Translink | £86,833 | £89,671 | £22,461 | - |
As of 2023/24, the Easibus service is now funded via the Translink Public Service Agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206062%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387785","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387785"}},{"id":"387784","reference":"AQW 6061/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-09","answerBy":"2024-02-26","answered":"2024-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the Rural Community Transport Fund grant, broken down by recipient, for each year since 2016.","answerText":"Please see details of grant funding awarded under the Rural Transport Fund, broken down by recipient below.\n\n2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\nCDM Community Transport\t£443,085\t£442,308\t£431,533\t£417,983\nDown District Accessible Transport\t£333,543\t£322,975\t£312,758\t£301,787\nEasilink Community Transport\t£334,000\t£333,414\t£322,867\t£381,690\nFermanagh Community Transport\t£350,613\t£349,998\t£338,926\t£326,180\nLagan Valley Rural Transport\t£125,587\t£125,366\t£121,400\t£119,064\nNorth Coast Community Transport\t£419,122\t£418,387\t£405,152\t£477,194\nSouth Antrim Community Transport\t£128,354\t£128,129\t£124,075\t£120,205\nSouthern Area Partnership\t£310,630\t£310,085\t£300,275\t£294,128\nCommunity Transport Association\t£60,000\t£58,000\t£55,100\t£55,100\n\n2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nCDM Community Transport\t£422,611\t£406,900\t£406,900\t£393,337\nDown District Accessible Transport\t£297,120\t£297,120\t£297,120\t£287,216\nEasilink Community Transport\t£306,723\t£306,723\t£306,723\t£296,499\nFermanagh Community Transport\t£321,980\t£321,980\t£321,980\t£311,247\nLagan Valley Rural Transport\t£115,330\t£115,330\t£115,330\t£111,486\nNorth Coast Community Transport\t£384,894\t£384,894\t£384,894\t£372,064\nSouth Antrim Community Transport\t£117,871\t£117,871\t£117,871\t£113,942\nSouthern Area Partnership\t£285,262\t£285,262\t£285,262\t£275,752\nCommunity Transport Association\t£55,100\t£55,100\t£55,100\t£55,100","answerHtml":"Please see details of grant funding awarded under the Rural Transport Fund, broken down by recipient below.
| 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | |
| CDM Community Transport | £443,085 | £442,308 | £431,533 | £417,983 |
| Down District Accessible Transport | £333,543 | £322,975 | £312,758 | £301,787 |
| Easilink Community Transport | £334,000 | £333,414 | £322,867 | £381,690 |
| Fermanagh Community Transport | £350,613 | £349,998 | £338,926 | £326,180 |
| Lagan Valley Rural Transport | £125,587 | £125,366 | £121,400 | £119,064 |
| North Coast Community Transport | £419,122 | £418,387 | £405,152 | £477,194 |
| South Antrim Community Transport | £128,354 | £128,129 | £124,075 | £120,205 |
| Southern Area Partnership | £310,630 | £310,085 | £300,275 | £294,128 |
| Community Transport Association | £60,000 | £58,000 | £55,100 | £55,100 |
| 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | |
| CDM Community Transport | £422,611 | £406,900 | £406,900 | £393,337 |
| Down District Accessible Transport | £297,120 | £297,120 | £297,120 | £287,216 |
| Easilink Community Transport | £306,723 | £306,723 | £306,723 | £296,499 |
| Fermanagh Community Transport | £321,980 | £321,980 | £321,980 | £311,247 |
| Lagan Valley Rural Transport | £115,330 | £115,330 | £115,330 | £111,486 |
| North Coast Community Transport | £384,894 | £384,894 | £384,894 | £372,064 |
| South Antrim Community Transport | £117,871 | £117,871 | £117,871 | £113,942 |
| Southern Area Partnership | £285,262 | £285,262 | £285,262 | £275,752 |
| Community Transport Association | £55,100 | £55,100 | £55,100 | £55,100 |
Legislation would be required to end the Housing Executive’s Right to Buy Scheme. The Executive’s legislative programme has yet to be determined.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206060%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387783","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387783"}},{"id":"387572","reference":"AQW 5936/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-23","answered":"2024-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for his assessment of Carers NI research showing that (i) 46 per cent of Carer’s Allowance recipients in Northern Ireland are living in poverty; and (ii) the rate of food bank use among Carer’s Allowance claimants in Northern Ireland is nearly twice as high as the general carer population.","answerText":"I recognise the important role unpaid carers play within the wider community, as well as the vital support they provide to those who they are caring for. I am mindful of the particular challenges that this group faces, particularly in light of recent events including the COVID-19 pandemic and cost of living crisis.\n\nCarer’s Allowance is the main benefit in the social security system targeted towards unpaid carers – its primary purpose is to provide a measure of financial support for people who give up the opportunity of full-time employment in order to provide regular and substantial care for a severely disabled person. It was never intended to be a wage for caring or to replace lost or forgone earnings in their entirety. As part of the annual benefits up-rating exercise the weekly rate of Carer’s Allowance was increased by 10.1% from April 2023 and will increase by a further 6.7% from April 2024.\n\nDepending on individual circumstances carers on a low income may be able to access additional financial support through income-related benefits, such as Universal Credit, and their associated carer premiums/additions.\n\nThe Discretionary Support Scheme can offer help towards short-term living expenses or with the purchase of household items for those people in an extreme, exceptional or crisis situation. Depending on personal circumstances applicants could be offered either an interest-free loan or a non-repayable grant.\n\nIn addition, the Department’s Make the Call service can carry out an entitlement check to ensure a person is accessing all the benefits and services available to them. It can be contacted via Freephone number 0800 232 1271 or by emailing makethecall@dfcni.gov.uk.\n\nI have noted the recommendations relating to additional support for carers that were made in the Independent Advisory Panel’s Report into the future of welfare mitigations that was published in October 2022.\n\nThe recommendations made in that report and any future mitigation package will need to be assessed in the climate of financial constraint and the requirement to ensure that budgets remain sustainable over the coming years.","answerHtml":"I recognise the important role unpaid carers play within the wider community, as well as the vital support they provide to those who they are caring for. I am mindful of the particular challenges that this group faces, particularly in light of recent events including the COVID-19 pandemic and cost of living crisis.
Carer’s Allowance is the main benefit in the social security system targeted towards unpaid carers – its primary purpose is to provide a measure of financial support for people who give up the opportunity of full-time employment in order to provide regular and substantial care for a severely disabled person. It was never intended to be a wage for caring or to replace lost or forgone earnings in their entirety. As part of the annual benefits up-rating exercise the weekly rate of Carer’s Allowance was increased by 10.1% from April 2023 and will increase by a further 6.7% from April 2024.
Depending on individual circumstances carers on a low income may be able to access additional financial support through income-related benefits, such as Universal Credit, and their associated carer premiums/additions.
The Discretionary Support Scheme can offer help towards short-term living expenses or with the purchase of household items for those people in an extreme, exceptional or crisis situation. Depending on personal circumstances applicants could be offered either an interest-free loan or a non-repayable grant.
In addition, the Department’s Make the Call service can carry out an entitlement check to ensure a person is accessing all the benefits and services available to them. It can be contacted via Freephone number 0800 232 1271 or by emailing makethecall@dfcni.gov.uk.
I have noted the recommendations relating to additional support for carers that were made in the Independent Advisory Panel’s Report into the future of welfare mitigations that was published in October 2022.
The recommendations made in that report and any future mitigation package will need to be assessed in the climate of financial constraint and the requirement to ensure that budgets remain sustainable over the coming years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205936%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387572","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387572"}},{"id":"387571","reference":"AQW 5935/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-23","answered":"2024-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when he will update the Travelling Expenses and Remission of Charges Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004 to enable people in receipt of Universal Credit to avail of free dental treatment, sight tests and support for hospital travel.","answerText":"Preparatory work has recently commenced in advance of updating the Travelling Expenses and Remission of Charges Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004. The focus of work is to reinstate automatic passporting for those eligible to receive free sight tests and free Health Service dental treatment through the Help with Health Care (HwHC) scheme following the migration of their benefits to Universal Credit by the Department for Communities (DfC).\n\nThe Department, in consultation with DfC, has implemented an interim solution to help ensure that people do not lose out on their entitlement. However, this is no longer an automatic system. It is paper based, and individuals must apply for an annual certificate. This has obvious implications for some of our most vulnerable people. While the Department is currently liaising with officials in DfC to explore options for streamline this process, it is clear that there is an urgent need to update our legislation to reinstate automatic passporting to those eligible.\n\nThe Department will seek to maintain, as closely as possible, the caseload of recipients who are eligible for HwHC, balancing the continued protection of the health of members of society who need additional support without adding pressures on HSC budgets. My Department is currently liaising with other NI departments and colleagues in GB. This will inform the decision on setting the income threshold for UC becoming an automated passport benefit. A short public consultation will be conducted in the coming months on proposed changes to our legislation in relation to UC, with the associated legislative process commencing in due course thereafter.","answerHtml":"Preparatory work has recently commenced in advance of updating the Travelling Expenses and Remission of Charges Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004. The focus of work is to reinstate automatic passporting for those eligible to receive free sight tests and free Health Service dental treatment through the Help with Health Care (HwHC) scheme following the migration of their benefits to Universal Credit by the Department for Communities (DfC).
The Department, in consultation with DfC, has implemented an interim solution to help ensure that people do not lose out on their entitlement. However, this is no longer an automatic system. It is paper based, and individuals must apply for an annual certificate. This has obvious implications for some of our most vulnerable people. While the Department is currently liaising with officials in DfC to explore options for streamline this process, it is clear that there is an urgent need to update our legislation to reinstate automatic passporting to those eligible.
The Department will seek to maintain, as closely as possible, the caseload of recipients who are eligible for HwHC, balancing the continued protection of the health of members of society who need additional support without adding pressures on HSC budgets. My Department is currently liaising with other NI departments and colleagues in GB. This will inform the decision on setting the income threshold for UC becoming an automated passport benefit. A short public consultation will be conducted in the coming months on proposed changes to our legislation in relation to UC, with the associated legislative process commencing in due course thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205935%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387571","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387571"}},{"id":"387570","reference":"AQW 5934/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-23","answered":"2024-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to list each occasion between 1 April 2016 and 31 January 2024 when the Strangford ferry service did not provide a crossing; and the reason why the crossing was unable to be provided.","answerText":"During the period in question, Strangford Lough Ferry Service was scheduled to sail on 170,770 occasions, and for a variety of reasons was unable to do so on 1,979 occasions providing an overall availability of 98.85 %.\n\nThere were 1,502 missed sailings that were not within the control of DfI such as fog and industrial action, while there were 446 missed sailings that were within the control of DfI such as technical issues or maintenance.\n\nI have asked my Officials to supply a full list of these occasions.","answerHtml":"During the period in question, Strangford Lough Ferry Service was scheduled to sail on 170,770 occasions, and for a variety of reasons was unable to do so on 1,979 occasions providing an overall availability of 98.85 %.
There were 1,502 missed sailings that were not within the control of DfI such as fog and industrial action, while there were 446 missed sailings that were within the control of DfI such as technical issues or maintenance.
I have asked my Officials to supply a full list of these occasions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205934%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387570","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387570"}},{"id":"387569","reference":"AQW 5933/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-23","answered":"2024-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to provide the policy used to determine the fare increase for the Strangford ferry; and to confirm where this policy is published.","answerText":"Fares for Strangford Ferry have been unaltered since November 2009. Due to budgetary pressures all Departments were asked to reduce costs or increase revenue where possible, by the Secretary of State.\n\nFollowing the guidance contained in MPMNI published by DoF and the legislation within The Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993 my officials carried out a review of fares and cost recovery. The decision was made in accordance with the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act 2022 on 26 January 2024 that all fares would increase by 33.41%.\n\nThe full price single fare is now £1.30 for a passenger and £7.70 for a car and driver.","answerHtml":"Fares for Strangford Ferry have been unaltered since November 2009. Due to budgetary pressures all Departments were asked to reduce costs or increase revenue where possible, by the Secretary of State.
Following the guidance contained in MPMNI published by DoF and the legislation within The Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993 my officials carried out a review of fares and cost recovery. The decision was made in accordance with the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act 2022 on 26 January 2024 that all fares would increase by 33.41%.
The full price single fare is now £1.30 for a passenger and £7.70 for a car and driver.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205933%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387569","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387569"}},{"id":"387568","reference":"AQW 5932/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-23","answered":"2024-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to provide a copy of the (i) Equality Impact Assessment; and (ii) Rural Needs Impact Assessment, carried out in relation to setting fares for the Strangford ferry.","answerText":"The Equality Impact Assessment is available at https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/infrastructure/strangford-lough-ferry-service-fare-review-2023-s75-screening-form-final.pdf\n\nRural Needs Impact Assessments are not normally published by DfI therefore I have asked my officials to forward you a copy directly.","answerHtml":"The Equality Impact Assessment is available at https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/infrastructure/strangford-lough-ferry-service-fare-review-2023-s75-screening-form-final.pdf
Rural Needs Impact Assessments are not normally published by DfI therefore I have asked my officials to forward you a copy directly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205932%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387568","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387568"}},{"id":"387348","reference":"AQW 5785/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-07","answerBy":"2024-02-22","answered":"2024-05-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many (i) actionable voids; and (ii) non-actionable voids did the (a) Housing Executive; and (b) housing associations, hold on 1 February in each of the last ten years.","answerText":"Actionable and non-actionable voids are an operational matter for the Housing Executive. You should, therefore, direct your question to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive at public.affairsunit@nihe.gov.uk\n\nThe Department does not hold information on actionable and non-actionable voids for housing associations. You should, therefore, seek the information requested from the relevant organisations.","answerHtml":"Actionable and non-actionable voids are an operational matter for the Housing Executive. You should, therefore, direct your question to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive at public.affairsunit@nihe.gov.uk
The Department does not hold information on actionable and non-actionable voids for housing associations. You should, therefore, seek the information requested from the relevant organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205785%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387348","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387348"}},{"id":"387347","reference":"AQW 5784/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-07","answerBy":"2024-02-22","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 to outline the budget provided to the Supporting People Programme in each of the last ten financial years to 2023/24.","answerText":"Please see the table below for a breakdown of funding provided for Supporting People since 2014/15.\n\nFinancial Year\tAmount of SP Funding £'000\n2023/24\t72,866\n2022/23\t78,519\n2021/22\t71,275\n2020/21\t73,582\n2019/20\t73,279\n2018/19\t71,863\n2017/18\t73,764\n2016/17\t77,807\n2015/16\t72,768\n2014/15\t71,809","answerHtml":"Please see the table below for a breakdown of funding provided for Supporting People since 2014/15.
| Financial Year | Amount of SP Funding £'000 |
| 2023/24 | 72,866 |
| 2022/23 | 78,519 |
| 2021/22 | 71,275 |
| 2020/21 | 73,582 |
| 2019/20 | 73,279 |
| 2018/19 | 71,863 |
| 2017/18 | 73,764 |
| 2016/17 | 77,807 |
| 2015/16 | 72,768 |
| 2014/15 | 71,809 |
The Department does not hold the information requested prior to 2017 as the Department for Communities was established in May 2016. Please see the below table for a breakdown of funding provided for homelessness services from 2017 to date (2020 – 2022 include figures for COVID-19 budgets).
| 17-18 | 18-19 | 19-20 | 20-21 | 21-22 | 22-23 | 23-24 |
| £’000 | £’000 | £’000 | £’000 | £’000 | £’000 | £’000 |
| 9,640 | 10,262 | 12,605 | 20,850 | 24,080 | 26,381 | 33,503 |
Spend on non-standard temporary accommodation placements is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. You should therefore direct your question to the Housing Executive’s 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%205782%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387345","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387345"}},{"id":"387344","reference":"AQW 5781/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-07","answerBy":"2024-02-22","answered":"2024-05-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the financial spend by the Housing Executive on the provision of single let temporary accommodation in each of the last ten financial years, including 2023/24.","answerText":"Spend on single let temporary accommodation is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. You should therefore direct your question to the Housing Executive’s dedicated MLA response team, which can be contacted at public.affairsunit@nihe.gov.uk","answerHtml":"Spend on single let temporary accommodation is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. You should therefore direct your question to the Housing Executive’s 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%205781%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387344","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387344"}},{"id":"386964","reference":"AQW 5501/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-05","answerBy":"2024-02-20","answered":"2024-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many cases of damp or condensation have been reported to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, in each of the last five years, broken down by council area.","answerText":"Reports of damp and condensation cases is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nYou should therefore direct your question to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive at public.affairsunit@nihe.gov.uk","answerHtml":"Reports of damp and condensation cases is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
You should therefore direct your question to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive 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%205501%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=386964","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=386964"}},{"id":"386963","reference":"AQW 5500/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-05","answerBy":"2024-02-20","answered":"2024-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of households in housing arrears to the twenty Housing Associations; and (ii) the average household arrears, in each of the last five years, broken down by Housing Association.","answerText":"My Department does not hold the information requested.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold the information requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205500%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=386963","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=386963"}},{"id":"386962","reference":"AQW 5499/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-05","answerBy":"2024-02-20","answered":"2024-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of households in housing arrears to the Housing Executive; and, (ii) the average household arrears, in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency and council area.","answerText":"The number of households in housing arrears to the Housing Executive and the average household arrears 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 households in housing arrears to the Housing Executive and the average household arrears 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%205499%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=386962","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=386962"}},{"id":"386961","reference":"AQW 5498/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-05","answerBy":"2024-02-20","answered":"2024-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline (i) the average percentage increase in rents; and, (ii) the average total increase in rents for each year between 2014-2024 for social homes owned by each of the twenty housing associations in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My Department does not hold this information for 2014/15, 2015/16, 2016/17 or 2023/24. The average increase in rents for social homes owned by each of the twenty housing associations in Northern Ireland from 2017/18 – 2022/23 are set out in the table below:\n\nRegistered Housing Association\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\nAbbeyfield & Wesley\t3%\t3.60%\t3%\t3.45\t2.20%\t5.15%\nAlpha\t1.55%\t4.49%\t2.08%\t2.70%\t1.50%\t4.80%\nApex\t2%\t2%\t3%\t2.75%\t1%\t3.75%\nArbour\t2%\t3.50%\t3.25%\t2.65%\t1.10%\t3.95%\nArk\t2%\t2%\t3%\t2.90%\t1.50%\t4.10%\nChoice\t1.90%\t2.79%\t2.25%\t1.47%\t3.48%\t8.50%\nClanmil\t0%\t4.52%\t2.90%\t2.92%\t1%\t3.90%\nConnswater\t3%\t2.22%\t1.97%\t1.70%\t1.60%\t5.90%\nCovenanter\t0%\t7.66%\t2.44%\t1.56%\t3.15%\t1.75%\nGrove\t0%\t3%\t2.80%\t0%\t0%\t2.90%\nHabinteg\t1.25%\t1.50%\t1.50%\t2.90%\t2.90%\t4.00%\nNewington\t2%\t3.50%\t2.60%\t2.70%\t1.50%\t4.10%\nNICHA\t2%\t2%\t1.40%\t1.35%\t0.50%\t3.10%\nNorth Belfast\t0%\t4%\t3.30%\t0%\t1.30%\t3.80%\nRadius\t1.75%\t2.75%\t3%\t2.50%\t1%\t3.00%\nRural\t1.99%\t2.40%\t2.45%\t1%\t4.10%\t7.00%\nSt Matthews\t2.95%\t1.50%\t2.95%\t0%\t1.60%\t4.95%\nTriangle\t1.50%\t2.80%\t2.40%\t1.70%\t0%\t3.10%\nWoodvale and Shankill\t0%\t2%\t2.40%\t2.70%\t1.50%\t4.60%\n\nii) My Department does not hold the information requested.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold this information for 2014/15, 2015/16, 2016/17 or 2023/24. The average increase in rents for social homes owned by each of the twenty housing associations in Northern Ireland from 2017/18 – 2022/23 are set out in the table below:
| Registered Housing Association | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 |
| Abbeyfield & Wesley | 3% | 3.60% | 3% | 3.45 | 2.20% | 5.15% |
| Alpha | 1.55% | 4.49% | 2.08% | 2.70% | 1.50% | 4.80% |
| Apex | 2% | 2% | 3% | 2.75% | 1% | 3.75% |
| Arbour | 2% | 3.50% | 3.25% | 2.65% | 1.10% | 3.95% |
| Ark | 2% | 2% | 3% | 2.90% | 1.50% | 4.10% |
| Choice | 1.90% | 2.79% | 2.25% | 1.47% | 3.48% | 8.50% |
| Clanmil | 0% | 4.52% | 2.90% | 2.92% | 1% | 3.90% |
| Connswater | 3% | 2.22% | 1.97% | 1.70% | 1.60% | 5.90% |
| Covenanter | 0% | 7.66% | 2.44% | 1.56% | 3.15% | 1.75% |
| Grove | 0% | 3% | 2.80% | 0% | 0% | 2.90% |
| Habinteg | 1.25% | 1.50% | 1.50% | 2.90% | 2.90% | 4.00% |
| Newington | 2% | 3.50% | 2.60% | 2.70% | 1.50% | 4.10% |
| NICHA | 2% | 2% | 1.40% | 1.35% | 0.50% | 3.10% |
| North Belfast | 0% | 4% | 3.30% | 0% | 1.30% | 3.80% |
| Radius | 1.75% | 2.75% | 3% | 2.50% | 1% | 3.00% |
| Rural | 1.99% | 2.40% | 2.45% | 1% | 4.10% | 7.00% |
| St Matthews | 2.95% | 1.50% | 2.95% | 0% | 1.60% | 4.95% |
| Triangle | 1.50% | 2.80% | 2.40% | 1.70% | 0% | 3.10% |
| Woodvale and Shankill | 0% | 2% | 2.40% | 2.70% | 1.50% | 4.60% |
ii) My Department does not hold the information requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205498%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=386961","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=386961"}},{"id":"386960","reference":"AQW 5497/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-05","answerBy":"2024-02-20","answered":"2024-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline (i) the average percentage increase in rents; and (ii) the average total increase in rents for each year between 2014-2024 for social homes owned by the Housing Executive.","answerText":"In January 2024, my Department approved the 2024/2025 rent increase for NIHE homes of CPI+1%. This is equivalent to an increase of 7.7%, £5.72 per week.\n\nThe average increase in rents each year, 2014/15 to 2024/25:\n\nYEAR\t% RENT INCREASE\tAVERAGE RENT (£)\tAVERAGE RENT INCREASE (£)\n2014/15\t4.2\t63.52\t2.64\n2015/16\t4.85\t66.60\t3.08\n2016/17\t0.0\t66.60\t0.00\n2017/18\t0.0\t66.60\t0.00\n2018/19\t0.0\t66.60\t0.00\n2019/20\t0.0\t66.60\t0.00\n2020/21\t2.7\t68.39\t1.79\n2021/22\t1.5\t69.41\t1.02\n2022/23\t0.0\t69.41\t0.00\n2023/24\t7.0\t74.24\t4.86\n2024/25\t7.7\t79.96\t5.72","answerHtml":"In January 2024, my Department approved the 2024/2025 rent increase for NIHE homes of CPI+1%. This is equivalent to an increase of 7.7%, £5.72 per week.
The average increase in rents each year, 2014/15 to 2024/25:
| YEAR | % RENT INCREASE | AVERAGE RENT (£) | AVERAGE RENT INCREASE (£) |
| 2014/15 | 4.2 | 63.52 | 2.64 |
| 2015/16 | 4.85 | 66.60 | 3.08 |
| 2016/17 | 0.0 | 66.60 | 0.00 |
| 2017/18 | 0.0 | 66.60 | 0.00 |
| 2018/19 | 0.0 | 66.60 | 0.00 |
| 2019/20 | 0.0 | 66.60 | 0.00 |
| 2020/21 | 2.7 | 68.39 | 1.79 |
| 2021/22 | 1.5 | 69.41 | 1.02 |
| 2022/23 | 0.0 | 69.41 | 0.00 |
| 2023/24 | 7.0 | 74.24 | 4.86 |
| 2024/25 | 7.7 | 79.96 | 5.72 |
The answer to both questions is that this funding is being managed directly by the Northern Ireland Office, however my officials have engaged with the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education on the expenditure in line with my Department’s governance duties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205310%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385481","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385481"}},{"id":"385476","reference":"AQW 5305/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-26","answerBy":"2024-02-16","answered":"2024-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what role does the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education have in relation to the Northern Ireland Office funding for Integrated Education Support.","answerText":"The answer to both questions is that this funding is being managed directly by the Northern Ireland Office, however my officials have engaged with the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education on the expenditure in line with my Department’s governance duties.","answerHtml":"The answer to both questions is that this funding is being managed directly by the Northern Ireland Office, however my officials have engaged with the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education on the expenditure in line with my Department’s governance duties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205305%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385476","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385476"}},{"id":"385009","reference":"AQW 5092/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-21","answerBy":"2022-11-07","answered":"2022-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 4064/22-27, to detail the number of times road surfaces had to be made good in the (i) Newry Mourne and Down District; (ii) Lisburn and Castlereagh; and (iii) Belfast City Council areas.","answerText":"Unfortunately my officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time I had remaining in office.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately my officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time I had remaining in office.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205092%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385009","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385009"}},{"id":"384769","reference":"AQW 4958/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-19","answerBy":"2024-02-09","answered":"2024-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the (i) number of households in housing arrears to the Housing Executive; and (ii) the average household arrears, in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency and council area.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive; however, I previously sought the requested information from the Chief Executive in response to the same question you asked in AQW 5499/22-27 and to which I replied on 21 May 2024.\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; however, I previously sought the requested information from the Chief Executive in response to the same question you asked in AQW 5499/22-27 and to which I replied on 21 May 2024.
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%204958%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384769","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384769"}},{"id":"384767","reference":"AQW 4956/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-19","answerBy":"2022-11-03","answered":"2022-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what measures are in place to ensure that people with disabilities can access public transport.","answerText":"The accessibility and inclusivity of our public transport network is vitally important for me and I am fully committed to providing inclusive and accessible Public Transport and facilities for all customers.\n\nI am pleased to advise that both my Department and Translink work closely with the Inclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC) and the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) and value the contributions and advice of public transport users with lived experience of disabilities to inform how we can continually make improvements to the accessibility of the network.\n\nTranslink is currently carrying out a Rail Halt Accessibility Assessment Project which will carry out an accessibility audit of all stations and provide proposals on how a programme of accessibility improvements can be developed and implemented. The project will establish a strategy for the improvements in accessibility at all Rail Halts and IMTAC have been consulted as part of this project and this assessment is expected to be completed in 2024.\n\nTranslink’s website has been independently accredited by The Shaw Trust charity achieving 100% compliance with (WCAG 2.1 AA) web accessibility standards. For any passengers who are deaf and require support from Tranlink’s Contact Centre, an online interpreter service is provided via their website, offering both British and Irish Sign Language services via a three-way video conversation between the Contact Centre Agent, the interpreter and customer.\n\nAs you aware, my Department also provides grant funding to support the delivery of two transport schemes: (1) the Dial-a-Lift (DAL) Scheme, a rural service delivered by11 Rural Community Transport Partnerships and (2) the Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS), which operates in 29 urban towns and cities. These services complement wider public transport services and provide accessible public transport options to those who have difficulty accessing public transport. Vehicles used in the delivery of DAL and DATS have been adapted to suit the needs of those with a disability and drivers have also been trained in dealing with those who have a disability. The main user groups of these services are those with a disability or older people.\n\nThe Concessionary Fares Scheme provides free travel on public transport services to those who are registered blind or who are in receipt of a regular War Disablement Pension or Guaranteed Income Payment from the Service Personnel and Veterans Agency. A half fare concession is available to those who are known to their local Health and Social Care Trust as having a learning disability or are partially sighted, those who are in receipt of the mobility element of the Personal Independence Payment or, those who due to medical reasons, have either been refused a licence to drive a motor vehicle or have had an existing licence revoked.","answerHtml":"The accessibility and inclusivity of our public transport network is vitally important for me and I am fully committed to providing inclusive and accessible Public Transport and facilities for all customers.
I am pleased to advise that both my Department and Translink work closely with the Inclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC) and the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) and value the contributions and advice of public transport users with lived experience of disabilities to inform how we can continually make improvements to the accessibility of the network.
Translink is currently carrying out a Rail Halt Accessibility Assessment Project which will carry out an accessibility audit of all stations and provide proposals on how a programme of accessibility improvements can be developed and implemented. The project will establish a strategy for the improvements in accessibility at all Rail Halts and IMTAC have been consulted as part of this project and this assessment is expected to be completed in 2024.
Translink’s website has been independently accredited by The Shaw Trust charity achieving 100% compliance with (WCAG 2.1 AA) web accessibility standards. For any passengers who are deaf and require support from Tranlink’s Contact Centre, an online interpreter service is provided via their website, offering both British and Irish Sign Language services via a three-way video conversation between the Contact Centre Agent, the interpreter and customer.
As you aware, my Department also provides grant funding to support the delivery of two transport schemes: (1) the Dial-a-Lift (DAL) Scheme, a rural service delivered by11 Rural Community Transport Partnerships and (2) the Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS), which operates in 29 urban towns and cities. These services complement wider public transport services and provide accessible public transport options to those who have difficulty accessing public transport. Vehicles used in the delivery of DAL and DATS have been adapted to suit the needs of those with a disability and drivers have also been trained in dealing with those who have a disability. The main user groups of these services are those with a disability or older people.
The Concessionary Fares Scheme provides free travel on public transport services to those who are registered blind or who are in receipt of a regular War Disablement Pension or Guaranteed Income Payment from the Service Personnel and Veterans Agency. A half fare concession is available to those who are known to their local Health and Social Care Trust as having a learning disability or are partially sighted, those who are in receipt of the mobility element of the Personal Independence Payment or, those who due to medical reasons, have either been refused a licence to drive a motor vehicle or have had an existing licence revoked.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204956%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384767","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384767"}},{"id":"384766","reference":"AQW 4955/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-19","answerBy":"2022-11-03","answered":"2022-10-27","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 cost to the Department of providing taxis for patients to attend outpatient appointments for the last three years.","answerText":"It is not possible for my Department to provide this information in the format requested.","answerHtml":"It is not possible for my Department to provide this information in the format requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204955%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384766","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384766"}},{"id":"384765","reference":"AQW 4954/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-19","answerBy":"2022-11-03","answered":"2022-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what measures are in place to ensure that Deaf people can give informed consent to receive Covid-19 vaccines.","answerText":"Like anyone else, a deaf person can access information on the COVID-19 vaccination programme via the NI Direct webpage. In addition, they can access all the relevant vaccination information leaflets via the PHA link on the same page.\n\nIf they need to speak to a health professional, a free remote interpreting service for British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) users in Northern Ireland has been introduced which provides the facility for deaf people to communicate with any health care professional via an interpreter. This should enable a deaf person to make an informed consent decision as to whether or not they wish to book a vaccination slot.\n\nIf they have been invited by their own GP to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, then their GP should take into account their patient’s particular needs.\n\nWhen attending a vaccination appointment, arrangements can be put in place to ensure additional time is given and if necessary, interpreter services can be arranged.","answerHtml":"Like anyone else, a deaf person can access information on the COVID-19 vaccination programme via the NI Direct webpage. In addition, they can access all the relevant vaccination information leaflets via the PHA link on the same page.
If they need to speak to a health professional, a free remote interpreting service for British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) users in Northern Ireland has been introduced which provides the facility for deaf people to communicate with any health care professional via an interpreter. This should enable a deaf person to make an informed consent decision as to whether or not they wish to book a vaccination slot.
If they have been invited by their own GP to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, then their GP should take into account their patient’s particular needs.
When attending a vaccination appointment, arrangements can be put in place to ensure additional time is given and if necessary, interpreter services can be arranged.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204954%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384765","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384765"}},{"id":"384764","reference":"AQW 4953/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-19","answerBy":"2024-02-09","answered":"2024-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the (i) number of households in housing arrears to the twenty Housing Associations operating in NI; and (ii) the average household arrears, in each of the last five years, broken down by Housing Association.","answerText":"AQW 4953/22-27\n\nKellie Armstrong MLA has asked\n\nThe Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of households in housing arrears to the twenty Housing Associations; and (ii) the average household arrears, in each of the last five years, broken down by Housing Association.\n\nAnswer\n\nThis Assembly question has been answered in February 2024, AQW 5500/22-27 refers. The response remains that my Department does not hold the information requested.","answerHtml":"AQW 4953/22-27
Kellie Armstrong MLA has asked
The Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of households in housing arrears to the twenty Housing Associations; and (ii) the average household arrears, in each of the last five years, broken down by Housing Association.
Answer
This Assembly question has been answered in February 2024, AQW 5500/22-27 refers. The response remains that my Department does not hold the information requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204953%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384764","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384764"}},{"id":"384574","reference":"AQW 4859/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-18","answerBy":"2022-10-21","answered":"2024-05-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether her Department is responsible for agreeing the pay settlement for Northern Ireland Housing Executive employees.","answerText":"My Department has no role in the negotiation or agreement of the pay settlement for Housing Executive employees. The pay settlement for Housing Executive workers is agreed at U.K. Level through collective bargaining arrangements.\n\nThese are wholly matters for the Housing Executive, TUS and its employees. I will, in line with DoF guidance, need to approve the pay award once an agreed settlement has been reached.","answerHtml":"My Department has no role in the negotiation or agreement of the pay settlement for Housing Executive employees. The pay settlement for Housing Executive workers is agreed at U.K. Level through collective bargaining arrangements.
These are wholly matters for the Housing Executive, TUS and its employees. I will, in line with DoF guidance, need to approve the pay award once an agreed settlement has been reached.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204859%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384574","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384574"}},{"id":"384196","reference":"AQW 4683/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-13","answerBy":"2024-02-05","answered":null,"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 what plans are in place to enable Rural Support to continue to deliver the Plough On project when current funding ends.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204683%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384196","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384196"}},{"id":"384194","reference":"AQW 4681/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-13","answerBy":"2024-02-05","answered":"2024-05-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what measures she has taken to ensure welfare mitigation measures are protected in the absence of an Executive post 28 October 2022.","answerText":"On 31 January 2022 the Assembly approved the Welfare Supplementary Payment (Extension) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022. This legislation extended the period for which all Welfare Supplementary Payments, excluding the Social Sector Size Criteria, could be paid up to 31 March 2025. Further legislation extended the Social Sector Size Criteria mitigation payments for an indefinite period.\n\nThe Welfare Supplementary Payments (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 introduced a statutory requirement on my Department to produce a report setting out an assessment of the operation of each of the ongoing Welfare Supplementary Payment schemes by 31 March 2025.","answerHtml":"On 31 January 2022 the Assembly approved the Welfare Supplementary Payment (Extension) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022. This legislation extended the period for which all Welfare Supplementary Payments, excluding the Social Sector Size Criteria, could be paid up to 31 March 2025. Further legislation extended the Social Sector Size Criteria mitigation payments for an indefinite period.
The Welfare Supplementary Payments (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 introduced a statutory requirement on my Department to produce a report setting out an assessment of the operation of each of the ongoing Welfare Supplementary Payment schemes by 31 March 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204681%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384194","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384194"}},{"id":"384159","reference":"AQW 4646/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-13","answerBy":"2024-02-05","answered":"2024-05-30","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 meeting she had with her Scottish and Welsh counterparts in relation to the Shared Prosperity Fund or other hypothecated funding from Westminster.","answerText":"I do not hold any information on the previous Minister’s engagements with the other devolved administrations.","answerHtml":"I do not hold any information on the previous Minister’s engagements with the other devolved administrations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204646%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384159","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384159"}},{"id":"384158","reference":"AQW 4645/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-13","answerBy":"2024-02-05","answered":"2024-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what work is being undertaken by her Department to ensure opportunities arising from PEACE PLUS funding can be accessed.","answerText":"My Department, along with other the government departments, both North and South, have been working closely with the Special European Programmes Body (SEUPB), the Managing Authority for PEACEPLUS, on the content and implementation of the new programme.\n\nThis is particularly reflected in Theme 1 (Building Peaceful and Thriving Communities) Investment Areas 1.2, Empowering Communities (€30m) and 1.4 Reimaging Communities (€75m) for which the Department for Communities will be an Accountable Department.\n\nIn July 2023 the Department participated in a hybrid pre-application workshop for Investment Area 1.4 which provided advice, guidance, and practical support in relation to preparing an application. The event attracted over 400 attendees either in person or on-line. The call for applications to Investment Area 1.4 closed in September 2023.\n\nPre-application support for Investment Area 1.2, Empowering Communities, will also be undertaken prior to the opening of the call for applications later in 2024.\n\nWhilst there is specific action being taken in relation to the PEACEPLUS Programme it should be set within the context of the ongoing work that my Department takes to incentivise, support and enhance community empowerment through an innovative and sustainable community and voluntary sector.","answerHtml":"My Department, along with other the government departments, both North and South, have been working closely with the Special European Programmes Body (SEUPB), the Managing Authority for PEACEPLUS, on the content and implementation of the new programme.
This is particularly reflected in Theme 1 (Building Peaceful and Thriving Communities) Investment Areas 1.2, Empowering Communities (€30m) and 1.4 Reimaging Communities (€75m) for which the Department for Communities will be an Accountable Department.
In July 2023 the Department participated in a hybrid pre-application workshop for Investment Area 1.4 which provided advice, guidance, and practical support in relation to preparing an application. The event attracted over 400 attendees either in person or on-line. The call for applications to Investment Area 1.4 closed in September 2023.
Pre-application support for Investment Area 1.2, Empowering Communities, will also be undertaken prior to the opening of the call for applications later in 2024.
Whilst there is specific action being taken in relation to the PEACEPLUS Programme it should be set within the context of the ongoing work that my Department takes to incentivise, support and enhance community empowerment through an innovative and sustainable community and voluntary sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204645%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384158","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384158"}},{"id":"384157","reference":"AQW 4644/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-13","answerBy":"2024-02-05","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) why patients in the South Eastern Trust are waiting over three months for smear test results; and (ii) how many weeks is it currently taking for smear test results to be issued in the South Eastern Trust area.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204644%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384157","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384157"}},{"id":"383236","reference":"AQW 4201/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-06","answerBy":"2022-10-21","answered":"2024-09-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to list all the Shared Housing projects across NI; and (ii) when they completed or will be completed.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The table below details all new Shared Housing projects developed/being developed by housing associations across Northern Ireland (either under the Together: Building a United Community programme or the Housing for All programme). A column is included for the Actual or Estimated Completion Month.\n\nHousing association\tScheme Name\tUnits\tActual Start Month\tActual / Estimated Completion Month\nApex\tRavenhill Road, Belfast\t67\tMar-11\tDec-14\nClanmil\tFelden, Newtownabbey\t97\tMar-13\tMar-17\nChoice\tCrossgar Road, Saintfield\t12\tFeb-14\tJan-16\nFold\tRavenhill Avenue, Belfast\t86\tMar-14\tOct-16\nFold\tBurn Road, Cookstown\t58\tDec-14\tDec-16\nChoice\tAntrim Road, Ballynahinch\t24\tMar-16\tMar-18\nChoice\tMarket Road, Ballymena\t36\tMar-16\tSep-18\nClanmil\tMain Street, Dundrum\t16\tMar-16\tAug-18\nClanmil\tDromore Street, Banbridge\t32\tMar-16\tDec-18\nClanmil\tEmbankment, Belfast\t55\tMar-17\tApr-19\nRadius\tLaurelhill Ph2, Coleraine\t30\tMar-17\tMay-18\nApex\tGarvaghy Avenue, Portglenone\t10\tMar-17\tJun-18\nRadius\tCarland Road, Dungannon\t38\tJun-17\tJul-18\nApex\tCoolnafinney, Eglinton\t14\tMar-18\tFeb-19\nApex\tWoodside Avenue, Omagh\t14\tMar-18\tJul-19\nApex\tFennel Road, Antrim\t10\tMar-18\tJun-19\nClanmil\tDownpatrick Street, Crossgar\t20\tMar-18\tFeb-20\nTriangle\tArdmore Road, Armagh\t23\tMar-18\tSep-21\nRural\tLismore Road, Sion Mills\t14\tJun-18\tNov-19\nConnswater\tAbbeyville, Newtownabbey\t35\tDec-18\tMar-19\nHabinteg\tGirona Avenue, Portrush\t10\tMar-19\tDec-20\nRadius\t42 Belfast Road, Newry\t16\tMar-19\tOct-20\nHabinteg\tThe Spencer, Holywood\t30\tMar-19\tFeb-20\nClanmil\tGlenwhirry Court\t36\tMar-19\tJun-22\nApex\tSycamore Drive, Killymeal Road\t42\tMar-19\tMar-22\nRadius\tArdmore Road, Newry\t45\tMar-19\tMar-22\nTriangle\t33-35 Galgorm Road, Ballymena\t26\tMar-19\tNov-20\nTriangle\tBroadway Avenue, Ballymena\t27\tMar-19\tDec-21\nRadius\tColeraine Road, Portstewart\t75\tOct-19\tMar-22\nTriangle\tDoury Road, Ballymena\t11\tJan-20\tJun-21\nApex\tAreema Drive, Dunmurry\t22\tMar-20\tApr-22\nArk\tCauseway Road, Newcastle\t10\tJul-20\tNov-20\nRadius\tEbrington PS, Derry\t49\tAug-20\tMar-22\nChoice\tMoira Road, Lisburn\t17\tAug-20\tJun-21\nArbour\tBelfast Road, Newry\t21\tOct-20\tNov-22\nClanmil\tCastlewellan Road, Newcastle\t11\tOct-20\tMar-22\nRadius\tCamowen Woods, Omagh\t8\tOct-20\tFeb-21\nApex\tRathmoyle, Ballycastle\t28\tMar-21\tJan-24\nArk\tOgle Street, Armagh\t42\tMar-21\tMar-24\nChoice\tMullaghmore Road, Dungannon\t28\tMar-21\tJun-24\nClanmil\tMolesworth Plaza, Cookstown\t15\tMar-21\tOct-22\nRadius\tWoodbrook, Omagh\t12\tMar-21\tMay-23\nTriangle\t31 Belfast Road, Antrim\t26\tMar-21\tApr-22\nArbour\tDundrum Road, Newcastle\t18\tJul-21\tSep-24\nApex\tAlder Road, Derry\t46\tNov-21\tDec-23\nClanmil\tCarrick Retirement Village\t48\tNov-21\tFeb-24\nArk\tFrances Street, Newtownards\t12\tJan-22\tApr-24\nApex\tBallygudden Road, Eglinton\t9\tMar-22\tAug-23\nApex\tKillymeal Road (Sycamore Drive), Dungannon Ph2\t54\tMar-22\tMay-24\nArk\tMalone Mews, Belfast\t14\tMar-22\tOct-24\nClanmil\tLough Neagh Terrace, Crumlin\t24\tMar-22\tDec-25\nTriangle\tChurch Street, Limavady\t23\tMar-22\tApr-22\nTriangle\tChurch Street, Limavady Ph2\t12\tMar-22\tMay-22\nChoice\tStiles Way, Antrim\t18\tMar-22\tSep-24\nRadius\tSt Patrick's Barracks\t116\tAug-22\tApr-25\nRadius\tThe Promenade, Newcastle\t19\tSep-22\tMay-24\nRadius\tRiverside, Antrim\t16\tNov-22\tJun-24\nArk\tQuarry Heights, Newtownards\t23\tNov-22\tFeb-24\nArk\t58 Hillsborough Road, Lisburn\t11\tMar-23\tAug-24\nClanmil\tDeerpark Hotel, Antrim\t33\tMar-23\tMar-25\nHabinteg\tMelmount Road, Sion Mills\t12\tMar-23\tMay-24\nApex\tBallinderry Road, Lisburn\t113\tMar-23\tJan-26\nChoice\tPark Hill/Ballyoan, Derry\t190\tMar-23\tAug-26\nRadius\tGasworks, Belfast\t94\tMar-23\tAug-25\nRural\tSion Mills (Melmount Road)\t15\tMay-23\tApr-24\nNB Housing\t283-285 Kingsway, Dunmurry\t14\tSep-23\tJan-25\nArbour\tCommercial Road, Banbridge\t59\tOct-23\tSep-25\nArbour\tMountjoy Road, Omagh\t31\tJan-24\tNov-26\nRural\tKilnadore Brae, Cushendall\t34\tMar-24\tOct-26\nConnswater\t14 Cedarhurst, Belfast\t36\tMar-24\tFeb-26”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The table below details all new Shared Housing projects developed/being developed by housing associations across Northern Ireland (either under the Together: Building a United Community programme or the Housing for All programme). A column is included for the Actual or Estimated Completion Month.
| Housing association | Scheme Name | Units | Actual Start Month | Actual / Estimated Completion Month |
| Apex | Ravenhill Road, Belfast | 67 | Mar-11 | Dec-14 |
| Clanmil | Felden, Newtownabbey | 97 | Mar-13 | Mar-17 |
| Choice | Crossgar Road, Saintfield | 12 | Feb-14 | Jan-16 |
| Fold | Ravenhill Avenue, Belfast | 86 | Mar-14 | Oct-16 |
| Fold | Burn Road, Cookstown | 58 | Dec-14 | Dec-16 |
| Choice | Antrim Road, Ballynahinch | 24 | Mar-16 | Mar-18 |
| Choice | Market Road, Ballymena | 36 | Mar-16 | Sep-18 |
| Clanmil | Main Street, Dundrum | 16 | Mar-16 | Aug-18 |
| Clanmil | Dromore Street, Banbridge | 32 | Mar-16 | Dec-18 |
| Clanmil | Embankment, Belfast | 55 | Mar-17 | Apr-19 |
| Radius | Laurelhill Ph2, Coleraine | 30 | Mar-17 | May-18 |
| Apex | Garvaghy Avenue, Portglenone | 10 | Mar-17 | Jun-18 |
| Radius | Carland Road, Dungannon | 38 | Jun-17 | Jul-18 |
| Apex | Coolnafinney, Eglinton | 14 | Mar-18 | Feb-19 |
| Apex | Woodside Avenue, Omagh | 14 | Mar-18 | Jul-19 |
| Apex | Fennel Road, Antrim | 10 | Mar-18 | Jun-19 |
| Clanmil | Downpatrick Street, Crossgar | 20 | Mar-18 | Feb-20 |
| Triangle | Ardmore Road, Armagh | 23 | Mar-18 | Sep-21 |
| Rural | Lismore Road, Sion Mills | 14 | Jun-18 | Nov-19 |
| Connswater | Abbeyville, Newtownabbey | 35 | Dec-18 | Mar-19 |
| Habinteg | Girona Avenue, Portrush | 10 | Mar-19 | Dec-20 |
| Radius | 42 Belfast Road, Newry | 16 | Mar-19 | Oct-20 |
| Habinteg | The Spencer, Holywood | 30 | Mar-19 | Feb-20 |
| Clanmil | Glenwhirry Court | 36 | Mar-19 | Jun-22 |
| Apex | Sycamore Drive, Killymeal Road | 42 | Mar-19 | Mar-22 |
| Radius | Ardmore Road, Newry | 45 | Mar-19 | Mar-22 |
| Triangle | 33-35 Galgorm Road, Ballymena | 26 | Mar-19 | Nov-20 |
| Triangle | Broadway Avenue, Ballymena | 27 | Mar-19 | Dec-21 |
| Radius | Coleraine Road, Portstewart | 75 | Oct-19 | Mar-22 |
| Triangle | Doury Road, Ballymena | 11 | Jan-20 | Jun-21 |
| Apex | Areema Drive, Dunmurry | 22 | Mar-20 | Apr-22 |
| Ark | Causeway Road, Newcastle | 10 | Jul-20 | Nov-20 |
| Radius | Ebrington PS, Derry | 49 | Aug-20 | Mar-22 |
| Choice | Moira Road, Lisburn | 17 | Aug-20 | Jun-21 |
| Arbour | Belfast Road, Newry | 21 | Oct-20 | Nov-22 |
| Clanmil | Castlewellan Road, Newcastle | 11 | Oct-20 | Mar-22 |
| Radius | Camowen Woods, Omagh | 8 | Oct-20 | Feb-21 |
| Apex | Rathmoyle, Ballycastle | 28 | Mar-21 | Jan-24 |
| Ark | Ogle Street, Armagh | 42 | Mar-21 | Mar-24 |
| Choice | Mullaghmore Road, Dungannon | 28 | Mar-21 | Jun-24 |
| Clanmil | Molesworth Plaza, Cookstown | 15 | Mar-21 | Oct-22 |
| Radius | Woodbrook, Omagh | 12 | Mar-21 | May-23 |
| Triangle | 31 Belfast Road, Antrim | 26 | Mar-21 | Apr-22 |
| Arbour | Dundrum Road, Newcastle | 18 | Jul-21 | Sep-24 |
| Apex | Alder Road, Derry | 46 | Nov-21 | Dec-23 |
| Clanmil | Carrick Retirement Village | 48 | Nov-21 | Feb-24 |
| Ark | Frances Street, Newtownards | 12 | Jan-22 | Apr-24 |
| Apex | Ballygudden Road, Eglinton | 9 | Mar-22 | Aug-23 |
| Apex | Killymeal Road (Sycamore Drive), Dungannon Ph2 | 54 | Mar-22 | May-24 |
| Ark | Malone Mews, Belfast | 14 | Mar-22 | Oct-24 |
| Clanmil | Lough Neagh Terrace, Crumlin | 24 | Mar-22 | Dec-25 |
| Triangle | Church Street, Limavady | 23 | Mar-22 | Apr-22 |
| Triangle | Church Street, Limavady Ph2 | 12 | Mar-22 | May-22 |
| Choice | Stiles Way, Antrim | 18 | Mar-22 | Sep-24 |
| Radius | St Patrick's Barracks | 116 | Aug-22 | Apr-25 |
| Radius | The Promenade, Newcastle | 19 | Sep-22 | May-24 |
| Radius | Riverside, Antrim | 16 | Nov-22 | Jun-24 |
| Ark | Quarry Heights, Newtownards | 23 | Nov-22 | Feb-24 |
| Ark | 58 Hillsborough Road, Lisburn | 11 | Mar-23 | Aug-24 |
| Clanmil | Deerpark Hotel, Antrim | 33 | Mar-23 | Mar-25 |
| Habinteg | Melmount Road, Sion Mills | 12 | Mar-23 | May-24 |
| Apex | Ballinderry Road, Lisburn | 113 | Mar-23 | Jan-26 |
| Choice | Park Hill/Ballyoan, Derry | 190 | Mar-23 | Aug-26 |
| Radius | Gasworks, Belfast | 94 | Mar-23 | Aug-25 |
| Rural | Sion Mills (Melmount Road) | 15 | May-23 | Apr-24 |
| NB Housing | 283-285 Kingsway, Dunmurry | 14 | Sep-23 | Jan-25 |
| Arbour | Commercial Road, Banbridge | 59 | Oct-23 | Sep-25 |
| Arbour | Mountjoy Road, Omagh | 31 | Jan-24 | Nov-26 |
| Rural | Kilnadore Brae, Cushendall | 34 | Mar-24 | Oct-26 |
| Connswater | 14 Cedarhurst, Belfast | 36 | Mar-24 | Feb-26” |
Shared housing developments are supported through Good Relations Support funding to develop five-year Good Relations Plans, which are delivered to new shared housing tenants and communities within a five-mile radius of each development. The Plans’ events and projects are subject to formal monitoring, including participant feedback and submission of six-monthly monitoring returns to the Department for Communities. Plans are subjected to the requisite Post Project Evaluation process.
In addition, shared housing tenants complete Year 1, Year 3 and Year 5 Tenant Surveys; it is anticipated that these will provide longitudinal data of ‘distance travelled’ in relation to shared living. The Year 1 survey focuses on tenants’ reasons for choosing to live in a shared housing environment and their experiences after a twelve-month period. The Years 3 and 5 surveys focus on tenants’ participation in the Good Relations Plan activities.
The Department has also undertaken two evaluations of the Shared Housing Programme with key stakeholders to measure the effectiveness of the Programme and its reach. These evaluations have resulted in recommendations which have informed and developed the Programme guidance and supporting documents.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204200%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383235","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383235"}},{"id":"383234","reference":"AQW 4199/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-06","answerBy":"2022-10-21","answered":"2022-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how will the loss of European Social Fund funding affect the services which her Department provides.","answerText":"The loss of European Social Funding has the potential to impact negatively on our ability to provide two business critical programmes which currently receive ESF funding. These programmes are NIACRO Working Well and Quest Advantage:\n\nNIACRO Working Well supports people with convictions into employment, education or training.\n\nQuest Advantage equip young people with the skills and qualifications to effectively integrate into employment.\n\nBoth these programmes are core elements of the rehabilitation of people in the care of the NI Prison Service and it is vital that we are able to continue the important work currently being delivered through these projects.","answerHtml":"The loss of European Social Funding has the potential to impact negatively on our ability to provide two business critical programmes which currently receive ESF funding. These programmes are NIACRO Working Well and Quest Advantage:
NIACRO Working Well supports people with convictions into employment, education or training.
Quest Advantage equip young people with the skills and qualifications to effectively integrate into employment.
Both these programmes are core elements of the rehabilitation of people in the care of the NI Prison Service and it is vital that we are able to continue the important work currently being delivered through these projects.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204199%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383234","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383234"}},{"id":"383233","reference":"AQW 4198/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-06","answerBy":"2022-10-21","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when does his Department intervene to deliver appropriate Primary Care services in an area where there are not enough GPs.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204198%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383233","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383233"}},{"id":"383112","reference":"AQW 4132/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-05","answerBy":"2022-10-20","answered":"2022-10-18","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 level of GP services for the Ards Peninsula; and (ii) whether the level of service provision available in October 2022 is meeting contractual levels.","answerText":"I can confirm that all GP Practices in the Ards Peninsula are opened and that all patient lists in the area are currently open with no restrictions in regards to patient registrations.\n\nAll GP Practices in the Ards Peninsula are providing the full range of services that they are required to provide under their GMS Contracts and the service they are providing is meeting their current contractual requirements.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that all GP Practices in the Ards Peninsula are opened and that all patient lists in the area are currently open with no restrictions in regards to patient registrations.
All GP Practices in the Ards Peninsula are providing the full range of services that they are required to provide under their GMS Contracts and the service they are providing is meeting their current contractual requirements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204132%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383112"}},{"id":"383111","reference":"AQW 4131/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-05","answerBy":"2022-10-20","answered":"2022-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what action his Department is taking to ensure there is appropriate primary care health provision in the Ards Peninsula, following GP retirements and closures of GP surgeries due to staffing issues.","answerText":"GP practices are independent contractors and responsibility for replacing doctors who have retired rests with practices themselves. I am aware however that some practices are experiencing difficulties recruiting replacement GPs, particularly in remote areas such as the Ards Peninsula.\n\nI am committed to continuing to work to address the pressures facing GP practices. On 26th September, I announced a £5.5m package of support for GPs. This package provides targeted help to parts of the service that are most under pressure by investing £1m in a new Attract, Recruit, Retain scheme to help attract GPs in hard-to-recruit areas. It also boosts the support team for GP practices who are experiencing difficulty by an additional £680k.\n\nThe SPPG and Department of Health are aware of the current issues with the GP workforce and an expert working group is currently undertaking a detailed analysis in order to plan for future required GP training places. This is a complex piece of work as it relates not only to the financial resource required to increase GP training places but also to other constraints such as the number of potential eligible applicants in the medical workforce and the time required to increase capacity in the necessary infrastructure required to provide GP training. All these issues are currently being taken into consideration as a matter of urgency\n\nI would like to confirm that no GP Practices have closed in the Ards Peninsula. The SPPG have previously approved a merger between two practices in the area - Windmill Surgery and Cuan Family Practice - on 1st October 2020. The practice merger was approved in order to increase their resilience and help promote stability.\n\nI recognise that being able to access GP services is very important for people across Northern Ireland. My Department has therefore convened a working group to explore issues around access to services, including how technology can be better used to provide improved access for patients. An initial report from the group is anticipated in the autumn.","answerHtml":"GP practices are independent contractors and responsibility for replacing doctors who have retired rests with practices themselves. I am aware however that some practices are experiencing difficulties recruiting replacement GPs, particularly in remote areas such as the Ards Peninsula.
I am committed to continuing to work to address the pressures facing GP practices. On 26th September, I announced a £5.5m package of support for GPs. This package provides targeted help to parts of the service that are most under pressure by investing £1m in a new Attract, Recruit, Retain scheme to help attract GPs in hard-to-recruit areas. It also boosts the support team for GP practices who are experiencing difficulty by an additional £680k.
The SPPG and Department of Health are aware of the current issues with the GP workforce and an expert working group is currently undertaking a detailed analysis in order to plan for future required GP training places. This is a complex piece of work as it relates not only to the financial resource required to increase GP training places but also to other constraints such as the number of potential eligible applicants in the medical workforce and the time required to increase capacity in the necessary infrastructure required to provide GP training. All these issues are currently being taken into consideration as a matter of urgency
I would like to confirm that no GP Practices have closed in the Ards Peninsula. The SPPG have previously approved a merger between two practices in the area - Windmill Surgery and Cuan Family Practice - on 1st October 2020. The practice merger was approved in order to increase their resilience and help promote stability.
I recognise that being able to access GP services is very important for people across Northern Ireland. My Department has therefore convened a working group to explore issues around access to services, including how technology can be better used to provide improved access for patients. An initial report from the group is anticipated in the autumn.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204131%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383111"}},{"id":"383110","reference":"AQW 4130/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-05","answerBy":"2022-10-20","answered":"2022-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how many patients in the South Eastern Trust area live in a geographical area not covered by a GP surgery; and (ii) to provide a list of the geographical areas affected.","answerText":"All patients in the South Eastern Trust area live in a geographical area covered by a GP Surgery.","answerHtml":"All patients in the South Eastern Trust area live in a geographical area covered by a GP Surgery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204130%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383110","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383110"}},{"id":"383109","reference":"AQW 4129/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-05","answerBy":"2022-10-20","answered":"2022-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how many GP surgeries across the South Eastern Trust area have requested to reduce the area they are contracted to cover; and (ii) to provide (a) the name of the surgery; (b) the date the request was submitted; and (c) the response provided.","answerText":"The SPPG have received three applications from South Eastern area GP practices to reduce their practice boundary in 2022/2023.\n\nThe applications were received on 5/5/2022, 7/4/2022 and 17/5/2022. For confidential reasons the SPPG cannot provide the GP Practice details.\n\nThe three GP practices will be advised of the SPPG decision when applications for Belfast, Northern, Southern and Western area practices have been reviewed and agreed by SPPG. All applications are discussed with Local Medical Committee representatives","answerHtml":"The SPPG have received three applications from South Eastern area GP practices to reduce their practice boundary in 2022/2023.
The applications were received on 5/5/2022, 7/4/2022 and 17/5/2022. For confidential reasons the SPPG cannot provide the GP Practice details.
The three GP practices will be advised of the SPPG decision when applications for Belfast, Northern, Southern and Western area practices have been reviewed and agreed by SPPG. All applications are discussed with Local Medical Committee representatives
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204129%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383109","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383109"}},{"id":"383108","reference":"AQW 4128/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-05","answerBy":"2022-10-20","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how many GP surgeries across the South Eastern Trust area have requested to close patient lists in the last year; and (ii) to provide (a) the name of the surgery; (b) the date the request was submitted; and (c) the response provided.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204128%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383108","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383108"}},{"id":"382994","reference":"AQW 4070/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-04","answerBy":"2022-10-19","answered":"2022-10-12","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 what financial support is being planned to support private home owners in moving from home heating oil to a more environmentally sustainable alternative.","answerText":"My Department published the Northern Ireland Energy Strategy, The Path to Net Zero Energy, in December 2021. A key policy within this strategy is the phase-out of fossil fuel home heating oil, which will be necessary to achieve our vision of net zero emissions.\n\nOne pathway available to consumers of home heating oil to reduce emissions is to switch to a low carbon heating technology, for example a heat pump.\n\nThe Energy Strategy commits to a pilot support scheme to help domestic and small business consumers switch to these more environmentally sustainable, low carbon heat technologies. This pilot scheme, that will launch in 2023, is currently being developed by my Department. It is intended that this will be followed by a wider rollout of support in future years.\n\nFurther information on the pilot support scheme will be published at the earliest opportunity.","answerHtml":"My Department published the Northern Ireland Energy Strategy, The Path to Net Zero Energy, in December 2021. A key policy within this strategy is the phase-out of fossil fuel home heating oil, which will be necessary to achieve our vision of net zero emissions.
One pathway available to consumers of home heating oil to reduce emissions is to switch to a low carbon heating technology, for example a heat pump.
The Energy Strategy commits to a pilot support scheme to help domestic and small business consumers switch to these more environmentally sustainable, low carbon heat technologies. This pilot scheme, that will launch in 2023, is currently being developed by my Department. It is intended that this will be followed by a wider rollout of support in future years.
Further information on the pilot support scheme will be published at the earliest opportunity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204070%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382994"}},{"id":"382993","reference":"AQW 4069/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-04","answerBy":"2022-10-19","answered":"2022-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy why he has not included sustainable tidal energy production in his Energy Strategy.","answerText":"My department is working towards a target of 80% of electricity consumption coming from a diverse range of renewable generating technologies by 2030.\n\nThe Energy Strategy does not define which renewable electricity generating technologies will be used to achieve this target, allowing the most efficient solutions that provide locally produced, affordable, renewable energy for consumers to be brought forward.","answerHtml":"My department is working towards a target of 80% of electricity consumption coming from a diverse range of renewable generating technologies by 2030.
The Energy Strategy does not define which renewable electricity generating technologies will be used to achieve this target, allowing the most efficient solutions that provide locally produced, affordable, renewable energy for consumers to be brought forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204069%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382993"}},{"id":"382992","reference":"AQW 4068/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-04","answerBy":"2022-10-19","answered":"2022-10-12","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 actions he is taking with the Minister for Communities to ensure all social homes will be included in the future roll out of Smart Meters.","answerText":"The Energy Strategy – Path to Net Zero Energy - Action plan published in\n\nJanuary 2022 commits to delivering the following action this year:\n\nAction Plan 20: “Carry out a cost benefit analysis of electricity and gas smart\n\nmeters and other technologies in order to access half-hourly and daily\n\nconsumption information”. The assignment is due to be completed by the end of this year. I will review the recommendations thereafter.\n\nAny future implementation of smart metering systems in Northern Ireland will have due to regard to the needs of all energy consumers regardless of home tenure arrangements.","answerHtml":"The Energy Strategy – Path to Net Zero Energy - Action plan published in
January 2022 commits to delivering the following action this year:
Action Plan 20: “Carry out a cost benefit analysis of electricity and gas smart
meters and other technologies in order to access half-hourly and daily
consumption information”. The assignment is due to be completed by the end of this year. I will review the recommendations thereafter.
Any future implementation of smart metering systems in Northern Ireland will have due to regard to the needs of all energy consumers regardless of home tenure arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204068%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382992"}},{"id":"382991","reference":"AQW 4067/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-04","answerBy":"2022-10-19","answered":"2022-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what action is being taken with the Department for the Economy to develop efficient untethered roadside electric vehicle charging.","answerText":"My Department established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force, in December 2021, bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry and EV drivers to consider our EV Infrastructure requirements and to help set out a clear action plan by autumn 2022 to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network. In developing its Action Plan the Task-Force will consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. The Action Plan will be submitted to me shortly.\n\nThe EV Task-Force is led by my Department and the Department for the Economy is also represented on it along with other key stakeholders. At this stage, no specific action is being taken with the Department for the Economy to develop efficient untethered roadside electric vehicle charging.","answerHtml":"My Department established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force, in December 2021, bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry and EV drivers to consider our EV Infrastructure requirements and to help set out a clear action plan by autumn 2022 to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network. In developing its Action Plan the Task-Force will consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. The Action Plan will be submitted to me shortly.
The EV Task-Force is led by my Department and the Department for the Economy is also represented on it along with other key stakeholders. At this stage, no specific action is being taken with the Department for the Economy to develop efficient untethered roadside electric vehicle charging.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204067%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382991"}},{"id":"382988","reference":"AQW 4064/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-04","answerBy":"2022-10-19","answered":"2022-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how many times utility providers have been instructed by his Department to make good the road surface in the Strangford constituency, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Where reinstatements by utility providers do not meet the necessary standards, they are notified to the utilities as requiring remedial action during the guarantee period which in most cases is two years. Beyond that period responsibility reverts to my Department when the intervention criteria for repairs reflects the Department’s current Limited Service policy.\n\nMy Department does not collate or manage information on a constituency basis, rather information is managed on a Council or DfI Roads Section Office area basis. Therefore, details of the number of notifications to utility companies for sub-standard reinstatements carried out within the Ards and North Down area for each year from 2018 until 2022 to date are shown in the table below:\n\nYear\tNo. of failed Inspections\n2022 (to date)\t289\n2021\t498\n2020\t174\n2019\t518\n2018\t319\n\nShould you have any further questions on this matter, please contact DfI Roads Southern Division at: dfiroads.southern@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"Where reinstatements by utility providers do not meet the necessary standards, they are notified to the utilities as requiring remedial action during the guarantee period which in most cases is two years. Beyond that period responsibility reverts to my Department when the intervention criteria for repairs reflects the Department’s current Limited Service policy.
My Department does not collate or manage information on a constituency basis, rather information is managed on a Council or DfI Roads Section Office area basis. Therefore, details of the number of notifications to utility companies for sub-standard reinstatements carried out within the Ards and North Down area for each year from 2018 until 2022 to date are shown in the table below:
| Year | No. of failed Inspections |
| 2022 (to date) | 289 |
| 2021 | 498 |
| 2020 | 174 |
| 2019 | 518 |
| 2018 | 319 |
Should you have any further questions on this matter, please contact DfI Roads Southern Division at: dfiroads.southern@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204064%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382988","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382988"}},{"id":"382889","reference":"AQW 4023/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-03","answerBy":"2022-10-18","answered":"2022-10-11","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 plans his Department has to ensure all Northern Ireland Housing Executive and social housing tenants are included in the roll out of smart meters.","answerText":"The Energy Strategy – Path to Net Zero Energy - Action plan published in\n\nJanuary 2022 commits to delivering the following action this year:\n\nAction Plan 20: “Carry out a cost benefit analysis of electricity and gas smart\n\nmeters and other technologies in order to access half-hourly and daily\n\nconsumption information”. The assignment is due to be completed by the end of this year. I will review the recommendations thereafter.\n\nAny future implementation of smart metering systems in Northern Ireland will have due to regard to the needs of all energy consumers regardless of home tenure arrangements.","answerHtml":"The Energy Strategy – Path to Net Zero Energy - Action plan published in
January 2022 commits to delivering the following action this year:
Action Plan 20: “Carry out a cost benefit analysis of electricity and gas smart
meters and other technologies in order to access half-hourly and daily
consumption information”. The assignment is due to be completed by the end of this year. I will review the recommendations thereafter.
Any future implementation of smart metering systems in Northern Ireland will have due to regard to the needs of all energy consumers regardless of home tenure arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204023%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382889","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382889"}},{"id":"382888","reference":"AQW 4022/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-03","answerBy":"2022-10-18","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what actions her Department is taking, in conjunction with the Education Authority, to address issues experienced by disabled children on school transport.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) delivers home to school transport on behalf of the Department of Education to over 9,500 children who have additional transport requirements identified on their Statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN). Over 20% of these pupils were newly referred to the transport service this year as SEN transport referrals are received on an ongoing basis.\n\nWhen new transport referrals are received, further assessments are carried out for pupils who use wheelchairs or other physical aids, and for those who have specific medical requirements to ensure any aids are suitable for use on school transport vehicles and that the pupil’s needs can be safely accommodated.\n\nWhere a pupil cannot be accommodated on school transport a parental payment is offered to assist the parents transporting their children to school. Routes and services have to be adjusted and new taxi and private hire contracts are put in place. Confirmation of SEN transport arrangements, therefore, often takes place later in the summer.\n\nAround 5,200 pupils with a transport requirement identified on their Statement of SEN travel to school by bus. The EA has developed specialist vehicle specifications for SEN transport to ensure the comfort and safety of children and young people using the service.\n\nBus Escorts travel as standard on services to special schools and additional assistance is provided where needed for pupils to board and disembark the vehicle. One to one escorts are also put in place where a specific medical or behavioural need has been identified. All transport frontline staff must complete an Access NI check prior to working on home to school transport services and all EA bus drivers and escorts are expected to receive staff inductions and regular training relating to their role.\n\nOver 3,500 pupils with SEN transport needs travel to and from school each day in a taxi and the EA have faced challenges in providing taxi transport at the start of the school year which led to some instances where contracted routes were cancelled at short notice and some pupils did not receive transport assistance as they began the new academic year. The EA recognises the impact that this disruption has had on the learning and routine of pupils and the inconvenience it has caused to parents and it is continuing to work hard to ensure sufficient capacity is available on the school transport network, and to improve communication procedures with parents.\n\nThe EA is progressing several digital transport solutions that will help to improve safeguarding for pupils and the communication of information to parents relating to their child’s journey to school.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) delivers home to school transport on behalf of the Department of Education to over 9,500 children who have additional transport requirements identified on their Statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN). Over 20% of these pupils were newly referred to the transport service this year as SEN transport referrals are received on an ongoing basis.
When new transport referrals are received, further assessments are carried out for pupils who use wheelchairs or other physical aids, and for those who have specific medical requirements to ensure any aids are suitable for use on school transport vehicles and that the pupil’s needs can be safely accommodated.
Where a pupil cannot be accommodated on school transport a parental payment is offered to assist the parents transporting their children to school. Routes and services have to be adjusted and new taxi and private hire contracts are put in place. Confirmation of SEN transport arrangements, therefore, often takes place later in the summer.
Around 5,200 pupils with a transport requirement identified on their Statement of SEN travel to school by bus. The EA has developed specialist vehicle specifications for SEN transport to ensure the comfort and safety of children and young people using the service.
Bus Escorts travel as standard on services to special schools and additional assistance is provided where needed for pupils to board and disembark the vehicle. One to one escorts are also put in place where a specific medical or behavioural need has been identified. All transport frontline staff must complete an Access NI check prior to working on home to school transport services and all EA bus drivers and escorts are expected to receive staff inductions and regular training relating to their role.
Over 3,500 pupils with SEN transport needs travel to and from school each day in a taxi and the EA have faced challenges in providing taxi transport at the start of the school year which led to some instances where contracted routes were cancelled at short notice and some pupils did not receive transport assistance as they began the new academic year. The EA recognises the impact that this disruption has had on the learning and routine of pupils and the inconvenience it has caused to parents and it is continuing to work hard to ensure sufficient capacity is available on the school transport network, and to improve communication procedures with parents.
The EA is progressing several digital transport solutions that will help to improve safeguarding for pupils and the communication of information to parents relating to their child’s journey to school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204022%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382888","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382888"}},{"id":"382876","reference":"AQW 4010/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-03","answerBy":"2022-10-18","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what support (i) each management type of school; and (ii) youth services, will receive this winter to ensure they can afford to heat their buildings.","answerText":"I can assure you that I fully recognise the challenges that rising heating and electricity costs present for our schools and youth services, and my officials seek regular updates from the Education Authority (EA) in relation to this. The most recent update estimated an additional pressure of £13.3m relating to rises in natural gas, heating oil and electricity costs in the 2022-23 financial year. This was after factoring in the anticipated impact of the UK government’s recent announcement of an Energy Bill Relief Scheme for the period October 2022 to March 2023. These, and other pressures have been communicated to the Department of Finance in anticipation of an agreed budget for 2022-23 in due course.\n\nIn addition to this, since August 2020, the EA has proactively sought to mitigate the impact of increasing utility and energy costs by engaging an independent energy advisor to provide advice on purchasing energy, tariff changes and hedging purchase prices for electricity and gas on behalf of our schools.\n\nNotwithstanding all this, if any school or youth facility is facing financial difficultly, I would encourage them to contact the EA in the first instance.","answerHtml":"I can assure you that I fully recognise the challenges that rising heating and electricity costs present for our schools and youth services, and my officials seek regular updates from the Education Authority (EA) in relation to this. The most recent update estimated an additional pressure of £13.3m relating to rises in natural gas, heating oil and electricity costs in the 2022-23 financial year. This was after factoring in the anticipated impact of the UK government’s recent announcement of an Energy Bill Relief Scheme for the period October 2022 to March 2023. These, and other pressures have been communicated to the Department of Finance in anticipation of an agreed budget for 2022-23 in due course.
In addition to this, since August 2020, the EA has proactively sought to mitigate the impact of increasing utility and energy costs by engaging an independent energy advisor to provide advice on purchasing energy, tariff changes and hedging purchase prices for electricity and gas on behalf of our schools.
Notwithstanding all this, if any school or youth facility is facing financial difficultly, I would encourage them to contact the EA in the first instance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204010%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382876","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382876"}},{"id":"382875","reference":"AQW 4009/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-03","answerBy":"2022-10-18","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 3339/22-27, (i) what is the qualifying date for the second Low Income Cost of Living Payment; and (ii) when will the public be notified of this date.","answerText":"Details of the qualifying date for the second cost of living support payments are available at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/cost-living-support\n\nThese details were published on 3 October.","answerHtml":"Details of the qualifying date for the second cost of living support payments are available at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/cost-living-support
These details were published on 3 October.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204009%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382875","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382875"}},{"id":"382851","reference":"AQW 3985/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-03","answerBy":"2022-10-06","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, further to the announcement of a 35 million euro package to aid Irish sports clubs with energy costs this winter, what support is being made available by the Northern Ireland Executive and the UK Government to aid sports clubs in Northern Ireland with the rise in energy costs.","answerText":"The cost-of-living crisis is having major impact, particularly on those who are already struggling financially.\n\nI am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.\n\nMy Department will do all it can to support those experiencing hardship, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.\n\nDetails of current funding opportunities available from Sport NI can be found on its website Sport NI – Funding (www.sportni.net/funding/). Additionally, details of Government Grants paid to the Voluntary and Community Sector are accessible via the Government Funding Database (https://govfunding.nics.gov.uk).","answerHtml":"The cost-of-living crisis is having major impact, particularly on those who are already struggling financially.
I am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.
My Department will do all it can to support those experiencing hardship, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.
Details of current funding opportunities available from Sport NI can be found on its website Sport NI – Funding (www.sportni.net/funding/). Additionally, details of Government Grants paid to the Voluntary and Community Sector are accessible via the Government Funding Database (https://govfunding.nics.gov.uk).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203985%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382851","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382851"}},{"id":"381851","reference":"AQW 3910/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-30","answerBy":"2022-10-17","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions she is taking to ensure the Shared Prosperity Fund allocation for Northern Ireland will be flexible to meet the needs of Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Department of Finance leads on this matter through its EU Future Policy and Finance Workstream. Executive Departments have, however, taken a joined up approach to the issue and have made a number of representations to the British Government raising concerns about proposals for delivery of the Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF).\n\nOur main concern is that the proposed SPF allocation does not currently match equivalent EU funds and we are facing a shortfall in excess of £65m over the three year funding period. We also have concerns around proposals for local delivery of the Fund but will continue to engage with the British Government to try to resolve these issues and to ensure that there is no impediment to funding flowing to local organisations.","answerHtml":"The Department of Finance leads on this matter through its EU Future Policy and Finance Workstream. Executive Departments have, however, taken a joined up approach to the issue and have made a number of representations to the British Government raising concerns about proposals for delivery of the Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF).
Our main concern is that the proposed SPF allocation does not currently match equivalent EU funds and we are facing a shortfall in excess of £65m over the three year funding period. We also have concerns around proposals for local delivery of the Fund but will continue to engage with the British Government to try to resolve these issues and to ensure that there is no impediment to funding flowing to local organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203910%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381851","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381851"}},{"id":"381850","reference":"AQW 3909/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-30","answerBy":"2022-10-17","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will provide redundancy support for all Community and Voluntary Sector organisations that have been supported to deliver services for her Department through the European Social Fund.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for providing a tailored redundancy support and advice service to employers and people being made redundant, including information about benefits and support to find jobs. This includes Community and Voluntary Sector organisations.\n\nThe Department’s Redundancy Service offers both virtual and face to face support to best meet the needs of both the employer and employees. A Redundancy Clinic Webcast has been developed, along with Redundancy Factsheets which help signpost employers and employees to useful information and sources of on-line support.\n\nThe Department’s Work Psychology Services (WPS) has also developed a Redundancy Support booklet to help people cope with the psychological and emotional impacts of redundancy. On-site Redundancy Clinics can also be arranged. Details of the Redundancy Service can be found at www.communities-ni.gov.uk/topics/finding-staff/redundancy-service\n\nMy Department also manages the JobApplyNI website. This is a recruitment and advertising platform which lists current job vacancies. The site is available for jobseekers 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Registering with JobApplyNI www.jobapplyni.com allows jobseekers to apply for vacancies directly to employers. Further support is available throughout the Department’s 35 Jobs and Benefits office network.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for providing a tailored redundancy support and advice service to employers and people being made redundant, including information about benefits and support to find jobs. This includes Community and Voluntary Sector organisations.
The Department’s Redundancy Service offers both virtual and face to face support to best meet the needs of both the employer and employees. A Redundancy Clinic Webcast has been developed, along with Redundancy Factsheets which help signpost employers and employees to useful information and sources of on-line support.
The Department’s Work Psychology Services (WPS) has also developed a Redundancy Support booklet to help people cope with the psychological and emotional impacts of redundancy. On-site Redundancy Clinics can also be arranged. Details of the Redundancy Service can be found at www.communities-ni.gov.uk/topics/finding-staff/redundancy-service
My Department also manages the JobApplyNI website. This is a recruitment and advertising platform which lists current job vacancies. The site is available for jobseekers 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Registering with JobApplyNI www.jobapplyni.com allows jobseekers to apply for vacancies directly to employers. Further support is available throughout the Department’s 35 Jobs and Benefits office network.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203909%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381850","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381850"}},{"id":"381849","reference":"AQW 3908/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-30","answerBy":"2022-10-17","answered":"2024-09-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the living wage will be extended to all organisations that are in receipt of a grant through her Department, including where her Department's monies are distributed by another party, for example Local Government.","answerText":"I refer the Member to my response to AQW 9382/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to my response to AQW 9382/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203908%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381849","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381849"}},{"id":"381848","reference":"AQW 3907/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-30","answerBy":"2022-10-17","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to outline the (a) process; and (b) frequency, for reviewing the Funeral Expenses Payment; and (ii) when was the last time the payment was increased.","answerText":"(i) The Social Fund Funeral Expenses Payments scheme makes a contribution towards a funeral. It meets the reasonable necessary costs of a cremation or burial including the purchase of a grave with exclusive burial.\n\n(a) While there is no formal planned review of the scheme, my Department monitors the existing policy/ legislation. (b) There is no specific frequency for this work.\n\n(ii) In relation to any increase of the payment the amount allowed for other funeral expenses had been capped at £700, however in April 2020, my Department increased this cap from £700 to £1000. Any further increases would break parity with the Department for Work and Pensions and require Executive approval.","answerHtml":"(i) The Social Fund Funeral Expenses Payments scheme makes a contribution towards a funeral. It meets the reasonable necessary costs of a cremation or burial including the purchase of a grave with exclusive burial.
(a) While there is no formal planned review of the scheme, my Department monitors the existing policy/ legislation. (b) There is no specific frequency for this work.
(ii) In relation to any increase of the payment the amount allowed for other funeral expenses had been capped at £700, however in April 2020, my Department increased this cap from £700 to £1000. Any further increases would break parity with the Department for Work and Pensions and require Executive approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203907%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381848","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381848"}},{"id":"381847","reference":"AQW 3906/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-30","answerBy":"2022-10-17","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many occupational therapists are currently employed as assessors of Personal Independence Payments.","answerText":"Capita Business Services Limited employ 14 occupational therapists for the delivery of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessments here.","answerHtml":"Capita Business Services Limited employ 14 occupational therapists for the delivery of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessments here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203906%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381847","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381847"}},{"id":"381462","reference":"AQW 3635/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-27","answerBy":"2022-10-12","answered":"2022-10-06","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 with disabilities and whose hours of work have dropped below 10 hours, have had to leave the Workable programme to date; and (ii) when this happens, what employment support programme is provided for people with disabilities working less than 10 hours.","answerText":"Since 2016 to date 18 people with disabilities whose hours of work have dropped below 10 hours per week, have had to leave the Workable programme.\n\nThe Condition Management Programme is available to people who are struggling to remain in work due to their health condition or disability. The Condition Management Programme is a work-focused rehabilitation programme delivered on behalf of my Department by five Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerHtml":"Since 2016 to date 18 people with disabilities whose hours of work have dropped below 10 hours per week, have had to leave the Workable programme.
The Condition Management Programme is available to people who are struggling to remain in work due to their health condition or disability. The Condition Management Programme is a work-focused rehabilitation programme delivered on behalf of my Department by five Health and Social Care Trusts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203635%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381462","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381462"}},{"id":"381461","reference":"AQW 3634/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-27","answerBy":"2022-10-12","answered":"2022-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) why the Workable programme is currently capped for people with disabilities; (ii) how many people have completed the Workable programme and secured a permanent job; and (iii) how many have dropped out in each of the last 10 years.","answerText":"The Workable programme is not capped for people with disabilities. The 3 organisations that deliver the programme on behalf of my Department do so ensuring they remain within their respective annual funding allocation.\n\nCurrently 703 people with disabilities are being supported by the programme.\n\nThe Workable database contains data for the last 7 years therefore the Department cannot provide information for the last 10 years.\n\n745 people left the Workable programme in the last 7 years.","answerHtml":"The Workable programme is not capped for people with disabilities. The 3 organisations that deliver the programme on behalf of my Department do so ensuring they remain within their respective annual funding allocation.
Currently 703 people with disabilities are being supported by the programme.
The Workable database contains data for the last 7 years therefore the Department cannot provide information for the last 10 years.
745 people left the Workable programme in the last 7 years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203634%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381461","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381461"}},{"id":"381460","reference":"AQW 3633/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-27","answerBy":"2022-10-12","answered":"2022-10-06","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 with disabilities have been through JobStart scheme since the scheme began; and (ii) of that number, how many have secured a permanent job.","answerText":"At 30 September 2022, 1,697 young people had started a JobStart opportunity of which 527 (31%) have a disability. I am delighted to advise you that, of the 206 young people with a disability who have completed their JobStart opportunity, 159 (77%) have sustained employment and secured a permanent job.","answerHtml":"At 30 September 2022, 1,697 young people had started a JobStart opportunity of which 527 (31%) have a disability. I am delighted to advise you that, of the 206 young people with a disability who have completed their JobStart opportunity, 159 (77%) have sustained employment and secured a permanent job.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203633%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381460","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381460"}},{"id":"381345","reference":"AQW 3550/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-26","answerBy":"2022-10-11","answered":"2022-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many people in Northern Ireland were excluded from a Cost of Living Support Payment due to sanctions or other reasons, broken down by council area.","answerText":"As these payments were administered by the Department for Work and Pensions and Revenue and Customs, my Department does not hold the information required to respond to this question","answerHtml":"As these payments were administered by the Department for Work and Pensions and Revenue and Customs, my Department does not hold the information required to respond to this question
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203550%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381345","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381345"}},{"id":"381344","reference":"AQW 3549/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-26","answerBy":"2022-10-11","answered":"2022-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) when his Department knew the Strangford ferry service would not be operational after 7:45pm on 24 September 2022; and (ii) when the first public notice was issued confirming withdrawal of the ferry service.","answerText":"Officials became aware of a potential issue with the Saturday evening sailings at approximately 12:30pm on Friday 23 September 2022. My Private Office was advised at 3:41pm on Friday 23 September 2022 that it had been concluded that suspension was unavoidable.\n\nThe first public notice was issued at 4.58pm on Friday 23 September 2022 on the DfI Facebook and Twitter accounts. A few minutes later a SMS was issued to over 4000 Ferry SMS alert subscribers.","answerHtml":"Officials became aware of a potential issue with the Saturday evening sailings at approximately 12:30pm on Friday 23 September 2022. My Private Office was advised at 3:41pm on Friday 23 September 2022 that it had been concluded that suspension was unavoidable.
The first public notice was issued at 4.58pm on Friday 23 September 2022 on the DfI Facebook and Twitter accounts. A few minutes later a SMS was issued to over 4000 Ferry SMS alert subscribers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203549%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381344","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381344"}},{"id":"381343","reference":"AQW 3548/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-26","answerBy":"2022-10-11","answered":"2022-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what contingency plans are in place to ensure the Strangford ferry service can continue to operate in the case of staff shortages.","answerText":"A minimum of four qualified crew members, including two that are licenced by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to pilot the vessel, must be on board for the ferry to legally sail. The Strangford Ferry Service operates using three crews and contingency has been built in as each crew has six members.\n\nThis level of staffing is usually sufficient to keep the service running however when a member of staff is unavailable for a shift, other staff can be brought in on voluntary overtime or may be asked to change shifts. In addition there are other staff who have been trained to provide cover, and agency staff can be recruited, provided they have the relevant qualifications.\n\nPart of our contingency arrangements is also to keep the travelling public informed as soon as possible so they can make alternative arrangements if the ferry service is to be suspended.","answerHtml":"A minimum of four qualified crew members, including two that are licenced by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to pilot the vessel, must be on board for the ferry to legally sail. The Strangford Ferry Service operates using three crews and contingency has been built in as each crew has six members.
This level of staffing is usually sufficient to keep the service running however when a member of staff is unavailable for a shift, other staff can be brought in on voluntary overtime or may be asked to change shifts. In addition there are other staff who have been trained to provide cover, and agency staff can be recruited, provided they have the relevant qualifications.
Part of our contingency arrangements is also to keep the travelling public informed as soon as possible so they can make alternative arrangements if the ferry service is to be suspended.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203548%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381343","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381343"}},{"id":"381342","reference":"AQW 3547/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-26","answerBy":"2022-10-11","answered":"2022-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) how many staff are employed to provide the Strangford ferry service, broken down by role; and (ii) when the last recruitment was held for staff for the Strangford ferry service.","answerText":"There are currently 28.8 staff employed in the direct provision of the Strangford Ferry service as set out in the table below.\n\nRole\tNumber of staff currently in post\nSenior Engineer (Manager)\t1\nFerry Manager\t1\nHarbour Master\t1\nMarine Maintenance Supervisor\t1\nShift Manager (Senior Skipper)\t3\nSkipper\t3\nSenior Purser\t4\nPurser\t8 (2 from an Agency)\nMarine Fitter\t1\nFerry Admin Manager\t1\nAdmin Support\t1.8\nNight Watch\t3 (1 from an Agency)\nTOTAL\t28.8\n\nIn addition to those listed above there are 3 Duty Ferry Managers who provide cover outside of normal office hours. These posts are filled by staff from other sections within DfI.\n\nThe last external recruitment competitions were advertised on 17 August 2020 for Skipper and Senior Purser. A senior Engineer was seconded to the service in February 2022. Agency staff have more recently been employed in late April 2022.","answerHtml":"There are currently 28.8 staff employed in the direct provision of the Strangford Ferry service as set out in the table below.
| Role | Number of staff currently in post |
| Senior Engineer (Manager) | 1 |
| Ferry Manager | 1 |
| Harbour Master | 1 |
| Marine Maintenance Supervisor | 1 |
| Shift Manager (Senior Skipper) | 3 |
| Skipper | 3 |
| Senior Purser | 4 |
| Purser | 8 (2 from an Agency) |
| Marine Fitter | 1 |
| Ferry Admin Manager | 1 |
| Admin Support | 1.8 |
| Night Watch | 3 (1 from an Agency) |
| TOTAL | 28.8 |
In addition to those listed above there are 3 Duty Ferry Managers who provide cover outside of normal office hours. These posts are filled by staff from other sections within DfI.
The last external recruitment competitions were advertised on 17 August 2020 for Skipper and Senior Purser. A senior Engineer was seconded to the service in February 2022. Agency staff have more recently been employed in late April 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203547%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381342","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381342"}},{"id":"381341","reference":"AQW 3546/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-26","answerBy":"2022-10-11","answered":"2022-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline the matters outside his Department's control that prevented the Strangford ferry service from operating after 7.45pm on 24 September 2022.","answerText":"The Strangford Ferry was withdrawn from service at 7.45pm on 24 September 2022 due to crew unavailability.","answerHtml":"The Strangford Ferry was withdrawn from service at 7.45pm on 24 September 2022 due to crew unavailability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203546%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381341","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381341"}},{"id":"381178","reference":"AQW 3442/22-27","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 when was the Support for Mortgage Interest rate last reviewed.","answerText":"The Support for Mortgage Interest rate is reviewed on a monthly basis as the standard interest rate is set at a level equal to the Bank of England's published monthly average mortgage interest rate.","answerHtml":"The Support for Mortgage Interest rate is reviewed on a monthly basis as the standard interest rate is set at a level equal to the Bank of England's published monthly average mortgage interest rate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203442%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381178","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381178"}},{"id":"381177","reference":"AQW 3441/22-27","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 will the Support for Mortgage Interest rate be reviewed as a result of the increase in interest rates.","answerText":"Please refer to AQW 3442/22-27.","answerHtml":"Please refer to AQW 3442/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203441%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381177","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381177"}},{"id":"381176","reference":"AQW 3440/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-22","answerBy":"2022-10-07","answered":"2022-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what responsibility the Northern Ireland Housing Executive has to maintain its stock, given the Householder's Guide booklet appears to require tenants to sustain maintenance.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has advised that the “Maintaining your home - a householder's guide” document has advice for the housing sector generally on what householders can do to manage and maintain their home and keep repairs to a minimum.\n\nThe nature and extent of the responsibility of the Housing Executive to maintain its stock - in respect of tenanted properties - is to be found in its standard tenancy agreement which can be found at https://www.nihe.gov.uk/Documents/Customer-charter/conditions-of-tenancy\n\nThe Housing Executive’s contractual responsibilities or obligations as a landlord are set out in Part II of that agreement, while Schedule 4 provides more details on the responsibilities of both the Housing Executive and the tenant.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has advised that the “Maintaining your home - a householder's guide” document has advice for the housing sector generally on what householders can do to manage and maintain their home and keep repairs to a minimum.
The nature and extent of the responsibility of the Housing Executive to maintain its stock - in respect of tenanted properties - is to be found in its standard tenancy agreement which can be found at https://www.nihe.gov.uk/Documents/Customer-charter/conditions-of-tenancy
The Housing Executive’s contractual responsibilities or obligations as a landlord are set out in Part II of that agreement, while Schedule 4 provides more details on the responsibilities of both the Housing Executive and the tenant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203440%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381176","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381176"}},{"id":"381175","reference":"AQW 3439/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-22","answerBy":"2022-10-07","answered":"2022-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she has plans to review Northern Ireland Housing Executive maintenance costs to ensure there is effective and efficient use of public money and in line with market values.","answerText":"The Housing Executive is a Centre of Procurement Expertise (CoPE) and continues to work closely with its contractors across a range of disciplines to ensure that contract pricing fairly reflects current inflationary pressures being experienced by contractors, whilst also safeguarding the use of public funds.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive is a Centre of Procurement Expertise (CoPE) and continues to work closely with its contractors across a range of disciplines to ensure that contract pricing fairly reflects current inflationary pressures being experienced by contractors, whilst also safeguarding the use of public funds.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203439%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381175","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381175"}},{"id":"381009","reference":"AQW 3343/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-21","answerBy":"2022-10-06","answered":"2024-09-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will bring forward regulations to enable the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to buy back maisonettes and flats.","answerText":"The Department of Finance has given the Housing Executive approval to offer a buy back option to leaseholders with vacant possession where they are part of a mixed tenure complex and the cost of the works is over £10k.","answerHtml":"The Department of Finance has given the Housing Executive approval to offer a buy back option to leaseholders with vacant possession where they are part of a mixed tenure complex and the cost of the works is over £10k.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203343%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381009","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381009"}},{"id":"381008","reference":"AQW 3342/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-21","answerBy":"2022-10-06","answered":"2022-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for a breakdown of the number of former Northern Ireland Housing Executive maisonettes or flats, now in private ownership, that are currently required under contract to pay the Northern Ireland Housing Executive for maintenance.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has advised me that the total number of flats/maisonettes that it formerly owned but are now in private ownership are 6,138. Of these 5,666 are flats and 472 are maisonettes.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has advised me that the total number of flats/maisonettes that it formerly owned but are now in private ownership are 6,138. Of these 5,666 are flats and 472 are maisonettes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203342%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381008","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381008"}},{"id":"381007","reference":"AQW 3341/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-21","answerBy":"2022-10-06","answered":"2022-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she has plans to make an automatic payment of £500 from the Discretionary Support fund, for the remainder of this financial year, to new claimants of Universal Credit during their initial five week assessment and until the move to the Universal Credit is completed.","answerText":"The introduction of a guaranteed automatic payment to new claimants of Universal Credit would require amendments to current legislation. Amending primary legislation is not possible due to the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget.","answerHtml":"The introduction of a guaranteed automatic payment to new claimants of Universal Credit would require amendments to current legislation. Amending primary legislation is not possible due to the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203341%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381007","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381007"}},{"id":"381006","reference":"AQW 3340/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-21","answerBy":"2022-10-06","answered":"2024-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether her Department has any plans to review and put on hold all debt recovery from people on benefits, including Pension Credit and Personal Independence Payment in Northern Ireland, from 1 October 2022 to 30 September 2023.","answerText":"Any pause in debt recovery would require a break in parity from the Department for Work and Pensions and the cost of any divergence would require Executive agreement.\n\nThe Department for Communities recognises the financial hardship that many people are experiencing due to the cost of living and is fully committed to supporting and helping individuals who may be finding difficulty with the repayment of social security benefit debt. Individuals should contact the Department’s Debt Management team, who will work with them to agree an affordable repayment plan. Contact details for Debt Management can be found on https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/contacts/debt-management-northern-ireland","answerHtml":"Any pause in debt recovery would require a break in parity from the Department for Work and Pensions and the cost of any divergence would require Executive agreement.
The Department for Communities recognises the financial hardship that many people are experiencing due to the cost of living and is fully committed to supporting and helping individuals who may be finding difficulty with the repayment of social security benefit debt. Individuals should contact the Department’s Debt Management team, who will work with them to agree an affordable repayment plan. Contact details for Debt Management can be found on https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/contacts/debt-management-northern-ireland
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203340%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381006","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381006"}},{"id":"381005","reference":"AQW 3339/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-21","answerBy":"2022-10-06","answered":"2022-09-29","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 when, during this Autumn, the next Energy Support payment will be issued to people on relevant benefits.","answerText":"The second Low Income Cost of Living Payment qualifying date will be no later than 31 October 2022.\n\nThe link below for NI Direct will be updated with the dates for the second Low Income Cost of Living Payments when they are announced.\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/cost-living-support","answerHtml":"The second Low Income Cost of Living Payment qualifying date will be no later than 31 October 2022.
The link below for NI Direct will be updated with the dates for the second Low Income Cost of Living Payments when they are announced.
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/cost-living-support
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203339%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381005","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381005"}},{"id":"380509","reference":"AQW 3103/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-08","answerBy":"2022-09-26","answered":"2022-09-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether his Department will fix the flood alleviation measures taken along the Strangford Lough coastline behind the Saltwater Brig public house and surrounding properties.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for the inspection and maintenance of approximately 26 kilometres of sea defences in the North. However, these sea defences do not include the measures taken along the Strangford Lough coastline behind the Saltwater Brig public house and surrounding properties.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for the inspection and maintenance of approximately 26 kilometres of sea defences in the North. However, these sea defences do not include the measures taken along the Strangford Lough coastline behind the Saltwater Brig public house and surrounding properties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203103%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380509","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380509"}},{"id":"380508","reference":"AQW 3102/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-08","answerBy":"2022-09-26","answered":"2022-09-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether his Department has plans to add the Saltwater Brig area of the Strangford Lough Coastline to the Rivers Agency hydrometric section, to ensure monitoring of the water levels given the increasing flooding in the area.","answerText":"My Department currently monitors the water levels at the northern and southern ends of Strangford Lough by stations located at Portaferry Road, Newtownards and at the Quoile Barrier, Downpatrick.\n\nThe station at Portaferry Road Newtownards notifies my officials when predetermined thresholds are breached allowing time to prepare for any flood response as appropriate. My Department also receives daily information from the Met Office on coastal surges and high tides and this information is disseminated to relevant agencies to allow an appropriate flood response. There are no plans to add further monitoring stations at any other locations around Strangford Lough.","answerHtml":"My Department currently monitors the water levels at the northern and southern ends of Strangford Lough by stations located at Portaferry Road, Newtownards and at the Quoile Barrier, Downpatrick.
The station at Portaferry Road Newtownards notifies my officials when predetermined thresholds are breached allowing time to prepare for any flood response as appropriate. My Department also receives daily information from the Met Office on coastal surges and high tides and this information is disseminated to relevant agencies to allow an appropriate flood response. There are no plans to add further monitoring stations at any other locations around Strangford Lough.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203102%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380508","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380508"}},{"id":"380507","reference":"AQW 3101/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-08","answerBy":"2022-09-26","answered":"2022-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions she is taking to provide support for sporting organisations to be able to afford increasing electricity and heating costs in 2022/2023.","answerText":"The cost-of-living crisis is having major impact, particularly on those who are already struggling financially.\n\nI am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.\n\nMy Department will do all it can to support those experiencing hardship, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.","answerHtml":"The cost-of-living crisis is having major impact, particularly on those who are already struggling financially.
I am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.
My Department will do all it can to support those experiencing hardship, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203101%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380507","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380507"}},{"id":"380506","reference":"AQW 3100/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-08","answerBy":"2022-09-26","answered":"2022-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions she is taking to provide support for (i) artists; (ii) arts organisations; and (iii) community arts facilities to help them to be able to afford increasing electricity and heating costs in 2022/2023.","answerText":"The cost-of-living crisis is having major impact, particularly on those who are already struggling financially.\n\nI am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.\n\nMy Department will do all it can to support those experiencing hardship, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.","answerHtml":"The cost-of-living crisis is having major impact, particularly on those who are already struggling financially.
I am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.
My Department will do all it can to support those experiencing hardship, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203100%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380506","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380506"}},{"id":"380505","reference":"AQW 3099/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-08","answerBy":"2022-09-26","answered":"2022-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions she is taking to provide support for (i) museums; and (ii) heritage sites to help them to afford increasing electricity and heating costs in 2022/2023.","answerText":"The cost-of-living crisis is having major impact across our community.\n\nI am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.\n\nMy Department will do all it can to support, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.","answerHtml":"The cost-of-living crisis is having major impact across our community.
I am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.
My Department will do all it can to support, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203099%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380505","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380505"}},{"id":"380415","reference":"AQW 3016/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-07","answerBy":"2022-09-23","answered":"2022-09-15","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 provide a copy of the maintenance schedule for the drain located on the Strangford Lough coastal wall behind the Saltwater Brig public house and surrounding properties.","answerText":"The Cookstown Drain located on the Strangford Lough coastal wall behind the Saltwater Brig public house is maintained on a four year cycle. The last inspection on 25 November 2020 highlighted the need for maintenance work. The works were programmed to be carried out during the 2021/22 financial year. However, at that time, the landowners did not allow access for the works to be carried out. My officials will contact the landowners again with a view to including the previously identified works in this year's works programme.","answerHtml":"The Cookstown Drain located on the Strangford Lough coastal wall behind the Saltwater Brig public house is maintained on a four year cycle. The last inspection on 25 November 2020 highlighted the need for maintenance work. The works were programmed to be carried out during the 2021/22 financial year. However, at that time, the landowners did not allow access for the works to be carried out. My officials will contact the landowners again with a view to including the previously identified works in this year's works programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203016%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380415","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380415"}},{"id":"380404","reference":"AQW 3005/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-07","answerBy":"2022-09-23","answered":"2022-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether his Department could request the Drainage Council to consider a flood defence scheme at the Strangford Lough coastline of the Ards Peninsula, to protect the homes and businesses of the upper Ards Peninsula from being cut off from essential services.","answerText":"My Department has developed the 2nd Cycle Flood Risk Management Plan (FRMP) 2021 -2027 which has highlighted the most significant areas of risk in the North from rivers, the sea and surface water. The Ards Peninsula has not been identified, through that work, as an area of potentially significant flood risk and there are presently no plans to carry out any additional works in this area.\n\nHowever, my officials have worked with partner organisations to develop a coastal flooding emergency response plan to detail the arrangements for a co-ordinated multi-agency emergency response to anywhere coastal flooding may occur here.","answerHtml":"My Department has developed the 2nd Cycle Flood Risk Management Plan (FRMP) 2021 -2027 which has highlighted the most significant areas of risk in the North from rivers, the sea and surface water. The Ards Peninsula has not been identified, through that work, as an area of potentially significant flood risk and there are presently no plans to carry out any additional works in this area.
However, my officials have worked with partner organisations to develop a coastal flooding emergency response plan to detail the arrangements for a co-ordinated multi-agency emergency response to anywhere coastal flooding may occur here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203005%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380404","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380404"}},{"id":"380403","reference":"AQW 3004/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-07","answerBy":"2022-09-23","answered":"2022-09-14","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 what actions his Department is taking to ensure home and business insurance is available for coastal communities where sea or Lough flooding is becoming a more common occurrence.","answerText":"My officials have worked closely with the Association of British Insurers (ABI) in relation to insurance and flood risk issues. The UK Government and members of the ABI operate Flood Re, which is a joint initiative established in 2014 and is effectively a not-for-profit flood insurance scheme. Its aim is to make the flood cover element of household insurance policies more affordable, particularly to householders whose homes are in areas at high risk of flooding. Flood Re has reported that 3,047 households in the North benefitted from the scheme in 2020.\n\nThe Flood Re scheme does not include businesses, which require commercial insurance which is often bespoke and based on the individual nature of the business.","answerHtml":"My officials have worked closely with the Association of British Insurers (ABI) in relation to insurance and flood risk issues. The UK Government and members of the ABI operate Flood Re, which is a joint initiative established in 2014 and is effectively a not-for-profit flood insurance scheme. Its aim is to make the flood cover element of household insurance policies more affordable, particularly to householders whose homes are in areas at high risk of flooding. Flood Re has reported that 3,047 households in the North benefitted from the scheme in 2020.
The Flood Re scheme does not include businesses, which require commercial insurance which is often bespoke and based on the individual nature of the business.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203004%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380403","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380403"}},{"id":"380402","reference":"AQW 3003/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-07","answerBy":"2022-09-23","answered":"2022-09-26","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 (i) how often is the map which his Department produce to evidence the asset value along the Strangford Constituency coastline, including around Strangford Lough, is updated; and (ii) where this map can be accessed by the public.","answerText":"My Department does not hold a map detailing the asset value along the Strangford Lough coastline.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold a map detailing the asset value along the Strangford Lough coastline.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203003%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380402","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380402"}},{"id":"380298","reference":"AQW 2908/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-06","answerBy":"2022-09-22","answered":"2022-09-21","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 investment has been made to the Centre for Advanced Sustainable Energy to ensure NI has trade representation at the Ocean Energy Europe event.","answerText":"In 2019 the Centre for Advanced Sustainable Energy (CASE) received a further offer of support totalling up to £3.6 million through the Invest NI Competence Centre Programme, to cover the period up to 2024. In March 2022 CASE was selected to manage a £4.5 million Green Innovation Challenge Fund pilot on behalf of the Department for the Economy. Budget is available through these funds to attend relevant events as deemed appropriate by CASE.","answerHtml":"In 2019 the Centre for Advanced Sustainable Energy (CASE) received a further offer of support totalling up to £3.6 million through the Invest NI Competence Centre Programme, to cover the period up to 2024. In March 2022 CASE was selected to manage a £4.5 million Green Innovation Challenge Fund pilot on behalf of the Department for the Economy. Budget is available through these funds to attend relevant events as deemed appropriate by CASE.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202908%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380298","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380298"}},{"id":"380296","reference":"AQW 2906/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-06","answerBy":"2022-09-22","answered":"2022-09-26","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 what actions he is taking alone, or in partnership with other Departments, to map potential offshore wind turbine sites for companies to bid for.","answerText":"My Department maintains the DAERA Marine Mapviewer which brings together a range of marine related spatial datasets to support marine related decision making.\n\nAs set out in the Energy Strategy Action Plan 2022, the Department for Economy (DfE) is bringing forward an action plan to deliver 1GW of offshore wind from 2030 in Northern Ireland (NI) waters. DfE is leading an Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan (OREAP) Steering Group and working with key partners (DfE, DAERA, Department for Infrastructure, The Crown Estate, Utility Regulator, the electricity networks, and RenewableNI) to address the barriers and accelerate offshore wind deployment in NI to happen by 2030 if practicably possible. This involves the commissioning and direction of an update to the Strategic Environmental Assessment and Habitats Regulations Appraisal for the NI marine area that was completed in 2012 by consultant firms AECOM and Metoc. As part\n\nof this update work, key resource areas for offshore wind development will be identified.\n\nIn parallel with the work of the OREAP Steering Group, an Offshore Renewable Energy Forum (OREF) has been established. The OREF will engage with wider stakeholder groups such as environmental organisations, local communities and industries that will be impacted by offshore wind development in NI to gain their input and engagement with the development of the OREAP. Therefore, alongside the environmental and habitats impact assessments, thorough stakeholder engagement is taking place to ensure that offshore wind projects are sited in the best places for Northern Ireland’s communities and businesses, and the environment.","answerHtml":"My Department maintains the DAERA Marine Mapviewer which brings together a range of marine related spatial datasets to support marine related decision making.
As set out in the Energy Strategy Action Plan 2022, the Department for Economy (DfE) is bringing forward an action plan to deliver 1GW of offshore wind from 2030 in Northern Ireland (NI) waters. DfE is leading an Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan (OREAP) Steering Group and working with key partners (DfE, DAERA, Department for Infrastructure, The Crown Estate, Utility Regulator, the electricity networks, and RenewableNI) to address the barriers and accelerate offshore wind deployment in NI to happen by 2030 if practicably possible. This involves the commissioning and direction of an update to the Strategic Environmental Assessment and Habitats Regulations Appraisal for the NI marine area that was completed in 2012 by consultant firms AECOM and Metoc. As part
of this update work, key resource areas for offshore wind development will be identified.
In parallel with the work of the OREAP Steering Group, an Offshore Renewable Energy Forum (OREF) has been established. The OREF will engage with wider stakeholder groups such as environmental organisations, local communities and industries that will be impacted by offshore wind development in NI to gain their input and engagement with the development of the OREAP. Therefore, alongside the environmental and habitats impact assessments, thorough stakeholder engagement is taking place to ensure that offshore wind projects are sited in the best places for Northern Ireland’s communities and businesses, and the environment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202906%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380296","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380296"}},{"id":"380295","reference":"AQW 2905/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-06","answerBy":"2022-09-22","answered":"2022-09-21","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 the development of an Off Shore Energy Strategy.","answerText":"My Department is leading an Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan (OREAP) Steering Group. We are working with key partners to address the barriers and accelerate offshore wind deployment in Northern Ireland to happen by 2030 if practicably possible.\n\nAs the Energy Strategy Action Plan 2022 sets out, the OREAP will deliver 1GW of offshore wind from 2030.\n\nWe will publish the roadmap to Offshore Renewable Energy deployment for Northern Ireland this year, and a more detailed Action Plan in 2023.","answerHtml":"My Department is leading an Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan (OREAP) Steering Group. We are working with key partners to address the barriers and accelerate offshore wind deployment in Northern Ireland to happen by 2030 if practicably possible.
As the Energy Strategy Action Plan 2022 sets out, the OREAP will deliver 1GW of offshore wind from 2030.
We will publish the roadmap to Offshore Renewable Energy deployment for Northern Ireland this year, and a more detailed Action Plan in 2023.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202905%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380295","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380295"}},{"id":"380294","reference":"AQW 2904/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-06","answerBy":"2022-09-22","answered":"2022-09-20","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 actions his Department is taking to ensure bids to the Contracts for Difference are submitted in time for NI to claim part of the available £20 million per year.","answerText":"The CfD scheme is a GB scheme and does not extend to Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The CfD scheme is a GB scheme and does not extend to Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202904%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380294","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380294"}},{"id":"380211","reference":"AQW 2823/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-05","answerBy":"2022-09-21","answered":"2022-09-20","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 actions are being taken by his Department to bring home heating oil within the scope of the Utility Regulator.","answerText":"Given the recognised competitive market in home heating oil in Northern Ireland, there is currently no consideration being given to regulating the sector.\n\nIf we were to take such intervention, it would require primary legislation to establish the regulatory framework. The Competition and Markets Authority has jurisdiction to investigate and take action to address anti-competitive practices in this market. In terms of consumer protection against unfair trading practices, my Department’s Trading Standards Services (TSS) has the power to investigate complaints of this nature, and can take enforcement action where consumer protection regulations have been breached, including around the sale and delivery of home heating oil.\n\nIt is also worth noting that price controls will do nothing to tackle the underlying causes of oil price rises as the price regulator would have to allow the pass-through of legitimate input costs, most notably the crude oil price. Additionally, the costs of regulation, including administrative and other indirect costs, could add further upward pressure on consumer’s bills.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Energy Strategy, “The Path to Net Zero Energy”, sets out a pathway to decarbonising our society and gradually phasing out fossil fuels. This will ensure we reach our net zero targets and protect consumers by decoupling our sources of heating from the global fossil fuel markets, which are subject to price shocks.","answerHtml":"Given the recognised competitive market in home heating oil in Northern Ireland, there is currently no consideration being given to regulating the sector.
If we were to take such intervention, it would require primary legislation to establish the regulatory framework. The Competition and Markets Authority has jurisdiction to investigate and take action to address anti-competitive practices in this market. In terms of consumer protection against unfair trading practices, my Department’s Trading Standards Services (TSS) has the power to investigate complaints of this nature, and can take enforcement action where consumer protection regulations have been breached, including around the sale and delivery of home heating oil.
It is also worth noting that price controls will do nothing to tackle the underlying causes of oil price rises as the price regulator would have to allow the pass-through of legitimate input costs, most notably the crude oil price. Additionally, the costs of regulation, including administrative and other indirect costs, could add further upward pressure on consumer’s bills.
The Northern Ireland Energy Strategy, “The Path to Net Zero Energy”, sets out a pathway to decarbonising our society and gradually phasing out fossil fuels. This will ensure we reach our net zero targets and protect consumers by decoupling our sources of heating from the global fossil fuel markets, which are subject to price shocks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202823%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380211","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380211"}},{"id":"380210","reference":"AQW 2822/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-05","answerBy":"2022-09-21","answered":"2022-09-12","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 requires primary care providers to provide alternatives to telephone triage for people who are deaf or hard of hearing; and ii) who monitors the accessibility of primary care services in each Trust.","answerText":"I recognise the importance of ensuring that our HSC facilities and services, including primary care services, are accessible to everyone who needs to use them. GP practices in Northern Ireland are expected to address need within the requirements of equality, disability, human rights and data protection legislation and, as independent contractors, each practice can determine how best to do this within their local context.\n\nThe Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) rewards contractors for the provision of quality care and helps to standardise improvements in the delivery of primary medical services.\n\nThe 2022/23 Framework includes an indicator and guidance to support improved access for patients with hearing loss which includes the development and maintenance of a register of patients who have hearing loss and the adoption of a consistent approach to identify, record, flag and share relevant information with other healthcare providers as appropriate.\n\nThe Guidance asks practices to review their access arrangements for patients who are deaf or who have hearing loss and provides advice for good practice. The Guidance also asks practices to consider offering a range of different methods to contact the surgery eg text messaging, email and Video Relay Service (VRS).\n\nFunding for equipment has also been provided for surgery Jayex boards and T loops (audio induction) which will improve the quality of access for people with hearing difficulties.\n\nGP practices have received information in relation to communication support for patients who are deaf and hard of hearing.","answerHtml":"I recognise the importance of ensuring that our HSC facilities and services, including primary care services, are accessible to everyone who needs to use them. GP practices in Northern Ireland are expected to address need within the requirements of equality, disability, human rights and data protection legislation and, as independent contractors, each practice can determine how best to do this within their local context.
The Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) rewards contractors for the provision of quality care and helps to standardise improvements in the delivery of primary medical services.
The 2022/23 Framework includes an indicator and guidance to support improved access for patients with hearing loss which includes the development and maintenance of a register of patients who have hearing loss and the adoption of a consistent approach to identify, record, flag and share relevant information with other healthcare providers as appropriate.
The Guidance asks practices to review their access arrangements for patients who are deaf or who have hearing loss and provides advice for good practice. The Guidance also asks practices to consider offering a range of different methods to contact the surgery eg text messaging, email and Video Relay Service (VRS).
Funding for equipment has also been provided for surgery Jayex boards and T loops (audio induction) which will improve the quality of access for people with hearing difficulties.
GP practices have received information in relation to communication support for patients who are deaf and hard of hearing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202822%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380210","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380210"}},{"id":"380209","reference":"AQW 2821/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-05","answerBy":"2022-09-21","answered":"2022-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to confirm (i) how many audiology consultants are employed by each Trust; and (ii) the number of hours per week for first appointments for audiology services are provided per Trust.","answerText":"Audiologists are not doctors but a separate category of healthcare professional, therefore audiology consultant is not a term used within the Health and Social Care (HSC) system. Information about audiology services has been provided by each HSC Trust as below.\n\nBelfast HSC Trust:\n\n(i) 15.6 whole time equivalent (WTE) audiology staff (including 2.55 WTE associate and trainee associate audiologists) and 10 ENT consultants.\n\n(ii) 12 hours for audiology and 60 hours for ENT consultants per week (p/w), excluding audiology cover for ENT consultant-led clinics.\n\nSouth Eastern HSC Trust:\n\n(i) 14.22 WTE audiology staff.\n\n(ii) Average 130-160 hours p/w, excluding audiology cover for ENT consultant-led clinics.\n\nSouthern HSC Trust:\n\n(i) 14.5WTE audiology staff (including 0.6WTE associate audiologist and 2.0 WTE trainee associate audiologists).\n\n(ii) Average of 140 hours p/w, equivalent to 39% of audiologist time.\n\nWestern HSC Trust:\n\n(i) 10.87 WTE audiologists bands 4-8A, plus one band 4 pending a start date.\n\n(ii) 73.5 Trust audiology sessions p/w; 37% relate to new appointments.\n\nNorthern HSC Trust:\n\n(i) 14.3 WTE audiologists bands 4–8A.\n\n(ii) On average 24% of clinical time for adults and 20% of clinical time for paediatrics p/w relate to new audiology appointments.","answerHtml":"Audiologists are not doctors but a separate category of healthcare professional, therefore audiology consultant is not a term used within the Health and Social Care (HSC) system. Information about audiology services has been provided by each HSC Trust as below.
Belfast HSC Trust:
(i) 15.6 whole time equivalent (WTE) audiology staff (including 2.55 WTE associate and trainee associate audiologists) and 10 ENT consultants.
(ii) 12 hours for audiology and 60 hours for ENT consultants per week (p/w), excluding audiology cover for ENT consultant-led clinics.
South Eastern HSC Trust:
(i) 14.22 WTE audiology staff.
(ii) Average 130-160 hours p/w, excluding audiology cover for ENT consultant-led clinics.
Southern HSC Trust:
(i) 14.5WTE audiology staff (including 0.6WTE associate audiologist and 2.0 WTE trainee associate audiologists).
(ii) Average of 140 hours p/w, equivalent to 39% of audiologist time.
Western HSC Trust:
(i) 10.87 WTE audiologists bands 4-8A, plus one band 4 pending a start date.
(ii) 73.5 Trust audiology sessions p/w; 37% relate to new appointments.
Northern HSC Trust:
(i) 14.3 WTE audiologists bands 4–8A.
(ii) On average 24% of clinical time for adults and 20% of clinical time for paediatrics p/w relate to new audiology appointments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202821%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380209","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380209"}},{"id":"380208","reference":"AQW 2820/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-05","answerBy":"2022-09-21","answered":"2022-09-15","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 waiting lists for first appointments with an audiology service for each Trust, for each of the last five years.","answerText":"This information is not held centrally so the information was requested from the Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts. The HSC Trusts advised that completed waits for hearing aid fitting is already available to the Department of Health, but anything else would require significant resources and therefore only be supplied at disproportionate cost, or in some HSC Trusts that the information is not recorded as required. The Department collects and publishes community audiology waiting times for hearing aid fittings annually. The Audiology completed waits 2021/22 report was published on 23rd May 2022 and is available and published at the link provided.","answerHtml":"This information is not held centrally so the information was requested from the Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts. The HSC Trusts advised that completed waits for hearing aid fitting is already available to the Department of Health, but anything else would require significant resources and therefore only be supplied at disproportionate cost, or in some HSC Trusts that the information is not recorded as required. The Department collects and publishes community audiology waiting times for hearing aid fittings annually. The Audiology completed waits 2021/22 report was published on 23rd May 2022 and is available and published at the link provided.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202820%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380208","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380208"}},{"id":"380207","reference":"AQW 2819/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-05","answerBy":"2022-09-21","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department will review the gap in service between primary and secondary care providers, given that patients are going private for ear wax removal when National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines states this should be done in primary community care settings.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202819%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380207","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380207"}},{"id":"379843","reference":"AQW 2761/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-08-03","answerBy":"2022-08-18","answered":"2022-08-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 644/22-27, to list the seven churches that the Education Authority paid rent for between April 2016 to 31 March 2022.","answerText":"The names of the seven churches that the Education Authority paid rent for between April 2016 to 31 March 2022 are as follows:\n\n1 First Presbyterian Church Donaghadee\n\n2 Trustees of Straid Congregational Church\n\n3 St Lukes Church Loughgall\n\n4 Desertmartin Parish Church\n\n5 St Columb's Diocesan Trust\n\n6 Magheralin Parish Church\n\n7 First Islandmagee Presbyterian Church","answerHtml":"The names of the seven churches that the Education Authority paid rent for between April 2016 to 31 March 2022 are as follows:
1 First Presbyterian Church Donaghadee
2 Trustees of Straid Congregational Church
3 St Lukes Church Loughgall
4 Desertmartin Parish Church
5 St Columb's Diocesan Trust
6 Magheralin Parish Church
7 First Islandmagee Presbyterian Church
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202761%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=379843","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=379843"}},{"id":"379820","reference":"AQW 2738/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-08-03","answerBy":"2022-08-18","answered":"2022-08-11","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 the level of premia payments made to (i) Stranmillis University College; and (ii) St Mary's University College per year, over the last five years.","answerText":"The level of premia payments made to Stranmillis University College and St Mary's University College for the last five academic years are outlined in the table below.\n\nAcademic Year\n2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStranmillis University College\t£1,106,612\t£1,126,822\t£1,119,280\t£1,172,292\t£1,187,078\nSt Mary's University College\t£1,121,231\t£1,132,963\t£1,118,707\t£1,197,318\t£1,214,072","answerHtml":"The level of premia payments made to Stranmillis University College and St Mary's University College for the last five academic years are outlined in the table below.
| Academic Year | |||||
| 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | |
| Stranmillis University College | £1,106,612 | £1,126,822 | £1,119,280 | £1,172,292 | £1,187,078 |
| St Mary's University College | £1,121,231 | £1,132,963 | £1,118,707 | £1,197,318 | £1,214,072 |
Due to the continued absence of a functioning Executive, a 2022/23 budget cannot currently be approved, therefore the Housing Executive has been allocated an indicative budget. £72.8m has been allocated for 2022/23 to fund the Supporting People Programme. This is consistent with the baseline funding allocation of previous financial years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202737%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=379819","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=379819"}},{"id":"379818","reference":"AQW 2736/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-08-03","answerBy":"2022-08-18","answered":"2022-08-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure when will the MOT Test Centre in Newtownards be closed for refurbishment.","answerText":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has no plans to close Newtownards test centre for refurbishment during this financial year.\n\nThe DVA is developing a programme of work to refresh existing vehicle testing equipment across its network, which will require the staggered closure of tests centres. Once the programme is agreed with the equipment provider, and the dates of test centre closures are confirmed, this will be communicated to customers through the normal channels.","answerHtml":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has no plans to close Newtownards test centre for refurbishment during this financial year.
The DVA is developing a programme of work to refresh existing vehicle testing equipment across its network, which will require the staggered closure of tests centres. Once the programme is agreed with the equipment provider, and the dates of test centre closures are confirmed, this will be communicated to customers through the normal channels.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202736%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=379818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=379818"}},{"id":"379817","reference":"AQW 2735/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-08-03","answerBy":"2022-08-18","answered":"2022-08-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he plans to amend Regulation 8(b) of the Motor Vehicle Testing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 to allow for an MOT test to be booked more than three months in advance.","answerText":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity to pre-Covid levels by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and by offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, when testing is not normally available.\n\nThe DVA continues to experience significant demand for vehicle testing services and in some cases customers may not be able to have their vehicles tested before their current MOT certificate expires. In such cases, customers must book the earliest available test appointment for their vehicle, which may mean travelling to another test centre instead of their preferred location. The DVA releases vehicle test appointments on a daily basis and customers are encouraged to regularly check the booking system as they may be able to change their existing appointment to a different test centre and time if a slot becomes available.\n\nExtending the window for customers to book a test in advance of their MOT expiry date would increase demand on the service reducing the availability of appointments for those customers who require one more urgently. Therefore, the Department has no plans to amend Regulation 8(b) of the Motor Vehicle Testing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 to allow for an MOT test to be booked more than three months in advance.\n\nThe latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/book-view-change-or-cancel-mot-vehicle-test and is also included as an advice note with every MOT Reminder Letter issued to their customers.","answerHtml":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity to pre-Covid levels by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and by offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, when testing is not normally available.
The DVA continues to experience significant demand for vehicle testing services and in some cases customers may not be able to have their vehicles tested before their current MOT certificate expires. In such cases, customers must book the earliest available test appointment for their vehicle, which may mean travelling to another test centre instead of their preferred location. The DVA releases vehicle test appointments on a daily basis and customers are encouraged to regularly check the booking system as they may be able to change their existing appointment to a different test centre and time if a slot becomes available.
Extending the window for customers to book a test in advance of their MOT expiry date would increase demand on the service reducing the availability of appointments for those customers who require one more urgently. Therefore, the Department has no plans to amend Regulation 8(b) of the Motor Vehicle Testing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 to allow for an MOT test to be booked more than three months in advance.
The latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/book-view-change-or-cancel-mot-vehicle-test and is also included as an advice note with every MOT Reminder Letter issued to their customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202735%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=379817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=379817"}},{"id":"377969","reference":"AQW 2668/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-07-01","answerBy":"2022-07-20","answered":"2022-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the evidence required to demonstrate eligibility for the highest mobility rate of Disability Living Allowance, under the severe mental impairment criteria, for a child with Down Syndrome.","answerText":"Legislation does not define what evidence is required to support applications for Disability Living Allowance. However, people are encouraged to provide any evidence they have on their health condition or disability and how it impacts their daily life, in terms of care needs and mobility restrictions.\n\nLegislation stipulates that an award of the higher rate of the mobility component under the severe mental impairment criteria can only be made if the child is severely mentally impaired, displays severe behavioural problems and is entitled to the highest rate of the care component.","answerHtml":"Legislation does not define what evidence is required to support applications for Disability Living Allowance. However, people are encouraged to provide any evidence they have on their health condition or disability and how it impacts their daily life, in terms of care needs and mobility restrictions.
Legislation stipulates that an award of the higher rate of the mobility component under the severe mental impairment criteria can only be made if the child is severely mentally impaired, displays severe behavioural problems and is entitled to the highest rate of the care component.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202668%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377969","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377969"}},{"id":"377968","reference":"AQW 2667/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-07-01","answerBy":"2022-07-20","answered":"2022-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how many children who have Down Syndrome are currently in receipt of Disability Living Allowance; and (ii) how many are on the (a) standard; and (b) higher rate.","answerText":"As at February 2022 (latest published figures) there were 700 Disability Living Allowance recipients aged under 17 with Down Syndrome. The table below provides the breakdown of awards in these cases.\n\nRate of Award\tNo.\nHigher rate care only\t80\nMiddle rate care only\t40\nLower rate care only\t*\nLower rate mobility only\t*\nHigher rate care and higher rate mobility\t350\nHigher rate care and lower rate mobility\t110\nMiddle rate care and higher rate mobility\t50\nMiddle rate care and lower rate mobility\t70\nTotal\t700\n\nFigures are rounded to the nearest 10.\n\n*Less than 5","answerHtml":"As at February 2022 (latest published figures) there were 700 Disability Living Allowance recipients aged under 17 with Down Syndrome. The table below provides the breakdown of awards in these cases.
| Rate of Award | No. |
| Higher rate care only | 80 |
| Middle rate care only | 40 |
| Lower rate care only | * |
| Lower rate mobility only | * |
| Higher rate care and higher rate mobility | 350 |
| Higher rate care and lower rate mobility | 110 |
| Middle rate care and higher rate mobility | 50 |
| Middle rate care and lower rate mobility | 70 |
| Total | 700 |
Figures are rounded to the nearest 10.
*Less than 5
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202667%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377968","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377968"}},{"id":"377967","reference":"AQW 2666/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-07-01","answerBy":"2022-07-20","answered":"2022-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether staff who determine Disability Living Allowance awards for children with Down Syndrome are health professionals; and (ii) for a breakdown of the type of medical professional that determines these awards.","answerText":"Decisions on entitlement to Disability Living Allowance are made by Decision Makers appointed by the Department. These Decision Makers are civil servants and not health professionals but are extensively trained in Disability Living Allowance legislation and how to apply the eligibility criteria when determining claims.","answerHtml":"Decisions on entitlement to Disability Living Allowance are made by Decision Makers appointed by the Department. These Decision Makers are civil servants and not health professionals but are extensively trained in Disability Living Allowance legislation and how to apply the eligibility criteria when determining claims.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202666%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377967","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377967"}},{"id":"377936","reference":"AQW 2635/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-07-01","answerBy":"2022-07-20","answered":"2022-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the policy which takes into consideration mental capacity when assessing the mobility of a Disability Living Allowance claimant with Down Syndrome.","answerText":"Entitlement to the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance depends on the effects that a disability or health condition has on a child’s ability to walk, and not on the particular disability or diagnosis. Every claim is determined in line with the assessment criteria, relevant legislation and information provided.\n\nIn addition to where a child is unable to walk or virtually unable to walk, the mobility component is also payable where a child is able to walk but needs extra guidance or supervision when outdoors; or is severely mentally impaired with severe behavioural problems and qualifies for the highest rate of the care component.","answerHtml":"Entitlement to the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance depends on the effects that a disability or health condition has on a child’s ability to walk, and not on the particular disability or diagnosis. Every claim is determined in line with the assessment criteria, relevant legislation and information provided.
In addition to where a child is unable to walk or virtually unable to walk, the mobility component is also payable where a child is able to walk but needs extra guidance or supervision when outdoors; or is severely mentally impaired with severe behavioural problems and qualifies for the highest rate of the care component.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202635%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377936","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377936"}},{"id":"377935","reference":"AQW 2634/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-07-01","answerBy":"2022-07-20","answered":"2022-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what training staff receive on the assessment of Disability Living Allowance for children who have Down Syndrome.","answerText":"Decision Makers within Disability and Carers Service are extensively trained on the eligibility criteria for Disability Living Allowance and how to apply it when deciding claims. They also have access to online guidance, developed by leading medical experts, which provides the most up to date information on medical conditions. Health Professionals are also available to provide a daily advice service to Disability Living Allowance Decision Makers.\n\nOfficials are consistently striving to improve their knowledge and understanding of all aspects of their work and opportunities for improvement are always kept under review.","answerHtml":"Decision Makers within Disability and Carers Service are extensively trained on the eligibility criteria for Disability Living Allowance and how to apply it when deciding claims. They also have access to online guidance, developed by leading medical experts, which provides the most up to date information on medical conditions. Health Professionals are also available to provide a daily advice service to Disability Living Allowance Decision Makers.
Officials are consistently striving to improve their knowledge and understanding of all aspects of their work and opportunities for improvement are always kept under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202634%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377935","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377935"}},{"id":"377732","reference":"AQW 2543/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-30","answerBy":"2022-07-19","answered":"2022-07-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how many households in the private rented sector are in receipt of Local Housing Allowance, through universal credit housing costs and through housing benefit; (ii) how many of those households have rents that exceed the Local Housing Allowance; and (iii) of these households what is the median average gap between the rent and the Local Housing Allowance, for each broad rental market area, for the most recent period for which data is available.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has advised with regard to Housing Benefit:\n\nThere are 27,096 Private Sector tenants in receipt of Housing Benefit that are assessed under Local Housing Allowance rules.\n\nIn relation to rent exceeding the Local Housing Allowance, the Housing Executive is unable to obtain the exact numbers although believe the vast majority of claims will have a shortfall.\n\nThe Housing Executive are unable to answer this question as they are unable to extract details of claims that have a shortfall between rent charged by the landlord and that eligible under Local Housing Allowance rules.\n\nThe Department can advise that at the end of March 2022:\n\n(i) There were 32,673 households in the Private rented sector in receipt of Universal Credit\n\n(ii) Of these, 26,797 were in receipt of an LHA-capped housing payment that was lower than their declared rent\n\n(iii) The median gap between rent and LHA for each of the broad rental market areas is shown below:\n\nBroad Rental Market Area Median gap\n\nBelfast £93.05\n\nLough Neagh Lower £105.84\n\nLough Neagh Upper £96.08\n\nNorth £92.86\n\nNorth West £97.76\n\nSouth £111.23\n\nSouth East £101.97\n\nSouth West £108.33","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has advised with regard to Housing Benefit:
There are 27,096 Private Sector tenants in receipt of Housing Benefit that are assessed under Local Housing Allowance rules.
In relation to rent exceeding the Local Housing Allowance, the Housing Executive is unable to obtain the exact numbers although believe the vast majority of claims will have a shortfall.
The Housing Executive are unable to answer this question as they are unable to extract details of claims that have a shortfall between rent charged by the landlord and that eligible under Local Housing Allowance rules.
The Department can advise that at the end of March 2022:
(i) There were 32,673 households in the Private rented sector in receipt of Universal Credit
(ii) Of these, 26,797 were in receipt of an LHA-capped housing payment that was lower than their declared rent
(iii) The median gap between rent and LHA for each of the broad rental market areas is shown below:
Broad Rental Market Area Median gap
Belfast £93.05
Lough Neagh Lower £105.84
Lough Neagh Upper £96.08
North £92.86
North West £97.76
South £111.23
South East £101.97
South West £108.33
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202543%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377732","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377732"}},{"id":"377679","reference":"AQW 2490/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-30","answerBy":"2022-07-19","answered":"2022-07-07","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 progress of the Year 1 actions set out in the Cancer Recovery Plan, published on 24th June 2021, including the actions have been implemented and any slippage that has occurred.","answerText":"The Cancer Recovery Plan ‘Building Back; Rebuilding better’, that focused on recovering from the impact of COVID-19 has been superseded by the Cancer Strategy 2022-2032.\n\nOfficials in my Department are currently in process of progressing the key actions as outlined in the Cancer Strategy and delivery will be dependent on budget availability. I am very conscious of pressing demands for extra funding across many areas of health and social care and as Minister, I will continue to do the best I can to deliver for the public with the resources I have available.\n\nAmid ongoing budget uncertainty, I am on record as warning that funding pressures in health may be significant by the second half of 2022/23. The financial situation will undoubtedly be constrained whatever the final budget settlement.\n\nDespite the current and significant challenges in 2021, I introduced a grant scheme using COVID-19 funding of £10.1 million. This funding will afford cancer charities the opportunity to bid under a number of criteria which are aligned with recommendations in the Cancer Recovery Plan and the Cancer Strategy. The grant is managed through the Community Foundation Northern Ireland and between April 2021 and March 2022 there were 21 grants awarded at a total of £8.1million.","answerHtml":"The Cancer Recovery Plan ‘Building Back; Rebuilding better’, that focused on recovering from the impact of COVID-19 has been superseded by the Cancer Strategy 2022-2032.
Officials in my Department are currently in process of progressing the key actions as outlined in the Cancer Strategy and delivery will be dependent on budget availability. I am very conscious of pressing demands for extra funding across many areas of health and social care and as Minister, I will continue to do the best I can to deliver for the public with the resources I have available.
Amid ongoing budget uncertainty, I am on record as warning that funding pressures in health may be significant by the second half of 2022/23. The financial situation will undoubtedly be constrained whatever the final budget settlement.
Despite the current and significant challenges in 2021, I introduced a grant scheme using COVID-19 funding of £10.1 million. This funding will afford cancer charities the opportunity to bid under a number of criteria which are aligned with recommendations in the Cancer Recovery Plan and the Cancer Strategy. The grant is managed through the Community Foundation Northern Ireland and between April 2021 and March 2022 there were 21 grants awarded at a total of £8.1million.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202490%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377679"}},{"id":"377678","reference":"AQW 2489/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-30","answerBy":"2022-07-19","answered":"2022-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of people in housing stress in the Strangford constituency broken down by (i) age; (ii) gender; and (iii) length of time on the housing waiting list.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 2489/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 2489/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202489%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377678"}},{"id":"377677","reference":"AQW 2488/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-30","answerBy":"2022-07-19","answered":"2022-08-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether her Department has collated a breakdown of the reasons for last year's 45 per cent increase in homelessness.","answerText":"The Housing Executive notes that the 45% increase referred to at the All Party Group on Homelessness was referring to a specific reason for presenting as homelessness rather than an overall increase. There has been a significant increase in presentations due to loss of rented accommodation with 1,689 presentations in 2020/21 compared with 2,463 presentations in 2021/22, an increase of 45.8%. A key driver in this increase has been an increase in the sub-category loss of private rented accommodation due to property sale with 636 presentations in 2020/21 compared with 1,380 presentations in 2021/22, an increase of 117%.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive notes that the 45% increase referred to at the All Party Group on Homelessness was referring to a specific reason for presenting as homelessness rather than an overall increase. There has been a significant increase in presentations due to loss of rented accommodation with 1,689 presentations in 2020/21 compared with 2,463 presentations in 2021/22, an increase of 45.8%. A key driver in this increase has been an increase in the sub-category loss of private rented accommodation due to property sale with 636 presentations in 2020/21 compared with 1,380 presentations in 2021/22, an increase of 117%.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202488%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377677","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377677"}},{"id":"377676","reference":"AQW 2487/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-30","answerBy":"2022-07-19","answered":"2022-08-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what work is being done by her Department to assess the impact of the cost of living crisis on housing and homelessness.","answerText":"The current situation is uncertain for all concerned including those experiencing homelessness. The absence of a functioning Executive and no budget in place makes the challenge of dealing with these issues all the greater.","answerHtml":"The current situation is uncertain for all concerned including those experiencing homelessness. The absence of a functioning Executive and no budget in place makes the challenge of dealing with these issues all the greater.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202487%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377676","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377676"}},{"id":"377500","reference":"AQW 2390/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-29","answerBy":"2022-07-18","answered":"2022-08-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the report on the Independent Review of Welfare Mitigations will be published.","answerText":"The Welfare Mitigations independent advisory panel have presented their final report, including recommendations for new mitigation measures, to the Department. The report will be published at the earliest opportunity.\n\nThe implementation of any new payment schemes will require Executive agreement on the allocation of necessary funding.","answerHtml":"The Welfare Mitigations independent advisory panel have presented their final report, including recommendations for new mitigation measures, to the Department. The report will be published at the earliest opportunity.
The implementation of any new payment schemes will require Executive agreement on the allocation of necessary funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202390%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377500","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377500"}},{"id":"377499","reference":"AQW 2389/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-29","answerBy":"2022-07-18","answered":"2022-07-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how many Blue Badges are currently issued in Northern Ireland, broken down by council area.","answerText":"My Department has issued 121,273 Blue Badges in the North, although as the system does not record the Council area of the applicant, the information cannot be provided by Council area.\n\nThe Blue Badge Unit can provide details of the number of badges issued by postcode. If that would be useful you can request it by emailing: bluebadges@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"My Department has issued 121,273 Blue Badges in the North, although as the system does not record the Council area of the applicant, the information cannot be provided by Council area.
The Blue Badge Unit can provide details of the number of badges issued by postcode. If that would be useful you can request it by emailing: bluebadges@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202389%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377499","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377499"}},{"id":"377498","reference":"AQW 2388/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-29","answerBy":"2022-07-18","answered":"2022-07-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether the Department makes a payment to GPs if they are consulted as part of their patient’s application for a Blue Badge.","answerText":"My Department makes a payment of £22.85 for every Blue Badge GP Questionnaire that is satisfactorily completed and returned to the Blue Badge Unit for assessment as part of the Blue Badge application process.","answerHtml":"My Department makes a payment of £22.85 for every Blue Badge GP Questionnaire that is satisfactorily completed and returned to the Blue Badge Unit for assessment as part of the Blue Badge application process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202388%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377498","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377498"}},{"id":"377497","reference":"AQW 2387/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-29","answerBy":"2022-07-18","answered":"2022-07-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the current time from application to issue of Blue Badges in NI.","answerText":"During the period from 1 April 2022 to 30 June 2022 my Department’s Blue Badge Unit made decisions on 12,269 applications with 12,243 being made within the target date of 40 working days which equates to 99.8%.\n\nThe Blue Badge Unit are currently working on applications which were received during week commencing 20 June 2022.","answerHtml":"During the period from 1 April 2022 to 30 June 2022 my Department’s Blue Badge Unit made decisions on 12,269 applications with 12,243 being made within the target date of 40 working days which equates to 99.8%.
The Blue Badge Unit are currently working on applications which were received during week commencing 20 June 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202387%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377497","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377497"}},{"id":"377496","reference":"AQW 2386/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-29","answerBy":"2022-07-18","answered":"2022-07-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what plans are being considered to improve road safety at the crossroads at Ballyblack Road East, Ballyblack Road and Grangee Road, Carrowdore.","answerText":"I am aware that there have been some minor collisions at this location over a number of years and my Department has implemented a number of collision remedial measures including provision of enhanced warning and directional signs, advanced slow road markings and high friction surfacing, all of which combine to enhance driver awareness of and safety on the approaches to this junction.\n\nAlthough my Department has no current plans to implement further measures at this junction, I have asked my officials to continue to monitor the junction and to implement any further safety measures that are considered appropriate.\n\nShould you have any further questions on this please contact DfI Roads Southern Division at dfiroads.southern@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"I am aware that there have been some minor collisions at this location over a number of years and my Department has implemented a number of collision remedial measures including provision of enhanced warning and directional signs, advanced slow road markings and high friction surfacing, all of which combine to enhance driver awareness of and safety on the approaches to this junction.
Although my Department has no current plans to implement further measures at this junction, I have asked my officials to continue to monitor the junction and to implement any further safety measures that are considered appropriate.
Should you have any further questions on this please contact DfI Roads Southern Division at dfiroads.southern@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202386%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377496","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377496"}},{"id":"377374","reference":"AQW 2320/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-28","answerBy":"2022-07-15","answered":"2022-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many households are spending 30 per cent or more of their income on housing costs.","answerText":"In the financial year 2019/20, it was estimated that 8% of households had weekly housing costs that accounted for 30% or more of weekly household income. This estimate is based on data from the annual Family Resources Survey (FRS). The next edition of the FRS, covering the survey year of 2020/21 is due to be released in Autumn 2022.","answerHtml":"In the financial year 2019/20, it was estimated that 8% of households had weekly housing costs that accounted for 30% or more of weekly household income. This estimate is based on data from the annual Family Resources Survey (FRS). The next edition of the FRS, covering the survey year of 2020/21 is due to be released in Autumn 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202320%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377374","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377374"}},{"id":"377358","reference":"AQW 2304/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-28","answerBy":"2022-07-15","answered":"2022-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of house repossessions by mortgage lenders in each council area, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Department does not hold this information.\n\nUK Finance holds information regarding mortgages and publishes quarterly data regarding mortgage arrears and possessions – see link: https://www.ukfinance.org.uk/data-and-research/data/arrears-and-possessions\n\nThe Department of Justice (DoJ) publishes a quarterly bulletin on mortgage possessions which provides statistics for cases received (i.e. writs and originating summonses issued), cases disposed and final orders made in respect of mortgages in the Chancery Division of the High Court. The most recent bulletin covers the period from January to March 2022 – see link:\n\nhttps://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/justice/mortgages-bulletin-january-to-march-2022_0.pdf","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold this information.
UK Finance holds information regarding mortgages and publishes quarterly data regarding mortgage arrears and possessions – see link: https://www.ukfinance.org.uk/data-and-research/data/arrears-and-possessions
The Department of Justice (DoJ) publishes a quarterly bulletin on mortgage possessions which provides statistics for cases received (i.e. writs and originating summonses issued), cases disposed and final orders made in respect of mortgages in the Chancery Division of the High Court. The most recent bulletin covers the period from January to March 2022 – see link:
https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/justice/mortgages-bulletin-january-to-march-2022_0.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202304%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377358","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377358"}},{"id":"377332","reference":"AQW 2278/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-28","answerBy":"2022-07-15","answered":"2022-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the additional payments announced by the Chancellor to help people on benefits with the cost of living, will be disregarded and not treated as income when calculating those benefits.","answerText":"The additional payments announced will not have any impact on existing means-tested social security benefit awards (including Universal Credit) or tax credits either as “income” or “capital”. These payments will be tax-free and will not count towards the benefit cap.","answerHtml":"The additional payments announced will not have any impact on existing means-tested social security benefit awards (including Universal Credit) or tax credits either as “income” or “capital”. These payments will be tax-free and will not count towards the benefit cap.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202278%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377332","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377332"}},{"id":"377331","reference":"AQW 2277/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-28","answerBy":"2022-07-15","answered":"2022-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether people in receipt of Carers Allowance, who are not on other benefits, will receive a Cost of Living Payment.","answerText":"The package of measures announced by the Chancellor does not include a payment to those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance.","answerHtml":"The package of measures announced by the Chancellor does not include a payment to those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202277%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377331","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377331"}},{"id":"377330","reference":"AQW 2276/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-28","answerBy":"2022-07-15","answered":"2022-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what plans are in place to ensure women’s centres will continue to be funded.","answerText":"In the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget, all options are being considered.","answerHtml":"In the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget, all options are being considered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202276%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377330","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377330"}},{"id":"376940","reference":"AQW 2094/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-23","answerBy":"2022-07-08","answered":"2022-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what financial support he will be providing to community transport organisations to help them continue to deliver Rural Transport Fund objectives, while fuel prices are increasing.","answerText":"I recently met with representatives of some of the rural community transport providers funded by my Department to discuss the challenges they are facing including the continuing rises in fuel costs and the impact this has on the delivery of Dial-a-Lift. I fully appreciate and understand the real value and impact of this service ensuring that some of the most vulnerable people in our society are able to access essential local services and more actively participate in society Although I have issued interim 6 month grant awards my Department is facing significant resource pressures in 2022-23, impacted by a decade of austerity budgets from Westminster, the unprecedented increases in energy costs and rising inflation.\n\nThe refusal of the DUP to form an Executive means over £420m of funds being held at the centre cannot be released and I therefore cannot bid for additional in year funding. The blocking of the Executive also means a three year budget cannot be agreed which makes it extremely difficult for my Department to plan future investment.\n\nHowever, I am determined to do all I can to protect these services and my Department will continue to work closely with the community transport organisations to address their concerns and consider how best we can support services.","answerHtml":"I recently met with representatives of some of the rural community transport providers funded by my Department to discuss the challenges they are facing including the continuing rises in fuel costs and the impact this has on the delivery of Dial-a-Lift. I fully appreciate and understand the real value and impact of this service ensuring that some of the most vulnerable people in our society are able to access essential local services and more actively participate in society Although I have issued interim 6 month grant awards my Department is facing significant resource pressures in 2022-23, impacted by a decade of austerity budgets from Westminster, the unprecedented increases in energy costs and rising inflation.
The refusal of the DUP to form an Executive means over £420m of funds being held at the centre cannot be released and I therefore cannot bid for additional in year funding. The blocking of the Executive also means a three year budget cannot be agreed which makes it extremely difficult for my Department to plan future investment.
However, I am determined to do all I can to protect these services and my Department will continue to work closely with the community transport organisations to address their concerns and consider how best we can support services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202094%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376940","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376940"}},{"id":"376917","reference":"AQW 2071/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-23","answerBy":"2022-07-08","answered":"2022-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he intends to update the section 10B community transport minibus permit to match the section 19 permit used in GB.","answerText":"In 2019 the High Court handed down a judgment in respect of Section 19 Permits regarding the meaning of “non-commercial” and the guidance published by the Department for Transport in GB. My officials are currently reviewing this decision, after which I will consider the arrangements here.","answerHtml":"In 2019 the High Court handed down a judgment in respect of Section 19 Permits regarding the meaning of “non-commercial” and the guidance published by the Department for Transport in GB. My officials are currently reviewing this decision, after which I will consider the arrangements here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202071%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376917","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376917"}},{"id":"376916","reference":"AQW 2070/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-23","answerBy":"2022-07-08","answered":"2022-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) to provide an update on the Residents' Parking Schemes; and (ii) whether there are plans to extend to other areas.","answerText":"I can confirm that the review of residents’ parking schemes is complete and I plan to make the report public once I have had the opportunity to discuss its findings with my officials. The review report will set out the lessons learnt from the Rugby Road scheme in Belfast, and the other schemes that did not make it to implementation, and will be used to establish the policy for such schemes going forward.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that the review of residents’ parking schemes is complete and I plan to make the report public once I have had the opportunity to discuss its findings with my officials. The review report will set out the lessons learnt from the Rugby Road scheme in Belfast, and the other schemes that did not make it to implementation, and will be used to establish the policy for such schemes going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202070%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376916","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376916"}},{"id":"376915","reference":"AQW 2069/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-23","answerBy":"2022-07-08","answered":"2022-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what actions he is taking to address the backlog in MOT tests across NI.","answerText":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity to pre-Covid levels by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and by offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, when testing is not normally available.\n\nOfficial vehicle testing statistics are published on a monthly basis and can be accessed at https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/articles/driver-and-vehicle-agency-monthly-tests-conducted-statistics.\n\nThe DVA continues to experience significant demand for vehicle testing services and in some cases customers may not be able to have their vehicles tested before their current MOT certificate expires. In such cases, customers must book the earliest available test appointment for their vehicle, which may mean travelling to another test centre instead of their preferred location. The DVA releases vehicle test appointments on a daily basis and customers are encouraged to regularly check the booking system as they may be able to change their existing appointment to a different test centre and time if a slot becomes available.\n\nThe latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/book-view-change-or-cancel-mot-vehicle-test and is also included as an advice note with every MOT Reminder Letter issued to their customers.","answerHtml":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity to pre-Covid levels by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and by offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, when testing is not normally available.
Official vehicle testing statistics are published on a monthly basis and can be accessed at https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/articles/driver-and-vehicle-agency-monthly-tests-conducted-statistics.
The DVA continues to experience significant demand for vehicle testing services and in some cases customers may not be able to have their vehicles tested before their current MOT certificate expires. In such cases, customers must book the earliest available test appointment for their vehicle, which may mean travelling to another test centre instead of their preferred location. The DVA releases vehicle test appointments on a daily basis and customers are encouraged to regularly check the booking system as they may be able to change their existing appointment to a different test centre and time if a slot becomes available.
The latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/book-view-change-or-cancel-mot-vehicle-test and is also included as an advice note with every MOT Reminder Letter issued to their customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202069%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376915","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376915"}},{"id":"376914","reference":"AQW 2068/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-23","answerBy":"2022-07-08","answered":"2022-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how many cars are now untaxed as they have been unable to get an MOT appointment due to the backlog.","answerText":"Vehicle Excise Duty (Motor Tax) is an excepted matter and is administered and enforced by the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in Swansea on behalf of HM Treasury. The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not hold information on how many vehicles are now untaxed waiting on an MOT appointment. MLAs, acting on behalf of constituents, can contact the DVLA directly through a dedicated email address at DVLAMinisterials@dvla.gov.uk.\n\nThe DVA has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity to pre-Covid levels by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and by offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, when testing is not normally available.\n\nThe DVA’s advice to vehicle owners who require an MOT to tax their vehicle and cannot secure a date before their MOT expires is to:\n\nbook the earliest available appointment; and\n\nkeep checking the booking system for an earlier appointment.\n\nIf they get to within five days of the expiry date of their vehicle tax and they have been unable to secure an MOT appointment or their vehicle tax has expired, they should contact the DVA Customer Services team at dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk, and they will do their best to get an urgent appointment for the vehicle. To date, all customers who have contacted the DVA in these circumstances have been offered an earlier appointment slot.\n\nThe latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/book-view-change-or-cancel-mot-vehicle-test and is also included as an advice note with every MOT Reminder Letter issued to their customers.","answerHtml":"Vehicle Excise Duty (Motor Tax) is an excepted matter and is administered and enforced by the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in Swansea on behalf of HM Treasury. The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not hold information on how many vehicles are now untaxed waiting on an MOT appointment. MLAs, acting on behalf of constituents, can contact the DVLA directly through a dedicated email address at DVLAMinisterials@dvla.gov.uk.
The DVA has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity to pre-Covid levels by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and by offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, when testing is not normally available.
The DVA’s advice to vehicle owners who require an MOT to tax their vehicle and cannot secure a date before their MOT expires is to:
book the earliest available appointment; and
keep checking the booking system for an earlier appointment.
If they get to within five days of the expiry date of their vehicle tax and they have been unable to secure an MOT appointment or their vehicle tax has expired, they should contact the DVA Customer Services team at dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk, and they will do their best to get an urgent appointment for the vehicle. To date, all customers who have contacted the DVA in these circumstances have been offered an earlier appointment slot.
The latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/book-view-change-or-cancel-mot-vehicle-test and is also included as an advice note with every MOT Reminder Letter issued to their customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202068%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376914","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376914"}},{"id":"376489","reference":"AQW 1878/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-21","answerBy":"2022-07-06","answered":"2022-07-06","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 the process for formulating the first Sectoral Plan for Fisheries, as outlined in the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerText":"My Department is in the early stages of planning the formulation of the first Climate Action Plan for Northern Ireland. Consideration is being given to the design principles and it is intended that development of the draft Climate Action Plan for Northern Ireland, which will include the fisheries sectoral plan, will begin in August 2022.\n\nThe Climate Change Act requires departments to consult with relevant sector-specific advisory groups and these will include representatives from the fisheries sector. It is anticipated that the draft Climate Action Plan will be published for public consultation in March/April 2023.","answerHtml":"My Department is in the early stages of planning the formulation of the first Climate Action Plan for Northern Ireland. Consideration is being given to the design principles and it is intended that development of the draft Climate Action Plan for Northern Ireland, which will include the fisheries sectoral plan, will begin in August 2022.
The Climate Change Act requires departments to consult with relevant sector-specific advisory groups and these will include representatives from the fisheries sector. It is anticipated that the draft Climate Action Plan will be published for public consultation in March/April 2023.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201878%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376489"}},{"id":"376488","reference":"AQW 1877/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-21","answerBy":"2022-07-06","answered":"2022-07-05","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 when he plans to publish the first Sectoral Plan for Fisheries, as outlined in the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerText":"The Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 does not specify a specific timeframe for developing the first sectoral plans however the intention is that sectoral plans will be included within Northern Ireland’s first Climate Action Plan. The Climate Action Plan is required to be laid before the Assembly by the end of December 2023 and the sectoral plan for fisheries will be taken forward in line with the overall approach to and timeline for producing the Climate Action Plan.","answerHtml":"The Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 does not specify a specific timeframe for developing the first sectoral plans however the intention is that sectoral plans will be included within Northern Ireland’s first Climate Action Plan. The Climate Action Plan is required to be laid before the Assembly by the end of December 2023 and the sectoral plan for fisheries will be taken forward in line with the overall approach to and timeline for producing the Climate Action Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201877%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376488","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376488"}},{"id":"376487","reference":"AQW 1876/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-21","answerBy":"2022-07-06","answered":"2022-07-01","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 what progress has been made on the proposed designation of the East Coast (Northern Ireland) and Carlingford Lough as Special Protection Areas.","answerText":"Nature conservation in Northern Ireland is a devolved matter with the exception of the marine environment, where some functions are reserved matters. Therefore, decisions taken on marine SPAs require the consideration and approval of the Secretary of State for DEFRA.\n\nI am pleased to confirm that both the proposed East Coast (NI) Marine SPA and proposed marine extension to the existing Carlingford Lough SPA have been referred to the Secretary of State for DEFRA seeking his approval for their classification.","answerHtml":"Nature conservation in Northern Ireland is a devolved matter with the exception of the marine environment, where some functions are reserved matters. Therefore, decisions taken on marine SPAs require the consideration and approval of the Secretary of State for DEFRA.
I am pleased to confirm that both the proposed East Coast (NI) Marine SPA and proposed marine extension to the existing Carlingford Lough SPA have been referred to the Secretary of State for DEFRA seeking his approval for their classification.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201876%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376487","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376487"}},{"id":"375951","reference":"AQW 1570/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-15","answerBy":"2022-06-30","answered":"2022-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what protections are in place to ensure that, where there is a conflict of interest between an organisation being investigated and one or more Charity Commissioners, appropriate Departmental processes are in place to ensure openness and transparency is maintained and that any person with a potential or confirmed conflict of interest is not involved in the process.","answerText":"Charity Commissioners agree to abide by the seven principles of public life and agree to declare any personal or business interests which may, or may be perceived to, influence their judgement when performing their duties as a member of the Commission. Failure to do so could lead to their appointment being withdrawn.\n\nThe Commission’s Code of Conduct and the Standing Orders for Board meetings are publicly available on the Commission’s website. These require that Commissioners must abide by the rules of the Commission in handling conflicts of interest, including that all interests are made publicly available and maintained on the Commission’s website.\n\nShould a specific issue arise through the course of a Commissioner’s work that could give rise to a potential conflict, they are required to disclose their interest and withdraw from any discussion or consideration of the matter.\n\nThe Commission has committed to a review of its approach to conflicts of interest flowing from recommendations of a number of recent governance reviews.","answerHtml":"Charity Commissioners agree to abide by the seven principles of public life and agree to declare any personal or business interests which may, or may be perceived to, influence their judgement when performing their duties as a member of the Commission. Failure to do so could lead to their appointment being withdrawn.
The Commission’s Code of Conduct and the Standing Orders for Board meetings are publicly available on the Commission’s website. These require that Commissioners must abide by the rules of the Commission in handling conflicts of interest, including that all interests are made publicly available and maintained on the Commission’s website.
Should a specific issue arise through the course of a Commissioner’s work that could give rise to a potential conflict, they are required to disclose their interest and withdraw from any discussion or consideration of the matter.
The Commission has committed to a review of its approach to conflicts of interest flowing from recommendations of a number of recent governance reviews.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201570%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375951"}},{"id":"375950","reference":"AQW 1569/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-15","answerBy":"2022-06-30","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the Anti-Poverty Strategy will include actions to end the use of food banks and the food crisis.","answerText":"My Department continues to lead a significant programme of work on the co-design of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy. I am committed to delivering long-term, sustainable solutions to poverty in all its forms, including food insecurity.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to lead a significant programme of work on the co-design of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy. I am committed to delivering long-term, sustainable solutions to poverty in all its forms, including food insecurity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201569%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375950","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375950"}},{"id":"375949","reference":"AQW 1568/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-15","answerBy":"2022-06-30","answered":"2022-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions are being considered to reduce families' dependency on foodbanks.","answerText":"The Department has been running a Social Supermarket Pilot Programme since 2017. Following a positive evaluation of the programme and working on a co-design basis with local Councils, the Social Supermarket model will be rolled out. A Social Supermarket provides holistic support through the provision of food alongside wraparound services to address the root causes of poverty. This includes, but is not limited to, debt and benefits advice, budgeting, healthy eating, cooking on a budget, training and volunteering opportunities to enhance future employability.\n\nI am deeply frustrated that the lack of a functioning Executive and agreed budget prevents any further cost of living support measures being introduced, which could help to reduce dependency on foodbanks. However, I remain determined that my Department will continue to deliver support for those who are in need. I have tasked my officials to fully explore and expedite all options to address both the immediate needs of, and medium to longer term solutions to, the cost of living crisis.","answerHtml":"The Department has been running a Social Supermarket Pilot Programme since 2017. Following a positive evaluation of the programme and working on a co-design basis with local Councils, the Social Supermarket model will be rolled out. A Social Supermarket provides holistic support through the provision of food alongside wraparound services to address the root causes of poverty. This includes, but is not limited to, debt and benefits advice, budgeting, healthy eating, cooking on a budget, training and volunteering opportunities to enhance future employability.
I am deeply frustrated that the lack of a functioning Executive and agreed budget prevents any further cost of living support measures being introduced, which could help to reduce dependency on foodbanks. However, I remain determined that my Department will continue to deliver support for those who are in need. I have tasked my officials to fully explore and expedite all options to address both the immediate needs of, and medium to longer term solutions to, the cost of living crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201568%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375949","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375949"}},{"id":"375948","reference":"AQW 1567/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-15","answerBy":"2022-06-30","answered":"2022-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the (i) number of households in housing arrears to the Housing Executive; and (ii) the average household arrears, in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency and council area.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 1567/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 1567/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201567%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375948","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375948"}},{"id":"375592","reference":"AQW 1363/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-13","answerBy":"2022-06-28","answered":"2022-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) what progress is being made to create a standardised approach to Relationship and Sexuality Education; and (ii) whether pupils are being consulted as part of this process.","answerText":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is mandatory for all pupils of compulsory school age and it is the responsibility of the Board of Governors of each school to ensure that a comprehensive programme is delivered which meets the needs of its pupils.\n\nThe curriculum gives schools flexibility to adapt what they teach and use a variety of approaches and curricular resources that reflect, and are responsive to, the learning needs of their pupils. This ensures that young people are both safe and well-informed about all of the issues they face in modern society.\n\nProviding detailed lists of compulsory subject content within a curriculum does not in any way guarantee that a subject will be well or appropriately taught. Further, in an area such as RSE, prescribed content may rapidly become out of date or new issues may emerge.\n\nA wide range of resources have been developed and are available on the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s RSE Hub which will include the publication of an RSE Progression Framework. This approach is designed to improve confidence and capacity in the teaching of RSE. I have asked my officials to prepare additional guidelines for schools setting out the importance of ensuring the issues highlighted by the Gillen Review, including serious sexual offences and consent, are covered within the Curriculum. This will be issued before the end of the current school year.","answerHtml":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is mandatory for all pupils of compulsory school age and it is the responsibility of the Board of Governors of each school to ensure that a comprehensive programme is delivered which meets the needs of its pupils.
The curriculum gives schools flexibility to adapt what they teach and use a variety of approaches and curricular resources that reflect, and are responsive to, the learning needs of their pupils. This ensures that young people are both safe and well-informed about all of the issues they face in modern society.
Providing detailed lists of compulsory subject content within a curriculum does not in any way guarantee that a subject will be well or appropriately taught. Further, in an area such as RSE, prescribed content may rapidly become out of date or new issues may emerge.
A wide range of resources have been developed and are available on the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s RSE Hub which will include the publication of an RSE Progression Framework. This approach is designed to improve confidence and capacity in the teaching of RSE. I have asked my officials to prepare additional guidelines for schools setting out the importance of ensuring the issues highlighted by the Gillen Review, including serious sexual offences and consent, are covered within the Curriculum. This will be issued before the end of the current school year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201363%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375592","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375592"}},{"id":"375591","reference":"AQW 1362/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-13","answerBy":"2022-06-28","answered":"2022-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the reasons behind the absence of a standardised approach and curriculum for Relationship and Sexuality Education in schools across Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is mandatory for all pupils of compulsory school age and it is the responsibility of the Board of Governors of each school to ensure that a comprehensive programme is delivered which meets the needs of its pupils.\n\nThe curriculum gives schools flexibility to adapt what they teach and use a variety of approaches and curricular resources that reflect, and are responsive to, the learning needs of their pupils. This ensures that young people are both safe and well-informed about all of the issues they face in modern society.\n\nProviding detailed lists of compulsory subject content within a curriculum does not in any way guarantee that a subject will be well or appropriately taught. Further, in an area such as RSE, prescribed content may rapidly become out of date or new issues may emerge.\n\nA wide range of resources have been developed and are available on the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s RSE Hub which will include the publication of an RSE Progression Framework. This approach is designed to improve confidence and capacity in the teaching of RSE. I have asked my officials to prepare additional guidelines for schools setting out the importance of ensuring the issues highlighted by the Gillen Review, including serious sexual offences and consent, are covered within the Curriculum. This will be issued before the end of the current school year.","answerHtml":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is mandatory for all pupils of compulsory school age and it is the responsibility of the Board of Governors of each school to ensure that a comprehensive programme is delivered which meets the needs of its pupils.
The curriculum gives schools flexibility to adapt what they teach and use a variety of approaches and curricular resources that reflect, and are responsive to, the learning needs of their pupils. This ensures that young people are both safe and well-informed about all of the issues they face in modern society.
Providing detailed lists of compulsory subject content within a curriculum does not in any way guarantee that a subject will be well or appropriately taught. Further, in an area such as RSE, prescribed content may rapidly become out of date or new issues may emerge.
A wide range of resources have been developed and are available on the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s RSE Hub which will include the publication of an RSE Progression Framework. This approach is designed to improve confidence and capacity in the teaching of RSE. I have asked my officials to prepare additional guidelines for schools setting out the importance of ensuring the issues highlighted by the Gillen Review, including serious sexual offences and consent, are covered within the Curriculum. This will be issued before the end of the current school year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201362%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375591","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375591"}},{"id":"375442","reference":"AQW 1299/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-10","answerBy":"2022-06-27","answered":null,"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 support the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service to meet the target for response for life threatening, category 1 calls and emergency calls and ensure the safe delivery of patients to Emergency Departments.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201299%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375442","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375442"}},{"id":"375441","reference":"AQW 1298/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-10","answerBy":"2022-06-27","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many people waited more than (i) 4 hours; (ii) 8 hours; or (iii) 12 hours, from admission to treatment, in Accident and Emergency departments in each Health and Social Care Trust, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"My Department currently monitors the time waited, from arrival to discharge, for attendances at Emergency departments against the four and 12 hour waiting time targets. Information on patients who waited more than 8 hours is not recorded. Performance at each Emergency department is published on a quarterly basis at the link below:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-waiting-time-statistics-emergency-care-waiting-times-january-march-2022","answerHtml":"My Department currently monitors the time waited, from arrival to discharge, for attendances at Emergency departments against the four and 12 hour waiting time targets. Information on patients who waited more than 8 hours is not recorded. Performance at each Emergency department is published on a quarterly basis at the link below:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-waiting-time-statistics-emergency-care-waiting-times-january-march-2022
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201298%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375441"}},{"id":"375431","reference":"AQW 1288/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-10","answerBy":"2022-06-27","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 2390/17-22, to outline the reasons for the difference between the ADHD diagnosis wait times in different Health and Social Care Trusts, in particular the difference in waiting times for an appointment in the Northern Trust and the Belfast Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201288%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375431","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375431"}},{"id":"375424","reference":"AQW 1281/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-10","answerBy":"2022-06-27","answered":"2022-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what action will she take to ensure schools provide free period products to pupils in schools as part of the Period Dignity scheme.","answerText":"School engagement with the “Piot Scheme to Address Period Dignity in Schools” was significant in 2021/22. Eighty three percent of the budget was utilised. 70% of grammar schools, 82% of secondary schools and 89% of special schools placed orders by the end of March 2022. All primary schools either placed orders or received a stock allocation.\n\nThe scheme has been welcomed by 98.2% of pupils (1,680) and 98.8% (760) of teachers responding to CCEA’s baseline survey in June 2020. A follow up survey in January 2022 also received high response levels (1,722 pupils and 391 teachers), demonstrating a high level of engagement with addressing the issue of period dignity in schools.\n\nIn March 2022, the Department of Finance Supply Team approved expenditure for the pilot scheme to continue until June 2024. Based on the evidence gathered in the early stages of the scheme, DoF Supply was content that the need for the intervention had been demonstrated. Total budget for 2022/23 is £643k.\n\nCCEA’s activity in 2022/23 will include: building its database of Period Dignity Champions; further Teacher Professional Learning opportunities; revising guidance to include Northern Ireland based case studies of best practice in implementing the scheme; developing educational resources for primary, post-primary and special schools; and promotional activity, including social media, videos and posters. CCEA will also issue an annual teacher and pupil questionnaire towards the end of the financial year.","answerHtml":"School engagement with the “Piot Scheme to Address Period Dignity in Schools” was significant in 2021/22. Eighty three percent of the budget was utilised. 70% of grammar schools, 82% of secondary schools and 89% of special schools placed orders by the end of March 2022. All primary schools either placed orders or received a stock allocation.
The scheme has been welcomed by 98.2% of pupils (1,680) and 98.8% (760) of teachers responding to CCEA’s baseline survey in June 2020. A follow up survey in January 2022 also received high response levels (1,722 pupils and 391 teachers), demonstrating a high level of engagement with addressing the issue of period dignity in schools.
In March 2022, the Department of Finance Supply Team approved expenditure for the pilot scheme to continue until June 2024. Based on the evidence gathered in the early stages of the scheme, DoF Supply was content that the need for the intervention had been demonstrated. Total budget for 2022/23 is £643k.
CCEA’s activity in 2022/23 will include: building its database of Period Dignity Champions; further Teacher Professional Learning opportunities; revising guidance to include Northern Ireland based case studies of best practice in implementing the scheme; developing educational resources for primary, post-primary and special schools; and promotional activity, including social media, videos and posters. CCEA will also issue an annual teacher and pupil questionnaire towards the end of the financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201281%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375424","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375424"}},{"id":"375423","reference":"AQW 1280/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-10","answerBy":"2022-06-27","answered":"2022-06-27","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 uptake of the Period Dignity scheme within schools.","answerText":"School engagement with the “Piot Scheme to Address Period Dignity in Schools” was significant in 2021/22. Eighty three percent of the budget was utilised. 70% of grammar schools, 82% of secondary schools and 89% of special schools placed orders by the end of March 2022. All primary schools either placed orders or received a stock allocation.\n\nThe scheme has been welcomed by 98.2% of pupils (1,680) and 98.8% (760) of teachers responding to CCEA’s baseline survey in June 2020. A follow up survey in January 2022 also received high response levels (1,722 pupils and 391 teachers), demonstrating a high level of engagement with addressing the issue of period dignity in schools.\n\nIn March 2022, the Department of Finance Supply Team approved expenditure for the pilot scheme to continue until June 2024. Based on the evidence gathered in the early stages of the scheme, DoF Supply was content that the need for the intervention had been demonstrated. Total budget for 2022/23 is £643k.\n\nCCEA’s activity in 2022/23 will include: building its database of Period Dignity Champions; further Teacher Professional Learning opportunities; revising guidance to include Northern Ireland based case studies of best practice in implementing the scheme; developing educational resources for primary, post-primary and special schools; and promotional activity, including social media, videos and posters. CCEA will also issue an annual teacher and pupil questionnaire towards the end of the financial year.","answerHtml":"School engagement with the “Piot Scheme to Address Period Dignity in Schools” was significant in 2021/22. Eighty three percent of the budget was utilised. 70% of grammar schools, 82% of secondary schools and 89% of special schools placed orders by the end of March 2022. All primary schools either placed orders or received a stock allocation.
The scheme has been welcomed by 98.2% of pupils (1,680) and 98.8% (760) of teachers responding to CCEA’s baseline survey in June 2020. A follow up survey in January 2022 also received high response levels (1,722 pupils and 391 teachers), demonstrating a high level of engagement with addressing the issue of period dignity in schools.
In March 2022, the Department of Finance Supply Team approved expenditure for the pilot scheme to continue until June 2024. Based on the evidence gathered in the early stages of the scheme, DoF Supply was content that the need for the intervention had been demonstrated. Total budget for 2022/23 is £643k.
CCEA’s activity in 2022/23 will include: building its database of Period Dignity Champions; further Teacher Professional Learning opportunities; revising guidance to include Northern Ireland based case studies of best practice in implementing the scheme; developing educational resources for primary, post-primary and special schools; and promotional activity, including social media, videos and posters. CCEA will also issue an annual teacher and pupil questionnaire towards the end of the financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201280%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375423","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375423"}},{"id":"375369","reference":"AQW 1244/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-09","answerBy":"2022-06-24","answered":"2022-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether registration of birth forms could include a tick-box option for parents to declare in which education sector they wish their child to be educated.","answerText":"The purpose of a birth registration is to provide a permanent and official record of a child’s birth and is information on a life event at a point in time. The registration of the birth enables a birth certificate to be issued to the parents that will be required for various purposes throughout the child’s life and into adulthood, such as for claiming benefits, registration for school or opening a bank account.\n\nIt would not be appropriate to include a tick-box on the birth registration form for parents to declare in which education sector they wish their child to be educated as gathering this information would not be necessary for the birth registration and would be outside the role of the civil registration service.","answerHtml":"The purpose of a birth registration is to provide a permanent and official record of a child’s birth and is information on a life event at a point in time. The registration of the birth enables a birth certificate to be issued to the parents that will be required for various purposes throughout the child’s life and into adulthood, such as for claiming benefits, registration for school or opening a bank account.
It would not be appropriate to include a tick-box on the birth registration form for parents to declare in which education sector they wish their child to be educated as gathering this information would not be necessary for the birth registration and would be outside the role of the civil registration service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201244%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375369","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375369"}},{"id":"374318","reference":"AQW 701/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-27","answerBy":"2022-06-15","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will review the transition from Disability Living Allowance to Personal Independence Payments for young people with Down Syndrome, to ensure it doesn’t cause any undue stress.","answerText":"My Department aims to provide a quality service for all people transitioning from Disability Living Allowance to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) that causes the least amount of stress, irrespective of their age, disability or health condition.\n\nThis process is subject to ongoing review and enhancement","answerHtml":"My Department aims to provide a quality service for all people transitioning from Disability Living Allowance to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) that causes the least amount of stress, irrespective of their age, disability or health condition.
This process is subject to ongoing review and enhancement
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20701%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374318","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374318"}},{"id":"374317","reference":"AQW 700/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-27","answerBy":"2022-06-15","answered":"2022-08-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether her Department has any plans to introduce a standardised Disability Living Allowance award system for children with Down Syndrome.","answerText":"Entitlement to DLA depends on the extent to which a child needs help with personal care, requires supervision or has difficulty getting around; and not on a particular disability or diagnosis.\n\nThe amount of additional care and supervision a disabled child needs compared to that for a non-disabled child of similar age is taken into consideration. Every claim is determined in line with the assessment criteria, relevant legislation and information provided.","answerHtml":"Entitlement to DLA depends on the extent to which a child needs help with personal care, requires supervision or has difficulty getting around; and not on a particular disability or diagnosis.
The amount of additional care and supervision a disabled child needs compared to that for a non-disabled child of similar age is taken into consideration. Every claim is determined in line with the assessment criteria, relevant legislation and information provided.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20700%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374317","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374317"}},{"id":"374316","reference":"AQW 699/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-27","answerBy":"2022-06-15","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether her Department has any plans to review and improve benefits assessors' knowledge and understanding of children with Down Syndrome.","answerText":"Decision Makers within Disability and Carers Service are extensively trained on the eligibility criteria for Disability Living Allowance and how to apply it when deciding claims. They also have access to online guidance, developed by leading medical experts, which provides the most up to date information on medical conditions, including Down’s Syndrome and the likely effects it would have on a person’s care and mobility needs. Health Professionals are also available to provide a daily advice service to Disability Living Allowance Decision Makers.\n\nIn addition, senior officials from Disability and Carers Service met with the campaign group ‘Families with Ups and Downs’ in December 2021 to hear first-hand and address any concerns they had in relation to the administration of Disability Living Allowance.\n\nMy Officials are consistently striving to improve their knowledge and understanding of all aspects of their work and opportunities for improvement are always kept under review.","answerHtml":"Decision Makers within Disability and Carers Service are extensively trained on the eligibility criteria for Disability Living Allowance and how to apply it when deciding claims. They also have access to online guidance, developed by leading medical experts, which provides the most up to date information on medical conditions, including Down’s Syndrome and the likely effects it would have on a person’s care and mobility needs. Health Professionals are also available to provide a daily advice service to Disability Living Allowance Decision Makers.
In addition, senior officials from Disability and Carers Service met with the campaign group ‘Families with Ups and Downs’ in December 2021 to hear first-hand and address any concerns they had in relation to the administration of Disability Living Allowance.
My Officials are consistently striving to improve their knowledge and understanding of all aspects of their work and opportunities for improvement are always kept under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20699%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374316","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374316"}},{"id":"374315","reference":"AQW 698/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-27","answerBy":"2022-06-15","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether her Department has any plans to review the benefits system to ensure that Disability Living Allowance awards for children with Down Syndrome are never reassessed.","answerText":"There are measures in place in each of the benefit areas to ensure that people are not required to undertake unnecessary reviews. These processes are subject to ongoing review and enhancement.","answerHtml":"There are measures in place in each of the benefit areas to ensure that people are not required to undertake unnecessary reviews. These processes are subject to ongoing review and enhancement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20698%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374315","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374315"}},{"id":"374314","reference":"AQW 697/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-27","answerBy":"2022-06-15","answered":"2022-06-09","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 plans to review the rollout of smart meters in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Energy Strategy – Path to Net Zero Energy - Action plan published in January 2022 commits to delivering the following action this year:\n\nAction Plan 20: “Carry out a cost benefit analysis of electricity and gas smart meters and other technologies in order to access half-hourly and daily consumption information”.\n\nPlanning for the Cost Benefit Analysis is underway with the intention of completion by the end of this year. I will review the recommendations thereafter.","answerHtml":"The Energy Strategy – Path to Net Zero Energy - Action plan published in January 2022 commits to delivering the following action this year:
Action Plan 20: “Carry out a cost benefit analysis of electricity and gas smart meters and other technologies in order to access half-hourly and daily consumption information”.
Planning for the Cost Benefit Analysis is underway with the intention of completion by the end of this year. I will review the recommendations thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20697%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374314"}},{"id":"374232","reference":"AQW 651/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-26","answerBy":"2022-06-14","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether her Department has any plans to ensure children with a Statement of Special Educational Needs are included in a school’s total pupil numbers instead of being referred to as supernumerary.","answerText":"My Department did examine this issue some years ago with the managing authorities and sectoral body representatives and consulted with schools and Trades Union Side (TUS) on a draft proposal. This work was discontinued as factors such as annual growth or decline in pupil numbers at individual schools and the increasing number of children presenting with statements resulted in changeable modelling outcomes from year-to-year. This would have created difficulties for schools to manage any flexibilities they had around approved enrolments and how they could manage available places and in the assessment of suitable school sizes when planning new builds or extensions to existing school stock. There are no plans to review this practice at this time.","answerHtml":"My Department did examine this issue some years ago with the managing authorities and sectoral body representatives and consulted with schools and Trades Union Side (TUS) on a draft proposal. This work was discontinued as factors such as annual growth or decline in pupil numbers at individual schools and the increasing number of children presenting with statements resulted in changeable modelling outcomes from year-to-year. This would have created difficulties for schools to manage any flexibilities they had around approved enrolments and how they could manage available places and in the assessment of suitable school sizes when planning new builds or extensions to existing school stock. There are no plans to review this practice at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20651%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374232","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374232"}},{"id":"374225","reference":"AQW 644/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-26","answerBy":"2022-06-14","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for a breakdown of how much rent has been paid for (i) land; and (ii) premises belonging to churches in Northern Ireland, over the last 10 years.","answerText":"The Education Authority paid rent of £172,812 for land/premises owned by churches for the period 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2022. Details are not available for the period prior to April 2016, and it has not been possible to break this figure down further between land and premises, as rents for land and premises are not separated but are coded jointly to a single finance code. The records show that the payments were made to seven churches for land/premises owned by them.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority paid rent of £172,812 for land/premises owned by churches for the period 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2022. Details are not available for the period prior to April 2016, and it has not been possible to break this figure down further between land and premises, as rents for land and premises are not separated but are coded jointly to a single finance code. The records show that the payments were made to seven churches for land/premises owned by them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20644%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374225"}},{"id":"374220","reference":"AQW 639/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-26","answerBy":"2022-06-14","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the Local Housing Allowance was last reviewed; and when it will next be reviewed.","answerText":"In November 2021 the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions announced that the rates would be frozen at the rate determined for 2020/21 and would remain at this level in future years.\n\nI wrote to Therese Coffrey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, on 4 February 2022 requesting that urgent consideration be given to increasing the rates.\n\nI will continue to urge Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to reconsider and increase LHA rates.","answerHtml":"In November 2021 the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions announced that the rates would be frozen at the rate determined for 2020/21 and would remain at this level in future years.
I wrote to Therese Coffrey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, on 4 February 2022 requesting that urgent consideration be given to increasing the rates.
I will continue to urge Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to reconsider and increase LHA rates.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20639%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374220","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374220"}},{"id":"374206","reference":"AQW 625/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-26","answerBy":"2022-06-14","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of new social homes that will be built in the Strangford constituency in (i) 2022; and (ii) 2023, broken down by type of house and number of bedrooms.","answerText":"79 new social housing homes are currently under construction in the Strangford parliamentary constituency, with an anticipated practical completion date in 2022 or 2023.\n\n32 new social housing homes are currently programmed to start through the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) in 2022/23 and 2023/24 in the Strangford parliamentary constituency.\n\nPlease note that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Design & Build\n\nprocurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties.","answerHtml":"79 new social housing homes are currently under construction in the Strangford parliamentary constituency, with an anticipated practical completion date in 2022 or 2023.
32 new social housing homes are currently programmed to start through the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) in 2022/23 and 2023/24 in the Strangford parliamentary constituency.
Please note that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Design & Build
procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20625%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374206","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374206"}},{"id":"374205","reference":"AQW 624/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-26","answerBy":"2022-06-14","answered":"2022-06-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to outline the criteria that is used to place a child with a Statement of Special Educational Needs in a post-primary school; and (ii) whether that process takes into account the physical space needed for both the child and their classroom assistant.","answerText":"Where the Education Authority (EA) makes a statement in a case where the parent of a child concerned has expressed a preference for a grant-aided school pursuant to Article 44 of the Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 and Paragraph 5 of Schedule 2 to the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996, the EA shall specify the name of that school in the statement unless:\n\nThe school is unsuitable to the child’s age, ability or aptitude or to his special educational needs, or;\n\nThe attendance of the child at the school would be incompatible with the provision of efficient education for the children with whom he would be educated or the efficient use of resources.\n\nThe legislation is not drafted in such a way as to allow for consideration of the collective effect or impact of the admission of a number of pupils with statements of SEN on resources, including physical space, or on the efficient instruction of other children. Nor is the legislation drafted in such a way as to allow any further filtering of admissions, beyond that which is expressly set out above.\n\nChildren with a Statement of SEN are ‘supernumerary’ to the enrolment numbers and admissions numbers fixed by the Department for each school.","answerHtml":"Where the Education Authority (EA) makes a statement in a case where the parent of a child concerned has expressed a preference for a grant-aided school pursuant to Article 44 of the Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 and Paragraph 5 of Schedule 2 to the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996, the EA shall specify the name of that school in the statement unless:
The school is unsuitable to the child’s age, ability or aptitude or to his special educational needs, or;
The attendance of the child at the school would be incompatible with the provision of efficient education for the children with whom he would be educated or the efficient use of resources.
The legislation is not drafted in such a way as to allow for consideration of the collective effect or impact of the admission of a number of pupils with statements of SEN on resources, including physical space, or on the efficient instruction of other children. Nor is the legislation drafted in such a way as to allow any further filtering of admissions, beyond that which is expressly set out above.
Children with a Statement of SEN are ‘supernumerary’ to the enrolment numbers and admissions numbers fixed by the Department for each school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20624%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374205","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374205"}},{"id":"374123","reference":"AQW 568/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-25","answerBy":"2022-06-13","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission when a facility to provide subtitles during Assembly debates and Committee meetings will be available to Members via Starleaf.","answerText":"The StarLeaf system used by Members to make remote contributions to Committee meetings and Plenary sittings does not currently support automatic captioning and has no plans to do so.\n\nAssembly Commission officials will continue to monitor developments with the current supplier and the wider market, to determine the feasibility of ‘real time’ subtitling Assembly debates and committee meetings for Members.\n\nIt is however worth noting that continuous transmission of Assembly proceedings is now available via the headphones in the Chamber during Assembly business.","answerHtml":"The StarLeaf system used by Members to make remote contributions to Committee meetings and Plenary sittings does not currently support automatic captioning and has no plans to do so.
Assembly Commission officials will continue to monitor developments with the current supplier and the wider market, to determine the feasibility of ‘real time’ subtitling Assembly debates and committee meetings for Members.
It is however worth noting that continuous transmission of Assembly proceedings is now available via the headphones in the Chamber during Assembly business.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20568%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374123"}},{"id":"374122","reference":"AQW 567/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-25","answerBy":"2022-06-13","answered":"2022-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission when the review of Members' rental allowance will take place; and whether that review will consider backdating the allowance to the start of this mandate.","answerText":"As noted in the replies to AQW 22266/17-22 and AQW 30680/17-22, the Assembly Commission agreed at its meeting on 8 July 2021 that any new Determination on Members’ allowances could only be published alongside progress on legislative reform of the system of setting salaries and allowances for MLAs.\n\nYou will be aware that the Assembly Commission had introduced the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill in the last Assembly mandate. However, the Bill was not progressed in that mandate and it fell once the mandate ended.\n\nTherefore, a review of allowances payable to Members, to include the amounts of rent recoverable for a Member’s constituency office, can only be finalised once progress has been made on the legislative reform noted above.\n\nWhile the Assembly Commission remains in place following the recent Assembly election, no provision presently exists for the Assembly Commission to introduce a similar Bill to the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill in this Assembly mandate.\n\nIt is envisaged that a newly appointed Assembly Commission will determine the exact scope of the review. It is also anticipated that the review will consider a number of different aspects of the present Determination including market rates for rental payments and also the timing of the implementation of any changes that might be made.","answerHtml":"As noted in the replies to AQW 22266/17-22 and AQW 30680/17-22, the Assembly Commission agreed at its meeting on 8 July 2021 that any new Determination on Members’ allowances could only be published alongside progress on legislative reform of the system of setting salaries and allowances for MLAs.
You will be aware that the Assembly Commission had introduced the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill in the last Assembly mandate. However, the Bill was not progressed in that mandate and it fell once the mandate ended.
Therefore, a review of allowances payable to Members, to include the amounts of rent recoverable for a Member’s constituency office, can only be finalised once progress has been made on the legislative reform noted above.
While the Assembly Commission remains in place following the recent Assembly election, no provision presently exists for the Assembly Commission to introduce a similar Bill to the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill in this Assembly mandate.
It is envisaged that a newly appointed Assembly Commission will determine the exact scope of the review. It is also anticipated that the review will consider a number of different aspects of the present Determination including market rates for rental payments and also the timing of the implementation of any changes that might be made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20567%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374122"}},{"id":"374121","reference":"AQW 566/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-25","answerBy":"2022-06-13","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation guidance for booster jabs includes unpaid carers in the same category as paid carers.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20566%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374121"}},{"id":"374120","reference":"AQW 565/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-25","answerBy":"2022-06-13","answered":"2022-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what action she is taking to provide mental health support to the 244 children who were not provided with a post-primary school place.","answerText":"Emotional health and wellbeing is high priority for my Department and this has been even more so the case since the pandemic which has significantly impacted on the lives of our children and young people.\n\nIn February 2021, my Department and the Department of Health (DoH) published the ‘Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework’ which aims to:-\n\nEnsure children and young people are empowered and assisted to understand and take care/manage their emotional health and wellbeing.\n\nIdentify needs early and address effectively when required.\n\nEstablish an integrated model that supports an early help, support and intervention focus.\n\nReduce the numbers of children and young people requiring specialist intervention from Mental Health Services.\n\nA number of initiatives under the Framework may be particularly beneficial to support children’s mental health at key points such as the transition from primary to post-primary school. These include:-\n\nText A Nurse service - a secure and confidential text messaging service for young people aged 11-19 providing access to a school nurse.\n\nREACH – ‘Resilience in Education, Assisting Change to Happen’ programme for 6-19 year olds to develop positive emotional health, increase their readiness for learning and build their resilience.\n\nHealthy Happy Minds Therapeutic and Counselling Services pilot – providing therapeutic and counselling support for primary school pupils.\n\nSchool pastoral care teams and the Education Authority’s (EA) Youth Service Youth Online are also available to provide emotional help and support in a safe and secure way.","answerHtml":"Emotional health and wellbeing is high priority for my Department and this has been even more so the case since the pandemic which has significantly impacted on the lives of our children and young people.
In February 2021, my Department and the Department of Health (DoH) published the ‘Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework’ which aims to:-
Ensure children and young people are empowered and assisted to understand and take care/manage their emotional health and wellbeing.
Identify needs early and address effectively when required.
Establish an integrated model that supports an early help, support and intervention focus.
Reduce the numbers of children and young people requiring specialist intervention from Mental Health Services.
A number of initiatives under the Framework may be particularly beneficial to support children’s mental health at key points such as the transition from primary to post-primary school. These include:-
Text A Nurse service - a secure and confidential text messaging service for young people aged 11-19 providing access to a school nurse.
REACH – ‘Resilience in Education, Assisting Change to Happen’ programme for 6-19 year olds to develop positive emotional health, increase their readiness for learning and build their resilience.
Healthy Happy Minds Therapeutic and Counselling Services pilot – providing therapeutic and counselling support for primary school pupils.
School pastoral care teams and the Education Authority’s (EA) Youth Service Youth Online are also available to provide emotional help and support in a safe and secure way.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20565%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374120"}},{"id":"374119","reference":"AQW 564/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-25","answerBy":"2022-06-13","answered":"2022-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many of the 244 pupils who were not allocated a post-primary place had (i) a statement of special educational needs; and (ii) a reported medical need.","answerText":"The post-primary admissions process places children who do not have a statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN); children who have a statement are placed through a different process. As a result, none of the 244 children who were initially not allocated a school place held a statement. Figures on the number of children who have a reported medical need is not collected as part of the admissions process.","answerHtml":"The post-primary admissions process places children who do not have a statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN); children who have a statement are placed through a different process. As a result, none of the 244 children who were initially not allocated a school place held a statement. Figures on the number of children who have a reported medical need is not collected as part of the admissions process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20564%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374119","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374119"}},{"id":"373983","reference":"AQW 492/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-24","answerBy":"2022-06-10","answered":"2022-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide an up to date organisational chart for her Department.","answerText":"Minister - Deirdre Hargey MLA\nPermanent Secretary - Colum Boyle\nBeverley Wall\nDeputy Secretary Strategic Policy & Professional Services\nCentral Policy\nFinancial Management\nFinancial Planning\nEquality\nGovernance & Commercial Services\nCommunications\nPrivate Office\tMark O’Donnell\nHousing, Urban Regeneration and Local Government\nRegional Dev\nNW Dev Office\nHousing Supply Policy\nHousing Policy & Oversight\nLocal Gov & Housing Reg\nBelfast Regeneration\tMoira Doherty\nEngaged Communities\nCulture\nPRONI\nCommunity Empowerment\nHistoric Environment\nC&V\nSports\tPaddy Rooney\n(TP) Deputy Secretary Work & Health\nWork & Wellbeing\nWorking age & Universal Credit\nSocial Security Policy & Legislation\tBrenda Henderson\n(TP) Deputy Secretary Supporting People\nChild Maintenance\nPensions Disability\nBenefits Security\nDebt\nInformation Services\nProperty Management","answerHtml":"| Minister - Deirdre Hargey MLA | ||||
| Permanent Secretary - Colum Boyle | ||||
| Beverley Wall Deputy Secretary Strategic Policy & Professional Services Central Policy Financial Management Financial Planning Equality Governance & Commercial Services Communications Private Office | Mark O’Donnell Housing, Urban Regeneration and Local Government Regional Dev NW Dev Office Housing Supply Policy Housing Policy & Oversight Local Gov & Housing Reg Belfast Regeneration | Moira Doherty Engaged Communities Culture PRONI Community Empowerment Historic Environment C&V Sports | Paddy Rooney (TP) Deputy Secretary Work & Health Work & Wellbeing Working age & Universal Credit Social Security Policy & Legislation | Brenda Henderson (TP) Deputy Secretary Supporting People Child Maintenance Pensions Disability Benefits Security Debt Information Services Property Management |
An analysis of available data in the School Leavers Survey and in the Northern Ireland School Census indicates that approximately 2.2% of Year 13 pupils had a leaving date before the end of the 2019/20 academic year. The respective figure for 2020/21 was 2.6%. Information for 2021/22 will not be available until May 2023.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20491%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373982","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373982"}},{"id":"373953","reference":"AQW 462/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-24","answerBy":"2022-06-10","answered":"2022-06-09","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 a breakdown of the drop-out rate for first year students at all universities in Northern Ireland in (i) 2019/2020; (ii) 2020/2021; and (iii) 2021/2022.","answerText":"My Department does not routinely collect information on drop-out rates for first-year higher education students. Instead, this is collected and published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) on its website: https://www.hesa.ac.uk/data-and-analysis/performance-indicators/non-continuation\n\nThe latest available HESA data is for the 2020/21 academic year. However, data regarding non-continuation rates can only be determined the following academic year and, as such, the most recent non-continuation rates available are for first degree entrants during the 2019/2020 academic year.\n\nFor ease of reference, Table A below shows non-continuation following year of entry of UK domiciled full-time first-degree entrants at NI Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) from 2017/18 to 2019/20.\n\nTable B shows the information for part-time first-degree entrants at NI HEIs from 2016/17 to 2018/19. These are supplied separately, as the full-time rates are based on dropouts after one year and the part-time rates are based on dropouts after 2 years.\n\nTABLE A - UK domiciled full-time first-degree entrants at NI HEIs - 2017/18 to 2019/20\n\nPercentage no longer in HE one year after entry\n2019/20\t2018/19\t2017/18\nInstitution\tyear of entry\tyear of entry\tyear of entry\nQueen's University Belfast\t3.3%\t4.9%\t4.9%\nSt Mary's University College\t3.9%\t1.2%\t4.4%\nStranmillis University College\t6.1%\t5.8%\t2.4%\nUlster University\t4.9%\t6.6%\t9.3%\nTotal Northern Ireland\t4.2%\t5.7%\t7.1%\n\nTABLE B - UK domiciled part-time first-degree entrants at NI HEIs - 2016/17 to 2018/19\n\nPercentage no longer in HE two years after entry\n2018/19\t2017/18\t2016/17\nInstitution\tyear of entry\tyear of entry\tyear of entry\nQueen's University Belfast\t14.6%\t14.3%\t32.0%\nThe Open University in Northern Ireland\t30.3%\t33.4%\t42.2%\nStranmillis University College\t7.7%\t3.4%\t9.1%\nUlster University\t21.4%\t21.7%\t24.4%\nTotal Northern Ireland\t25.4%\t26.9%\t32.5%","answerHtml":"My Department does not routinely collect information on drop-out rates for first-year higher education students. Instead, this is collected and published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) on its website: https://www.hesa.ac.uk/data-and-analysis/performance-indicators/non-continuation
The latest available HESA data is for the 2020/21 academic year. However, data regarding non-continuation rates can only be determined the following academic year and, as such, the most recent non-continuation rates available are for first degree entrants during the 2019/2020 academic year.
For ease of reference, Table A below shows non-continuation following year of entry of UK domiciled full-time first-degree entrants at NI Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) from 2017/18 to 2019/20.
Table B shows the information for part-time first-degree entrants at NI HEIs from 2016/17 to 2018/19. These are supplied separately, as the full-time rates are based on dropouts after one year and the part-time rates are based on dropouts after 2 years.
TABLE A - UK domiciled full-time first-degree entrants at NI HEIs - 2017/18 to 2019/20
| Percentage no longer in HE one year after entry | |||
| 2019/20 | 2018/19 | 2017/18 | |
| Institution | year of entry | year of entry | year of entry |
| Queen's University Belfast | 3.3% | 4.9% | 4.9% |
| St Mary's University College | 3.9% | 1.2% | 4.4% |
| Stranmillis University College | 6.1% | 5.8% | 2.4% |
| Ulster University | 4.9% | 6.6% | 9.3% |
| Total Northern Ireland | 4.2% | 5.7% | 7.1% |
TABLE B - UK domiciled part-time first-degree entrants at NI HEIs - 2016/17 to 2018/19
| Percentage no longer in HE two years after entry | |||
| 2018/19 | 2017/18 | 2016/17 | |
| Institution | year of entry | year of entry | year of entry |
| Queen's University Belfast | 14.6% | 14.3% | 32.0% |
| The Open University in Northern Ireland | 30.3% | 33.4% | 42.2% |
| Stranmillis University College | 7.7% | 3.4% | 9.1% |
| Ulster University | 21.4% | 21.7% | 24.4% |
| Total Northern Ireland | 25.4% | 26.9% | 32.5% |
Following the transfer of responsibility for the majority of planning functions to local councils in April 2015, it is a matter for the local council to determine whether the quarry is operating within its planning permission.
It should be noted that the local council has powers to control nuisance vibrations (from blasting), noise emissions and dust from quarries under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2011. These powers are separate from the council’s powers under planning legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20461%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373952","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373952"}},{"id":"373951","reference":"AQW 460/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-24","answerBy":"2022-06-10","answered":"2022-06-06","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 work to modernise the Review of Old Mineral Permissions legislation.","answerText":"Work to modernise the review of old mineral permissions (ROMPs) legislation will require amendments to primary legislation to comply with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive and to ensure appropriate transparency and public participation and that the full quarrying process is covered. An Executive must be in place in order to bring forward these legislative amendments.","answerHtml":"Work to modernise the review of old mineral permissions (ROMPs) legislation will require amendments to primary legislation to comply with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive and to ensure appropriate transparency and public participation and that the full quarrying process is covered. An Executive must be in place in order to bring forward these legislative amendments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20460%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373951"}},{"id":"373884","reference":"AQW 415/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-23","answerBy":"2022-06-09","answered":"2022-06-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) why children with a statement of special education needs were not given notice of their secondary school on the same day as their peers; and (ii) has this policy ever been subject to an equality impact assessment.","answerText":"The transfer from primary to post primary education for children with a Statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) is managed through a separate process associated with the Annual Review of that Statement rather than the Transfer Admissions arrangements.\n\nThe SEN Transfer process administered by the Statutory Assessment and Review Service (SARS) is reflective of the requirements of schools and the Education Authority (EA) to make arrangements for the Annual Review of children with SEN as prescribed in legislation, specifically the Education (NI) Order 1996 (“The 1996 Order”), the Special Educational Needs and Disability Order (SENDO) 2005 and the Education (SEN) Regulations (NI) 2005.\n\nArticle 4 of “the 1996 Order” also places a duty on the EA to have regard to the provisions of the Code of Practice. For that reason, SARS also takes cognisance of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs (1998) and the Supplement to the Code of Practice (2005).\n\nThe SEN Transfer process, as prescribed in legislation, consequently manages each child’s placement on a case by case basis, ensuring each child receives a suitable placement that will appropriately support and cater to their individual needs. Children are informed once their school placement has been finalised, rather than on a fixed date.\n\nThe Transfer of pupils with Statements of Special Educational Needs does not arise from an EA Policy. This process is administered by the Statutory Assessment and Review Service in accordance with the Education (NI) Order 1996 (“The 1996 Order”), the Special Educational Needs and Disability Order (SENDO) 2005 and the Education (SEN) Regulations (NI) 2005.","answerHtml":"The transfer from primary to post primary education for children with a Statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) is managed through a separate process associated with the Annual Review of that Statement rather than the Transfer Admissions arrangements.
The SEN Transfer process administered by the Statutory Assessment and Review Service (SARS) is reflective of the requirements of schools and the Education Authority (EA) to make arrangements for the Annual Review of children with SEN as prescribed in legislation, specifically the Education (NI) Order 1996 (“The 1996 Order”), the Special Educational Needs and Disability Order (SENDO) 2005 and the Education (SEN) Regulations (NI) 2005.
Article 4 of “the 1996 Order” also places a duty on the EA to have regard to the provisions of the Code of Practice. For that reason, SARS also takes cognisance of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs (1998) and the Supplement to the Code of Practice (2005).
The SEN Transfer process, as prescribed in legislation, consequently manages each child’s placement on a case by case basis, ensuring each child receives a suitable placement that will appropriately support and cater to their individual needs. Children are informed once their school placement has been finalised, rather than on a fixed date.
The Transfer of pupils with Statements of Special Educational Needs does not arise from an EA Policy. This process is administered by the Statutory Assessment and Review Service in accordance with the Education (NI) Order 1996 (“The 1996 Order”), the Special Educational Needs and Disability Order (SENDO) 2005 and the Education (SEN) Regulations (NI) 2005.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20415%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373884","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373884"}},{"id":"373880","reference":"AQW 411/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-23","answerBy":"2022-06-09","answered":"2022-06-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) how many children with a statement of special education needs are due to start (a) pre-school; (b) primary school; and (c) post-primary school; and (ii) of those children how many have yet to be provided with a place.","answerText":"As of 8 June 2022:\n\n3345 children with a statement of SEN are due to start pre-school, primary school or move to post-primary school, including:\n\nPre-school: 211 children with a statement of SEN;\n\nPrimary School: 1037 children with a statement of SEN; and\n\nPost-primary (P7-Yr8): 2097 children with a statement of SEN.\n\nOf the 3345 children with a statement of SEN in pre-school, primary and post-primary 2708 have a confirmed place.","answerHtml":"As of 8 June 2022:
3345 children with a statement of SEN are due to start pre-school, primary school or move to post-primary school, including:
Pre-school: 211 children with a statement of SEN;
Primary School: 1037 children with a statement of SEN; and
Post-primary (P7-Yr8): 2097 children with a statement of SEN.
Of the 3345 children with a statement of SEN in pre-school, primary and post-primary 2708 have a confirmed place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20411%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373880","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373880"}},{"id":"373879","reference":"AQW 410/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-23","answerBy":"2022-06-09","answered":"2022-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for a breakdown of the underspend resulting from the Emergency Home Heating scheme administered by Bryson; and what has happened with that underspend.","answerText":"My Department made a contribution of £2 million to the scheme which was fully spent.","answerHtml":"My Department made a contribution of £2 million to the scheme which was fully spent.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20410%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373879","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373879"}},{"id":"373878","reference":"AQW 409/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-23","answerBy":"2022-06-09","answered":"2022-06-08","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 he has met with HMRC to raise the need to increase basic mileage rate allowances for employees during the fuel price crisis.","answerText":"I have not met with HMRC on the topic of mileage rate allowance as this would not fall within the responsibility of my Department.","answerHtml":"I have not met with HMRC on the topic of mileage rate allowance as this would not fall within the responsibility of my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20409%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373878","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373878"}},{"id":"373877","reference":"AQW 408/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-23","answerBy":"2022-06-09","answered":"2022-05-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how many companies in Northern Ireland do not pay their staff or volunteers the HMRC business mileage rate.","answerText":"My Department does not hold or have access to this information.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold or have access to this information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20408%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373877","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373877"}},{"id":"373672","reference":"AQW 244/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-19","answerBy":"2022-06-07","answered":"2022-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what actions her Department has taken to address the shortage of classroom assistants.","answerText":"The majority of Classroom Assistants working in schools in Northern Ireland are employed by the Education Authority (EA). The EA has advised that it has taken a number of actions at an operational level to support schools in addressing short-term and emergency gaps in Classroom Assistant cover, including the establishment of a relief register for all grades of Classroom Assistant. When a school has a need for emergency cover for a Classroom Assistant post, the EA's Emergency Resourcing team works with the school to help them secure emergency cover.\n\nAt a strategic level, the EA is in the process of establishing a project to review the current employment model for Classroom Assistants working with pupils with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) and provide recommendations for strategic change. The primary focus of the review will be on how to optimise the capacity and development of the Classroom Assistant workforce to support pupils with SEND, but the resulting employment model will extend to cover other general assistant roles.","answerHtml":"The majority of Classroom Assistants working in schools in Northern Ireland are employed by the Education Authority (EA). The EA has advised that it has taken a number of actions at an operational level to support schools in addressing short-term and emergency gaps in Classroom Assistant cover, including the establishment of a relief register for all grades of Classroom Assistant. When a school has a need for emergency cover for a Classroom Assistant post, the EA's Emergency Resourcing team works with the school to help them secure emergency cover.
At a strategic level, the EA is in the process of establishing a project to review the current employment model for Classroom Assistants working with pupils with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) and provide recommendations for strategic change. The primary focus of the review will be on how to optimise the capacity and development of the Classroom Assistant workforce to support pupils with SEND, but the resulting employment model will extend to cover other general assistant roles.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20244%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373672","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373672"}},{"id":"373671","reference":"AQW 243/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-19","answerBy":"2022-06-07","answered":"2022-05-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for a breakdown of the average school attendance rates in (i) primary; and (ii) post-primary schools for 2021/2022.","answerText":"The following sets out the most recent average year to date school attendance rates in both primary and post-primary schools for 2021/2022.\n\nSeptember 2021 to April 2022 - Primary attendance rate: 91.4%\n\nSeptember 2021 to April 2022 - Post Primary attendance rate: 88.8%","answerHtml":"The following sets out the most recent average year to date school attendance rates in both primary and post-primary schools for 2021/2022.
September 2021 to April 2022 - Primary attendance rate: 91.4%
September 2021 to April 2022 - Post Primary attendance rate: 88.8%
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20243%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373671","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373671"}},{"id":"373670","reference":"AQW 242/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-19","answerBy":"2022-06-07","answered":"2022-08-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how many short breaks were provided to unpaid carers by each Health and Social Care Trust during the first quarter of 2022; and (ii) how this compares to the first quarter in (a) 2021; (b) 2020; and (c) 2019.","answerText":"Short Breaks remain limited as Trusts are dependent on access to respite beds in care homes, which are subject to public health guidance in relation to admissions from the community. The Public Health Agency recently issued a communication to care homes, to relax testing and admission guidelines, to improve the availability of short breaks.\n\nIn addition, the Department is aware that several respite beds in care homes have been withdrawn by independent sector providers. Due to the limited availability of bed based Short Breaks over the last two years the frequency of access to this service has been determined by the social work assessment of need.\n\nWhile the total number of short breaks provided to unpaid carers is not routinely collected, therefore, presented in Table 1 below is the number of individual adult carers who received a short break during the period by each Health and Social Care Trust.\n\nTable 1: The number of adult carers provided with a short break, by each Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT), for the first quarter in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.\n\nHSCT Name\tJan - Mar 2019\tJan - Mar 2020\tJan - Mar 2021\tJan - Mar 2022\nBelfast\t1,441\t1,155\t2,127\t1,894\nNorthern\t3,129\t5,411\t2,961\t2,354\nSouth Eastern\t1,583\t1,731\t1,403\t1,225\nSouthern\t1,745\t1,729\t1,599\t1,389\nWestern\t885\t900\t763\t637\nNorthern Ireland\t8,783\t10,926\t8,853\t7,499\n\nSource: Quarterly returns supplied by HSC Trusts to the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG).\n\nIt should be noted that the figures above are representative of the number of adults receiving a short break during the specified time period. Trusts only report on adult short break care where an adult is caring for another adult and excludes young carers or children being cared for. The information presented excludes day care activity. Additionally, please note that there may be an element of double/over counting as carers potentially can get more than one form of short break during the period. The above information is sourced predominantly from manual systems and therefore should be treated with caution as figures are subject to change.\n\nFurther information on the remobilisation of learning disability services can be found on the Department’s website:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/remobilisation-learning-disability-services","answerHtml":"Short Breaks remain limited as Trusts are dependent on access to respite beds in care homes, which are subject to public health guidance in relation to admissions from the community. The Public Health Agency recently issued a communication to care homes, to relax testing and admission guidelines, to improve the availability of short breaks.
In addition, the Department is aware that several respite beds in care homes have been withdrawn by independent sector providers. Due to the limited availability of bed based Short Breaks over the last two years the frequency of access to this service has been determined by the social work assessment of need.
While the total number of short breaks provided to unpaid carers is not routinely collected, therefore, presented in Table 1 below is the number of individual adult carers who received a short break during the period by each Health and Social Care Trust.
Table 1: The number of adult carers provided with a short break, by each Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT), for the first quarter in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.
| HSCT Name | Jan - Mar 2019 | Jan - Mar 2020 | Jan - Mar 2021 | Jan - Mar 2022 |
| Belfast | 1,441 | 1,155 | 2,127 | 1,894 |
| Northern | 3,129 | 5,411 | 2,961 | 2,354 |
| South Eastern | 1,583 | 1,731 | 1,403 | 1,225 |
| Southern | 1,745 | 1,729 | 1,599 | 1,389 |
| Western | 885 | 900 | 763 | 637 |
| Northern Ireland | 8,783 | 10,926 | 8,853 | 7,499 |
Source: Quarterly returns supplied by HSC Trusts to the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG).
It should be noted that the figures above are representative of the number of adults receiving a short break during the specified time period. Trusts only report on adult short break care where an adult is caring for another adult and excludes young carers or children being cared for. The information presented excludes day care activity. Additionally, please note that there may be an element of double/over counting as carers potentially can get more than one form of short break during the period. The above information is sourced predominantly from manual systems and therefore should be treated with caution as figures are subject to change.
Further information on the remobilisation of learning disability services can be found on the Department’s website:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/remobilisation-learning-disability-services
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20242%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373670","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373670"}},{"id":"373669","reference":"AQW 241/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-19","answerBy":"2022-06-07","answered":"2022-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how many people were supported by day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust during the first quarter of 2022; and (ii) how this compares to the first quarter in (a) 2021; (b) 2020; and (c) 2019.","answerText":"The Department does not hold this information centrally and it was requested from the Health and Social Care Trusts. Please find information detailed below.\n\nPlease note that the figures provided from the HSC Trusts are compiled from varying categories of care, and some categories of care are only available for some of the years requested. Belfast HSC Trust and Western HSC Trust provided information for mental health, learning disability, older people’s services and physical and sensory disability categories of care, and Western HSC Trust’s older people’s services information was estimated for 2021 and 2022. Northern HSC Trust provided information for learning disability, and community care (2021 and 2022 only) categories. South Eastern HSC Trust provided adult services information without older people’s services data as this could not be provided, but no further detail on the included categories of care has been provided. Southern HSC Trust did not provide information on the categories of care included in their information.\n\ni) Number of people who were supported by day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust during the first quarter of 2022\n\nTable 1. Number of attendances at / people who attended day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust from January to March 2022\n\nJanuary – March 2022\tNumber of attendances at day centres1\nBelfast\t20,686\nWestern\t25,843\nNumber of people who attended day centres\nNorthern\t9,558\nSouth Eastern2\t413\nSouthern\t558\n\nSource: Health and Social Care Trusts\n\n1 Belfast and Western HSC Trusts provided the number of attendances at day centres.\n\n2 Older People’s day centre information could not be included in the South Eastern Trust figures as this would require a manual count.\n\nii.a.) Number of people who were supported by day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust during the first quarter of 2021\n\nTable 2. Number of attendances at / people who attended day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust from January to March 2021\n\nJanuary – March 2021\tNumber of attendances at day centres1\nBelfast\t13,789\nWestern\t20,048\nNumber of people who attended day centres\nNorthern\t7,047\nSouth Eastern2\t276\nSouthern\t470\n\nSource: Health and Social Care Trusts\n\n1 Belfast and Western HSC Trusts provided the number of attendances at day centres.\n\n2 Older People’s day centre information could not be included in the South Eastern Trust figures as this would require a manual count.\n\nii.b.) Number of people who were supported by day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust during the first quarter of 2020\n\nTable 3. Number of attendances at / people who attended day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust from January to March 2020\n\nJanuary – March 2020\tNumber of attendances at day centres1\nBelfast\t41,747\nWestern\t32,760\nNumber of people who attended day centres\nNorthern3\t809\nSouth Eastern2\t525\nSouthern\t866\n\nSource: Health and Social Care Trusts\n\n1 Belfast and Western HSC Trusts provided the number of attendances at day centres.\n\n2 Older People’s day centre information could not be included in the South Eastern Trust figures as this would require a manual count.\n\n3 Northern HSC Trust Community Care Division figures for day centre services are not available for 2019 and 2020 as this information was not collected in this format prior to HSC Rebuild / Reset plans. Northern HSC Trust day centre figures for these two years were provided for learning disability day centre services only.\n\nii.c.) Number of people who were supported by day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust during the first quarter of 2019\n\nTable 4. Number of attendances at / people who attended day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust from January to March 2019\n\nJanuary – March 2019\tNumber of attendances at day centres1\nBelfast\t57,282\nWestern\t40,595\nNumber of people who attended day centres\nNorthern3\t811\nSouth Eastern2\t537\nSouthern\t915\n\nSource: Health and Social Care Trusts\n\n1Belfast and Western HSC Trusts provided the number of attendances at day centres.\n\n2 Older People’s day centre information could not be included in the South Eastern Trust figures as this would require a manual count.\n\n3 Northern HSC Trust Community Care Division figures for day centre services are not available for 2019 and 2020 as this information was not collected in this format prior to HSC Rebuild / Reset plans. Northern HSC Trust day centre figures for these two years were provided for learning disability day centre services only.","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold this information centrally and it was requested from the Health and Social Care Trusts. Please find information detailed below.
Please note that the figures provided from the HSC Trusts are compiled from varying categories of care, and some categories of care are only available for some of the years requested. Belfast HSC Trust and Western HSC Trust provided information for mental health, learning disability, older people’s services and physical and sensory disability categories of care, and Western HSC Trust’s older people’s services information was estimated for 2021 and 2022. Northern HSC Trust provided information for learning disability, and community care (2021 and 2022 only) categories. South Eastern HSC Trust provided adult services information without older people’s services data as this could not be provided, but no further detail on the included categories of care has been provided. Southern HSC Trust did not provide information on the categories of care included in their information.
i) Number of people who were supported by day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust during the first quarter of 2022
Table 1. Number of attendances at / people who attended day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust from January to March 2022
| January – March 2022 | Number of attendances at day centres1 |
| Belfast | 20,686 |
| Western | 25,843 |
| Number of people who attended day centres | |
| Northern | 9,558 |
| South Eastern2 | 413 |
| Southern | 558 |
Source: Health and Social Care Trusts
1 Belfast and Western HSC Trusts provided the number of attendances at day centres.
2 Older People’s day centre information could not be included in the South Eastern Trust figures as this would require a manual count.
ii.a.) Number of people who were supported by day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust during the first quarter of 2021
Table 2. Number of attendances at / people who attended day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust from January to March 2021
| January – March 2021 | Number of attendances at day centres1 |
| Belfast | 13,789 |
| Western | 20,048 |
| Number of people who attended day centres | |
| Northern | 7,047 |
| South Eastern2 | 276 |
| Southern | 470 |
Source: Health and Social Care Trusts
1 Belfast and Western HSC Trusts provided the number of attendances at day centres.
2 Older People’s day centre information could not be included in the South Eastern Trust figures as this would require a manual count.
ii.b.) Number of people who were supported by day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust during the first quarter of 2020
Table 3. Number of attendances at / people who attended day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust from January to March 2020
| January – March 2020 | Number of attendances at day centres1 |
| Belfast | 41,747 |
| Western | 32,760 |
| Number of people who attended day centres | |
| Northern3 | 809 |
| South Eastern2 | 525 |
| Southern | 866 |
Source: Health and Social Care Trusts
1 Belfast and Western HSC Trusts provided the number of attendances at day centres.
2 Older People’s day centre information could not be included in the South Eastern Trust figures as this would require a manual count.
3 Northern HSC Trust Community Care Division figures for day centre services are not available for 2019 and 2020 as this information was not collected in this format prior to HSC Rebuild / Reset plans. Northern HSC Trust day centre figures for these two years were provided for learning disability day centre services only.
ii.c.) Number of people who were supported by day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust during the first quarter of 2019
Table 4. Number of attendances at / people who attended day centres in each Health and Social Care Trust from January to March 2019
| January – March 2019 | Number of attendances at day centres1 |
| Belfast | 57,282 |
| Western | 40,595 |
| Number of people who attended day centres | |
| Northern3 | 811 |
| South Eastern2 | 537 |
| Southern | 915 |
Source: Health and Social Care Trusts
1Belfast and Western HSC Trusts provided the number of attendances at day centres.
2 Older People’s day centre information could not be included in the South Eastern Trust figures as this would require a manual count.
3 Northern HSC Trust Community Care Division figures for day centre services are not available for 2019 and 2020 as this information was not collected in this format prior to HSC Rebuild / Reset plans. Northern HSC Trust day centre figures for these two years were provided for learning disability day centre services only.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20241%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373669","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373669"}},{"id":"373668","reference":"AQW 240/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-19","answerBy":"2022-06-07","answered":"2022-08-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health at what capacity day services are currently operating in each Health and Social Care Trust, in percentage terms.","answerText":"Data on day care, short breaks and transport is provided on the Department’s website and is updated on a monthly basis.\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/remobilisation-learning-disability-services\n\nTo improve the level of provision my officials have worked with the Public Health Agency to issue updated guidance, which will enable Trusts to better balance Covid-19 considerations with wider risks to the mental health and wellbeing of service users, families and carers.","answerHtml":"Data on day care, short breaks and transport is provided on the Department’s website and is updated on a monthly basis.
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/remobilisation-learning-disability-services
To improve the level of provision my officials have worked with the Public Health Agency to issue updated guidance, which will enable Trusts to better balance Covid-19 considerations with wider risks to the mental health and wellbeing of service users, families and carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20240%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373668","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373668"}},{"id":"373608","reference":"AQW 195/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-18","answerBy":"2022-06-06","answered":"2022-05-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the social inclusion strategies will be published; and why they have not yet been published.","answerText":"My Department continues to lead a significant programme of work in the co-design of the Executive’s social inclusion strategies.\n\nThe drafting of the strategies is ongoing in readiness for presentation to an incoming Executive. I am committed to the delivery of meaningful strategies.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to lead a significant programme of work in the co-design of the Executive’s social inclusion strategies.
The drafting of the strategies is ongoing in readiness for presentation to an incoming Executive. I am committed to the delivery of meaningful strategies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20195%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373608","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373608"}},{"id":"373602","reference":"AQW 189/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-18","answerBy":"2022-06-06","answered":"2022-05-25","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 local producers license; and when local producers can apply for a license through the courts.","answerText":"Section 10 of the Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act 2021 (‘the Act’), which allows local producers of alcoholic drinks to apply to the courts for a licence to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises, came into effect on 6 April 2022. The first local producer’s licence was granted on 25 April.\n\nSection 11 of the Act, which allows licensed local producers to apply to the courts for a suitability order and authorisation for consumption in the premises, will commence on 1 June 2022.","answerHtml":"Section 10 of the Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act 2021 (‘the Act’), which allows local producers of alcoholic drinks to apply to the courts for a licence to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises, came into effect on 6 April 2022. The first local producer’s licence was granted on 25 April.
Section 11 of the Act, which allows licensed local producers to apply to the courts for a suitability order and authorisation for consumption in the premises, will commence on 1 June 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20189%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373602","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373602"}},{"id":"373601","reference":"AQW 188/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-18","answerBy":"2022-06-06","answered":"2022-05-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what action he has taken to develop a Register of Carers.","answerText":"As you will be aware, I have previously expressed my wish to examine the possibility of developing a more robust central carers register when pressures allow.\n\nCarers registers are maintained by the Health and Social Care Trusts, and serve primarily as a means of sharing information and advice. However, they rely heavily on self-referral and do not therefore provide any true reflection of the actual number of carers in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe consultation on the Reform of Adult Social care includes proposals to develop and maintain a voluntary central register of carers with the aim of supporting improved identification and data availability of carers. I look forward to seeing views on this as the consultation proceeds.\n\nThere are undoubtedly improvements to be made and a more robust list could facilitate the provision of support to carers. We should not however underestimate the challenges of developing, and maintaining, such a comprehensive register and it is likely to be a long term piece of work that would require sustained attention and additional resources.","answerHtml":"As you will be aware, I have previously expressed my wish to examine the possibility of developing a more robust central carers register when pressures allow.
Carers registers are maintained by the Health and Social Care Trusts, and serve primarily as a means of sharing information and advice. However, they rely heavily on self-referral and do not therefore provide any true reflection of the actual number of carers in Northern Ireland.
The consultation on the Reform of Adult Social care includes proposals to develop and maintain a voluntary central register of carers with the aim of supporting improved identification and data availability of carers. I look forward to seeing views on this as the consultation proceeds.
There are undoubtedly improvements to be made and a more robust list could facilitate the provision of support to carers. We should not however underestimate the challenges of developing, and maintaining, such a comprehensive register and it is likely to be a long term piece of work that would require sustained attention and additional resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20188%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373601","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373601"}},{"id":"373600","reference":"AQW 187/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-18","answerBy":"2022-06-06","answered":"2022-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what promotional activities are planned to ensure that claimants are aware of the discretionary support non-repayable grant.","answerText":"An entirely redesigned Finance Support NI Direct campaign page has been developed using stakeholder feedback, enabling users to obtain further information on all aspects of Discretionary Support and Social Fund. The campaign page went live in February 2022 and people visiting the page can make an online claim to Discretionary Support or request a Social Fund form to be issued. The page has seen a significant rise in hits since its redesign.\n\nAwareness sessions have also been conducted with representatives from Housing Executive and their Homelessness Local Area Group which includes many third party organisations as well as people from statutory organisations.\n\nUniversal Credit journals have been updated with a reminder on how to claim Discretionary Support and the Universal Credit Contingency Fund grant if claimants are in need of short term financial support.\n\nAn advertising campaign was recently launched, between 28 February and 31 March 2022, which specifically targeted older people aged 65 and above, promoting awareness of Discretionary Support and how to apply.\n\nPromotion of the Discretionary Support scheme will continue to ensure those in need are fully aware of the help available.","answerHtml":"An entirely redesigned Finance Support NI Direct campaign page has been developed using stakeholder feedback, enabling users to obtain further information on all aspects of Discretionary Support and Social Fund. The campaign page went live in February 2022 and people visiting the page can make an online claim to Discretionary Support or request a Social Fund form to be issued. The page has seen a significant rise in hits since its redesign.
Awareness sessions have also been conducted with representatives from Housing Executive and their Homelessness Local Area Group which includes many third party organisations as well as people from statutory organisations.
Universal Credit journals have been updated with a reminder on how to claim Discretionary Support and the Universal Credit Contingency Fund grant if claimants are in need of short term financial support.
An advertising campaign was recently launched, between 28 February and 31 March 2022, which specifically targeted older people aged 65 and above, promoting awareness of Discretionary Support and how to apply.
Promotion of the Discretionary Support scheme will continue to ensure those in need are fully aware of the help available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20187%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373600","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373600"}},{"id":"373599","reference":"AQW 186/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-18","answerBy":"2022-06-06","answered":"2022-08-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the independent report on the Welfare Mitigation Review will be published.","answerText":"The independent Advisory Panel has provided its final report on the Review of Welfare Mitigations to my Department and this will be published at the earliest opportunity.","answerHtml":"The independent Advisory Panel has provided its final report on the Review of Welfare Mitigations to my Department and this will be published at the earliest opportunity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20186%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373599","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373599"}},{"id":"373518","reference":"AQW 111/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-17","answerBy":"2022-06-01","answered":"2022-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education why the collapsing wall at Portaferry Integrated Primary School has not been fixed.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) Maintenance Service have confirmed that the stone wall remains sectioned off for safety reasons.\n\nCommencement of remedial works on site will be subject to legal agreement between the EA and the adjacent landowner.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) Maintenance Service have confirmed that the stone wall remains sectioned off for safety reasons.
Commencement of remedial works on site will be subject to legal agreement between the EA and the adjacent landowner.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20111%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373518"}},{"id":"373517","reference":"AQW 110/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-17","answerBy":"2022-06-01","answered":"2022-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health why Health and Social Care Trusts have yet to fully reinstate respite and day centre provision for people with disabilities; and what action he is taking to ensure the resumption of full provision of services for people with disabilities.","answerText":"In February 2022, the Chief Social Work Officer wrote to Trusts to outline my decision to remobilise respite services. To date, significant efforts have been made by Trusts to implement the Public Health Agency Pathway to manage risk, while increasing service provision on a phased basis, throughout a period of high community prevalence of Covid-19.\n\nThe latest position reported by Trusts shows that the majority have increased availability in adult day care to at least 70% of pre-pandemic capacity. However, this has not been reflected in the volume of attendances as a number of service users have been unable to attend due to health protection guidance that outlines that close contacts should not attend a Health & Social Care setting for a period of 10 days.\n\nShort Breaks provision across statutory health & social care settings has significantly increased. However, overall capacity has reduced as a number of respite beds available in care homes have been withdrawn by independent sector providers.\n\nTransport continues to be provided on a reduced basis as there is limited scope to increase capacity while adhering to 1m physical distancing guidelines, aligned to recommendations by the World Health Organisation.\n\nWhile it is clear that the Pathway has been an enabler to remobilise services, there remains further adjustments to public health guidance required before services can be fully restore to pre-pandemic levels. Therefore, my officials have written to the PHA asking them to commence an urgent formal review of the Pathway and associated health protection guidelines.\n\nAligned to this process, the Department has requested performance and capacity data across all Trusts, which will be published on the Department’s website in June 2022. I have clearly outlined that this data will be collected and published on a regular basis to monitor remobilisation against rebuild timeframes. Furthermore, I will commit to issuing a periodic communication to all MLAs to outline progress made by the Trusts.\n\nIt is regrettable that services have yet to be fully restored to pre-pandemic capacity and I sincerely apologise to those families that continue to receive a partial service.","answerHtml":"In February 2022, the Chief Social Work Officer wrote to Trusts to outline my decision to remobilise respite services. To date, significant efforts have been made by Trusts to implement the Public Health Agency Pathway to manage risk, while increasing service provision on a phased basis, throughout a period of high community prevalence of Covid-19.
The latest position reported by Trusts shows that the majority have increased availability in adult day care to at least 70% of pre-pandemic capacity. However, this has not been reflected in the volume of attendances as a number of service users have been unable to attend due to health protection guidance that outlines that close contacts should not attend a Health & Social Care setting for a period of 10 days.
Short Breaks provision across statutory health & social care settings has significantly increased. However, overall capacity has reduced as a number of respite beds available in care homes have been withdrawn by independent sector providers.
Transport continues to be provided on a reduced basis as there is limited scope to increase capacity while adhering to 1m physical distancing guidelines, aligned to recommendations by the World Health Organisation.
While it is clear that the Pathway has been an enabler to remobilise services, there remains further adjustments to public health guidance required before services can be fully restore to pre-pandemic levels. Therefore, my officials have written to the PHA asking them to commence an urgent formal review of the Pathway and associated health protection guidelines.
Aligned to this process, the Department has requested performance and capacity data across all Trusts, which will be published on the Department’s website in June 2022. I have clearly outlined that this data will be collected and published on a regular basis to monitor remobilisation against rebuild timeframes. Furthermore, I will commit to issuing a periodic communication to all MLAs to outline progress made by the Trusts.
It is regrettable that services have yet to be fully restored to pre-pandemic capacity and I sincerely apologise to those families that continue to receive a partial service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20110%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373517"}},{"id":"373502","reference":"AQW 95/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-17","answerBy":"2022-06-01","answered":"2022-05-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what provision will be made for children who are unable to get to school to sit their exams as a result of a public transport strike.","answerText":"I have written to the Minister for Infrastructure highlighting the significant impact that a public transport strike will cause to school transport services and particularly the potential disruption for pupils taking public examinations.\n\nWhilst potential contingencies are limited by the nature of such a strike, my Department has developed a scheme whereby the Education Authority (EA) will provide financial support to schools to mitigate costs incurred in providing alternative transport support to pupils at risk of missing public exams due to industrial action. Schools were notified of the scheme in advance of the industrial action that was scheduled to commence on 17th May 2022.","answerHtml":"I have written to the Minister for Infrastructure highlighting the significant impact that a public transport strike will cause to school transport services and particularly the potential disruption for pupils taking public examinations.
Whilst potential contingencies are limited by the nature of such a strike, my Department has developed a scheme whereby the Education Authority (EA) will provide financial support to schools to mitigate costs incurred in providing alternative transport support to pupils at risk of missing public exams due to industrial action. Schools were notified of the scheme in advance of the industrial action that was scheduled to commence on 17th May 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2095%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373502","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373502"}},{"id":"373501","reference":"AQW 94/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-17","answerBy":"2022-06-01","answered":"2022-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many children will not be provided with classroom assistance, as assigned to them as part of their statement, broken down by primary and post-primary provision.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) may make an allocation of additional adult assistance hours to a school to assist staff in meeting the objectives outlined in Part 3 of a child’s Statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN).\n\nThe recruitment of SEN staff within schools is, however, the responsibility of individual Boards of Governors. Neither the Department nor the EA, are therefore able to provide this information.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) may make an allocation of additional adult assistance hours to a school to assist staff in meeting the objectives outlined in Part 3 of a child’s Statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN).
The recruitment of SEN staff within schools is, however, the responsibility of individual Boards of Governors. Neither the Department nor the EA, are therefore able to provide this information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2094%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373501","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373501"}},{"id":"371300","reference":"AQW 30682/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-08","answerBy":"2022-03-24","answered":"2022-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure why the Strangford Ferry was pulled out of operation at short notice on 4 March 2022.","answerText":"The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) approved Safety Management System for the Strangford Ferry requires a minimum crew of four to be on board to sail. On Friday 4 March 2022 at approximately 7.30pm, a situation arose where there were insufficient crew members available for the next scheduled sailing so the ferry had to be taken out of service. Normal service resumed on Saturday morning, 5 March.\n\nManaging essential services during the pandemic continues to present challenges, however please be assured that the whole ferry team are working hard to keep this important transport link operational.","answerHtml":"The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) approved Safety Management System for the Strangford Ferry requires a minimum crew of four to be on board to sail. On Friday 4 March 2022 at approximately 7.30pm, a situation arose where there were insufficient crew members available for the next scheduled sailing so the ferry had to be taken out of service. Normal service resumed on Saturday morning, 5 March.
Managing essential services during the pandemic continues to present challenges, however please be assured that the whole ferry team are working hard to keep this important transport link operational.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030682%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371300","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371300"}},{"id":"371298","reference":"AQW 30680/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-08","answerBy":"2022-03-24","answered":"2022-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission (i) whether the amount permitted for Members' constituency office rent will be reviewed to take account of the increased local market rates being charged by landlords; and (ii) whether the reviewed amounts will be backdated to the start of the new mandate.","answerText":"As noted in the reply to AQW 22266/17-22, at its meeting on 8 July 2021, the Assembly Commission agreed that any new Determination on Members’ allowances would only be published alongside progress of the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill in the next mandate.\n\nTherefore, a review of allowances payable to Members, including the amount of rent payable for a Member’s constituency office will be undertaken once progress has been made on the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill in the next Assembly mandate.\n\nThe review will consider a number of different aspects including market rates for rental payments and also the timing of the implementation of any changes that might be made.","answerHtml":"As noted in the reply to AQW 22266/17-22, at its meeting on 8 July 2021, the Assembly Commission agreed that any new Determination on Members’ allowances would only be published alongside progress of the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill in the next mandate.
Therefore, a review of allowances payable to Members, including the amount of rent payable for a Member’s constituency office will be undertaken once progress has been made on the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill in the next Assembly mandate.
The review will consider a number of different aspects including market rates for rental payments and also the timing of the implementation of any changes that might be made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030680%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371298","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371298"}},{"id":"371074","reference":"AQW 30604/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-07","answerBy":"2022-03-23","answered":"2022-03-27","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, in relation to the commercial removal of shellfish from Strangford Lough, (i) who is responsible for policing this activity; and (ii) for his assessment of the damage it causes to the marine ecosystem.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for compliance and enforcement activities relating to commercial fishing regulations. In Strangford Lough, this includes the Strangford Lough (Sea Fishing Exclusion Zones) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012, which prohibit pot fishing from two zones in Strangford Lough. The target species for pot fishers in Strangford Lough include shellfish such as velvet crab, brown crab, lobster and nephrops. This fishery is operating in accordance with the Strangford Lough Modiolus biogenic reef restoration plan and is not having a detrimental impact on the marine ecosystem.\n\nIntertidal communities in Strangford Lough are in ‘favourable condition’ and do not appear to have been damaged by shellfish gathering. However, some concerns have been raised that periwinkle stocks are declining and that this fishery is not currently regulated by my Department.\n\nTo ensure the hand gathering fishery is not causing damage to marine ecosystems, my Department has been developing potential management measures that are intended to protect intertidal shellfish stocks from unsustainable exploitation and to provide protection for habitats and species that could be damaged or disturbed by intertidal shellfish gathering.\n\nSubject to the outcome of a public consultation, any regulatory measures introduced for intertidal shellfish gathering will be subject to compliance checks, and where necessary, enforcement action by my Department.\n\nAll shellfish, including intertidal shellfish that are marketed for human consumption must comply with the relevant food hygiene regulations. The compliance and enforcement of these regulations is the responsibility of local councils.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for compliance and enforcement activities relating to commercial fishing regulations. In Strangford Lough, this includes the Strangford Lough (Sea Fishing Exclusion Zones) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012, which prohibit pot fishing from two zones in Strangford Lough. The target species for pot fishers in Strangford Lough include shellfish such as velvet crab, brown crab, lobster and nephrops. This fishery is operating in accordance with the Strangford Lough Modiolus biogenic reef restoration plan and is not having a detrimental impact on the marine ecosystem.
Intertidal communities in Strangford Lough are in ‘favourable condition’ and do not appear to have been damaged by shellfish gathering. However, some concerns have been raised that periwinkle stocks are declining and that this fishery is not currently regulated by my Department.
To ensure the hand gathering fishery is not causing damage to marine ecosystems, my Department has been developing potential management measures that are intended to protect intertidal shellfish stocks from unsustainable exploitation and to provide protection for habitats and species that could be damaged or disturbed by intertidal shellfish gathering.
Subject to the outcome of a public consultation, any regulatory measures introduced for intertidal shellfish gathering will be subject to compliance checks, and where necessary, enforcement action by my Department.
All shellfish, including intertidal shellfish that are marketed for human consumption must comply with the relevant food hygiene regulations. The compliance and enforcement of these regulations is the responsibility of local councils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030604%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371074","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371074"}},{"id":"371073","reference":"AQW 30603/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-07","answerBy":"2022-03-23","answered":"2022-03-27","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 the progress on regulation for shellfish harvesting, as recommended by the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute.","answerText":"My Department commissioned the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) to investigate potential regulatory measures that would ensure the harvesting of periwinkles in Strangford Lough was within sustainable limits. The study investigated the potential for a minimum landing size and closed seasons, and has made a number of recommendations.\n\nI am currently considering proposals to seek stakeholder views on the recommendations that AFBI have made.","answerHtml":"My Department commissioned the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) to investigate potential regulatory measures that would ensure the harvesting of periwinkles in Strangford Lough was within sustainable limits. The study investigated the potential for a minimum landing size and closed seasons, and has made a number of recommendations.
I am currently considering proposals to seek stakeholder views on the recommendations that AFBI have made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030603%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371073","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371073"}},{"id":"371072","reference":"AQW 30602/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-07","answerBy":"2022-03-23","answered":"2022-03-27","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 (i) what analysis his Department has carried out on the removal of shellfish along the Whiterock coast by shellfish harvesters; and (ii) what action he will take to prevent further damage being done to this protected marine environment.","answerText":"My Department undertakes monitoring of coastal habitats in Strangford Lough as part of the marine protected area monitoring programme. The closest site to the Whiterock coast is at Mahee Island, and the latest surveys found the ‘intertidal mudflats and sandflat’, and the ‘intertidal rock and underboulder communities’, to be in ‘favourable condition’.\n\nThere is a risk that unregulated intertidal shellfish harvesting could have a detrimental impact on Strangford Lough and other marine protected areas. To address this, my Department has been developing potential regulatory options that are intended to protect intertidal shellfish stocks from unsustainable exploitation and to provide protection for habitats and species that could be damaged or disturbed by intertidal shellfish gathering. I am currently considering these options.","answerHtml":"My Department undertakes monitoring of coastal habitats in Strangford Lough as part of the marine protected area monitoring programme. The closest site to the Whiterock coast is at Mahee Island, and the latest surveys found the ‘intertidal mudflats and sandflat’, and the ‘intertidal rock and underboulder communities’, to be in ‘favourable condition’.
There is a risk that unregulated intertidal shellfish harvesting could have a detrimental impact on Strangford Lough and other marine protected areas. To address this, my Department has been developing potential regulatory options that are intended to protect intertidal shellfish stocks from unsustainable exploitation and to provide protection for habitats and species that could be damaged or disturbed by intertidal shellfish gathering. I am currently considering these options.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030602%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371072","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371072"}},{"id":"371071","reference":"AQW 30601/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-07","answerBy":"2022-03-23","answered":"2022-03-27","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 what progress is being made to create a mandatory license for the commercial extraction of shellfish from the Strangford Lough coastline.","answerText":"Commercial fishing vessels operating in Strangford Lough must have a licence to fish commercially together and an additional restrictive Strangford permit for shellfish fishing using pots. This additional permit was introduced in 2014 and the shellfish species targeted using this method of fishing are velvet crab, brown crab, lobster and nephrops.\n\nMy Department has been developing potential regulatory options for intertidal gathering of shellfish species such as periwinkles. I am currently considering a proposal to introduce a registration system for intertidal shellfish harvesters who operate on a commercial basis.","answerHtml":"Commercial fishing vessels operating in Strangford Lough must have a licence to fish commercially together and an additional restrictive Strangford permit for shellfish fishing using pots. This additional permit was introduced in 2014 and the shellfish species targeted using this method of fishing are velvet crab, brown crab, lobster and nephrops.
My Department has been developing potential regulatory options for intertidal gathering of shellfish species such as periwinkles. I am currently considering a proposal to introduce a registration system for intertidal shellfish harvesters who operate on a commercial basis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030601%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371071","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371071"}},{"id":"371070","reference":"AQW 30600/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-07","answerBy":"2022-03-23","answered":"2022-03-27","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 how many tonnes of shellfish from Strangford Lough were exported from Northern Ireland, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"My Department records the landings of fish and shellfish from licensed fishing vessels and operates an additional restrictive permit scheme to manage the fishing effort in Strangford lough. In addition oysters and mussels are produced for human consumption at licensed aquaculture sites on the lough. Shellfish landings and shellfish aquaculture data for the past 5 years is set out below.\n\nWEIGHT IN TONNES\nYEAR\tPrawns\tBrown Crab\tVelvet Crab\tOyster\tMussels\tLobster\n2017\t9.8\t23.4\t34.3\t92.0\t50.0\t8.6\n2018\t10.4\t29.6\t42.8\t105.0\t50.0\t7.1\n2019\t9.3\t18.2\t40.6\t75.0\t50.0\t11.2\n2020\t12.0\t21.2\t40.2\t140.0\t50.0\t7.1\n2021\t11.4\t8.7\t51.6\t80.0\t50.0\t8.4\n\nMy Department does not currently regulate the intertidal hand gathering of shellfish and therefore does not have records for species such as periwinkles. Potential options for regulating intertidal hand gathering are being developed, including proposals requiring commercial gatherers to complete an activity log, which would include the weight of catch and harvesting location. I am currently considering these options.","answerHtml":"My Department records the landings of fish and shellfish from licensed fishing vessels and operates an additional restrictive permit scheme to manage the fishing effort in Strangford lough. In addition oysters and mussels are produced for human consumption at licensed aquaculture sites on the lough. Shellfish landings and shellfish aquaculture data for the past 5 years is set out below.
| WEIGHT IN TONNES | ||||||
| YEAR | Prawns | Brown Crab | Velvet Crab | Oyster | Mussels | Lobster |
| 2017 | 9.8 | 23.4 | 34.3 | 92.0 | 50.0 | 8.6 |
| 2018 | 10.4 | 29.6 | 42.8 | 105.0 | 50.0 | 7.1 |
| 2019 | 9.3 | 18.2 | 40.6 | 75.0 | 50.0 | 11.2 |
| 2020 | 12.0 | 21.2 | 40.2 | 140.0 | 50.0 | 7.1 |
| 2021 | 11.4 | 8.7 | 51.6 | 80.0 | 50.0 | 8.4 |
My Department does not currently regulate the intertidal hand gathering of shellfish and therefore does not have records for species such as periwinkles. Potential options for regulating intertidal hand gathering are being developed, including proposals requiring commercial gatherers to complete an activity log, which would include the weight of catch and harvesting location. I am currently considering these options.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030600%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371070","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371070"}},{"id":"370890","reference":"AQW 30552/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-04","answerBy":"2022-03-22","answered":"2022-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what action her Department is taking to re-establish pre-pandemic numbers of face to face Personal Independence Payment appeal hearings.","answerText":"My Department continues to adopt a gradual approach to face to face hearings in light of the changing response to the pandemic. This is to protect the health and safety of appellants, many of whom already suffer from compromised health and who may feel compelled to attend the physical hearing they opted for. My Department, in conjunction with colleagues in the Department of Justice continue to seek suitable venues to conduct appeal hearings.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to adopt a gradual approach to face to face hearings in light of the changing response to the pandemic. This is to protect the health and safety of appellants, many of whom already suffer from compromised health and who may feel compelled to attend the physical hearing they opted for. My Department, in conjunction with colleagues in the Department of Justice continue to seek suitable venues to conduct appeal hearings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030552%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370890","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370890"}},{"id":"370888","reference":"AQW 30550/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-04","answerBy":"2022-03-22","answered":"2022-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) how many reports of potholes have been physically checked by DfI Roads on the Ards Peninsula in January and February 2022; and (ii) how many of those potholes have been listed for repair.","answerText":"My Department does not hold or collate information on a local area basis but rather maintains this information on a Roads Section Office basis, the boundaries of which broadly align with the council boundaries.\n\nWhile there were 480 potholes reported by the public during January and February 2022 in the Ards and North Down Council area, my Department does not hold records of inspections and repairs in such a form as to allow direct comparison in this manner. It should also be noted that until the completion of the planned inspections, it will not be known how many reports actually relate to potholes as experience has shown that many such reports are often duplicates of the same defect or relating to different issues entirely or indeed may be the responsibility of third parties.\n\nAll reported defects are inspected by my officials, the majority of which will be during the next routine inspection, and will be actioned for repair if they meet the intervention criteria set out in my Department’s current limited service maintenance policy. Regrettably my Department does not maintain records of potholes reported by the public which have been listed for repair.\n\nIt should be noted that the majority of defects are recorded by officials during routine safety inspections.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold or collate information on a local area basis but rather maintains this information on a Roads Section Office basis, the boundaries of which broadly align with the council boundaries.
While there were 480 potholes reported by the public during January and February 2022 in the Ards and North Down Council area, my Department does not hold records of inspections and repairs in such a form as to allow direct comparison in this manner. It should also be noted that until the completion of the planned inspections, it will not be known how many reports actually relate to potholes as experience has shown that many such reports are often duplicates of the same defect or relating to different issues entirely or indeed may be the responsibility of third parties.
All reported defects are inspected by my officials, the majority of which will be during the next routine inspection, and will be actioned for repair if they meet the intervention criteria set out in my Department’s current limited service maintenance policy. Regrettably my Department does not maintain records of potholes reported by the public which have been listed for repair.
It should be noted that the majority of defects are recorded by officials during routine safety inspections.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030550%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370888","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370888"}},{"id":"370251","reference":"AQW 30376/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-01","answerBy":"2022-03-04","answered":"2022-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how many payments have been made from the Energy Payment Support Scheme; and (ii) when all other eligible individuals will receive the payment.","answerText":"In my statement to the Assembly on Tuesday 01 March I announced that payments for the Energy Payment Support Scheme will begin to reach people’s bank accounts from 10 March 2022.","answerHtml":"In my statement to the Assembly on Tuesday 01 March I announced that payments for the Energy Payment Support Scheme will begin to reach people’s bank accounts from 10 March 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030376%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370251","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370251"}},{"id":"370250","reference":"AQW 30375/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-01","answerBy":"2022-03-16","answered":"2022-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what training is provided to educational psychologists in relation to Tourette’s syndrome, including (i) the impact Tourette's syndrome has on a child; and (ii) the special educational needs the condition creates.","answerText":"Tourette Syndrome is a low incidence Special Educational Need (SEN), therefore the Education Authority’s Educational Psychology Service do not currently provide training to educational psychologists but makes use of psychologists’ specialist knowledge and encourages all staff to develop new skills and knowledge in line with research developments.\n\nThe impact of the condition on the long term outcomes of pupils are dependent on the severity of the condition, as well the quality and type of support a child can access in school.\n\nTourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder demonstrated by motor and phonic tics with onset generally occurring during childhood. Tourette Syndrome and chronic motor tics represent conditions along a continuum of need. The severity of the condition and any co-occurring conditions are linked with the degree of difficulties or challenges a child or young person experiences within school. Awareness among relevant professionals including teachers and parents of potential difficulties is essential when supporting a child with a Tourette Syndrome diagnosis.","answerHtml":"Tourette Syndrome is a low incidence Special Educational Need (SEN), therefore the Education Authority’s Educational Psychology Service do not currently provide training to educational psychologists but makes use of psychologists’ specialist knowledge and encourages all staff to develop new skills and knowledge in line with research developments.
The impact of the condition on the long term outcomes of pupils are dependent on the severity of the condition, as well the quality and type of support a child can access in school.
Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder demonstrated by motor and phonic tics with onset generally occurring during childhood. Tourette Syndrome and chronic motor tics represent conditions along a continuum of need. The severity of the condition and any co-occurring conditions are linked with the degree of difficulties or challenges a child or young person experiences within school. Awareness among relevant professionals including teachers and parents of potential difficulties is essential when supporting a child with a Tourette Syndrome diagnosis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030375%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370250","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370250"}},{"id":"370249","reference":"AQW 30374/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-01","answerBy":"2022-03-16","answered":"2022-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update of the progress on the ban conversion therapy in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I refer the member to my response to AQW 28132 / 17-22.","answerHtml":"I refer the member to my response to AQW 28132 / 17-22.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030374%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370249","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370249"}},{"id":"370247","reference":"AQW 30372/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-01","answerBy":"2022-03-16","answered":"2022-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions she is taking to ensure public money, used for the Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme, is not being abused by fuel suppliers.","answerText":"The Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme is being operated by Bryson Care, an arm of the Bryson Charitable Group. This is not a Department for Communities scheme, this Department has made a contribution of £2 million to the scheme.\n\nAll emergency fuel payments for electricity, gas and oil are used solely to purchase the supply of the fuel; any administrative or delivery costs are not deducted from the £100 payment.\n\nElectricity and gas prices are regulated by the Utility Regulator. The volume of oil that £100 may purchase will vary depending on the day the application is processed. To ensure oil applicants receive the best value for money Bryson Care has appointed an oil broker which uses a range of oil suppliers to identify the most competitive price in the area of the applicant’s residence.","answerHtml":"The Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme is being operated by Bryson Care, an arm of the Bryson Charitable Group. This is not a Department for Communities scheme, this Department has made a contribution of £2 million to the scheme.
All emergency fuel payments for electricity, gas and oil are used solely to purchase the supply of the fuel; any administrative or delivery costs are not deducted from the £100 payment.
Electricity and gas prices are regulated by the Utility Regulator. The volume of oil that £100 may purchase will vary depending on the day the application is processed. To ensure oil applicants receive the best value for money Bryson Care has appointed an oil broker which uses a range of oil suppliers to identify the most competitive price in the area of the applicant’s residence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030372%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370247","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370247"}},{"id":"369641","reference":"AQO 3222/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-24","answerBy":"2022-03-07","answered":"2022-03-07","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when Jobs and Benefits offices will return to pre-pandemic operating levels facilitating face-to-face drop in visits between staff and claimants.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"On 5 May 2021, jobs and benefits offices reopened for people on a one-in, one-out appointment basis. That was extended to multiple appointments in the autumn of last year. Face-to-face services continue to be prioritised for vulnerable groupings: young people aged 18-24; those not engaging using telephone or digital channels; and those who need to verify their identity to make a new claim. Concern about the COVID omicron variant has meant that plans for the wider resumption of services, which include opening digital zones and offering a drop-in service, have been put temporarily on hold. My Department, in conjunction with other Departments, is considering the COVID-19 measures that are in place throughout its workplaces, in line with Public Health Agency (PHA) advice. While face-to-face services continue to be constrained by measures such as social distancing, jobs and benefits offices are using other service delivery channels, such as video, telephone and digital, to ensure that people requiring assistance are supported."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"I thank the Minister for her response. Minister, on, I think, 24 February, you announced the launch of labour market partnerships (LMPs) for council areas. Can you confirm how those new labour market partnerships will work with our jobs and benefits offices?"},{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"Labour market partnerships are a new approach, working through the 11 councils. Rather than have just regional programmes, LMPs are tailored to meet the needs of each council area. I recently visited Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon (ABC) Borough Council, which was the first to undertake the programme and put forward its proposals. Councils will meet regularly as part of a regional group that will tie in all local labour market partnerships directly with the Department. The LMPs will have ongoing engagement and liaison with the Department, and not just with jobs and benefits offices but across the Department. Up to now, there has been really good work, for example, in the ABC council area, where there was an identified shortage of HGV drivers due to Brexit and other issues. It was able to run a programme to start to recruit people to fill a gap in that council area. That is one example. We are working with the remaining councils to get their action plans and priorities in place. That is really about bringing the private, public and community and voluntary sectors together to respond to the needs of individuals who are looking for work or to progress and the needs of employers with regard to where employment opportunities will be over coming years. It is an exciting programme, and we look forward to seeing the roll-out and the impact that it will have at a local level."},{"speaker":"Ms Dolan","text":"Following on from your last response, Minister, can you give an additional update on the measures that you are taking to help to create employment opportunities?"},{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"As I said, we are rolling out those new labour market partnership approaches. That is really where they will operate: in each of the council areas. The councils will come together through those partnerships, working with the private sector and the community and voluntary sectors to develop action plans to meet the employment and economic needs of their boroughs. As I said, some really good programmes are beginning to run in the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon area, which I went to. Of course, other councils are coming forward with their proposed action plans, which we will look to implement as soon as possible. Obviously, we continue to look at other employment programmes, even through the adviser discretion fund, where I have supported upfront childcare costs. We are now seeing more and more families availing themselves of that opportunity to allow them to access employment. Recently, I launched a £10 million skills and employment fund targeted at the creative industries, the culture, arts and heritage sectors and the community and voluntary sector that will see upfront employment opportunities for the next three years for people from those sectors. Applications have been going really well, with organisations in the community applying to create hundreds of posts."},{"speaker":"Mr Durkan","text":"I place on record my party's gratitude to the hard-working staff in jobs and benefits offices. It is a stressful job at the best of times, but it is fair to say that the past couple of years have been unprecedented in terms not just of demand but of people's desperation and the situations that they have found themselves in and needing help to get out of. Minister, for clarity, can you outline for the House what support is provided by jobs and benefits offices to benefit claimants, such as those in receipt of universal credit (UC), who are not computer-literate to ensure that they are not disadvantaged by the online system?"},{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"There is practical hands-on support from work coaches who work directly with individuals to go through all their needs with regard to processing their benefit claims or maintaining the benefit that they may be on. They also help them with interview skills and writing applications. Obviously, there was the Job Start programme, where we gave 25 hours per week of practical experience to young people up to the age of 25 to test out employment sectors that they were interested in working in. As I said, we offer upfront childcare costs through the adviser discretion fund. We can cover other costs — clothing, for example. That may be available for people who want to go to interviews. At the minute, we are looking to continue to expand the adviser discretion fund, for example, to look at the whole issue of digital connectivity and ways in which we can support those who are unemployed or looking for work at the moment with digital inclusion. I hope to make an announcement on those issues and enhancements in due course."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203222%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369641","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2022-03-07&docID=370420#AQO%203222/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369641"}},{"id":"369099","reference":"AQW 30046/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-21","answerBy":"2022-03-08","answered":"2022-02-24","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 being taken forward to establish an online applications portal through which Personal Assistant Carers can make a direct, individual application for their Special Recognition Payment.","answerText":"Personal Assistants (PAs) employed through the use of Direct Payments from Health and Social Care Trusts or payments from the Independent Living Fund or Thalidomide Health Grant are eligible for the recognition payment.\n\nEligibility to the scheme will apply to adult Personal Assistants provided they were employed for a continuous 4 week period between 17 March 2020 and 31 January 2021. Those who were absent due to shielding, on sick leave, on maternity, paternity, adoption leave, or furloughed will be treated as though they were employed for a continuous 4 week period. PAs who have since left or retired, who worked at least a 4 week continuous period are also eligible.\n\nUrgent work is currently being taken forward to establish an online applications portal through which PAs can make a direct, individual application for their Special Recognition Payment.\n\nSubject to verification and eligibility checks, payment will be made directly to the PA’s personal bank account. A suite of FAQs will be provided on the online portal to assist with the process and a helpline will also be provided to assist those for example who do not have access to the internet.\n\nA FAQ on the special recognition payment has been published on the Department’s website and is available at the following link;\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs\n\nFurther updates will be provided on timing in due course.","answerHtml":"Personal Assistants (PAs) employed through the use of Direct Payments from Health and Social Care Trusts or payments from the Independent Living Fund or Thalidomide Health Grant are eligible for the recognition payment.
Eligibility to the scheme will apply to adult Personal Assistants provided they were employed for a continuous 4 week period between 17 March 2020 and 31 January 2021. Those who were absent due to shielding, on sick leave, on maternity, paternity, adoption leave, or furloughed will be treated as though they were employed for a continuous 4 week period. PAs who have since left or retired, who worked at least a 4 week continuous period are also eligible.
Urgent work is currently being taken forward to establish an online applications portal through which PAs can make a direct, individual application for their Special Recognition Payment.
Subject to verification and eligibility checks, payment will be made directly to the PA’s personal bank account. A suite of FAQs will be provided on the online portal to assist with the process and a helpline will also be provided to assist those for example who do not have access to the internet.
A FAQ on the special recognition payment has been published on the Department’s website and is available at the following link;
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs
Further updates will be provided on timing in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030046%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369099","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369099"}},{"id":"369098","reference":"AQW 30045/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-21","answerBy":"2022-03-08","answered":"2022-02-24","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 in each Health and Social Care Trust in receipt of the Independent Living Fund in each of the last ten years.","answerText":"This information was not held centrally, so the information was requested from the Independent Living Fund Scotland. Information can only be provided from July 2015.\n\nTable 1a: Number of people in receipt of the Independent Living Fund 2015- 2018\n\nHSC Trust\tJuly 2015\tApril 2016\tApril 2017\tApril 2018\nBelfast\t112\t107\t100\t97\nNorthern\t97\t93\t87\t81\nSouth Eastern\t75\t70\t64\t62\nSouthern\t142\t134\t122\t112\nWestern\t168\t157\t148\t134\nNorthern Ireland\t594\t561\t521\t486\n\nTable 1b: Number of people in receipt of the Independent Living Fund 2019- 2022\n\nHSC Trust\tApril 2019\tApril 2020\tApril 2021\tFebruary 2022\nBelfast\t96\t89\t87\t85\nNorthern\t76\t69\t64\t62\nSouth Eastern\t59\t56\t55\t52\nSouthern\t104\t98\t91\t85\nWestern\t124\t113\t106\t100\nNorthern Ireland\t459\t425\t403\t384","answerHtml":"This information was not held centrally, so the information was requested from the Independent Living Fund Scotland. Information can only be provided from July 2015.
Table 1a: Number of people in receipt of the Independent Living Fund 2015- 2018
| HSC Trust | July 2015 | April 2016 | April 2017 | April 2018 |
| Belfast | 112 | 107 | 100 | 97 |
| Northern | 97 | 93 | 87 | 81 |
| South Eastern | 75 | 70 | 64 | 62 |
| Southern | 142 | 134 | 122 | 112 |
| Western | 168 | 157 | 148 | 134 |
| Northern Ireland | 594 | 561 | 521 | 486 |
Table 1b: Number of people in receipt of the Independent Living Fund 2019- 2022
| HSC Trust | April 2019 | April 2020 | April 2021 | February 2022 |
| Belfast | 96 | 89 | 87 | 85 |
| Northern | 76 | 69 | 64 | 62 |
| South Eastern | 59 | 56 | 55 | 52 |
| Southern | 104 | 98 | 91 | 85 |
| Western | 124 | 113 | 106 | 100 |
| Northern Ireland | 459 | 425 | 403 | 384 |
My Department provides funding to Family Fund specifically to provide grant support for families in NI on low incomes who are raising disabled or seriously ill children aged 17 or under. Positive outcomes are achieved for the disabled children, and for the wider family including the child’s parents and/or carers. Family Fund also operate a smaller fund called 'Your Opportunity' which is a UK-wide grant scheme which can support disabled young adults aged 18-24. Family Fund is seeking to expand this scheme subject to securing additional sources of funding. My Department provided funding of £2.072m to Family Fund in 2021/22, including an additional £500k to help families with a disabled or seriously ill child cope with the challenges they faced during the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030043%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369096"}},{"id":"368862","reference":"AQO 3210/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-17","answerBy":"2022-03-01","answered":"2022-03-01","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 what progress his Department has made on the development of biodiversity programmes across schools since January 2020.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Poots","text":"Our young people are the key to safeguarding our environment and tackling the biodiversity crisis. Acknowledging that, DAERA funds Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful to deliver the Eco-Schools programme in Northern Ireland. That highly successful endeavour makes environmental awareness and action an intrinsic part of the life and ethos of our schools, with a focus on practical, positive environmental behavioural change. Since 2020, Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful has progressed two programmes that focus on biodiversity in schools through the development of school garden projects. The productive biodiversity gardens programme, in partnership with Radius Housing, has involved 16 primary schools to date, and the upcoming stage will involve a further 23 primary schools. The productive outdoor learning gardens programme is delivered in partnership with Danske Bank and has created an outdoor learning space in 11 schools, with spaces at a further 11 to be developed. Work is also under way to support the development of a new GCSE module on biodiversity recovery, and biodiversity was listed as one of the three key topics in nearly half of the most recent tranche of Green Flag applications, thus showing the importance that our young people place on biodiversity. The tackling plastic project, in partnership with Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, aims to raise awareness of the problem of single-use plastics and to provide support to reduce consumption. All schools here have been given resources on plastic in marine environments, and school workshops have been delivered to complete single-use plastic audits and action plans to help them reduce consumption. Additionally, 11 webinars were delivered, focusing on tackling single-use plastics, and 75 schools have signed the Plastic Promise, making a commitment to reduce single-use plastics at school and at home. In 2021-22, my Department provided funding to the Lyric Theatre to continue the delivery of a short performance piece on waste prevention and plastic pollution. That will be performed to an audience of over 3,000 Key Stage 2 pupils and will offer children solutions that they can easily understand and undertake. The competition on plastic in schools, which is delivered in partnership with Queen's University, the Department of Education and Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, gives pupils an opportunity to win monetary prizes for work on investigating the use and disposal of single-use plastics in their schools. The rural pollinator scheme —"},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"The Minister's time is up."},{"speaker":"Mr Poots","text":"OK, thank you, Mr Speaker."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Thank you very much to the Minister for that. I am sorry you were cut off in full flow. Pupils from local schools in my area have been out beach walking in the past few weeks. In the area of biodiversity, over 2,000 types of marine species live in Strangford lough. What progress has the Minister's Department made during the mandate to protect important marine life and their habitats?"},{"speaker":"Mr Poots","text":"We are doing a key piece of work on marine protected areas (MPAs). We are hoping to deliver that in 2024 in conjunction with the development of a blue-carbon policy. We can see the evident benefits of investing in and protecting our seas, which contain a third of our biodiversity, while at the same time ensuring that the people who live and work in those places can continue to enjoy that habitat and earn a living off it. We have been looking at the moorings for yachts in Strangford lough and how we can ensure that they do not cause damage to key parts of the seabed. Therefore, pieces of work are already taking place in Strangford lough."},{"speaker":"Miss Reilly","text":"A huge amount of engagement with young people on this issue in particular is carried out by groups such as the Belfast Hills Partnership, which launched its Wild Youth programme early last month. What engagement does the Department have with groups such as the Belfast Hills Partnership when it comes to supporting campaigns for young people?"},{"speaker":"Mr Poots","text":"Recently, we supported the acquisition of a substantial tract of land in the Belfast Hills for the Woodland Trust. We now have further support going to the National Trust for it to acquire land. All of that land will become accessible to the public and be planted out and used in a way that supports biodiversity in the Belfast hills and creates access for the young people who live in the area and, indeed, people who visit the area."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"Minister, do you agree that farmers play a vital role in managing our natural environment and encouraging biodiversity, and that without their work there would be much greater land abandonment in Northern Ireland? Do you further agree that farmers are part of the solution to our climate issues rather than part of the problem, as some in the House would suggest?"},{"speaker":"Mr Poots","text":"I thank the Member for raising that point, because land abandonment is a significant issue. It was a significant issue a number of years ago in Scotland when many crofters left the land, and a consequence of the wilding that took place after that was less biodiversity. People need to wake up to the fact that managed land can improve biodiversity and that wilding land often leads to less biodiversity. Farmers are keen to engage in all these things. They are keen to ensure that they improve biodiversity on their land. We see that in the uptake of environmental farming and other schemes whereby farmers are out planting trees and hedges and putting in protections for waterways and so forth. A lot of work is going on in the farming community, and there is a real desire to do more."},{"speaker":"Dr Aiken","text":"I thank the Minister for his answers. I declare an interest as a governor at an excellent primary school, Kilbride Central Primary School. We have an election, so I thought that I would mention that. One of the big issues that people raise with us is this: we want to do some planting of trees but are finding it enormously difficult to source trees because of the problems that we have with the protocol. What can we do to sort that ridiculous situation out?"},{"speaker":"Mr Poots","text":"First, I am delighted that Kilbride Central Primary School, the excellent primary school that the Member mentioned, is desirous to do that. I would encourage it to apply for the rural community pollinator scheme. We are making £1·51 million available to up to 183 applicants. It would be good if that school were one of them. The Member raised a political issue that needs to be resolved between the UK Government, which introduced the protocol, and the European Union in a way that protects the European Union's single market and the single market between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Both are obtainable, and the European Union, in particular, needs to recognise the problems that it is causing and the reality that it will achieve what nobody else has been capable of achieving: the grinding to a halt of the political aspect of the peace process in Northern Ireland. That will be on the hands of the European Union if it chooses to dig in its heels and not cooperate."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203210%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368862","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2022-03-01&docID=369445#AQO%203210/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368862"}},{"id":"370166","reference":"AQO 3204/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-17","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-28","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 operation of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021.","answerText":"The Domestic Abuse offence came into operation on Monday 21st February.\n\nThe offence closes a gap in the current law and ensures that protection is not limited to physically violent behaviour, as at present.\n\nIt sends a clear message that domestic abuse in all its forms, both physical and non-physical, is wrong and will not be tolerated.\n\nA wide range of work has also been undertaken to supplement the introduction of the new offence, including producing an eLearning package developed in conjunction with voluntary sector partners; a new public facing digital awareness raising tool; and a multi-media advertising campaign that will encourage reporting and signpost people to support services.\n\nIn relation to family proceedings, courts hearing applications for residence or contact orders in respect of a child will now be required to have specific regard to the conviction of the party applying for the order for a domestic abuse offence involving the child. Work is ongoing to implement the other family justice provisions in the Act that will support victims of domestic abuse to give their best evidence.\n\nSection 28 of the Domestic Abuse Act, which provides a waiver for the means test for legal aid for victims of domestic abuse who need to respond to Article 8 Children Order applications brought by their abusive partner, came into effect on 22 February 2022.\n\nMy Department is currently developing the report required by section 29 of the Act. The report will set out additional proposals to reduce the financial impact of Article 8 proceedings for victims of domestic abuse.","answerHtml":"The Domestic Abuse offence came into operation on Monday 21st February.
The offence closes a gap in the current law and ensures that protection is not limited to physically violent behaviour, as at present.
It sends a clear message that domestic abuse in all its forms, both physical and non-physical, is wrong and will not be tolerated.
A wide range of work has also been undertaken to supplement the introduction of the new offence, including producing an eLearning package developed in conjunction with voluntary sector partners; a new public facing digital awareness raising tool; and a multi-media advertising campaign that will encourage reporting and signpost people to support services.
In relation to family proceedings, courts hearing applications for residence or contact orders in respect of a child will now be required to have specific regard to the conviction of the party applying for the order for a domestic abuse offence involving the child. Work is ongoing to implement the other family justice provisions in the Act that will support victims of domestic abuse to give their best evidence.
Section 28 of the Domestic Abuse Act, which provides a waiver for the means test for legal aid for victims of domestic abuse who need to respond to Article 8 Children Order applications brought by their abusive partner, came into effect on 22 February 2022.
My Department is currently developing the report required by section 29 of the Act. The report will set out additional proposals to reduce the financial impact of Article 8 proceedings for victims of domestic abuse.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203204%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370166","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370166"}},{"id":"367882","reference":"AQW 29631/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-11","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how her Department will ensure its policies and strategies align with the Green Growth framework to drive positive environmental impacts for Northern Ireland; and how this will be measured.","answerText":"I have been working with Executive colleagues to agree a Green Growth Strategy. A draft version of this closed for public consultation on 21 December 2021. As part of this strategy, a Green Growth framework will be developed to understand what work needs to be undertaken and how impact will be measured. My Department will continue to work with officials in other departments to ensure that infrastructure policies and strategies align with targets to be set out in the Green Growth framework, other Executive strategies and any future climate change legislation.","answerHtml":"I have been working with Executive colleagues to agree a Green Growth Strategy. A draft version of this closed for public consultation on 21 December 2021. As part of this strategy, a Green Growth framework will be developed to understand what work needs to be undertaken and how impact will be measured. My Department will continue to work with officials in other departments to ensure that infrastructure policies and strategies align with targets to be set out in the Green Growth framework, other Executive strategies and any future climate change legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029631%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367882","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367882"}},{"id":"367881","reference":"AQW 29630/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-11","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how his Department will ensure its policies and strategies align with the Green Growth framework to drive positive environmental impacts for Northern Ireland; and how this will be measured.","answerText":"My Department will consider the 10 Executive Commitments in the draft Green Growth Strategy which provide an overarching framework to support the delivery of climate action by bringing together existing government strategies. We will collaborate with other departments, the wider public sector, and relevant stakeholders.\n\nProgress will be measured in line with Executive Commitment number 10, through the agreed monitoring frameworks.","answerHtml":"My Department will consider the 10 Executive Commitments in the draft Green Growth Strategy which provide an overarching framework to support the delivery of climate action by bringing together existing government strategies. We will collaborate with other departments, the wider public sector, and relevant stakeholders.
Progress will be measured in line with Executive Commitment number 10, through the agreed monitoring frameworks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029630%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367881","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367881"}},{"id":"367880","reference":"AQW 29629/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-11","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how his Department will ensure its policies and strategies align with the Green Growth framework to drive positive environmental impacts for Northern Ireland; and how this will be measured.","answerText":"My Department is putting Green Growth at the heart of our policies – this is reflected in the Green Growth targets in my Department’s Business Plan.\n\nThe Department of Finance has a key role to play in enabling Green Growth through its commissioning frameworks including procurement, guidance and budget allocation/alignment. DoF’s role in respect of wider Building Regulations, management of the NICS estate, including the introduction of regional hubs to reduce journey times and associated emissions, will also help deliver the greenhouse gas emission targets by 2050.\n\nThe Draft Budget 2022-25 contained proposed allocations of some £304 million of capital for Green Growth over the three year budget period. However, in the absence of an Executive, a final Budget cannot be agreed.","answerHtml":"My Department is putting Green Growth at the heart of our policies – this is reflected in the Green Growth targets in my Department’s Business Plan.
The Department of Finance has a key role to play in enabling Green Growth through its commissioning frameworks including procurement, guidance and budget allocation/alignment. DoF’s role in respect of wider Building Regulations, management of the NICS estate, including the introduction of regional hubs to reduce journey times and associated emissions, will also help deliver the greenhouse gas emission targets by 2050.
The Draft Budget 2022-25 contained proposed allocations of some £304 million of capital for Green Growth over the three year budget period. However, in the absence of an Executive, a final Budget cannot be agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029629%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367880","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367880"}},{"id":"367879","reference":"AQW 29628/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-11","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to outline his definition of Green Growth.","answerText":"Green Growth is not a new concept. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has led the way for some time.\n\nThe draft Green Growth Strategy, as agreed for consultation at the Executive on 21 October, defines Green Growth as using the move from a high to a low greenhouse gas emissions economy to improve people’s quality of life through green jobs and a clean environment.\n\nMy Department is putting Green Growth at the heart of our policies – this is reflected in the Green Growth targets in my Department’s Business Plan.","answerHtml":"Green Growth is not a new concept. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has led the way for some time.
The draft Green Growth Strategy, as agreed for consultation at the Executive on 21 October, defines Green Growth as using the move from a high to a low greenhouse gas emissions economy to improve people’s quality of life through green jobs and a clean environment.
My Department is putting Green Growth at the heart of our policies – this is reflected in the Green Growth targets in my Department’s Business Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029628%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367879","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367879"}},{"id":"367878","reference":"AQW 29627/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-11","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline her definition of Green Growth.","answerText":"The Minister for the Environment, Agriculture and Rural Affairs has been leading the work on development of the Executive’s Green Growth Strategy, a draft version of this closed for public consultation on 21 December 2021. The definition of Green Growth as provided by this draft strategy is “Green Growth means using the move from a high to a low greenhouse gas emissions economy to improve people’s quality of life through green jobs and a clean environment.”","answerHtml":"The Minister for the Environment, Agriculture and Rural Affairs has been leading the work on development of the Executive’s Green Growth Strategy, a draft version of this closed for public consultation on 21 December 2021. The definition of Green Growth as provided by this draft strategy is “Green Growth means using the move from a high to a low greenhouse gas emissions economy to improve people’s quality of life through green jobs and a clean environment.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029627%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367878","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367878"}},{"id":"367345","reference":"AQW 29477/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-09","answerBy":"2022-02-24","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether the Education Authority provides liability insurance cover for a school, where a child with special education needs is injured while their full-time one-to-one classroom assistant had been instructed to work elsewhere at the time of the incident.","answerText":"As part of the schools’ funding arrangements, Controlled, Catholic Maintained and Other Maintained schools are covered by the Education Authority’s self-insurance arrangements. A Voluntary Grammar or Grant Maintained Integrated school is responsible for its own commercial insurance arrangements, the costs of which will be met from its Common Funding Formula allocation (i.e. specifically through the Voluntary Grammar/Grant Maintained Integrated Administrative Costs Factor). These insurance arrangements apply to all situations, including the circumstance described in this question.","answerHtml":"As part of the schools’ funding arrangements, Controlled, Catholic Maintained and Other Maintained schools are covered by the Education Authority’s self-insurance arrangements. A Voluntary Grammar or Grant Maintained Integrated school is responsible for its own commercial insurance arrangements, the costs of which will be met from its Common Funding Formula allocation (i.e. specifically through the Voluntary Grammar/Grant Maintained Integrated Administrative Costs Factor). These insurance arrangements apply to all situations, including the circumstance described in this question.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029477%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367345","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367345"}},{"id":"367343","reference":"AQW 29475/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-09","answerBy":"2022-02-24","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many children have Tourette's Syndrome included in their statement of special education needs, broken down by (i) primary; and (ii) post-primary schools, for the last three years.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) cannot provide the requested information as this would require a manual check of all statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN) across the specified three-year timeframe.\n\nTourette’s Syndrome is not a condition listed under the Department’s SEN and Medical Categories and therefore any child or young person with this condition would be recorded under the category of ‘Other Medical Condition/ Syndrome’ on the EA’s Management Information System since 2019.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) cannot provide the requested information as this would require a manual check of all statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN) across the specified three-year timeframe.
Tourette’s Syndrome is not a condition listed under the Department’s SEN and Medical Categories and therefore any child or young person with this condition would be recorded under the category of ‘Other Medical Condition/ Syndrome’ on the EA’s Management Information System since 2019.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029475%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367343","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367343"}},{"id":"367342","reference":"AQW 29474/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-09","answerBy":"2022-02-24","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) what training in Tourette Syndrome is provided to educational psychologists; and (ii) how often is this training updated.","answerText":"Tourette Syndrome is a low incidence Special Educational Need (SEN) and therefore the Education Authority’s (EA) Educational Psychology Service currently do not provide Whole Service Training as it has not been a priority for schools. Individual Educational Psychologists (EP) however, are able to provide schools with advice, support and training should they raise concerns around a specific SEN or medical condition and where schools feel they are not fully equipped to support a specific changing need, such as Tourette Syndrome.\n\nEach school has a named EP who works closely with their school’s Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCo) and Pastoral Leads to determine how best they can provide support, and SENCos should raise any concerns with their EP as part of a consultation process.","answerHtml":"Tourette Syndrome is a low incidence Special Educational Need (SEN) and therefore the Education Authority’s (EA) Educational Psychology Service currently do not provide Whole Service Training as it has not been a priority for schools. Individual Educational Psychologists (EP) however, are able to provide schools with advice, support and training should they raise concerns around a specific SEN or medical condition and where schools feel they are not fully equipped to support a specific changing need, such as Tourette Syndrome.
Each school has a named EP who works closely with their school’s Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCo) and Pastoral Leads to determine how best they can provide support, and SENCos should raise any concerns with their EP as part of a consultation process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029474%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367342","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367342"}},{"id":"367341","reference":"AQW 29473/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-09","answerBy":"2022-02-24","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education why classroom assistants, who are employed to provide one-to-one support for children with a statement of special education needs, are being redeployed within schools for other tasks.","answerText":"The deployment of staff within a school is entirely a matter for the Board of Governors. Where a child has a statement of special educational needs and is allocated a specified number of hours of support, schools must ensure that the child is provided with this level of support. The Education Authority provides funding to schools to enable this provision to be implemented.\n\nIf a family has concerns about the level of support provided to their child, they can ask the school to hold an early annual review, or an additional review, to discuss the provision in place. A member of the Education Authority’s Statutory Assessment and Review Service would be happy to attend any such meeting.","answerHtml":"The deployment of staff within a school is entirely a matter for the Board of Governors. Where a child has a statement of special educational needs and is allocated a specified number of hours of support, schools must ensure that the child is provided with this level of support. The Education Authority provides funding to schools to enable this provision to be implemented.
If a family has concerns about the level of support provided to their child, they can ask the school to hold an early annual review, or an additional review, to discuss the provision in place. A member of the Education Authority’s Statutory Assessment and Review Service would be happy to attend any such meeting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029473%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367341","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367341"}},{"id":"367224","reference":"AQW 29401/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-08","answerBy":"2022-02-23","answered":"2022-02-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure why Tourette’s Syndrome is not recognised as a condition that can access a Blue Badge.","answerText":"No individual medical condition is recognised as a condition for which a Blue Badge can be awarded, rather it is how that medical condition affects the applicant’s mobility that is taken into consideration when assessing eligibility for a Blue Badge.\n\nTourette’s Syndrome would be considered to be a “hidden disability”, and could be considered under Section C3 of the Blue Badge application form. This enables a Blue Badge application to be submitted for those people with hidden disabilities, and it takes into consideration those who may be at risk of harming their own health and safety, or that of another person, or are unable to plan and undertake a journey without another person’s assistance.\n\nFor such applications, the Department asks the applicant’s GP to complete a mobility questionnaire and confirm that the applicant is unable to be left alone, e.g. needs the physical support of another person or that they are unable to understand common dangers outdoors and may present as a danger to themselves or others.","answerHtml":"No individual medical condition is recognised as a condition for which a Blue Badge can be awarded, rather it is how that medical condition affects the applicant’s mobility that is taken into consideration when assessing eligibility for a Blue Badge.
Tourette’s Syndrome would be considered to be a “hidden disability”, and could be considered under Section C3 of the Blue Badge application form. This enables a Blue Badge application to be submitted for those people with hidden disabilities, and it takes into consideration those who may be at risk of harming their own health and safety, or that of another person, or are unable to plan and undertake a journey without another person’s assistance.
For such applications, the Department asks the applicant’s GP to complete a mobility questionnaire and confirm that the applicant is unable to be left alone, e.g. needs the physical support of another person or that they are unable to understand common dangers outdoors and may present as a danger to themselves or others.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029401%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367224","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367224"}},{"id":"367222","reference":"AQW 29399/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-08","answerBy":"2022-02-23","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many doctors are employed in the Health Service with the specialist neurological training to diagnose and treat Tourette’s; and how often is this training updated.","answerText":"In line with NICE guidelines, diagnosis of Tourette’s does not require specialist training; it is a symptoms-based diagnosis.\n\nHowever, there are 10 Consultant Neurologists and 1 Consultant Psychiatrist across the Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland with sub-specialty expertise in movement disorders or training in Tourette’s as part of their Certificate of Completion of Training.\n\nAll Neurology Consultants engage in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and education, which can include movement disorders, including Tics and Tourette’s.\n\nTourette’s syndrome is usually diagnosed in paediatric services as, in most cases, symptoms begin under the age of 18 years. CAMHS medical staff attend CPD specific events on an annual basis, some of which will cover Tic Disorders and their management, including specific pharmacological management through attending the British Association for Psychopharmacology course.","answerHtml":"In line with NICE guidelines, diagnosis of Tourette’s does not require specialist training; it is a symptoms-based diagnosis.
However, there are 10 Consultant Neurologists and 1 Consultant Psychiatrist across the Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland with sub-specialty expertise in movement disorders or training in Tourette’s as part of their Certificate of Completion of Training.
All Neurology Consultants engage in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and education, which can include movement disorders, including Tics and Tourette’s.
Tourette’s syndrome is usually diagnosed in paediatric services as, in most cases, symptoms begin under the age of 18 years. CAMHS medical staff attend CPD specific events on an annual basis, some of which will cover Tic Disorders and their management, including specific pharmacological management through attending the British Association for Psychopharmacology course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029399%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367222","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367222"}},{"id":"367221","reference":"AQW 29398/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-08","answerBy":"2022-02-23","answered":"2022-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many people in each Health and Social Care Trust are awaiting assessment for Tourette’s.","answerText":"Data on waiting lists for Tourette’s syndrome assessments specifically is not available.","answerHtml":"Data on waiting lists for Tourette’s syndrome assessments specifically is not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029398%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367221"}},{"id":"367220","reference":"AQW 29397/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-08","answerBy":"2022-02-23","answered":"2022-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many people have been diagnosed with Tourette’s in each Health and Social Care Trust in each year from 2011/2012 to 2021/2022.","answerText":"The requested information is not available.","answerHtml":"The requested information is not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029397%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367220","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367220"}},{"id":"366723","reference":"AQO 3137/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-03","answerBy":"2022-02-23","answered":"2022-02-23","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 Executive Childcare Strategy.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Miss McIlveen","text":"Work on the development of the Executive's childcare strategy had to be paused at the beginning of the pandemic in order to focus all our efforts on providing emergency financial support to the childcare sector. That financial support was critical to ensuring the survival of many childcare providers and to underpin economic recovery. Since April 2020, almost £40 million has been allocated to support the childcare sector. Despite work on emergency support schemes continuing, my Department began to re-engage with stakeholders at the end of last year on what a longer-term Executive childcare strategy should address. A strategic insight programme took place between October and December 2021, which involved sessions with parents, providers and MLAs and a two-day intensive insight lab with key stakeholders. That has produced a lot of material, which we are assessing. Further focused engagement with stakeholders on key themes is also likely to be required. In addition to that, subject to available resources, we plan to commission an independent review of childcare services in Northern Ireland. That will provide evidence on a range of issues, including the cost of childcare for families, supply and demand issues and the challenges in delivering childcare. All that will be essential in informing the direction of the strategy. We had hoped that, by this stage, the emergency schemes to support the sector through the pandemic would no longer be required and that staff resources could be focused solely on the development of the childcare strategy, but, unfortunately, that has not happened. With the emergence of the omicron variant, there has been a requirement to turn our attention again to emergency COVID-19 support funding, and that will inevitably have an impact on the pace of progress on the strategy. However, I remain committed to doing everything possible to build the case and bring forward costed options. The work that I have outlined will provide the evidence on which informed decisions can be made. Ultimately, it will be for a future Executive to agree what commitments the strategy should contain and to provide the funding to deliver them."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"I thank the Minister. I am sure that she is as disappointed as I am that she has not been able to progress the strategy any further, primarily, of course, because of the pandemic. Given that the strategy is not yet ready, does that mean that the childcare strategy budget cannot be allocated or accounted for in the three-year Budget period?"},{"speaker":"Miss McIlveen","text":"I thank the Member for her question. We will go through a series of processes in order to get to a draft strategy. As I outlined in my initial answer, the team was redirected to other work in the last couple of years, and, unfortunately, we are not in a position to present a draft strategy. I had hoped that we would have that completed by autumn this year, but, given the consequences of omicron and so on, that timeline will have shifted. We will certainly not be in a position to consult on the strategy at that point, and, therefore, any discussion in relation to any budget that will be required is a moot point at this stage."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Dowd","text":"Is it not better to be honest with the sector and with those families who are waiting on a childcare strategy and say that it is going nowhere? The DUP's decision to walk out of the joint First Ministers' office, the fact that there is no functioning Executive and your call that you will not go back into the Executive after the election means that things like this are going nowhere. Is it not better for you to stand at the dispatch box and tell the sector that?"},{"speaker":"Miss McIlveen","text":"I thank the Member for his question, which is probably much more of a political point. The reality of the situation is that we are much further behind with a strategy than I would have liked. My predecessor would have liked this to have been progressed much further so that we could have had a draft strategy agreed well in advance of the end of the mandate as it was. I am not telling any lies when I say that we are not in a position to have a strategy published. The timeline looked towards the autumn of 2022, and we are not in that place. I do not think that I can be any clearer than that."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Toole","text":"I guess I should congratulate the Minister for her candour about the lack of progress on the childcare strategy. Further to Kellie Armstrong's point, however, it is critical that the strategy be costed when it is finally delivered. Now that there is a pause in the Budget — an unwelcome one from my perspective, given the walkout — there is time to ensure that the childcare strategy is delivered and ready to go and that it is properly costed."},{"speaker":"","text":"Will the Minister action her officials to make sure that that childcare strategy is costed and will be included in the three-year Budget that, we hope, will be agreed after the election?"},{"speaker":"Miss McIlveen","text":"I thank the Member for his question. The childcare strategy is critical for us moving forward. If nothing else, COVID shone a light on the need for high-quality and affordable childcare for everyone. This is incredibly important work. Obviously, it has been delayed as a consequence of COVID, but, when we get to the point of having a strategy, it will need to be costed. The House, in whatever format and whoever is in it, will need to take that seriously. I appreciate the comments that the Member has made. Certainly, that is my intent."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Politics aside and moving forward, does the Minister believe that we should review how we allocate preschool places to the statutory and non-statutory sectors as part of the childcare strategy?"},{"speaker":"Miss McIlveen","text":"I thank the Member for her question. There is quite a conversation to be had about childcare, the offering and how it is allocated, particularly around the community and voluntary sector. That sector faces incredible challenges — different challenges — particularly in relation to its staff, the allocation of its staff and the payment of its staff. In the round, all childcare, not just one aspect of it, needs to be looked at."},{"speaker":"Mr Buckley","text":"The Minister understands fully the impact of the affordability of childcare, particularly on working families. I know families who are making the decision not to work because of increased childcare costs, particularly alongside the increase in the cost of living. Will the Minister clarify whether the childcare strategy will specifically address childcare affordability, particularly for working families?"},{"speaker":"Miss McIlveen","text":"I thank the Member for his question. I am aware that affordability is frequently cited as a key issue for families when accessing childcare. It was a key theme that came out of the strategic insight lab. My Department is keen to ensure that families access all the financial support that they are entitled to with the cost of childcare. Work is ongoing with HMRC on the promotion of tax-free childcare for working parents. That UK-wide scheme provides 20% of childcare costs for parents. Up to 85% of childcare costs may be paid to parents who are currently in receipt of universal credit. The research report on a review of childcare services in Northern Ireland will provide further insight into the cost of childcare for parents across Northern Ireland. My officials will continue to engage with stakeholders and providers to monitor the cost of childcare and the cost of providing childcare, which we also need to bear in mind. Executive agreement will be required if significant policy decisions and actions are required within the childcare strategy, and, obviously, they will have to be part of an agreed overall Budget. Affordability needs to be key in all of this."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"The Members who are down for the next two questions are not in their place. I call Peter Weir."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203137%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366723","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2022-02-23&docID=368500#AQO%203137/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366723"}},{"id":"366710","reference":"AQO 3124/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-03","answerBy":"2022-02-22","answered":"2022-02-22","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 Project Stratum.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203124%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366710","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2022-02-22&docID=368499#AQO%203124/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366710"}},{"id":"365357","reference":"AQW 28804/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-27","answerBy":"2022-02-11","answered":"2022-02-16","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 review of the Housing Executive; and whether a report will be produced in advance of the pre-election period at the end of March 2022.","answerText":"Work is well advanced on the Outline Business Case with a comprehensive range of options being considered.\n\nMy officials have worked in partnership with Housing Executive colleagues, to consider and assess options that can maintain and provide good quality and affordable homes for current tenants and future generations.\n\nThe work on the Outline Business Case is nearing completion and I am in the process of receiving advice and considering next steps.","answerHtml":"Work is well advanced on the Outline Business Case with a comprehensive range of options being considered.
My officials have worked in partnership with Housing Executive colleagues, to consider and assess options that can maintain and provide good quality and affordable homes for current tenants and future generations.
The work on the Outline Business Case is nearing completion and I am in the process of receiving advice and considering next steps.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028804%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365357"}},{"id":"365356","reference":"AQW 28803/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-27","answerBy":"2022-02-11","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she plans to update the Local Housing Allowance to ensure that people who are private rental tenants are not penalised for having underused bedrooms, in the same way as social housing tenants are supported through the Social Sector Size Criteria mitigations.","answerText":"I recently appointed an independent panel to take forward a review of welfare mitigation measures. As part of this review the panel have been tasked with identifying the need for a future mitigation package and making recommendations for consideration.\n\nI expect the independent panel to consider a wide range of possible new mitigation measures including support for people affected by the Local Housing Allowance.","answerHtml":"I recently appointed an independent panel to take forward a review of welfare mitigation measures. As part of this review the panel have been tasked with identifying the need for a future mitigation package and making recommendations for consideration.
I expect the independent panel to consider a wide range of possible new mitigation measures including support for people affected by the Local Housing Allowance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028803%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365356"}},{"id":"365239","reference":"AQW 28728/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-26","answerBy":"2022-01-31","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) why the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit has not been paid since the 5 January 2022; (ii) how many people have been affected; and (ii) what action is being taken to ensure ongoing staffing issues do not cause the weekly payment to stop.","answerText":"My Department’s Industrial Injuries Branch is not impacted by staff shortages and continues to make Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit payments","answerHtml":"My Department’s Industrial Injuries Branch is not impacted by staff shortages and continues to make Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit payments
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028728%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365239"}},{"id":"364404","reference":"AQW 28389/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-20","answerBy":"2022-02-04","answered":"2022-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy when his Department last interviewed students to ascertain their views of how higher and further education bodies based in Northern Ireland are delivering value for money for the fees charged.","answerText":"The National Student Survey (NSS) is an annual survey open to higher education students in their final year. The NSS is managed by the Office for Students (OfS) on behalf of the UK funding and regulatory bodies - the Department for the Economy (Northern Ireland), The Scottish Funding Council and the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales.\n\nThe purpose of the NSS is to provide every student, whatever their background, with an opportunity to voice their experience of their course at their university/college. The NSS gathers students’ opinions on the quality of their courses which helps to:\n\ninform prospective students’ choices;\n\nprovide data that supports universities and colleges to improve the student experience; and\n\nsupport public accountability.\n\nEvery university in the UK takes part in the NSS, as do many colleges. Response rates are consistently high.\n\nThe NSS is under constant review to improve quality, student choice, competition and value for money in higher education. A review of the student survey is currently underway to consider the role of the survey, the questions the survey should pose to students, and the publication of data. The aim of this work is to ensure that the NSS remains fit for purpose, and that it continues to support regulation and student information across all four jurisdictions of the UK.\n\nThe Department expects higher education institutions to take account of the results of the annual NSS to inform their own policies and annual Value for Money Statement which is made to the Department.\n\nEngagement with Further Education (FE) learners is usually carried out by the colleges themselves. However in June and again in December 2020, the Department did commission colleges to seek the views of students on their experience of learning during the pandemic and this helped to inform the colleges’ approach to delivery during that period. It did not, however specifically address the value for money aspect.\n\nIt is worth noting that many learners in FE colleges are able to avail of colleges’ concessionary fees policies which take an individual’s financial circumstances into account and given the high proportion of FE learners falling into the lower two deprivation quintiles (44% in 2020/21), it would be expected that many learners will not have to pay their full course fees.\n\nThe Department also commissions an annual FE Leavers Survey (FELS), which normally begins in February each year and lasts for a period of 6 weeks. The aim of this survey is to collect information on the destinations and potential benefits to students of completing and achieving a regulated qualification at an FE College in Northern Ireland.\n\nI met with National Union of Students/Union of Students in Ireland (NUS-USI) on the 18th January to discuss a range of issues affecting students and officials in both Higher and Further Education also regularly engage with them to hear their views on issues which face learners.","answerHtml":"The National Student Survey (NSS) is an annual survey open to higher education students in their final year. The NSS is managed by the Office for Students (OfS) on behalf of the UK funding and regulatory bodies - the Department for the Economy (Northern Ireland), The Scottish Funding Council and the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales.
The purpose of the NSS is to provide every student, whatever their background, with an opportunity to voice their experience of their course at their university/college. The NSS gathers students’ opinions on the quality of their courses which helps to:
inform prospective students’ choices;
provide data that supports universities and colleges to improve the student experience; and
support public accountability.
Every university in the UK takes part in the NSS, as do many colleges. Response rates are consistently high.
The NSS is under constant review to improve quality, student choice, competition and value for money in higher education. A review of the student survey is currently underway to consider the role of the survey, the questions the survey should pose to students, and the publication of data. The aim of this work is to ensure that the NSS remains fit for purpose, and that it continues to support regulation and student information across all four jurisdictions of the UK.
The Department expects higher education institutions to take account of the results of the annual NSS to inform their own policies and annual Value for Money Statement which is made to the Department.
Engagement with Further Education (FE) learners is usually carried out by the colleges themselves. However in June and again in December 2020, the Department did commission colleges to seek the views of students on their experience of learning during the pandemic and this helped to inform the colleges’ approach to delivery during that period. It did not, however specifically address the value for money aspect.
It is worth noting that many learners in FE colleges are able to avail of colleges’ concessionary fees policies which take an individual’s financial circumstances into account and given the high proportion of FE learners falling into the lower two deprivation quintiles (44% in 2020/21), it would be expected that many learners will not have to pay their full course fees.
The Department also commissions an annual FE Leavers Survey (FELS), which normally begins in February each year and lasts for a period of 6 weeks. The aim of this survey is to collect information on the destinations and potential benefits to students of completing and achieving a regulated qualification at an FE College in Northern Ireland.
I met with National Union of Students/Union of Students in Ireland (NUS-USI) on the 18th January to discuss a range of issues affecting students and officials in both Higher and Further Education also regularly engage with them to hear their views on issues which face learners.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028389%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364404","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364404"}},{"id":"364403","reference":"AQW 28388/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-20","answerBy":"2022-02-04","answered":"2022-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how his Department measures (i) the effectiveness; and (ii) the value for money achieved by the Tuition Fee Grant paid to universities in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Department for the Economy requires Northern Ireland’s Universities to provide annual accountability returns to ensure that they are safeguarding the public funds they receive. The accountability returns provided include assurance over the arrangements to promote economy, efficiency and effectiveness.\n\nThe university also produce an Annual Value for Money report which is collected as part of the annual accountability returns. The report identifies the value for money activities undertaken by the University during the year under review and aligns these with the relevant strategic priority and key performance indicators from the corporate plan, demonstrating that value for money is embedded in the strategic plans and corporate objectives of the institution.","answerHtml":"The Department for the Economy requires Northern Ireland’s Universities to provide annual accountability returns to ensure that they are safeguarding the public funds they receive. The accountability returns provided include assurance over the arrangements to promote economy, efficiency and effectiveness.
The university also produce an Annual Value for Money report which is collected as part of the annual accountability returns. The report identifies the value for money activities undertaken by the University during the year under review and aligns these with the relevant strategic priority and key performance indicators from the corporate plan, demonstrating that value for money is embedded in the strategic plans and corporate objectives of the institution.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028388%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364403","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364403"}},{"id":"364402","reference":"AQW 28387/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-20","answerBy":"2022-02-04","answered":"2022-01-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) how many people passed their driving theory test between April 2019 and October 2020; and (ii) how many of those people have not been able to secure a first practical driving test.","answerText":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency’s (DVA) records confirm that between 1 April 2019 and 31 October 2020, 36,860 people passed their driving theory test.\n\nAs of 25 January 2022, DVA records show that 2,213 of these people had not yet booked a practical driving test appointment. Routinely, not everyone who passes the theory test applies for a practical driving test so it is not possible to confirm how many of these people have been unable to secure a first practical driving test.\n\nTo help mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving tests, as a result of Covid restrictions, I brought forward legislation to extend the validity period of theory test pass certificates. Theory test certificates that were due to expire between 1 March 2020 and\n\n31 October 2020 were extended by 12 months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which were due to expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which had not already benefited from an extension, were extended by 8 months.\n\nRather than apply further extensions, taking on board road safety considerations I agreed that the DVA would operate a prioritised booking system for customers that focused on those that have been waiting longest. Phase 1 customers, whose theory test pass certificates will expire by 31 October 2021, opened on 26 April 2021.\n\nThe booking system for Phase 2 customers, whose theory test pass certificates will expire between 1 November 2021 and 31 March 2022, opened on 4 May 2021. The DVA contacted Phase 1 and Phase 2 customers directly before the booking system reopened to advise them of their priority access.\n\nThe booking service opened for all customers on 10 May 2021, providing everyone with a valid theory test pass certificate with equal opportunity to book a driving test, regardless of their past test history or priorities.\n\nYou will appreciate it is important to ensure that new drivers have current relevant road safety knowledge and hazard perception skills at the critical point they drive unsupervised for the first time. Hazard perception skills, a key factor in road safety, is a vital part of the preparation of new drivers, who are disproportionately represented in casualty statistics. For these reasons there are no plans to extend further the validity period of theory test pass certificates.\n\nThe DVA continues to work hard to increase its capacity to help meet the high demand for driving tests for all customers, including those who are required to take a further driving test. In the first eight full months since driving tests resumed, on 23 April, the DVA has conducted 46,525 driving tests, which is 39% higher than the five year average for that period.\n\n.\n\nIn addition to the recruitment of additional examiners, the DVA will continue to offer driving tests on a Saturday and at certain centres on Sundays where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. Overtime will also be used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity and to provide cover for scheduled driving tests, where due to a variety of unforeseen reasons such as sick absence or the requirement to self-isolate, driving examiners are unable to attend work.\n\nThe DVA is releasing Category B (private car) driving test appointments five months in advance with all test centres set to release driving test appointments on the first working day of each month. While additional test slots will also be released as resources continue to become available.\n\nDue to the constantly changing position, the DVA’s advice to customers is to keep checking the booking system for availability as additional appointment slots are added when resources become available. If slots are not initially available at a customer’s preferred test centre, they may wish to consider booking a test at another centre.\n\nI remain committed to minimising disruption and ensuring our plans for the restoration of services is in hand. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times and we would ask customers for their continued patience.","answerHtml":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency’s (DVA) records confirm that between 1 April 2019 and 31 October 2020, 36,860 people passed their driving theory test.
As of 25 January 2022, DVA records show that 2,213 of these people had not yet booked a practical driving test appointment. Routinely, not everyone who passes the theory test applies for a practical driving test so it is not possible to confirm how many of these people have been unable to secure a first practical driving test.
To help mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving tests, as a result of Covid restrictions, I brought forward legislation to extend the validity period of theory test pass certificates. Theory test certificates that were due to expire between 1 March 2020 and
31 October 2020 were extended by 12 months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which were due to expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which had not already benefited from an extension, were extended by 8 months.
Rather than apply further extensions, taking on board road safety considerations I agreed that the DVA would operate a prioritised booking system for customers that focused on those that have been waiting longest. Phase 1 customers, whose theory test pass certificates will expire by 31 October 2021, opened on 26 April 2021.
The booking system for Phase 2 customers, whose theory test pass certificates will expire between 1 November 2021 and 31 March 2022, opened on 4 May 2021. The DVA contacted Phase 1 and Phase 2 customers directly before the booking system reopened to advise them of their priority access.
The booking service opened for all customers on 10 May 2021, providing everyone with a valid theory test pass certificate with equal opportunity to book a driving test, regardless of their past test history or priorities.
You will appreciate it is important to ensure that new drivers have current relevant road safety knowledge and hazard perception skills at the critical point they drive unsupervised for the first time. Hazard perception skills, a key factor in road safety, is a vital part of the preparation of new drivers, who are disproportionately represented in casualty statistics. For these reasons there are no plans to extend further the validity period of theory test pass certificates.
The DVA continues to work hard to increase its capacity to help meet the high demand for driving tests for all customers, including those who are required to take a further driving test. In the first eight full months since driving tests resumed, on 23 April, the DVA has conducted 46,525 driving tests, which is 39% higher than the five year average for that period.
.
In addition to the recruitment of additional examiners, the DVA will continue to offer driving tests on a Saturday and at certain centres on Sundays where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. Overtime will also be used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity and to provide cover for scheduled driving tests, where due to a variety of unforeseen reasons such as sick absence or the requirement to self-isolate, driving examiners are unable to attend work.
The DVA is releasing Category B (private car) driving test appointments five months in advance with all test centres set to release driving test appointments on the first working day of each month. While additional test slots will also be released as resources continue to become available.
Due to the constantly changing position, the DVA’s advice to customers is to keep checking the booking system for availability as additional appointment slots are added when resources become available. If slots are not initially available at a customer’s preferred test centre, they may wish to consider booking a test at another centre.
I remain committed to minimising disruption and ensuring our plans for the restoration of services is in hand. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times and we would ask customers for their continued patience.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028387%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364402","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364402"}},{"id":"364476","reference":"AQO 3035/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-20","answerBy":"2022-01-31","answered":"2022-01-31","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what progress he has made to identify unpaid carers to assess the impact that a lack of respite and day centres, provided by Health and Social Care Trusts, has on carers.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Swann (The Minister of Health)","text":"I request a further minute, so that I can provide a full update on this important topic. Trusts proactively identify unpaid carers by working closely with GPs, pharmacists, the community and voluntary sector and other public agencies. As standard practice, when staff identify carers, they are offered carer assessments or reassessments, and, if that is accepted, arrangements are made for assessments to be carried out. While the impact of the pandemic has yet to be fully quantified and assessed, it is clear that the physical and mental health of our vulnerable adults and carers has been affected as a result of COVID-19 restrictions and the subsequent reduction in adult day care and short breaks. Adult day care and short breaks are subject to nationally agreed health protection guidance to keep service users safe. Dynamic risk assessments of each setting and the implementation of infection control measures ultimately determine the level at which services can be delivered safely. While services have reduced, just as they have in many neighbouring countries, I am, however, mindful of the support that they provide to service users and their families. Members will be aware that the Public Health Agency (PHA) was tasked with undertaking an in-depth review to identify a safe pathway to the full restoration of services. It was formally submitted to the Department at the end of October 2021, and consideration of the pathway was required to take account of the evolving evidence on the transmission, virulence and vaccine escape of the omicron variant. The risk of COVID-19 transmission must, however, be balanced against the health and well-being of carers, who have received a partial service for nearly two years. That is why I have approved in full the pathway for the remobilisation of adult day care, short breaks and transport. My officials have written to the health trusts to direct the full implementation of the pathway, and I expect trusts to act without delay. The trusts will be able to use the pathway as an enabler to scale up services in a holistic manner to manage risks. The trusts will be required to update rebuild plans and outline the time frame for the full restoration of respite services. I personally thank the families who have shaped the pathway through the engagement panel facilitated by the Patient and Client Council. The review and the pathway will be placed on my Department’s website."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"I thank the Minister: he has taken the wind out of my sails, because I was just going to ask him about the restoration document. This is absolutely welcome news for all the carers who are exhausted and have been waiting for day care and respite care to come back. That is all that I will say. Thank you very much."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"I call Colm Gildernew."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Sorry. [Laughter.]"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I will take the opportunity to respond, Mr Speaker. With regard to the challenges —"},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"You are responding to a non-question, but, anyway, respond."},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"— that many carers and family members faced due to the reduction in services of adult day care, short breaks and transport, the Member has raised the issue numerous times in the Chamber. Any time she raised it, I gave her my commitment that we would look at the remobilisation of those services. The pathway has been published. It does not mean that we will go to full delivery straight away, but it sets a pathway to allow our trusts and service providers to get there."},{"speaker":"Mr Gildernew","text":"Minister, I also welcome your commitment. Can you outline a timeline for us? Those families are already extremely hard-pressed. Can you give definitive times for when families will have services restored?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Committee Chair for that point. As I said, the pathway was agreed today. My officials will now write to all the trusts to direct the full implementation of the pathway. I expect trusts to act without delay. The operational delivery will be with trusts."},{"speaker":"Mrs Cameron","text":"I thank the Minister for his welcome announcement in his answer to Kellie Armstrong's question. Pre pandemic, families had to wait some time before receiving a respite care package. That waiting list for support is undoubtedly growing. What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that, once respite services have been properly restored, they will have the capacity to meet the increased demand?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for her point, because it is not just because of COVID that we are in this situation; the challenges were there before COVID. Trusts are at a varying level of adult day-care provision, at between 50% and 60% of pre-pandemic capacity. Trusts have reported significantly reduced access to community short breaks and transport provision. That reflects restrictions on the availability of physical space and the use of independent sector contracts. Trusts are exploring options to further increase the level and range of services that they can provide. Whilst that has resulted in nominal increases to provision, a change in policy is required to restore services to pre-pandemic levels. Furthermore, as I said, trusts have now been instructed to get on with the job of implementing the pathway, and they will be required to set out updated rebuild plans to outline the time frame to fully restore day care, short breaks and transport."},{"speaker":"Mrs D Kelly","text":"As a former rehabilitation day-care services manager, I know that the centres provided much more than respite. There was also intervention post illness or for disability. Will there be additional resources for allied health professionals to go in to rehabilitation centres to enable clients to maximise their opportunities?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for that. As she will be aware, currently, there is a consultation on social care provision for adult services. I encourage the Member to make sure that her views and opinions are fully recorded in that to make sure that the services that are being delivered in every setting meet the needs of those who use them."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203035%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364476","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2022-01-31&docID=365157#AQO%203035/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364476"}},{"id":"364463","reference":"AQO 3022/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-20","answerBy":"2022-01-31","answered":"2022-01-31","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to outline the timetable of the key stages for the approval of the draft Budget 2022-25.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"As the Member will be aware, the draft Budget is out for a 12-week consultation that ends on 7 March. As soon as possible after that consultation period ends, I will bring a further paper to the Executive outlining the consultation responses and seeking agreement on a final Budget. There is a legislative requirement for a Budget to be in place before the beginning of the next financial year. It is therefore imperative that a draft Budget is agreed by the Executive ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. Such an agreement will allow Departments to plan and deliver services appropriately, providing public services with the stability that is afforded by a three-year Budget settlement. I am under no illusion that the timetable is challenging. It will be important for the Executive to work collectively in agreeing a Budget."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Thank you, Minister. As you said, the Budget time frame is extremely challenging. Over recent weeks, we have heard that there may be an attempt to collapse the Assembly. If that happens, what protections can you put in place for all of the community and voluntary sector organisations that will be left without budgets?"},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"We have to ensure that that does not happen. First, any threat to collapse the institutions should be removed. As I have said in recent days, the rest of us are getting on with the work that we need to get on with in the time ahead. We cannot allow ourselves to be distracted. It will be the first three-year Budget in many years that the Assembly and Executive will have dealt with. It gives an opportunity for planning. It does not contain the amount of money that we would have liked in order to support our public services, but, particularly for some of the services that the Member referenced, it is vital to give the certainty and continuity in the time ahead that is offered by the three-year Budget outcome. It would be cynical in the extreme to deny those people the opportunity to get that support. We will, of course, continue to work to ensure that we get Executive agreement, get the Budget through in due course and make sure that we give some certainty to those who most deserve it."},{"speaker":"Mr McHugh","text":"Minister, some Departments have already commented on the difficulties that they will face, especially if Health is prioritised. Whilst there are obvious pressures, can you confirm that this is the most difficult Budget that Departments other than Health have faced?"},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"The Budget that I have produced recognises and supports the priority that the Executive, Executive parties and, generally speaking, most of the MLAs in this institution have stated many times over the last number of years: that health is the priority and that we need to assist it in its transformation, bring down waiting lists and deal with issues like cancer treatment and mental health. The Budget that I have proposed reflected that. That created pressures in other Departments, because we have looked for efficiencies to support that. However, Departments will get a year-on-year increase in their budgets. While it is not all that they would have wanted — the outcome of the spending review is certainly not all that any of us would have wanted — nonetheless, there will be a year-on-year increase. It will be up to Departments to prioritise the spending of that Budget over the next three years in areas that are priorities for them and that can be met from the settlements that they receive. I hope that all parties will recognise the commitment that we all made to support Health in the time ahead and that they will get together and support the Budget proposals. I recognise that we will all face challenges in doing that, but it is a necessary prioritisation."},{"speaker":"Dr Aiken","text":"Will the Minister confirm that, if there is no agreed Budget by the end of the financial year, going forward, we will be limited to 45% of the total Budget in-year? That would be a significant challenge to all our public services."},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"As I said, we should not contemplate that that will be the case. Any threats to bring us into that circumstance should be removed. We are a short distance from the end of the mandate. There is a lot of work to be done in the Chamber and the Executive. We need to conclude that work. We have had only a two-year mandate, essentially, given where we were. If that were to be the case, the Member is correct: in the worst-case scenario, the permanent secretary can ensure that funding continues, but it would be at that limited level. It would not give anywhere near the certainty that an awful lot of organisations depend on. Given that we have a three-year Budget, there is an opportunity to give certainty and allow for planning for the future."},{"speaker":"Mr K Buchanan","text":"Nobody disagrees that Health needs additional money to address the issues. Nobody disagrees with that. As the Finance Minister, are you content that the Department of Health is in a position to manage money effectively? Bearing in mind the amount of money that is spent on locum doctors and agency staff year-on-year and that, by the end of 2025, 52% of our Budget will go to the Department of Health, are you content that that Department is managing money effectively?"},{"speaker":"Mr C Murphy","text":"There is no doubt that, despite the professed expectation that privatisation would create efficiencies, the attempt to transform the NHS over many years by introducing privatisation has created much greater inefficiencies. You can certainly see how the recruitment of agency staff creates a huge inefficiency, when we should have been recruiting people into the health service. That has not been the solution. The Executive have had discussions about wanting to see the timetable for how the additional money provided to Health will be spent, the milestones by which we will judge it and the outcomes in each of the big areas: waiting lists, transformation, cancer treatment and mental health. We want to see how that will be spent. Clearly, the Assembly will want to get an understanding of all that. We have been working and will continue to work with the Health Department to get a clear sense of how that money will be spent in the time ahead and to make sure that that investment, which is necessary, will be used efficiently to create that transformation."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203022%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364463","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2022-01-31&docID=365157#AQO%203022/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364463"}},{"id":"363392","reference":"AQW 27947/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-18","answered":"2022-01-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide a copy of the circular advising schools of the minimum temperature in a classroom that is safe for staff and pupils to continue to have effective learning.","answerText":"DE COVID-19 Guidance for Educational Settings: Section 2: Reduction of Virus Transmission, provides guidance on recommended temperatures in classrooms.\n\nI would draw your attention to the paragraphs on ventilation, specifically:\n\n“To ensure the health, safety and welfare of staff and pupils the ambient temperature in a workplace should not be below 16oC.”\n\nThis guidance is available on the Departmental website:\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-schools-and-educational-settings-northern-ireland","answerHtml":"DE COVID-19 Guidance for Educational Settings: Section 2: Reduction of Virus Transmission, provides guidance on recommended temperatures in classrooms.
I would draw your attention to the paragraphs on ventilation, specifically:
“To ensure the health, safety and welfare of staff and pupils the ambient temperature in a workplace should not be below 16oC.”
This guidance is available on the Departmental website:
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-schools-and-educational-settings-northern-ireland
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027947%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363392","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363392"}},{"id":"363391","reference":"AQW 27946/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-28","answered":"2022-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what action her Department is taking to ensure the trees damaged by her Department along the Comber Road leading into Killyleagh are properly protected and prevented from dying.","answerText":"As you are aware, in October 2021 my Department trimmed back a number of overhanging branches along the Comber Road, Killyleagh which addressed the immediate safety risk. Unfortunately a number of branches were left ‘hanging’ from the trees leaving an unsightly appearance so I have asked officials to remove the broken branches and tidy up the tree line in the coming weeks.\n\nI am also advised that it is not anticipated the trimming work has caused any long term damage to the trees which are expected to recover and improve in appearance over future growing seasons.","answerHtml":"As you are aware, in October 2021 my Department trimmed back a number of overhanging branches along the Comber Road, Killyleagh which addressed the immediate safety risk. Unfortunately a number of branches were left ‘hanging’ from the trees leaving an unsightly appearance so I have asked officials to remove the broken branches and tidy up the tree line in the coming weeks.
I am also advised that it is not anticipated the trimming work has caused any long term damage to the trees which are expected to recover and improve in appearance over future growing seasons.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027946%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363391","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363391"}},{"id":"363390","reference":"AQW 27945/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-28","answered":"2022-01-20","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 work to clear ivy and overgrowth from the walls and fencing on the Comber Road bridge, Killyleagh.","answerText":"In response to complaints about the condition of the steps on Comber Road Bridge, Killyleagh (known locally as Gocean Bridge), my Department cleared debris from the steps on 21 December 2021. The ivy and overgrowth attached to the bridge is not considered to be a hazard or inconvenience to pedestrians and as such my Department currently has no plans to undertake any further maintenance work. However, I have asked my officials to continue to monitor the growth on the bridge and to take steps to clear any overgrowth that is considered to represent a hazard to the public.","answerHtml":"In response to complaints about the condition of the steps on Comber Road Bridge, Killyleagh (known locally as Gocean Bridge), my Department cleared debris from the steps on 21 December 2021. The ivy and overgrowth attached to the bridge is not considered to be a hazard or inconvenience to pedestrians and as such my Department currently has no plans to undertake any further maintenance work. However, I have asked my officials to continue to monitor the growth on the bridge and to take steps to clear any overgrowth that is considered to represent a hazard to the public.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027945%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363390","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363390"}},{"id":"363389","reference":"AQW 27944/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-28","answered":"2022-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) why the collapsing wall in the playground of Portaferry Integrated Primary School has not been repaired months after the Education Authority acknowledged it; and (ii) whether remedial work is a priority to protect pupils and staff, when a safety report is made.","answerText":"I understand that the collapsed wall at Portaferry Integrated Primary School was reported to the Education Authority (EA) Maintenance Helpdesk on 14 December 2020. The collapsed wall was then sectioned off by security fencing as an interim safeguarding measure.\n\nThe EA have advised me that works to erect a new boundary wall are due to commence early February 2022. The delay has been due to an issue over the ownership of the boundary wall which has now been satisfactorily resolved by their Legal Section.","answerHtml":"I understand that the collapsed wall at Portaferry Integrated Primary School was reported to the Education Authority (EA) Maintenance Helpdesk on 14 December 2020. The collapsed wall was then sectioned off by security fencing as an interim safeguarding measure.
The EA have advised me that works to erect a new boundary wall are due to commence early February 2022. The delay has been due to an issue over the ownership of the boundary wall which has now been satisfactorily resolved by their Legal Section.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027944%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363389","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363389"}},{"id":"363388","reference":"AQW 27943/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-28","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what regulations his Department has in place to protect the public from psychological or emotional harm from businesses that generate an income from online betting products operating online in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Gambling (Licensing and Advertising Act) 2014 prohibits any remote gambling operator from advertising to residents here without a licence from the Gambling Commission. The Gambling Commission is currently working to reduce gambling related harm and has issued guidance to all remote operators aimed at strengthening protections and making gambling safer for consumers.\n\nExisting legislation here, namely the Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements Order 1985, predates the internet and is silent on on-line betting. Last year I announced a two phased approach to reforming gambling law here to help, in part, protect the public from psychological and emotional harm from betting products.","answerHtml":"The Gambling (Licensing and Advertising Act) 2014 prohibits any remote gambling operator from advertising to residents here without a licence from the Gambling Commission. The Gambling Commission is currently working to reduce gambling related harm and has issued guidance to all remote operators aimed at strengthening protections and making gambling safer for consumers.
Existing legislation here, namely the Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements Order 1985, predates the internet and is silent on on-line betting. Last year I announced a two phased approach to reforming gambling law here to help, in part, protect the public from psychological and emotional harm from betting products.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027943%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363388","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363388"}},{"id":"365832","reference":"AQO 3016/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-25","answered":"2022-01-26","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 her discussions with the Executive Office on the review of revoking Article 71 of the Fair Employment and Treatment (Northern Ireland) Order 1998.","answerText":"While I am committed to taking this forward, I have not had any discussions with the Executive Office on the Review of revoking Article 71 of the Fair Employment and Treatment Order (Northern Ireland) Order 1998.","answerHtml":"While I am committed to taking this forward, I have not had any discussions with the Executive Office on the Review of revoking Article 71 of the Fair Employment and Treatment Order (Northern Ireland) Order 1998.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203016%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365832","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365832"}},{"id":"366434","reference":"AQO 2982/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-24","answered":"2022-02-01","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 review of revoking Article 71 of the Fair Employment and Treatment (Northern Ireland) Order 1998.","answerText":"We are committed to taking forward a review of this provision.\n\nOur officials have had some preliminary engagement with the Department of Education, as any such review must be taken forward collaboratively with the education sector. That review, as it progresses, will include consideration of the removal of the exception.","answerHtml":"We are committed to taking forward a review of this provision.
Our officials have had some preliminary engagement with the Department of Education, as any such review must be taken forward collaboratively with the education sector. That review, as it progresses, will include consideration of the removal of the exception.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202982%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366434","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366434"}},{"id":"363302","reference":"AQW 27876/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-12","answerBy":"2022-01-17","answered":"2022-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many new applicants to Universal Credit, between 1 April 2020 and 31 December 2021, who were not covered by the mitigation period as set out in The Welfare Reform (NI) Order 2015, are subject to the social sector size criteria and have had deductions taken from their housing benefit.","answerText":"No new applicants to Universal Credit, between 1 April 2020 and 31 December 2021, would have been subject to the Social Sector Size Criteria or had deductions taken from their Housing Benefit.\n\nHousing Benefit is only paid alongside Universal Credit in cases where the customer is in specified accommodation, previously known as supported ‘exempt’ accommodation. Social Sector Size Criteria does not affect those living in specified accommodation so no deduction would be made to their Housing Benefit.","answerHtml":"No new applicants to Universal Credit, between 1 April 2020 and 31 December 2021, would have been subject to the Social Sector Size Criteria or had deductions taken from their Housing Benefit.
Housing Benefit is only paid alongside Universal Credit in cases where the customer is in specified accommodation, previously known as supported ‘exempt’ accommodation. Social Sector Size Criteria does not affect those living in specified accommodation so no deduction would be made to their Housing Benefit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027876%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363302","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363302"}},{"id":"363300","reference":"AQW 27874/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-12","answerBy":"2022-01-27","answered":"2022-01-25","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 feasibility study being completed for Killyleagh Library; and what is the timescale for publication.","answerText":"The feasibility study for Killyleagh library, primarily focused on assessing the options to improve the building’s environmental performance is currently underway, supported by funding from my Department’s 2021/22 Climate Change Fund is expected to completed by April 2022","answerHtml":"The feasibility study for Killyleagh library, primarily focused on assessing the options to improve the building’s environmental performance is currently underway, supported by funding from my Department’s 2021/22 Climate Change Fund is expected to completed by April 2022
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027874%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363300","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363300"}},{"id":"363299","reference":"AQW 27873/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-12","answerBy":"2022-01-27","answered":"2022-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of new applicants to Universal Credit in each month from 1 April 2020 to 31 December 2021.","answerText":"The most recent published Universal Credit statistical data is available on the Department’s website at:\n\nUniversal Credit Statistics - August 2021 | Department for Communities (communities-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"The most recent published Universal Credit statistical data is available on the Department’s website at:
Universal Credit Statistics - August 2021 | Department for Communities (communities-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027873%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363299","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363299"}},{"id":"363298","reference":"AQW 27872/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-12","answerBy":"2022-01-27","answered":"2022-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the procurement process used to engage Bryson to deliver the Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme.","answerText":"My Department did not procure Bryson Care to deliver the Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme.\n\nThe Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme was designed and is operated by Bryson Care. Bryson Care has confirmed that its design is based on the recommendations of Consumer Council and Bryson Energy research ‘The Need for a Fuel Bank Scheme in NI, carried out in 2021.\n\nMy Department has made a contribution of £2Million to the scheme as grant funding.","answerHtml":"My Department did not procure Bryson Care to deliver the Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme.
The Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme was designed and is operated by Bryson Care. Bryson Care has confirmed that its design is based on the recommendations of Consumer Council and Bryson Energy research ‘The Need for a Fuel Bank Scheme in NI, carried out in 2021.
My Department has made a contribution of £2Million to the scheme as grant funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027872%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363298","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363298"}},{"id":"361839","reference":"AQW 27480/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-15","answerBy":"2022-01-05","answered":"2022-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to confirm (i) what transitional protections have been put in place to support people with disabilities during the gap between the closure of the Disability Support Services contract within the Training for Success Programme and the commencement of the new Skills for Life and Apprenticeships Programme; and (ii) how will he ensure people with disabilities are not adversely impacted by the change in the delivery body.","answerText":"Disability support provision has been in place supporting participants on the Department for the Economy’s work-based-learning programmes since 2013. The service is delivered by specialist Disability Support Services (DSS) with the current contract let in April 2017.\n\nAlthough the 2017 DSS contract is coming to an end, I can confirm that procurement of the 2022 contract is progressing well with letters of intent issued on 15 December 2021. It is envisaged that service delivery will be able to commence on 1 February following the completion of the necessary procurement activities in respect of Operational Readiness.\n\nAlthough the result of the procurement exercise will mean that some participants will see a change in DSS provider their training provider will not change. Training Providers have principle responsibility for supporting participants and, in addition to the support available via DSS, a number of measures have been built into the Training for Success and Skills for Life and Work programmes to ensure that participants with a disability have ongoing access to the support they need to achieve including:\n\nA weekly premium which is provided to training contractors for each participant with a disability to enable additional support to be provided; and\n\nParticipants with a disability are eligible for an extra year of training.\n\nThe 2017 DSS contract was due to finish on 31 December however to prevent a gap in provision all current DSS Contractors have been notified of the intention to modify the contract by extending the existing provision until 31 January 2022. DSS contractors are considering this request and the Department will notify all Training Providers of the outcome as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"Disability support provision has been in place supporting participants on the Department for the Economy’s work-based-learning programmes since 2013. The service is delivered by specialist Disability Support Services (DSS) with the current contract let in April 2017.
Although the 2017 DSS contract is coming to an end, I can confirm that procurement of the 2022 contract is progressing well with letters of intent issued on 15 December 2021. It is envisaged that service delivery will be able to commence on 1 February following the completion of the necessary procurement activities in respect of Operational Readiness.
Although the result of the procurement exercise will mean that some participants will see a change in DSS provider their training provider will not change. Training Providers have principle responsibility for supporting participants and, in addition to the support available via DSS, a number of measures have been built into the Training for Success and Skills for Life and Work programmes to ensure that participants with a disability have ongoing access to the support they need to achieve including:
A weekly premium which is provided to training contractors for each participant with a disability to enable additional support to be provided; and
Participants with a disability are eligible for an extra year of training.
The 2017 DSS contract was due to finish on 31 December however to prevent a gap in provision all current DSS Contractors have been notified of the intention to modify the contract by extending the existing provision until 31 January 2022. DSS contractors are considering this request and the Department will notify all Training Providers of the outcome as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027480%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361839","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361839"}},{"id":"361838","reference":"AQW 27479/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-15","answerBy":"2022-01-05","answered":"2022-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to clarify what actions he is taking to address the gap between the Disability Support Services contract within the Training for Success Programme and the new Skills for Life and Apprenticeships Programme.","answerText":"Disability support provision has been in place supporting participants on the Department for the Economy’s work-based-learning programmes since 2013. The service is delivered by specialist Disability Support Services (DSS) with the current contract let in April 2017.\n\nAlthough the 2017 DSS contract is coming to an end, I can confirm that procurement of the 2022 contract is progressing well with letters of intent issued on 15 December 2021. It is envisaged that service delivery will be able to commence on 1 February following the completion of the necessary procurement activities in respect of Operational Readiness.\n\nAlthough the result of the procurement exercise will mean that some participants will see a change in DSS provider their training provider will not change. Training Providers have principle responsibility for supporting participants and, in addition to the support available via DSS, a number of measures have been built into the Training for Success and Skills for Life and Work programmes to ensure that participants with a disability have ongoing access to the support they need to achieve including:\n\nA weekly premium which is provided to training contractors for each participant with a disability to enable additional support to be provided; and\n\nParticipants with a disability are eligible for an extra year of training.\n\nThe 2017 DSS contract was due to finish on 31 December however to prevent a gap in provision all current DSS Contractors have been notified of the intention to modify the contract by extending the existing provision until 31 January 2022. DSS contractors are considering this request and the Department will notify all Training Providers of the outcome as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"Disability support provision has been in place supporting participants on the Department for the Economy’s work-based-learning programmes since 2013. The service is delivered by specialist Disability Support Services (DSS) with the current contract let in April 2017.
Although the 2017 DSS contract is coming to an end, I can confirm that procurement of the 2022 contract is progressing well with letters of intent issued on 15 December 2021. It is envisaged that service delivery will be able to commence on 1 February following the completion of the necessary procurement activities in respect of Operational Readiness.
Although the result of the procurement exercise will mean that some participants will see a change in DSS provider their training provider will not change. Training Providers have principle responsibility for supporting participants and, in addition to the support available via DSS, a number of measures have been built into the Training for Success and Skills for Life and Work programmes to ensure that participants with a disability have ongoing access to the support they need to achieve including:
A weekly premium which is provided to training contractors for each participant with a disability to enable additional support to be provided; and
Participants with a disability are eligible for an extra year of training.
The 2017 DSS contract was due to finish on 31 December however to prevent a gap in provision all current DSS Contractors have been notified of the intention to modify the contract by extending the existing provision until 31 January 2022. DSS contractors are considering this request and the Department will notify all Training Providers of the outcome as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027479%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361838"}},{"id":"361837","reference":"AQW 27478/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-15","answerBy":"2022-01-05","answered":"2021-12-31","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 process to move Land Registry online to enable easier search access for the public.","answerText":"Land Registry has recently published a tender to secure a new IT solution. Once the system is implemented it is expected that members of the public will be able to access documents and searches online.","answerHtml":"Land Registry has recently published a tender to secure a new IT solution. Once the system is implemented it is expected that members of the public will be able to access documents and searches online.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027478%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361837","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361837"}},{"id":"361651","reference":"AQW 27367/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-14","answerBy":"2022-01-04","answered":"2022-01-10","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, following the NIEA Water Framework Directive Statistics Report section on Northern Ireland’s Transitional and Coastal Water body Classification Status, to outline the statistical detail and results used for Strangford Lough for the period covered by the report.","answerText":"The Water Framework Directive (WFD) Statistics Report released in December 2021 included Water Framework Classifications based on monitoring data for the period between 2015 and 2020. Strangford Lough is divided into two separate waterbodies that represent the management units for reporting and assessing compliance with the WFD environmental objectives. These are Strangford Lough (North) and Strangford Lough (South).\n\nThe ecological and chemical classification results for surface water bodies are combined to give an overall status in one of five classes: bad; poor; moderate; good; and high. The ecological status of a water body is determined by the lowest test element and follows the one-out all-out rule.\n\nThe quality elements used to assess ecological status in Strangford include; phytoplankton, macroalgae, angiosperms (sea grass and saltmarsh), zoobenthos and supporting elements such as dissolved oxygen (DO), dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), specific pollutants (Annex VIII), hydromorphology, and high impact invasive species. In excess of 50 chemical pollutants (Annex X - hazardous substances) have been identified for assessing chemical status, returning a good or less than good classification.\n\nAs outlined in the statistic report chemical status monitoring has changed to include new substances and monitoring of biota for ubiquitous, persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (uPBT) chemicals for the first time. This has presented difficulties in making direct comparisons with previously published results. In addition, biological quality elements used in ecological status assessment continue to be developed as our understanding improves.\n\nEcological status (Figures 3a, 4a and 5a of the report) as well chemical status subgroup a (Figures 3b, 4b and 5b) allow backwards comparison with 2015 and 2018.\n\nOver the reporting period 2015-2021 both Strangford Lough waterbodies had an overall surface status (ecological and chemical status combined) of moderate. Over the same period chemical status in both waterbodies failed to achieve good; the ecological status component was also classified at moderate.","answerHtml":"The Water Framework Directive (WFD) Statistics Report released in December 2021 included Water Framework Classifications based on monitoring data for the period between 2015 and 2020. Strangford Lough is divided into two separate waterbodies that represent the management units for reporting and assessing compliance with the WFD environmental objectives. These are Strangford Lough (North) and Strangford Lough (South).
The ecological and chemical classification results for surface water bodies are combined to give an overall status in one of five classes: bad; poor; moderate; good; and high. The ecological status of a water body is determined by the lowest test element and follows the one-out all-out rule.
The quality elements used to assess ecological status in Strangford include; phytoplankton, macroalgae, angiosperms (sea grass and saltmarsh), zoobenthos and supporting elements such as dissolved oxygen (DO), dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), specific pollutants (Annex VIII), hydromorphology, and high impact invasive species. In excess of 50 chemical pollutants (Annex X - hazardous substances) have been identified for assessing chemical status, returning a good or less than good classification.
As outlined in the statistic report chemical status monitoring has changed to include new substances and monitoring of biota for ubiquitous, persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (uPBT) chemicals for the first time. This has presented difficulties in making direct comparisons with previously published results. In addition, biological quality elements used in ecological status assessment continue to be developed as our understanding improves.
Ecological status (Figures 3a, 4a and 5a of the report) as well chemical status subgroup a (Figures 3b, 4b and 5b) allow backwards comparison with 2015 and 2018.
Over the reporting period 2015-2021 both Strangford Lough waterbodies had an overall surface status (ecological and chemical status combined) of moderate. Over the same period chemical status in both waterbodies failed to achieve good; the ecological status component was also classified at moderate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027367%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361651","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361651"}},{"id":"361650","reference":"AQW 27366/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-14","answerBy":"2022-01-04","answered":"2022-01-10","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 for an update on (i) the Towards an Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy for Northern Ireland 2006 - 2026; and (ii) the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy for Northern Ireland is the finalised strategy that was launched in June 2006. This a non-statutory document and many of the objectives contained within it have now been implemented by the relevant Departments.\n\nThe principles of integrated coastal zone management, in particular the consideration of land sea interactions, are embedded throughout strategies and policies such as the draft Marine Plan for Northern Ireland, the Strategic Planning Policy Statement, River Basin Management Plans, and the Strategy for Marine Protected Areas in the Northern Ireland inshore region. The Marine Act (Northern Ireland) 2013 provided the legislation required to develop a Marine Protected Area network and a Marine Plan for Northern Ireland.\n\nClimate change and coastal erosion was identified in the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy as one of the main issues affecting the coastal area. The Coastal Forum is providing a mechanism for my Department, the Department for Infrastructure, coastal councils and the National Trust to work collaboratively on this issue and good progress has been made in gathering the evidence that is needed to understand scale and nature of the issue. A policy workshop was held recently to initiate the process of developing future policy for managing coastal change.","answerHtml":"The Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy for Northern Ireland is the finalised strategy that was launched in June 2006. This a non-statutory document and many of the objectives contained within it have now been implemented by the relevant Departments.
The principles of integrated coastal zone management, in particular the consideration of land sea interactions, are embedded throughout strategies and policies such as the draft Marine Plan for Northern Ireland, the Strategic Planning Policy Statement, River Basin Management Plans, and the Strategy for Marine Protected Areas in the Northern Ireland inshore region. The Marine Act (Northern Ireland) 2013 provided the legislation required to develop a Marine Protected Area network and a Marine Plan for Northern Ireland.
Climate change and coastal erosion was identified in the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy as one of the main issues affecting the coastal area. The Coastal Forum is providing a mechanism for my Department, the Department for Infrastructure, coastal councils and the National Trust to work collaboratively on this issue and good progress has been made in gathering the evidence that is needed to understand scale and nature of the issue. A policy workshop was held recently to initiate the process of developing future policy for managing coastal change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027366%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361650","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361650"}},{"id":"361649","reference":"AQW 27365/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-14","answerBy":"2022-01-04","answered":"2022-01-10","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 whether the Bateman Principle is part of any policy decision making or legislative development in his Department.","answerText":"Previous Ministers concluded that the current Northern Ireland policy on coastal management, known as the Bateman Formula from 1967, is now outdated. In 2015, a Coastal Forum was established and co-chaired by the then Minister for Regional Development and the Minister of the Environment to discuss coastal issues and to seek to adopt a more strategic approach to coastal change management.\n\nI am committed to continuing with a joint approach between my Department, DfI, the coastal councils and the National Trust. A comprehensive Work Programme has been developed by the Coastal Forum Working Group and has been agreed by myself and Minister Mallon. We also recently requested that officials organise a Coastal Policy workshop to initiate policy development that will eventually replace the Bateman approach, which is essentially a coastal protection policy and is unsustainable in the long term.","answerHtml":"Previous Ministers concluded that the current Northern Ireland policy on coastal management, known as the Bateman Formula from 1967, is now outdated. In 2015, a Coastal Forum was established and co-chaired by the then Minister for Regional Development and the Minister of the Environment to discuss coastal issues and to seek to adopt a more strategic approach to coastal change management.
I am committed to continuing with a joint approach between my Department, DfI, the coastal councils and the National Trust. A comprehensive Work Programme has been developed by the Coastal Forum Working Group and has been agreed by myself and Minister Mallon. We also recently requested that officials organise a Coastal Policy workshop to initiate policy development that will eventually replace the Bateman approach, which is essentially a coastal protection policy and is unsustainable in the long term.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027365%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361649","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361649"}},{"id":"361648","reference":"AQW 27364/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-14","answerBy":"2022-01-04","answered":"2021-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, given her Department has overall responsibility for flood risk management and policy in Northern Ireland, whether she intends to extend the Rivers Agency powers beyond maintenance of only the 26km of sea defences and two tidal barriers to all low-lying coastal land impacted by climate change and repeated flooding.","answerText":"My Department has undertaken significant work to develop the 2nd Cycle Flood Risk Management Plan (FRMP) 2021 -2027 that has highlighted the most significant areas of risk in Northern Ireland from rivers, the sea and surface water. A prioritised long term programme has been developed to take forward and deliver the works identified in the plans where they are cost beneficial i.e the costs to construct the flood alleviation scheme are less than the flood damages that would occur in the absence of a scheme. This would include any works identified to deal with coastal flooding.\n\nThe plan also sets out how the relevant authorities will work together with communities to manage flood risks. My officials have worked with partner organisations to develop a coastal flooding emergency response plan. This plan details the arrangements for a co-ordinated multi-agency emergency response to coastal flooding in Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department is currently progressing the Belfast Tidal Flood Alleviation Scheme (BTFAS). The scheme aims to provide a long term approach to tidal flood risk management for the City and covers the area from Belfast Harbour to Stranmillis Weir. The scheme which takes into account the latest projections on climate change, also allows for future adaption to mitigate against potential sea level rises.\n\nThe scheme has been designed to reduce tidal flood risk to over 1,500 properties in the City and will involve the construction of approximately 8.5km of flood defences along the tidal River Lagan. Following an initial design period it is anticipated that construction works will commence on site in early 2022.","answerHtml":"My Department has undertaken significant work to develop the 2nd Cycle Flood Risk Management Plan (FRMP) 2021 -2027 that has highlighted the most significant areas of risk in Northern Ireland from rivers, the sea and surface water. A prioritised long term programme has been developed to take forward and deliver the works identified in the plans where they are cost beneficial i.e the costs to construct the flood alleviation scheme are less than the flood damages that would occur in the absence of a scheme. This would include any works identified to deal with coastal flooding.
The plan also sets out how the relevant authorities will work together with communities to manage flood risks. My officials have worked with partner organisations to develop a coastal flooding emergency response plan. This plan details the arrangements for a co-ordinated multi-agency emergency response to coastal flooding in Northern Ireland.
My Department is currently progressing the Belfast Tidal Flood Alleviation Scheme (BTFAS). The scheme aims to provide a long term approach to tidal flood risk management for the City and covers the area from Belfast Harbour to Stranmillis Weir. The scheme which takes into account the latest projections on climate change, also allows for future adaption to mitigate against potential sea level rises.
The scheme has been designed to reduce tidal flood risk to over 1,500 properties in the City and will involve the construction of approximately 8.5km of flood defences along the tidal River Lagan. Following an initial design period it is anticipated that construction works will commence on site in early 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027364%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361648","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361648"}},{"id":"361647","reference":"AQW 27363/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-14","answerBy":"2022-01-04","answered":"2021-12-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether the Bateman Principle is part of any policy decision making or legislative development in her Department.","answerText":"The Bateman Formula as you will be aware has been in place from 1967. In 2015, a Coastal Forum was established and co-chaired by the then Minister for Regional Development and the Minister of the Environment to discuss coastal issues and to seek to adopt a more strategic approach to coastal change management.\n\nI am committed to continuing with a joint approach between my Department, DAERA, the coastal councils and the National Trust. A comprehensive Work Programme has been developed by the Coastal Forum Working Group and has been agreed by myself and Minister Poots. We also recently requested that officials organise a Coastal Policy workshop to initiate policy development that will eventually replace the Bateman approach, which is essentially a coastal protection policy and is unsustainable in the long term.","answerHtml":"The Bateman Formula as you will be aware has been in place from 1967. In 2015, a Coastal Forum was established and co-chaired by the then Minister for Regional Development and the Minister of the Environment to discuss coastal issues and to seek to adopt a more strategic approach to coastal change management.
I am committed to continuing with a joint approach between my Department, DAERA, the coastal councils and the National Trust. A comprehensive Work Programme has been developed by the Coastal Forum Working Group and has been agreed by myself and Minister Poots. We also recently requested that officials organise a Coastal Policy workshop to initiate policy development that will eventually replace the Bateman approach, which is essentially a coastal protection policy and is unsustainable in the long term.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027363%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361647","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361647"}},{"id":"361327","reference":"AQW 27200/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-10","answerBy":"2021-12-30","answered":"2021-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether she has any plans to review the policy that children with a Statement of Special Educational Needs are counted as supernumerary and are not included in the school's pupil numbers.","answerText":"Article 18(1)(f) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 specifies that normal admissions arrangements do not apply in respect of children with statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN), while Article 16(5)(b) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 places a duty on a school’s Board of Governors (BoG) to admit a statemented child if that school is named on his/her statement.\n\nThere are no current plans to review this policy where statemented children are treated as supernumerary for the entire duration of their time at school. My Department did examine this issue some years ago with the managing authorities and sectoral body representatives and consulted with schools and Trades Union Side (TUS) on a draft proposal. This work was discontinued as factors such as annual growth or decline in pupil numbers at individual schools and the increasing number of children presenting with statements resulted in changeable modelling outcomes from year-to-year. This would have created difficulties for schools to manage any flexibilities they had around approved enrolments and how they could manage available places and in the assessment of suitable school sizes when planning new builds or extensions to existing school stock.\n\nIt should be noted that the Department’s assessment of sustainability where a Development Proposal (DP) is published always examines the position excluding and including SEN.","answerHtml":"Article 18(1)(f) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 specifies that normal admissions arrangements do not apply in respect of children with statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN), while Article 16(5)(b) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 places a duty on a school’s Board of Governors (BoG) to admit a statemented child if that school is named on his/her statement.
There are no current plans to review this policy where statemented children are treated as supernumerary for the entire duration of their time at school. My Department did examine this issue some years ago with the managing authorities and sectoral body representatives and consulted with schools and Trades Union Side (TUS) on a draft proposal. This work was discontinued as factors such as annual growth or decline in pupil numbers at individual schools and the increasing number of children presenting with statements resulted in changeable modelling outcomes from year-to-year. This would have created difficulties for schools to manage any flexibilities they had around approved enrolments and how they could manage available places and in the assessment of suitable school sizes when planning new builds or extensions to existing school stock.
It should be noted that the Department’s assessment of sustainability where a Development Proposal (DP) is published always examines the position excluding and including SEN.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027200%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361327","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361327"}},{"id":"361326","reference":"AQW 27199/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-10","answerBy":"2021-12-30","answered":"2021-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the legislation or policy that explains why children with special educational needs are not included as part of the school enrolment numbers, after admission.","answerText":"Article 18(1)(f) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 specifies that normal admissions arrangements do not apply in respect of children with statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN), while Article 16(5)(b) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 places a duty on a school’s Board of Governors (BoG) to admit a statemented child if that school is named on his/her statement.\n\nThere are no current plans to review this policy where statemented children are treated as supernumerary for the entire duration of their time at school. My Department did examine this issue some years ago with the managing authorities and sectoral body representatives and consulted with schools and Trades Union Side (TUS) on a draft proposal. This work was discontinued as factors such as annual growth or decline in pupil numbers at individual schools and the increasing number of children presenting with statements resulted in changeable modelling outcomes from year-to-year. This would have created difficulties for schools to manage any flexibilities they had around approved enrolments and how they could manage available places and in the assessment of suitable school sizes when planning new builds or extensions to existing school stock.\n\nIt should be noted that the Department’s assessment of sustainability where a Development Proposal (DP) is published always examines the position excluding and including SEN.","answerHtml":"Article 18(1)(f) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 specifies that normal admissions arrangements do not apply in respect of children with statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN), while Article 16(5)(b) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 places a duty on a school’s Board of Governors (BoG) to admit a statemented child if that school is named on his/her statement.
There are no current plans to review this policy where statemented children are treated as supernumerary for the entire duration of their time at school. My Department did examine this issue some years ago with the managing authorities and sectoral body representatives and consulted with schools and Trades Union Side (TUS) on a draft proposal. This work was discontinued as factors such as annual growth or decline in pupil numbers at individual schools and the increasing number of children presenting with statements resulted in changeable modelling outcomes from year-to-year. This would have created difficulties for schools to manage any flexibilities they had around approved enrolments and how they could manage available places and in the assessment of suitable school sizes when planning new builds or extensions to existing school stock.
It should be noted that the Department’s assessment of sustainability where a Development Proposal (DP) is published always examines the position excluding and including SEN.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027199%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361326","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361326"}},{"id":"361325","reference":"AQW 27198/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-10","answerBy":"2021-12-30","answered":"2021-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education why children with special educational needs are not included in her Department’s total school enrolment numbers when considering school sustainability.","answerText":"Article 18(1)(f) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 specifies that normal admissions arrangements do not apply in respect of children with statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN), while Article 16(5)(b) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 places a duty on a school’s Board of Governors (BoG) to admit a statemented child if that school is named on his/her statement.\n\nThere are no current plans to review this policy where statemented children are treated as supernumerary for the entire duration of their time at school. My Department did examine this issue some years ago with the managing authorities and sectoral body representatives and consulted with schools and Trades Union Side (TUS) on a draft proposal. This work was discontinued as factors such as annual growth or decline in pupil numbers at individual schools and the increasing number of children presenting with statements resulted in changeable modelling outcomes from year-to-year. This would have created difficulties for schools to manage any flexibilities they had around approved enrolments and how they could manage available places and in the assessment of suitable school sizes when planning new builds or extensions to existing school stock.\n\nIt should be noted that the Department’s assessment of sustainability where a Development Proposal (DP) is published always examines the position excluding and including SEN.","answerHtml":"Article 18(1)(f) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 specifies that normal admissions arrangements do not apply in respect of children with statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN), while Article 16(5)(b) of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 places a duty on a school’s Board of Governors (BoG) to admit a statemented child if that school is named on his/her statement.
There are no current plans to review this policy where statemented children are treated as supernumerary for the entire duration of their time at school. My Department did examine this issue some years ago with the managing authorities and sectoral body representatives and consulted with schools and Trades Union Side (TUS) on a draft proposal. This work was discontinued as factors such as annual growth or decline in pupil numbers at individual schools and the increasing number of children presenting with statements resulted in changeable modelling outcomes from year-to-year. This would have created difficulties for schools to manage any flexibilities they had around approved enrolments and how they could manage available places and in the assessment of suitable school sizes when planning new builds or extensions to existing school stock.
It should be noted that the Department’s assessment of sustainability where a Development Proposal (DP) is published always examines the position excluding and including SEN.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027198%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361325","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361325"}},{"id":"361149","reference":"AQW 27116/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-09","answerBy":"2021-12-29","answered":"2021-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 26687/17-22 (i) why the section of coastal erosion is not being followed up by DfI Roads officials when the erosion is along the edge of the main A20; and (ii) whether her Department plans to take remedial measures to force the landowner to put right the harbour wall defences running parallel to the A20.","answerText":"As I advised in my response to AQW 26687/17-22, the harbour at Kircubbin is in private ownership and therefore is the responsibility of the owner. I can advise that my officials have inspected the area and have confirmed that the erosion remains several metres away from the public road boundary and the integrity of the road is not at risk.\n\nThere are no plans to take any measures to force the owner to put right their property. My Department will only take action if there is a risk to the safety or integrity of the public road. I have asked officials to continue to monitor this area and reassess the situation should the erosion worsen.","answerHtml":"As I advised in my response to AQW 26687/17-22, the harbour at Kircubbin is in private ownership and therefore is the responsibility of the owner. I can advise that my officials have inspected the area and have confirmed that the erosion remains several metres away from the public road boundary and the integrity of the road is not at risk.
There are no plans to take any measures to force the owner to put right their property. My Department will only take action if there is a risk to the safety or integrity of the public road. I have asked officials to continue to monitor this area and reassess the situation should the erosion worsen.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027116%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361149","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361149"}},{"id":"361148","reference":"AQW 27115/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-09","answerBy":"2021-12-29","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when Funeral Expenses Payment levels were last reviewed and compared with the average price of a funeral in Northern Ireland; and whether she will increase the amount allocated should a new review indicate the expenses payment does not meet at least 50 per cent of the cost of a funeral for a person on benefits, including pension credit recipients, where there is no funeral payment plan or savings available.","answerText":"The amount allowed for “other funeral costs” was reviewed in 2019 and it was agreed that the cap should be increased from £700 to £1000. This change took effect in April 2020.\n\nAny further increases in the amount of the payment would require Executive approval and a change in legislation.","answerHtml":"The amount allowed for “other funeral costs” was reviewed in 2019 and it was agreed that the cap should be increased from £700 to £1000. This change took effect in April 2020.
Any further increases in the amount of the payment would require Executive approval and a change in legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027115%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361148","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361148"}},{"id":"361147","reference":"AQW 27114/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-09","answerBy":"2021-12-29","answered":"2021-12-17","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 Energy Payment Support Scheme, including (i) the eligibility and application criteria; (ii) the amount of award per recipient; and (iii) the third sector bodies that have been involved with the development of the scheme.","answerText":"This is a global fuel crisis and undoubtedly will have a major impact, including on those who are already struggling financially. The Department continues to engage with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council and given the scale of this crisis will work with Executive colleagues to try and mitigate the impacts\n\nOnce the level of funding is known I will be in a position to confirm who will be eligible, and the amount of the proposed one-off payment.\n\nThird sector bodies have not been involved in the development of the scheme.","answerHtml":"This is a global fuel crisis and undoubtedly will have a major impact, including on those who are already struggling financially. The Department continues to engage with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council and given the scale of this crisis will work with Executive colleagues to try and mitigate the impacts
Once the level of funding is known I will be in a position to confirm who will be eligible, and the amount of the proposed one-off payment.
Third sector bodies have not been involved in the development of the scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027114%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361147","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361147"}},{"id":"360423","reference":"AQW 26822/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-03","answerBy":"2021-12-20","answered":"2021-12-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether any Barnett consequentials will result from Westminster plans to boost the supply of supported housing in England with an extra £300 million investment as part of social care reforms.","answerText":"The announcement on 1st December 2021 regarding adult social care reform in England will be funded from the Spending Review allocations. The Executive will not receive any additional funding beyond that which is already included in the Executive's budget deliberations.","answerHtml":"The announcement on 1st December 2021 regarding adult social care reform in England will be funded from the Spending Review allocations. The Executive will not receive any additional funding beyond that which is already included in the Executive's budget deliberations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026822%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360423","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360423"}},{"id":"360422","reference":"AQW 26821/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-03","answerBy":"2021-12-20","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 24920/17-22, to provide a copy of the written communications provided to Housing Executive tenants that provides the alternative method to report repairs rather than the online Tenant Portal.","answerText":"Due to the nature of the information required to answer AQW 26821/17-22, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the nature of the information required to answer AQW 26821/17-22, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026821%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360422","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360422"}},{"id":"362316","reference":"AQO 2906/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-02","answerBy":"2021-12-13","answered":"2021-12-17","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 to outline what measures were taken during the development of the Executive’s COVID Recovery Plan to ensure it was shared future-proofed.","answerText":"The Executive’s Building Forward – Consolidated Covid-19 Recovery Plan was published on 2 August 2021.\n\nDepartments worked in partnership to develop an integrated Recovery Plan, which aims to deliver societal, economic and health recovery; and to inform the Executive’s priorities that will help to accelerate this.\n\nThe Plan has been designed to implement action over a two-year period focusing on both immediate priorities and longer-term interventions that require planning now.\n\nIn terms of shared future-proofing, the Recovery Plan was designed with the draft Programme for Government Outcomes Framework in mind, and with the people’s needs at its centre. Whilst not a substitute for an agreed Programme for Government, the recovery workstreams are likely to form the basis of a number of key strategic areas that will dovetail into the longer-term draft PfG Outcomes Framework.\n\nA Cross Departmental Covid-19 Recovery Taskforce has been established to support implementation of the Recovery Plan. The Taskforce will provide update reports throughout the lifetime of the Recovery Plan, the first of which we expect before the end of this month.\n\nWe recognise the plan may need to change throughout its lifespan; priorities may change over time and other issues may manifest and become more significant - we therefore need to have the flexibility to respond accordingly.\n\nOfficials will continue to work with and engage with stakeholders to ensure the critical challenges faced across our society continue to be addressed.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Building Forward – Consolidated Covid-19 Recovery Plan was published on 2 August 2021.
Departments worked in partnership to develop an integrated Recovery Plan, which aims to deliver societal, economic and health recovery; and to inform the Executive’s priorities that will help to accelerate this.
The Plan has been designed to implement action over a two-year period focusing on both immediate priorities and longer-term interventions that require planning now.
In terms of shared future-proofing, the Recovery Plan was designed with the draft Programme for Government Outcomes Framework in mind, and with the people’s needs at its centre. Whilst not a substitute for an agreed Programme for Government, the recovery workstreams are likely to form the basis of a number of key strategic areas that will dovetail into the longer-term draft PfG Outcomes Framework.
A Cross Departmental Covid-19 Recovery Taskforce has been established to support implementation of the Recovery Plan. The Taskforce will provide update reports throughout the lifetime of the Recovery Plan, the first of which we expect before the end of this month.
We recognise the plan may need to change throughout its lifespan; priorities may change over time and other issues may manifest and become more significant - we therefore need to have the flexibility to respond accordingly.
Officials will continue to work with and engage with stakeholders to ensure the critical challenges faced across our society continue to be addressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202906%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362316","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362316"}},{"id":"360092","reference":"AQW 26688/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-01","answerBy":"2021-12-16","answered":"2021-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the Historic Environment Division will conduct an urgent review of the damage caused to Kircubbin Quay; and what actions her Department can take to protect this local historical asset.","answerText":"I have instructed my officials to investigate any recent damage at this site and make contact with the owner, relevant groups and individuals. As previously advised, in relation to the repair of any damage, the primary role of my Department is in an advice and regulatory capacity around informing and consenting conservation works there.","answerHtml":"I have instructed my officials to investigate any recent damage at this site and make contact with the owner, relevant groups and individuals. As previously advised, in relation to the repair of any damage, the primary role of my Department is in an advice and regulatory capacity around informing and consenting conservation works there.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026688%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360092","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360092"}},{"id":"360091","reference":"AQW 26687/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-01","answerBy":"2021-12-16","answered":"2021-12-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will provide an urgent assessment of the A20 Shore Road, Kircubbin at the quay, where extensive coastal erosion has removed the harbour wall taking away a significant portion of the land between the lough and the road.","answerText":"I understand that the harbour at Kircubbin is in private ownership and therefore is the responsibility of the land owner. Concerns have been raised previously with my officials about the erosion issue and also about the lack of a secure boundary to this private facility. These concerns have been passed on to the harbour owner and the Health and Safety Executive.","answerHtml":"I understand that the harbour at Kircubbin is in private ownership and therefore is the responsibility of the land owner. Concerns have been raised previously with my officials about the erosion issue and also about the lack of a secure boundary to this private facility. These concerns have been passed on to the harbour owner and the Health and Safety Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026687%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360091","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360091"}},{"id":"359658","reference":"AQW 26546/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-29","answerBy":"2021-12-14","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, in light of the number of people aged over 65 in work in the UK increasing by 188 per cent between 1999 and 2019, what advice is being provided to employers to ensure this group has appropriate health and safety considerations and access to appropriate training.","answerText":"Under health and safety law employers must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of all their employees, irrespective of age. Older workers play a vital role in many workplaces in our economy. Their knowledge, experience and skills are key assets for us all so looking after their health and safety makes good business sense.\n\nUnder the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (2000), employers have a duty to make a suitable and sufficient assessment of the workplace risks to the health and safety of all employees. This includes identifying groups of workers who might be at particular risk, which could include older workers.\n\nA separate risk assessment is not required specifically for older workers. Employers must also provide adequate information, instruction, training and supervision to enable their employees to carry out their work safely.\n\nFurther information on the health and safety of older workers can be found at\n\nhttps://www.hseni.gov.uk/older-workers","answerHtml":"Under health and safety law employers must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of all their employees, irrespective of age. Older workers play a vital role in many workplaces in our economy. Their knowledge, experience and skills are key assets for us all so looking after their health and safety makes good business sense.
Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (2000), employers have a duty to make a suitable and sufficient assessment of the workplace risks to the health and safety of all employees. This includes identifying groups of workers who might be at particular risk, which could include older workers.
A separate risk assessment is not required specifically for older workers. Employers must also provide adequate information, instruction, training and supervision to enable their employees to carry out their work safely.
Further information on the health and safety of older workers can be found at
https://www.hseni.gov.uk/older-workers
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026546%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359658","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359658"}},{"id":"359657","reference":"AQW 26545/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-29","answerBy":"2021-12-14","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide a copy of the (i) approved Business Case for the Sports Sustainability Fund; and (ii) application form and criteria subsequently published by Sport NI for sports bodies and organisations to use to make application for aforementioned Covid funding.","answerText":"Due to the size of the information requested, I have arranged for the following documents to be placed in the Assembly library.\n\nAnnex A - Sports Sustainability Fund – Revised Business Case;\n\nAnnex B – Governing Body Guidance Notes;\n\nAnnex C – Governing Body Blank Application Form;\n\nAnnex D – Affiliated Clubs Entities Guidance Notes; and\n\nAnnex E – Club Blank Application Form.","answerHtml":"Due to the size of the information requested, I have arranged for the following documents to be placed in the Assembly library.
Annex A - Sports Sustainability Fund – Revised Business Case;
Annex B – Governing Body Guidance Notes;
Annex C – Governing Body Blank Application Form;
Annex D – Affiliated Clubs Entities Guidance Notes; and
Annex E – Club Blank Application Form.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026545%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359657"}},{"id":"359656","reference":"AQW 26544/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-29","answerBy":"2021-12-14","answered":"2021-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 23033/17-22, of the £500 million set aside for the Fresh Start funding, whether she can identify how much has been allocated to each individual project within integrated education and shared housing, including Strule Shared Education Campus.","answerText":"A full list of Fresh Start projects, including the amount spent on each scheme up to the end of the 2020-21 financial year, is included in the table below. Projected spend in the 2021-22 financial year is £15.2m across all the projects. This will be managed in-year and allocated to projects based on need. The budget allocations for future years have not yet been announced.\n\nMy Department holds no information on the allocation of funding for shared housing projects.\n\nProjects Completed\tSpend up to end of 20/21 FY\nDrumlins Integrated Primary School\t£3.364m\nBraidside Integrated Primary School\t£7.087m\nContractor Appointed\tSpend up to end of 20/21 FY\nLimavady Shared Education Campus (Limavady High School & St Mary’s Limavady)\t£0.927m\nEnniskillen Integrated Primary School\t£1.003m\nRoe Valley Integrated Primary School\t£0.899m\nUlidia Integrated College\t£0.606m\nContractor expected to be appointed in the current Financial Year 2021-22\tSpend up to end of 20/21 FY\nStrangford Integrated College\t£0.773m\nRowandale Integrated Primary School\t£0.457m\nShimna Integrated College\t£0.804m\nMillennium Integrated Primary School\t£0.443m\nPhoenix Integrated Primary School\t£0.335m\nBallycastle Shared Education Campus (Ballycastle High School & Cross and Passion College)\t£0.966m\nNew-Bridge Integrated College\t£2.060m\nProjects in the later stages of design\nMill Strand Integrated Primary School\t£0.480m\nForge Integrated Primary School\t£0.188m\nPriory College\t£0.323m\nBangor Central Integrated Primary School\t£0.321m\nProjects in the early design stages\nMoy Shared Education Campus (Moy Regional PS & St John’s PS)\t£0.098m\nFort Hill College\t£0.290m\nFort Hill Integrated Primary School\t£0.119m\nHazelwood Integrated College\t£0.343m\nSlemish Integrated College\t£0.236m\nIntegrated College Dungannon\t£0.213m\nParkhall Integrated College\t£0.035m\nDrumragh Integrated College\t£0.066m\nBrookeborough Shared Education Campus (St Mary’s PS & Brookeborough PS)\t£0.107m\nProjects on hold or withdrawn.\nNorth Coast Integrated College\tN/A\nDuneane / Moneynick Shared Education Campus\tN/A\nStrule Shared Education Campus\nStrule Shared Education Campus\t£14.487m","answerHtml":"A full list of Fresh Start projects, including the amount spent on each scheme up to the end of the 2020-21 financial year, is included in the table below. Projected spend in the 2021-22 financial year is £15.2m across all the projects. This will be managed in-year and allocated to projects based on need. The budget allocations for future years have not yet been announced.
My Department holds no information on the allocation of funding for shared housing projects.
| Projects Completed | Spend up to end of 20/21 FY |
| Drumlins Integrated Primary School | £3.364m |
| Braidside Integrated Primary School | £7.087m |
| Contractor Appointed | Spend up to end of 20/21 FY |
| Limavady Shared Education Campus (Limavady High School & St Mary’s Limavady) | £0.927m |
| Enniskillen Integrated Primary School | £1.003m |
| Roe Valley Integrated Primary School | £0.899m |
| Ulidia Integrated College | £0.606m |
| Contractor expected to be appointed in the current Financial Year 2021-22 | Spend up to end of 20/21 FY |
| Strangford Integrated College | £0.773m |
| Rowandale Integrated Primary School | £0.457m |
| Shimna Integrated College | £0.804m |
| Millennium Integrated Primary School | £0.443m |
| Phoenix Integrated Primary School | £0.335m |
| Ballycastle Shared Education Campus (Ballycastle High School & Cross and Passion College) | £0.966m |
| New-Bridge Integrated College | £2.060m |
| Projects in the later stages of design | |
| Mill Strand Integrated Primary School | £0.480m |
| Forge Integrated Primary School | £0.188m |
| Priory College | £0.323m |
| Bangor Central Integrated Primary School | £0.321m |
| Projects in the early design stages | |
| Moy Shared Education Campus (Moy Regional PS & St John’s PS) | £0.098m |
| Fort Hill College | £0.290m |
| Fort Hill Integrated Primary School | £0.119m |
| Hazelwood Integrated College | £0.343m |
| Slemish Integrated College | £0.236m |
| Integrated College Dungannon | £0.213m |
| Parkhall Integrated College | £0.035m |
| Drumragh Integrated College | £0.066m |
| Brookeborough Shared Education Campus (St Mary’s PS & Brookeborough PS) | £0.107m |
| Projects on hold or withdrawn. | |
| North Coast Integrated College | N/A |
| Duneane / Moneynick Shared Education Campus | N/A |
| Strule Shared Education Campus | |
| Strule Shared Education Campus | £14.487m |
This case applies to English law, and relates to an interpretation of English Private Residential Tenancy legislation.
The Department’s view is that this case has no bearing here and therefore, the case has no impact on the Private Tenancies Bill.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026386%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359235","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359235"}},{"id":"359234","reference":"AQW 26385/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-25","answerBy":"2021-12-10","answered":"2021-12-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what amendments he intends to make to existing building regulations to require every new home, including flats and dwellings , to have electric vehicle charging point infrastructure.","answerText":"Policy on electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure is the responsibility of the Department for Infrastructure (DfI).\n\nMy Department has offered the use of Building Regulations as a potential legislative mechanism to assist DfI in implementing a requirement for the provision of EV charging point infrastructure, should that department decide to progress in this way. I recently noted the importance of supporting infrastructure for zero emission vehicles and reminded the Minister for Infrastructure that my Department awaits direction on this matter.\n\nIn the meantime, my officials maintain a watching brief for further developments in building regulations in other regions.","answerHtml":"Policy on electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure is the responsibility of the Department for Infrastructure (DfI).
My Department has offered the use of Building Regulations as a potential legislative mechanism to assist DfI in implementing a requirement for the provision of EV charging point infrastructure, should that department decide to progress in this way. I recently noted the importance of supporting infrastructure for zero emission vehicles and reminded the Minister for Infrastructure that my Department awaits direction on this matter.
In the meantime, my officials maintain a watching brief for further developments in building regulations in other regions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026385%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359234","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359234"}},{"id":"359233","reference":"AQW 26384/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-25","answerBy":"2021-12-10","answered":"2021-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how she will ensure every new home, including flats and dwellings created from a change of use, will have electric vehicle charging point infrastructure in line with the plans being brought forward by Westminster.","answerText":"I am currently considering the most appropriate approach to bring forward the provision of EV Charging Infrastructure in our residential and non-residential properties, including through the use of Building Regulations, and my officials are liaising with the Department of Finance on this matter.","answerHtml":"I am currently considering the most appropriate approach to bring forward the provision of EV Charging Infrastructure in our residential and non-residential properties, including through the use of Building Regulations, and my officials are liaising with the Department of Finance on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026384%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359233","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359233"}},{"id":"359231","reference":"AQW 26382/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-25","answerBy":"2021-12-10","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide a copy of the strategic plan and action plan demonstrating how the Housing Executive plans to ensure all of their homes meet SAP band C energy standards; and how areas are being prioritised.","answerText":"The Housing Executive is committed to urgent climate mitigation and adaptation and is currently preparing an Energy Strategy whose medium-to-long term aspiration is to significantly improve the energy efficiency of our stock at present approximately a quarter of the Housing Executive’s homes are rated as SAP C standard or above.\n\nThe work to achieve greater energy efficiency is undertaken as part of their asset management and planned maintenance programmes.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive is committed to urgent climate mitigation and adaptation and is currently preparing an Energy Strategy whose medium-to-long term aspiration is to significantly improve the energy efficiency of our stock at present approximately a quarter of the Housing Executive’s homes are rated as SAP C standard or above.
The work to achieve greater energy efficiency is undertaken as part of their asset management and planned maintenance programmes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026382%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359231","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359231"}},{"id":"358862","reference":"AQW 26209/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-23","answerBy":"2021-12-08","answered":"2021-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following the Public Accounts Committee evidence session with Sport NI on the 18 November 2021, whether the Covid grants for sport met all internal audit assessments; and whether all the grants issued met the public benefit test.","answerText":"NIAO completed a review and produce a detailed report on the Fund.\n\nPost Project Evaluations for Sport NI’s COVID grant schemes are planned; these evaluations will assess the impact of the grants awarded and the benefits realised.","answerHtml":"NIAO completed a review and produce a detailed report on the Fund.
Post Project Evaluations for Sport NI’s COVID grant schemes are planned; these evaluations will assess the impact of the grants awarded and the benefits realised.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026209%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358862","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358862"}},{"id":"358861","reference":"AQW 26208/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-23","answerBy":"2021-12-08","answered":"2022-01-06","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 the provision of mental health services for children in Northern Ireland; and how many children who are self-harming are on a waiting list for intervention and support.","answerText":"Mental health services for children and young people are provided in each Trust area through Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). It is widely accepted that in recent years, services have come under increasing pressure as a result of increased demand and resource constraints. These challenges have been further exacerbated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\nIn response, my Department has implemented a number of measures to increase capacity and improve overall performance across CAMHS, including additional investment to tackle waiting lists and ongoing work to establish a Managed Care Network, which will enable clinical expertise to be shared across the region. It is anticipated that the Managed Care Network will be fully operation by early 2022.\n\nWhile some good progress has been made, it is anticipated that longer-term improvement in CAMHS will be achieved through implementation of the new Mental Health Strategy 2021-31, which includes among other priorities, a commitment to increase CAMHS funding to 10% of the overall mental health budget.\n\nThe number of children waiting for a CAMHS appointment is not categorised, and in that context, the number of children who are self-harming and on a waiting list for intervention and support is not available.","answerHtml":"Mental health services for children and young people are provided in each Trust area through Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). It is widely accepted that in recent years, services have come under increasing pressure as a result of increased demand and resource constraints. These challenges have been further exacerbated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response, my Department has implemented a number of measures to increase capacity and improve overall performance across CAMHS, including additional investment to tackle waiting lists and ongoing work to establish a Managed Care Network, which will enable clinical expertise to be shared across the region. It is anticipated that the Managed Care Network will be fully operation by early 2022.
While some good progress has been made, it is anticipated that longer-term improvement in CAMHS will be achieved through implementation of the new Mental Health Strategy 2021-31, which includes among other priorities, a commitment to increase CAMHS funding to 10% of the overall mental health budget.
The number of children waiting for a CAMHS appointment is not categorised, and in that context, the number of children who are self-harming and on a waiting list for intervention and support is not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026208%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358861","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358861"}},{"id":"358315","reference":"AQW 26001/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-18","answerBy":"2021-12-03","answered":"2021-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what actions are being taken to support the mental health of further and higher education students; and what action plan there is to support students to improve mental health outcomes.","answerText":"Support services for students are primarily a matter for the Department for the Economy, however the health system is collaborating with higher education bodies to improve mental health outcomes for students.\n\nThe Department for Health published a Mental Health Strategy for Northern Ireland 2021-2031 on the 29th June 2021. There is clear evidence that the student population in Northern Ireland is vulnerable to mental ill health. It is important that we continue to work across government and sectors to intervene early to provide support to help students stay emotionally well and build resilience to support them in their learning journeys and lives beyond. The Strategy recognises the need to ensure that this group is targeted for preventative work and early intervention.\n\nAction 8 of the Mental Health Strategy commits to the creation of a dedicated resource for student mental health across tertiary education through the existing delivery of mental health services.\n\nThe Belfast Health and Social Care Trust is part resourcing a pilot with Queens University Belfast and the University Of Ulster for students with a term time Belfast post code to provide a dedicated and responsive student mental health service, with the aim of better engagement and better clinical outcomes through early intervention. The project has completed year 2 and is being funded for a further year.\n\nThe Public Health Agency (PHA) is working, on behalf of Department of Health (DoH), to increase the uptake of COVID-19 vaccinations in young people, with a key focus on students in further and higher education. Increasing the vaccination levels in the student population will reduce isolation and the mental health impacts of pandemic by supporting on campus learning and social opportunities.\n\nThe PHA is working with the Student Wellbeing Services in QUB and UU to develop wellbeing initiatives to support students during the academic year 2021/22. Each university has assessed the needs of their students and has submitted a proposal for funding programmes and resources they have identified as a priority for the coming year. Funding of £30,000 is available in year for each university. The funding includes support for programmes such as:\n\nMind your mood activities aligned to Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing;\n\nA “Be Active” mental health referral programme;\n\nA “Power Up & Get Connected” campaign targeting young men who are known to the university wellbeing team but are known not to be engaging with services; and\n\nSupport for Mind you Mood Student Ambassadors.\n\nThe PHA is also a member of the Student Wellbeing Networking Forum, which provides an opportunity for those involved in student wellbeing services in further and higher education to link and network with those involved in mental health and wellbeing services.\n\nPHA annually funds the design, update and printing of the ‘Minding Your Head: Student Guide to Mental Health’. Printing has temporarily been stopped due to covid, however the resource is updated annually and shared with all new and current students in Universities and FE Colleges across NI. This is available online: Mind Your Head Booklet 09_20 final.pdf (hscni.net).\n\nAn Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework developed through DE, DoH and PHA has been published in recognition of the growing numbers of children and young people presenting with increasing levels of mental health issues. Joint funding of £6.5m has been secured through DE and DoH to support implementation of the framework.\n\nFinally it is important to note that mental health services are available to anyone that requires support and this has continued throughout the pandemic.","answerHtml":"Support services for students are primarily a matter for the Department for the Economy, however the health system is collaborating with higher education bodies to improve mental health outcomes for students.
The Department for Health published a Mental Health Strategy for Northern Ireland 2021-2031 on the 29th June 2021. There is clear evidence that the student population in Northern Ireland is vulnerable to mental ill health. It is important that we continue to work across government and sectors to intervene early to provide support to help students stay emotionally well and build resilience to support them in their learning journeys and lives beyond. The Strategy recognises the need to ensure that this group is targeted for preventative work and early intervention.
Action 8 of the Mental Health Strategy commits to the creation of a dedicated resource for student mental health across tertiary education through the existing delivery of mental health services.
The Belfast Health and Social Care Trust is part resourcing a pilot with Queens University Belfast and the University Of Ulster for students with a term time Belfast post code to provide a dedicated and responsive student mental health service, with the aim of better engagement and better clinical outcomes through early intervention. The project has completed year 2 and is being funded for a further year.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is working, on behalf of Department of Health (DoH), to increase the uptake of COVID-19 vaccinations in young people, with a key focus on students in further and higher education. Increasing the vaccination levels in the student population will reduce isolation and the mental health impacts of pandemic by supporting on campus learning and social opportunities.
The PHA is working with the Student Wellbeing Services in QUB and UU to develop wellbeing initiatives to support students during the academic year 2021/22. Each university has assessed the needs of their students and has submitted a proposal for funding programmes and resources they have identified as a priority for the coming year. Funding of £30,000 is available in year for each university. The funding includes support for programmes such as:
Mind your mood activities aligned to Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing;
A “Be Active” mental health referral programme;
A “Power Up & Get Connected” campaign targeting young men who are known to the university wellbeing team but are known not to be engaging with services; and
Support for Mind you Mood Student Ambassadors.
The PHA is also a member of the Student Wellbeing Networking Forum, which provides an opportunity for those involved in student wellbeing services in further and higher education to link and network with those involved in mental health and wellbeing services.
PHA annually funds the design, update and printing of the ‘Minding Your Head: Student Guide to Mental Health’. Printing has temporarily been stopped due to covid, however the resource is updated annually and shared with all new and current students in Universities and FE Colleges across NI. This is available online: Mind Your Head Booklet 09_20 final.pdf (hscni.net).
An Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework developed through DE, DoH and PHA has been published in recognition of the growing numbers of children and young people presenting with increasing levels of mental health issues. Joint funding of £6.5m has been secured through DE and DoH to support implementation of the framework.
Finally it is important to note that mental health services are available to anyone that requires support and this has continued throughout the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026001%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358315","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358315"}},{"id":"358314","reference":"AQW 26000/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-18","answerBy":"2021-12-03","answered":"2021-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what action she is taking to ensure there is a transformation of the school curriculum to deliver the necessary awareness, skills development and knowledge nurtured to meet future environmental needs.","answerText":"Education for sustainable development, which includes teaching about environmental issues, is a key statutory element of the curriculum. The curriculum encourages customised approaches by schools to ensure that our young people are well informed about all the issues they face in a modern society, which enables them to make informed choices and decisions throughout their lives.\n\nIn primary schools, pupils have the opportunity to develop their knowledge, skills and critical thinking regarding past, current and future, local and global issues, including those related to the environment. Pupils are encouraged to become personally, emotionally and socially effective to lead safe and fulfilled lives and become confident, independent and responsible citizens within society.\n\nAt Key Stage 3, pupils are provided opportunities to develop their knowledge to support their awareness and skills to meet future orientated and environmental needs. Pupils learn about the interdependence of society, the economy, and the environment; develop respect for the needs of both present and future generations; demonstrate how action can help improve the quality of life for people, locally and globally; and exercise environmental responsibility through conservation of resources, waste management and promotion of biodiversity.\n\nThe Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment provides a range of resources to support curriculum delivery, which are designed to raise awareness of environmental issues and are available on their website.\n\nThere are also a number of qualifications at Key Stage 4 and post-16 that provide opportunities for students to explore environmental issues and further develop their understanding and skills.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Executive commitment in the New Decade, New Approach agreement signalled its intention to develop a strategy to address immediate and longer term impacts. My Department will support the development of the strategy and any educational outcomes arising from this work.","answerHtml":"Education for sustainable development, which includes teaching about environmental issues, is a key statutory element of the curriculum. The curriculum encourages customised approaches by schools to ensure that our young people are well informed about all the issues they face in a modern society, which enables them to make informed choices and decisions throughout their lives.
In primary schools, pupils have the opportunity to develop their knowledge, skills and critical thinking regarding past, current and future, local and global issues, including those related to the environment. Pupils are encouraged to become personally, emotionally and socially effective to lead safe and fulfilled lives and become confident, independent and responsible citizens within society.
At Key Stage 3, pupils are provided opportunities to develop their knowledge to support their awareness and skills to meet future orientated and environmental needs. Pupils learn about the interdependence of society, the economy, and the environment; develop respect for the needs of both present and future generations; demonstrate how action can help improve the quality of life for people, locally and globally; and exercise environmental responsibility through conservation of resources, waste management and promotion of biodiversity.
The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment provides a range of resources to support curriculum delivery, which are designed to raise awareness of environmental issues and are available on their website.
There are also a number of qualifications at Key Stage 4 and post-16 that provide opportunities for students to explore environmental issues and further develop their understanding and skills.
The Northern Ireland Executive commitment in the New Decade, New Approach agreement signalled its intention to develop a strategy to address immediate and longer term impacts. My Department will support the development of the strategy and any educational outcomes arising from this work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026000%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358314"}},{"id":"358313","reference":"AQW 25999/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-18","answerBy":"2021-12-03","answered":"2021-11-30","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 action he is taking to ensure there is a transformation of further and higher education curriculum to deliver the necessary green transformation needed to meet future environmental needs.","answerText":"The Department for the Economy provides funding and sets out the strategic direction for Further Education (FE) colleges and Northern Ireland’s Higher Education sector. Whilst FE colleges are Non-Departmental Public Bodies for which the Department approves business plans in-light of Departmental and Executive wide objectives, the Universities are autonomous institutions and are therefore entirely responsible for the curriculum they offer.\n\nFE colleges are already delivering curriculum to meet future environmental needs. Some examples of transformational work recently undertaken in the FE sector include, but are not limited to - a new online Sustainability Induction Module for students at all levels to inform them of the College strategy at South West College, the ten ‘One Planet Living Principles’ and prevalent environmental issues with proposed interventions; the delivery of courses to the Motor Vehicle and Transport Industries on Hybrid and Electric driven vehicles from Level 1 to Level 4 at South Eastern Regional College; and ongoing work between Belfast Metropolitan College and NIHE to explore new skills requirements including the opportunity to develop new apprenticeships for the future retrofitting programmes.\n\nAdditionally, the Curriculum Hubs established in the FE Sector in a range of occupational areas, focusing on priority skills and growth sectors of employment, seek to ensure that the curriculum delivered is consistent, current, and responsive to the needs and future demands of industry, improving economic development and performance in each area. The Education and Training Inspectorate are currently evaluating the Curriculum Hub concept and any way forward will be fully aligned to the Skills Strategy and the 10X Economy Vision, which clearly articulates the importance of the green transformation needed to meet future environmental needs.","answerHtml":"The Department for the Economy provides funding and sets out the strategic direction for Further Education (FE) colleges and Northern Ireland’s Higher Education sector. Whilst FE colleges are Non-Departmental Public Bodies for which the Department approves business plans in-light of Departmental and Executive wide objectives, the Universities are autonomous institutions and are therefore entirely responsible for the curriculum they offer.
FE colleges are already delivering curriculum to meet future environmental needs. Some examples of transformational work recently undertaken in the FE sector include, but are not limited to - a new online Sustainability Induction Module for students at all levels to inform them of the College strategy at South West College, the ten ‘One Planet Living Principles’ and prevalent environmental issues with proposed interventions; the delivery of courses to the Motor Vehicle and Transport Industries on Hybrid and Electric driven vehicles from Level 1 to Level 4 at South Eastern Regional College; and ongoing work between Belfast Metropolitan College and NIHE to explore new skills requirements including the opportunity to develop new apprenticeships for the future retrofitting programmes.
Additionally, the Curriculum Hubs established in the FE Sector in a range of occupational areas, focusing on priority skills and growth sectors of employment, seek to ensure that the curriculum delivered is consistent, current, and responsive to the needs and future demands of industry, improving economic development and performance in each area. The Education and Training Inspectorate are currently evaluating the Curriculum Hub concept and any way forward will be fully aligned to the Skills Strategy and the 10X Economy Vision, which clearly articulates the importance of the green transformation needed to meet future environmental needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025999%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358313","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358313"}},{"id":"358312","reference":"AQW 25998/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-18","answerBy":"2021-12-03","answered":"2021-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what plans are being considered in her Department for a student renters bill.","answerText":"The Department for Communities does not have responsibility for student accommodation however many students choose to live in the private rented sector.\n\nThe Private Tenancies Bill will address issues faced by all tenants living in the private rented sector such as affordability, safety, and notice to quit periods.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities does not have responsibility for student accommodation however many students choose to live in the private rented sector.
The Private Tenancies Bill will address issues faced by all tenants living in the private rented sector such as affordability, safety, and notice to quit periods.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025998%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358312","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358312"}},{"id":"358311","reference":"AQW 25997/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-18","answerBy":"2021-12-03","answered":"2021-12-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what action she is taking to prevent private landlords from denying students access to accommodation on the basis they are under 25 years old and not in full time work.","answerText":"The Department for Communities has not been made aware of any cases where students have been denied accommodation on this basis. If the member is aware of specific situations this should be reported to the appropriate authority.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities has not been made aware of any cases where students have been denied accommodation on this basis. If the member is aware of specific situations this should be reported to the appropriate authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025997%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358311","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358311"}},{"id":"360646","reference":"AQO 2803/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-18","answerBy":"2021-11-29","answered":"2021-12-06","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, given that the Good Relations Indicators for 2020 have not been published, for their assessment of the impact this will have on strategic planning and investment for community cohesion measures in the multi-year budget.","answerText":"We look forward to the publication of Good Relations Indicators in early 2022. We welcome steps towards a three year budget, however allocation of funding for the good relations strategy will continue to be based on number of factors including: assessment of need; engaging with data pre-publication; analysis of trends in data over previous years; programme evaluation; and in-year assessments. The Indicators will continue to play an important role in that process.\n\nWe remain fully committed to good relations work and look forward to further progress in the future.","answerHtml":"We look forward to the publication of Good Relations Indicators in early 2022. We welcome steps towards a three year budget, however allocation of funding for the good relations strategy will continue to be based on number of factors including: assessment of need; engaging with data pre-publication; analysis of trends in data over previous years; programme evaluation; and in-year assessments. The Indicators will continue to play an important role in that process.
We remain fully committed to good relations work and look forward to further progress in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202803%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360646","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360646"}},{"id":"358099","reference":"AQW 25927/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-17","answerBy":"2021-12-02","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how he is working with the Minister for Communities to ensure the Energy Enforcement Certificates being brought forward through the Private Tenancies Bill (NIA Bill 32/17-22) will be included in the Energy Strategy that his Department is bringing forward.","answerText":"The Energy Strategy covers the full breath of energy policy across government, and the Department for Communities have been closely involved in this work.\n\nThe recent consultation on policy options for the upcoming energy strategy sought views on whether minimum energy efficiency standards should be set to drive improvements in building stock. It also asked consultees to consider which types of buildings should be early priorities and identified the private rented sector as a potential option. The consultation ended on 2 July.\n\nI understand that, as part of their work on the Private Tenancies Bill, the Department for Communities are currently exploring mechanisms for setting energy standards for the private rented sector. Officials in my Department are working closely with DfC colleagues on this matter.","answerHtml":"The Energy Strategy covers the full breath of energy policy across government, and the Department for Communities have been closely involved in this work.
The recent consultation on policy options for the upcoming energy strategy sought views on whether minimum energy efficiency standards should be set to drive improvements in building stock. It also asked consultees to consider which types of buildings should be early priorities and identified the private rented sector as a potential option. The consultation ended on 2 July.
I understand that, as part of their work on the Private Tenancies Bill, the Department for Communities are currently exploring mechanisms for setting energy standards for the private rented sector. Officials in my Department are working closely with DfC colleagues on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025927%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358099","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358099"}},{"id":"358098","reference":"AQW 25926/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-17","answerBy":"2021-12-02","answered":"2021-11-29","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 (i) when the level of student finance was last reviewed; and (ii) when the level will be reviewed to take account of the increasing cost of living that is impacting students across Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The last full scale review of higher education student support was undertaken in 2011 - The Independent Review of Variable Fees and Student Finance Arrangement. Since then, my Department has undertaken a number of separate reviews into student support.\n\nIn 2015, the Department undertook a review into postgraduate and part-time student finance, extending the student support package in 2017/18 to make tuition fee loans available for part-time undergraduates and postgraduate students for the first time.\n\nMy Department recently published a public consultation which explored both the level of funding available for postgraduate tuition fee support and the potential for maintenance support for postgraduate students. My Department is currently considering the responses to that consultation and I hope to publish a formal response in the coming months. However, any outcomes, particularly in relation to the levels of financial support available, will be dependent on the funding that is available to my Department over the coming years.\n\nOfficials are also currently reviewing part-time student support to assess whether it is still relevant and fit for purpose. Options for a way forward are being developed which may result in a public consultation in due course.\n\nIn addition, my officials are looking to bring forward a proposal around reviewing the whole student support landscape for my consideration. I await sight of their proposed approach, which will likely include consideration of the maintenance support package currently provided to Northern Ireland students. Any outcomes, particularly in relation to the levels of financial support available, will be dependent on the funding that is available to my Department over the coming years.","answerHtml":"The last full scale review of higher education student support was undertaken in 2011 - The Independent Review of Variable Fees and Student Finance Arrangement. Since then, my Department has undertaken a number of separate reviews into student support.
In 2015, the Department undertook a review into postgraduate and part-time student finance, extending the student support package in 2017/18 to make tuition fee loans available for part-time undergraduates and postgraduate students for the first time.
My Department recently published a public consultation which explored both the level of funding available for postgraduate tuition fee support and the potential for maintenance support for postgraduate students. My Department is currently considering the responses to that consultation and I hope to publish a formal response in the coming months. However, any outcomes, particularly in relation to the levels of financial support available, will be dependent on the funding that is available to my Department over the coming years.
Officials are also currently reviewing part-time student support to assess whether it is still relevant and fit for purpose. Options for a way forward are being developed which may result in a public consultation in due course.
In addition, my officials are looking to bring forward a proposal around reviewing the whole student support landscape for my consideration. I await sight of their proposed approach, which will likely include consideration of the maintenance support package currently provided to Northern Ireland students. Any outcomes, particularly in relation to the levels of financial support available, will be dependent on the funding that is available to my Department over the coming years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025926%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358098","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358098"}},{"id":"357631","reference":"AQW 25765/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-15","answerBy":"2021-11-30","answered":"2021-11-24","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 whether he will continue to provide funding to support Smartpass use on Community Transport over the three annual budgets from April 2022.","answerText":"While the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has responsibility for rural transport matters, officials in my Department has been collaborating with DfI over many years to enhance transportation services in rural areas to address a range of poverty, social isolation and health and well-being issues.\n\nTherefore my Department will continue to provide funding to support Smartpass usage on Community Transport services over the three annual budgets from April 2022, subject to confirmation of an appropriate Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Programme budget.","answerHtml":"While the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has responsibility for rural transport matters, officials in my Department has been collaborating with DfI over many years to enhance transportation services in rural areas to address a range of poverty, social isolation and health and well-being issues.
Therefore my Department will continue to provide funding to support Smartpass usage on Community Transport services over the three annual budgets from April 2022, subject to confirmation of an appropriate Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Programme budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025765%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357631","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357631"}},{"id":"357630","reference":"AQW 25764/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-15","answerBy":"2021-11-30","answered":"2021-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) whether local councils are responsible for sweeping roads; and (ii) if so, what action she has taken to ensure they are aware of this legal responsibility and the repercussions for failing to maintain cleanliness of roads, particularly in rural areas.","answerText":"I understand that, under the terms of the Litter (Northern Ireland) Order 1994 and the Clean Neighbour Act 2011, Councils are responsible for collection of waste and litter in the borough, including street sweeping. This includes the provision of safe systems of work, including appropriate temporary traffic management for council workers such as those sweeping and picking litter.\n\nA lack of street cleansing allows a build-up of detritus on footways and cycle ways, which may deter usage. A build-up of detritus along the channel line of a road, especially on kerbed rural roads, reduces the performance of the drainage system, and can also increase the risk of ice forming in winter conditions. It also promotes weed growth along kerb lines.\n\nWhile my Department would encourage Councils to undertake the necessary work it is not for me to advise Councils of their statutory obligations. My Department does however take every opportunity to inform the Council of instances when suitable temporary traffic management is being used on the road which might assist Council in the carrying out of their sweeping duties.","answerHtml":"I understand that, under the terms of the Litter (Northern Ireland) Order 1994 and the Clean Neighbour Act 2011, Councils are responsible for collection of waste and litter in the borough, including street sweeping. This includes the provision of safe systems of work, including appropriate temporary traffic management for council workers such as those sweeping and picking litter.
A lack of street cleansing allows a build-up of detritus on footways and cycle ways, which may deter usage. A build-up of detritus along the channel line of a road, especially on kerbed rural roads, reduces the performance of the drainage system, and can also increase the risk of ice forming in winter conditions. It also promotes weed growth along kerb lines.
While my Department would encourage Councils to undertake the necessary work it is not for me to advise Councils of their statutory obligations. My Department does however take every opportunity to inform the Council of instances when suitable temporary traffic management is being used on the road which might assist Council in the carrying out of their sweeping duties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025764%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357630","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357630"}},{"id":"357629","reference":"AQW 25763/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-15","answerBy":"2021-11-30","answered":"2021-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how much it costs to permit private companies to host transfer test providers in schools that are in receipt of public funding paid from her Department, in (i) 2019; and (ii) 2020.","answerText":"The Department does not hold this information.\n\nSuch operational arrangements are a matter for the test providers and the post primary schools that use the results of the tests in their admissions criteria.","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold this information.
Such operational arrangements are a matter for the test providers and the post primary schools that use the results of the tests in their admissions criteria.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025763%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357629","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357629"}},{"id":"357628","reference":"AQW 25762/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-15","answerBy":"2021-11-30","answered":"2022-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how her Department encourages and facilitates irish-medium education.","answerText":"I, and my officials, take very seriously the statutory duty to encourage and facilitate the development of Irish-medium education and this manifests in a range of actions, funding support and policy adaptations for the sector.\n\nMy Department’s aim is to respond positively to parental demand for Irish-medium provision, for example in home to school transport policy, and in considering temporary variations and Development Proposals for the Irish-medium sector.\n\nThe Irish-medium pre-school sector is supported and developed through the provision of a pre-school support service funded by my Department. This service provides Early Years Specialist support and training to the staff and management committees of Irish-medium pre-school settings; development of advice, guidance and resources; and representation of the Irish-medium pre-school sector. In addition, since the ‘Sure Start Developmental Programme for 2-3 Year Olds’ was introduced within the Sure Start projects in 2007, provision has extended to include delivery of the Programme within certain Sure Start areas through the medium of Irish, where local demand has been established.\n\nA further range of bespoke, sector specific investment continues to be provided. This includes annual funding and support to Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta (CnaG) to encourage and promote Irish-medium education, and specific funding to the Education Authority (EA) and CCEA to provide Irish-medium support. The Shared Education and Sectoral Support Team in the EA also work with CnaG to support Irish-medium schools.\n\nWork continues with education partners to address concerns such as teacher supply and to deliver recommendations relating to Irish-medium education contained in “A Fair Start” Action Plan. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, in this financial year my Department has allocated an additional £450k to support language acquisition for pupils in Irish-medium schools and units.\n\nMy Department also requires all its Arm’s Length Bodies to support the delivery of this statutory duty, and to report back on actions taken during the business year.","answerHtml":"I, and my officials, take very seriously the statutory duty to encourage and facilitate the development of Irish-medium education and this manifests in a range of actions, funding support and policy adaptations for the sector.
My Department’s aim is to respond positively to parental demand for Irish-medium provision, for example in home to school transport policy, and in considering temporary variations and Development Proposals for the Irish-medium sector.
The Irish-medium pre-school sector is supported and developed through the provision of a pre-school support service funded by my Department. This service provides Early Years Specialist support and training to the staff and management committees of Irish-medium pre-school settings; development of advice, guidance and resources; and representation of the Irish-medium pre-school sector. In addition, since the ‘Sure Start Developmental Programme for 2-3 Year Olds’ was introduced within the Sure Start projects in 2007, provision has extended to include delivery of the Programme within certain Sure Start areas through the medium of Irish, where local demand has been established.
A further range of bespoke, sector specific investment continues to be provided. This includes annual funding and support to Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta (CnaG) to encourage and promote Irish-medium education, and specific funding to the Education Authority (EA) and CCEA to provide Irish-medium support. The Shared Education and Sectoral Support Team in the EA also work with CnaG to support Irish-medium schools.
Work continues with education partners to address concerns such as teacher supply and to deliver recommendations relating to Irish-medium education contained in “A Fair Start” Action Plan. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, in this financial year my Department has allocated an additional £450k to support language acquisition for pupils in Irish-medium schools and units.
My Department also requires all its Arm’s Length Bodies to support the delivery of this statutory duty, and to report back on actions taken during the business year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025762%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357628","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357628"}},{"id":"357238","reference":"AQW 25641/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-11","answerBy":"2021-11-26","answered":"2021-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how many times utility providers have been asked to return to make good roads they have previously dug up, in the past two years.","answerText":"Utility companies are responsible for the permanent reinstatement of roads to an agreed specification. When utility companies do not reinstate roads in a satisfactory manner, the Department applies the procedures for inspection of reinstatements and for dealing with reinstatement failures as set out in the Northern Ireland Road Authority and Utilities Committee (NIRAUC) Code of Practice for Inspections.\n\nI can confirm there were 1024 failed inspections in 2019/20 and 759 in 2020/21 when a utility company did not carry out a reinstatement to an acceptable standard. The reinstatement defects were notified to the relevant utility company to ensure the necessary remedial works were completed.","answerHtml":"Utility companies are responsible for the permanent reinstatement of roads to an agreed specification. When utility companies do not reinstate roads in a satisfactory manner, the Department applies the procedures for inspection of reinstatements and for dealing with reinstatement failures as set out in the Northern Ireland Road Authority and Utilities Committee (NIRAUC) Code of Practice for Inspections.
I can confirm there were 1024 failed inspections in 2019/20 and 759 in 2020/21 when a utility company did not carry out a reinstatement to an acceptable standard. The reinstatement defects were notified to the relevant utility company to ensure the necessary remedial works were completed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025641%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357238","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357238"}},{"id":"357237","reference":"AQW 25640/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-11","answerBy":"2021-11-26","answered":"2021-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health why patients, who had their hearing loss confirmed at a Health and Social Care Trust hearing clinic, have to see a GP to get a referral to go back to get their hearing and hearing aids checked; and why they cannot contact the clinic directly to arrange appointments.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Trusts’ (HSC) Audiology Service is a lifetime service, which evolves with the service user’s needs. Service users who have had their hearing loss confirmed at an Audiology/ENT Clinic remain patients for life. Direct access for reassessment and ongoing hearing aid care is available via the service user’s HSC Trust Audiology Team.\n\nThose clients who decide against having a hearing device fitted will be discharged from the Audiology Service and a further GP referral will be required to access the service again. A GP referral is also required for those clients who have not worn their hearing aid or attended appointments for repairs or reviews, to ascertain if there have been any significant changes to their health during the interim period.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Trusts’ (HSC) Audiology Service is a lifetime service, which evolves with the service user’s needs. Service users who have had their hearing loss confirmed at an Audiology/ENT Clinic remain patients for life. Direct access for reassessment and ongoing hearing aid care is available via the service user’s HSC Trust Audiology Team.
Those clients who decide against having a hearing device fitted will be discharged from the Audiology Service and a further GP referral will be required to access the service again. A GP referral is also required for those clients who have not worn their hearing aid or attended appointments for repairs or reviews, to ascertain if there have been any significant changes to their health during the interim period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025640%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357237","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357237"}},{"id":"357236","reference":"AQW 25639/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-11","answerBy":"2021-11-26","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many people have contacted the Self Harm Intervention Programme in each Health and Social Care Trust, in each month of the last two years.","answerText":"Individuals who self-harm do not contact the Self-Harm Intervention Programme (SHIP) service directly. All referrals must first be screened/triaged by a mental health professional to ensure that anyone who requires more intensive support by the HSC Trust Mental Health Team is identified and offered the appropriate level of care. Individuals who do not require ongoing support from the Trust Mental Health Service are offered a referral to SHIP.\n\nThe number of referrals per month to the SHIP provider in each Trust area is listed in table 1 below: Data is provided for the period April 2019 until Sept 2021\n\nMonth\tBelfast\t\t\tNorthern\t\t\tSouth Eastern\t\t\tSouthern\t\t\tWestern\n2019-2020\t2020-21\t2021-22\t2019-2020\t2020-21\t2021-22\t2019-2020\t2020-21\t2021-22\t2019-2020\t2020-21\t2021-22\t2019-2020\t2020-21\t2021-22\nApril\t50\t24\t34\t59\t26\t59\t60\t41\t56\t50\t19\t41\t69\t36\t54\nMay\t92\t30\t40\t48\t27\t56\t80\t42\t82\t48\t43\t53\t66\t45\t67\nJune\t86\t51\t57\t56\t33\t64\t72\t64\t86\t50\t35\t58\t73\t48\t73\n\nJuly\t66\t44\t46\t53\t45\t47\t71\t75\t58\t59\t55\t50\t61\t62\t41\nAugust\t53\t41\t35\t49\t34\t34\t45\t65\t47\t42\t30\t36\t46\t41\t56\nSeptember\t70\t41\t53\t48\t44\t47\t72\t66\t44\t36\t27\t47\t54\t64\t76\n\nOctober\t61\t40\t\t67\t52\t\t68\t77\t\t49\t38\t\t57\t65\nNovember\t56\t42\t\t67\t56\t\t88\t68\t\t42\t37\t\t62\t59\nDecember\t69\t39\t\t44\t46\t\t60\t61\t\t31\t34\t\t43\t47\n\nJanuary\t42\t34\t\t60\t37\t\t73\t46\t\t35\t44\t\t69\t44\nFebruary\t60\t40\t\t68\t34\t\t70\t47\t\t57\t31\t\t71\t50\nMarch\t49\t39\t\t70\t51\t\t72\t68\t\t38\t40\t\t51\t64\n\nThe SHIP service also offers support to families and carers of individuals who self-harm. Carers requiring support can gain access to this service in a variety of ways including GP and self-referral. During the period 1st April – 31st Sept 2021, 333 carers participated in the family/carer support aspect of the SHIP service. A monthly breakdown by Trust area for carers is not available.","answerHtml":"Individuals who self-harm do not contact the Self-Harm Intervention Programme (SHIP) service directly. All referrals must first be screened/triaged by a mental health professional to ensure that anyone who requires more intensive support by the HSC Trust Mental Health Team is identified and offered the appropriate level of care. Individuals who do not require ongoing support from the Trust Mental Health Service are offered a referral to SHIP.
The number of referrals per month to the SHIP provider in each Trust area is listed in table 1 below: Data is provided for the period April 2019 until Sept 2021
| Month | Belfast | Northern | South Eastern | Southern | Western | ||||||||||
| 2019-2020 | 2020-21 | 2021-22 | 2019-2020 | 2020-21 | 2021-22 | 2019-2020 | 2020-21 | 2021-22 | 2019-2020 | 2020-21 | 2021-22 | 2019-2020 | 2020-21 | 2021-22 | |
| April | 50 | 24 | 34 | 59 | 26 | 59 | 60 | 41 | 56 | 50 | 19 | 41 | 69 | 36 | 54 |
| May | 92 | 30 | 40 | 48 | 27 | 56 | 80 | 42 | 82 | 48 | 43 | 53 | 66 | 45 | 67 |
| June | 86 | 51 | 57 | 56 | 33 | 64 | 72 | 64 | 86 | 50 | 35 | 58 | 73 | 48 | 73 |
| July | 66 | 44 | 46 | 53 | 45 | 47 | 71 | 75 | 58 | 59 | 55 | 50 | 61 | 62 | 41 |
| August | 53 | 41 | 35 | 49 | 34 | 34 | 45 | 65 | 47 | 42 | 30 | 36 | 46 | 41 | 56 |
| September | 70 | 41 | 53 | 48 | 44 | 47 | 72 | 66 | 44 | 36 | 27 | 47 | 54 | 64 | 76 |
| October | 61 | 40 | 67 | 52 | 68 | 77 | 49 | 38 | 57 | 65 | |||||
| November | 56 | 42 | 67 | 56 | 88 | 68 | 42 | 37 | 62 | 59 | |||||
| December | 69 | 39 | 44 | 46 | 60 | 61 | 31 | 34 | 43 | 47 | |||||
| January | 42 | 34 | 60 | 37 | 73 | 46 | 35 | 44 | 69 | 44 | |||||
| February | 60 | 40 | 68 | 34 | 70 | 47 | 57 | 31 | 71 | 50 | |||||
| March | 49 | 39 | 70 | 51 | 72 | 68 | 38 | 40 | 51 | 64 |
The SHIP service also offers support to families and carers of individuals who self-harm. Carers requiring support can gain access to this service in a variety of ways including GP and self-referral. During the period 1st April – 31st Sept 2021, 333 carers participated in the family/carer support aspect of the SHIP service. A monthly breakdown by Trust area for carers is not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025639%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357236","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357236"}},{"id":"357235","reference":"AQW 25638/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-11","answerBy":"2021-11-26","answered":"2022-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many people who have contacted the Self Harm Intervention Programme are awaiting access to support in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust; and how long has each person been waiting for an appointment.","answerText":"The Self-Harm Improvement Programme (SHIP) is set up to provide a prompt response to individuals who self-harm that have been referred to the service. The service specification requires that all individuals who are referred are contacted within 24 hours and offered a first appointment within one week. In some cases the date and time offered do not suit the individual and they request a specific time slot. Where this arises the first appointment may not be within the 7 day window.\n\nAs of Monday 15th November the current figures in the South Eastern HSC Trust area are:\n\n19 people are waiting for their first appointment to take place.\n\n9 people out of 19 have been allocated to a specific counsellor and have been given a date for their first appointment but it has not yet taken place.\n\n10 people have not yet been allocated a counsellor /date. Waiting times from referral for these 19 people are as follows:\n\nWaiting Time (weeks)\tHave been given an appointment but appointment not yet taken place\tNot yet been allocated a counsellor / given a date\tTOTAL\n<1 week\t6\t0\t6\n1-2 weeks\t2\t2\t4\n2-3 weeks\t1\t2\t3\n3-4 weeks\t\t3\t3\n4-5 weeks\t\t1\t1\n5- 8 weeks\t\t0\t0\n9-12 weeks\t\t2 (89 days, 90 days)*\t2\n9\t10\t19\n\n*Both clients were offered virtual appointments within 7 days. However both clients have opted not to take up the virtual appointments and requested to remain on the waiting list to such times that face to face counselling would become available. The service provider is in the process of phasing in face to face counselling over the coming weeks; therefore the 2 individuals will be offered a face to face appointment within this timeframe.","answerHtml":"The Self-Harm Improvement Programme (SHIP) is set up to provide a prompt response to individuals who self-harm that have been referred to the service. The service specification requires that all individuals who are referred are contacted within 24 hours and offered a first appointment within one week. In some cases the date and time offered do not suit the individual and they request a specific time slot. Where this arises the first appointment may not be within the 7 day window.
As of Monday 15th November the current figures in the South Eastern HSC Trust area are:
19 people are waiting for their first appointment to take place.
9 people out of 19 have been allocated to a specific counsellor and have been given a date for their first appointment but it has not yet taken place.
10 people have not yet been allocated a counsellor /date. Waiting times from referral for these 19 people are as follows:
| Waiting Time (weeks) | Have been given an appointment but appointment not yet taken place | Not yet been allocated a counsellor / given a date | TOTAL |
| <1 week | 6 | 0 | 6 |
| 1-2 weeks | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| 2-3 weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| 3-4 weeks | 3 | 3 | |
| 4-5 weeks | 1 | 1 | |
| 5- 8 weeks | 0 | 0 | |
| 9-12 weeks | 2 (89 days, 90 days)* | 2 | |
| 9 | 10 | 19 |
*Both clients were offered virtual appointments within 7 days. However both clients have opted not to take up the virtual appointments and requested to remain on the waiting list to such times that face to face counselling would become available. The service provider is in the process of phasing in face to face counselling over the coming weeks; therefore the 2 individuals will be offered a face to face appointment within this timeframe.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025638%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357235","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357235"}},{"id":"357234","reference":"AQW 25637/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-11","answerBy":"2021-11-26","answered":"2022-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what information has been provided to GPs to increase awareness of the Self Harm Intervention Programme.","answerText":"GPs cannot directly refer patients who self-harm to the Self Harm Intervention Programme (SHIP). They may however refer families/carers for education and support in relation to caring for a loved one who is self-harming. The carer can receive up to 3 sessions of support.\n\nIn situations where the GP is concerned about an individual who is self-harming, the GP will make a referral to the relevant HSC Trust. The individual will be triaged/assessed by a mental health professional to ensure that anyone who requires more intensive support by the Trusts Mental Health Team is identified and offered the appropriate level of care. Mental health professionals in the 5 HSC Trusts or the Senior Mental Health Practitioner in the practice based multidisciplinary teams may then make the referral to SHIP.\n\nInformation has been provided to GPs and practices about SHIP and other relevant services on a number of occasions via the GP intranet including:\n\nMarch 2017 for Self-Harm Awareness Day\n\nSeptember 2018 for World Suicide Prevention Day.\n\nOctober 2019 for World Mental Health Day.\n\nA leaflet about the SHIP service has also been shared with GPs and practice based mental health professionals.","answerHtml":"GPs cannot directly refer patients who self-harm to the Self Harm Intervention Programme (SHIP). They may however refer families/carers for education and support in relation to caring for a loved one who is self-harming. The carer can receive up to 3 sessions of support.
In situations where the GP is concerned about an individual who is self-harming, the GP will make a referral to the relevant HSC Trust. The individual will be triaged/assessed by a mental health professional to ensure that anyone who requires more intensive support by the Trusts Mental Health Team is identified and offered the appropriate level of care. Mental health professionals in the 5 HSC Trusts or the Senior Mental Health Practitioner in the practice based multidisciplinary teams may then make the referral to SHIP.
Information has been provided to GPs and practices about SHIP and other relevant services on a number of occasions via the GP intranet including:
March 2017 for Self-Harm Awareness Day
September 2018 for World Suicide Prevention Day.
October 2019 for World Mental Health Day.
A leaflet about the SHIP service has also been shared with GPs and practice based mental health professionals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025637%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357234","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357234"}},{"id":"358801","reference":"AQO 2779/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-11","answerBy":"2021-11-22","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she plans to review legislation to extend the timeframe that utility providers can be asked to undertake remedial work to a road from two years to four years.","answerText":"The Street Works (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 forms the legislative framework for street works by statutory undertakers and requires the undertaker to comply with the Specification for the Reinstatement of Openings in Roads.\n\nIf an undertaker does not reinstate the street in a satisfactory manner, my Department applies the procedures as set out in the Code of Practice for Inspections.\n\nUndertakers remain responsible for the permanent reinstatement for a minimum period of two years, increased to three years for a deep excavation.\n\nGiven the existence of the legislation as outlined above, there are no current plans to introduce further legislation in relation to these powers.\n\nI have recently written to utilities asking them to ensure their work, in particular reinstatements, leaves the road network in a safe and serviceable condition.","answerHtml":"The Street Works (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 forms the legislative framework for street works by statutory undertakers and requires the undertaker to comply with the Specification for the Reinstatement of Openings in Roads.
If an undertaker does not reinstate the street in a satisfactory manner, my Department applies the procedures as set out in the Code of Practice for Inspections.
Undertakers remain responsible for the permanent reinstatement for a minimum period of two years, increased to three years for a deep excavation.
Given the existence of the legislation as outlined above, there are no current plans to introduce further legislation in relation to these powers.
I have recently written to utilities asking them to ensure their work, in particular reinstatements, leaves the road network in a safe and serviceable condition.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202779%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358801","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358801"}},{"id":"356818","reference":"AQW 25459/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-09","answerBy":"2021-11-24","answered":"2021-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to publish a copy of the Area Plan report that shows how the Department has met its statutory duty to ‘encourage and facilitate’ integrated education.","answerText":"Providing Pathways is the 1st Strategic Area Plan for education provision, published by the Education Authority (EA) in 2017. Underpinning this are three Annual Action Plans (AAPS) for the years 2017/18, 2018/19 and 2019/20 (now extended to 31 August 2022).\n\nThe AAPs are published at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.eani.org.uk/school-management/area-planning/annual-action-plans\n\nThe EA has overall operational responsibility for planning of provision within the policy and strategic framework set by the Department. It collaborates with the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) as the planning authority for Catholic maintained schools and through engagement with sectoral bodies representative of the integrated, Irish-medium and controlled sectors and with the Voluntary Grammar Schools (VGS), either though representative bodies or individual schools.\n\nMy Department has no role in the planning of provision, but sets the framework by which area planning priorities are developed.\n\nThe three AAPs provide the detail of the workstreams and actions that have been agreed through the Area Planning structures (specifically the Area Planning Local Groups and Area Planning Working Group) and where changes to provision are required, Development Proposals (DPs) are published by the EA.\n\nAt this point the Department is engaged in the assessment of the proposals and recommendations on them are made to me.\n\nWith regard to the statutory duty to encourage and facilitate the development of integrated education, where any of the Department's statutory duties are engaged through the publication of a DP, full consideration is given in the assessment of the proposal and the submission to me and my decisions are published to the Department's website.","answerHtml":"Providing Pathways is the 1st Strategic Area Plan for education provision, published by the Education Authority (EA) in 2017. Underpinning this are three Annual Action Plans (AAPS) for the years 2017/18, 2018/19 and 2019/20 (now extended to 31 August 2022).
The AAPs are published at the following link:
https://www.eani.org.uk/school-management/area-planning/annual-action-plans
The EA has overall operational responsibility for planning of provision within the policy and strategic framework set by the Department. It collaborates with the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) as the planning authority for Catholic maintained schools and through engagement with sectoral bodies representative of the integrated, Irish-medium and controlled sectors and with the Voluntary Grammar Schools (VGS), either though representative bodies or individual schools.
My Department has no role in the planning of provision, but sets the framework by which area planning priorities are developed.
The three AAPs provide the detail of the workstreams and actions that have been agreed through the Area Planning structures (specifically the Area Planning Local Groups and Area Planning Working Group) and where changes to provision are required, Development Proposals (DPs) are published by the EA.
At this point the Department is engaged in the assessment of the proposals and recommendations on them are made to me.
With regard to the statutory duty to encourage and facilitate the development of integrated education, where any of the Department's statutory duties are engaged through the publication of a DP, full consideration is given in the assessment of the proposal and the submission to me and my decisions are published to the Department's website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025459%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356818"}},{"id":"356817","reference":"AQW 25458/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-09","answerBy":"2021-11-24","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what her Department is doing to address the staff shortages in Special Schools.","answerText":"I am aware that all special schools are currently facing staffing pressures, due to a range of factors, including COVID-19.\n\nMy officials continue to meet regularly with the Special Schools Strategic Leadership Group and individual schools, to ensure that issues are considered and addressed where possible.\n\nThe Education Authority (EA) has adopted a collaborative approach to monitor and address the staffing challenges. Designated officers from both the EA Emergency Resourcing and the Special School Support Team continue to liaise with individual schools to ascertain the level of challenge and provide support, where required.\n\nIn relation to teaching staff shortages, schools have been provided with refined lists of available NISTR teachers by geographical area who have expressed an interest in and / or experience of working with children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and / or complex needs.\n\nThe EA is also delivering a targeted approach for the availability of Classroom Assistants, a relief register has been refined with focus on appropriate qualifications and experience of working within children / young people with SEN. In addition there is also a relief register available for cleaning and facilities staff if required.\n\nMy key priority is ensuring that all schools remain open in the best interests of children / young people and that they remain safe. I have asked officials to keep me regularly updated in relation to this issue.","answerHtml":"I am aware that all special schools are currently facing staffing pressures, due to a range of factors, including COVID-19.
My officials continue to meet regularly with the Special Schools Strategic Leadership Group and individual schools, to ensure that issues are considered and addressed where possible.
The Education Authority (EA) has adopted a collaborative approach to monitor and address the staffing challenges. Designated officers from both the EA Emergency Resourcing and the Special School Support Team continue to liaise with individual schools to ascertain the level of challenge and provide support, where required.
In relation to teaching staff shortages, schools have been provided with refined lists of available NISTR teachers by geographical area who have expressed an interest in and / or experience of working with children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and / or complex needs.
The EA is also delivering a targeted approach for the availability of Classroom Assistants, a relief register has been refined with focus on appropriate qualifications and experience of working within children / young people with SEN. In addition there is also a relief register available for cleaning and facilities staff if required.
My key priority is ensuring that all schools remain open in the best interests of children / young people and that they remain safe. I have asked officials to keep me regularly updated in relation to this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025458%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356817"}},{"id":"356816","reference":"AQW 25457/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-09","answerBy":"2021-11-24","answered":"2021-12-30","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 work being completed by or funded by their Department on the anti-paramilitary strategy or anti-paramilitary action plans.","answerText":"The Executive Office has lead responsibility for 4 Actions contained within the Executive’s Tackling Paramilitary Activity, Criminality and Organised Crime Programme. These are Actions B1, B2, B3 and B4. The Executive Office also has joint responsibility for Action A9 (along with the Department of Justice).\n\nAction B1 is separated into three sub-actions and called on the Executive to adopt recommendations by the Review Panel that:\n\nthe Fair Employment and Treatment Order 1998 (FETO) should be\n\namended;\n\nthe employers’ guidance should be implemented in respect of public\n\nsector recruitment and vetting; and\n\n(c) there should be greater transparency over all these issues.\n\nOn Action B1(a), we are currently considering options on how best to make this amendment to FETO.\n\nOn Action B1(b), the employers guidance has been implemented in respect of recent NI Civil Service recruitment competitions. Moreover, correspondence has been sent to all Councils in NI encouraging them to adopt the guidance in terms of their own recruitment practices.\n\nOn Action B1(c), the Review Panel has developed and launched a website to promote its work and has held a series of outreach and engagement events. The Review Panel plans to publish their third report in early 2022.\n\nAction B2 asked that The Review Panel continue to consider what steps can be taken to improve access to financial services (including lending and insurance), adoption and travel advice for members of the ex-Prisoner community.\n\nThe Review Panel continues to consider these issues and to advocate on behalf of individuals who have experienced challenges related to any of these matters.\n\nProgress has been made on improving access to financial services. Through direct engagement with representatives of the British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA) and the Association of British Insurers (ABI), an updated list of insurers has been prepared which outlines those insurance providers who will provide insurance products to those within the ex-prisoner community.\n\nAction B3 called for the Executive to make representations to the US Secretary of State to seek an expedited procedure for visa applications from ex-prisoners affiliated with groups on ceasefire.\n\nDuring the period in which there was no Executive, this Action could not be progressed and the opportunities to raise this since have been limited.\n\nIn the interim, the Review Panel has made successful representations for individuals who have encountered travel difficulties.\n\nAction B4 is also known as the ‘Communities in Transition’ Project. The Communities in Transition Project is designed to support and empower those communities which have been most impacted by paramilitarism, criminality and ongoing coercive control and therefore operates in 8 geographic areas where residual paramilitary activity and associated criminality continues to have a negative impact on communities.\n\nDuring its first phase of activity (December 2019 to June 2021) the Project supported 34 individual interventions covering a variety of themes in these areas with a supporting budget of approximately £8.5m.\n\nThe Project has now moved to its second phase of activity. In June 2021 an open procurement process commenced to award an initial tranche of project contracts for this phase. This resulted in the award of 22 new projects in July 2021. Further projects are planned to be brought forward in the coming weeks include further support for young people, employability, and a second phase of the regional restorative practice project.\n\nThe Communities in Transition Project will be supported for a further three financial years (2021-22, 2022-23 and 2023-24) with a contribution of £10m from NDNA.\n\nAction A9 commits The Executive Office to put in place a long-term, dedicated fund for restorative justice initiatives. This fund is also required to resource the proposal for a Centre of Restorative Excellence (CORE) for NI. The Executive Office leads on the creation of the fund, while the Department of Justice (DOJ) leads on the work in relation to a CORE. A CORE Working Group has recently been re-constituted and is currently working through a schedule of work to assist with its design, on a multi-agency basis. Our officials keep in regular contact with DoJ officials and are represented on this Working Group.\n\nThe creation of a fund will be an important aspect of the overall plan to ensure that a CORE can be set up and operationally viable moving forward. TEO officials are developing an options paper on funding to accompany the establishment of a CORE.","answerHtml":"The Executive Office has lead responsibility for 4 Actions contained within the Executive’s Tackling Paramilitary Activity, Criminality and Organised Crime Programme. These are Actions B1, B2, B3 and B4. The Executive Office also has joint responsibility for Action A9 (along with the Department of Justice).
Action B1 is separated into three sub-actions and called on the Executive to adopt recommendations by the Review Panel that:
the Fair Employment and Treatment Order 1998 (FETO) should be
amended;
the employers’ guidance should be implemented in respect of public
sector recruitment and vetting; and
(c) there should be greater transparency over all these issues.
On Action B1(a), we are currently considering options on how best to make this amendment to FETO.
On Action B1(b), the employers guidance has been implemented in respect of recent NI Civil Service recruitment competitions. Moreover, correspondence has been sent to all Councils in NI encouraging them to adopt the guidance in terms of their own recruitment practices.
On Action B1(c), the Review Panel has developed and launched a website to promote its work and has held a series of outreach and engagement events. The Review Panel plans to publish their third report in early 2022.
Action B2 asked that The Review Panel continue to consider what steps can be taken to improve access to financial services (including lending and insurance), adoption and travel advice for members of the ex-Prisoner community.
The Review Panel continues to consider these issues and to advocate on behalf of individuals who have experienced challenges related to any of these matters.
Progress has been made on improving access to financial services. Through direct engagement with representatives of the British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA) and the Association of British Insurers (ABI), an updated list of insurers has been prepared which outlines those insurance providers who will provide insurance products to those within the ex-prisoner community.
Action B3 called for the Executive to make representations to the US Secretary of State to seek an expedited procedure for visa applications from ex-prisoners affiliated with groups on ceasefire.
During the period in which there was no Executive, this Action could not be progressed and the opportunities to raise this since have been limited.
In the interim, the Review Panel has made successful representations for individuals who have encountered travel difficulties.
Action B4 is also known as the ‘Communities in Transition’ Project. The Communities in Transition Project is designed to support and empower those communities which have been most impacted by paramilitarism, criminality and ongoing coercive control and therefore operates in 8 geographic areas where residual paramilitary activity and associated criminality continues to have a negative impact on communities.
During its first phase of activity (December 2019 to June 2021) the Project supported 34 individual interventions covering a variety of themes in these areas with a supporting budget of approximately £8.5m.
The Project has now moved to its second phase of activity. In June 2021 an open procurement process commenced to award an initial tranche of project contracts for this phase. This resulted in the award of 22 new projects in July 2021. Further projects are planned to be brought forward in the coming weeks include further support for young people, employability, and a second phase of the regional restorative practice project.
The Communities in Transition Project will be supported for a further three financial years (2021-22, 2022-23 and 2023-24) with a contribution of £10m from NDNA.
Action A9 commits The Executive Office to put in place a long-term, dedicated fund for restorative justice initiatives. This fund is also required to resource the proposal for a Centre of Restorative Excellence (CORE) for NI. The Executive Office leads on the creation of the fund, while the Department of Justice (DOJ) leads on the work in relation to a CORE. A CORE Working Group has recently been re-constituted and is currently working through a schedule of work to assist with its design, on a multi-agency basis. Our officials keep in regular contact with DoJ officials and are represented on this Working Group.
The creation of a fund will be an important aspect of the overall plan to ensure that a CORE can be set up and operationally viable moving forward. TEO officials are developing an options paper on funding to accompany the establishment of a CORE.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025457%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356816","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356816"}},{"id":"356815","reference":"AQW 25456/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-09","answerBy":"2021-11-24","answered":"2021-11-17","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 when the 2020 Good Relations Strategy Report will be published.","answerText":"The Together: Building United Communities (T:BUC) Annual Update Report details delivery across all headline actions and wider Good Relations Programmes which contribute to achieving the aims set out in the Executive’s T:BUC Strategy.\n\nOfficials are currently in the final stages of developing the 2020/21 Report with the aim of publishing before year end.","answerHtml":"The Together: Building United Communities (T:BUC) Annual Update Report details delivery across all headline actions and wider Good Relations Programmes which contribute to achieving the aims set out in the Executive’s T:BUC Strategy.
Officials are currently in the final stages of developing the 2020/21 Report with the aim of publishing before year end.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025456%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356815","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356815"}},{"id":"356814","reference":"AQW 25455/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-09","answerBy":"2021-11-24","answered":"2021-12-09","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 to outline the outcomes achieved by the Communities in Transition Programme .","answerText":"The Communities in Transition Project is a significant community facing aspect of the Executive’s Action Plan on Tackling Paramilitary Activity, Criminality and Organised Crime.\n\nThe Communities in Transition Project is designed to support and empower those communities which have been most impacted by paramilitarism, criminality and ongoing coercive control, and therefore operates in 8 geographic areas where residual paramilitary activity and associated criminality continues to have a negative impact on communities. These are:\n\nShankill (including Woodvale);\n\nEast Belfast (The Mount & Ballymacarrett);\n\nNorth Belfast (New Lodge & Ardoyne);\n\nLurgan/Craigavon (Kilwilkie & Drumgask);\n\nCarrickfergus/Larne (Northland & Castlemara and Antiville & Kilwaughter);\n\nNorth Down (Kilcooley & Rathgill);\n\nDerry~Londonderry (Brandywell & Creggan); and\n\nWest Belfast (Lower Falls, Twinbrook, Poleglass, Upper Springfield, Turf Lodge & Ballymurphy).\n\nDuring its first phase of activity (December 2019 to June 2021) the Project supported 34 individual interventions covering a variety of themes in these areas, with a supporting budget of approximately £8.5 million.\n\nWith such a breadth of activity, we shall focus on a number of significant outcomes.\n\nIn Derry~Londonderry, an employability programme has been delivered. This programme was focussed on those deemed to be most at risk of being drawn into paramilitarism or associated criminality. The Programme worked with 66 young people from the area and provided a 24 week paid work placement while also providing wrap-around skills development and mentoring support.\n\nOf the 66 young people who took part in the programme, 59% have gone on to secure immediate full-time employment locally – examples include with a local newspaper, youth clubs, and a range of private businesses.\n\nIn Shankill, through the Arts and Culture theme, a strand of work which was focussed on positive re-imaging of space has resulted in the installation of a new piece of street art. Entitled ‘Night Taxi’, the piece of street art on the end of Enfield Street has attracted widespread recognition at a national level.\n\nThe project worked directly with young people in the area to co-design imagery with world-renowned street artist Dan Kitchener. The final piece is focussed on the hopes and aspirations of young people, particularly broadening their horizons.\n\nIn Lurgan/Craigavon, as part of the Community Safety project a local Community Safety Engagement Forum has been established to help develop relationships between the community and statutory bodies, such as the PSNI, PCSP and Education Authority. This is the first time such a forum has been established in the area and those involved have recognised it as a positive development for the community.\n\nIn its first year of operation, the Forum co-developed a community safety strategy which includes priority issues to address by the various partners.\n\nIn Carrickfergus/Larne, a collaboration of all local delivery partners has resulted in the development of the ‘Be Aware’ campaign. ‘Be Aware’ is a drug awareness campaign and support network in one place. The campaign has a very local focus, taking account of drugs which are particularly prevalent in the area. It has involved local celebrities, influencers and football teams in its promotion.\n\nThrough the project, Extern has run a dedicated addiction and mental health support service in the area which has accepted referrals and provided significant help to those in need.\n\nOn a regional basis, the restorative practice project (entitled STARS – Striving Towards an Active Restorative Society) has had a significant impact in training and developing both statutory and community organisations in restorative practice. During its first phase, STARS has worked with 96 individual organisations (which includes the PSNI, NIHE, community development organisations, schools, youth groups, church groups, etc.) and almost 280 individuals.\n\nIn line with current policy evaluation methods that have been introduced across the Executive, the Communities in Transition Project employs an Outcomes Based Accountability (OBA) methodology. OBA is a system of working and management that aims to improve outcomes for individuals, communities and populations. OBA concentrates on impact, not quantity. However, to understand the impact our projects have, it is still important to show what is being delivered (our outputs or processes) to see what effect they have had (our outcomes). As the Communities in Transition Project is an area-based schemes which is focussed on making a difference within very narrow geographical boundaries, it is specifically focused on ‘project level’ impact as opposed to population impacts.\n\nAdditionally, the Tackling Paramilitarism Programme Team has worked to embed a benefits management approach to monitoring and evaluating the Programme overall going into Phase 2. The Communities in Transition Project will contribute to the ‘Increase in Community Resilience’ intermediary benefit going forward.\n\nA mid-term evaluation of the project was completed in November 2020. The mid-term evaluation noted that positive impact and significant good practice had been delivered during the first phase of the Project, which was particularly impressive as much of this was delivered against the backdrop of the COVID pandemic. The evaluation set out a range of recommendations which are being taken into account within the implementation of phase 2.\n\nThe final evaluation for Phase One of the Communities in Transition project is currently in draft. It has used a blend of qualitative and quantitative methodologies to assess the impact of the project on increasing participation, building skills and confidence and developing collaboration to address issues exploited by paramilitary and organised crime groups.","answerHtml":"The Communities in Transition Project is a significant community facing aspect of the Executive’s Action Plan on Tackling Paramilitary Activity, Criminality and Organised Crime.
The Communities in Transition Project is designed to support and empower those communities which have been most impacted by paramilitarism, criminality and ongoing coercive control, and therefore operates in 8 geographic areas where residual paramilitary activity and associated criminality continues to have a negative impact on communities. These are:
Shankill (including Woodvale);
East Belfast (The Mount & Ballymacarrett);
North Belfast (New Lodge & Ardoyne);
Lurgan/Craigavon (Kilwilkie & Drumgask);
Carrickfergus/Larne (Northland & Castlemara and Antiville & Kilwaughter);
North Down (Kilcooley & Rathgill);
Derry~Londonderry (Brandywell & Creggan); and
West Belfast (Lower Falls, Twinbrook, Poleglass, Upper Springfield, Turf Lodge & Ballymurphy).
During its first phase of activity (December 2019 to June 2021) the Project supported 34 individual interventions covering a variety of themes in these areas, with a supporting budget of approximately £8.5 million.
With such a breadth of activity, we shall focus on a number of significant outcomes.
In Derry~Londonderry, an employability programme has been delivered. This programme was focussed on those deemed to be most at risk of being drawn into paramilitarism or associated criminality. The Programme worked with 66 young people from the area and provided a 24 week paid work placement while also providing wrap-around skills development and mentoring support.
Of the 66 young people who took part in the programme, 59% have gone on to secure immediate full-time employment locally – examples include with a local newspaper, youth clubs, and a range of private businesses.
In Shankill, through the Arts and Culture theme, a strand of work which was focussed on positive re-imaging of space has resulted in the installation of a new piece of street art. Entitled ‘Night Taxi’, the piece of street art on the end of Enfield Street has attracted widespread recognition at a national level.
The project worked directly with young people in the area to co-design imagery with world-renowned street artist Dan Kitchener. The final piece is focussed on the hopes and aspirations of young people, particularly broadening their horizons.
In Lurgan/Craigavon, as part of the Community Safety project a local Community Safety Engagement Forum has been established to help develop relationships between the community and statutory bodies, such as the PSNI, PCSP and Education Authority. This is the first time such a forum has been established in the area and those involved have recognised it as a positive development for the community.
In its first year of operation, the Forum co-developed a community safety strategy which includes priority issues to address by the various partners.
In Carrickfergus/Larne, a collaboration of all local delivery partners has resulted in the development of the ‘Be Aware’ campaign. ‘Be Aware’ is a drug awareness campaign and support network in one place. The campaign has a very local focus, taking account of drugs which are particularly prevalent in the area. It has involved local celebrities, influencers and football teams in its promotion.
Through the project, Extern has run a dedicated addiction and mental health support service in the area which has accepted referrals and provided significant help to those in need.
On a regional basis, the restorative practice project (entitled STARS – Striving Towards an Active Restorative Society) has had a significant impact in training and developing both statutory and community organisations in restorative practice. During its first phase, STARS has worked with 96 individual organisations (which includes the PSNI, NIHE, community development organisations, schools, youth groups, church groups, etc.) and almost 280 individuals.
In line with current policy evaluation methods that have been introduced across the Executive, the Communities in Transition Project employs an Outcomes Based Accountability (OBA) methodology. OBA is a system of working and management that aims to improve outcomes for individuals, communities and populations. OBA concentrates on impact, not quantity. However, to understand the impact our projects have, it is still important to show what is being delivered (our outputs or processes) to see what effect they have had (our outcomes). As the Communities in Transition Project is an area-based schemes which is focussed on making a difference within very narrow geographical boundaries, it is specifically focused on ‘project level’ impact as opposed to population impacts.
Additionally, the Tackling Paramilitarism Programme Team has worked to embed a benefits management approach to monitoring and evaluating the Programme overall going into Phase 2. The Communities in Transition Project will contribute to the ‘Increase in Community Resilience’ intermediary benefit going forward.
A mid-term evaluation of the project was completed in November 2020. The mid-term evaluation noted that positive impact and significant good practice had been delivered during the first phase of the Project, which was particularly impressive as much of this was delivered against the backdrop of the COVID pandemic. The evaluation set out a range of recommendations which are being taken into account within the implementation of phase 2.
The final evaluation for Phase One of the Communities in Transition project is currently in draft. It has used a blend of qualitative and quantitative methodologies to assess the impact of the project on increasing participation, building skills and confidence and developing collaboration to address issues exploited by paramilitary and organised crime groups.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025455%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356814","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356814"}},{"id":"356340","reference":"AQW 25230/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-04","answerBy":"2021-11-19","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy when the extension to neonatal leave and pay for parents of premature babies will be introduced Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Unfortunately, whilst I am sympathetic about this issue, there is not sufficient time remaining to legislate for this in the current mandate.\n\nThe priority for this mandate has been to introduce measures to protect jobs and to aid economic recovery following the devastating effects of Covid-19.\n\nMy other priority is on progressing the Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay Bill. This will be an important new employment right for parents who sadly suffer the loss of a child or still birth.\n\nThe existing employment law framework in Northern Ireland supports eligible employees to balance work with family life and other personal commitments and responsibilities. These include: a right to request flexible working; family-related leave and pay entitlements and protections from detriment for parents who take or seek to take family-related time off work.\n\nI am aware that the UK Government has announced its intention to bring forward a future Employment Bill and that this Bill will introduce a range of enhanced workers’ rights. Whilst there is not time within this mandate to introduce any new primary employment legislation in Northern Ireland, these issues may form part of a wider consideration of employment rights issues in the next mandate. That will be for the Economy Minister at that time to decide upon and prioritise.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately, whilst I am sympathetic about this issue, there is not sufficient time remaining to legislate for this in the current mandate.
The priority for this mandate has been to introduce measures to protect jobs and to aid economic recovery following the devastating effects of Covid-19.
My other priority is on progressing the Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay Bill. This will be an important new employment right for parents who sadly suffer the loss of a child or still birth.
The existing employment law framework in Northern Ireland supports eligible employees to balance work with family life and other personal commitments and responsibilities. These include: a right to request flexible working; family-related leave and pay entitlements and protections from detriment for parents who take or seek to take family-related time off work.
I am aware that the UK Government has announced its intention to bring forward a future Employment Bill and that this Bill will introduce a range of enhanced workers’ rights. Whilst there is not time within this mandate to introduce any new primary employment legislation in Northern Ireland, these issues may form part of a wider consideration of employment rights issues in the next mandate. That will be for the Economy Minister at that time to decide upon and prioritise.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025230%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356340","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356340"}},{"id":"356339","reference":"AQW 25229/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-04","answerBy":"2021-11-19","answered":"2021-11-19","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 introducing a flexible school starting age for children born prematurely.","answerText":"I have launched an eight week public consultation on my Department’s proposals for greater flexibility in regard to school starting age.\n\nChildren born in April, May and June are currently the youngest in the school class. We are proposing that flexibility in regard to school starting age will be available on parental request to any child born between 1 April and 1 July.\n\nParents will be able to defer their child’s entry to pre-school and in turn primary school by 12 months. This means they would then start pre-school in September following their 4th birthday and primary school in September following their 5th birthday.","answerHtml":"I have launched an eight week public consultation on my Department’s proposals for greater flexibility in regard to school starting age.
Children born in April, May and June are currently the youngest in the school class. We are proposing that flexibility in regard to school starting age will be available on parental request to any child born between 1 April and 1 July.
Parents will be able to defer their child’s entry to pre-school and in turn primary school by 12 months. This means they would then start pre-school in September following their 4th birthday and primary school in September following their 5th birthday.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025229%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356339","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356339"}},{"id":"356338","reference":"AQW 25228/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-04","answerBy":"2021-11-19","answered":"2021-11-11","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 recommendation in the Fair Start Report of the need to support premature babies and their families to have better outcomes, what discussions his officials have had with officials in the Department of Education to ensure that the implementation of services will deliver on this recommendation and go beyond current statutory provision.","answerText":"I want to acknowledge the extensive work carried out by the Expert Panel, and welcome their findings. I have met with the Education Minister and DE Officials to discuss the recommendations set out in the Fair Start report. I recognise the importance of early intervention and of supporting children and their families from birth, through those critical first years of life and their longer-term educational development.\n\nI am pleased to note that our Chief Nursing Officers team have been involved both in sharing evidence with the Expert Panel, and in the work currently being progressed to deliver against the action contained in Key Area 1 of the report of the need to support premature babies and their families to have better outcomes.\n\nI look forward in delivering on this recommendation in partnership with DE Officials.","answerHtml":"I want to acknowledge the extensive work carried out by the Expert Panel, and welcome their findings. I have met with the Education Minister and DE Officials to discuss the recommendations set out in the Fair Start report. I recognise the importance of early intervention and of supporting children and their families from birth, through those critical first years of life and their longer-term educational development.
I am pleased to note that our Chief Nursing Officers team have been involved both in sharing evidence with the Expert Panel, and in the work currently being progressed to deliver against the action contained in Key Area 1 of the report of the need to support premature babies and their families to have better outcomes.
I look forward in delivering on this recommendation in partnership with DE Officials.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025228%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356338","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356338"}},{"id":"356158","reference":"AQW 25135/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-03","answerBy":"2021-11-18","answered":"2021-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in relation to the historical context of the Strangford Ferry, why her Department has not installed information panels in the Strangford terminal passenger waiting area or in the passenger compartment of the ferries that tell the history of the ferry crossing and its value to linking communities.","answerText":"Prior to the pandemic officials provided information on the Ferry Service for a heritage project. This has been incorporated into a leaflet which has recently been printed by the Portaferry and Strangford Trust (PaST), and agreement is in place for this to be displayed in the ferry terminal and on both ferries.","answerHtml":"Prior to the pandemic officials provided information on the Ferry Service for a heritage project. This has been incorporated into a leaflet which has recently been printed by the Portaferry and Strangford Trust (PaST), and agreement is in place for this to be displayed in the ferry terminal and on both ferries.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025135%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356158","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356158"}},{"id":"356157","reference":"AQW 25134/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-03","answerBy":"2021-11-18","answered":"2021-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) on what date the Road Closures Order will be brought forward; and (ii) whether that Order will rectify the issues it caused for sports clubs and community events.","answerText":"I assume you are referring to the ongoing review of the operation of the Roads (Miscellaneous Provision) Act (Northern Ireland) 2010. The exercise to gather views and data relating to the operation of the Legislation, resulted in almost 800 responses to the Department’s online questionnaire, along with 14 pieces of correspondence. Detailed analysis of the information submitted is complete, and I am working with officials to finalise the review report and the Departmental response. As soon as I am in a position to be able to do so, I will make these reports publicly available.","answerHtml":"I assume you are referring to the ongoing review of the operation of the Roads (Miscellaneous Provision) Act (Northern Ireland) 2010. The exercise to gather views and data relating to the operation of the Legislation, resulted in almost 800 responses to the Department’s online questionnaire, along with 14 pieces of correspondence. Detailed analysis of the information submitted is complete, and I am working with officials to finalise the review report and the Departmental response. As soon as I am in a position to be able to do so, I will make these reports publicly available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025134%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356157","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356157"}},{"id":"356156","reference":"AQW 25133/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-03","answerBy":"2021-11-18","answered":"2021-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to confirm whether there is a small capital grants programme for schools to apply to for sports equipment for PE and afterschool activities.","answerText":"There are no specific small capital grants programmes for schools to apply for sports equipment for PE and afterschool activities.\n\nAll grant aided schools are funded under the Common Funding Scheme in accordance with the Local Management of Schools arrangements. One of the key principles of the Scheme is that the formula should support schools in delivering the curriculum including Physical Education. Schools are therefore responsible for meeting the cost of delivering the curriculum from within their delegated budgets.","answerHtml":"There are no specific small capital grants programmes for schools to apply for sports equipment for PE and afterschool activities.
All grant aided schools are funded under the Common Funding Scheme in accordance with the Local Management of Schools arrangements. One of the key principles of the Scheme is that the formula should support schools in delivering the curriculum including Physical Education. Schools are therefore responsible for meeting the cost of delivering the curriculum from within their delegated budgets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025133%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356156","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356156"}},{"id":"355927","reference":"AQW 25032/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-02","answerBy":"2021-11-17","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) why schools are not allowing their school halls in rural areas to be open for access to sports clubs and community organisations in the evenings; and (ii) when those halls will return to the full community use that they were developed to provide.","answerText":"The use of school premises may proceed on the same basis as the NI Executive’s guidance for non-domestic outdoor and indoor gatherings in other sectors. However, each individual school has responsibility for deciding whether external community groups can use their facilities. This is appropriate given the wide variety of environments and user groups that are involved.\n\nIt is the aim of the Department of Education to maximise the use of the schools estate for the benefit of local communities, encouraging and supporting schools to provide wider access to school facilities including school halls, where possible, primarily outside of normal school hours. However, the Department cannot require schools to open premises to third parties. Decisions relating to the use of school premises ultimately rest with an individual school’s Board of Governors.","answerHtml":"The use of school premises may proceed on the same basis as the NI Executive’s guidance for non-domestic outdoor and indoor gatherings in other sectors. However, each individual school has responsibility for deciding whether external community groups can use their facilities. This is appropriate given the wide variety of environments and user groups that are involved.
It is the aim of the Department of Education to maximise the use of the schools estate for the benefit of local communities, encouraging and supporting schools to provide wider access to school facilities including school halls, where possible, primarily outside of normal school hours. However, the Department cannot require schools to open premises to third parties. Decisions relating to the use of school premises ultimately rest with an individual school’s Board of Governors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025032%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355927","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355927"}},{"id":"355926","reference":"AQW 25031/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-02","answerBy":"2021-11-17","answered":"2021-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the funding available for primary schools to be able to bring in sports coaches to develop children’s physical activities through the range of sports played in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"All schools have freedom to utilise their delegated budgets to work with external organisations, including for the provision of sports coaching. Many sporting organisations also work in partnership with schools on a voluntary basis.\n\nIn addition, my Department’s Sports Programmes provides funding for coaches from both the GAA and IFA to work with teachers in primary schools to support and enhance the delivery of the PE curriculum. Funding of £500,000 has been provided in 2021/22.","answerHtml":"All schools have freedom to utilise their delegated budgets to work with external organisations, including for the provision of sports coaching. Many sporting organisations also work in partnership with schools on a voluntary basis.
In addition, my Department’s Sports Programmes provides funding for coaches from both the GAA and IFA to work with teachers in primary schools to support and enhance the delivery of the PE curriculum. Funding of £500,000 has been provided in 2021/22.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025031%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355926","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355926"}},{"id":"355925","reference":"AQW 25030/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-02","answerBy":"2021-11-17","answered":"2021-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what agreed partnership arrangements have been made with the Public Health Agency to ensure there is no duplication of workload with SportNI and that PHA take responsibility for their statutory remit to get people active.","answerText":"Responsibility for ensuring that the Public Health Agency fulfil their statutory remit to get people active is a matter for the Minister for Health in the first instance but there are clearly opportunities for publicly funded bodies such as Sport NI and the Public Health Agency to work collaboratively to ensure that people of all abilities can get active.\n\nWith regard to working collaboratively Sport NI and the Public Health Agency have a track record of working in partnership, including for example, on the development and implementation of the Wellbeing in Sport Action Plan 2019-25. That plan aims to ensure that there is a co-ordinated approach to improved mental health and wellbeing amongst people of all abilities who get involved in sport.\n\nThey have also worked on the development and delivery of the Active Living No Limits Action Plan which has delivered significant opportunities for disabled people to get active.\n\nIn addition, both organisations are statutory partners on the Community Planning Partnerships.\n\nMoving forward I can confirm that Sport NI is committed, in its draft annual business plan, to working in partnership with other public bodies to increase participation levels and to delivering the new Strategy for Sport and Physical Activity.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for ensuring that the Public Health Agency fulfil their statutory remit to get people active is a matter for the Minister for Health in the first instance but there are clearly opportunities for publicly funded bodies such as Sport NI and the Public Health Agency to work collaboratively to ensure that people of all abilities can get active.
With regard to working collaboratively Sport NI and the Public Health Agency have a track record of working in partnership, including for example, on the development and implementation of the Wellbeing in Sport Action Plan 2019-25. That plan aims to ensure that there is a co-ordinated approach to improved mental health and wellbeing amongst people of all abilities who get involved in sport.
They have also worked on the development and delivery of the Active Living No Limits Action Plan which has delivered significant opportunities for disabled people to get active.
In addition, both organisations are statutory partners on the Community Planning Partnerships.
Moving forward I can confirm that Sport NI is committed, in its draft annual business plan, to working in partnership with other public bodies to increase participation levels and to delivering the new Strategy for Sport and Physical Activity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025030%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355925","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355925"}},{"id":"355924","reference":"AQW 25029/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-02","answerBy":"2021-11-17","answered":"2021-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she has advised councils to open their leisure and sport facilities for use by indoor sports to ensure basketball, netball and squash can return to training and matches.","answerText":"The operation of Council owned leisure and sport facilities is a matter for the individual","answerHtml":"The operation of Council owned leisure and sport facilities is a matter for the individual
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025029%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355924","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355924"}},{"id":"355923","reference":"AQW 25028/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-02","answerBy":"2021-11-17","answered":"2021-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what communication she has had with councils to ensure all are taking an active role to enable her commitment for a return to sport.","answerText":"I can advise that my officials and members of SportNI have regular engagement with officers, including through the Chief Leisure Officers Association (CLOA) which represents all District Councils.\n\nMy officials have worked closely with council officers at various forums, including the Return to Sport Expert Group, the Safe Return of Spectators Working Group and the Cross Departmental COVID Working Group, to ensure a safe return of sport and physical activity.\n\nThis work has included the development of advice, guidance and return to sport protocols which ensured compliance with the public health regulations as they changed.\n\nOfficials will continue to engage with Councils to ensure that all sport and physical activity returns to full operating capacity when it is considered safe to do.","answerHtml":"I can advise that my officials and members of SportNI have regular engagement with officers, including through the Chief Leisure Officers Association (CLOA) which represents all District Councils.
My officials have worked closely with council officers at various forums, including the Return to Sport Expert Group, the Safe Return of Spectators Working Group and the Cross Departmental COVID Working Group, to ensure a safe return of sport and physical activity.
This work has included the development of advice, guidance and return to sport protocols which ensured compliance with the public health regulations as they changed.
Officials will continue to engage with Councils to ensure that all sport and physical activity returns to full operating capacity when it is considered safe to do.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025028%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355923","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355923"}},{"id":"355719","reference":"AQW 24920/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-01","answerBy":"2021-11-16","answered":"2021-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how long the online Housing Executive portal for tenants to report need of a repair has been offline; and when the online service will return.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has advised that its tenants could report a repair via an online form on the Housing Executive website until September 2021. At this time, the website suffered a temporary outage for a period of approximately 2 weeks.\n\nSince May 2020, the Housing Executive has had a separate Tenant Portal where customers can manage a range of tenancy matters online, including reporting a repair. During the period of the website outage, a temporary webpage advising customers of the continued availability of the Tenant Portal and the functionality it offered (in the absence of the website) was in place.\n\nFollowing a quick registration process, the Tenant Portal offers a number of benefits and services to customers, including the retention of personal and property information, the ability to report and track the progress of repairs and access to their rent account. Therefore, the Housing Executive has no plans to reinstate the online repairs form that was previously available. Messaging on the Housing Executive website is currently being updated to further highlight this change over to the Tenant Portal as the sole means of reporting repairs online.\n\nThe Tenant Portal continues to be available and anyone experiencing issues accessing this can visit the FAQs page on the Housing Executive website or call the helpline on 03448 920 910 and a member of staff will help them resolve their issue.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has advised that its tenants could report a repair via an online form on the Housing Executive website until September 2021. At this time, the website suffered a temporary outage for a period of approximately 2 weeks.
Since May 2020, the Housing Executive has had a separate Tenant Portal where customers can manage a range of tenancy matters online, including reporting a repair. During the period of the website outage, a temporary webpage advising customers of the continued availability of the Tenant Portal and the functionality it offered (in the absence of the website) was in place.
Following a quick registration process, the Tenant Portal offers a number of benefits and services to customers, including the retention of personal and property information, the ability to report and track the progress of repairs and access to their rent account. Therefore, the Housing Executive has no plans to reinstate the online repairs form that was previously available. Messaging on the Housing Executive website is currently being updated to further highlight this change over to the Tenant Portal as the sole means of reporting repairs online.
The Tenant Portal continues to be available and anyone experiencing issues accessing this can visit the FAQs page on the Housing Executive website or call the helpline on 03448 920 910 and a member of staff will help them resolve their issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024920%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355719","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355719"}},{"id":"355718","reference":"AQW 24919/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-01","answerBy":"2021-11-16","answered":"2021-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of Housing Executive homes that are more than 40 years old, broken down by Housing Executive district area.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has provided the table below detailing its properties which are over 40 years old.\n\nArea\tProperties 1981 and before\nCauseway\t5808\nLisburn and Castlereagh\t4433\nMid and East Antrim\t5128\nMid Ulster\t3357\nNorth Belfast\t3781\nNorth Down and Ards\t4908\nSouth and East Belfast\t6248\nSouth Antrim\t6071\nSouth\t6592\nSouth Down\t4391\nSouth West\t2825\nWest\t6734\nWest Belfast\t5984\nTotal\t66260","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has provided the table below detailing its properties which are over 40 years old.
| Area | Properties 1981 and before |
| Causeway | 5808 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | 4433 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 5128 |
| Mid Ulster | 3357 |
| North Belfast | 3781 |
| North Down and Ards | 4908 |
| South and East Belfast | 6248 |
| South Antrim | 6071 |
| South | 6592 |
| South Down | 4391 |
| South West | 2825 |
| West | 6734 |
| West Belfast | 5984 |
| Total | 66260 |
The primary standard applied by Libraries NI in ensuring the health and safety of its employees and members of the public using library facilities is compliance with the Health and Safety at Work (NI) Order 1978.
Libraries NI applies a risk assessment based approach to the management of health and safety across the public library estate with corporate and individual roles and responsibilities set out in the Libraries NI Health and Safety Policy.
The monitoring of property condition is a routine and regular activity undertaken at a local level across all 96 libraries throughout the year. Individual Branch Library Managers are responsible for the premises and activities under their control, including the routine inspection of facilities, reporting of property maintenance issues and the identification of potential health and safety risks. A central assets management team, within Libraries NI, engages with local Branch Library Managers in respect of matters raised and commissions works to be carried out as appropriate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024918%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355717","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355717"}},{"id":"355716","reference":"AQW 24917/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-01","answerBy":"2021-11-16","answered":"2021-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how the Strategy for Sport and Physical Activity Strategy is being included in all the social strategies being developed; and how she will ensure equality of access to sport and physical activity will be carried forward in her social strategies.","answerText":"work in relation to ensuring equality of access to and participation in sports and physical activity will be aligned to, and appropriately reflected within, the social inclusion strategies.\n\nThe co-design approach to the development of the new Sport and Physical Activity Strategy included engagement with over 200 stakeholders, including a broad range of representatives from Section75 Groups, and resulted in the development of key themes and goals which have direct synergies with the social strategies.\n\nThe themes focus on the need to increase participation in sport and physical activity by under-represented groups, it also highlights the importance of inclusion, partnership working and integration, as well as contributing to improved physical and mental health and well-being.","answerHtml":"work in relation to ensuring equality of access to and participation in sports and physical activity will be aligned to, and appropriately reflected within, the social inclusion strategies.
The co-design approach to the development of the new Sport and Physical Activity Strategy included engagement with over 200 stakeholders, including a broad range of representatives from Section75 Groups, and resulted in the development of key themes and goals which have direct synergies with the social strategies.
The themes focus on the need to increase participation in sport and physical activity by under-represented groups, it also highlights the importance of inclusion, partnership working and integration, as well as contributing to improved physical and mental health and well-being.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024917%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355716","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355716"}},{"id":"355715","reference":"AQW 24916/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-01","answerBy":"2021-11-16","answered":"2021-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how she will ensure Community Planning Partnerships work as key delivery partners for the Strategy for Sport and Physical Activity over the next budget period.","answerText":"In developing the new Strategy for Sport and Physical Activity a co-design approach led to engagement with over 200 different representatives and organisations including the Community Planning Partnerships. This extensive process has led to a thorough understanding of the needs of our communities, including those who are under-represented or not physically active.\n\nOperationalising the strategy will include ensuring that the strategic partners, including the Community Planning Partnerships, align their programmes and projects with the key themes and goals set out in the new Strategy. With regard to the Community Planning Partnerships SportNI, as a statutory partner in the Community Planning Partnerships and as an Arms-Length Body of the Department, will have a key role in ensuring that there is alignment with the Strategy.\n\nIn addition, the arrangements for overseeing delivery of the Strategy will include a number of forums which will have senior representatives from other Government Departments, local Councils and key stakeholder groups.","answerHtml":"In developing the new Strategy for Sport and Physical Activity a co-design approach led to engagement with over 200 different representatives and organisations including the Community Planning Partnerships. This extensive process has led to a thorough understanding of the needs of our communities, including those who are under-represented or not physically active.
Operationalising the strategy will include ensuring that the strategic partners, including the Community Planning Partnerships, align their programmes and projects with the key themes and goals set out in the new Strategy. With regard to the Community Planning Partnerships SportNI, as a statutory partner in the Community Planning Partnerships and as an Arms-Length Body of the Department, will have a key role in ensuring that there is alignment with the Strategy.
In addition, the arrangements for overseeing delivery of the Strategy will include a number of forums which will have senior representatives from other Government Departments, local Councils and key stakeholder groups.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024916%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355715","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355715"}},{"id":"354345","reference":"AQW 24436/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-18","answerBy":"2021-11-02","answered":"2021-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure why DFI Roads Southern Division's annual report to Ards and North Down Borough Council does not include any future, long term planning activities for the coastal roads around the Strangford constituency to take account of climate change and the impact from rising sea levels and erosion.","answerText":"My Department maintains existing coastal defences where there is the potential for erosion to threaten the integrity of the road network, which includes both planned and reactive works. Details of planned maintenance work at road coastal defences are listed in my Department’s 2021/22 Report to Ards and North Down Council, which has been recently published on my Department’s website.\n\nMy Department is also involved in work being taken forward through the Coastal Forum Working Group by a number of stakeholders including DAERA, seven Councils and the National Trust. DAERA is in the lead in this ongoing project which involves a survey, study and modelling of coastal erosion and development of appropriate mitigation strategies. It is this group which is focussed on long term planning activities for the coastal areas around the Strangford constituency, and the rest of Northern Ireland, taking account of climate change and the impact from rising sea levels and erosion.","answerHtml":"My Department maintains existing coastal defences where there is the potential for erosion to threaten the integrity of the road network, which includes both planned and reactive works. Details of planned maintenance work at road coastal defences are listed in my Department’s 2021/22 Report to Ards and North Down Council, which has been recently published on my Department’s website.
My Department is also involved in work being taken forward through the Coastal Forum Working Group by a number of stakeholders including DAERA, seven Councils and the National Trust. DAERA is in the lead in this ongoing project which involves a survey, study and modelling of coastal erosion and development of appropriate mitigation strategies. It is this group which is focussed on long term planning activities for the coastal areas around the Strangford constituency, and the rest of Northern Ireland, taking account of climate change and the impact from rising sea levels and erosion.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024436%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354345","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354345"}},{"id":"354344","reference":"AQW 24435/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-18","answerBy":"2021-11-02","answered":"2021-12-14","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 to outline (i) the use of the pre and post-programme monitoring and evaluation forms from the Centre Good Relations Fund; and (ii) what added value they provide to funded schemes.","answerText":"Since 2016 The Executive Office has provided circa £18 million funding to the Central Good Relations Fund (CGRF), a key programme contributing to delivery of the Together: Building A United Community Strategy. This has enabled around 600 good relations projects, reaching almost 200,000 participants, to be delivered.\n\nTo measure the impact of the CGRF on good relations outcomes participants are asked to complete a questionnaire prior to and following participation. This provides information on participant’s knowledge, attitude and behaviour towards people from a different religious or ethnic background and how this has changed following project participation.\n\nThis information is necessary to monitor whether and provide assurance that the CGRF is contributing to good relations outcomes. Information has been made or will be made available to organisations delivering projects to help in their assessment of what worked well, areas for improvement and allow good practice to be identified and shared.\n\nProgramme level information is published in the T:BUC Annual Report.","answerHtml":"Since 2016 The Executive Office has provided circa £18 million funding to the Central Good Relations Fund (CGRF), a key programme contributing to delivery of the Together: Building A United Community Strategy. This has enabled around 600 good relations projects, reaching almost 200,000 participants, to be delivered.
To measure the impact of the CGRF on good relations outcomes participants are asked to complete a questionnaire prior to and following participation. This provides information on participant’s knowledge, attitude and behaviour towards people from a different religious or ethnic background and how this has changed following project participation.
This information is necessary to monitor whether and provide assurance that the CGRF is contributing to good relations outcomes. Information has been made or will be made available to organisations delivering projects to help in their assessment of what worked well, areas for improvement and allow good practice to be identified and shared.
Programme level information is published in the T:BUC Annual Report.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024435%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354344","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354344"}},{"id":"354343","reference":"AQW 24434/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-18","answerBy":"2021-11-02","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will bid for the Barnett Consequentials as an outcome of the £22 million allocated to develop council tennis court facilities in GB for the same purpose in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My officials have been in contact with the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to find out more detail on how this funding will be allocated and the timescales involved. A response from DCMS is currently awaited but I can confirm that they do not expect any funding to be allocated in this financial year.\n\nIn the meantime, my officials have arranged to meet with Ulster Tennis to discuss the plans that the Governing Body has to develop infrastructure.","answerHtml":"My officials have been in contact with the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to find out more detail on how this funding will be allocated and the timescales involved. A response from DCMS is currently awaited but I can confirm that they do not expect any funding to be allocated in this financial year.
In the meantime, my officials have arranged to meet with Ulster Tennis to discuss the plans that the Governing Body has to develop infrastructure.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024434%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354343","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354343"}},{"id":"354342","reference":"AQW 24433/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-18","answerBy":"2021-11-02","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what strategic plans are in place to deal with the impact that climate change is having on historic buildings; and what long term plans there are to fund solutions to rising humidity in stately homes.","answerText":"I have recently published my Department’s Climate Change Action Plan for 2021-2022 which includes a number of commitments around understanding, mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change on heritage. A number of these actions are already completed or well advanced, including:\n\nAgreeing a Memorandum of Understanding on Climate Action and Cultural Heritage to support greater North-South co-operation in this area;\n\nWorking alongside sister heritage organisations to understand the climate change hazards that may affect heritage assets;\n\nParticipating in a Heritage Resilience Summit which will be taking place at COP 26;\n\nProgressing a climate change assessment tool for listed building owners;\n\nFunding a research project focussed on Mount Stewart which will guide and inform the stewards of heritage assets on how, when and whether to adapt their management and conservation planning for sites and assets in their care.\n\nThe review of the Historic Environment Fund that is currently underway includes consideration of how climate change can be embedded as a key consideration in my Department’s funding for heritage.","answerHtml":"I have recently published my Department’s Climate Change Action Plan for 2021-2022 which includes a number of commitments around understanding, mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change on heritage. A number of these actions are already completed or well advanced, including:
Agreeing a Memorandum of Understanding on Climate Action and Cultural Heritage to support greater North-South co-operation in this area;
Working alongside sister heritage organisations to understand the climate change hazards that may affect heritage assets;
Participating in a Heritage Resilience Summit which will be taking place at COP 26;
Progressing a climate change assessment tool for listed building owners;
Funding a research project focussed on Mount Stewart which will guide and inform the stewards of heritage assets on how, when and whether to adapt their management and conservation planning for sites and assets in their care.
The review of the Historic Environment Fund that is currently underway includes consideration of how climate change can be embedded as a key consideration in my Department’s funding for heritage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024433%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354342","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354342"}},{"id":"354341","reference":"AQW 24432/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-18","answerBy":"2021-11-02","answered":"2022-02-04","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 any financial support is available for Community Development Networks to support provision of GCSE maths and English courses.","answerText":"Community Development Networks are not within the remit of my Department.","answerHtml":"Community Development Networks are not within the remit of my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024432%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354341","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354341"}},{"id":"354187","reference":"AQW 24353/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-15","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when pre-pandemic access to job advice will be provided in Jobs and Benefits offices; and what review has been made into the effectiveness of job advice being provided in benefits offices.","answerText":"Despite the closure of Jobs & Benefits offices to the public, Work Coaches have continued to provide employment support and advice, tailored to the needs of individuals, through telephony and digital channels.\n\nAll Jobs & Benefits offices reopened for limited services in May this year. From that point there has been an incremental increase in face to face employment services for people who need this level of support. Offices will continue to assess the availability of face to face services in line with health and safety advice and guidance.\n\nService provision is monitored and reviewed continuously by local and senior management. This includes follow-up contact with individuals, employers and providers to assess their level of satisfaction with the local services provided.","answerHtml":"Despite the closure of Jobs & Benefits offices to the public, Work Coaches have continued to provide employment support and advice, tailored to the needs of individuals, through telephony and digital channels.
All Jobs & Benefits offices reopened for limited services in May this year. From that point there has been an incremental increase in face to face employment services for people who need this level of support. Offices will continue to assess the availability of face to face services in line with health and safety advice and guidance.
Service provision is monitored and reviewed continuously by local and senior management. This includes follow-up contact with individuals, employers and providers to assess their level of satisfaction with the local services provided.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024353%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354187","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354187"}},{"id":"354186","reference":"AQW 24352/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-15","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2021-11-10","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 progress being made by her Department on a Participatory Budgeting programme, aligned to Departmental policy and in keeping with commitments for structured civic engagement and the wider Community Wealth Building agenda to support stronger more empowered communities as we move forward from COVID-19.","answerText":"My Department has provided support for Participatory Budgeting projects and continues to look for ways to promote and develop participatory budgeting as a community engagement tool. I met representatives from PBWorks earlier this year to discuss how to utilise participatory budgeting as a method to empower citizens and build communities by allowing them to a have a direct say in budgeting and decision making through a rights based approach.\n\nWork has begun within my Department to start to build the strongest possible foundations to grow and scale community wealth building into our policymaking and investment plans. I have begun by investing in a programme of education and capacity building across the voluntary and community sector, as well as to officials within my Department and others.\n\nParticipatory budgeting and its practical role in delivering on community wealth building will form an important element of this programme of work.","answerHtml":"My Department has provided support for Participatory Budgeting projects and continues to look for ways to promote and develop participatory budgeting as a community engagement tool. I met representatives from PBWorks earlier this year to discuss how to utilise participatory budgeting as a method to empower citizens and build communities by allowing them to a have a direct say in budgeting and decision making through a rights based approach.
Work has begun within my Department to start to build the strongest possible foundations to grow and scale community wealth building into our policymaking and investment plans. I have begun by investing in a programme of education and capacity building across the voluntary and community sector, as well as to officials within my Department and others.
Participatory budgeting and its practical role in delivering on community wealth building will form an important element of this programme of work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024352%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354186","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354186"}},{"id":"354185","reference":"AQW 24351/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-15","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2022-01-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how Councils are taking forward their employability hub; (ii) when funding was released; and (iii) what programmes are being run.","answerText":"The Department is not currently funding any Council employability hubs.","answerHtml":"The Department is not currently funding any Council employability hubs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024351%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354185","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354185"}},{"id":"354184","reference":"AQW 24350/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-15","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2021-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether her Department is looking at the cost of adaptions for special educational need pupils' uniforms as part of the review of the school uniform grant.","answerText":"The school uniform grant provides a financial contribution towards the cost of school uniforms for low income families with children in primary, postprimary and special schools (not nursery). It is not designed to cover the cost of an entire uniform.\n\nWork has begun within the Department on a review of the free school meals (FSM) and uniform grant eligibility criteria. The review will, among other issues, identify and develop the options for eligibility for Uniform Grants and consider the current rate of Uniform Grant as a contribution to the actual cost of uniforms.\n\nAs part of this review, a wide range of stakeholders will be consulted and issues, such as the one you have described, will be considered.","answerHtml":"The school uniform grant provides a financial contribution towards the cost of school uniforms for low income families with children in primary, postprimary and special schools (not nursery). It is not designed to cover the cost of an entire uniform.
Work has begun within the Department on a review of the free school meals (FSM) and uniform grant eligibility criteria. The review will, among other issues, identify and develop the options for eligibility for Uniform Grants and consider the current rate of Uniform Grant as a contribution to the actual cost of uniforms.
As part of this review, a wide range of stakeholders will be consulted and issues, such as the one you have described, will be considered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024350%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354184","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354184"}},{"id":"354183","reference":"AQW 24349/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-15","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions she is taking to address the legacy of isolation, loneliness and related vulnerabilities amongst the elderly and shielding groups.","answerText":"My Department leads on the Executive’s Social Inclusion Strategies, including the existing Active Ageing Strategy and the development of the new Disability Strategy.\n\nThe Active Ageing Strategy promotes participation through many of the initiatives it contains. The current Active Ageing Strategy is being evaluated to inform the development of a successor strategy.\n\nMy Department is working proactively on a number of initiatives to make sure that all eligible pensioners can claim Pension Credit to which they are entitled. We continue to work collaboratively with Age NI and other trusted key stakeholders in the community to help us reach out to those pensioners who need support.\n\nThe Winter Fuel Payment provides pensioners with support for their energy bills and last year, 283,537 Winter Fuel payments were made at a total cost of £50.6m.\n\nI initiated the COVID19 Voluntary & Community Sector Emergencies Response Programme and my Department is working with partners, to lead on funding and logistics for a comprehensive package of support to enable the statutory and third sectors to work together to protect the most vulnerable.\n\nMany of the organisations benefiting from Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Funding deliver services to citizens who feel they are in the margins of society and helping them address issues associated with social isolation.","answerHtml":"My Department leads on the Executive’s Social Inclusion Strategies, including the existing Active Ageing Strategy and the development of the new Disability Strategy.
The Active Ageing Strategy promotes participation through many of the initiatives it contains. The current Active Ageing Strategy is being evaluated to inform the development of a successor strategy.
My Department is working proactively on a number of initiatives to make sure that all eligible pensioners can claim Pension Credit to which they are entitled. We continue to work collaboratively with Age NI and other trusted key stakeholders in the community to help us reach out to those pensioners who need support.
The Winter Fuel Payment provides pensioners with support for their energy bills and last year, 283,537 Winter Fuel payments were made at a total cost of £50.6m.
I initiated the COVID19 Voluntary & Community Sector Emergencies Response Programme and my Department is working with partners, to lead on funding and logistics for a comprehensive package of support to enable the statutory and third sectors to work together to protect the most vulnerable.
Many of the organisations benefiting from Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Funding deliver services to citizens who feel they are in the margins of society and helping them address issues associated with social isolation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024349%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354183","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354183"}},{"id":"353971","reference":"AQW 24275/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-14","answerBy":"2021-10-29","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how much money has been spent on debt and money management options delivered by or funded by her Department, broken down by provider in each year since April 2017.","answerText":"My Department has had policy and commissioning responsibility for the provision of debt advice services from 2019. It was previously the remit of The Money Advice Service.\n\nMy Department provides annual funding in the region of £6.6m for the delivery of independent, community based advice services, which includes appeals, help with problem debt and money management.\n\nFunding provided from 2019 is detailed in the table below:\n\nFunding Year\t\tAnnual\tDelivery\n2019/2020\tDebt Advice services\t£1.2m\tDelivery of a free, impartial and confidential debt advice services managed by Advice NI as lead provider in partnership with community based advice organisations and NIACRO.\n2020/2021\tDebt Advice services\t£1.9m (including additional funding received in response to Covid-19 pandemic)\tDelivery of free, impartial and confidential debt advice services managed by Advice NI as lead provider in partnership with community based advice organisations and NIACRO.\n2020/2021\tFinancial Inclusion Fund\t£700k\tFunding allocated to all eleven Councils to allow community sector organisations to work with people who need help to build financial resilience through access to money management advice and support, low cost/affordable credit, promoting savings.\n2021/2022\tDebt Advice services\t£1.6m\tA multi-channel debt advice service managed by Advice NI as lead provider in partnership with community based advice organisations and NIACRO.","answerHtml":"My Department has had policy and commissioning responsibility for the provision of debt advice services from 2019. It was previously the remit of The Money Advice Service.
My Department provides annual funding in the region of £6.6m for the delivery of independent, community based advice services, which includes appeals, help with problem debt and money management.
Funding provided from 2019 is detailed in the table below:
| Funding Year | Annual | Delivery | |
| 2019/2020 | Debt Advice services | £1.2m | Delivery of a free, impartial and confidential debt advice services managed by Advice NI as lead provider in partnership with community based advice organisations and NIACRO. |
| 2020/2021 | Debt Advice services | £1.9m (including additional funding received in response to Covid-19 pandemic) | Delivery of free, impartial and confidential debt advice services managed by Advice NI as lead provider in partnership with community based advice organisations and NIACRO. |
| 2020/2021 | Financial Inclusion Fund | £700k | Funding allocated to all eleven Councils to allow community sector organisations to work with people who need help to build financial resilience through access to money management advice and support, low cost/affordable credit, promoting savings. |
| 2021/2022 | Debt Advice services | £1.6m | A multi-channel debt advice service managed by Advice NI as lead provider in partnership with community based advice organisations and NIACRO. |
Through its Neighbourhood Renewal programme, which operates in the 36 most deprived urban areas, my Department supports a range of programmes that seek to improve educational attainment and enhance life opportunities for children and young people in a number of these areas. This includes investment in projects in some such areas that provide services to address health and wellbeing including promotion of good mental health and suicide/self-harm awareness.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024274%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353970","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353970"}},{"id":"353969","reference":"AQW 24273/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-14","answerBy":"2021-10-29","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether her Department and all organisations contracted or funded by her Department are paying staff the living wage; and (ii) will she be ensuring any organisation delivering services will meet living wage standards in 2022/23.","answerText":"New Decade New Approach included a commitment for the Executive to become a Living Wage Employer and the Department of Finance has put the necessary arrangements in place for this.\n\nThese include a pay award for the Civil Service that ensures the payment of the Living Wage and a new procurement policy that will see the Living Wage also being included as a condition of contract for all tenders from June 2022.\n\nOn this basis, the Department of Finance has been engaging with the Living Wage Foundation to secure formal accreditation, and the Finance Minister hopes to be in a position to make an announcement soon in that regard.","answerHtml":"New Decade New Approach included a commitment for the Executive to become a Living Wage Employer and the Department of Finance has put the necessary arrangements in place for this.
These include a pay award for the Civil Service that ensures the payment of the Living Wage and a new procurement policy that will see the Living Wage also being included as a condition of contract for all tenders from June 2022.
On this basis, the Department of Finance has been engaging with the Living Wage Foundation to secure formal accreditation, and the Finance Minister hopes to be in a position to make an announcement soon in that regard.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024273%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353969","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353969"}},{"id":"353968","reference":"AQW 24272/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-14","answerBy":"2021-10-29","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the employment and skills programmes being delivered through the local inclusive labour market partnerships.","answerText":"My Department has been working through co-design processes with a range of key stakeholders, including local councils and the Department for the Economy, to develop and implement local Labour Market Partnerships (LMPs).\n\nEach Local LMP is currently producing an annual Action Plan detailing delivery in their area, following a strategic assessment to identify and evidence local need.\n\nTherefore, it is not possible to detail the planned employment and skills programmes at this stage. However, the action plans are expected to include initiatives addressing issues such as long term unemployed, economic inactivity and impacts of Covid-19.","answerHtml":"My Department has been working through co-design processes with a range of key stakeholders, including local councils and the Department for the Economy, to develop and implement local Labour Market Partnerships (LMPs).
Each Local LMP is currently producing an annual Action Plan detailing delivery in their area, following a strategic assessment to identify and evidence local need.
Therefore, it is not possible to detail the planned employment and skills programmes at this stage. However, the action plans are expected to include initiatives addressing issues such as long term unemployed, economic inactivity and impacts of Covid-19.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024272%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353968","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353968"}},{"id":"353967","reference":"AQW 24271/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-14","answerBy":"2021-10-29","answered":"2021-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) how many learner drivers are registered with the Driver and Vehicle Agency; and (ii) how will she ensure those learners have access to a driving test within two years of receiving their learner licence.","answerText":"I can confirm that as of 22 September 2021, Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) management information indicates that approximately 27,000 people held a valid theory test pass certificate and of this number, 12,600 had booked a driving test. A significant number of the remaining learners will have only recently passed the theory test and therefore would not yet be ready for test. In addition, as would normally be the case, not all learners who complete the theory test will apply to take a practical driving test.\n\nThe DVA continues to work hard to increase its capacity to help meet the high demand for driving tests for all customers, including those who are required to take a further driving test. In the first five full months since driving tests resumed on 23 April, the DVA has conducted 29,687 driving tests, which is 45% higher than the five-year average for that period.\n\nIn addition to the recruitment of additional examiners, the DVA has taken a range of measures to maximise the availability of driving test slots, including the provision of new temporary test centres, if needed in the local area and there is sufficient driving examiner capacity. The new temporary test centres at Cookstown and Omagh have now opened for appointments.\n\nThe DVA will continue to offer driving tests on a Saturday and at certain centres on Sundays where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. Overtime will also be used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity. The DVA is now releasing Category B (private car) driving test appointments five months in advance with all test centres set to release driving test appointments on the first working day of each month. Additional test slots will also be released as resources continue to become available.\n\nTo help mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving tests, as a result of Covid restrictions, I brought forward legislation to extend the validity period of theory test pass certificates. Theory test certificates that were due to expire between 1 March 2020 and 31 October 2020 were extended by 12 months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which were due to expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which had not already benefited from an extension, were extended by 8 months.\n\nRather than apply further extensions, I agreed that the DVA would operate a prioritised booking system for customers that focused on those that have been waiting longest. Phase 1 customers, whose theory test pass certificates will expire by 31 October 2021, opened on 26 April 2021. The booking system for Phase 2 customers, whose theory test pass certificates will expire between 1 November 2021 and 31 March 2022, opened on 4 May 2021. The DVA contacted Phase 1 and Phase 2 customers directly before the booking system reopened to advise them of their priority access.\n\nThe booking service opened for all customers on 10 May 2021, providing everyone with a valid theory test pass certificate with equal opportunity to book a driving test, regardless of their past test history or priorities.\n\nYou will appreciate it is important to ensure that new drivers have current relevant road safety knowledge and hazard perception skills at the critical point they drive unsupervised for the first time. Hazard perception skills, a key factor in road safety, is a vital part of the preparation of new drivers, who are disproportionately represented in casualty statistics. For these reasons I have no plans to extend further the validity period of theory test pass certificates.\n\nDue to the constantly changing position, the advice to customers is to keep checking the booking system for availability as additional appointment slots are added when resources become available. If slots are not initially available at a customer’s preferred test centre, they may wish to consider booking a test at another centre.\n\nI remain committed to minimising disruption and ensuring our plans for the restoration of services is in hand. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times and I would ask customers for their continued patience.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that as of 22 September 2021, Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) management information indicates that approximately 27,000 people held a valid theory test pass certificate and of this number, 12,600 had booked a driving test. A significant number of the remaining learners will have only recently passed the theory test and therefore would not yet be ready for test. In addition, as would normally be the case, not all learners who complete the theory test will apply to take a practical driving test.
The DVA continues to work hard to increase its capacity to help meet the high demand for driving tests for all customers, including those who are required to take a further driving test. In the first five full months since driving tests resumed on 23 April, the DVA has conducted 29,687 driving tests, which is 45% higher than the five-year average for that period.
In addition to the recruitment of additional examiners, the DVA has taken a range of measures to maximise the availability of driving test slots, including the provision of new temporary test centres, if needed in the local area and there is sufficient driving examiner capacity. The new temporary test centres at Cookstown and Omagh have now opened for appointments.
The DVA will continue to offer driving tests on a Saturday and at certain centres on Sundays where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. Overtime will also be used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity. The DVA is now releasing Category B (private car) driving test appointments five months in advance with all test centres set to release driving test appointments on the first working day of each month. Additional test slots will also be released as resources continue to become available.
To help mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving tests, as a result of Covid restrictions, I brought forward legislation to extend the validity period of theory test pass certificates. Theory test certificates that were due to expire between 1 March 2020 and 31 October 2020 were extended by 12 months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which were due to expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which had not already benefited from an extension, were extended by 8 months.
Rather than apply further extensions, I agreed that the DVA would operate a prioritised booking system for customers that focused on those that have been waiting longest. Phase 1 customers, whose theory test pass certificates will expire by 31 October 2021, opened on 26 April 2021. The booking system for Phase 2 customers, whose theory test pass certificates will expire between 1 November 2021 and 31 March 2022, opened on 4 May 2021. The DVA contacted Phase 1 and Phase 2 customers directly before the booking system reopened to advise them of their priority access.
The booking service opened for all customers on 10 May 2021, providing everyone with a valid theory test pass certificate with equal opportunity to book a driving test, regardless of their past test history or priorities.
You will appreciate it is important to ensure that new drivers have current relevant road safety knowledge and hazard perception skills at the critical point they drive unsupervised for the first time. Hazard perception skills, a key factor in road safety, is a vital part of the preparation of new drivers, who are disproportionately represented in casualty statistics. For these reasons I have no plans to extend further the validity period of theory test pass certificates.
Due to the constantly changing position, the advice to customers is to keep checking the booking system for availability as additional appointment slots are added when resources become available. If slots are not initially available at a customer’s preferred test centre, they may wish to consider booking a test at another centre.
I remain committed to minimising disruption and ensuring our plans for the restoration of services is in hand. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times and I would ask customers for their continued patience.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024271%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353967","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353967"}},{"id":"356069","reference":"AQO 2633/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-14","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2021-11-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, further to the announcement in April 2021 of £162 million available for social housing, for a breakdown of how this money will be spent.","answerText":"Funding for the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) has been set at £162.5 million for 2021/22. The budget will be used to build social homes that are scheduled in the approved SHDP and also funds those schemes already under construction, that have been carried over from previous years. It also includes other financial commitments such as Disability Adaptation Grants.\n\n£145.6 million will be used for the main SHDP with a further £16.9 million in Housing for All incentives.\n\nIt is anticipated that this budget will deliver 1,900 social housing starts and 1,400 completions. In general, programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons, such as relating to delays in acquiring sites or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through the acquisition of Existing Satisfactory Purchases, properties for Rehabilitation, or ‘Off-the-Shelf’ properties.","answerHtml":"Funding for the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) has been set at £162.5 million for 2021/22. The budget will be used to build social homes that are scheduled in the approved SHDP and also funds those schemes already under construction, that have been carried over from previous years. It also includes other financial commitments such as Disability Adaptation Grants.
£145.6 million will be used for the main SHDP with a further £16.9 million in Housing for All incentives.
It is anticipated that this budget will deliver 1,900 social housing starts and 1,400 completions. In general, programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons, such as relating to delays in acquiring sites or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through the acquisition of Existing Satisfactory Purchases, properties for Rehabilitation, or ‘Off-the-Shelf’ properties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202633%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356069","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356069"}},{"id":"353793","reference":"AQW 24185/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-13","answerBy":"2021-10-28","answered":"2021-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) whether her DfI Road Service officers will review the way Openreach and other utility providers have left the A20 along the full stretch of Portaferry, Rowreagh and Deerpark Roads from Newtownards to Portaferry; and (ii) whether the patchwork of holes will be repaired to the same state as they were when recently resurfaced by her Department.","answerText":"My Department is aware of the utility works which have recently taken place on the A20. Under Streetworks legislation, utility companies have a legal right to place and maintain their services in the footway and carriageway and are required to adhere to certain standards.\n\nMy officials inspected the works and the utility was notified that the reinstatements did not meet the standards required. I am advised that further remedial works have now been undertaken and I have asked my officials to carry out a further inspection to ensure that all reinstatement work has been completed to the required standard.","answerHtml":"My Department is aware of the utility works which have recently taken place on the A20. Under Streetworks legislation, utility companies have a legal right to place and maintain their services in the footway and carriageway and are required to adhere to certain standards.
My officials inspected the works and the utility was notified that the reinstatements did not meet the standards required. I am advised that further remedial works have now been undertaken and I have asked my officials to carry out a further inspection to ensure that all reinstatement work has been completed to the required standard.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024185%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353793","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353793"}},{"id":"353792","reference":"AQW 24184/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-13","answerBy":"2021-10-28","answered":"2021-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) when the sea wall defences in Kircubbin, opposite Blackhall Street, will be repaired; and (ii) whether the wall will be repaired in advance of expected winter storms to reduce damage to road users and local homes.","answerText":"I am advised that the sea wall defences in Kircubbin, opposite Blackhall Street forms part of the entrance to the car park which is owned by Ards and North Down Borough Council. Officials have referred this issue to the Council for their attention.","answerHtml":"I am advised that the sea wall defences in Kircubbin, opposite Blackhall Street forms part of the entrance to the car park which is owned by Ards and North Down Borough Council. Officials have referred this issue to the Council for their attention.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024184%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353792","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353792"}},{"id":"353791","reference":"AQW 24183/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-13","answerBy":"2021-10-28","answered":"2021-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether social distancing measures for passengers on the Strangford Ferry will be reviewed to reflect the current Executive decisions.","answerText":"I can confirm that social distancing measures on the Strangford Ferry Service have been reviewed following each change to the Covid-19 regulations and guidance. In response to the most recent update passengers are being directed to keep at least one metre social distance, where possible.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that social distancing measures on the Strangford Ferry Service have been reviewed following each change to the Covid-19 regulations and guidance. In response to the most recent update passengers are being directed to keep at least one metre social distance, where possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024183%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353791","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353791"}},{"id":"353790","reference":"AQW 24182/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-13","answerBy":"2021-10-28","answered":"2021-11-10","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 each social housing provider in receipt of funding for social homes in the Strangford Constituency; and how many homes each provider intends to build in the area.","answerText":"In the table below I have provided details of the 9 Registered Housing Associations who have recently completed social housing projects, are currently on-site and who have planned social housing developments within the Strangford constituency.\n\nSocial housing in Strangford by Housing Association\n\nHousing association\tUnits completed to-date in 2021/22\tUnits under construction\tUnits programmed to start\nArbour Housing*\t0\t4\t0\nArk Housing\t0\t41\t35\nChoice Housing\t7\t0\t0\nClanmil Housing\t0\t6\t0\nConnswater Homes\t0\t9\t0\nHabinteg Housing\t0\t0\t6\nNorth Belfast Housing\t5\t2\t3\nRadius Housing\t0\t0\t3\nRural Housing\t0\t2\t1\nTotals\t12\t64\t48\n\n* formerly South Ulster Housing","answerHtml":"In the table below I have provided details of the 9 Registered Housing Associations who have recently completed social housing projects, are currently on-site and who have planned social housing developments within the Strangford constituency.
Social housing in Strangford by Housing Association
| Housing association | Units completed to-date in 2021/22 | Units under construction | Units programmed to start |
| Arbour Housing* | 0 | 4 | 0 |
| Ark Housing | 0 | 41 | 35 |
| Choice Housing | 7 | 0 | 0 |
| Clanmil Housing | 0 | 6 | 0 |
| Connswater Homes | 0 | 9 | 0 |
| Habinteg Housing | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| North Belfast Housing | 5 | 2 | 3 |
| Radius Housing | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Rural Housing | 0 | 2 | 1 |
| Totals | 12 | 64 | 48 |
* formerly South Ulster Housing
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024182%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353790","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353790"}},{"id":"353789","reference":"AQW 24181/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-13","answerBy":"2021-10-28","answered":"2021-10-25","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 whether he will be applying for funding for the seal sanctuary in Exploris, Portaferry in the upcoming multi-year budget.","answerText":"Grant funding to support operation of the Seal Sanctuary at Exploris is financed from income generated through the carrier bag levy. The current grant runs to 31 March 2022 and the scheduled review of this grant is underway. A decision on future funding will be made following the review.","answerHtml":"Grant funding to support operation of the Seal Sanctuary at Exploris is financed from income generated through the carrier bag levy. The current grant runs to 31 March 2022 and the scheduled review of this grant is underway. A decision on future funding will be made following the review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024181%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353789","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353789"}},{"id":"353567","reference":"AQW 24099/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-12","answerBy":"2021-10-27","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many women, presenting at Emergency Departments or hospital Emergency Obstetric Units, with suspected miscarriages were told that they did not require medical intervention and to return home, in each year since 2017.","answerText":"It is not currently possible for HSC Trusts to provide the information on the reason for attendance at emergency departments including emergency obstetric units, in a standardised format, as the administrative systems in use do not hold diagnostic information. It is also only possible to determine miscarriage related attendances when the attendance has resulted in an admission where miscarriage has been clinically diagnosed.","answerHtml":"It is not currently possible for HSC Trusts to provide the information on the reason for attendance at emergency departments including emergency obstetric units, in a standardised format, as the administrative systems in use do not hold diagnostic information. It is also only possible to determine miscarriage related attendances when the attendance has resulted in an admission where miscarriage has been clinically diagnosed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024099%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353567","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353567"}},{"id":"353566","reference":"AQW 24098/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-12","answerBy":"2021-10-27","answered":"2021-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when AQW 22022/17-22 will be answered; and when the public will be informed that IVF services have resumed to pre-pandemic levels.","answerText":"AQW 22022/17-22 was answered on 15 November 21.\n\nI announced on 1 November that the Regional Fertility Centre has implemented a waiting list initiative for IVF services which will bring IVF waiting lists back to pre-pandemic levels by March 2022. The press release can be found in full at:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-praises-commitment-staff-regional-fertility-centre","answerHtml":"AQW 22022/17-22 was answered on 15 November 21.
I announced on 1 November that the Regional Fertility Centre has implemented a waiting list initiative for IVF services which will bring IVF waiting lists back to pre-pandemic levels by March 2022. The press release can be found in full at:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-praises-commitment-staff-regional-fertility-centre
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024098%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353566","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353566"}},{"id":"353564","reference":"AQW 24096/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-12","answerBy":"2021-10-27","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the time limit for frozen eggs, sperm and embryos has been extended to allow potential parents the opportunity to progress treatment after the delays forced by the pandemic.","answerText":"Fertility is a reserved matter. However, I can advise that the Westminster government introduced legislation as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in the closure to fertility clinics and ongoing delays to fertility treatments. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology (Statutory Storage Period for Embryos and Gametes) (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020 allows an additional two-year storage on top of the maximum base limit of ten years in place at the time for those with material in storage on 1 July 2020.","answerHtml":"Fertility is a reserved matter. However, I can advise that the Westminster government introduced legislation as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in the closure to fertility clinics and ongoing delays to fertility treatments. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology (Statutory Storage Period for Embryos and Gametes) (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020 allows an additional two-year storage on top of the maximum base limit of ten years in place at the time for those with material in storage on 1 July 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024096%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353564","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353564"}},{"id":"353563","reference":"AQW 24095/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-12","answerBy":"2021-10-27","answered":"2021-12-02","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 work of the Arts and Creative Industry Taskforce; and what progress has been made for a long term strategy for the sector.","answerText":"The report of the Culture, Arts and Heritage Recovery Taskforce and my response to it was published on 23rd November 2021 and can be viewed online at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/art-recovery-survive-stabilise-strengthen.","answerHtml":"The report of the Culture, Arts and Heritage Recovery Taskforce and my response to it was published on 23rd November 2021 and can be viewed online at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/art-recovery-survive-stabilise-strengthen.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024095%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353563","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353563"}},{"id":"353219","reference":"AQW 23943/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-08","answerBy":"2021-10-25","answered":"2021-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission how many documents have been translated from (i) English to Ulster Scots; and (ii) English to Irish, in the last three years.","answerText":"In response to your question:\n\nThe Assembly Commission has translated no documents from English to Ulster Scots in the last three years; and\n\nThe Assembly Commission has translated seven documents from English to Irish in the last three years.","answerHtml":"In response to your question:
The Assembly Commission has translated no documents from English to Ulster Scots in the last three years; and
The Assembly Commission has translated seven documents from English to Irish in the last three years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023943%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353219","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353219"}},{"id":"353218","reference":"AQW 23942/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-08","answerBy":"2021-10-25","answered":"2021-11-04","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 COVID-19 special recognition payments for care assistants.","answerText":"As I am sure you are aware special recognition payments to HSC statutory sector employees were paid in July. Delivering this to those employed in the independent care sector has proven to be more complex and challenging.\n\nI can confirm that progress is being made in relation to making the payments to those who work in the Independent Sector. On the 29 October 2021 a letter was issued to all Independent Sector care home and domiciliary care providers registered with the RQIA inviting them to identify their qualifying employees. The letter provided details of eligibility criteria and how the employer should claim on behalf of their staff.\n\nOnce a claim has been verified by the Business Services Organisation (BSO), payments will be made to each provider in advance of them making payment to their staff.\n\nWhere staff worked for an independent care provider during the qualifying period, whether for the full qualifying period or in part, it is that provider’s responsibility to ensure a claim is submitted and they make subsequent arrangements to pass this payment on to the relevant individual.\n\nIn recognition of the administrative process involved in identifying and providing staff details, a fee of £12.60 per individual is available to each provider.\n\nEmployers are required to complete and submit claims and relevant documentation, no later than 30 November 2021. It is expected that payments will be made by Business Services Organisation (BSO) within a maximum of 4 weeks of receipt of a verified claim, accompanied by the correct background documentation to support the payment process. Likewise it is expected that independent care providers will make arrangements to pay staff as soon as possible after the payment is received.\n\nDue to the transient nature of staff employed in the independent sector, some people may have moved to another employer. The letter issued on the 29th October, also references future arrangements for those in this position. At this stage my officials are asking providers to submit a claim for eligible staff who are still currently employed by them.\n\nA revised FAQ on the special recognition payment has been published on the Department’s website and is available via the following link;\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs","answerHtml":"As I am sure you are aware special recognition payments to HSC statutory sector employees were paid in July. Delivering this to those employed in the independent care sector has proven to be more complex and challenging.
I can confirm that progress is being made in relation to making the payments to those who work in the Independent Sector. On the 29 October 2021 a letter was issued to all Independent Sector care home and domiciliary care providers registered with the RQIA inviting them to identify their qualifying employees. The letter provided details of eligibility criteria and how the employer should claim on behalf of their staff.
Once a claim has been verified by the Business Services Organisation (BSO), payments will be made to each provider in advance of them making payment to their staff.
Where staff worked for an independent care provider during the qualifying period, whether for the full qualifying period or in part, it is that provider’s responsibility to ensure a claim is submitted and they make subsequent arrangements to pass this payment on to the relevant individual.
In recognition of the administrative process involved in identifying and providing staff details, a fee of £12.60 per individual is available to each provider.
Employers are required to complete and submit claims and relevant documentation, no later than 30 November 2021. It is expected that payments will be made by Business Services Organisation (BSO) within a maximum of 4 weeks of receipt of a verified claim, accompanied by the correct background documentation to support the payment process. Likewise it is expected that independent care providers will make arrangements to pay staff as soon as possible after the payment is received.
Due to the transient nature of staff employed in the independent sector, some people may have moved to another employer. The letter issued on the 29th October, also references future arrangements for those in this position. At this stage my officials are asking providers to submit a claim for eligible staff who are still currently employed by them.
A revised FAQ on the special recognition payment has been published on the Department’s website and is available via the following link;
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023942%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353218","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353218"}},{"id":"353217","reference":"AQW 23941/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-08","answerBy":"2021-10-25","answered":"2021-10-15","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 progress of the Ballynahinch bypass.","answerText":"On 19 April 2021, I announced my intention to make a ‘Direction Order’ for the Ballynahinch Bypass. The Direction Order for the scheme has been made which completes the statutory processes for the scheme. In line with my commitment to deliver the scheme as part of my plan to aid economic recovery, community transformation and address regional imbalance, officials continue to work to progress this scheme. Progression to procurement and construction will be dependent upon the level of funding made available to my Department in Spending Review 2021.","answerHtml":"On 19 April 2021, I announced my intention to make a ‘Direction Order’ for the Ballynahinch Bypass. The Direction Order for the scheme has been made which completes the statutory processes for the scheme. In line with my commitment to deliver the scheme as part of my plan to aid economic recovery, community transformation and address regional imbalance, officials continue to work to progress this scheme. Progression to procurement and construction will be dependent upon the level of funding made available to my Department in Spending Review 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023941%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353217","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353217"}},{"id":"353014","reference":"AQW 23846/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-07","answerBy":"2021-10-22","answered":"2021-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many unfilled vacancies there currently are in her Department.","answerText":"At week ending 8th October 2021, there were circa 1,058 vacancies within the Department for Communities.\n\nThe Department continues to work in partnership with Civil Service HR to secure supply of resources to fill vacancies.","answerHtml":"At week ending 8th October 2021, there were circa 1,058 vacancies within the Department for Communities.
The Department continues to work in partnership with Civil Service HR to secure supply of resources to fill vacancies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023846%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353014","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353014"}},{"id":"353013","reference":"AQW 23845/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-07","answerBy":"2021-10-22","answered":"2021-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when the next group of people who will be able to receive the COVID-19 booster jab will be announced; and whether that group will include people with asthma.","answerText":"The various Health and Social Care Trusts began booster vaccinations in care homes in week commencing 20th September and Trusts will shortly begin booster vaccination of frontline health and social care staff, in line with JCVI guidance.\n\nThe JCVI advice states that a COVID-19 booster vaccine dose should be offered no earlier than six months after completion of the primary vaccine course (two doses). The 6 month interval between completing the primary course and booster dose will drive the timeline for eligibility and delivery.\n\nJCVI have recommended all those who fell within groups 1-9 in the primary dosing programme should be offered booster dose. This advice includes all those aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19 infection.\n\nClinical risk groups include persons with a severe lung condition, including those with poorly controlled asthma which requires continuous or repeated use of systemic steroids or with previous exacerbations requiring hospital admission. GPs will be familiar with those individuals on their patient lists who fall within this group and will call them forward for booster vaccination when at least six months have passed since their second dose in the primary dosing programme.","answerHtml":"The various Health and Social Care Trusts began booster vaccinations in care homes in week commencing 20th September and Trusts will shortly begin booster vaccination of frontline health and social care staff, in line with JCVI guidance.
The JCVI advice states that a COVID-19 booster vaccine dose should be offered no earlier than six months after completion of the primary vaccine course (two doses). The 6 month interval between completing the primary course and booster dose will drive the timeline for eligibility and delivery.
JCVI have recommended all those who fell within groups 1-9 in the primary dosing programme should be offered booster dose. This advice includes all those aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19 infection.
Clinical risk groups include persons with a severe lung condition, including those with poorly controlled asthma which requires continuous or repeated use of systemic steroids or with previous exacerbations requiring hospital admission. GPs will be familiar with those individuals on their patient lists who fall within this group and will call them forward for booster vaccination when at least six months have passed since their second dose in the primary dosing programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023845%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353013","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353013"}},{"id":"353012","reference":"AQW 23844/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-07","answerBy":"2021-10-22","answered":"2021-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the evidence behind the decision not to use the free flu jab list to decide who receives a COVID-19 booster jab.","answerText":"From the outset of the vaccination programme in Northern Ireland, we have been guided by advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.\n\nThe Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) have considered the options for and timing of a booster programme to revaccinate adults in order to reduce mortality, morbidity and hospitalisations from COVID- 19 over the 2021/22 winter period and through 2022, as well as to minimise the COVID-19 case infection rate and the chance of new variants emerging.\n\nThis advice was based on evidence from a number of sources, including UK data on the duration of vaccine-induced protection against severe COVID-19.","answerHtml":"From the outset of the vaccination programme in Northern Ireland, we have been guided by advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) have considered the options for and timing of a booster programme to revaccinate adults in order to reduce mortality, morbidity and hospitalisations from COVID- 19 over the 2021/22 winter period and through 2022, as well as to minimise the COVID-19 case infection rate and the chance of new variants emerging.
This advice was based on evidence from a number of sources, including UK data on the duration of vaccine-induced protection against severe COVID-19.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023844%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353012","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353012"}},{"id":"353011","reference":"AQW 23843/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-07","answerBy":"2021-10-22","answered":"2021-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether all people diagnosed with asthma will receive a COVID-19 booster vaccine when their immunity wanes.","answerText":"I would refer the Member to my reply to AQW 22924/17-22","answerHtml":"I would refer the Member to my reply to AQW 22924/17-22
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023843%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353011","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353011"}},{"id":"354922","reference":"AQO 2616/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-07","answerBy":"2021-10-19","answered":"2021-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health given the significant impact on pregnant women and their partners, to outline whether access to the medical management of miscarriage, including scans and surgical support, has been restored to pre-pandemic levels.","answerText":"Within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, access to pregnancy scans and the medical and surgical management of miscarriage at the Early Pregnancy Clinic has never been stood down, even throughout the pandemic. Futhermore, the full range of bereavement support has been offered to women who have suffered a miscarriage during the pandemic, including referral to the Bereavement midwife and signposting to support services.\n\nIn the South Eastern and Western Trusts, partners are facilitated to attend all pregnancy scans and can stay with their partner throughout the medical management of miscarriage at Early Pregnancy Clinics, while adhering to social distancing and wearing of masks while in hospital, which may include remaining in a different waiting area until the woman is ready for her scan. All women and their partners are provided with information on support services available following miscarriage and access to a bereavement midwife.\n\nIn the Belfast Trust, COVID-19 has caused serious staffing challenges across the service and the Early Pregnancy Service is not yet able to function at full capacity. However, the Trust aims to restore this aspect of service to pre-pandemic levels once the service has a full complement of staff. Nevertheless, all women attending the service have received the care they required throughout the pandemic. Surgical management has now been restored as an option for all women. Women for whom there are clinical concerns are reviewed, but Belfast Trust cannot always offer reassurance scans or review those women who have probably already miscarried. Currently all women attending can bring a partner to the Early Pregnancy Clinic and this was also facilitated during the pandemic, where possible.\n\nWomen who have had a miscarriage are given advice and literature on miscarriage and bereavement, including contact details for the Trust’s Bereavement and Loss Midwife and the Royal Maternity Hospital’s Helpline Number.\n\nThe Southern Trust has put measures in place to facilitate the same number of appointments per day, but in different locations. Support is available via the bereavement team and women are signposted to the Miscarriage Association and Ectopic Trust as appropriate for virtual support. Currently, partners are allowed to attend scans. The Trust’s policy on this has varied throughout the pandemic.","answerHtml":"Within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, access to pregnancy scans and the medical and surgical management of miscarriage at the Early Pregnancy Clinic has never been stood down, even throughout the pandemic. Futhermore, the full range of bereavement support has been offered to women who have suffered a miscarriage during the pandemic, including referral to the Bereavement midwife and signposting to support services.
In the South Eastern and Western Trusts, partners are facilitated to attend all pregnancy scans and can stay with their partner throughout the medical management of miscarriage at Early Pregnancy Clinics, while adhering to social distancing and wearing of masks while in hospital, which may include remaining in a different waiting area until the woman is ready for her scan. All women and their partners are provided with information on support services available following miscarriage and access to a bereavement midwife.
In the Belfast Trust, COVID-19 has caused serious staffing challenges across the service and the Early Pregnancy Service is not yet able to function at full capacity. However, the Trust aims to restore this aspect of service to pre-pandemic levels once the service has a full complement of staff. Nevertheless, all women attending the service have received the care they required throughout the pandemic. Surgical management has now been restored as an option for all women. Women for whom there are clinical concerns are reviewed, but Belfast Trust cannot always offer reassurance scans or review those women who have probably already miscarried. Currently all women attending can bring a partner to the Early Pregnancy Clinic and this was also facilitated during the pandemic, where possible.
Women who have had a miscarriage are given advice and literature on miscarriage and bereavement, including contact details for the Trust’s Bereavement and Loss Midwife and the Royal Maternity Hospital’s Helpline Number.
The Southern Trust has put measures in place to facilitate the same number of appointments per day, but in different locations. Support is available via the bereavement team and women are signposted to the Miscarriage Association and Ectopic Trust as appropriate for virtual support. Currently, partners are allowed to attend scans. The Trust’s policy on this has varied throughout the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202616%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354922","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354922"}},{"id":"352697","reference":"AQW 23672/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-05","answerBy":"2021-10-20","answered":"2021-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions her Department is taking to address the number of homeless children; and whether the Housing Executive homelessness strategy due to end in 2022 is currently being reviewed and a new plan developed.","answerText":"The Housing Executive’s approach to assisting those families, including children, who are homeless or threatened with homeless is outlined in the Homelessness Strategy 2017-22: https://www.nihe.gov.uk/Documents/Homelessness/homelessness-strategy-northern-ireland-2017-2022.aspx?ext=\n\nThe Strategy outlines how, in order to prevent homelessness, Housing Executive staff will provide person centred services which are tailored to meet the needs of individual families, including any children, and support them to achieve sustainable housing solutions.\n\nThe Housing Executive will publish a new Homelessness Strategy by April 2022. Subject to Housing Executive Board approval, a public consultation on the draft Homelessness Strategy 2022-27 will commence by November 2021.\n\nIt should be noted that in cases where individuals are under 18 and present as homeless, the primary responsibility remains with the local Heath Trust under the Children (NI) Order 1995.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive’s approach to assisting those families, including children, who are homeless or threatened with homeless is outlined in the Homelessness Strategy 2017-22: https://www.nihe.gov.uk/Documents/Homelessness/homelessness-strategy-northern-ireland-2017-2022.aspx?ext=
The Strategy outlines how, in order to prevent homelessness, Housing Executive staff will provide person centred services which are tailored to meet the needs of individual families, including any children, and support them to achieve sustainable housing solutions.
The Housing Executive will publish a new Homelessness Strategy by April 2022. Subject to Housing Executive Board approval, a public consultation on the draft Homelessness Strategy 2022-27 will commence by November 2021.
It should be noted that in cases where individuals are under 18 and present as homeless, the primary responsibility remains with the local Heath Trust under the Children (NI) Order 1995.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023672%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352697","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352697"}},{"id":"352696","reference":"AQW 23671/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-05","answerBy":"2021-10-20","answered":"2021-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of people deemed homeless in each housing district, broken down by age and gender.","answerText":"The Housing Executive’s approach to assisting those families, including children, who are homeless or threatened with homeless is outlined in the Homelessness Strategy 2017-22: https://www.nihe.gov.uk/Documents/Homelessness/homelessness-strategy-northern-ireland-2017-2022.aspx?ext=\n\nThe Strategy outlines how, in order to prevent homelessness, Housing Executive staff will provide person centred services which are tailored to meet the needs of individual families, including any children, and support them to achieve sustainable housing solutions.\n\nThe Housing Executive will publish a new Homelessness Strategy by April 2022. Subject to Housing Executive Board approval, a public consultation on the draft Homelessness Strategy 2022-27 will commence by November 2021.\n\nIt should be noted that in cases where individuals are under 18 and present as homeless, the primary responsibility remains with the local Heath Trust under the Children (NI) Order 1995.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive’s approach to assisting those families, including children, who are homeless or threatened with homeless is outlined in the Homelessness Strategy 2017-22: https://www.nihe.gov.uk/Documents/Homelessness/homelessness-strategy-northern-ireland-2017-2022.aspx?ext=
The Strategy outlines how, in order to prevent homelessness, Housing Executive staff will provide person centred services which are tailored to meet the needs of individual families, including any children, and support them to achieve sustainable housing solutions.
The Housing Executive will publish a new Homelessness Strategy by April 2022. Subject to Housing Executive Board approval, a public consultation on the draft Homelessness Strategy 2022-27 will commence by November 2021.
It should be noted that in cases where individuals are under 18 and present as homeless, the primary responsibility remains with the local Heath Trust under the Children (NI) Order 1995.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023671%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352696","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352696"}},{"id":"352695","reference":"AQW 23670/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-05","answerBy":"2021-10-20","answered":"2021-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure when will the rules regarding dropped kerbs be reviewed to allow residents to be able to park off-road to charge their electric vehicle, particularly those vehicles used by people with limited mobility.","answerText":"A ‘permitted means of access to a road’ including dropped kerbs, can either be constructed under a Planning Approval, or by consent from my Department under Article 80 of the Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993.\n\nConsent under Article 80 applies to unclassified roads such as residential streets and rural roads with low traffic volumes, and enables the alteration of a footway or verge, including the lowering of kerbs, to facilitate the construction of a new access, or alteration of an existing access, where the access complies with ‘permitted development’ conditions onto a road, and where planning permission is not required. Details of the consent process can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/publications/application-consent-construct-or-alter-vehicular-access\n\nThe current approach can be used to make changes to the road network which will enable off-street parking and charging of electric vehicles, including those used by people with limited mobility, and does not need reviewed or amended.","answerHtml":"A ‘permitted means of access to a road’ including dropped kerbs, can either be constructed under a Planning Approval, or by consent from my Department under Article 80 of the Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993.
Consent under Article 80 applies to unclassified roads such as residential streets and rural roads with low traffic volumes, and enables the alteration of a footway or verge, including the lowering of kerbs, to facilitate the construction of a new access, or alteration of an existing access, where the access complies with ‘permitted development’ conditions onto a road, and where planning permission is not required. Details of the consent process can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/publications/application-consent-construct-or-alter-vehicular-access
The current approach can be used to make changes to the road network which will enable off-street parking and charging of electric vehicles, including those used by people with limited mobility, and does not need reviewed or amended.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023670%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352695","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352695"}},{"id":"352694","reference":"AQW 23669/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-05","answerBy":"2021-10-20","answered":"2021-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure which local councils have applied for funding to support and improve local EV charging network from the fund she outlined in the Assembly on 4 October 2021.","answerText":"The British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/councils in GB-NI during 2021-22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. I have recently written to councils advising them that I have made available match-funding of circa £350k, subject to public expenditure processes, from within my Department’s Blue Green Fund to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). Accessing the funding, from the Blue Green Fund is dependent on our councils submitting a successful ORCS application and I am disappointed that to date none of our councils have done so.\n\nI would again encourage councils to avail of the ORCS funding which provides a grant for 75% of the capital costs of procuring and installing charge points and associated dedicated parking bays. This funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. Therefore, should a council make a successful application to ORCS for 75% funding, the 25% match from my Green Blue Fund will mean that the capital costs are fully covered. My Department is also represented, in an advisory capacity, on an ORCS council consortium set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My officials continue to make themselves available to provide assistance, advice and guidance.\n\nI remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"The British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/councils in GB-NI during 2021-22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. I have recently written to councils advising them that I have made available match-funding of circa £350k, subject to public expenditure processes, from within my Department’s Blue Green Fund to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). Accessing the funding, from the Blue Green Fund is dependent on our councils submitting a successful ORCS application and I am disappointed that to date none of our councils have done so.
I would again encourage councils to avail of the ORCS funding which provides a grant for 75% of the capital costs of procuring and installing charge points and associated dedicated parking bays. This funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. Therefore, should a council make a successful application to ORCS for 75% funding, the 25% match from my Green Blue Fund will mean that the capital costs are fully covered. My Department is also represented, in an advisory capacity, on an ORCS council consortium set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My officials continue to make themselves available to provide assistance, advice and guidance.
I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023669%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352694","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352694"}},{"id":"352693","reference":"AQW 23668/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-05","answerBy":"2021-10-20","answered":"2021-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether Members can ask the Cross Government Planning Forum to investigate planning applications delayed by lack of response by statutory consultees.","answerText":"The purpose of the Planning Forum is to work closely with statutory consultees to implement recommendations from a report into the role of statutory consultees in the planning process. It is intended that this work will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning process, particularly with regard to major and economically sensitive planning applications.\n\nIt would not be appropriate for the Planning Forum to investigate individual planning applications, which are a matter for the relevant planning authority.","answerHtml":"The purpose of the Planning Forum is to work closely with statutory consultees to implement recommendations from a report into the role of statutory consultees in the planning process. It is intended that this work will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning process, particularly with regard to major and economically sensitive planning applications.
It would not be appropriate for the Planning Forum to investigate individual planning applications, which are a matter for the relevant planning authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023668%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352693","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352693"}},{"id":"351307","reference":"AQW 23102/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-24","answerBy":"2021-09-29","answered":"2021-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when the Joint Committe on Vaccination and Immunisation confirmed that a third dose for those severely immunosuppressed will be available in Northern Ireland; and where this third dose will be provided.","answerText":"JCVI issue advice on 1st September 2021 that those persons aged 12 years and over who are severely immunosuppressed should be offered a third dose of vaccine.\n\nThe vaccination of those eligible individuals will require co-ordination between primary and secondary care. The vast majority of individuals are likely to be identified by their secondary care clinician but some individuals may only be known to their GP.\n\nTrusts have now begun the process of identifying those eligible individuals, contacting them and making arrangements for them to receive their third dose from the Trust.\n\nFor those known only to their GPs, the latter have begun identifying those eligible individuals on their patient lists. If these individuals are not also receiving care via secondary care, GPs will issue a letter recommending they receive a third primary dose via a community pharmacy using the Moderna vaccine. Individuals aged 12-17 known only to their GP will be referred to their local Trust for vaccination.\n\nThis vaccination is separate from any Booster vaccination these individuals would receive.","answerHtml":"JCVI issue advice on 1st September 2021 that those persons aged 12 years and over who are severely immunosuppressed should be offered a third dose of vaccine.
The vaccination of those eligible individuals will require co-ordination between primary and secondary care. The vast majority of individuals are likely to be identified by their secondary care clinician but some individuals may only be known to their GP.
Trusts have now begun the process of identifying those eligible individuals, contacting them and making arrangements for them to receive their third dose from the Trust.
For those known only to their GPs, the latter have begun identifying those eligible individuals on their patient lists. If these individuals are not also receiving care via secondary care, GPs will issue a letter recommending they receive a third primary dose via a community pharmacy using the Moderna vaccine. Individuals aged 12-17 known only to their GP will be referred to their local Trust for vaccination.
This vaccination is separate from any Booster vaccination these individuals would receive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023102%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351307","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351307"}},{"id":"351306","reference":"AQW 23101/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-24","answerBy":"2021-10-11","answered":"2021-09-28","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 he is doing to support higher education students that were accepted by Queen's University for halls of residence accomodation, and then subsequently told that Queen's was unable to provide accommodation, resulting in those students facing up to 20% increase in accommodation costs through private providers.","answerText":"While my Department is responsible for higher education policy in relation to teaching and research in Northern Ireland, student accommodation, whether it is university halls of residence or private rental housing, is a matter between the individual student and their landlord.\n\nUniversity-managed student accommodation is a commercial activity for universities, and it is up to them to assess and meet demand.\n\nI understand that Queen’s University has been trying to source alternative accommodation options to meet the additional demand for this academic year, and that they have been trying to encourage students to avail of accommodation options, other than university-managed halls of residence.","answerHtml":"While my Department is responsible for higher education policy in relation to teaching and research in Northern Ireland, student accommodation, whether it is university halls of residence or private rental housing, is a matter between the individual student and their landlord.
University-managed student accommodation is a commercial activity for universities, and it is up to them to assess and meet demand.
I understand that Queen’s University has been trying to source alternative accommodation options to meet the additional demand for this academic year, and that they have been trying to encourage students to avail of accommodation options, other than university-managed halls of residence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023101%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351306","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351306"}},{"id":"351305","reference":"AQW 23100/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-24","answerBy":"2021-10-11","answered":"2022-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what support his Department is providing for businesses, such as theatres, unable to operate at a capacity that delivers sufficient income to cover business costs.","answerText":"Matters relating to businesses such as theatres are the responsibility of the Department for Communities.\n\nIn respect of other businesses operational capacity my department has no mandate from the Executive to take forward further schemes outside those already announced.","answerHtml":"Matters relating to businesses such as theatres are the responsibility of the Department for Communities.
In respect of other businesses operational capacity my department has no mandate from the Executive to take forward further schemes outside those already announced.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023100%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351305","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351305"}},{"id":"351304","reference":"AQW 23099/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-24","answerBy":"2021-10-11","answered":"2021-10-05","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 Ards Peninsula Coastal Road strategy, including (i) the actions have been completed; and (ii) the updated priority list.","answerText":"It is assumed that the strategy referred to in your question relates to the Ards Peninsula Sea Walls Condition and Repair Cost Report, dated March 2018. This work and report are separate from the work being led by DAERA and delivered through the Coastal Forum Working Group which involves a survey, study and model of coastal erosion with the intention being to develop appropriate mitigation strategies.\n\nThe 2021/22 coastal defence repair programme for the Ards and North Down Borough Council will be included in my Department’s 2021/22 Roads Annual Report which is due to be presented to Council on 12 October 2021 prior to its general release. A number of schemes in this programme have already been completed this financial year.","answerHtml":"It is assumed that the strategy referred to in your question relates to the Ards Peninsula Sea Walls Condition and Repair Cost Report, dated March 2018. This work and report are separate from the work being led by DAERA and delivered through the Coastal Forum Working Group which involves a survey, study and model of coastal erosion with the intention being to develop appropriate mitigation strategies.
The 2021/22 coastal defence repair programme for the Ards and North Down Borough Council will be included in my Department’s 2021/22 Roads Annual Report which is due to be presented to Council on 12 October 2021 prior to its general release. A number of schemes in this programme have already been completed this financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023099%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351304","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351304"}},{"id":"351303","reference":"AQW 23098/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-24","answerBy":"2021-10-11","answered":"2021-10-14","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 detail the number of people who will come off the furlough scheme at the end of Sept 2021, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The table below shows the latest available provisional furlough figures for 31 August 2021, the take up rate at 31 August 2021 and the estimated total number of unique jobs supported through the furlough scheme since its inception, broken down by Parliamentary Constituency.\n\nParliamentary Constituency\tNo. on Furlough\n31 August 2021\tTake Up Rate\n31 August 2021\tTotal number of unique jobs\nBelfast East\t1,700\t4%\t15,400\nBelfast North\t1,600\t4%\t16,600\nBelfast South\t1,800\t4%\t15,800\nBelfast West\t1,400\t4%\t14,200\nEast Antrim\t1,500\t4%\t13,800\nEast Londonderry\t1,500\t4%\t14,600\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t1,500\t4%\t15,500\nFoyle\t1,300\t3%\t13,600\nLagan Valley\t1,900\t4%\t17,800\nMid Ulster\t1,600\t4%\t18,600\nNewry & Armagh\t2,200\t5%\t17,700\nNorth Antrim\t1,700\t4%\t17,900\nNorth Down\t1,400\t4%\t12,600\nSouth Antrim\t1,700\t4%\t17,700\nSouth Down\t2,100\t5%\t18,100\nStrangford\t1,400\t4%\t13,400\nUpper Bann\t2,100\t4%\t20,100\nWest Tyrone\t1,500\t4%\t13,500\nNorthern Ireland\t29,700\t4%\t286,800\n\nFurlough figures for September are not currently available.","answerHtml":"The table below shows the latest available provisional furlough figures for 31 August 2021, the take up rate at 31 August 2021 and the estimated total number of unique jobs supported through the furlough scheme since its inception, broken down by Parliamentary Constituency.
| Parliamentary Constituency | No. on Furlough 31 August 2021 | Take Up Rate 31 August 2021 | Total number of unique jobs |
| Belfast East | 1,700 | 4% | 15,400 |
| Belfast North | 1,600 | 4% | 16,600 |
| Belfast South | 1,800 | 4% | 15,800 |
| Belfast West | 1,400 | 4% | 14,200 |
| East Antrim | 1,500 | 4% | 13,800 |
| East Londonderry | 1,500 | 4% | 14,600 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 1,500 | 4% | 15,500 |
| Foyle | 1,300 | 3% | 13,600 |
| Lagan Valley | 1,900 | 4% | 17,800 |
| Mid Ulster | 1,600 | 4% | 18,600 |
| Newry & Armagh | 2,200 | 5% | 17,700 |
| North Antrim | 1,700 | 4% | 17,900 |
| North Down | 1,400 | 4% | 12,600 |
| South Antrim | 1,700 | 4% | 17,700 |
| South Down | 2,100 | 5% | 18,100 |
| Strangford | 1,400 | 4% | 13,400 |
| Upper Bann | 2,100 | 4% | 20,100 |
| West Tyrone | 1,500 | 4% | 13,500 |
| Northern Ireland | 29,700 | 4% | 286,800 |
Furlough figures for September are not currently available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023098%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351303","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351303"}},{"id":"351084","reference":"AQW 23034/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-23","answerBy":"2021-10-08","answered":"2022-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether there is a strategy to employ dentists directly by the Health Service to ensure children can access services through the Health Service and not be forced to have to sign up to a private dental care package.","answerText":"At this current time, there are no plans to employ dentists in general dental practices directly by the Health Service.\n\nAll children are entitled to free dental care up to their 18th birthday, and those aged 18 and in full-time education. Due to the capacity issues caused by the pandemic, however, and to ensure that this limited capacity is targeted appropriately, the guidance issued to all dentists recommends that patients requiring emergency or urgent care are given the highest priority.","answerHtml":"At this current time, there are no plans to employ dentists in general dental practices directly by the Health Service.
All children are entitled to free dental care up to their 18th birthday, and those aged 18 and in full-time education. Due to the capacity issues caused by the pandemic, however, and to ensure that this limited capacity is targeted appropriately, the guidance issued to all dentists recommends that patients requiring emergency or urgent care are given the highest priority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023034%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351084","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351084"}},{"id":"351083","reference":"AQW 23033/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-23","answerBy":"2021-10-08","answered":"2021-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the progress of the Fresh Start support funding for Integrated Education for potential new buildings or refurbishments; (ii) to confirm the position in the process for each school accepted for a new build; and (ii) when each build is expected to break ground.","answerText":"The Fresh Start Agreement (FSA) set out a commitment by the UK Government (UKG) to release up to £500m of new capital funding over 10 years to support shared and integrated education and housing, subject to individual projects being agreed between the Executive and the UKG. The Fresh Start announcement in 2016 confirmed funding for 17 schemes to proceed to planning and approval for construction in 6 projects. In June 2018, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland announced approval to release FSA funding for the Strule SEC Programme. A further announcement in November 2018 confirmed funding for a further 5 integrated schemes to proceed in principle. A full list of projects is included in the table below, which indicates the current position and the anticipated start on site.\n\nThe total spend from the Fresh Start allocation to the end of the financial year 2020/21 is just under £37.3m. While this spend to date is low relative to the overall £500m total available, this is to be expected in a programme of this size where the early work on procuring design teams, identifying site options, preparing business cases, completing the design and procuring a contractor is very time-consuming but not capital intensive. The projected spend profile will ramp up significantly in coming years as projects move into the construction phase.\n\nThe following table indicates the current status and anticipated start date of the 28 projects (excluding Strule) announced to date. Capital Projects are complex by their very nature and a variety of factors can contribute to delays which cumulatively impact on delivery of a project. The programme will of course be subject to regular review, particularly in light of the ongoing Covid-19 situation.\n\nProjects Completed\tAnticipated on Site\nDrumlins Integrated Primary School\tCompleted September 2017\nBraidside Integrated Primary School\tCompleted July 2020\nContractor Appointed\nLimavady Shared Education Campus (Limavady High School & St Mary’s Limavady)\tStarted on site March 2021\nEnniskillen Integrated Primary School\tStarted on site June 2021\nRoe Valley Integrated Primary School\tAnticipated start date late 2021\nUlidia Integrated College\tAnticipated start date early 2022\nContractor expected to be appointed in the current Financial Year 2021-22\nStrangford Integrated College\tAnticipated start summer 2022\nRowandale Integrated Primary School\tAnticipated start summer 2022\nShimna Integrated College\tAnticipated start late spring 2022\nMillennium Integrated Primary School\tAnticipated start summer 2022\nPhoenix Integrated Primary School\tAnticipated start spring 2022\nBallycastle Shared Education Campus (Ballycastle High School & Cross and Passion College)\tAnticipated start summer 2022\nNew-Bridge Integrated College\tAnticipated start late spring 2022\nProjects in the later stages of design\nMill Strand Integrated Primary School\tAnticipated start winter 2022\nForge Integrated Primary School\tAnticipated start winter 2022\nPriory College\tAnticipated start spring 2023\nBangor Central Integrated Primary School\tAnticipated start spring 2023\nProjects in the early design stages\nMoy Shared Education Campus (Moy Regional PS & St John’s PS)\tAnticipated start winter 2023\nFort Hill College\tAnticipated start spring 2024\nFort Hill Integrated Primary School\tAnticipated start spring 2024\nHazelwood Integrated College\tAnticipated start spring 2024\nSlemish Integrated College\tAnticipated start winter 2023\nIntegrated College Dungannon\tAnticipated start winter 2023\nParkhall Integrated College\tAnticipated start winter 2022\nDrumragh Integrated College\tAnticipated start spring 2023\nBrookeborough Shared Education Campus (St Mary’s PS & Brookeborough PS)\tAnticipated start spring 2024\nProjects on hold or withdrawn.\nNorth Coast Integrated College\tN/A\nDuneane / Moneynick Shared Education Campus\tN/A","answerHtml":"The Fresh Start Agreement (FSA) set out a commitment by the UK Government (UKG) to release up to £500m of new capital funding over 10 years to support shared and integrated education and housing, subject to individual projects being agreed between the Executive and the UKG. The Fresh Start announcement in 2016 confirmed funding for 17 schemes to proceed to planning and approval for construction in 6 projects. In June 2018, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland announced approval to release FSA funding for the Strule SEC Programme. A further announcement in November 2018 confirmed funding for a further 5 integrated schemes to proceed in principle. A full list of projects is included in the table below, which indicates the current position and the anticipated start on site.
The total spend from the Fresh Start allocation to the end of the financial year 2020/21 is just under £37.3m. While this spend to date is low relative to the overall £500m total available, this is to be expected in a programme of this size where the early work on procuring design teams, identifying site options, preparing business cases, completing the design and procuring a contractor is very time-consuming but not capital intensive. The projected spend profile will ramp up significantly in coming years as projects move into the construction phase.
The following table indicates the current status and anticipated start date of the 28 projects (excluding Strule) announced to date. Capital Projects are complex by their very nature and a variety of factors can contribute to delays which cumulatively impact on delivery of a project. The programme will of course be subject to regular review, particularly in light of the ongoing Covid-19 situation.
| Projects Completed | Anticipated on Site |
| Drumlins Integrated Primary School | Completed September 2017 |
| Braidside Integrated Primary School | Completed July 2020 |
| Contractor Appointed | |
| Limavady Shared Education Campus (Limavady High School & St Mary’s Limavady) | Started on site March 2021 |
| Enniskillen Integrated Primary School | Started on site June 2021 |
| Roe Valley Integrated Primary School | Anticipated start date late 2021 |
| Ulidia Integrated College | Anticipated start date early 2022 |
| Contractor expected to be appointed in the current Financial Year 2021-22 | |
| Strangford Integrated College | Anticipated start summer 2022 |
| Rowandale Integrated Primary School | Anticipated start summer 2022 |
| Shimna Integrated College | Anticipated start late spring 2022 |
| Millennium Integrated Primary School | Anticipated start summer 2022 |
| Phoenix Integrated Primary School | Anticipated start spring 2022 |
| Ballycastle Shared Education Campus (Ballycastle High School & Cross and Passion College) | Anticipated start summer 2022 |
| New-Bridge Integrated College | Anticipated start late spring 2022 |
| Projects in the later stages of design | |
| Mill Strand Integrated Primary School | Anticipated start winter 2022 |
| Forge Integrated Primary School | Anticipated start winter 2022 |
| Priory College | Anticipated start spring 2023 |
| Bangor Central Integrated Primary School | Anticipated start spring 2023 |
| Projects in the early design stages | |
| Moy Shared Education Campus (Moy Regional PS & St John’s PS) | Anticipated start winter 2023 |
| Fort Hill College | Anticipated start spring 2024 |
| Fort Hill Integrated Primary School | Anticipated start spring 2024 |
| Hazelwood Integrated College | Anticipated start spring 2024 |
| Slemish Integrated College | Anticipated start winter 2023 |
| Integrated College Dungannon | Anticipated start winter 2023 |
| Parkhall Integrated College | Anticipated start winter 2022 |
| Drumragh Integrated College | Anticipated start spring 2023 |
| Brookeborough Shared Education Campus (St Mary’s PS & Brookeborough PS) | Anticipated start spring 2024 |
| Projects on hold or withdrawn. | |
| North Coast Integrated College | N/A |
| Duneane / Moneynick Shared Education Campus | N/A |
The Education Authority (EA) does not currently hold information at individual constituency level relating to the number of children waiting for an educational psychology assessment at Stage 3 of the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice.
The Strangford area falls within the remit of the EA’s Dundonald area office, and the total number of children awaiting assessment in this area office is as follows:
| Weeks Open | Educational Psychology Assessment at Stage 3 of the Code of Practice | Educational Psychology Review Assessment at Stage 3 of the Code of Practice | Educational Psychology Advice for a Statutory Assessment at Stage 4 of the Code of Practice |
| 0-32 | 59 | 17 | 70 |
| 33-36 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 37-39 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 40+ | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 60 | 17 | 70 |
As of 19 September 2021, the EA was conducting 2,029 statutory assessments. Of these assessments, 504 are open cases in the Dundonald office area, with 40 of these cases open more than 26 weeks, excluding statutory exceptions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023032%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351082","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351082"}},{"id":"351081","reference":"AQW 23031/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-23","answerBy":"2021-10-08","answered":"2021-10-21","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 ensure Health and Social Care Trusts proactively reach out to identify all unpaid carers.","answerText":"Earlier this year my Department issued a leaflet to every household in Northern Ireland in an effort to encourage those in a caring role to identify themselves as carers and to contact their local Trust’s Carer Coordinator for support and to join their local Carer’s Register. Many previously unidentified carers have also come forward through the Covid vaccination programme and this contingent have since been signposted to other supports.\n\nTrusts proactively reach out to identify informal, unpaid carers to ensure they have the support they require in their caring role, and are able to access appropriate advice and support. This is done by working closely with GPs, pharmacists, and the community and voluntary sector, especially condition specific agencies and other public agencies such as Councils and Colleges of Further Education. A range of information and communication methods are used to encourage people to come forward and identify themselves as carers and also to inform them of services available.\n\nTrusts ensure services actively seek to identify carers, including young carers. This includes ensuring hospital teams understand what carers need in order to provide them with information and support. This is supported by an ongoing programme of staff training to raise awareness of carers and create capacity with staff to identify and support carers. As standard practice, when staff identify carers, they are offered carer assessments or reassessments and if accepted, arrangements are made for the assessments to be carried out. This is also supported by a programme of carer assessment training for staff.","answerHtml":"Earlier this year my Department issued a leaflet to every household in Northern Ireland in an effort to encourage those in a caring role to identify themselves as carers and to contact their local Trust’s Carer Coordinator for support and to join their local Carer’s Register. Many previously unidentified carers have also come forward through the Covid vaccination programme and this contingent have since been signposted to other supports.
Trusts proactively reach out to identify informal, unpaid carers to ensure they have the support they require in their caring role, and are able to access appropriate advice and support. This is done by working closely with GPs, pharmacists, and the community and voluntary sector, especially condition specific agencies and other public agencies such as Councils and Colleges of Further Education. A range of information and communication methods are used to encourage people to come forward and identify themselves as carers and also to inform them of services available.
Trusts ensure services actively seek to identify carers, including young carers. This includes ensuring hospital teams understand what carers need in order to provide them with information and support. This is supported by an ongoing programme of staff training to raise awareness of carers and create capacity with staff to identify and support carers. As standard practice, when staff identify carers, they are offered carer assessments or reassessments and if accepted, arrangements are made for the assessments to be carried out. This is also supported by a programme of carer assessment training for staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023031%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351081","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351081"}},{"id":"351080","reference":"AQW 23030/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-23","answerBy":"2021-10-08","answered":"2021-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what actions he is taking to support carers; and (ii) whether he has instructed Health and Social Care Trusts to reach out to unpaid and unregistered carers to ensure their mental health is being supported while day centre and respite care is still not widely available.","answerText":"My Department responded to the pandemic situation by introducing a number of initiatives to support carers. We facilitated the development of a carers ID card to assist carers when shopping or exercising during the lockdown periods; we provided additional resources to Carers NI so their advice line could operate extended hours; and we ensured every home in Northern Ireland received a leaflet setting out how to access the support that is available for carers.\n\nI was pleased earlier this year to be able to establish a new £4.4 million scheme to support unpaid carers. There has never before been funding of this scale available to support carers in Northern Ireland. I am pleased that significant funding has already been awarded to projects under the Fund which will support real improvements in the lives and experiences of individual carers.\n\nMy Department has also ensured that carers are provided with relevant and accurate information, through the publication of specific guidance for unpaid/informal carers on 10 April 2020 which was last updated on 9 July 2021. This is available at:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/advice-informal-unpaid-carers-and-young-carers-during-covid-19-pandemic\n\nThis guidance includes a comprehensive list of services and links to assist people with their emotional health and wellbeing.\n\nThroughout the pandemic each Trust has continued to grow and adapt its services to provide further support for carers through the use of online activities, increasing information available, and the provision of one off sessions. These programmes of support and activities assist and encourage carers to maintain their health and wellbeing. These sessions are regularly offered and have included online sessions and face to face events where they can be safely discharged alongside current COVID-19 regulations. Sessions have been offered on stress and anxiety management, relaxation techniques, pilates, yoga, Look Feel Good workshops, and specific caring for the carer courses.\n\nTrusts have continued to adjust and develop their services offered to support carers further. For example Belfast Health & Social Care Trust established Listening Ear services through which carers have been provided with reassurance, and practical and emotional support. Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, South Eastern Health and Social Trust and Lifeline have also partnered on a pilot to offer additional specialist support in relation to their mental health. This has enabled the provision of one to one counselling sessions for carers which has proven to be a valuable and beneficial resource.\n\nCarers have been pro-actively contacted by key workers to ensure they have the support they require in their caring role and, where necessary, additional support and/or advice. Trusts also disseminate regular information to keep unpaid carers informed of support and services. For example the Northern Trust Carer hub, which acts as a central point of contact for carers and staff, had over 23,000 contacts with carers and staff by telephone or email in 2020/21. Many previously unidentified carers have also come forward through the Covid vaccination programme and this contingent have since been signposted to other supports.\n\nThroughout the period Carer's assessments and reassessments have continued to be offered, and these include a consideration of mental wellbeing.\n\nOngoing practical support has been provided more generally such as assisting with shopping, offering a sitting service and meeting people for ongoing mental health support. In instances where daycare and/or short breaks were not available, additional supports were put in place, for example via existing or new Direct Payments, with additional flexibility for service users and resource allocation agreed on a case-by-case basis.","answerHtml":"My Department responded to the pandemic situation by introducing a number of initiatives to support carers. We facilitated the development of a carers ID card to assist carers when shopping or exercising during the lockdown periods; we provided additional resources to Carers NI so their advice line could operate extended hours; and we ensured every home in Northern Ireland received a leaflet setting out how to access the support that is available for carers.
I was pleased earlier this year to be able to establish a new £4.4 million scheme to support unpaid carers. There has never before been funding of this scale available to support carers in Northern Ireland. I am pleased that significant funding has already been awarded to projects under the Fund which will support real improvements in the lives and experiences of individual carers.
My Department has also ensured that carers are provided with relevant and accurate information, through the publication of specific guidance for unpaid/informal carers on 10 April 2020 which was last updated on 9 July 2021. This is available at:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/advice-informal-unpaid-carers-and-young-carers-during-covid-19-pandemic
This guidance includes a comprehensive list of services and links to assist people with their emotional health and wellbeing.
Throughout the pandemic each Trust has continued to grow and adapt its services to provide further support for carers through the use of online activities, increasing information available, and the provision of one off sessions. These programmes of support and activities assist and encourage carers to maintain their health and wellbeing. These sessions are regularly offered and have included online sessions and face to face events where they can be safely discharged alongside current COVID-19 regulations. Sessions have been offered on stress and anxiety management, relaxation techniques, pilates, yoga, Look Feel Good workshops, and specific caring for the carer courses.
Trusts have continued to adjust and develop their services offered to support carers further. For example Belfast Health & Social Care Trust established Listening Ear services through which carers have been provided with reassurance, and practical and emotional support. Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, South Eastern Health and Social Trust and Lifeline have also partnered on a pilot to offer additional specialist support in relation to their mental health. This has enabled the provision of one to one counselling sessions for carers which has proven to be a valuable and beneficial resource.
Carers have been pro-actively contacted by key workers to ensure they have the support they require in their caring role and, where necessary, additional support and/or advice. Trusts also disseminate regular information to keep unpaid carers informed of support and services. For example the Northern Trust Carer hub, which acts as a central point of contact for carers and staff, had over 23,000 contacts with carers and staff by telephone or email in 2020/21. Many previously unidentified carers have also come forward through the Covid vaccination programme and this contingent have since been signposted to other supports.
Throughout the period Carer's assessments and reassessments have continued to be offered, and these include a consideration of mental wellbeing.
Ongoing practical support has been provided more generally such as assisting with shopping, offering a sitting service and meeting people for ongoing mental health support. In instances where daycare and/or short breaks were not available, additional supports were put in place, for example via existing or new Direct Payments, with additional flexibility for service users and resource allocation agreed 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%2023030%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351080","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351080"}},{"id":"351175","reference":"AQO 2529/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-23","answerBy":"2021-10-05","answered":"2021-10-05","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, given the role vets play in the movement of goods and border checks, to provide an update on the actions he is taking to address the current shortage of vets.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Poots","text":"There is currently a shortage of vets in my Department and, more widely, in the private and public sectors across the United Kingdom. There is also an increasing acceptance that Northern Ireland requires a more assured long-term supply of veterinarians than is available from historical sources. There are a number of options for achieving that, which merit further exploration. I have, therefore, commissioned a formal assessment of the need for vets in Northern Ireland and an independent analysis of the various options for meeting that need. In the case of my Department’s veterinary requirements, my officials are exploring all available avenues, including taking on more permanent veterinary staff, through Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) recruitment, and temporary vets, through the NICS agency framework. Officials are also investigating contracting the supply of vets with providers of veterinary services, with the assistance of the Department of Finance’s construction and procurement division. In the meantime, my priority is to ensure that we have sufficient vets to carry out the vital work in our meat processing plants, in field offices delivering TB eradication, to support the agri-food industry and to assure the welfare of animals. The use of scarce veterinary resources to oversee intra-UK trade at Northern Ireland points of entry is unacceptable and unnecessary, just as the Northern Ireland protocol, in its current form, is unacceptable, given the absence of material risk to the European Union's single market as, in so many respects, the standards in the UK's single market equal, if not exceed, those in many parts of the European Union. The protocol is already unworkable and is becoming unsuitable as the number of checks rise to a possible 25,000 per week under its full and rigorous implementation."},{"speaker":"","text":"Rather than spending scarce resources on checking goods that will, in all probability, never come near the EU single market and with no material risk if they should, it would be preferable that our vets focus on the real priorities facing the Northern Ireland agri-food industry, on animal welfare and on matters of concern to the population."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"Members, that ends the period for listed questions. We now move to 15 minutes of topical questions. Questions 1, 3, 4 and 8 have been withdrawn."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202529%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351175","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-10-05&docID=351845#AQO%202529/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351175"}},{"id":"351142","reference":"AQO 2496/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-23","answerBy":"2021-10-04","answered":"2021-10-04","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline her plans to reduce the timeframe for determining planning applications for houses.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Mallon (The Minister for Infrastructure)","text":"The Member will be aware of my commitment to housing here in Northern Ireland, particularly social and affordable housing, given the crisis facing our communities. The planning system here provides a statutory target of 15 weeks for determining local planning applications and 30 weeks for determining major planning applications. In 2020-21, over 8,700 residential planning applications were received. In the same period, over 7,000 residential applications were decided. Ninety-six per cent of those were approved. You will be aware that, since the transfer of planning functions in 2015, the majority of planning applications are processed by councils, and it is the responsibility of each local planning authority to ensure that they are processed in a timely manner. My Department monitors the performance of councils through a number of mechanisms, including the statutory planning indicators. It also monitors and reports on a number of non-statutory planning indicators, which are in the planning monitoring framework. Recent performance has clearly been impacted on by the restrictions put in place due to the coronavirus pandemic, but I expect that to improve as we emerge from the pandemic, and my Department is working with all stakeholders to drive forward improvement. Measures that we have taken include the establishment of a cross-government planning forum, the focus of which is on improving performance in the planning statutory consultation process and, ultimately, the time frames for processing major and economically significant applications. I share Members' frustrations, and I provide assurances that I am focused on moving things forward. I am undertaking a review of the implementation of the Planning Act 2011, which will consider how we can further improve the system for all stakeholders. My Department has invested, along with 10 local councils, in the replacement of the current planning portal system in order to provide a more modern planning service. That is expected to be operational in 2022. I also believe that effective and inclusive community engagement is an important part of a fit-for-purpose planning system, and that is why I have also established a planning engagement partnership to look at how we can enhance the quality and depth of community engagement in the planning process at regional and local planning levels."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Thank you very much, Minister. I was glad to hear you talk about statutory consultees coming together, but a few of the key culprits in causing delays in determining planning applications rest in your Department, namely DFI Rivers and Roads, which, as statutory consultees, can be a bit slow. What actions will you take to ensure that they start meeting their targets for a response?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I thank the Member for her question. As I outlined in the original response, one area that we are focused on as a Department is improving the performance of statutory consultees in the planning system. As you are no doubt aware, many factors impact on the overall performance of the planning system. Statutory consultee response times, even in my Department, is a reason for delay. To address that, the Department has established a cross-government planning forum. The forum is a group of senior leaders in my Department and from the statutory consultee bodies, as well as representatives from local government, working together. Its key focus is to oversee the implementation of recommendations that were made in an independent report on the role of statutory consultees in the planning process. This work has a particular focus on improving processes and time frames for determining major and economically significant planning applications. The latest statutory performance figures show that consultees have responded to 76% of all statutory planning consultations within 21 days. Despite the impact of the pandemic, performance has improved on the previous year by 7%. However, I recognise that it remains an issue and am committed to improving the planning system for the benefit of all our stakeholders."},{"speaker":"Mr Dunne","text":"In Ards and North Down Borough Council, for example, the average waiting time for a general application varies from five to 18 months. Generally, consultations are the main cause of delay. I have spoken to applicants and agents, who single out DFI Roads and NI Water. What more can be done to improve the process? What engagement has the Minister had with the councils, given the regional disparities that exist between councils, which can be very frustrating for applicants and agents?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I thank the Member for his question. The cross-departmental forum is very much focused on improving response times for consultees, including those within my Department. I am also aware that there are capacity challenges. We have seen a significant increase in the volume and complexity of planning applications, particularly coming through to Rivers. I have been meeting officials to press on them the importance of getting these issues resolved as a matter of urgency. The chief planner and my officials have regular engagement with local councils because, of course, we monitor performance there and have an oversight role."},{"speaker":"Ms Brogan","text":"Another significant issue relating to the planning process in housing is unadopted roads. The Minister will know that, before recess, the Assembly passed a motion calling for action to address issues around unadopted roads, specifically with regard to people getting access to services such as gritting and bin collection. Will the Minister give us an update on measures that have been taken to resolve those problems, please?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I thank the Member for her question. A Regional Development Committee looked at that issue and produced a report with a number of recommendations, which the Department has been taking forward. Unadopted lanes and streets are a challenge for my Department. In the most recent assessment, the financial impact of bringing all of the unadopted streets and roads up to an adopted standard stood at £300 million on 2018 prices. We continue to work with residents who live in the affected areas and are impacted on by the issue. We successfully adopt a number of streets across Northern Ireland every year. It is a challenge given the extent but we continue to work on it, even within the current financial and capacity constraints."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Does the Minister recognise that the current planning policy is limited, or perhaps misinterpreted, in its ability to enable affordable housing schemes? I am not aware of any recent affordable housing schemes, in rural areas particularly."},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I thank the Member for her question. I am clear that we should have a planning system that enables us to build social and affordable homes. My officials have been working with the Department for Communities in this area, but a lot of it is determined in local councils. As councils work through their local development plans, there is an important opportunity to maximise the opportunities that we have across Northern Ireland to build the many homes that we need."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202496%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351142","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-10-04&docID=351844#AQO%202496/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351142"}},{"id":"350924","reference":"AQW 22945/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-22","answerBy":"2021-09-27","answered":"2021-11-16","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 protections have been put in place to ensure the High Street Stimulus scheme are not able to be spent by a person who has taken the card from the recipient.","answerText":"Each Spend Local Pre-paid card is given an individual security PIN. Details on how to activate each card and to retrieve the security PIN are advised to card recipients in a letter which accompanies each card. It is the card recipient’s responsibility to ensure the PIN is not shared and that the card is kept in a secure place.\n\nThe Department has set up an automated Customer Service Line where card recipients can report a lost or stolen card. You can also instantly report a lost or stolen card, and block or unblock your card from use through the client services portal.","answerHtml":"Each Spend Local Pre-paid card is given an individual security PIN. Details on how to activate each card and to retrieve the security PIN are advised to card recipients in a letter which accompanies each card. It is the card recipient’s responsibility to ensure the PIN is not shared and that the card is kept in a secure place.
The Department has set up an automated Customer Service Line where card recipients can report a lost or stolen card. You can also instantly report a lost or stolen card, and block or unblock your card from use through the client services portal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022945%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350924","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350924"}},{"id":"350923","reference":"AQW 22944/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-22","answerBy":"2021-10-07","answered":"2021-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what work her Department is progressing to deliver the New Decade, New Approach commitment to focus on the priorities of housing to build on the outcomes of the previous Programme for Government to be included in the next Programme for Government.","answerText":"A full update of ongoing initiatives by my Department regarding New Decade New Approach housing commitments can be found below in Annex\n\nAnnex A\n\nCommitments\tUpdate\nExecutive will also enhance investment in and agree a new target for new social and affordable home starts.\tSocial Housing\nA total of 2,403 social housing units were confirmed as actual starts during the 2020/21 year, exceeding the target of 1,850 starts. Of these starts, 2,111 are new build.\nA budget of £162m has been secured for the Social Housing Development Programme in 2021/22 (£26m more than in 20/21). The Housing Executive are confident that this year’s SHDP target of 1,900 starts will be met.\nI outlined my intention to ring fence part of the social housing budget, for areas of acute housing need.\nAffordable Intermediate Housing\nThe Co-Ownership Housing Association (Co-Ownership) is my Department’s main partner for the delivery of intermediate/affordable housing. £158 million of funding has been approved to assist 4,422 people into home ownership between 2020/21 to 2023/24. As of 31st August 2021, 1,737 homes have been delivered toward this target.\nCo-Ownership do not develop intermediate housing projects themselves, although 32% of Co-Ownership purchases for Q1 of 2021/22 were new builds.\nCo-Ownership also operate a Rent to Own scheme through their subsidiary OwnCo Homes. This scheme is funded by £12.5 million FTC loans to support the purchase of over 80 homes for rent and eventual purchase by those households which are not yet financially ready to purchase a home, even by way of shared ownership, to date 70 home purchases have been made & 27 rent to own customers have moved into home ownership.\nWork is also progressing with Co-ownership to develop a new Over 55 product aimed at providing an affordable housing option for older people. The proposal is to utilise £8m of Financial Transactions capital (FTC) to support the delivery of 118 homes over the next 4 years.\nIntermediate Rent\nThis will provide a much needed additional supply of good quality, well managed and maintained homes, which are affordable for lower income people and families. Intermediate rent homes can provide a better more affordable rental solution for some, or be a stepping stone for some into low cost home ownership for others. Following consultation, work to finalise the agreed model and implementation can progress.\nTackle the maintenance backlog for Housing Executive properties.\tRevitalisation plans were announced to the Assembly on 3rd November 2020. I intend to bring proposals to the Executive by March 2022, which will include details as to how to address the investment challenge facing the Housing Executive. Work has commenced on assessing the scale of this investment challenge and identifying suitable options to address these issues. A Programme Board has been established and has held a series of meetings on how to progress this work.\nPfG Outcomes Framework to be augmented with a new outcome and indicators to provide specific focus on ensuring every household has access to a good quality, affordable and sustainable home that is appropriate for its needs.\tThe Executive Office has responsibility for the Programme for Government Outcomes Framework. I have advised TEO that I remain committed to the inclusion of a standalone housing outcome in the final PfG in order that the importance of housing as the foundation for a wide range of social and economic outcomes is properly recognised.\nExecutive to bring forward legislation to reclassify Housing Associations as external to the public sector to ensure the continuation of new social house building and the Co-ownership Housing Scheme.\tThe Housing (Amendment) Act (NI) 2020 passed into law in August 2020.\nThe Executive will examine options to remove £307m historical debt from the Housing Executive (£185m of this is capital, £122m is interest) and exclude it from having to pay Corporation Tax.\tMy officials and DoF are taking forward a joint work stream to explore options for the removal of historical debt.\nThe Chancellor announced in his 2021 Budget that the Housing Executive would be exempted from Corporation Tax. This will be effective from the 2020-21 tax year. My department continues to liaise with DoF seeking the refund of the monies paid by Housing Executive.\nThe Executive will agree a long-term trajectory for the rental charges of the Housing Executive. This must be sufficient to support the long-term future of Housing Executive’s social housing stock and provide demonstrably affordable rents to tenants.\tWork is underway to determine the long term rent trajectory for Housing Executive rents. This is an integral part of a wider review of social housing rents.\nMeasures will be introduced, including legislation where necessary, to provide for controls to ensure affordability.\tI have asked officials to undertake a comprehensive rental review leading to the production of policy proposals to better align rents across the social housing sector. This will be particularly important as we develop proposals to address the significant investment challenge facing the Housing Executive.\nAnnex A (Page 52): British Government Financial and Economic Commitments.\nTurbocharging infrastructure\nThe Executive will benefit from increased funding for capital infrastructure investment as a result of the British Government’s infrastructure revolution.\nThe British Government agrees to financial flexibility to re-profile funding provided as part of the Fresh Start Agreement for shared and integrated education and housing.\tThe PfG ‘Housing for All’ programme runs over 4 years; the target is for 1000 shared housing units to be built over the period 2017/18-2020/21. DfC received in-year confirmation of ‘Fresh Start’ funding to deliver additional ‘shared housing’ in 20/21 (this is additional to the initial PfG target of 800 units over the period 17/18 – 20/21) The Draft PfG target of 800 units was achieved, and a further 197 units (including up to 20 affordable) will be delivered – giving a total of 977 + 20 ‘Housing for All’ units across 35 schemes. The Shared Housing Programme is now supporting 45 schemes in total with 1,480 units (483 units across the 10 T:buc schemes and 997 units across 35 ‘Housing for All’ schemes).","answerHtml":"A full update of ongoing initiatives by my Department regarding New Decade New Approach housing commitments can be found below in Annex
Annex A
| Commitments | Update |
| Executive will also enhance investment in and agree a new target for new social and affordable home starts. | Social Housing A total of 2,403 social housing units were confirmed as actual starts during the 2020/21 year, exceeding the target of 1,850 starts. Of these starts, 2,111 are new build. A budget of £162m has been secured for the Social Housing Development Programme in 2021/22 (£26m more than in 20/21). The Housing Executive are confident that this year’s SHDP target of 1,900 starts will be met. I outlined my intention to ring fence part of the social housing budget, for areas of acute housing need. Affordable Intermediate Housing The Co-Ownership Housing Association (Co-Ownership) is my Department’s main partner for the delivery of intermediate/affordable housing. £158 million of funding has been approved to assist 4,422 people into home ownership between 2020/21 to 2023/24. As of 31st August 2021, 1,737 homes have been delivered toward this target. Co-Ownership do not develop intermediate housing projects themselves, although 32% of Co-Ownership purchases for Q1 of 2021/22 were new builds. Co-Ownership also operate a Rent to Own scheme through their subsidiary OwnCo Homes. This scheme is funded by £12.5 million FTC loans to support the purchase of over 80 homes for rent and eventual purchase by those households which are not yet financially ready to purchase a home, even by way of shared ownership, to date 70 home purchases have been made & 27 rent to own customers have moved into home ownership. Work is also progressing with Co-ownership to develop a new Over 55 product aimed at providing an affordable housing option for older people. The proposal is to utilise £8m of Financial Transactions capital (FTC) to support the delivery of 118 homes over the next 4 years. Intermediate Rent This will provide a much needed additional supply of good quality, well managed and maintained homes, which are affordable for lower income people and families. Intermediate rent homes can provide a better more affordable rental solution for some, or be a stepping stone for some into low cost home ownership for others. Following consultation, work to finalise the agreed model and implementation can progress. |
| Tackle the maintenance backlog for Housing Executive properties. | Revitalisation plans were announced to the Assembly on 3rd November 2020. I intend to bring proposals to the Executive by March 2022, which will include details as to how to address the investment challenge facing the Housing Executive. Work has commenced on assessing the scale of this investment challenge and identifying suitable options to address these issues. A Programme Board has been established and has held a series of meetings on how to progress this work. |
| PfG Outcomes Framework to be augmented with a new outcome and indicators to provide specific focus on ensuring every household has access to a good quality, affordable and sustainable home that is appropriate for its needs. | The Executive Office has responsibility for the Programme for Government Outcomes Framework. I have advised TEO that I remain committed to the inclusion of a standalone housing outcome in the final PfG in order that the importance of housing as the foundation for a wide range of social and economic outcomes is properly recognised. |
| Executive to bring forward legislation to reclassify Housing Associations as external to the public sector to ensure the continuation of new social house building and the Co-ownership Housing Scheme. | The Housing (Amendment) Act (NI) 2020 passed into law in August 2020. |
| The Executive will examine options to remove £307m historical debt from the Housing Executive (£185m of this is capital, £122m is interest) and exclude it from having to pay Corporation Tax. | My officials and DoF are taking forward a joint work stream to explore options for the removal of historical debt. The Chancellor announced in his 2021 Budget that the Housing Executive would be exempted from Corporation Tax. This will be effective from the 2020-21 tax year. My department continues to liaise with DoF seeking the refund of the monies paid by Housing Executive. |
| The Executive will agree a long-term trajectory for the rental charges of the Housing Executive. This must be sufficient to support the long-term future of Housing Executive’s social housing stock and provide demonstrably affordable rents to tenants. | Work is underway to determine the long term rent trajectory for Housing Executive rents. This is an integral part of a wider review of social housing rents. |
| Measures will be introduced, including legislation where necessary, to provide for controls to ensure affordability. | I have asked officials to undertake a comprehensive rental review leading to the production of policy proposals to better align rents across the social housing sector. This will be particularly important as we develop proposals to address the significant investment challenge facing the Housing Executive. |
| Annex A (Page 52): British Government Financial and Economic Commitments. Turbocharging infrastructure The Executive will benefit from increased funding for capital infrastructure investment as a result of the British Government’s infrastructure revolution. The British Government agrees to financial flexibility to re-profile funding provided as part of the Fresh Start Agreement for shared and integrated education and housing. | The PfG ‘Housing for All’ programme runs over 4 years; the target is for 1000 shared housing units to be built over the period 2017/18-2020/21. DfC received in-year confirmation of ‘Fresh Start’ funding to deliver additional ‘shared housing’ in 20/21 (this is additional to the initial PfG target of 800 units over the period 17/18 – 20/21) The Draft PfG target of 800 units was achieved, and a further 197 units (including up to 20 affordable) will be delivered – giving a total of 977 + 20 ‘Housing for All’ units across 35 schemes. The Shared Housing Programme is now supporting 45 schemes in total with 1,480 units (483 units across the 10 T:buc schemes and 997 units across 35 ‘Housing for All’ schemes). |
I am leading on work to develop a Housing Supply Strategy, aimed at identifying and unlocking the major levers for increasing supply across all housing tenures. Given the cross cutting nature of this work, I have engaged with Ministerial Colleagues, including the Minister for Infrastructure on a number of occasions in the Strategy development process, including when seeking nominations for the Strategy Project Board and in advance of a Call for Evidence to inform the focus of the Strategy being issued.
The Call for Evidence recognised the important role the planning process has to play in delivery of new homes and included specific questions that sought evidence on issues around planning legislation, policies and processes. The analysis of information and evidence gathered has included bi-lateral engagement between my officials and planning officials from DfI.
The Department has engaged with DfI on how we might unlock and prioritise planning for sites for housing development in key areas of social housing need and address barriers to development from planning restrictions. The potential implications for the development of social housing due to infrastructural issues has been of concern, particularly given the increasing levels of housing stress and need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022943%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350922","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350922"}},{"id":"350921","reference":"AQW 22942/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-22","answerBy":"2021-10-07","answered":"2021-10-05","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 social sector selection criteria review; and when the housing points system will be updated.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has established a project team to take forward implementation of 18 of the 20 proposals. Further work will be carried out and alternatives considered for two proposals relating to intimidation points and interim accommodation points prior to their implementation.\n\nThe project team has commenced the planning stage for implementation and delivery of these proposals that will make the Housing Allocation Selection Scheme fairer and better at responding to objective need.\n\nThe intention is for implementation of a number of proposals to be underway by March 2022.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has established a project team to take forward implementation of 18 of the 20 proposals. Further work will be carried out and alternatives considered for two proposals relating to intimidation points and interim accommodation points prior to their implementation.
The project team has commenced the planning stage for implementation and delivery of these proposals that will make the Housing Allocation Selection Scheme fairer and better at responding to objective need.
The intention is for implementation of a number of proposals to be underway by March 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022942%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350921","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350921"}},{"id":"350920","reference":"AQW 22941/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-22","answerBy":"2021-10-07","answered":"2021-10-06","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 the work being done to create a Carers Register; and when the public consultation will go live.","answerText":"Carers Registers are maintained by the Health and Social Care Trusts which carers can voluntarily choose to join. These Registers are primarily a means of sharing information and advice with carers and for supporting carers through networks and activities.\n\nI previously expressed my wish to examine the possibility of developing a more robust central register when pressures allow. Under the Reform of Adult Social care officials will be bringing forward proposals for my consideration prior to a public consultation before the end of the year. Proposals to support carers will include consideration of a carers register.","answerHtml":"Carers Registers are maintained by the Health and Social Care Trusts which carers can voluntarily choose to join. These Registers are primarily a means of sharing information and advice with carers and for supporting carers through networks and activities.
I previously expressed my wish to examine the possibility of developing a more robust central register when pressures allow. Under the Reform of Adult Social care officials will be bringing forward proposals for my consideration prior to a public consultation before the end of the year. Proposals to support carers will include consideration of a carers register.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022941%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350920","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350920"}},{"id":"350350","reference":"AQW 22687/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-17","answerBy":"2021-09-22","answered":"2021-09-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether unpaid carers will be able to get their booster vaccine at the same time as the person for whom they care.","answerText":"The JCVI has advised that groups 1-9, prioritised in Phase 1 of the COVID-19 vaccination programme should be offered a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine. This includes:\n\nThose living in residential care homes for older adults;\n\nAll adults aged 50 years or over;\n\nFrontline health and social care workers;\n\nAll those aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 (as set out in the Green Book), and adult carers; and\n\nAdult household contacts of immunosuppressed individuals.\n\nCOVID-19 boosters will be deployed to groups 1-9 in the same order as they were delivered in Phase 1 of the Vaccination Programme with operational flexibility to be exercised where appropriate to maximise delivery.\n\nThe JCVI advice states that a COVID-19 booster vaccine dose should be offered no earlier than six months after completion of the primary vaccine course (two doses). The 6 month interval between second dose and booster dose will drive the timeline for delivery.\n\nIn practical terms this means there where a carer has not reached six months post second dose and the person they care for has, it would not be possible to vaccinate the carer. In addition, those at risk will primarily be vaccinated via GP practices whereas it is planned that carers be vaccinated via community pharmacy. In addition, where the carer is not registered at the same GP practice as the person they care for, it will not be possible for both individuals to be vaccinated at the same time.","answerHtml":"The JCVI has advised that groups 1-9, prioritised in Phase 1 of the COVID-19 vaccination programme should be offered a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine. This includes:
Those living in residential care homes for older adults;
All adults aged 50 years or over;
Frontline health and social care workers;
All those aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 (as set out in the Green Book), and adult carers; and
Adult household contacts of immunosuppressed individuals.
COVID-19 boosters will be deployed to groups 1-9 in the same order as they were delivered in Phase 1 of the Vaccination Programme with operational flexibility to be exercised where appropriate to maximise delivery.
The JCVI advice states that a COVID-19 booster vaccine dose should be offered no earlier than six months after completion of the primary vaccine course (two doses). The 6 month interval between second dose and booster dose will drive the timeline for delivery.
In practical terms this means there where a carer has not reached six months post second dose and the person they care for has, it would not be possible to vaccinate the carer. In addition, those at risk will primarily be vaccinated via GP practices whereas it is planned that carers be vaccinated via community pharmacy. In addition, where the carer is not registered at the same GP practice as the person they care for, it will not be possible for both individuals to be vaccinated at the same time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022687%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350350","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350350"}},{"id":"350349","reference":"AQW 22686/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-17","answerBy":"2021-10-04","answered":"2021-09-27","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 review of the Community Transport Section 10b permit and the potential introduction of a Section 22 permit, to enable connectivity in rural areas where Translink services are not regular or provided.","answerText":"There have been developments in Great Britain in respect of licensing requirements for non-profit making bodies. These developments include guidance relating to the recent Judgement on the meaning of non-commercial. My officials have considered the GB position and are currently preparing guidance for the issuers and users of Section 10B permits.\n\nThere are no plans at present regarding the introduction of Section 22 bus service permits but I am conscious of the need to support our local communities and provide social and welfare connectivity.","answerHtml":"There have been developments in Great Britain in respect of licensing requirements for non-profit making bodies. These developments include guidance relating to the recent Judgement on the meaning of non-commercial. My officials have considered the GB position and are currently preparing guidance for the issuers and users of Section 10B permits.
There are no plans at present regarding the introduction of Section 22 bus service permits but I am conscious of the need to support our local communities and provide social and welfare connectivity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022686%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350349","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350349"}},{"id":"350348","reference":"AQW 22685/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-17","answerBy":"2021-10-04","answered":"2021-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what consultation has taken place with beneficiaries of community transport provision to consider how to better meet access needs.","answerText":"My Department provides grant funding to the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) as a contribution towards the delivery of Dial-a-Lift (DAL) services in rural areas, and to Disability Action who manage the Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS) in urban areas. My Department has not undertaken a specific consultation with beneficiaries to consider how to better meet access needs. It has however gathered information from a number of sources in order to determine if community transport services meets the needs of the user. The sources used to gather this information are detailed below:\n\nA report “Serving Northern Ireland – Community Transport During Coronavirus” was produced by the Community Transport Association (CTA), in November 2020, at the Department’s request (https://ctauk.org/report-serving-ni-ct-during-covid/). In order to inform the report, CTA conducted a series of interviews with its members to assess how services have shifted and hear about the hard work that was undertaken to meet new needs. The report also shares stories from passengers, as well as local councils and community groups who partnered with community transport during the covid response period.\n\nA review, in late 2019, was undertaken of the current delivery model for community transport services funded by your Department. The review was restricted to DAL only. In undertaking this review contact was made with members/beneficiaries to seek their views of the service being provided.\n\nFeedback has been obtained from passengers on the service as part of its spot check process. This process involves officials going out periodically to each Community Transport Organisation to ensure that the operational aspects of the services are delivered in line with best practice and Departmental requirements. It includes one of my officials going on bus journeys to talk to passengers about their view of the service. The last spot check was carried out in December 2019, prior to the onset of Covid.\n\nMy officials have regular review meetings with the managers of the RCTPS and Disability Action (DA). These meetings provide an opportunity for the managers to raise concerns expressed by their users","answerHtml":"My Department provides grant funding to the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) as a contribution towards the delivery of Dial-a-Lift (DAL) services in rural areas, and to Disability Action who manage the Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS) in urban areas. My Department has not undertaken a specific consultation with beneficiaries to consider how to better meet access needs. It has however gathered information from a number of sources in order to determine if community transport services meets the needs of the user. The sources used to gather this information are detailed below:
A report “Serving Northern Ireland – Community Transport During Coronavirus” was produced by the Community Transport Association (CTA), in November 2020, at the Department’s request (https://ctauk.org/report-serving-ni-ct-during-covid/). In order to inform the report, CTA conducted a series of interviews with its members to assess how services have shifted and hear about the hard work that was undertaken to meet new needs. The report also shares stories from passengers, as well as local councils and community groups who partnered with community transport during the covid response period.
A review, in late 2019, was undertaken of the current delivery model for community transport services funded by your Department. The review was restricted to DAL only. In undertaking this review contact was made with members/beneficiaries to seek their views of the service being provided.
Feedback has been obtained from passengers on the service as part of its spot check process. This process involves officials going out periodically to each Community Transport Organisation to ensure that the operational aspects of the services are delivered in line with best practice and Departmental requirements. It includes one of my officials going on bus journeys to talk to passengers about their view of the service. The last spot check was carried out in December 2019, prior to the onset of Covid.
My officials have regular review meetings with the managers of the RCTPS and Disability Action (DA). These meetings provide an opportunity for the managers to raise concerns expressed by their users
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022685%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350348","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350348"}},{"id":"350347","reference":"AQW 22684/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-17","answerBy":"2021-10-04","answered":"2021-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for a breakdown of the total amount of funding provided through the Rural Transport Fund, broken down by community transport provider and how many passengers availed of the transport provided, for each of the last five years.","answerText":"My Department provides resource funding via the Rural Transport Fund to support eleven rural community transport providers across eight operational areas to deliver Dial-a-Lift (DAL). The tables below show information for each provider over the last five years for resource funding received and the number of active users who availed of DAL.\n\nRural Transport Fund - Resource Funding\n\nTransport Provider\t2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\nCDM *\t£443,085\t£442,308\t£431,533\t£417,983\t£422,611\nDown District Accessible Transport\t£333,543\t£322,975\t£312,758\t£301,787\t£297,120\nEasilink Community Transport\t£334,000\t£333,414\t£322,867\t£381,690\t£306,723\nFermanagh Community Transport\t£350,613\t£349,998\t£338,926\t£326,180\t£321,980\nLagan Valley Rural Transport\t£125,587\t£125,366\t£121,400\t£119,064\t£115,330\nNorth Coast Community Transport\t£419,122\t£418,387\t£405,152\t£477,194\t£384,894\nSouth Antrim Community Transport\t£128,354\t£128,129\t£124,075\t£120,205\t£117,871\nSouthern Area Partnership**\t£310,630\t£310,085\t£300,275\t£294,128\t£285,262\nTotals\t£2,444,934\t£2,430,663\t£2,356,987\t£2,438,231\t£2,251,792\n\nDial-a-Lift Scheme - Numbers of Individual Users\n\nYear\t2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21***\nTransport Provider\tActiveUsers\n(members)\tActiveUsers\n(members)\tActiveUsers\n(members)\tActiveUsers\n(members)\tActiveUsers\n(members & non-members)\nCDM **\t1,186\t1,142\t1,013\t985\t1,289\nDown District Accessible Transport\t381\t440\t403\t436\t894\nEasilink Community Transport\t589\t558\t507\t493\t2,246\nFermanagh Community Transport\t599\t585\t517\t508\t1,858\nLagan Valley Rural Transport\t143\t124\t123\t119\t58\nNorth Coast Community Transport\t916\t1,040\t1,093\t1,008\t460\nSouth Antrim Community Transport\t343\t372\t361\t318\t487\nSouthern Area Partnership ***\t495\t530\t492\t501\t1,130\nTotals\t4,652\t4,791\t4,509\t4,368\t8,422\n\n* CDM incorporates CDM Community Transport & Out and About Community Transport.\n\n** Southern Area Partnership incorporates: Armagh Rural Transport, Down Armagh Rural Transport and Newry & Mourne Community Transport.\n\n*** During 2020/21 the impact of Covid resulted in a reduction in demand for transport. In response to the needs of the local community, community transport services were transitioned, on a temporary basis, to include delivery type services ie delivery of grocery/DfC food parcels, meals on wheels, prescriptions. It also included transport for vaccinations. These transitioned services were also offered to non-members which has resulted in the increase of active user numbers.","answerHtml":"My Department provides resource funding via the Rural Transport Fund to support eleven rural community transport providers across eight operational areas to deliver Dial-a-Lift (DAL). The tables below show information for each provider over the last five years for resource funding received and the number of active users who availed of DAL.
Rural Transport Fund - Resource Funding
| Transport Provider | 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 |
| CDM * | £443,085 | £442,308 | £431,533 | £417,983 | £422,611 |
| Down District Accessible Transport | £333,543 | £322,975 | £312,758 | £301,787 | £297,120 |
| Easilink Community Transport | £334,000 | £333,414 | £322,867 | £381,690 | £306,723 |
| Fermanagh Community Transport | £350,613 | £349,998 | £338,926 | £326,180 | £321,980 |
| Lagan Valley Rural Transport | £125,587 | £125,366 | £121,400 | £119,064 | £115,330 |
| North Coast Community Transport | £419,122 | £418,387 | £405,152 | £477,194 | £384,894 |
| South Antrim Community Transport | £128,354 | £128,129 | £124,075 | £120,205 | £117,871 |
| Southern Area Partnership** | £310,630 | £310,085 | £300,275 | £294,128 | £285,262 |
| Totals | £2,444,934 | £2,430,663 | £2,356,987 | £2,438,231 | £2,251,792 |
Dial-a-Lift Scheme - Numbers of Individual Users
| Year | 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21*** |
| Transport Provider | ActiveUsers (members) | ActiveUsers (members) | ActiveUsers (members) | ActiveUsers (members) | ActiveUsers (members & non-members) |
| CDM ** | 1,186 | 1,142 | 1,013 | 985 | 1,289 |
| Down District Accessible Transport | 381 | 440 | 403 | 436 | 894 |
| Easilink Community Transport | 589 | 558 | 507 | 493 | 2,246 |
| Fermanagh Community Transport | 599 | 585 | 517 | 508 | 1,858 |
| Lagan Valley Rural Transport | 143 | 124 | 123 | 119 | 58 |
| North Coast Community Transport | 916 | 1,040 | 1,093 | 1,008 | 460 |
| South Antrim Community Transport | 343 | 372 | 361 | 318 | 487 |
| Southern Area Partnership *** | 495 | 530 | 492 | 501 | 1,130 |
| Totals | 4,652 | 4,791 | 4,509 | 4,368 | 8,422 |
* CDM incorporates CDM Community Transport & Out and About Community Transport.
** Southern Area Partnership incorporates: Armagh Rural Transport, Down Armagh Rural Transport and Newry & Mourne Community Transport.
*** During 2020/21 the impact of Covid resulted in a reduction in demand for transport. In response to the needs of the local community, community transport services were transitioned, on a temporary basis, to include delivery type services ie delivery of grocery/DfC food parcels, meals on wheels, prescriptions. It also included transport for vaccinations. These transitioned services were also offered to non-members which has resulted in the increase of active user numbers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022684%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350347","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350347"}},{"id":"350346","reference":"AQW 22683/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-17","answerBy":"2021-10-04","answered":"2021-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) what input her Department has had with the Department for Communities to address the transport issues raised as part of the social strategies under development particularly for older people and people with disability; and (ii) whether she will continue to provide effective funding to enable Community Transport to continue to operate one-to-one and group transport for rural dwellers, older people and people with disabilities.","answerText":"Senior officials from my Department have been working with the Department for Communities to develop each Social Inclusion Strategy. My officials will be attending workshops with the individual Co-Design Groups during the early part of October in order to progress the Strategies.\n\nI recognise the key role of community transport in providing accessible, affordable transport options across rural and urban communities to those people who are socially isolated and have difficulty accessing public transport. My Department provides grant funding to the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) as a contribution towards the delivery of Dial-a-Lift (DAL) services in rural areas, and to Disability Action who manage the Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS) in urban areas. I remain committed to working hard to ensure my Department continues to support community transport, and the important services that it delivers, within the context of the severe budget constraints faced by my Department.","answerHtml":"Senior officials from my Department have been working with the Department for Communities to develop each Social Inclusion Strategy. My officials will be attending workshops with the individual Co-Design Groups during the early part of October in order to progress the Strategies.
I recognise the key role of community transport in providing accessible, affordable transport options across rural and urban communities to those people who are socially isolated and have difficulty accessing public transport. My Department provides grant funding to the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) as a contribution towards the delivery of Dial-a-Lift (DAL) services in rural areas, and to Disability Action who manage the Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS) in urban areas. I remain committed to working hard to ensure my Department continues to support community transport, and the important services that it delivers, within the context of the severe budget constraints faced by my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022683%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350346","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350346"}},{"id":"350099","reference":"AQW 22590/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-16","answerBy":"2021-10-01","answered":"2021-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what communication his Department has had with Health and Social Care Trusts in regards to the South Eastern Trust's request to minimise the volume of constituency enquiries that are sent; and how his Department is working with the Trusts to ensure constituents enquires are being met.","answerText":"My Department is satisfied that HSC Trusts remain fully committed to responding to correspondence from elected representatives in a timely fashion. When Members raise concerns on behalf of individual constituents, these should certainly be given appropriate priority.\n\nIt is important to note that responses to correspondence often require input from staff who are managing competing and unprecedented pressures across health and social care services. I know Members will be cognisant of these pressures, in relation to the quantity of their correspondence and the timescale for responses.","answerHtml":"My Department is satisfied that HSC Trusts remain fully committed to responding to correspondence from elected representatives in a timely fashion. When Members raise concerns on behalf of individual constituents, these should certainly be given appropriate priority.
It is important to note that responses to correspondence often require input from staff who are managing competing and unprecedented pressures across health and social care services. I know Members will be cognisant of these pressures, in relation to the quantity of their correspondence and the timescale for responses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022590%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350099","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350099"}},{"id":"349852","reference":"AQW 22496/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-15","answerBy":"2021-09-30","answered":"2021-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health who will be prioritised for the COVID-19 booster jabs.","answerText":"From the outset of the Northern Ireland Covid 19 Vaccination Programme we have been guided by the advice of the JCVI, an independent panel of experts.\n\nJCVI advises that for the 2021 COVID-19 booster vaccine programme, individuals who received vaccination in Phase 1 of the COVID-19 vaccination programme (priority groups 1-9) should be offered a third dose COVID-19 booster vaccine. This includes:\n\nThose living in residential care homes for older adults;\n\nFrontline health and social care workers;\n\nAll adults aged 50 years or over;\n\nAll those aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 (as set out in the Green Book), and adult carers; and\n\nAdult household contacts of immunosuppressed individuals.\n\nIn addition, JCVI advises that the booster vaccine dose is offered no earlier than six months after completion of the primary vaccine course ie not less than six months after receipt of second dose. JCVI also advise that the booster programme should be deployed in the same order as during Phase 1, with operational flexibility exercised where appropriate to maximise delivery.","answerHtml":"From the outset of the Northern Ireland Covid 19 Vaccination Programme we have been guided by the advice of the JCVI, an independent panel of experts.
JCVI advises that for the 2021 COVID-19 booster vaccine programme, individuals who received vaccination in Phase 1 of the COVID-19 vaccination programme (priority groups 1-9) should be offered a third dose COVID-19 booster vaccine. This includes:
Those living in residential care homes for older adults;
Frontline health and social care workers;
All adults aged 50 years or over;
All those aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 (as set out in the Green Book), and adult carers; and
Adult household contacts of immunosuppressed individuals.
In addition, JCVI advises that the booster vaccine dose is offered no earlier than six months after completion of the primary vaccine course ie not less than six months after receipt of second dose. JCVI also advise that the booster programme should be deployed in the same order as during Phase 1, with operational flexibility exercised where appropriate to maximise delivery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022496%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349852","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349852"}},{"id":"349851","reference":"AQW 22495/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-15","answerBy":"2021-09-30","answered":"2021-10-18","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 his review of day centre provision; and why special schools can reopen but day centres using the same Infection Prevention and Control advice are unable to open.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency began a review of Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) guidelines in Health & Social Care (HSC) settings in June 2021. Following the establishment of a multi-agency Task & Finish Group, significant progress has been made to determine clear and standardised ways to fully restore adult day care and short break services. This has been underpinned by risk analysis and direct engagement with carers through the Patient Client Council. The review has entered its final stage and a co-produced framework will be presented to my Department in the coming weeks.\n\nSpecial Schools are not subject to the IPC guidance for HSC settings and present a different risk profile than day centres, due to the varying age of service users and the higher numbers of staff required to support assessed need.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency began a review of Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) guidelines in Health & Social Care (HSC) settings in June 2021. Following the establishment of a multi-agency Task & Finish Group, significant progress has been made to determine clear and standardised ways to fully restore adult day care and short break services. This has been underpinned by risk analysis and direct engagement with carers through the Patient Client Council. The review has entered its final stage and a co-produced framework will be presented to my Department in the coming weeks.
Special Schools are not subject to the IPC guidance for HSC settings and present a different risk profile than day centres, due to the varying age of service users and the higher numbers of staff required to support assessed need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022495%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349851","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349851"}},{"id":"349850","reference":"AQW 22494/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-15","answerBy":"2021-09-30","answered":"2021-09-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education pursuant to AQW 21821/17-22, to provide details of the number of projects.","answerText":"In my response to AQW 21821/17-22 I set out the four phases of the Development Proposal (DP) process. My Department is engaged in this process at phase four, when a DP is published. Prior to that point, my Department has no involvement in the managing authority and sectoral body representatives’ considerations regarding the planning of provision.\n\nThe pre-publication page of the Education Authority’s (EA) website - https://www.eani.org.uk/school-management/area-planning/pre-publication-consultations - remains the appropriate source of information on existing planning considerations. There may, however, be other workstreams under consideration that have not formally progressed to this point. As I have indicated that my Department is only engaged at the publication phase, I do not have details of the number of projects that are in train at any point of time.","answerHtml":"In my response to AQW 21821/17-22 I set out the four phases of the Development Proposal (DP) process. My Department is engaged in this process at phase four, when a DP is published. Prior to that point, my Department has no involvement in the managing authority and sectoral body representatives’ considerations regarding the planning of provision.
The pre-publication page of the Education Authority’s (EA) website - https://www.eani.org.uk/school-management/area-planning/pre-publication-consultations - remains the appropriate source of information on existing planning considerations. There may, however, be other workstreams under consideration that have not formally progressed to this point. As I have indicated that my Department is only engaged at the publication phase, I do not have details of the number of projects that are in train at any point of time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022494%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349850","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349850"}},{"id":"349849","reference":"AQW 22493/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-15","answerBy":"2021-09-30","answered":"2021-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline how much was allocated to the Pathway Fund from her Department for 2020/21 and 2021/22.","answerText":"The Pathway Fund application process currently operates on a biennial basis. It is anticipated that the next round of applications will take place in the months prior to the start of the 2023/24 financial year, subject to Business Case approval and Budget availability.\n\nApplicant settings are not contacted directly by the Department ahead of the application process launching, however information will be made available on the Department’s website, including guidance on how to apply. The Department will instruct the Pathway Fund administrator to widely advertise the Fund to ensure maximum reach and exposure to all eligible applicants.\n\nThe Pathway Fund was allocated £2.94m in both 2020/21 and 2021/22. This was supplemented with further allocations of £450k (2020/21) and £910k (2021/22) from DoF Covid-19 funding, enabling all eligible settings to receive an award.","answerHtml":"The Pathway Fund application process currently operates on a biennial basis. It is anticipated that the next round of applications will take place in the months prior to the start of the 2023/24 financial year, subject to Business Case approval and Budget availability.
Applicant settings are not contacted directly by the Department ahead of the application process launching, however information will be made available on the Department’s website, including guidance on how to apply. The Department will instruct the Pathway Fund administrator to widely advertise the Fund to ensure maximum reach and exposure to all eligible applicants.
The Pathway Fund was allocated £2.94m in both 2020/21 and 2021/22. This was supplemented with further allocations of £450k (2020/21) and £910k (2021/22) from DoF Covid-19 funding, enabling all eligible settings to receive an award.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022493%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349849","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349849"}},{"id":"349848","reference":"AQW 22492/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-15","answerBy":"2021-09-30","answered":"2021-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to confirm (i) when the Pathway Fund will open again for future rounds of funding; (ii) whether all preschool settings will be contacted to make them aware of this funding source; and (iii) by what method will they be notified.","answerText":"The Pathway Fund application process currently operates on a biennial basis. It is anticipated that the next round of applications will take place in the months prior to the start of the 2023/24 financial year, subject to Business Case approval and Budget availability.\n\nApplicant settings are not contacted directly by the Department ahead of the application process launching, however information will be made available on the Department’s website, including guidance on how to apply. The Department will instruct the Pathway Fund administrator to widely advertise the Fund to ensure maximum reach and exposure to all eligible applicants.\n\nThe Pathway Fund was allocated £2.94m in both 2020/21 and 2021/22. This was supplemented with further allocations of £450k (2020/21) and £910k (2021/22) from DoF Covid-19 funding, enabling all eligible settings to receive an award.","answerHtml":"The Pathway Fund application process currently operates on a biennial basis. It is anticipated that the next round of applications will take place in the months prior to the start of the 2023/24 financial year, subject to Business Case approval and Budget availability.
Applicant settings are not contacted directly by the Department ahead of the application process launching, however information will be made available on the Department’s website, including guidance on how to apply. The Department will instruct the Pathway Fund administrator to widely advertise the Fund to ensure maximum reach and exposure to all eligible applicants.
The Pathway Fund was allocated £2.94m in both 2020/21 and 2021/22. This was supplemented with further allocations of £450k (2020/21) and £910k (2021/22) from DoF Covid-19 funding, enabling all eligible settings to receive an award.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022492%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349848","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349848"}},{"id":"349653","reference":"AQW 22372/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-14","answerBy":"2021-09-29","answered":"2021-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for a breakdown of all the beneficiaries of the Pathway Fund, including the amounts for 2020/21 and 2021/22.","answerText":"I have arranged for the information to be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"I have arranged for the information to be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022372%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349653"}},{"id":"349652","reference":"AQW 22371/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-14","answerBy":"2021-09-29","answered":"2021-10-05","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 (i) for an update on how many refugees have been located to NI through the (a) MOD ARAP scheme; and (b) the Foreign Office Special Cases Scheme; and (ii) how many refugees the Home Office has proposed will be located to NI through the Resettlement Scheme.","answerText":"We have been distressed by the harrowing scenes from Afghanistan.\n\nJust as for the Syrian Refugees, we want to play our part in responding to this humanitarian crisis and the Executive united in a commitment to do so at its meeting on 6 September.\n\nWe have written to the Prime Minister formally committing to resettle 3% of citizens under both the ‘Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy’ (ARAP) and the ‘Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme’ (ACRS). We have not been asked to receive any citizens under the Foreign Office Special Cases Scheme.\n\nThis means we will welcome 840 vulnerable citizens to make their home here, with some 360 arrivals anticipated over the course of the next year. The Strategic Planning Group is working to make preparations to support arrivals as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"We have been distressed by the harrowing scenes from Afghanistan.
Just as for the Syrian Refugees, we want to play our part in responding to this humanitarian crisis and the Executive united in a commitment to do so at its meeting on 6 September.
We have written to the Prime Minister formally committing to resettle 3% of citizens under both the ‘Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy’ (ARAP) and the ‘Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme’ (ACRS). We have not been asked to receive any citizens under the Foreign Office Special Cases Scheme.
This means we will welcome 840 vulnerable citizens to make their home here, with some 360 arrivals anticipated over the course of the next year. The Strategic Planning Group is working to make preparations to support arrivals as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022371%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349652","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349652"}},{"id":"349651","reference":"AQW 22370/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-14","answerBy":"2021-09-29","answered":"2021-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether her Department will ensure the Education Authority and Council for Catholic Maintained Schools bulk purchase an agreed standard of carbon monoxide monitors for use in classrooms to deliver savings through scale of contact.","answerText":"I can advise that following discussions with professional colleagues within the Education Authority (EA) and more recently with the Department for Education (DfE) in England, I have agreed that the EA should purchase a supply of 1,000 CO2 monitors to be utilised by its Maintenance Officers in schools as required.\n\nI have also agreed that the EA should commence the larger scale purchase of CO2 monitors for the wider deployment to all schools. I intend to bid in the October Monitoring for the capital budget to support the purchase of the increased number of mobile CO2 monitors to support a broader roll-out to schools.","answerHtml":"I can advise that following discussions with professional colleagues within the Education Authority (EA) and more recently with the Department for Education (DfE) in England, I have agreed that the EA should purchase a supply of 1,000 CO2 monitors to be utilised by its Maintenance Officers in schools as required.
I have also agreed that the EA should commence the larger scale purchase of CO2 monitors for the wider deployment to all schools. I intend to bid in the October Monitoring for the capital budget to support the purchase of the increased number of mobile CO2 monitors to support a broader roll-out to schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022370%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349651","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349651"}},{"id":"349650","reference":"AQW 22369/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-14","answerBy":"2021-09-29","answered":"2021-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission (i) when it plans to replace the laptops allocated to Members; and (ii) whether it will provide flexibility on the number of laptops for which a Member can apply.","answerText":"The Assembly Commission determines the allocation of computer equipment and software to all Members during their term of office. Under the current arrangements, Members are entitled to 5 computers in total - 1 desktop computer in Parliament Buildings, 1 desktop computer in a constituency office, 1 tablet computer and up to 2 others (either desktops or laptops). In addition, under the terms of the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2016 as amended by the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) (Amendment) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2020, Members can procure additional laptop computers using their Constituency Office Expenses.\n\nThe current laptops allocated to Members were issued in early 2015 and are still considered fit for purpose.\n\nThe Assembly Commission plans to review the provision of laptop computers provided to Members in advance of the start of the new Mandate in 2022, which will include consideration of the number and range.","answerHtml":"The Assembly Commission determines the allocation of computer equipment and software to all Members during their term of office. Under the current arrangements, Members are entitled to 5 computers in total - 1 desktop computer in Parliament Buildings, 1 desktop computer in a constituency office, 1 tablet computer and up to 2 others (either desktops or laptops). In addition, under the terms of the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2016 as amended by the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) (Amendment) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2020, Members can procure additional laptop computers using their Constituency Office Expenses.
The current laptops allocated to Members were issued in early 2015 and are still considered fit for purpose.
The Assembly Commission plans to review the provision of laptop computers provided to Members in advance of the start of the new Mandate in 2022, which will include consideration of the number and range.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022369%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349650","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349650"}},{"id":"349649","reference":"AQW 22368/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-14","answerBy":"2021-09-29","answered":"2021-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to detail the current WIFI upload and download speeds being achieved, broken down by floor, in Parliament Buildings.","answerText":"The following Wi-Fi upload and download speeds were recorded in Parliament Buildings on 17 September 2021.\n\nBasement\n\nLocation\tDownload Speed (Mbps)\tUpload Speed (Mbps)\nSouth-East Corner (Blue Flax)\t12.9\t27.4\nNorth-East Corner (B24)\t47.3\t54.3\nCorridor - North Central (B34)\t46.4\t33.3\nNorth-West Corner (B38)\t46.4\t56.1\nSouth-West Corner (B4)\t46.5\t51.7\nCorridor - South Central (B13)\t47.5\t56.2\n\nGround Floor\n\nLocation\tDownload Speed (Mbps)\tUpload Speed (Mbps)\nSouth-East Corner (Rm 20)\t48.0\t56.3\nNorth-East Corner (Rm 24)\t45.6\t52.5\nCorridor - North Central (Library)\t7.5\t14.9\nNorth-West Corner (Rm 40)\t45.8\t53.2\nSouth-West Corner (Rm 4)\t46.4\t54.5\nCorridor - South Central (Reception)\t5.1\t9.2\nGreat Hall\t8.5\t15.0\nSenate Chamber\t37.7\t55.2\nPlenary Chamber (Speakers Desk)\t23.9\t18.4\n\nFirst Floor\n\nLocation\tDownload Speed (Mbps)\tUpload Speed (Mbps)\nSouth-East Corner (PDR)\t47.8\t55.5\nNorth-East Corner (Rm 126)\t44.4\t50.4\nCorridor - North Central (Stairs)\t25.3\t38.0\nNorth-West Corner (Rm 152)\t47.6\t55.5\nSouth-West Corner (Rm 106)\t45.5\t53.1\nCorridor - South Central (MDR)\t18.3\t13.8\n\nSecond Floor\n\nLocation\tDownload Speed (Mbps)\tUpload Speed (Mbps)\nSouth-East Corner (Rm 230)\t46.2\t53.0\nNorth-East Corner (Rm 236)\t17.4\t23.1\nCorridor - North Central (Stairs)\t26.0\t41.8\nNorth-West Corner (Rm 263)\t19.2\t30.2\nSouth-West Corner (Rm 207)\t14.9\t25.1\nCorridor - South Central (Rm 219)\t47.2\t52.5\nCentral Corridor (Rm 274)\t44.4\t46.5\n\nThird Floor\n\nLocation\tDownload Speed (Mbps)\tUpload Speed (Mbps)\nSouth-East Corner (Rm 323)\t46.3\t54.0\nNorth-East Corner (Rm 330)\t47.6\t51.7\nCorridor - North Central (Stairs)\t30.2\t39.6\nNorth-West Corner (Rm 356)\t46.5\t54.6\nSouth-West Corner (Rm 305)\t47.2\t54.9\nCorridor - South Central (Rm 315)\t45.4\t44.8\nCentral Corridor (Rm 374)\t43.5\t46.0\n359 Side Corridor\t41.1\t49.4\n385 Side Corridor\t47.2\t53.9\n\nFourth Floor\n\nLocation\tDownload Speed (Mbps)\tUpload Speed (Mbps)\nSouth-East Corner (Rm 410)\t19.9\t19.3\nNorth-East Corner (Rm 419)\t46.4\t52.5\nCorridor - North Central (Stairs)\t46.8\t52.8\nNorth-West Corner (Rm 425)\t48.0\t55.6\nSouth-West Corner (Rm 435)\t47.8\t50.2\nCorridor - South Central (Rm 402)\t31.7\t29.6\nRm 401 Conference Room\t41.2\t33.6","answerHtml":"The following Wi-Fi upload and download speeds were recorded in Parliament Buildings on 17 September 2021.
Basement
| Location | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) |
| South-East Corner (Blue Flax) | 12.9 | 27.4 |
| North-East Corner (B24) | 47.3 | 54.3 |
| Corridor - North Central (B34) | 46.4 | 33.3 |
| North-West Corner (B38) | 46.4 | 56.1 |
| South-West Corner (B4) | 46.5 | 51.7 |
| Corridor - South Central (B13) | 47.5 | 56.2 |
Ground Floor
| Location | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) |
| South-East Corner (Rm 20) | 48.0 | 56.3 |
| North-East Corner (Rm 24) | 45.6 | 52.5 |
| Corridor - North Central (Library) | 7.5 | 14.9 |
| North-West Corner (Rm 40) | 45.8 | 53.2 |
| South-West Corner (Rm 4) | 46.4 | 54.5 |
| Corridor - South Central (Reception) | 5.1 | 9.2 |
| Great Hall | 8.5 | 15.0 |
| Senate Chamber | 37.7 | 55.2 |
| Plenary Chamber (Speakers Desk) | 23.9 | 18.4 |
First Floor
| Location | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) |
| South-East Corner (PDR) | 47.8 | 55.5 |
| North-East Corner (Rm 126) | 44.4 | 50.4 |
| Corridor - North Central (Stairs) | 25.3 | 38.0 |
| North-West Corner (Rm 152) | 47.6 | 55.5 |
| South-West Corner (Rm 106) | 45.5 | 53.1 |
| Corridor - South Central (MDR) | 18.3 | 13.8 |
Second Floor
| Location | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) |
| South-East Corner (Rm 230) | 46.2 | 53.0 |
| North-East Corner (Rm 236) | 17.4 | 23.1 |
| Corridor - North Central (Stairs) | 26.0 | 41.8 |
| North-West Corner (Rm 263) | 19.2 | 30.2 |
| South-West Corner (Rm 207) | 14.9 | 25.1 |
| Corridor - South Central (Rm 219) | 47.2 | 52.5 |
| Central Corridor (Rm 274) | 44.4 | 46.5 |
Third Floor
| Location | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) |
| South-East Corner (Rm 323) | 46.3 | 54.0 |
| North-East Corner (Rm 330) | 47.6 | 51.7 |
| Corridor - North Central (Stairs) | 30.2 | 39.6 |
| North-West Corner (Rm 356) | 46.5 | 54.6 |
| South-West Corner (Rm 305) | 47.2 | 54.9 |
| Corridor - South Central (Rm 315) | 45.4 | 44.8 |
| Central Corridor (Rm 374) | 43.5 | 46.0 |
| 359 Side Corridor | 41.1 | 49.4 |
| 385 Side Corridor | 47.2 | 53.9 |
Fourth Floor
| Location | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) |
| South-East Corner (Rm 410) | 19.9 | 19.3 |
| North-East Corner (Rm 419) | 46.4 | 52.5 |
| Corridor - North Central (Stairs) | 46.8 | 52.8 |
| North-West Corner (Rm 425) | 48.0 | 55.6 |
| South-West Corner (Rm 435) | 47.8 | 50.2 |
| Corridor - South Central (Rm 402) | 31.7 | 29.6 |
| Rm 401 Conference Room | 41.2 | 33.6 |
At its meeting on 8 July 2021, The Assembly Commission agreed that any new Determination on MLAs allowances would only be published alongside progress of the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill in the next mandate.
Therefore, a review of allowances payable to Members to include the level of rent payable for a constituency office will be undertaken once progress has been made on the Assembly Members (Remuneration Board) Bill in the next Assembly mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022266%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349499","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349499"}},{"id":"349498","reference":"AQW 22265/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-13","answerBy":"2021-09-28","answered":"2021-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to list (i) the membership of the Heritage Stakeholders Group; and (ii) the dates the group has met in 2021, 2020 and 2019.","answerText":"I list below the current members of the Historic Environment Stakeholder Group:\n\nABC Borough Council\n\nArchitectural Heritage Fund\n\nBelfast Buildings Trust\n\nBelfast City Council\n\nBelfast Civic Trust\n\nCathedral Quarter Trust\n\nCommunity Relations Council\n\nDerry City & Strabane District Council\n\nFederation of Ulster Local Studies\n\nHistoric Buildings Council\n\nHEARTH\n\nHistoric Environment Division\n\nHeritage Council\n\nHeritage Trust Network\n\nHistoric Houses\n\nHistoric Royal Palaces\n\nHistoric Monuments Council\n\nInstitute of Historic Building Conservation\n\nIrish Georgian Society\n\nLibraries NI\n\nLinenhall Library\n\nLondonderry Inner City Trust\n\nMaritime Belfast Trust\n\nMinisterial Advisory Group on Architecture and the Built Environment\n\nNational Lottery Heritage Fund\n\nNational Trust\n\nNewry Mourne and Down District Council\n\nNI Chamber of Commerce\n\nNI Environment Link\n\nNI Local Government Association\n\nNI Museums Council\n\nNI Protected Areas Network\n\nNI Tourism Alliance\n\nNational Museums NI\n\nPublic Records Office NI\n\nQUB (Schools of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics (HAPP) and Natural and Built Environment (NBE))\n\nRoyal Society of Ulster Architects/ Royal Institution of British Architects\n\nRoyal Town Planning Institute\n\nSociety for the Protection of Ancient Buildings Ireland\n\nTourism NI\n\nUlster Architectural Heritage\n\nUlster University\n\nThe Group met on the following dates:\n\n2019\t2020\t2021\n29 January\t3 March\t21 January\n30 April\t22 June\t2 March\n3 September\t10 August\t13 May\n3 December\t27 August\t29 June\n30 September\t23 August\n20 November\nThe 22 June 2020 and all subsequent meetings have been held virtually","answerHtml":"I list below the current members of the Historic Environment Stakeholder Group:
ABC Borough Council
Architectural Heritage Fund
Belfast Buildings Trust
Belfast City Council
Belfast Civic Trust
Cathedral Quarter Trust
Community Relations Council
Derry City & Strabane District Council
Federation of Ulster Local Studies
Historic Buildings Council
HEARTH
Historic Environment Division
Heritage Council
Heritage Trust Network
Historic Houses
Historic Royal Palaces
Historic Monuments Council
Institute of Historic Building Conservation
Irish Georgian Society
Libraries NI
Linenhall Library
Londonderry Inner City Trust
Maritime Belfast Trust
Ministerial Advisory Group on Architecture and the Built Environment
National Lottery Heritage Fund
National Trust
Newry Mourne and Down District Council
NI Chamber of Commerce
NI Environment Link
NI Local Government Association
NI Museums Council
NI Protected Areas Network
NI Tourism Alliance
National Museums NI
Public Records Office NI
QUB (Schools of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics (HAPP) and Natural and Built Environment (NBE))
Royal Society of Ulster Architects/ Royal Institution of British Architects
Royal Town Planning Institute
Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings Ireland
Tourism NI
Ulster Architectural Heritage
Ulster University
The Group met on the following dates:
| 2019 | 2020 | 2021 |
| 29 January | 3 March | 21 January |
| 30 April | 22 June | 2 March |
| 3 September | 10 August | 13 May |
| 3 December | 27 August | 29 June |
| 30 September | 23 August | |
| 20 November | ||
| The 22 June 2020 and all subsequent meetings have been held virtually |
I granted the delivery partners of the Women Involved in Community Transformation programme a six month contract extension to 30 September 2021 in order to enable existing women on the programme to complete their training. In addition, this extension was also to enable a truncated programme to be delivered to women who were on a waiting list.
The delivery partners have advised that training of all participants will be completed by this date.
I can also confirm that an ‘open call’ process for the new Developing Women in the Community programme was launched on 14 September.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022264%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349497","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349497"}},{"id":"349496","reference":"AQW 22263/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-13","answerBy":"2021-09-28","answered":"2021-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities why the Women Involved in Community Transformation programme contract has not been re-tendered or changed to a grant aided programme.","answerText":"An ‘open call’ process launched on 14 September 2021 for a new grant-funded ‘Developing Women in the Community’ programme. This new programme aims to provide women with the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to become influencers and take on roles such as leadership and decision making in their communities.","answerHtml":"An ‘open call’ process launched on 14 September 2021 for a new grant-funded ‘Developing Women in the Community’ programme. This new programme aims to provide women with the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to become influencers and take on roles such as leadership and decision making in their communities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022263%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349496","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349496"}},{"id":"349495","reference":"AQW 22262/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-13","answerBy":"2021-09-28","answered":"2021-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, given funding for the Women Involved in Community Transformation programme ceases at the end of September 2021, what plans her Department has to provide support for women.","answerText":"I can confirm that a new ‘Developing Women in the Community’ programme was launched on 14 September 2021.\n\nIt will target women of all ages and will be delivered within the community, in areas which have been identified as areas in need.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that a new ‘Developing Women in the Community’ programme was launched on 14 September 2021.
It will target women of all ages and will be delivered within the community, in areas which have been identified as areas in need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022262%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349495","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349495"}},{"id":"349364","reference":"AQW 22177/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-10","answerBy":"2021-09-27","answered":"2021-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what his Department is doing to make Stormont Estate ‘smoke free’.","answerText":"Since 1 January 2005, Civil Service policy has prohibited smoking in all Departmental premises. The prohibition has since been extended to the use of e-cigarettes. This applies to all buildings, including entrance and exit areas, on the Stormont Estate.\n\nWith regard particularly to the Stormont Estate, smoking is not permitted within the Mo Mowlam playpark.","answerHtml":"Since 1 January 2005, Civil Service policy has prohibited smoking in all Departmental premises. The prohibition has since been extended to the use of e-cigarettes. This applies to all buildings, including entrance and exit areas, on the Stormont Estate.
With regard particularly to the Stormont Estate, smoking is not permitted within the Mo Mowlam playpark.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022177%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349364","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349364"}},{"id":"349363","reference":"AQW 22176/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-10","answerBy":"2021-09-27","answered":"2021-09-27","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 confirm how many weeks the Northern Ireland Environment Agency has taken to provide a statutory consultee response to planning applications for (i) 2019; (ii) 2020 and (iii) 2021 to date, broken down by council area.","answerText":"Most responses made by the Department to planning application consultations are a single collated response covering all relevant Departmental divisions rather than individual responses from each division. As such response rates are reported at a Departmental level.\n\nThe table below provides the average number of weeks the Agency has taken to provide a statutory consultee response to planning applications for the reporting periods: 1 April 2018 to 31 March 2019; 1 April 2019 to 31 March 2020 and 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021 broken down by Council area.\n\nThe response rate for 1 April 2021 to 31 August 2021 has also been provided.\n\nCouncil\t2018/19\nAverage Number of Weeks\t2019/20\nAverage Number of Weeks\t2020/21\nAverage Number of Weeks\t01/04/2021-31/08/2021\nAverage Number of Weeks\nCauseway Coast & Glens\t2.5\t3.6\t3.7\t1.6\nMid & East Antrim\t3.6\t5.6\t5.5\t2.4\nAntrim & Newtownabbey\t3.3\t4.0\t5.8\t2.1\nBelfast\t2.2\t2.9\t5.4\t2.1\nLisburn & Castlereagh\t1.8\t2.2\t2.9\t1.1\nArds & North Down\t2.6\t3.6\t3.8\t1.7\nNewry, Mourne & Down\t3.6\t3.5\t5.7\t2.0\nArmagh, Banbridge, Craigavon\t3.3\t3.3\t4.6\t1.9\nMid Ulster\t4.3\t5.0\t6.0\t2.3\nFermanagh & Omagh\t4.5\t5.8\t7.2\t1.9\nDerry & Strabane\t3.7\t4.8\t6.1\t2.2","answerHtml":"Most responses made by the Department to planning application consultations are a single collated response covering all relevant Departmental divisions rather than individual responses from each division. As such response rates are reported at a Departmental level.
The table below provides the average number of weeks the Agency has taken to provide a statutory consultee response to planning applications for the reporting periods: 1 April 2018 to 31 March 2019; 1 April 2019 to 31 March 2020 and 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021 broken down by Council area.
The response rate for 1 April 2021 to 31 August 2021 has also been provided.
| Council | 2018/19 Average Number of Weeks | 2019/20 Average Number of Weeks | 2020/21 Average Number of Weeks | 01/04/2021-31/08/2021 Average Number of Weeks |
| Causeway Coast & Glens | 2.5 | 3.6 | 3.7 | 1.6 |
| Mid & East Antrim | 3.6 | 5.6 | 5.5 | 2.4 |
| Antrim & Newtownabbey | 3.3 | 4.0 | 5.8 | 2.1 |
| Belfast | 2.2 | 2.9 | 5.4 | 2.1 |
| Lisburn & Castlereagh | 1.8 | 2.2 | 2.9 | 1.1 |
| Ards & North Down | 2.6 | 3.6 | 3.8 | 1.7 |
| Newry, Mourne & Down | 3.6 | 3.5 | 5.7 | 2.0 |
| Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon | 3.3 | 3.3 | 4.6 | 1.9 |
| Mid Ulster | 4.3 | 5.0 | 6.0 | 2.3 |
| Fermanagh & Omagh | 4.5 | 5.8 | 7.2 | 1.9 |
| Derry & Strabane | 3.7 | 4.8 | 6.1 | 2.2 |
The numbers of badgers reported, numbers tested, and the numbers of those tested which were positive, in each of the five years requested, are provided below. These figures are subdivided by year and by Divisional Veterinary Office area. Summary figures have also been provided (Annex A)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022175%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349362","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349362"}},{"id":"349361","reference":"AQW 22174/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-10","answerBy":"2021-09-27","answered":"2021-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many people in receipt of benefits or state pension, who have not registered a bank account with her Department, still rely on a Post Office Card Account.","answerText":"As of 31 August 2021, the Department for Communities had c34k customers using the Post Office card account (POca) to receive their benefit and pension payments.","answerHtml":"As of 31 August 2021, the Department for Communities had c34k customers using the Post Office card account (POca) to receive their benefit and pension payments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022174%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349361","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349361"}},{"id":"349360","reference":"AQW 22173/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-10","answerBy":"2021-09-27","answered":"2021-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether her Department is reviewing the allocations made through the cold weather payment to take account of the rising cost of home heating.","answerText":"The Cold Weather Payment is triggered by a prolonged period of severe weather, i.e. average temperature of 0oC or below over seven consecutive days.\n\nThe Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that there are no plans to change the payment or eligibility criteria for the Cold Weather Payment scheme.\n\nHowever, I have asked officials to consider if there are any actions that my Department can take to help mitigate against the impact of rising fuel costs.","answerHtml":"The Cold Weather Payment is triggered by a prolonged period of severe weather, i.e. average temperature of 0oC or below over seven consecutive days.
The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that there are no plans to change the payment or eligibility criteria for the Cold Weather Payment scheme.
However, I have asked officials to consider if there are any actions that my Department can take to help mitigate against the impact of rising fuel costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022173%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349360","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349360"}},{"id":"349216","reference":"AQW 22094/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-09","answerBy":"2021-09-14","answered":"2021-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the review of welfare mitigations; and when the public consultation will be released.","answerText":"My Department has finalised proposals for the completion of the review of welfare mitigation measures. I can confirm that the review will be completed by an independent panel that will be tasked with making recommendations.\n\nI will make an announcement on the format of the review, including engagement with stakeholders, in the coming weeks.","answerHtml":"My Department has finalised proposals for the completion of the review of welfare mitigation measures. I can confirm that the review will be completed by an independent panel that will be tasked with making recommendations.
I will make an announcement on the format of the review, including engagement with stakeholders, in the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022094%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349216","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349216"}},{"id":"349215","reference":"AQW 22093/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-09","answerBy":"2021-09-24","answered":"2021-09-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health why the Any Qualified Provider scheme, to outsource tests and hearing aid fitting to external suppliers, has not been adopted.","answerText":"The Any Qualified Provider (AQP) scheme is a Department of Health and Social Care, England, initiative and has not been adopted in Northern Ireland given that the standard of testing and the hearing aids supplied under the AQP scheme are not compliant with the NI Adult Audiology Quality Standards. Our Quality Standards are the same as those used in Scotland and Wales.\n\nThe AQP scheme has also been found not to be as cost effective as initially thought due to a high return of audiology patients with complex needs to the health service for ongoing treatment and care.","answerHtml":"The Any Qualified Provider (AQP) scheme is a Department of Health and Social Care, England, initiative and has not been adopted in Northern Ireland given that the standard of testing and the hearing aids supplied under the AQP scheme are not compliant with the NI Adult Audiology Quality Standards. Our Quality Standards are the same as those used in Scotland and Wales.
The AQP scheme has also been found not to be as cost effective as initially thought due to a high return of audiology patients with complex needs to the health service for ongoing treatment and care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022093%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349215","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349215"}},{"id":"349214","reference":"AQW 22092/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-09","answerBy":"2021-09-24","answered":"2021-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to provide a copy of each Health and Social Care Trust's service delivery plans from July 2021, August 2021 and from September 2021 to show how efforts to stabilise and rebuild all Health and Social Care services will be delivered.","answerText":"HSC delivery plans for July and August 2021 have been published and are available on my Department’s website at the following link: Rebuilding Health and Social Care Services | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk).\n\nGiven the move to develop combined winter and surge delivery plans over the autumn/winter period, I asked the HSC Trust to provide activity projections only for the September 2021 period. These projections can also be found on the website.\n\nI have commissioned narrative plans and activity projections, as usual, for the period October – December 2021 and these plans will be published on the website in due course.","answerHtml":"HSC delivery plans for July and August 2021 have been published and are available on my Department’s website at the following link: Rebuilding Health and Social Care Services | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk).
Given the move to develop combined winter and surge delivery plans over the autumn/winter period, I asked the HSC Trust to provide activity projections only for the September 2021 period. These projections can also be found on the website.
I have commissioned narrative plans and activity projections, as usual, for the period October – December 2021 and these plans will be published on the website in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022092%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349214","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349214"}},{"id":"349213","reference":"AQW 22091/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-09","answerBy":"2021-09-24","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions her Department is taking to review Covid grant payments made through Sport NI, Arts Council, National Lottery Heritage Fund and Cooperation Ireland to ensure all funds met the funding criteria.","answerText":"The Department’s Accounting Officer is responsible for regularity, propriety and value for money.\n\nThese will be considered by the appropriate professional audit organisations.","answerHtml":"The Department’s Accounting Officer is responsible for regularity, propriety and value for money.
These will be considered by the appropriate professional audit organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022091%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349213","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349213"}},{"id":"349212","reference":"AQW 22090/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-09","answerBy":"2021-09-24","answered":"2021-09-28","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 (i) to outline why the Rural College site in Draperstown is sitting unused; and (ii) how much departmental money is used to fund the upkeep of this facility.","answerText":"The buildings you refer to at Derrynoid forest near Draperstown are the subject of a 99 year lease with Workspace Ltd which commenced in 1995. Under this lease the buildings were in use as a Rural College until its closure in 2011.\n\nThe buildings have been vacant since 2011, and from then Workspace has explored numerous options to secure a future use for the buildings. Despite their best efforts, to date this has proved to be unsuccessful.\n\nWhile the current lease with Workspace Ltd remains in place, they continue to have full responsibility, in line with the lease obligations, for all ongoing costs associated with the buildings.","answerHtml":"The buildings you refer to at Derrynoid forest near Draperstown are the subject of a 99 year lease with Workspace Ltd which commenced in 1995. Under this lease the buildings were in use as a Rural College until its closure in 2011.
The buildings have been vacant since 2011, and from then Workspace has explored numerous options to secure a future use for the buildings. Despite their best efforts, to date this has proved to be unsuccessful.
While the current lease with Workspace Ltd remains in place, they continue to have full responsibility, in line with the lease obligations, for all ongoing costs associated with the buildings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022090%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349212","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349212"}},{"id":"349122","reference":"AQW 22013/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-08","answerBy":"2021-09-16","answered":"2021-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions her Department is taking to make claimants aware that they will have a reduction in payment following the end of the £20 per week Covid uplift; and what support is she putting in place to counter the negative impact this will have on vulnerable people and children still being impacted by the long-term effects of Covid, such as increased cost of living.","answerText":"Throughout my time in office I have repeatedly demonstrated my determination to protect the most vulnerable people in our society and to targeting resources to those most in need.\n\nI have continuously expressed my grave concern that the £20 uplift in Universal Credit is being withdrawn, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. If the uplift is not extended after 5 October 2021, I will include it as part of the planned review of welfare mitigations measures.\n\nTo ensure people on Universal Credit are given as much advance notice as possible about this change, monthly reminder messages have been sent to each person’s individual journal account from July. The last journal message will be delivered between 8 and 17 September and this will give the date for each individual’s final £20 uplift payment.\n\nThese journal messages also provide details of independent organisations who can help with debt and money advice for anyone who is anxious or worried about this change. Further information is also provided to signpost people to the full range of existing support provided by the Department’s Make the Call service and the financial help that is available from the Adviser Discretionary Fund and Discretionary Support service.\n\nMy Department’s Debt Management team will also be available to discuss repayment options with anyone who may experience difficulty making repayments to the Department.","answerHtml":"Throughout my time in office I have repeatedly demonstrated my determination to protect the most vulnerable people in our society and to targeting resources to those most in need.
I have continuously expressed my grave concern that the £20 uplift in Universal Credit is being withdrawn, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. If the uplift is not extended after 5 October 2021, I will include it as part of the planned review of welfare mitigations measures.
To ensure people on Universal Credit are given as much advance notice as possible about this change, monthly reminder messages have been sent to each person’s individual journal account from July. The last journal message will be delivered between 8 and 17 September and this will give the date for each individual’s final £20 uplift payment.
These journal messages also provide details of independent organisations who can help with debt and money advice for anyone who is anxious or worried about this change. Further information is also provided to signpost people to the full range of existing support provided by the Department’s Make the Call service and the financial help that is available from the Adviser Discretionary Fund and Discretionary Support service.
My Department’s Debt Management team will also be available to discuss repayment options with anyone who may experience difficulty making repayments to the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022013%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349122"}},{"id":"349121","reference":"AQW 22012/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-08","answerBy":"2021-09-23","answered":"2021-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide details of any (i) work that has been completed by her Department to review the cost of school uniforms; and (ii) whether she has any plans to require the Education Authority and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools to introduce a price cap on school uniforms.","answerText":"School uniform policies in Northern Ireland are a matter for individual schools to determine in association with guidance from the Department of Education.\n\nIn June 2018 the Department reissued guidance to all schools reminding them of the importance of keeping the costs of school uniforms to a minimum. The guidance advises schools to ensure that items are available ‘off the peg’ from a number of retail outlets so that the school uniform does not become a barrier for children from low income families attending the school. The guidance is available at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201104-guidance-schools-school-uniform-policy-revised-5-june-2018.\n\nThe Education Authority administers the payment of school uniform grants to support low income families with children in primary, post primary and special schools. The school uniform grant is not intended to cover the full cost of a uniform, rather it is designed to assist those in need with the cost of purchase.\n\nPreparatory work has begun within the Department on a review of the free school meals (FSM) and uniform grant eligibility criteria. The purpose of this review to ensure that FSM and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society and the review will consider the current rates of uniform grant as a contribution to the cost of school uniforms. The review will consider options to extend the FSM and uniform grant criteria and the rate of uniform grant.\n\nI am also aware of recent legislation that was introduced in England which included a price cap on Uniforms. We will consider this legislation and the potential to introduce similar legislation here, as part of the review.","answerHtml":"School uniform policies in Northern Ireland are a matter for individual schools to determine in association with guidance from the Department of Education.
In June 2018 the Department reissued guidance to all schools reminding them of the importance of keeping the costs of school uniforms to a minimum. The guidance advises schools to ensure that items are available ‘off the peg’ from a number of retail outlets so that the school uniform does not become a barrier for children from low income families attending the school. The guidance is available at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201104-guidance-schools-school-uniform-policy-revised-5-june-2018.
The Education Authority administers the payment of school uniform grants to support low income families with children in primary, post primary and special schools. The school uniform grant is not intended to cover the full cost of a uniform, rather it is designed to assist those in need with the cost of purchase.
Preparatory work has begun within the Department on a review of the free school meals (FSM) and uniform grant eligibility criteria. The purpose of this review to ensure that FSM and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society and the review will consider the current rates of uniform grant as a contribution to the cost of school uniforms. The review will consider options to extend the FSM and uniform grant criteria and the rate of uniform grant.
I am also aware of recent legislation that was introduced in England which included a price cap on Uniforms. We will consider this legislation and the potential to introduce similar legislation here, as part of the review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022012%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349121"}},{"id":"349120","reference":"AQW 22011/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-08","answerBy":"2021-09-23","answered":"2021-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether she has any plans to introduce a cap on the cost of school uniforms to ensure all schools have created a uniform where the Uniform Grant can be used to meet at least 80% of the cost.","answerText":"School uniform policies in Northern Ireland are a matter for individual schools to determine in association with guidance from the Department of Education.\n\nIn June 2018 the Department reissued guidance to all schools reminding them of the importance of keeping the costs of school uniforms to a minimum. The guidance advises schools to ensure that items are available ‘off the peg’ from a number of retail outlets so that the school uniform does not become a barrier for children from low income families attending the school. The guidance is available at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201104-guidance-schools-school-uniform-policy-revised-5-june-2018.\n\nThe Education Authority administers the payment of school uniform grants to support low income families with children in primary, post primary and special schools. The school uniform grant is not intended to cover the full cost of a uniform, rather it is designed to assist those in need with the cost of purchase.\n\nPreparatory work has begun within the Department on a review of the free school meals (FSM) and uniform grant eligibility criteria. The purpose of this review to ensure that FSM and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society and the review will consider the current rates of uniform grant as a contribution to the cost of school uniforms. The review will consider options to extend the FSM and uniform grant criteria and the rate of uniform grant.\n\nI am also aware of recent legislation that was introduced in England which included a price cap on Uniforms. We will consider this legislation and the potential to introduce similar legislation here, as part of the review.","answerHtml":"School uniform policies in Northern Ireland are a matter for individual schools to determine in association with guidance from the Department of Education.
In June 2018 the Department reissued guidance to all schools reminding them of the importance of keeping the costs of school uniforms to a minimum. The guidance advises schools to ensure that items are available ‘off the peg’ from a number of retail outlets so that the school uniform does not become a barrier for children from low income families attending the school. The guidance is available at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201104-guidance-schools-school-uniform-policy-revised-5-june-2018.
The Education Authority administers the payment of school uniform grants to support low income families with children in primary, post primary and special schools. The school uniform grant is not intended to cover the full cost of a uniform, rather it is designed to assist those in need with the cost of purchase.
Preparatory work has begun within the Department on a review of the free school meals (FSM) and uniform grant eligibility criteria. The purpose of this review to ensure that FSM and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society and the review will consider the current rates of uniform grant as a contribution to the cost of school uniforms. The review will consider options to extend the FSM and uniform grant criteria and the rate of uniform grant.
I am also aware of recent legislation that was introduced in England which included a price cap on Uniforms. We will consider this legislation and the potential to introduce similar legislation here, as part of the review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022011%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349120"}},{"id":"349119","reference":"AQW 22010/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-08","answerBy":"2021-09-23","answered":"2021-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, given the increasing price of branded PE kits being used by schools, whether she has any plans to review the Uniform Grant allocations to make uniforms affordable for families in receipt of benefits.","answerText":"School uniform policies in Northern Ireland are a matter for individual schools to determine in association with guidance from the Department of Education.\n\nIn June 2018 the Department reissued guidance to all schools reminding them of the importance of keeping the costs of school uniforms to a minimum. The guidance advises schools to ensure that items are available ‘off the peg’ from a number of retail outlets so that the school uniform does not become a barrier for children from low income families attending the school. The guidance is available at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201104-guidance-schools-school-uniform-policy-revised-5-june-2018.\n\nThe Education Authority administers the payment of school uniform grants to support low income families with children in primary, post primary and special schools. The school uniform grant is not intended to cover the full cost of a uniform, rather it is designed to assist those in need with the cost of purchase.\n\nPreparatory work has begun within the Department on a review of the free school meals (FSM) and uniform grant eligibility criteria. The purpose of this review to ensure that FSM and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society and the review will consider the current rates of uniform grant as a contribution to the cost of school uniforms. The review will consider options to extend the FSM and uniform grant criteria and the rate of uniform grant.\n\nI am also aware of recent legislation that was introduced in England which included a price cap on Uniforms. We will consider this legislation and the potential to introduce similar legislation here, as part of the review.","answerHtml":"School uniform policies in Northern Ireland are a matter for individual schools to determine in association with guidance from the Department of Education.
In June 2018 the Department reissued guidance to all schools reminding them of the importance of keeping the costs of school uniforms to a minimum. The guidance advises schools to ensure that items are available ‘off the peg’ from a number of retail outlets so that the school uniform does not become a barrier for children from low income families attending the school. The guidance is available at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201104-guidance-schools-school-uniform-policy-revised-5-june-2018.
The Education Authority administers the payment of school uniform grants to support low income families with children in primary, post primary and special schools. The school uniform grant is not intended to cover the full cost of a uniform, rather it is designed to assist those in need with the cost of purchase.
Preparatory work has begun within the Department on a review of the free school meals (FSM) and uniform grant eligibility criteria. The purpose of this review to ensure that FSM and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society and the review will consider the current rates of uniform grant as a contribution to the cost of school uniforms. The review will consider options to extend the FSM and uniform grant criteria and the rate of uniform grant.
I am also aware of recent legislation that was introduced in England which included a price cap on Uniforms. We will consider this legislation and the potential to introduce similar legislation here, as part of the review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022010%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349119","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349119"}},{"id":"349118","reference":"AQW 22009/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-08","answerBy":"2021-09-23","answered":"2021-09-16","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 reform of the Housing Executive; and when options on reform will be provided for consideration.","answerText":"My officials are working in partnership with colleagues in the Housing Executive to undertake the work required in order to bring a recommendation to the Executive by March 2022.","answerHtml":"My officials are working in partnership with colleagues in the Housing Executive to undertake the work required in order to bring a recommendation to the Executive by March 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022009%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349118","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349118"}},{"id":"348981","reference":"AQW 21913/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-07","answerBy":"2021-09-15","answered":"2021-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on her discussions with the Department for Work and Pensions on the retention of the £20 per week Covid uplift to benefits; and what action she is taking to mitigate against this loss of financial support for claimants from the end September 2021.","answerText":"Throughout my time in office I have repeatedly demonstrated my determination to protect the most vulnerable people in our society and to targeting resources to those most in need.\n\nIn my letter to Thérèse Coffey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on 26 July I expressed my grave concern that the £20 uplift in Universal Credit is being withdrawn, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.\n\nI have written again on 30 August to Thérèse Coffey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in a joint letter with the Scottish and Welsh Ministers to seek the continuation of the £20 uplift to Universal Credit. This is similar to a joint letter that was issued on 12 November 2020.\n\nIf the uplift is not extended after 5 October 2021, I will include it as part of the planned review of welfare mitigations measures.","answerHtml":"Throughout my time in office I have repeatedly demonstrated my determination to protect the most vulnerable people in our society and to targeting resources to those most in need.
In my letter to Thérèse Coffey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on 26 July I expressed my grave concern that the £20 uplift in Universal Credit is being withdrawn, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.
I have written again on 30 August to Thérèse Coffey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in a joint letter with the Scottish and Welsh Ministers to seek the continuation of the £20 uplift to Universal Credit. This is similar to a joint letter that was issued on 12 November 2020.
If the uplift is not extended after 5 October 2021, I will include it as part of the planned review of welfare mitigations measures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021913%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348981","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348981"}},{"id":"348980","reference":"AQW 21912/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-07","answerBy":"2021-09-22","answered":"2021-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 21331/17-22, to outline (i) why the answer was not forwarded directly by email to the Member,until 27 July 2021; and (ii) why was there a 13-day delay from the date the letter was signed by the Minister before it was sent to the Member.","answerText":"My Private Office routinely insert the date that an Assembly Question is due for answer in the official written response, rather than the date I sign a response.","answerHtml":"My Private Office routinely insert the date that an Assembly Question is due for answer in the official written response, rather than the date I sign a response.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021912%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348980","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348980"}},{"id":"348979","reference":"AQW 21911/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-07","answerBy":"2021-09-22","answered":"2021-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 21331/17-22, for a copy of the minutes of meetings between her Department and the Education Authority confirming the actions that are being discussed to ensure land managed by her Department and the Education Authority are not used for bonfires or other illegal activity.","answerText":"No meetings have taken place to date between the Department and the Education Authority to discuss this subject matter, therefore no minutes are available.","answerHtml":"No meetings have taken place to date between the Department and the Education Authority to discuss this subject matter, therefore no minutes are available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021911%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348979","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348979"}},{"id":"348978","reference":"AQW 21910/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-07","answerBy":"2021-09-22","answered":"2021-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities given the increase in housing prices, whether she is planning to review the limits for Co-Ownership.","answerText":"The Property Value Limit (PVL) for Co Ownership housing is reviewed annually by my Department and set accordingly. This represents the maximum market value of the property which can be purchased through the Co-Ownership scheme. The annual review of the PVL is currently underway, and if it is to be changed a revised PVL will be published in autumn 2021.","answerHtml":"The Property Value Limit (PVL) for Co Ownership housing is reviewed annually by my Department and set accordingly. This represents the maximum market value of the property which can be purchased through the Co-Ownership scheme. The annual review of the PVL is currently underway, and if it is to be changed a revised PVL will be published in autumn 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021910%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348978","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348978"}},{"id":"348977","reference":"AQW 21909/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-07","answerBy":"2021-09-22","answered":"2021-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 21847/17-22, how and when the £5 million will be allocated to charities and social enterprises.","answerText":"Engagement has been ongoing with key stakeholders to explore options going forward. Departmental Officials are currently drafting options based on this engagement and I hope to be in a position shortly to announce proposals to make the most effective use of the £5 million allocated by the Executive.","answerHtml":"Engagement has been ongoing with key stakeholders to explore options going forward. Departmental Officials are currently drafting options based on this engagement and I hope to be in a position shortly to announce proposals to make the most effective use of the £5 million allocated by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021909%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348977"}},{"id":"347345","reference":"AQW 21824/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-20","answerBy":"2021-08-04","answered":"2021-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when she anticipates the Independent Review of Education report will be implemented.","answerText":"The recruitment process to appoint the independent panel is nearing its completion and work on the review will commence shortly thereafter.\n\nThe terms of reference for the review, agreed by the Executive, set out the need for a final report to be provided to my Department within 18 months of the review commencing. The agreed terms of reference also make provision for a short extension to the timeframes should it be required and, conversely, allow for early submission of the report should the panel complete its work sooner than expected.\n\nFollowing consideration of the final report, I would expect that an implementation plan will be prepared for Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"The recruitment process to appoint the independent panel is nearing its completion and work on the review will commence shortly thereafter.
The terms of reference for the review, agreed by the Executive, set out the need for a final report to be provided to my Department within 18 months of the review commencing. The agreed terms of reference also make provision for a short extension to the timeframes should it be required and, conversely, allow for early submission of the report should the panel complete its work sooner than expected.
Following consideration of the final report, I would expect that an implementation plan will be prepared for Executive agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021824%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=347345","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=347345"}},{"id":"347344","reference":"AQW 21823/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-20","answerBy":"2021-08-04","answered":"2021-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when will the Independent Review of Education panel begin stakeholder engagement.","answerText":"The recruitment process to appoint the independent panel is nearing its completion and work on the review will commence shortly thereafter.\n\nIt will be for the appointed Chairperson and panel to determine its own workplan and agree a suitable approach to stakeholder engagement. The terms of reference for the review make clear that the work should be delivered in a collaborative manner with significant stakeholder engagement. The panel is expected to engage with a wide range of relevant groups, organisations and individuals in order to provide opportunity for issues to be raised, opinions heard and evidence presented. I would therefore expect stakeholder engagement to be a key priority for the panel once work commences.","answerHtml":"The recruitment process to appoint the independent panel is nearing its completion and work on the review will commence shortly thereafter.
It will be for the appointed Chairperson and panel to determine its own workplan and agree a suitable approach to stakeholder engagement. The terms of reference for the review make clear that the work should be delivered in a collaborative manner with significant stakeholder engagement. The panel is expected to engage with a wide range of relevant groups, organisations and individuals in order to provide opportunity for issues to be raised, opinions heard and evidence presented. I would therefore expect stakeholder engagement to be a key priority for the panel once work commences.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021823%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=347344","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=347344"}},{"id":"347343","reference":"AQW 21822/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-20","answerBy":"2021-08-04","answered":"2021-07-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the process used by the Education Authority to communicate to parents and the community regarding the closure of maintained, controlled, Irish-medium and integrated schools.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) are statutory planning authorities responsible for the planning of education provision. Within established Area Planning structures they engage with sectoral body representatives who contribute to the planning process in a number of ways, including through provision of information, analysis and advice on proposals impacting on their schools.\n\nThe requirement to engage with a range of stakeholders as proposals are developed is set out in legislation (the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1986) and in the Department’s area planning guidance accessible at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/revised-area-planning-guidance-27-september-2016.pdf\n\nGuidance on publication of Development Proposals (DPs) is accessible at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/ED1%2018%20185059%20%20WEB%20VERSION%20DP%20Guidance%20updated%2014%20September%202018%20-%20Withdrawal%20of%20DPS%20Clarification%20on%20Proposers_0.pdf\n\nAny significant change to provision requires publication of a DP. The DP process can be separated into four main phases:\n\nidentification of need in the Area Planning process;\n\npre-publication consultation;\n\npublication of a DP; and\n\nstatutory objection period leading to a decision by the Department.\n\nThe Department’s guidance makes specific reference to engagement and consultation with parents and regards it as good practice that consultation should be as widespread as possible and that the views of local people should be sought while planning is still at a formative stage to inform the identification and consideration of options for provision.\n\nThe pre-publication consultation phase is the point at which much of this engagement takes place, but where a DP is subsequently published there is further opportunity for any party with an interest in a proposal to make representation to the Department either in support of, or by way of objection to, a proposal during the two-month statutory objection period. Details of existing planning considerations at pre-publication stage can be viewed on the EA website at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.eani.org.uk/school-management/area-planning/pre-publication-consultations\n\nWhere I take a decision to approve the proposed discontinuance of any school, my officials initially remit detail of that decision to the proposer of the DP and to the EA to allow them to begin the process of managing the discontinuance. My decision and the evidence I have considered in taking it are also published in full to the Department’s website.\n\nIt is not possible to be precise about the process used by the EA to communicate a discontinuance decision given the range of issues that may have to be addressed (such as, but not confined to, application of transport policy or arrangements for children or pupils with Special Educational Needs SEN), but these will typically have been considered in the Case for Change (CfC), with an implementation plan identified to manage the discontinuance process through multi-disciplinary teams working with the school.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) are statutory planning authorities responsible for the planning of education provision. Within established Area Planning structures they engage with sectoral body representatives who contribute to the planning process in a number of ways, including through provision of information, analysis and advice on proposals impacting on their schools.
The requirement to engage with a range of stakeholders as proposals are developed is set out in legislation (the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1986) and in the Department’s area planning guidance accessible at the following link:
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/revised-area-planning-guidance-27-september-2016.pdf
Guidance on publication of Development Proposals (DPs) is accessible at the following link:
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/ED1%2018%20185059%20%20WEB%20VERSION%20DP%20Guidance%20updated%2014%20September%202018%20-%20Withdrawal%20of%20DPS%20Clarification%20on%20Proposers_0.pdf
Any significant change to provision requires publication of a DP. The DP process can be separated into four main phases:
identification of need in the Area Planning process;
pre-publication consultation;
publication of a DP; and
statutory objection period leading to a decision by the Department.
The Department’s guidance makes specific reference to engagement and consultation with parents and regards it as good practice that consultation should be as widespread as possible and that the views of local people should be sought while planning is still at a formative stage to inform the identification and consideration of options for provision.
The pre-publication consultation phase is the point at which much of this engagement takes place, but where a DP is subsequently published there is further opportunity for any party with an interest in a proposal to make representation to the Department either in support of, or by way of objection to, a proposal during the two-month statutory objection period. Details of existing planning considerations at pre-publication stage can be viewed on the EA website at the following link:
https://www.eani.org.uk/school-management/area-planning/pre-publication-consultations
Where I take a decision to approve the proposed discontinuance of any school, my officials initially remit detail of that decision to the proposer of the DP and to the EA to allow them to begin the process of managing the discontinuance. My decision and the evidence I have considered in taking it are also published in full to the Department’s website.
It is not possible to be precise about the process used by the EA to communicate a discontinuance decision given the range of issues that may have to be addressed (such as, but not confined to, application of transport policy or arrangements for children or pupils with Special Educational Needs SEN), but these will typically have been considered in the Case for Change (CfC), with an implementation plan identified to manage the discontinuance process through multi-disciplinary teams working with the school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021822%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=347343","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=347343"}},{"id":"347342","reference":"AQW 21821/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-20","answerBy":"2021-08-04","answered":"2021-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how many projects the Education Authority and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools are working on jointly to bring communities together to address area planning issues.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) are statutory planning authorities responsible for the planning of education provision. Within established Area Planning structures they engage with sectoral body representatives who contribute to the planning process in a number of ways, including through provision of information, analysis and advice on proposals impacting on their schools.\n\nThe requirement to engage with a range of stakeholders as proposals are developed is set out in legislation (the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1986) and in the Department’s area planning guidance accessible at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/revised-area-planning-guidance-27-september-2016.pdf\n\nGuidance on publication of Development Proposals (DPs) is accessible at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/ED1%2018%20185059%20%20WEB%20VERSION%20DP%20Guidance%20updated%2014%20September%202018%20-%20Withdrawal%20of%20DPS%20Clarification%20on%20Proposers_0.pdf\n\nAny significant change to provision requires publication of a DP. The DP process can be separated into four main phases:\n\nidentification of need in the Area Planning process;\n\npre-publication consultation;\n\npublication of a DP; and\n\nstatutory objection period leading to a decision by the Department.\n\nThe Department’s guidance makes specific reference to engagement and consultation with parents and regards it as good practice that consultation should be as widespread as possible and that the views of local people should be sought while planning is still at a formative stage to inform the identification and consideration of options for provision.\n\nThe pre-publication consultation phase is the point at which much of this engagement takes place, but where a DP is subsequently published there is further opportunity for any party with an interest in a proposal to make representation to the Department either in support of, or by way of objection to, a proposal during the two-month statutory objection period. Details of existing planning considerations at pre-publication stage can be viewed on the EA website at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.eani.org.uk/school-management/area-planning/pre-publication-consultations\n\nWhere I take a decision to approve the proposed discontinuance of any school, my officials initially remit detail of that decision to the proposer of the DP and to the EA to allow them to begin the process of managing the discontinuance. My decision and the evidence I have considered in taking it are also published in full to the Department’s website.\n\nIt is not possible to be precise about the process used by the EA to communicate a discontinuance decision given the range of issues that may have to be addressed (such as, but not confined to, application of transport policy or arrangements for children or pupils with Special Educational Needs SEN), but these will typically have been considered in the Case for Change (CfC), with an implementation plan identified to manage the discontinuance process through multi-disciplinary teams working with the school.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) are statutory planning authorities responsible for the planning of education provision. Within established Area Planning structures they engage with sectoral body representatives who contribute to the planning process in a number of ways, including through provision of information, analysis and advice on proposals impacting on their schools.
The requirement to engage with a range of stakeholders as proposals are developed is set out in legislation (the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1986) and in the Department’s area planning guidance accessible at the following link:
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/revised-area-planning-guidance-27-september-2016.pdf
Guidance on publication of Development Proposals (DPs) is accessible at the following link:
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/ED1%2018%20185059%20%20WEB%20VERSION%20DP%20Guidance%20updated%2014%20September%202018%20-%20Withdrawal%20of%20DPS%20Clarification%20on%20Proposers_0.pdf
Any significant change to provision requires publication of a DP. The DP process can be separated into four main phases:
identification of need in the Area Planning process;
pre-publication consultation;
publication of a DP; and
statutory objection period leading to a decision by the Department.
The Department’s guidance makes specific reference to engagement and consultation with parents and regards it as good practice that consultation should be as widespread as possible and that the views of local people should be sought while planning is still at a formative stage to inform the identification and consideration of options for provision.
The pre-publication consultation phase is the point at which much of this engagement takes place, but where a DP is subsequently published there is further opportunity for any party with an interest in a proposal to make representation to the Department either in support of, or by way of objection to, a proposal during the two-month statutory objection period. Details of existing planning considerations at pre-publication stage can be viewed on the EA website at the following link:
https://www.eani.org.uk/school-management/area-planning/pre-publication-consultations
Where I take a decision to approve the proposed discontinuance of any school, my officials initially remit detail of that decision to the proposer of the DP and to the EA to allow them to begin the process of managing the discontinuance. My decision and the evidence I have considered in taking it are also published in full to the Department’s website.
It is not possible to be precise about the process used by the EA to communicate a discontinuance decision given the range of issues that may have to be addressed (such as, but not confined to, application of transport policy or arrangements for children or pupils with Special Educational Needs SEN), but these will typically have been considered in the Case for Change (CfC), with an implementation plan identified to manage the discontinuance process through multi-disciplinary teams working with the school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021821%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=347342","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=347342"}},{"id":"347341","reference":"AQW 21820/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-20","answerBy":"2021-08-04","answered":"2021-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) whether she plans to address primary school duplication in rural areas; and (ii) at what stage in this process would the local community and parents in the area be involved.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) are statutory planning authorities responsible for the planning of education provision. Within established Area Planning structures they engage with sectoral body representatives who contribute to the planning process in a number of ways, including through provision of information, analysis and advice on proposals impacting on their schools.\n\nThe requirement to engage with a range of stakeholders as proposals are developed is set out in legislation (the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1986) and in the Department’s area planning guidance accessible at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/revised-area-planning-guidance-27-september-2016.pdf\n\nGuidance on publication of Development Proposals (DPs) is accessible at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/ED1%2018%20185059%20%20WEB%20VERSION%20DP%20Guidance%20updated%2014%20September%202018%20-%20Withdrawal%20of%20DPS%20Clarification%20on%20Proposers_0.pdf\n\nAny significant change to provision requires publication of a DP. The DP process can be separated into four main phases:\n\nidentification of need in the Area Planning process;\n\npre-publication consultation;\n\npublication of a DP; and\n\nstatutory objection period leading to a decision by the Department.\n\nThe Department’s guidance makes specific reference to engagement and consultation with parents and regards it as good practice that consultation should be as widespread as possible and that the views of local people should be sought while planning is still at a formative stage to inform the identification and consideration of options for provision.\n\nThe pre-publication consultation phase is the point at which much of this engagement takes place, but where a DP is subsequently published there is further opportunity for any party with an interest in a proposal to make representation to the Department either in support of, or by way of objection to, a proposal during the two-month statutory objection period. Details of existing planning considerations at pre-publication stage can be viewed on the EA website at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.eani.org.uk/school-management/area-planning/pre-publication-consultations\n\nWhere I take a decision to approve the proposed discontinuance of any school, my officials initially remit detail of that decision to the proposer of the DP and to the EA to allow them to begin the process of managing the discontinuance. My decision and the evidence I have considered in taking it are also published in full to the Department’s website.\n\nIt is not possible to be precise about the process used by the EA to communicate a discontinuance decision given the range of issues that may have to be addressed (such as, but not confined to, application of transport policy or arrangements for children or pupils with Special Educational Needs SEN), but these will typically have been considered in the Case for Change (CfC), with an implementation plan identified to manage the discontinuance process through multi-disciplinary teams working with the school.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) are statutory planning authorities responsible for the planning of education provision. Within established Area Planning structures they engage with sectoral body representatives who contribute to the planning process in a number of ways, including through provision of information, analysis and advice on proposals impacting on their schools.
The requirement to engage with a range of stakeholders as proposals are developed is set out in legislation (the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1986) and in the Department’s area planning guidance accessible at the following link:
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/revised-area-planning-guidance-27-september-2016.pdf
Guidance on publication of Development Proposals (DPs) is accessible at the following link:
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/ED1%2018%20185059%20%20WEB%20VERSION%20DP%20Guidance%20updated%2014%20September%202018%20-%20Withdrawal%20of%20DPS%20Clarification%20on%20Proposers_0.pdf
Any significant change to provision requires publication of a DP. The DP process can be separated into four main phases:
identification of need in the Area Planning process;
pre-publication consultation;
publication of a DP; and
statutory objection period leading to a decision by the Department.
The Department’s guidance makes specific reference to engagement and consultation with parents and regards it as good practice that consultation should be as widespread as possible and that the views of local people should be sought while planning is still at a formative stage to inform the identification and consideration of options for provision.
The pre-publication consultation phase is the point at which much of this engagement takes place, but where a DP is subsequently published there is further opportunity for any party with an interest in a proposal to make representation to the Department either in support of, or by way of objection to, a proposal during the two-month statutory objection period. Details of existing planning considerations at pre-publication stage can be viewed on the EA website at the following link:
https://www.eani.org.uk/school-management/area-planning/pre-publication-consultations
Where I take a decision to approve the proposed discontinuance of any school, my officials initially remit detail of that decision to the proposer of the DP and to the EA to allow them to begin the process of managing the discontinuance. My decision and the evidence I have considered in taking it are also published in full to the Department’s website.
It is not possible to be precise about the process used by the EA to communicate a discontinuance decision given the range of issues that may have to be addressed (such as, but not confined to, application of transport policy or arrangements for children or pupils with Special Educational Needs SEN), but these will typically have been considered in the Case for Change (CfC), with an implementation plan identified to manage the discontinuance process through multi-disciplinary teams working with the school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021820%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=347341","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=347341"}},{"id":"346251","reference":"AQW 21416/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-05","answerBy":"2021-07-08","answered":"2021-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will be issuing a public health message in advance of the 11 and 12 July activities to raise awareness of the need to social distance, wear masks and wash hands; and how the community can support Health Service and Fire and Rescue Service staff by celebrating at home rather than in crowds at bonfires or at parades.","answerText":"Whilst over the last number of months we have been able to make several relaxations to restrictions, it is important to note that social distancing remains an integral part of the measures we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones. We ask that people maintain social distancing as much as possible and avoid large gatherings as this will help slow the spread of Covid-19. Throughout the pandemic the message has been, and continues to be, to practise good hand hygiene, washing hands well and as often as possible. This remains key to slowing the spread of the virus.\n\nIn regards to the use of face coverings, these remain mandatory, unless exempt, whilst on public transport, private buses, taxis, aircrafts, in airports and in train and bus stations. They are also mandatory if you leave your table in a hospitality setting, in any retail setting or in any indoor public space.\n\nThe maximum numbers permitted to attend a gathering in venue other than a private dwelling is to be decided by the organisers on a risk assessed basis. This is required for all indoor gatherings with over 15 people attending or expected to attend, and outdoor gatherings of over 30 people.\n\nI hope this is of assistance to you.","answerHtml":"Whilst over the last number of months we have been able to make several relaxations to restrictions, it is important to note that social distancing remains an integral part of the measures we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones. We ask that people maintain social distancing as much as possible and avoid large gatherings as this will help slow the spread of Covid-19. Throughout the pandemic the message has been, and continues to be, to practise good hand hygiene, washing hands well and as often as possible. This remains key to slowing the spread of the virus.
In regards to the use of face coverings, these remain mandatory, unless exempt, whilst on public transport, private buses, taxis, aircrafts, in airports and in train and bus stations. They are also mandatory if you leave your table in a hospitality setting, in any retail setting or in any indoor public space.
The maximum numbers permitted to attend a gathering in venue other than a private dwelling is to be decided by the organisers on a risk assessed basis. This is required for all indoor gatherings with over 15 people attending or expected to attend, and outdoor gatherings of over 30 people.
I hope this is of assistance to you.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021416%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346251","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346251"}},{"id":"346250","reference":"AQW 21415/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-05","answerBy":"2021-07-22","answered":"2021-08-12","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) to confirm how many businesses have sought help from the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland to ensure their post COVID-19 return risk assessments are being completed correctly; and (ii) how many businesses has the HSENI visited to check that post COVID-19 return risk assessments are in place.","answerText":"HSENI and Local Councils are responsible for the enforcement of Health and Safety at Work Legislation for workplaces in Northern Ireland. Local Councils enforce in offices, retail premises, hospitality and leisure / entertainment activities. HSENI enforces in most other workplaces.\n\nMany of the businesses that HSENI enforce upon have continued to operate throughout the pandemic. HSENI has supported Northern Ireland’s public health response in the workplace by adopting a risk-based approach, providing advice to employers and employees and ensuring employers have carried out an appropriate assessment of the risk from COVID-19 in their workplace and put appropriate measures in place in line with Public Health Agency guidance.\n\nHSENI has completed in excess of 1270 site visits in relation to Covid-19 since July 2020. HSENI has also completed 8979 remote interactions directly attributed to Covid-19 issues from July 2020 to the start of July 2021.\n\nHSENI continues to play a very important role in ensuring appropriate COVID-19 mitigations have been implemented in the businesses it has enforcement responsibility for and will continue to work closely with those industry sectors to enable businesses to put practical measures in place to manage and control workplace risks including protecting workers and others from the risk of COVID-19 infection in the workplace.","answerHtml":"HSENI and Local Councils are responsible for the enforcement of Health and Safety at Work Legislation for workplaces in Northern Ireland. Local Councils enforce in offices, retail premises, hospitality and leisure / entertainment activities. HSENI enforces in most other workplaces.
Many of the businesses that HSENI enforce upon have continued to operate throughout the pandemic. HSENI has supported Northern Ireland’s public health response in the workplace by adopting a risk-based approach, providing advice to employers and employees and ensuring employers have carried out an appropriate assessment of the risk from COVID-19 in their workplace and put appropriate measures in place in line with Public Health Agency guidance.
HSENI has completed in excess of 1270 site visits in relation to Covid-19 since July 2020. HSENI has also completed 8979 remote interactions directly attributed to Covid-19 issues from July 2020 to the start of July 2021.
HSENI continues to play a very important role in ensuring appropriate COVID-19 mitigations have been implemented in the businesses it has enforcement responsibility for and will continue to work closely with those industry sectors to enable businesses to put practical measures in place to manage and control workplace risks including protecting workers and others from the risk of COVID-19 infection in the workplace.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021415%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346250","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346250"}},{"id":"346249","reference":"AQW 21414/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-05","answerBy":"2021-07-22","answered":"2021-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she has any plans to pay carers that are in receipt of Carers Allowance, a COVID-19 recognition payment.","answerText":"At the end of January 2021 the Minister of Health, announced that his Department would be making a one-off payment to health and social care workers in recognition of the work they had undertaken during the COVID-19 pandemic. At that time he also indicated that his Department was considering a similar payment for unpaid carers but further scoping work was still required in connection to this. As I understand this payment is still under consideration by the Department of Health.","answerHtml":"At the end of January 2021 the Minister of Health, announced that his Department would be making a one-off payment to health and social care workers in recognition of the work they had undertaken during the COVID-19 pandemic. At that time he also indicated that his Department was considering a similar payment for unpaid carers but further scoping work was still required in connection to this. As I understand this payment is still under consideration by the Department of Health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021414%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346249","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346249"}},{"id":"346248","reference":"AQW 21413/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-05","answerBy":"2021-07-22","answered":"2021-08-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what recognition she will be providing for volunteers who worked alongside the paid staff funded by Supporting People that are receiving a £500 Covid recognition payment.","answerText":"I value the work of all staff in the Voluntary and Community Sector and recognise the contribution they have made over the last year. I also recognise that as restrictions are lifted, volunteers will continue to play a vital role in activities that will support our recovery. During 2021/22 my Department provide £595,482 through the Volunteering Infrastructure Support Programme and also made available an additional £500,000 to support emergency related Volunteering during the COVID crisis.\n\nThroughout the Covid 19 pandemic I have consistently made the case that Supporting People and Homelessness staff deliver services that are similar to those delivered through the Health and Care sectors.\n\nIn recognition of these similarities, and in light of Minister Swann’s announcement in January regarding a Health and Social Care staff recognition payment I have decided to offer an ex gratia basis of up to £500 net.","answerHtml":"I value the work of all staff in the Voluntary and Community Sector and recognise the contribution they have made over the last year. I also recognise that as restrictions are lifted, volunteers will continue to play a vital role in activities that will support our recovery. During 2021/22 my Department provide £595,482 through the Volunteering Infrastructure Support Programme and also made available an additional £500,000 to support emergency related Volunteering during the COVID crisis.
Throughout the Covid 19 pandemic I have consistently made the case that Supporting People and Homelessness staff deliver services that are similar to those delivered through the Health and Care sectors.
In recognition of these similarities, and in light of Minister Swann’s announcement in January regarding a Health and Social Care staff recognition payment I have decided to offer an ex gratia basis of up to £500 net.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021413%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346248","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346248"}},{"id":"346247","reference":"AQW 21412/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-05","answerBy":"2021-07-22","answered":"2021-08-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to list the organisations, including any public sector bodies, and the geographical area they cover, where staff will receive the COVID recognition payment of £500; and whether she has taken any action to protect recipients on welfare benefits from having this payment deducted from benefit.","answerText":"The Recognition Payment scheme is still in development and I will be considering all aspects of the scheme including potential impact on benefits. My Officials will also investigate how any impacts may be mitigated.\n\nA list of the Organisations is attached.\n\nSP Provider\tPostal Address\tEmail Address\nAbbeyfield and Wesley HA\t2 Wesley Court, Carrickfergus, BT38 8HS\tggilpin@abbeyfieldandwesley.org.uk\nAbbeyfield Belfast\tAgape Centre, 238-266 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 6GF\tniki@abbeyfieldbelfast.org.uk\nAction for Children\tLoughshore House, 10 Heron Road, Belfast, BT3 9LE\tLorna.Ballard@actionforchildren.org.uk\nAge North Down Ards\t24 Hamilton Road, Bangor, BT20 4LE\tagenda@agenorthdownards.co.uk\nAlpha HA\t6 Edgewater Road, Belfast, BT3 9JQ\tcameron.watt@alphahousingni.org\nApex HA\t10 Butcher Street, Londonderry, BT48 6HL\ts.mccallion@apexhousing.org\nArk HA\tHawthorn Office Park, 37A Stockman’s Way, Belfast, BT9 7ET\tjim.mcshane@arkhousing.co.uk\nAutism Initiatives\tOffice 1 & 2 Linden House, Beechill Business Park, 96 Beechill Road, Belfast, BT8 7QN\teamonn.slevin@ai-ni.co.uk\nBarnardo’s\t542-544 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3HE\tmichele.janes@barnardos.org.uk\nBelfast Central Mission\tGrosvenor House, 5 Glengall Street, Belfast, BT12 5AD\tnconway@belfastcentralmission.org\nBelfast Women’s Aid\t30 Adelaide Park, Belfast, BT9 6FY\tkelly.andrews@Belfastwomensaid.org.uk\nCouncil for Social Witness\tChurch House, Fisherwick Place, Belfast, BT1 6DW\tlconway@presbyterianireland.org\nBryson Intercultural\t28 Bedford Street, Belfast, BT2 7FE\tslogan@brysongroup.org\nCamphill Clanabogan\t15 Drudgeon Road, Omagh, BT78 1TJ\tmartin.sturm@camphillclanabogan.com\nCamphill Mourne Grange\t169 Newry Road, Kilkeel, BT34 4EX\tlizziedixon@mournegrange.org\nCauseway & Mid Ulster Women’s Aid\t27 Old Coagh Road, Cookstown, BT80 8QG\tceo@causewaywomensaid.org\nChoice HA\tLeslie Morrell House, 37-41 May Street, Belfast, BT1 4DN\tMichael.McDonnell@choice-housing.org\nCitrah Foundation\t28 North Street, Carrickfergus, BT38 7AQ\tinfo@cithrah.org.uk\nClanmil HA\tNorthern Whig House, 3 Waring St, Belfast, BT1 2DX\tlaura.drummond@clanmil.org.uk (PA)\nClarendon Shelter Ltd\tClarendon at Ashmore, Edenmore Court, Northland Avenue, Londonderry BT48 7NG\tliam.milligan@nwmm.co.uk\nCouncil for the Homeless NI\t60 Great Victoria Street, Belfast, BT2 7BB\tnicola.mccrudden@chni.org.uk\nCroft Community\t71 Bloomfield Rd, Bangor BT20 4UR\tc.mccarthy@cedar-foundation.org\nCuan Mhuire\t200 Dublin Road, Newry, BT35 8RL\tgmcelroy@cuanmhuire.ie\nDe Paul\t449 Antrim Road, Belfast, BT15 3BJ\tdavid.carroll@depaulcharity.net\nEast Belfast Mission\t239 Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 1AF\tandrew.irvine@ebm.org.uk\nRadius HA\t38-52 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 6AA\tjohn.mclean@foldgroup.co.uk\nExtern\tExtern Group, Hydepark House, 3 McKinney Road, Newtownabbey, BT36 4PE\tdanny.mcquillan@extern.org\nFermanagh Women’s Aid\tSafe Hands Centre, 19 Darling Street, Enniskillen, BT74 7DP\tmary@fermanaghwomensaid.com\nFirst Housing Aid and Support Services\t23 Bishop Street, Londonderry, BT48 6PR\tkevinwright@first-housing.com\nFoyle Women’s Aid\tPathways, 24 Pump Street, Londonderry, BT48 6JG\tmarie.brown@foylewomensaid.org\nHabinteg HA\tAlex Moira House, 22 Hibernia Street, Holywood, BT18 9JE\tdarren.mckinney@habinteg-ulster.co.uk\nHarmoni\t39 Downshire Road, Bangor, BT20 3RD\tsam.humphries@niid.co.uk\nHomecare Independent Living\tCallan House, Hill Street, Armagh, BT60 3NZ\tMmackle@homecareindependentliving.com\nHousing Rights\tSkainos Centre, 241 Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT1 4AF\tjanet@housingrights.org.uk\nInspire Wellbeing\tInspire Central Office, Lombard House, 10-20 Lombard Street, Belfast BT1 1RD\tk.anthony@inspirewellbeing.org\nKilcreggan Homes\tFlat 2, Kilcreggan Homes, Elizabeth Avenue, Carrickfergus, BT38 7UY\tdamian@kilcreggan.org.uk\nL’Arche Belfast\t54 Knockbreda Road, Belfast, BT6 OJB\tmanager@larchebelfast.org.uk\nLarne Community Care\t3-5 Doric Way, Larne, BT40 2BH\tdiane.t@larneccc.org.uk\nLegion Of Mary Regina Coeli\t8-10 Lakeglen Avenue, Andersonstown Road Belfast BT11 8FE\tgeraldine@notjustgovernance.com\nLeonard Cheshire Disability\t10-12 Derryvolgie Avenue, Belfast, BT9 6FL\tfiona.mccabe@leonardcheshire.org\nLife Housing\t183 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7AJ\tjulieclark@lifecharity.org.uk\nLivability NI\t6 Mitre Passage, London, SE10 0ER\tmburnley@livability.org.uk\nLiving Rivers\tLiving Rivers Lighthouse, Hostel 24/7, 8 Linenhall Street, Ballymena, BT43 5AL\thgrahame@btopenworld.com\nLoughgiel Community\tMillennium Centre, 38 Lough Road, Loughgiel, Ballymena, BT44 9JN\tloughgiel@btconnect.com\nMACS NI\t303 Ormeau Road, Belfast, BT7 3GG\tmaryryan@macsni.org\nMainstay DRP\t2 Cumulus Heights, Killough Road, Downpatrick, BT30 6WT\thelen@mainstaydrp.org\nMencap\tOmagh Community House, 2 Drumragh Avenue, Omagh, BT78 1DP\tbarry.mcmenamin@mencap.org.uk\nMind Wise New Vision\tPinewood House, 46 Newforge Lane, Belfast, BT9 5NW\tanne.doherty@mindwisenv.org\nNorth West Methodist Mission\t36 Clooney Terrace, Londonderry, BT47 6AR\tliam.milligan@nwmm.co.uk\nMorning Star House - Legion of Mary\t2-12 Divis Street, Belfast, BT12 4AL\tgeraldine@notjustgovernance.com\nNewington HA\t63-75 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast, BT15 2GB\ta.kerr@newingtonha.co.uk\nNIACRO\tAmelia House, 4-8 Amelia Street, Belfast, BT2 7GS\tolwynlyner@niacro.co.uk\nNorth Belfast Housing\tGatelodge, 8 Flax Street, Belfast, BT14 7EQ\tdonal.conway@nb-housing.org\nNorth Down and Ards Women’s Aid\t18 Bingham Street, Bangor, BT20 5DW\tbeth.ndawa@gmail.com\nNorth Down YMCA\t10-12 High Street, Bangor, BT20 5AY\tstuart@northdownymca.org\nOmagh Women’s Aid\t9 Holmview Terrace, Omagh, BT79 0AH\tedel@omaghwomensaid.org\nPositive Futures\t2B Park Drive, Bangor, BT20 4JZ\tagnes.lunny@positive-futures.net\nPraxis Care\t25-31 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7AA\tandymayhew@praxiscare.org.uk'\nQueens Quarter Housing\t153 University Street, Belfast, BT7 1HR\tc.toland@queensquarterhousing.com\nRosemount House\t424 Antrim Road, Belfast, BT15 5GA\tmanager@rosemounthouselimited.org\nShelter NI\tMerrion Business Centre, 58 Howard Street, Belfast, BT1 6PJ\ttony.mcquillan@shelterni.org\nSimon Community\tSimon Community NI Limited, 25-27 Franklin Street, Belfast, BT2 8DS\tjimdennison@simoncommunity.org\nStep NI\tThe Junction, 12 Beechvalley Way, Dungannon, BT70 1BS\tbernadette.mcaliskey@stepni.org\nStreet Soccer\t293 Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 1AF\tjustin@streetsoccerni.org\nThe Salvation Army\tCentenary House, 2 Victoria Street, Belfast, BT1 3GE\terene.williamson@salvationarmy.org.uk\nThe Beeches\t7 Lurgan Road, Aghalee, Craigavon, BT67 0DD\tjames@thebeechesltd.com\nThe Cedar Foundation\t31 Ulsterville Avenue, Belfast, BT9 7AS\ts.mathews@cedar-foundation.org\nLink family and Community Centre\t8-12 West Street, Newtownards, BT23 4EN\tmark@thelinkcentre.org\nThreshold\t432 Antrim Road, Belfast, BT15 5GB\tloretta@threshold-services.co.uk\nTriangle HA\t60 Eastermeade Gardens, Ballymoney, BT53 6BD\tchris.alexander@trianglehousing.org.uk\nUpper Springfield Development Trust\t200 Springfield Road, Belfast, BT12 7DB\tpaulamcmurran@usdt.co.uk\nWelcome Organisation\tThe Welcome Organisation Unit 36 Townsend Street BELFAST BT13 2 ES\tjodg@homelessbelfast.org\nWomen’s Aid ABCLN\t2 Cullybackey Road, Ballymena\trosemary.magill@womensaidabcln.org\nWomen’s Aid Armagh Down\t7 Downshire Place, Newry, BT34 1DZ\teileen@womensaidarmaghdown.org\nWoodvale and Shankill Community HA\tUSEL Building, 182-188 Cambrai Street, Belfast, BT13 3JH\tmichael@wscha.org\nWestern HSCT\tWestern Health and Social Care Trust MDEC Building, Altnagelvin Area Hospital, Glenshane Road, Londonderry, BT47 6SB\tanoinette.gallagher@westerntrust.hscni.net (PA)\nSouth East HSCT\tTrust Headquarters, Ulster Hospital, Upper Newtownards Road, Dundonald, BT16 1RH\tvalerie.woods@setrust.hscni.ne (PA)\nSouthern Health and Social Care Trust - (PA elaine.wright@southerntrust.hscni.net)\tSouthern Health and Social Care Trust, Craigavon Area Hospital, 68 Lurgan Road, Portadown, BT63 5QQ\telaine.wright@southerntrust.hscni.net (PA)\nNorthern Health & Social Care Trust\tGround Floor, Bretten Hall, Antrim Area Hospital, Bush Road, Antrim, BT41 2RL\tjennifer.welsh@northerntrust.hscni.net\nBelfast HSCT\tCity Hospital, A Floor, Trust Head Quarters, Belfast BT9 7AB\tsharona.kelly@belfasttrust.hscni.net (PA)","answerHtml":"The Recognition Payment scheme is still in development and I will be considering all aspects of the scheme including potential impact on benefits. My Officials will also investigate how any impacts may be mitigated.
A list of the Organisations is attached.
| SP Provider | Postal Address | Email Address |
| Abbeyfield and Wesley HA | 2 Wesley Court, Carrickfergus, BT38 8HS | ggilpin@abbeyfieldandwesley.org.uk |
| Abbeyfield Belfast | Agape Centre, 238-266 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 6GF | niki@abbeyfieldbelfast.org.uk |
| Action for Children | Loughshore House, 10 Heron Road, Belfast, BT3 9LE | Lorna.Ballard@actionforchildren.org.uk |
| Age North Down Ards | 24 Hamilton Road, Bangor, BT20 4LE | agenda@agenorthdownards.co.uk |
| Alpha HA | 6 Edgewater Road, Belfast, BT3 9JQ | cameron.watt@alphahousingni.org |
| Apex HA | 10 Butcher Street, Londonderry, BT48 6HL | s.mccallion@apexhousing.org |
| Ark HA | Hawthorn Office Park, 37A Stockman’s Way, Belfast, BT9 7ET | jim.mcshane@arkhousing.co.uk |
| Autism Initiatives | Office 1 & 2 Linden House, Beechill Business Park, 96 Beechill Road, Belfast, BT8 7QN | eamonn.slevin@ai-ni.co.uk |
| Barnardo’s | 542-544 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3HE | michele.janes@barnardos.org.uk |
| Belfast Central Mission | Grosvenor House, 5 Glengall Street, Belfast, BT12 5AD | nconway@belfastcentralmission.org |
| Belfast Women’s Aid | 30 Adelaide Park, Belfast, BT9 6FY | kelly.andrews@Belfastwomensaid.org.uk |
| Council for Social Witness | Church House, Fisherwick Place, Belfast, BT1 6DW | lconway@presbyterianireland.org |
| Bryson Intercultural | 28 Bedford Street, Belfast, BT2 7FE | slogan@brysongroup.org |
| Camphill Clanabogan | 15 Drudgeon Road, Omagh, BT78 1TJ | martin.sturm@camphillclanabogan.com |
| Camphill Mourne Grange | 169 Newry Road, Kilkeel, BT34 4EX | lizziedixon@mournegrange.org |
| Causeway & Mid Ulster Women’s Aid | 27 Old Coagh Road, Cookstown, BT80 8QG | ceo@causewaywomensaid.org |
| Choice HA | Leslie Morrell House, 37-41 May Street, Belfast, BT1 4DN | Michael.McDonnell@choice-housing.org |
| Citrah Foundation | 28 North Street, Carrickfergus, BT38 7AQ | info@cithrah.org.uk |
| Clanmil HA | Northern Whig House, 3 Waring St, Belfast, BT1 2DX | laura.drummond@clanmil.org.uk (PA) |
| Clarendon Shelter Ltd | Clarendon at Ashmore, Edenmore Court, Northland Avenue, Londonderry BT48 7NG | liam.milligan@nwmm.co.uk |
| Council for the Homeless NI | 60 Great Victoria Street, Belfast, BT2 7BB | nicola.mccrudden@chni.org.uk |
| Croft Community | 71 Bloomfield Rd, Bangor BT20 4UR | c.mccarthy@cedar-foundation.org |
| Cuan Mhuire | 200 Dublin Road, Newry, BT35 8RL | gmcelroy@cuanmhuire.ie |
| De Paul | 449 Antrim Road, Belfast, BT15 3BJ | david.carroll@depaulcharity.net |
| East Belfast Mission | 239 Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 1AF | andrew.irvine@ebm.org.uk |
| Radius HA | 38-52 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 6AA | john.mclean@foldgroup.co.uk |
| Extern | Extern Group, Hydepark House, 3 McKinney Road, Newtownabbey, BT36 4PE | danny.mcquillan@extern.org |
| Fermanagh Women’s Aid | Safe Hands Centre, 19 Darling Street, Enniskillen, BT74 7DP | mary@fermanaghwomensaid.com |
| First Housing Aid and Support Services | 23 Bishop Street, Londonderry, BT48 6PR | kevinwright@first-housing.com |
| Foyle Women’s Aid | Pathways, 24 Pump Street, Londonderry, BT48 6JG | marie.brown@foylewomensaid.org |
| Habinteg HA | Alex Moira House, 22 Hibernia Street, Holywood, BT18 9JE | darren.mckinney@habinteg-ulster.co.uk |
| Harmoni | 39 Downshire Road, Bangor, BT20 3RD | sam.humphries@niid.co.uk |
| Homecare Independent Living | Callan House, Hill Street, Armagh, BT60 3NZ | Mmackle@homecareindependentliving.com |
| Housing Rights | Skainos Centre, 241 Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT1 4AF | janet@housingrights.org.uk |
| Inspire Wellbeing | Inspire Central Office, Lombard House, 10-20 Lombard Street, Belfast BT1 1RD | k.anthony@inspirewellbeing.org |
| Kilcreggan Homes | Flat 2, Kilcreggan Homes, Elizabeth Avenue, Carrickfergus, BT38 7UY | damian@kilcreggan.org.uk |
| L’Arche Belfast | 54 Knockbreda Road, Belfast, BT6 OJB | manager@larchebelfast.org.uk |
| Larne Community Care | 3-5 Doric Way, Larne, BT40 2BH | diane.t@larneccc.org.uk |
| Legion Of Mary Regina Coeli | 8-10 Lakeglen Avenue, Andersonstown Road Belfast BT11 8FE | geraldine@notjustgovernance.com |
| Leonard Cheshire Disability | 10-12 Derryvolgie Avenue, Belfast, BT9 6FL | fiona.mccabe@leonardcheshire.org |
| Life Housing | 183 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7AJ | julieclark@lifecharity.org.uk |
| Livability NI | 6 Mitre Passage, London, SE10 0ER | mburnley@livability.org.uk |
| Living Rivers | Living Rivers Lighthouse, Hostel 24/7, 8 Linenhall Street, Ballymena, BT43 5AL | hgrahame@btopenworld.com |
| Loughgiel Community | Millennium Centre, 38 Lough Road, Loughgiel, Ballymena, BT44 9JN | loughgiel@btconnect.com |
| MACS NI | 303 Ormeau Road, Belfast, BT7 3GG | maryryan@macsni.org |
| Mainstay DRP | 2 Cumulus Heights, Killough Road, Downpatrick, BT30 6WT | helen@mainstaydrp.org |
| Mencap | Omagh Community House, 2 Drumragh Avenue, Omagh, BT78 1DP | barry.mcmenamin@mencap.org.uk |
| Mind Wise New Vision | Pinewood House, 46 Newforge Lane, Belfast, BT9 5NW | anne.doherty@mindwisenv.org |
| North West Methodist Mission | 36 Clooney Terrace, Londonderry, BT47 6AR | liam.milligan@nwmm.co.uk |
| Morning Star House - Legion of Mary | 2-12 Divis Street, Belfast, BT12 4AL | geraldine@notjustgovernance.com |
| Newington HA | 63-75 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast, BT15 2GB | a.kerr@newingtonha.co.uk |
| NIACRO | Amelia House, 4-8 Amelia Street, Belfast, BT2 7GS | olwynlyner@niacro.co.uk |
| North Belfast Housing | Gatelodge, 8 Flax Street, Belfast, BT14 7EQ | donal.conway@nb-housing.org |
| North Down and Ards Women’s Aid | 18 Bingham Street, Bangor, BT20 5DW | beth.ndawa@gmail.com |
| North Down YMCA | 10-12 High Street, Bangor, BT20 5AY | stuart@northdownymca.org |
| Omagh Women’s Aid | 9 Holmview Terrace, Omagh, BT79 0AH | edel@omaghwomensaid.org |
| Positive Futures | 2B Park Drive, Bangor, BT20 4JZ | agnes.lunny@positive-futures.net |
| Praxis Care | 25-31 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7AA | andymayhew@praxiscare.org.uk' |
| Queens Quarter Housing | 153 University Street, Belfast, BT7 1HR | c.toland@queensquarterhousing.com |
| Rosemount House | 424 Antrim Road, Belfast, BT15 5GA | manager@rosemounthouselimited.org |
| Shelter NI | Merrion Business Centre, 58 Howard Street, Belfast, BT1 6PJ | tony.mcquillan@shelterni.org |
| Simon Community | Simon Community NI Limited, 25-27 Franklin Street, Belfast, BT2 8DS | jimdennison@simoncommunity.org |
| Step NI | The Junction, 12 Beechvalley Way, Dungannon, BT70 1BS | bernadette.mcaliskey@stepni.org |
| Street Soccer | 293 Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 1AF | justin@streetsoccerni.org |
| The Salvation Army | Centenary House, 2 Victoria Street, Belfast, BT1 3GE | erene.williamson@salvationarmy.org.uk |
| The Beeches | 7 Lurgan Road, Aghalee, Craigavon, BT67 0DD | james@thebeechesltd.com |
| The Cedar Foundation | 31 Ulsterville Avenue, Belfast, BT9 7AS | s.mathews@cedar-foundation.org |
| Link family and Community Centre | 8-12 West Street, Newtownards, BT23 4EN | mark@thelinkcentre.org |
| Threshold | 432 Antrim Road, Belfast, BT15 5GB | loretta@threshold-services.co.uk |
| Triangle HA | 60 Eastermeade Gardens, Ballymoney, BT53 6BD | chris.alexander@trianglehousing.org.uk |
| Upper Springfield Development Trust | 200 Springfield Road, Belfast, BT12 7DB | paulamcmurran@usdt.co.uk |
| Welcome Organisation | The Welcome Organisation Unit 36 Townsend Street BELFAST BT13 2 ES | jodg@homelessbelfast.org |
| Women’s Aid ABCLN | 2 Cullybackey Road, Ballymena | rosemary.magill@womensaidabcln.org |
| Women’s Aid Armagh Down | 7 Downshire Place, Newry, BT34 1DZ | eileen@womensaidarmaghdown.org |
| Woodvale and Shankill Community HA | USEL Building, 182-188 Cambrai Street, Belfast, BT13 3JH | michael@wscha.org |
| Western HSCT | Western Health and Social Care Trust MDEC Building, Altnagelvin Area Hospital, Glenshane Road, Londonderry, BT47 6SB | anoinette.gallagher@westerntrust.hscni.net (PA) |
| South East HSCT | Trust Headquarters, Ulster Hospital, Upper Newtownards Road, Dundonald, BT16 1RH | valerie.woods@setrust.hscni.ne (PA) |
| Southern Health and Social Care Trust - (PA elaine.wright@southerntrust.hscni.net) | Southern Health and Social Care Trust, Craigavon Area Hospital, 68 Lurgan Road, Portadown, BT63 5QQ | elaine.wright@southerntrust.hscni.net (PA) |
| Northern Health & Social Care Trust | Ground Floor, Bretten Hall, Antrim Area Hospital, Bush Road, Antrim, BT41 2RL | jennifer.welsh@northerntrust.hscni.net |
| Belfast HSCT | City Hospital, A Floor, Trust Head Quarters, Belfast BT9 7AB | sharona.kelly@belfasttrust.hscni.net (PA) |
Neither DE nor EA gave permission for this bonfire.
EA and DE continue to work together to establish actions that can be taken to prevent unauthorised use of EA land for bonfires.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021331%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346089","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346089"}},{"id":"346088","reference":"AQW 21330/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-02","answerBy":"2021-07-21","answered":"2021-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether she plans to hold an investigation into the actions of the Education Authority in not securing land at the former Castle Gardens Primary School site, Newtownards, resulting in the erection of an illegal and unsafe bonfire during the months of May, June and July 2021.","answerText":"The gate of the site was secured with a new lock following the bonfire last year. The bonfire builders broke this lock and entered the site without the EA’s permission or knowledge at some point in the preceding weeks. I do not feel that any further investigation is required at this time.","answerHtml":"The gate of the site was secured with a new lock following the bonfire last year. The bonfire builders broke this lock and entered the site without the EA’s permission or knowledge at some point in the preceding weeks. I do not feel that any further investigation is required at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021330%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346088","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346088"}},{"id":"346087","reference":"AQW 21329/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-02","answerBy":"2021-07-21","answered":"2021-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether she provided permission to the Education Authority for lands it owns to be used for bonfires.","answerText":"The Education Authority has not given authority for bonfires on its land.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority has not given authority for bonfires on its land.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021329%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346087","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346087"}},{"id":"346086","reference":"AQW 21328/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-02","answerBy":"2021-07-21","answered":"2021-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether she plans to release the former Castle Gardens Primary school site in Newtownards for social housing development.","answerText":"The Department of Education is not the owner of the site.\n\nThe EA owns the land and has declared it surplus to its requirements however a complex legal title has meant that it is proving extremely difficult to sell the site.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education is not the owner of the site.
The EA owns the land and has declared it surplus to its requirements however a complex legal title has meant that it is proving extremely difficult to sell the site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021328%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346086","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346086"}},{"id":"346085","reference":"AQW 21327/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-02","answerBy":"2021-07-21","answered":"2021-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what plans her Department and the Education Authority have for the former Castle Gardens Primary School site in Newtownards.","answerText":"The EA owns the land referred to and has declared it surplus to requirement however a complex legal title has meant that it is proving extremely difficult to dispose of the site. The EA will continue to endeavour to dispose of this site.","answerHtml":"The EA owns the land referred to and has declared it surplus to requirement however a complex legal title has meant that it is proving extremely difficult to dispose of the site. The EA will continue to endeavour to dispose of this site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021327%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346085","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346085"}},{"id":"345352","reference":"AQW 20959/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-25","answerBy":"2021-07-14","answered":"2021-07-16","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, pursuant to AQW 19631/17-22, for (i) a copy of the minutes of the Commission on Flags, Identity, Culture & Tradition working group meetings; (ii) a full list of the members of the FICT working group; and (iii) a list of the recommendations from the FCIT report that the FICT working group are progressing.","answerText":"(i) Junior Ministers met with the joint chairs of the FICT Commission on 20 October 2020, and met with officials on 19 January 2021 to consider next steps, including the formation of a FICT working group to progress issues in relation to the report. Copies of the minutes of the FICT Working Group meetings are provided below:\n\nNote of the Meeting of the FICT Working Group\n\nThursday 15 April 2021, 10am\n\nAttendees:\n\nJM Kearney\n\nJM Lyons\n\nDiary Secretaries\n\nJM SPADs\n\nChris Stewart (TEO)\n\nRichard Cushnie (TEO)\n\nTEO Officials\n\nIntroductions\n\nChris Stewart welcomed members to the meeting.\n\nCurrent position\n\nChris Stewart updated the group on the current position of work relating to progressing the FICT Report. Work is ongoing on a series of papers for submission to a future meeting of the Executive, as outlined in the paper approved by the Executive on 25 March. Engagement with Departments to inform this process is ongoing.\n\nMinutes of the last Meeting, Draft Terms of Reference (ToR).\n\nThe minutes of the meeting of the FICT Working Group on 18 March and the draft ToR of the FICT working group were both agreed.\n\nThe proposed way forward\n\nThe group discussed next steps. It was agreed:\n\nOnce initial engagement with Departments has been completed an updated Recommendations Analyses will be made available to the Working Group for comment.\n\nA meeting between Junior Ministers and the Joint Chairs of the FICT Commission is to be scheduled as soon as diaries permit.\n\nNote of the meeting of the FICT Working Group 18 March 2021, 2pm, via zoom\n\nAttendees:JM KearneyJM LyonsDiary SecretariesJM SPADsChris Stewart (TEO)Richard Cushnie (TEO)TEO Officials\n\nNote of the meeting\n\nChris Stewart welcomed everyone to the first meeting of the FICT Working Group.\n\nThe Working Group discussed a number of issues in relation to a proposed way forward in relation to the FICT Report, and issues regarding its handling, including publication.\n\nIt was agreed TEO Officials would draft a paper outlining a proposed way forward in relation to these matters for approval at the Executive meeting on 25 March 2021.\n\n(ii) The membership of the FICT Working Group when it last met on 15 April 2021 was:\n\nJM Declan Kearney\n\nJM Gordon Lyons\n\nJM SPADs\n\nChris Stewart (TEO)\n\nRichard Cushnie (TEO)\n\nTEO Officials\n\n(iii) Decisions on the publication of the FICT report, including details of progressing the recommendations in the action plan, will be matters for all Executive Ministers working together. The FICT Working Group is advancing the cross-departmental engagement to take this forward.","answerHtml":"(i) Junior Ministers met with the joint chairs of the FICT Commission on 20 October 2020, and met with officials on 19 January 2021 to consider next steps, including the formation of a FICT working group to progress issues in relation to the report. Copies of the minutes of the FICT Working Group meetings are provided below:
Note of the Meeting of the FICT Working Group
Thursday 15 April 2021, 10am
Attendees:
JM Kearney
JM Lyons
Diary Secretaries
JM SPADs
Chris Stewart (TEO)
Richard Cushnie (TEO)
TEO Officials
Introductions
Chris Stewart welcomed members to the meeting.
Current position
Chris Stewart updated the group on the current position of work relating to progressing the FICT Report. Work is ongoing on a series of papers for submission to a future meeting of the Executive, as outlined in the paper approved by the Executive on 25 March. Engagement with Departments to inform this process is ongoing.
Minutes of the last Meeting, Draft Terms of Reference (ToR).
The minutes of the meeting of the FICT Working Group on 18 March and the draft ToR of the FICT working group were both agreed.
The proposed way forward
The group discussed next steps. It was agreed:
Once initial engagement with Departments has been completed an updated Recommendations Analyses will be made available to the Working Group for comment.
A meeting between Junior Ministers and the Joint Chairs of the FICT Commission is to be scheduled as soon as diaries permit.
Note of the meeting of the FICT Working Group 18 March 2021, 2pm, via zoom
Attendees:JM KearneyJM LyonsDiary SecretariesJM SPADsChris Stewart (TEO)Richard Cushnie (TEO)TEO Officials
Note of the meeting
Chris Stewart welcomed everyone to the first meeting of the FICT Working Group.
The Working Group discussed a number of issues in relation to a proposed way forward in relation to the FICT Report, and issues regarding its handling, including publication.
It was agreed TEO Officials would draft a paper outlining a proposed way forward in relation to these matters for approval at the Executive meeting on 25 March 2021.
(ii) The membership of the FICT Working Group when it last met on 15 April 2021 was:
JM Declan Kearney
JM Gordon Lyons
JM SPADs
Chris Stewart (TEO)
Richard Cushnie (TEO)
TEO Officials
(iii) Decisions on the publication of the FICT report, including details of progressing the recommendations in the action plan, will be matters for all Executive Ministers working together. The FICT Working Group is advancing the cross-departmental engagement to take this forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020959%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345352","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345352"}},{"id":"345351","reference":"AQW 20958/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-25","answerBy":"2021-07-14","answered":"2021-08-05","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 to detail (i) the process that will be used to define the role and responsibility of the new Office of Identity and Cultural Expression; and (ii) how political parties and the public will be able to be involved in developing the OICE.","answerText":"We are committed to the development and implementation of the rights, language and identity proposals contained in New Decade, New Approach.\n\nThe precise role and function of the proposed office will be determined during the legislative process.","answerHtml":"We are committed to the development and implementation of the rights, language and identity proposals contained in New Decade, New Approach.
The precise role and function of the proposed office will be determined during the legislative process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020958%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345351","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345351"}},{"id":"345350","reference":"AQW 20957/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-25","answerBy":"2021-07-14","answered":"2021-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether her Department (i) signed off the application and allocation process used by Sport NI to allocate the Sports Sustainability Fund; and (ii) agreed to permit previous years’ operating profits as part of the permitted losses.","answerText":"The business case for the Sports Sustainability Fund provided authority for Sport NI to develop and administer the grant scheme, with the procedures to be in line with Sport NI grant guidance.\n\nThe scheme determined COVID related net losses by comparing the COVID affected period of April 2020 to March 2021, against an average of an organisations last three years audited or approved accounts.","answerHtml":"The business case for the Sports Sustainability Fund provided authority for Sport NI to develop and administer the grant scheme, with the procedures to be in line with Sport NI grant guidance.
The scheme determined COVID related net losses by comparing the COVID affected period of April 2020 to March 2021, against an average of an organisations last three years audited or approved accounts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020957%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345350","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345350"}},{"id":"345349","reference":"AQW 20956/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-25","answerBy":"2021-07-14","answered":"2021-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to confirm what insurance cover is in place to provide cover for any person or property damaged by heat emanating or fire from bonfires located on her Department's lands including those controlled by the Education Authority, such as the land at the former Castle Gardens Primary school site in Newtownards.","answerText":"The Education Authority, which is self-insured, indemnifies Controlled, Catholic Maintained and Irish Medium schools in respect of their Public Liability risks and will meet claims for personal injury and damage to property arising from any negligence on the part of such schools or the Authority itself. All other school sectors have their own insurance arrangements.\n\nThe Authority would not cover any claims for personal injury/damage to property due to heat or fire emanating from bonfires lit by third parties without authority on school sites or lands controlled by it unless negligence on the part of either the relevant school or the Authority has been established.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority, which is self-insured, indemnifies Controlled, Catholic Maintained and Irish Medium schools in respect of their Public Liability risks and will meet claims for personal injury and damage to property arising from any negligence on the part of such schools or the Authority itself. All other school sectors have their own insurance arrangements.
The Authority would not cover any claims for personal injury/damage to property due to heat or fire emanating from bonfires lit by third parties without authority on school sites or lands controlled by it unless negligence on the part of either the relevant school or the Authority has been established.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020956%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345349","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345349"}},{"id":"345348","reference":"AQW 20955/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-25","answerBy":"2021-07-14","answered":"2021-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide a copy of her Department’s policy that gives the Education Authority permission to allow land to be used for bonfire sites.","answerText":"My Department does not have a specific policy in relation to bonfires.\n\nIn cases where bonfires are constructed on land in the Education Authority’s ownership, the Authority continues to work with Community Officers in all Council areas and with the Neighbourhood Policing Teams to achieve the best outcome for the local community.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have a specific policy in relation to bonfires.
In cases where bonfires are constructed on land in the Education Authority’s ownership, the Authority continues to work with Community Officers in all Council areas and with the Neighbourhood Policing Teams to achieve the best outcome for the local community.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020955%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345348","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345348"}},{"id":"345186","reference":"AQW 20878/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-24","answerBy":"2021-07-09","answered":"2021-07-01","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 outcome in Learning to Learn - A Framework for Early Years Education and Learning to issue guidance on reducing the length of settling in time for pre-school and Year 1.","answerText":"The Department issued Circular Number 2015/11 and an associated guidance document in April 2015 setting out guidance on induction and transition for pre-school education and primary 1. The guidance advises that the majority of children should be settled into the pre-school setting within the first two to three weeks of September, with all children attending daily, for their full session, no later than the end of September.\n\nThese documents are available online at:\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201511-guidance-induction-and-transition-pre-school-and-year-one; and\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/de/guidance-on-induction-and-transition-pre-school-education-and-year-1.pdf\n\nAt the time of issue, the circular was sent to nursery and primary schools, managing authorities, and those pre-school settings participating in the Pre-school Education Programme (PSEP).\n\nAs new settings may enter the PSEP annually, the information is brought to their attention by the Education Authority and is included in the Information booklet for Pre-School Providers.","answerHtml":"The Department issued Circular Number 2015/11 and an associated guidance document in April 2015 setting out guidance on induction and transition for pre-school education and primary 1. The guidance advises that the majority of children should be settled into the pre-school setting within the first two to three weeks of September, with all children attending daily, for their full session, no later than the end of September.
These documents are available online at:
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201511-guidance-induction-and-transition-pre-school-and-year-one; and
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/de/guidance-on-induction-and-transition-pre-school-education-and-year-1.pdf
At the time of issue, the circular was sent to nursery and primary schools, managing authorities, and those pre-school settings participating in the Pre-school Education Programme (PSEP).
As new settings may enter the PSEP annually, the information is brought to their attention by the Education Authority and is included in the Information booklet for Pre-School Providers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020878%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345186","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345186"}},{"id":"342208","reference":"AQO 2296/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-17","answerBy":"2021-06-28","answered":"2021-06-28","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what discussions he has had with The Executive Office for financial assistance to help travel agents due to ongoing travel restrictions, in addition to The Executive Office’s Travel Agents Coronavirus Financial Assistance Scheme 2021.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Frew","text":"I understand the difficulties that travel agents continue to face in light of the ongoing travel restrictions. However, support for the sector is being taken forward by the Executive Office. In March, TEO introduced the Travel Agents (Coronavirus) Financial Assistance Scheme 2021, which provided a grant payment of £10,000 to travel agent businesses operating from commercial premises or a £3,500 payment to self-employed travel agents working from home. As well as availing themselves of the Executive Office Travel Agents (Coronavirus) Financial Assistance Scheme 2021, I am aware that some travel agents, subject to the respective criteria, have been able to avail themselves of business support grant schemes introduced by my Department, such as the £10,000 small business support scheme; the £25,000 retail, hospitality, tourism and leisure scheme; the micro-business hardship fund; and, more recently, part B of the COVID restrictions business support scheme. Despite the unprecedented level of financial support that has and is being offered, the Department appreciates that there are some businesses and individuals who continue to be severely negatively impacted, with travel agents being one of them. However, it will be for the Executive collectively to determine how any COVID-related funding is allocated as we progress through the road map and lifting restrictions, which, in my eyes, is the most important thing. We must make sure that we can have confidence injected into the market for travel agents."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Does the Minister agree that travel agents are key high street businesses and are vital in supporting our air routes and airports in particular? Therefore, if there is further money coming forward, will he seek to bring forward a further support package through his Department, as opposed to it coming through the Executive Office, in order to target travel agents in particular, because they are so important to our air industry?"},{"speaker":"Mr Frew","text":"I thank the Member for her supplementary question. Since March 2020, the Northern Ireland Executive and the UK Government have introduced an unprecedented number of interventions and packages of financial support to help those who have been affected by the consequences of COVID-19. My Department has led in the delivery of business-related support, providing over £513 million of much-needed funds to support local businesses from all sectors and occupations throughout Northern Ireland, with the primary aim of helping those businesses to survive the pandemic and protect as many local jobs as possible. Despite the unprecedented level of support that has been offered, some businesses and individuals continue to be negatively impacted. The Department and, indeed, the Northern Ireland Executive continue to receive calls for further support packages to be put in place. The Department's focus is on the full and uninterrupted reopening of the Northern Ireland economy in line with the Executive's road map and the associated health regulations. It will be vital to instil confidence into our travel industry in the weeks ahead. I am not sure that the traffic-light scheme actually does that. I think that decisions being made like a guillotine will sap confidence, and that is not a place where we want to be. To add to that answer, I inform the House that the Northern Ireland domestic aviation kickstart scheme (NIDAKS) has now launched. Our domestic and international air connectivity is critical both for the local tourism sector and for the wider economy, especially as we emerge from the COVID-19 crisis. NIDAKS is a support scheme for airlines that is being developed by the Department and is aimed at maintaining and enhancing Northern Ireland's air connectivity with the rest of the United Kingdom following the COVID pandemic."},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"Following on from the previous question, for some businesses, direct financial assistance will be important to allow them to continue to be there to recover. So, as part of the recovery plan, is the Minister looking at support for sectors, such as a the travel and tourism sector, that have been most badly hit? They were the first to close and will probably be the last to open. This morning, I met the English language schools with the Finance Minister, and I really encourage the Economy Minister to meet that sector. That is one sector that has been badly hit by the pandemic and has not had a great deal of assistance."},{"speaker":"Mr Frew","text":"The Member raises a very important issue. It is widely accepted that the coronavirus job retention scheme and the self-employment income support scheme, which are both currently scheduled to end in September of this year, have been instrumental in avoiding mass unemployment. It is clear that both the furlough and the self-employed schemes are essential and must remain in place as we move into a sustainable economic recovery. I will be seeking to engage with the UK Government on how these schemes can be maintained to protect industries that are still impacted by restrictions. I hope that that will enhance and go alongside any work that my Department can do, with regard to its recovery plan going forward, to support businesses and to support jobs. I think that we could well be in for a critical couple of months as we come in to the winter months, and it is important that all restrictions that can be lifted are lifted to ensure that markets can activate and work as they should without any government interference. I think that that is important, and I will certainly be pushing for that support for our industries so that they will be allowed to get on with their business safely and productively and so that we will, hopefully, get the economy back up and running sooner rather than later."},{"speaker":"Mr Weir","text":"As Members have indicated, this has been a critically difficult time for industries across the board in their response to COVID, particularly the travel industry. Obviously, I welcomed the Minister's announcement on Thursday that he was launching NIDAKS, and I note that there has been a very warm welcome to that from our three airports. Can the Minister give the House some more detail on that scheme and how it will be helpful to the travel industry and to airports in particular as we move ahead?"},{"speaker":"Mr Frew","text":"I thank the Member for his question. It is critical that we get this good news story out there, to be fair. NIDAKS aims to support inbound tourism and business travel between Northern Ireland and Great Britain and to encourage inward investment into the local economy. These are essential for Northern Ireland's recovery. We have engaged with our three local airports and the airlines in the development of NIDAKS, and the Department has launched it to deliver on our commitments to support Northern Ireland’s domestic air connectivity with GB as soon as the required approvals are secured. I have spoken to the airports, and I know that they are very thankful for that, as are the airlines involved. It is £4·5 million of support through ministerial direction, and it is vital that we maintain those links to GB not only for tourism but for commuter travel, especially when it comes to visiting family and friends throughout this country. It was very important that the scheme was rolled out as soon as possible. It started at the beginning of June. We had to instil confidence as soon as we could, which is why we had to go down the ministerial direction route."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202296%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=342208","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-06-28&docID=345033#AQO%202296/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=342208"}},{"id":"341345","reference":"AQO 2241/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-10","answerBy":"2021-06-21","answered":"2021-06-21","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what progress is being made to protect young people in non-statutory settings from sexual abuse.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"As I previously announced, I intend to strengthen the current law on abuse of positions of trust by extending its scope beyond those responsible for our young people in the statutory sector. That should be achieved through an amendment of the justice Bill during its passage through the Assembly later this year. While I am very conscious that there has been a particular focus on the risks posed in the sport and religious sectors, I am mindful that predatory behaviour can occur in other environments in which adults have significant influence or power over a young person in their care. I am therefore committed to ensuring that any legislative change is as robust as possible and offers protections where they are needed. That said, it is imperative that the law can withstand scrutiny and challenge in the courts to ensure that there is no wiggle room for offenders. Similarly, I do not want to criminalise people inappropriately. It is crucial that the legal definition that applies in law strike a proportionate balance. We need to ensure that, in protecting our young people, we also respect their rights to engage in a healthy sexual relationship where they wish to do so. The draft justice Bill has been ready to go forward since early May. My attempts to include the approval of the Bill's introduction on the Executive's agenda at every meeting since 6 May have, however, been unsuccessful, and the Executive have still to approve its introduction. I am greatly concerned that that inexplicable and continuing delay is making it increasingly problematic for the Bill to be progressed through its necessary Assembly stages to Royal Assent in the current mandate. I remain hopeful that good sense and responsible stewardship will, even at this late stage, enable me to introduce the Bill and secure its passage in the remainder of this mandate. We are rapidly approaching a point of no return, however. If the Bill cannot be progressed in the current mandate, I will ensure that my Department will take the necessary steps for the inclusion of the abuse of trust provisions in a suitable legislative vehicle early in the next mandate."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"I thank the Minister for her commitment on the matter. The sexual abuse of young people in any format is abhorrent. I am concerned by what the Minister has just said about the justice Bill being held up. Does she have any deadline by which it needs to be presented, beyond which it will be killed off for this mandate?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"That deadline has effectively already passed. To introduce the Bill, we needed approval a number of weeks ago. That would have given the Speaker's Office the customary two weeks to review the legislation and ensure its competence; to arrange with the Business Committee the tabling of the Bill's introduction; to allow a two-week gap between that and Second Reading so that the Department could fully brief the Committee between the two stages; and, subsequently, to allow the Committee to do a call for evidence, hopefully over the summer, to allow it to proceed. That process can, of course, be truncated, and, with the goodwill of the Speaker, it may be possible to carry out the review of the legislation more quickly. With the goodwill of the Committee, it may be possible to do the call for evidence prior to Second Reading. That would be unusual but not impossible. We are, however, now relying on people's goodwill rather than on good procedure, which is a shame. The drafting of the Bill was complete at the end of March. Initially, I issued an Executive paper to seek approval for its introduction on 27 April. The Bill's content, which, as the Member knows, includes important provisions to protect women and children from serious sexual offences and sexual exploitation and a number of other important matters, was agreed with the Executive Committee in November 2020."},{"speaker":"Ms Brogan","text":"I share the Minister's concerns about the delays to the justice Bill by some parties in the Executive. The delays really are inexcusable. It is a concern that children and young people are still at risk and will remain at risk of grooming and sexual abuse while there are no adequate protections in place. Will she outline what the potential implications are if the legislation is not passed in this mandate?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"The Member will be aware that, if the legislation is not passed in this mandate, the current arrangements for protections still apply. It is not that people will have no protection from such offences, but it limits the protections to those working in the statutory sector. Those working in the voluntary sector would not be covered. The Bill covers a number of incredibly important areas to do with public protection. All of the Bill's content, as presented for introduction, was subject to appropriate consultation. No new content has been added in advance of the Bill's introduction. I have written to my Executive colleagues on six separate occasions to stress the importance of the Bill. I have sought to get the Bill on the Executive agenda for a decision at each of the Executive's meetings since 6 May. In the most recent letter, I confirmed that we had at least three Ministers requesting that the item be tabled; indeed, we had all Ministers bar those in the DUP."},{"speaker":"Ms S Bradley","text":"Whilst I appreciate that it is not in itself a solution, has the Minister considered the development of a guidance document so that those in out-of-school settings can engage in best practice in helping the children in their care?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"The preparation of guidance documents on safeguarding would be a matter for the Department of Health, but the law on abuse-of-trust provisions falls to the Department of Justice. In the absence of developments on the Justice Bill, we would look to other Departments to provide interim measures. However, guidance is not law. Those in breach would, therefore, have only breached guidance rather than broken the law and criminal penalties would not be accessible."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202241%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341345","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-06-21&docID=341905#AQO%202241/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341345"}},{"id":"340078","reference":"AQW 19778/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-02","answerBy":"2021-06-17","answered":"2021-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the average length of time the Northern Ireland Housing Executive took to issue payments for The Disabled Facilities Grant, broken down for each region, for each of the last three financial years.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has provided the following table detailing the average number of calendar days taken to issue payment for Disabled Facilities Grants, broken down by Grants Office, for the last two financial years. The Housing Executive has advised that its Private Sector Improvement Services introduced a new IT system in 2019 and therefore it is unable to supply like for like figures for the financial year 2018/19.\n\nGrants Office\tAverage Calendar Days\n2019-2020\t2020-2021\nBelfast\t69\t95\nNorth East\t86\t66\nDerry\t85\t148*\nWest\t39\t42\nSouth\t63\t69\n\nIt should be noted that the figures for 2020-21 were directly impacted by government restrictions as a result of the ongoing pandemic. The Housing Executive did put in place measures to continue processing applications and payments to the construction industry, where possible, during lockdown.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has provided the following table detailing the average number of calendar days taken to issue payment for Disabled Facilities Grants, broken down by Grants Office, for the last two financial years. The Housing Executive has advised that its Private Sector Improvement Services introduced a new IT system in 2019 and therefore it is unable to supply like for like figures for the financial year 2018/19.
| Grants Office | Average Calendar Days | |
| 2019-2020 | 2020-2021 | |
| Belfast | 69 | 95 |
| North East | 86 | 66 |
| Derry | 85 | 148* |
| West | 39 | 42 |
| South | 63 | 69 |
It should be noted that the figures for 2020-21 were directly impacted by government restrictions as a result of the ongoing pandemic. The Housing Executive did put in place measures to continue processing applications and payments to the construction industry, where possible, during lockdown.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019778%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340078","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340078"}},{"id":"339788","reference":"AQW 19655/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-28","answerBy":"2021-06-15","answered":"2021-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions she is taking to address the concerns of the arts sector in relation to Brexit and freedom of movement within the Common Travel Area and Europe.","answerText":"Artists need access to accurate information on the requirements, processes and costs associated with touring. The Arts Council is working with colleagues to provide comprehensive guidance, including practical issues such as visas and taxation, and potentially financial support to offset some of the additional costs involved where reciprocal arrangements with other Member States cannot be put in place.\n\nThe Culture, Arts and Heritage Taskforce will also examine any concerns from the sector, along with potential solutions and mitigations for the medium to longer term.","answerHtml":"Artists need access to accurate information on the requirements, processes and costs associated with touring. The Arts Council is working with colleagues to provide comprehensive guidance, including practical issues such as visas and taxation, and potentially financial support to offset some of the additional costs involved where reciprocal arrangements with other Member States cannot be put in place.
The Culture, Arts and Heritage Taskforce will also examine any concerns from the sector, along with potential solutions and mitigations for the medium to longer term.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019655%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339788","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339788"}},{"id":"339787","reference":"AQW 19654/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-28","answerBy":"2021-06-15","answered":"2021-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what action she is taking to build back capacity and confidence for the arts sector to ensure the complex range of skilled people who work in the arts, such as performers, event supply chain, venues, writers, directors, have the confidence to return to work in this sector post-pandemic.","answerText":"Among other things, the Culture, Arts & Heritage Recovery Taskforce which I established in May has been asked to consider is how the people doing this important work might best be supported while the restrictions continue and as they ease. The work of the Taskforce is an important step in the process of support and recovery and will build on the foundations of stability provided through the £38m investment made by the Executive last year.","answerHtml":"Among other things, the Culture, Arts & Heritage Recovery Taskforce which I established in May has been asked to consider is how the people doing this important work might best be supported while the restrictions continue and as they ease. The work of the Taskforce is an important step in the process of support and recovery and will build on the foundations of stability provided through the £38m investment made by the Executive last year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019654%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339787","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339787"}},{"id":"339786","reference":"AQW 19653/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-28","answerBy":"2021-06-15","answered":"2021-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for her assessment of the impact the withdrawal of Stability and Renewal funding has had on the organisations asked to repay the funding; and whether her Department has agreed any arrangements to allow organisations to repay when they can afford to, given their sector is still not allowed to fully open.","answerText":"My Department distributed just under £36 million in 2020/2021 to support the culture, languages, arts and heritage organisations and individuals impacted by the pandemic.\n\nNo funding has been withdrawn; however, some awards were adjusted to take account of the presence of double funding. One organisation has been asked to repay a small amount of duplicate grant funding.\n\nGiven the ongoing challenges, I am happy to confirm that the Arts Council\n\nwill facilitate an extended repayment period, should this be needed.","answerHtml":"My Department distributed just under £36 million in 2020/2021 to support the culture, languages, arts and heritage organisations and individuals impacted by the pandemic.
No funding has been withdrawn; however, some awards were adjusted to take account of the presence of double funding. One organisation has been asked to repay a small amount of duplicate grant funding.
Given the ongoing challenges, I am happy to confirm that the Arts Council
will facilitate an extended repayment period, should this be needed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019653%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339786","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339786"}},{"id":"339785","reference":"AQW 19652/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-28","answerBy":"2021-06-15","answered":"2021-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) why some arts organisations have been asked to repay Stability and Renewal funding; (ii) who made the decision to withdraw the funding after grant offers had been confirmed; and (iii) whether the repayment decisions were made on a case by case basis or applied to all in receipt of the funds.","answerText":"(i) Only one organisation has been asked to repay a small amount of duplicate grant funding (£1888.50 against an award of £593,103) from Arts Council’s Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations which formed part of DfC’s Covid-19 Culture, Languages, Arts and Heritage Support Programme 2020/2021.\n\n(ii) In consultation with other Executive Departments, and in line with best practice to deliver value for money for public funds, it was decided that DoF’s Localised Restrictions Support Scheme (LRSS) and DfE’s Wet Pubs Benefit Support Scheme (WPBSS) constitute double funding with Covid-19 support provided by this Department to organisations to stabilise their financial position\n\nIn their letter of offer, organisations were advised that where grant funding had been overpaid, repayment would be requested by the delivery partner.\n\n(iii) Many applicants were unsure about the amount of other Executive support provided and a data matching exercise was undertaken by my Department to identify potential funding duplication. Pending the outcome, Arts Council made an initial payment of 50% of assessed need. I am happy to report that following the completion of this process, for the majority of applicants, no adjustments were necessary to the original assess grant award.\n\nEvery organisation received the full amount as assessed by ACNI or other DfC delivery bodies to meet their financial stability needs, albeit in some cases funding was provided by more than one Executive scheme.","answerHtml":"(i) Only one organisation has been asked to repay a small amount of duplicate grant funding (£1888.50 against an award of £593,103) from Arts Council’s Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations which formed part of DfC’s Covid-19 Culture, Languages, Arts and Heritage Support Programme 2020/2021.
(ii) In consultation with other Executive Departments, and in line with best practice to deliver value for money for public funds, it was decided that DoF’s Localised Restrictions Support Scheme (LRSS) and DfE’s Wet Pubs Benefit Support Scheme (WPBSS) constitute double funding with Covid-19 support provided by this Department to organisations to stabilise their financial position
In their letter of offer, organisations were advised that where grant funding had been overpaid, repayment would be requested by the delivery partner.
(iii) Many applicants were unsure about the amount of other Executive support provided and a data matching exercise was undertaken by my Department to identify potential funding duplication. Pending the outcome, Arts Council made an initial payment of 50% of assessed need. I am happy to report that following the completion of this process, for the majority of applicants, no adjustments were necessary to the original assess grant award.
Every organisation received the full amount as assessed by ACNI or other DfC delivery bodies to meet their financial stability needs, albeit in some cases funding was provided by more than one Executive scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019652%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339785","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339785"}},{"id":"339784","reference":"AQW 19651/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-28","answerBy":"2021-06-15","answered":"2021-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to list the arts organisations that have been asked to repay Stability and Renewal COVID-19 funding; and how much money is being withdrawn from each organisation.","answerText":"Only one organisation has been asked to repay a small amount of duplicate grant funding (£1888.50 against an award of £593,103) from Arts Council’s Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations which formed part of DfC’s Covid-19 Culture, Languages, Arts and Heritage Support Programme 2020/2021.","answerHtml":"Only one organisation has been asked to repay a small amount of duplicate grant funding (£1888.50 against an award of £593,103) from Arts Council’s Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations which formed part of DfC’s Covid-19 Culture, Languages, Arts and Heritage Support Programme 2020/2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019651%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339784","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339784"}},{"id":"339622","reference":"AQW 19587/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-27","answerBy":"2021-06-14","answered":"2021-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission, pursuant to AQW 18760/17-22, whether it will review the Independent Financial Review Panel paragraph 40 (2) of the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2016 that requires that Category 2 costs must be paid by the member and may then be recovered by the member from the Commission, to amend this provision, that was not updated in the terms and conditions of employment of Members’ staff in August 2020, to allow direct payment to be made.","answerText":"The issue of recovery of Category 2 costs was not raised with the Assembly Commission during its consultation with Parties in advance of publishing the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) (Amendment) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2020, however the Assembly Commission will ensure that it is considered prior to the next review of the Determination.","answerHtml":"The issue of recovery of Category 2 costs was not raised with the Assembly Commission during its consultation with Parties in advance of publishing the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) (Amendment) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2020, however the Assembly Commission will ensure that it is considered prior to the next review of the Determination.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019587%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339622","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339622"}},{"id":"339621","reference":"AQW 19586/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-27","answerBy":"2021-06-14","answered":"2021-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission whether it will introduce a scheme to donate all viable Assembly and MLA computer hardware being replaced to the Department of Education to provide for schools, pupils and EA youth services.","answerText":"Consideration of options for the disposal, including donation, of redundant IT and related equipment is a key consideration during project planning for the procurement of new or replacement equipment.\n\nIn considering such options, the Assembly Commission is mindful that a number of important factors need to be considered before coming to a final decision on whether donating redundant IT and related equipment is feasible.\n\nThe Assembly Commission typically extends its use of equipment beyond the support period provided by the supplier, including up to or beyond ‘end of life’. Consequently, the age, performance and cosmetic condition of the equipment are key factors in coming to a decision on the viability of its donation.\n\nLiability for the malfunctioning of any equipment which the Assembly Commission may donate to third parties presents considerable legal and contractual difficulties.\n\nUndertaking the necessary hard drive wiping and hardware refurbishment in order to make the equipment suitable for donation requires resourcing and additional cost.\n\nWhen progressing projects for the procurement of new or replacement IT equipment, the Assembly Commission will continue to explore options for the disposal, including donation, of redundant equipment.","answerHtml":"Consideration of options for the disposal, including donation, of redundant IT and related equipment is a key consideration during project planning for the procurement of new or replacement equipment.
In considering such options, the Assembly Commission is mindful that a number of important factors need to be considered before coming to a final decision on whether donating redundant IT and related equipment is feasible.
The Assembly Commission typically extends its use of equipment beyond the support period provided by the supplier, including up to or beyond ‘end of life’. Consequently, the age, performance and cosmetic condition of the equipment are key factors in coming to a decision on the viability of its donation.
Liability for the malfunctioning of any equipment which the Assembly Commission may donate to third parties presents considerable legal and contractual difficulties.
Undertaking the necessary hard drive wiping and hardware refurbishment in order to make the equipment suitable for donation requires resourcing and additional cost.
When progressing projects for the procurement of new or replacement IT equipment, the Assembly Commission will continue to explore options for the disposal, including donation, of redundant equipment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019586%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339621","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339621"}},{"id":"339620","reference":"AQW 19585/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-27","answerBy":"2021-06-14","answered":"2021-08-20","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 ensure all paramilitary emblems and signs are removed from GP surgeries and health clinics.","answerText":"GPs contract with the Health and Social Care Board to provide general medical services for their registered patients.\n\nUnder the General Medical Services (GMS) Contract, a GMS contractor shall:\n\n(a)comply with all relevant legislation, and\n\n(b)have regard to all relevant guidance issued by the Board or the Department.\n\nThe Fair Employment and Treatment (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 and section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 respectively place an obligation on employers and all public bodies to promote a good and harmonious working environment and atmosphere in which no-one feels under threat or intimidated because of his or her religious belief or political opinion, and to promote equality of opportunity between people with different religious beliefs and political opinions\n\nIf any individual GP practice or health clinic does not comply with this legislation then this should be brought to the attention of the Health and Social Care Board, with whom each GMS contract is agreed, for investigation.","answerHtml":"GPs contract with the Health and Social Care Board to provide general medical services for their registered patients.
Under the General Medical Services (GMS) Contract, a GMS contractor shall:
(a)comply with all relevant legislation, and
(b)have regard to all relevant guidance issued by the Board or the Department.
The Fair Employment and Treatment (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 and section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 respectively place an obligation on employers and all public bodies to promote a good and harmonious working environment and atmosphere in which no-one feels under threat or intimidated because of his or her religious belief or political opinion, and to promote equality of opportunity between people with different religious beliefs and political opinions
If any individual GP practice or health clinic does not comply with this legislation then this should be brought to the attention of the Health and Social Care Board, with whom each GMS contract is agreed, for investigation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019585%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339620","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339620"}},{"id":"339619","reference":"AQW 19584/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-27","answerBy":"2021-06-14","answered":"2021-08-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when qFit testing for bowel cancers will be available through primary healthcare, and extended to include patients of age of 50 years or younger.","answerText":"I am pleased to say that qFIT testing is now available in primary healthcare, in accordance with the revised Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) Referral Guidance for Suspect Colorectal Cancer.\n\nIn relation to bowel cancer screening, the current programme is only offered to individuals aged 60-74 years. The UK National Screening Committee recommends that bowel cancer screening is effective for people aged from 50 years; in line with this my Department is considering an extension to the current programme age range as part of the forthcoming Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy. The strategy was published for public consultation today – the 25th August, giving all stakeholders and service users the opportunity to submit their views.","answerHtml":"I am pleased to say that qFIT testing is now available in primary healthcare, in accordance with the revised Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) Referral Guidance for Suspect Colorectal Cancer.
In relation to bowel cancer screening, the current programme is only offered to individuals aged 60-74 years. The UK National Screening Committee recommends that bowel cancer screening is effective for people aged from 50 years; in line with this my Department is considering an extension to the current programme age range as part of the forthcoming Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy. The strategy was published for public consultation today – the 25th August, giving all stakeholders and service users the opportunity to submit their views.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019584%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339619","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339619"}},{"id":"340920","reference":"AQO 2174/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-27","answerBy":"2021-06-07","answered":"2021-06-08","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 Independent Review of Education.","answerText":"The terms of reference for the review have been agreed by the Executive and an open recruitment process for the panel launched on 1 March 2021.\n\nThe recruitment process is ongoing. It is being led by senior officials in the Department, with support from an official in the Department for the Economy and an independent assessor. The process is following guidelines set by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.\n\nI am aware that there has been a significant level of interest in the panel roles and this reflects the importance of the work that lies ahead. I hope to be in a position to make appointments to the independent panel in early July 2021.","answerHtml":"The terms of reference for the review have been agreed by the Executive and an open recruitment process for the panel launched on 1 March 2021.
The recruitment process is ongoing. It is being led by senior officials in the Department, with support from an official in the Department for the Economy and an independent assessor. The process is following guidelines set by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.
I am aware that there has been a significant level of interest in the panel roles and this reflects the importance of the work that lies ahead. I hope to be in a position to make appointments to the independent panel in early July 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202174%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340920","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340920"}},{"id":"339434","reference":"AQW 19509/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-26","answerBy":"2021-06-11","answered":"2021-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission why the Assembly's stationery contract is limited to specific items that prevents MLAs from purchasing permitted items such as a webcam or cleaning materials at cost effective catalogue prices.","answerText":"The Assembly Commission’s current stationery contract is for stationery and IT consumables. It is a framework agreement procured with Banner in 2016 and it covers a range of core stationery and IT consumable products at cost effective prices. The contract was not intended to include IT hardware items such as laptops, webcams, IT storage devices, etc.\n\nDespite the exceptional supply issues that existed at the outset of the pandemic in early 2020 with limited or non-availability of many cleaning products worldwide, cleaning materials and PPE were available from Banner and, accordingly, cleaning products including sanitising gel, wipes, anti-bacterial sprays, blue rolls, etc. are available for Members.","answerHtml":"The Assembly Commission’s current stationery contract is for stationery and IT consumables. It is a framework agreement procured with Banner in 2016 and it covers a range of core stationery and IT consumable products at cost effective prices. The contract was not intended to include IT hardware items such as laptops, webcams, IT storage devices, etc.
Despite the exceptional supply issues that existed at the outset of the pandemic in early 2020 with limited or non-availability of many cleaning products worldwide, cleaning materials and PPE were available from Banner and, accordingly, cleaning products including sanitising gel, wipes, anti-bacterial sprays, blue rolls, etc. are available for Members.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019509%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339434","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339434"}},{"id":"339433","reference":"AQW 19508/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-26","answerBy":"2021-06-11","answered":"2021-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission when the system for MLAs to sponsor charities and organisations to hold events in Parliament Buildings will recommence.","answerText":"The significant easing of public health restrictions and guidance in recent weeks has allowed a degree of family, societal and economic normalisation.\n\nGiven that the Assembly goes in to summer recess on 10 July 2021, the Assembly Commission has agreed that events, tours, public dining and visitors to Parliament Buildings will resume on 14 July 2021, after the public holidays. Naturally, all of these activities will be subject to comprehensive risk assessments and undertaken in a manner that continues to protect staff, Members, other building users and those who might visit for these reasons.\n\nThis date will allow time for staff to make the necessary preparations for the return of visitors to Parliament Buildings while ensuring the health and safety of all building users, and that of the public, and minimising the risk of infection so that the vital work of the Assembly is not disrupted in advance of recess.\n\nOn 22 June 2021 the Events Office will recommence taking provisional bookings for events and tours taking place from 14 July 2021 onwards. Of course, any bookings made will continue to be provisional until public health regulations and guidance permit the event being confirmed.\n\nThe health and safety of all building users, and that of visitors, will continue to be paramount. Consequently, in planning to resume events, tours, public dining and visitors to Parliament Buildings the Assembly Commission will continue to adopt a cautious, risk-based approach. In particular, the practical considerations in relation to the provision of events and public tours, whilst observing any social distancing or other requirements, will need to be considered in detail to ensure that they can be provided safely and if this is not the case then they would not be offered at this time.","answerHtml":"The significant easing of public health restrictions and guidance in recent weeks has allowed a degree of family, societal and economic normalisation.
Given that the Assembly goes in to summer recess on 10 July 2021, the Assembly Commission has agreed that events, tours, public dining and visitors to Parliament Buildings will resume on 14 July 2021, after the public holidays. Naturally, all of these activities will be subject to comprehensive risk assessments and undertaken in a manner that continues to protect staff, Members, other building users and those who might visit for these reasons.
This date will allow time for staff to make the necessary preparations for the return of visitors to Parliament Buildings while ensuring the health and safety of all building users, and that of the public, and minimising the risk of infection so that the vital work of the Assembly is not disrupted in advance of recess.
On 22 June 2021 the Events Office will recommence taking provisional bookings for events and tours taking place from 14 July 2021 onwards. Of course, any bookings made will continue to be provisional until public health regulations and guidance permit the event being confirmed.
The health and safety of all building users, and that of visitors, will continue to be paramount. Consequently, in planning to resume events, tours, public dining and visitors to Parliament Buildings the Assembly Commission will continue to adopt a cautious, risk-based approach. In particular, the practical considerations in relation to the provision of events and public tours, whilst observing any social distancing or other requirements, will need to be considered in detail to ensure that they can be provided safely and if this is not the case then they would not be offered at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019508%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339433","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339433"}},{"id":"339432","reference":"AQW 19507/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-26","answerBy":"2021-06-11","answered":"2021-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many times the Board of Governors of each Controlled primary school in the Strangford constituency met; (i) remotely; and (ii) in person during the academic years 2018-2019, 2019-2020, and 2020-2021 to date.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that it does not hold a record of all meetings, though does retain minutes provided by Boards of Governors (BoG) under the Scheme of Management for controlled schools.\n\nHowever, it should be noted that the absence of submitted minutes to the EA does not mean BoG meetings have not taken place.\nSchools names have not been provided. There may be several reasons why schools may not have submitted minutes, and particularly given the continued challenges of the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, EA endeavours to anonymise the information where possible unless it is required specifically.\nThe table below lists the BoG minutes submitted to EA from Primary Schools in the Strangford Parliamentary Constituency area:\nSchool\tNumber of BOG Meetings that EA hold minutes for\n2018-2019\t2019-2020\t2020-2021\n1\tNone\tNone\tNone\n2\tNone\tNone\tNone\n3\t8\t6 + 1 virtual\t4 virtual\n4\t4\t2\tNone\n5\tNone\tNone\tNone\n6\t2\t1 + 1 virtual\t1\n7\t2\tNone\tNone\n8\tNone\tNone\tNone\n9\tNone\tNone\tNone\n10\tNone\tNone\tNone\n11\tNone\tNone\tNone\n12\tNone\tNone\tNone\n13\t2\t1 virtual + 1 blended\tNone\n14\tNone\tNone\tNone\n15\t1\tNone\tNone\n16\tNone\tNone\tNone\n17\t7\t5\t3\n18\t7\t5\t1 virtual\n19\tNone\t3\tNone\n20\tNone\tNone\tNone\n21\tNone\tNone\tNone\n22\tNone\tNone\tNone\n23\t3\tNone\tNone\n24\tNone\tNone\tNone\n25\tNone\tNone\tNone\n26\t3\t3\tNone\n27\tNone\tNone\tNone\n28\tNone\tNone\tNone\n29\t1\tNone\tNone\n30\tNone\tNone\tNone\n31\tNone\tNone\tNone\n32\t2\tNone\tNone\n33\tNone\tNone\tNone\n34\t2\t2 + 1 virtual\t1 virtual\n35\t4\t1\tNone\n36\t6\t4\t2 virtual\n37\t4\t1\t1 virtual\n38\t1\t1\tNone","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that it does not hold a record of all meetings, though does retain minutes provided by Boards of Governors (BoG) under the Scheme of Management for controlled schools.
| However, it should be noted that the absence of submitted minutes to the EA does not mean BoG meetings have not taken place. Schools names have not been provided. There may be several reasons why schools may not have submitted minutes, and particularly given the continued challenges of the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, EA endeavours to anonymise the information where possible unless it is required specifically. The table below lists the BoG minutes submitted to EA from Primary Schools in the Strangford Parliamentary Constituency area:
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Education Authority is the Employing Authority of teachers and other staff employed in controlled schools. Certain employer functions are delegated to the Board of Governors of controlled schools under the relevant provisions of the Education (NI) Order 1998, such as specific responsibilities relating to the determination of staff complement; grievances; disciplinary; suspension and dismissal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019506%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339431","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339431"}},{"id":"339430","reference":"AQW 19505/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-26","answerBy":"2021-06-11","answered":"2021-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when he and relevant officials from his Department and the Education Authority will meet with myself and representatives of the parents of Killinchy Primary School to address (i) ongoing issues relating to its Board of Governors; (ii) the lack of provision of COVID-19 policies by the Board to parents throughout the pandemic; and to discuss the actions that will be taken to address parents’ concerns.","answerText":"As the managing authority for Killinchy Primary School, the Education Authority (EA) in its operational role provides direct support to schools and Boards of Governors. Killinchy Primary School is a controlled school and there are no DE governors. In light of this, and the services the EA provides, it is recommended that the Member contacts EA directly to arrange a meeting.\n\nI understand from the EA that in addition to the range of routine support services provided to all schools, it has been working to support Killinchy Primary School in a more targeted way over the past 18 month period. Services involved in providing support include the School Development Service and Human Resource & Legal Services.\n\nIn summary, EA has:\n\nProvided advice and guidance to the Board of Governors in its endeavours to address parental correspondence; in regard to minutes of Board of Governor meetings; and in relation to adherence to the Scheme of Management, in particular the election of a new chair;\n\nFacilitated/supported as appropriate the respective processes required to select/elect governors to fill vacancies;\n\nProvided advice and guidance to the Board of Governors in respect of effective governance;\n\nProvided the school with a named ‘Cross Organisational Link Officer’ (COLO) who has maintained contact with the school principal;\n\nProvided the school with a named School Improvement Professional who has been in regular contact with the school principal and vice principal;\n\nProvided routine HR advice, guidance and support to governors and school Leaders;\n\nAllocated a designated HR Link Officer to provide specialist advice, guidance and support to the school in regard to particular matters; and\n\nSupported the school in the correct application of procedures.\n\nEA can also provide advice and support to the school regarding strategic planning and related Leadership and Management issues. Provision of support for the school will continue from a range of services as required.\n\nIn relation to COVID-19 policies, my Department has issued guidance throughout the pandemic to principals and parents on policy changes on how to deal with COVID-19. It is however the responsibility of schools to disseminate any information that they feel is relevant. As most principals are secretary to the Board of Governors, there would be an expectation that any information from the Department would be brought to the attention of the Board of Governors. Governors are expected to work together to fulfil the Board of governors statutory functions in relation to the school. The Board of Governors is accountable for ensuring that its decisions support the best interests of the school and its pupils.","answerHtml":"As the managing authority for Killinchy Primary School, the Education Authority (EA) in its operational role provides direct support to schools and Boards of Governors. Killinchy Primary School is a controlled school and there are no DE governors. In light of this, and the services the EA provides, it is recommended that the Member contacts EA directly to arrange a meeting.
I understand from the EA that in addition to the range of routine support services provided to all schools, it has been working to support Killinchy Primary School in a more targeted way over the past 18 month period. Services involved in providing support include the School Development Service and Human Resource & Legal Services.
In summary, EA has:
Provided advice and guidance to the Board of Governors in its endeavours to address parental correspondence; in regard to minutes of Board of Governor meetings; and in relation to adherence to the Scheme of Management, in particular the election of a new chair;
Facilitated/supported as appropriate the respective processes required to select/elect governors to fill vacancies;
Provided advice and guidance to the Board of Governors in respect of effective governance;
Provided the school with a named ‘Cross Organisational Link Officer’ (COLO) who has maintained contact with the school principal;
Provided the school with a named School Improvement Professional who has been in regular contact with the school principal and vice principal;
Provided routine HR advice, guidance and support to governors and school Leaders;
Allocated a designated HR Link Officer to provide specialist advice, guidance and support to the school in regard to particular matters; and
Supported the school in the correct application of procedures.
EA can also provide advice and support to the school regarding strategic planning and related Leadership and Management issues. Provision of support for the school will continue from a range of services as required.
In relation to COVID-19 policies, my Department has issued guidance throughout the pandemic to principals and parents on policy changes on how to deal with COVID-19. It is however the responsibility of schools to disseminate any information that they feel is relevant. As most principals are secretary to the Board of Governors, there would be an expectation that any information from the Department would be brought to the attention of the Board of Governors. Governors are expected to work together to fulfil the Board of governors statutory functions in relation to the school. The Board of Governors is accountable for ensuring that its decisions support the best interests of the school and its pupils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019505%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339430","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339430"}},{"id":"339151","reference":"AQW 19418/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-25","answerBy":"2021-06-10","answered":"2021-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how much capital money has she bid for in the June monitoring round to progress the road improvements identified in the Ards Peninsula coastal roads survey that identified a number of priority sections of coastal road that needed upgrading.","answerText":"I am assuming the report the Member is referring to is the Ards Peninsula Sea Walls Condition and Repair Cost Report (dated March 2018).\n\nThe funding of works to protect coastal roads in the Ards Peninsula and elsewhere is not bid for separately but rather forms part of my overall capital budget allocation. Coastal Defence works programmes have to compete for funding along with the many other priorities within the Department as well as the Executive.\n\nI recognise the importance of investment in the road infrastructure including coastal protection issues. My officials are currently assessing the financial position and developing programmes and any schemes to be carried out this year in the Ards peninsula will be included in the Department's Spring report which will in due course be presented to Ards and North Down Council.","answerHtml":"I am assuming the report the Member is referring to is the Ards Peninsula Sea Walls Condition and Repair Cost Report (dated March 2018).
The funding of works to protect coastal roads in the Ards Peninsula and elsewhere is not bid for separately but rather forms part of my overall capital budget allocation. Coastal Defence works programmes have to compete for funding along with the many other priorities within the Department as well as the Executive.
I recognise the importance of investment in the road infrastructure including coastal protection issues. My officials are currently assessing the financial position and developing programmes and any schemes to be carried out this year in the Ards peninsula will be included in the Department's Spring report which will in due course be presented to Ards and North Down Council.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019418%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339151","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339151"}},{"id":"339150","reference":"AQW 19417/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-25","answerBy":"2021-06-10","answered":"2021-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) which local councils have submitted blue/green funding proposals; and (ii) which local councils are working with her Department to prepare a blue/green funding proposal.","answerText":"The Blue Green infrastructure fund refers to a specific budget within my Department. It contains a range of spending streams, not all of which flow, or need to flow, directly to councils.\n\nMy Department has been working closely with all Councils and other bodies to look at innovative ways to support active travel alternatives and through the DfC COVID Recovery scheme, my Department has made grants to all Councils in 2020/21 as part of my Green Recovery agenda. My Department is working closely with Councils to deliver interventions, in particular the installation of parklets and delivery of other place making schemes.\n\nI have provided grant funding for greenway projects in Belfast City Council, Derry City and Strabane District Council and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and hope to support more. My officials are continuing to engage with Councils regarding their priority active travel projects.\n\nI have also invited Councils to submit capital proposals for greening of alleyways. Officials have met Belfast City Council and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to discuss their proposals for funding under this initiative and have provided information to others.","answerHtml":"The Blue Green infrastructure fund refers to a specific budget within my Department. It contains a range of spending streams, not all of which flow, or need to flow, directly to councils.
My Department has been working closely with all Councils and other bodies to look at innovative ways to support active travel alternatives and through the DfC COVID Recovery scheme, my Department has made grants to all Councils in 2020/21 as part of my Green Recovery agenda. My Department is working closely with Councils to deliver interventions, in particular the installation of parklets and delivery of other place making schemes.
I have provided grant funding for greenway projects in Belfast City Council, Derry City and Strabane District Council and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and hope to support more. My officials are continuing to engage with Councils regarding their priority active travel projects.
I have also invited Councils to submit capital proposals for greening of alleyways. Officials have met Belfast City Council and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to discuss their proposals for funding under this initiative and have provided information to others.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019417%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339150","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339150"}},{"id":"339149","reference":"AQW 19416/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-25","answerBy":"2021-06-10","answered":"2021-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how many electric vehicle charging points there are in Strangford in public ownership and managed by the local councils within the constituency.","answerText":"The electric vehicle public charge point network is owned, operated and maintained by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB). ESB can be contacted, in respect of the issues you have raised about the public network, at ecars@esb.ie or enquiries can be sent directly to ESB, Two Gateway, East Wall Road, DUBLIN 3, D03 A995.\n\nInformation on charge points managed by councils is available from the relevant councils.\n\nI am committed to supporting the transition to electric vehicles as part of wider transport decarbonisation work and to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"The electric vehicle public charge point network is owned, operated and maintained by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB). ESB can be contacted, in respect of the issues you have raised about the public network, at ecars@esb.ie or enquiries can be sent directly to ESB, Two Gateway, East Wall Road, DUBLIN 3, D03 A995.
Information on charge points managed by councils is available from the relevant councils.
I am committed to supporting the transition to electric vehicles as part of wider transport decarbonisation work and to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019416%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339149","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339149"}},{"id":"338831","reference":"AQW 19257/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-21","answerBy":"2021-06-08","answered":"2021-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, following the passing of the Holidays (Bereavement Leave for Miscarriage) Amendment Bill (No 2) in New Zealand, whether she has any plans to bring forward proposals for bereavement leave to provide leave for miscarriage and for stillbirth so parents don’t have to use sick or annual holiday leave.","answerText":"It is my intention to introduce a Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay (PBLP) Bill in the Assembly in the coming days. My planned Bill includes provision for parents who suffer a still birth in addition to parents who suffer the loss of a child under the age of 18. It will not include a specific provision for parents who suffer a miscarriage.\n\nI am aware of the recent changes in New Zealand and, whilst a specific provision for paid leave to support those who suffer a miscarriage is not included in my PBLP Bill, I do acknowledge that losing a child through miscarriage can be devastating. My main focus, however, in this Bill has been placed on working parents who experience stillbirths and child deaths.\n\nMy experience, however, is that good employers do treat their employees who suffer such a loss with compassion and empathy and I encourage all employers to do the same.\n\nI will continue to monitor any changes made in Great Britain and further afield\n\nto ensure that the employment law framework in Northern Ireland is\n\ncomparable and fair.\n\nMy immediate priority for this mandate remains to introduce Parental\n\nBereavement Leave and Pay in NI akin to that which was introduced in GB in\n\nApril 2020 and to focus on our continued economic recovery efforts in response\n\nto COVID-19.","answerHtml":"It is my intention to introduce a Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay (PBLP) Bill in the Assembly in the coming days. My planned Bill includes provision for parents who suffer a still birth in addition to parents who suffer the loss of a child under the age of 18. It will not include a specific provision for parents who suffer a miscarriage.
I am aware of the recent changes in New Zealand and, whilst a specific provision for paid leave to support those who suffer a miscarriage is not included in my PBLP Bill, I do acknowledge that losing a child through miscarriage can be devastating. My main focus, however, in this Bill has been placed on working parents who experience stillbirths and child deaths.
My experience, however, is that good employers do treat their employees who suffer such a loss with compassion and empathy and I encourage all employers to do the same.
I will continue to monitor any changes made in Great Britain and further afield
to ensure that the employment law framework in Northern Ireland is
comparable and fair.
My immediate priority for this mandate remains to introduce Parental
Bereavement Leave and Pay in NI akin to that which was introduced in GB in
April 2020 and to focus on our continued economic recovery efforts in response
to COVID-19.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019257%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338831","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338831"}},{"id":"338829","reference":"AQW 19255/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-21","answerBy":"2021-06-08","answered":"2021-05-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to provide an update on the Sign Language GCSE being tested by Signature in England; (ii) whether testing has completed; and (iii) whether he is committed to adding the Sign Language GCSE as a choice for Northern Ireland students.","answerText":"The Department for Education (England) is developing content for a potential British Sign Language (BSL) GCSE and proposes to consult on this later this year. As Northern Ireland operates an open qualifications market, if this process leads to accreditation of a qualification by Ofqual, it would then be available for delivery by examination centres in Northern Ireland, once it goes through the standard qualification approval process.\n\nThere are several stages to go through before a qualification becomes accredited for use by learners and the GCSE currently being developed is in the early stages. At this point, it is not possible to provide a timescale for when the rollout of this qualification will take place.","answerHtml":"The Department for Education (England) is developing content for a potential British Sign Language (BSL) GCSE and proposes to consult on this later this year. As Northern Ireland operates an open qualifications market, if this process leads to accreditation of a qualification by Ofqual, it would then be available for delivery by examination centres in Northern Ireland, once it goes through the standard qualification approval process.
There are several stages to go through before a qualification becomes accredited for use by learners and the GCSE currently being developed is in the early stages. At this point, it is not possible to provide a timescale for when the rollout of this qualification will take place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019255%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338829","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338829"}},{"id":"338828","reference":"AQW 19254/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-21","answerBy":"2021-06-08","answered":"2021-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many patients have been waiting (i) 12 to 25; (ii) 26 to 51; (iii) 52 to 77; (iv) 78 to 103; and (v) 104 or more, weeks for a first appointment with the pain clinic in each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Outpatient waiting times are reported by my Department on a quarterly basis. These publications refer to the position at the end of a given quarter, detailing how many patients are still waiting for a first consultant led outpatient appointment broken down by HSC Trust, Specialty and length of time waiting.\n\nThe 2020/21 Draft Ministerial waiting time target, states that:\n\n“By March 2021, 50% of patients should wait no longer than 9 weeks for a first outpatient appointment; with no patient waiting longer than 52 weeks.” This target is the same for all outpatient specialties, including Pain Management.\n\nQuarterly National Statistics on Outpatient Waiting Times Information is published at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/outpatient-waiting-times\n\nTable 1 shows the length of time that patients have been waiting for a first Pain Management outpatient appointment in each HSC Trust at 31st March 2021.\n\nTable 1: Pain Management waiting times as at 31st March 2021\n\nTrust\tTime waiting in weekly time bands\n12-25\t>25-51\t>51-77\t>77-103\t>103+\nBelfast\t195\t218\t350\t462\t712\nNorthern\t173\t305\t460\t536\t886\nSouth Eastern\t194\t223\t490\t533\t695\nSouthern\t129\t231\t398\t116\t0\nWestern\t50\t14\t2\t0\t0\nTotal\t741\t991\t1,700\t1,647\t2,293\n\nSource: DoH Outpatient waiting times dataset","answerHtml":"Outpatient waiting times are reported by my Department on a quarterly basis. These publications refer to the position at the end of a given quarter, detailing how many patients are still waiting for a first consultant led outpatient appointment broken down by HSC Trust, Specialty and length of time waiting.
The 2020/21 Draft Ministerial waiting time target, states that:
“By March 2021, 50% of patients should wait no longer than 9 weeks for a first outpatient appointment; with no patient waiting longer than 52 weeks.” This target is the same for all outpatient specialties, including Pain Management.
Quarterly National Statistics on Outpatient Waiting Times Information is published at the following link:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/outpatient-waiting-times
Table 1 shows the length of time that patients have been waiting for a first Pain Management outpatient appointment in each HSC Trust at 31st March 2021.
Table 1: Pain Management waiting times as at 31st March 2021
| Trust | Time waiting in weekly time bands | ||||
| 12-25 | >25-51 | >51-77 | >77-103 | >103+ | |
| Belfast | 195 | 218 | 350 | 462 | 712 |
| Northern | 173 | 305 | 460 | 536 | 886 |
| South Eastern | 194 | 223 | 490 | 533 | 695 |
| Southern | 129 | 231 | 398 | 116 | 0 |
| Western | 50 | 14 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 741 | 991 | 1,700 | 1,647 | 2,293 |
Source: DoH Outpatient waiting times dataset
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019254%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338828","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338828"}},{"id":"338827","reference":"AQW 19253/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-21","answerBy":"2021-06-08","answered":"2021-09-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when vaccine certificates will be provided in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The potential requirement to provide NI Citizens with certified proof of their vaccination status to facilitate International Travel was identified in April 2020. My officials tracked the development of the EU and WHO specification for such certificates whilst considering the technical infrastructure required to deliver a secure solution which would be interoperable with other UK systems and countries worldwide. Once the specification was finalised development work was commenced to deliver a system to provide a digital and non-digital solution for the production of, secure, trusted certificates by 19 July 2021.\n\nIn response to a unilateral decision by some destination countries to require evidence of vaccination against Covid-19 my Department diverted resources from the development of the Covid-19 Certification Scheme (CCS) to provide an interim solution for urgent International Travel. This was a manual solution to the immediate problem.\n\nThere was a large demand for certificates and priority was given to those travelling immediately to destinations that required a vaccination certificate to avoid compulsory 10 days quarantine. Other applicants were advised to use alternatives, such as PCR tests, where they existed to ensure they would be able to travel.\n\nThe interim CCS supplied 14,000 certificates over the operating period of 2 July to 23 July. A number of applications did not meet the published criteria and could not be taken forward.\n\nThe interim solution transitioned to the comprehensive CCS on 23 July. This uses a combination of NI Direct (Department of Finance) and Health and Social Care IT systems to, wherever possible, automatically verify an applicant’s identity, locate the relevant vaccination information and provide a trusted, digital certificate via an emailed PDF document or the mobile phone App – CovidCert NI. A helpline (0300 200 7814) is available for those unable to use the digital solution.\n\nBy 6 September 2021 the comprehensive CCS had delivered 79,267 certificates for those wishing to travel during August 2021 and a further 24,170 for those wishing to travel in September. Over 80% were delivered using automated processes for identity verification and matching with the vaccination records.\n\nBoth the interim and comprehensive solution have experienced challenges in supplying the requested information due to;\n\nProviding incorrect identity documents;\n\nPoor quality photographs of documents submitted;\n\nRequired information not supplied;\n\nRequesting certificates for travel outside of the specified dates;\n\nFraudulent applications being made;\n\nVaccination information missing or incorrectly transcribed into the Vaccination Management System;\n\nMis-information circulating in Social Media concerning those who resided in the Republic of Ireland but who received vaccinations in Northern Ireland and those Northern Ireland residents holding or travelling on an Irish Passport; and\n\nThe Helpline being inundated with non-International Travel Certification queries.\n\nIt should be noted that at this time the Covid Certification Scheme has only been registered with the UK Information Commissioner’s Office for the production of certificates to facilitate International Travel.\n\nThe NI Executive has not yet established a policy on Domestic Use of Covid vaccination information.","answerHtml":"The potential requirement to provide NI Citizens with certified proof of their vaccination status to facilitate International Travel was identified in April 2020. My officials tracked the development of the EU and WHO specification for such certificates whilst considering the technical infrastructure required to deliver a secure solution which would be interoperable with other UK systems and countries worldwide. Once the specification was finalised development work was commenced to deliver a system to provide a digital and non-digital solution for the production of, secure, trusted certificates by 19 July 2021.
In response to a unilateral decision by some destination countries to require evidence of vaccination against Covid-19 my Department diverted resources from the development of the Covid-19 Certification Scheme (CCS) to provide an interim solution for urgent International Travel. This was a manual solution to the immediate problem.
There was a large demand for certificates and priority was given to those travelling immediately to destinations that required a vaccination certificate to avoid compulsory 10 days quarantine. Other applicants were advised to use alternatives, such as PCR tests, where they existed to ensure they would be able to travel.
The interim CCS supplied 14,000 certificates over the operating period of 2 July to 23 July. A number of applications did not meet the published criteria and could not be taken forward.
The interim solution transitioned to the comprehensive CCS on 23 July. This uses a combination of NI Direct (Department of Finance) and Health and Social Care IT systems to, wherever possible, automatically verify an applicant’s identity, locate the relevant vaccination information and provide a trusted, digital certificate via an emailed PDF document or the mobile phone App – CovidCert NI. A helpline (0300 200 7814) is available for those unable to use the digital solution.
By 6 September 2021 the comprehensive CCS had delivered 79,267 certificates for those wishing to travel during August 2021 and a further 24,170 for those wishing to travel in September. Over 80% were delivered using automated processes for identity verification and matching with the vaccination records.
Both the interim and comprehensive solution have experienced challenges in supplying the requested information due to;
Providing incorrect identity documents;
Poor quality photographs of documents submitted;
Required information not supplied;
Requesting certificates for travel outside of the specified dates;
Fraudulent applications being made;
Vaccination information missing or incorrectly transcribed into the Vaccination Management System;
Mis-information circulating in Social Media concerning those who resided in the Republic of Ireland but who received vaccinations in Northern Ireland and those Northern Ireland residents holding or travelling on an Irish Passport; and
The Helpline being inundated with non-International Travel Certification queries.
It should be noted that at this time the Covid Certification Scheme has only been registered with the UK Information Commissioner’s Office for the production of certificates to facilitate International Travel.
The NI Executive has not yet established a policy on Domestic Use of Covid vaccination information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019253%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338827","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338827"}},{"id":"338480","reference":"AQW 19102/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-19","answerBy":"2021-06-04","answered":"2021-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she has sufficient resources to bring forward new affordable housing schemes funded by Financial Transactions Capital.","answerText":"I am committed to maximising my Department’s use of Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) to increase housing supply and to provide people and families with a greater range of housing options.\n\nMy Department approved an allocation of £145 million last year to Co-Ownership for the delivery of 4,000 much needed homes over four years. I announced an additional £13 million allocation [to Co-Ownership] to deliver a further 422 homes in January of this year.\n\nTo facilitate the development of new and innovative intermediate housing products, my Department recently published a revised definition of affordable housing. A wider range of products should support housing supply by providing alternatives to shared ownership and more choice to suit differing household needs and circumstances.\n\nIntermediate Rent is one such product in development, aimed at delivering a new supply of affordable, good quality, well-managed homes with longer tenancies. It can provide a better, more affordable rental solution for some, and act as a stepping stone into low-cost home ownership for others.\n\nAn Over 55s shared ownership product is also under consideration, which will support those who wish to downsize or move to more suitable homes to do so.\n\nA key part of my ambitious programme to deliver transformative change across housing is the development of a Housing Supply Strategy.\n\nI recently launched a Call for Evidence to inform the development of the draft Strategy. It includes questions about if and how we might better utilise public funding, such as FTC, more effectively to increase housing supply.","answerHtml":"I am committed to maximising my Department’s use of Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) to increase housing supply and to provide people and families with a greater range of housing options.
My Department approved an allocation of £145 million last year to Co-Ownership for the delivery of 4,000 much needed homes over four years. I announced an additional £13 million allocation [to Co-Ownership] to deliver a further 422 homes in January of this year.
To facilitate the development of new and innovative intermediate housing products, my Department recently published a revised definition of affordable housing. A wider range of products should support housing supply by providing alternatives to shared ownership and more choice to suit differing household needs and circumstances.
Intermediate Rent is one such product in development, aimed at delivering a new supply of affordable, good quality, well-managed homes with longer tenancies. It can provide a better, more affordable rental solution for some, and act as a stepping stone into low-cost home ownership for others.
An Over 55s shared ownership product is also under consideration, which will support those who wish to downsize or move to more suitable homes to do so.
A key part of my ambitious programme to deliver transformative change across housing is the development of a Housing Supply Strategy.
I recently launched a Call for Evidence to inform the development of the draft Strategy. It includes questions about if and how we might better utilise public funding, such as FTC, more effectively to increase housing supply.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019102%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338480","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338480"}},{"id":"338479","reference":"AQW 19101/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-19","answerBy":"2021-06-04","answered":"2021-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the Department for the Economy’s High Street Voucher Scheme will have any repercussive impact on the receipt of benefits.","answerText":"If a disregard is not included in the legislation for the High Street Voucher Scheme, the £100 High Street voucher will be treated as capital in the calculation of the recipient’s social security benefits.\n\nHowever, my officials are working with the Department for the Economy colleagues to finalise the position on this issue and it is anticipated that provision will be made in the regulations to allow for benefit disregard.","answerHtml":"If a disregard is not included in the legislation for the High Street Voucher Scheme, the £100 High Street voucher will be treated as capital in the calculation of the recipient’s social security benefits.
However, my officials are working with the Department for the Economy colleagues to finalise the position on this issue and it is anticipated that provision will be made in the regulations to allow for benefit disregard.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019101%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338479","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338479"}},{"id":"338478","reference":"AQW 19100/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-19","answerBy":"2021-06-04","answered":"2021-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what action she is taking to ensure people in receipt of Universal Credit are not faced with repercussion impacts when the £20 Covid uplift is awarded; and what action is being taken to provide that people in receipt of Pension Credit will avail of similar financial support.","answerText":"My Department is not aware of unintended consequences due to the Universal Credit £20 uplift. However, anyone with benefit entitlement that was close to the Benefit Cap level may not receive an increase in payments. This will apply if they are either not eligible for, or were already receiving, a Benefit Cap Welfare Mitigation payment. I intend to bring forward legislation to amend the eligibility criteria for Benefit Cap Welfare Mitigation Payments at the earliest opportunity.","answerHtml":"My Department is not aware of unintended consequences due to the Universal Credit £20 uplift. However, anyone with benefit entitlement that was close to the Benefit Cap level may not receive an increase in payments. This will apply if they are either not eligible for, or were already receiving, a Benefit Cap Welfare Mitigation payment. I intend to bring forward legislation to amend the eligibility criteria for Benefit Cap Welfare Mitigation Payments at the earliest opportunity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019100%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338478","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338478"}},{"id":"338477","reference":"AQW 19099/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-19","answerBy":"2021-06-04","answered":"2021-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what action she is taking to ensure two monthly salary payments in a single Universal Credit assessment period is recognised and does not penalise claimants; and when this system will be automated in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Following an enhancement to the Universal Credit legislation in November 2020, people who now receive two calendar monthly salary payments within one Universal Credit assessment period can request that one wage is allocated to another UC assessment period.\n\nThese new procedures ensure that people receive a more consistent award, benefit from any applicable work allowance and minimise any potential impact on childcare costs.","answerHtml":"Following an enhancement to the Universal Credit legislation in November 2020, people who now receive two calendar monthly salary payments within one Universal Credit assessment period can request that one wage is allocated to another UC assessment period.
These new procedures ensure that people receive a more consistent award, benefit from any applicable work allowance and minimise any potential impact on childcare costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019099%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338477","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338477"}},{"id":"338476","reference":"AQW 19098/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-19","answerBy":"2021-06-04","answered":"2021-06-02","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 are planned to be built in the Strangford constituency.","answerText":"I have been advised by the Housing Executive that there are currently 74 social housing units under construction.\n\nA total of 42 social housing units are programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2021/22 – 2023/24.\n\nProgrammed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons, for example, relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval.\n\nAdditional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-shelf properties.","answerHtml":"I have been advised by the Housing Executive that there are currently 74 social housing units under construction.
A total of 42 social housing units are programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2021/22 – 2023/24.
Programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons, for example, relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval.
Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-shelf properties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019098%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338476","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338476"}},{"id":"337945","reference":"AQW 18900/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-14","answerBy":"2021-06-01","answered":"2021-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for the rationale used to exclude year 11 from consideration for COVID-19 protection measures provided for Years 12, 13 and 14.","answerText":"My Department works closely with the Department of Health (DoH), the Education Authority (EA) and the Public Health Agency (PHA). This engagement has continued throughout the pandemic to maintain the education of children, to reduce the risk of outbreaks, and to respond when these occur.\n\nI accepted a proposal from the PHA to introduce Lateral Flow Device (LFD) testing in schools for pupils in Years 12-14 following the lifting of restrictions by the Executive. This added an additional mitigation measure in post-primary schools, thereby allowing them to further reduce the potential of infections by identifying cases at an early stage.\n\nAt the time, the Regulator had only cleared the use of LFD tests for people aged 16 and over. Therefore, in order to expedite the introduction of the additional mitigation, it was agreed that testing should be introduced to Years 12-14 initially. This excluded Year 11 pupils at the time of the introduction of the LFD due to it not being sanctioned for use on persons under the age of 16.\n\nThis roll out of testing took account of the views of a number of school principals across the educational sector via the Education Practitioners Group and the views of the various Trade Union bodies, as well as colleagues from the EA and the PHA.\n\nDiscussions are ongoing on the further potential roll out of testing, but any decisions will be based on the current medical and scientific advice available.","answerHtml":"My Department works closely with the Department of Health (DoH), the Education Authority (EA) and the Public Health Agency (PHA). This engagement has continued throughout the pandemic to maintain the education of children, to reduce the risk of outbreaks, and to respond when these occur.
I accepted a proposal from the PHA to introduce Lateral Flow Device (LFD) testing in schools for pupils in Years 12-14 following the lifting of restrictions by the Executive. This added an additional mitigation measure in post-primary schools, thereby allowing them to further reduce the potential of infections by identifying cases at an early stage.
At the time, the Regulator had only cleared the use of LFD tests for people aged 16 and over. Therefore, in order to expedite the introduction of the additional mitigation, it was agreed that testing should be introduced to Years 12-14 initially. This excluded Year 11 pupils at the time of the introduction of the LFD due to it not being sanctioned for use on persons under the age of 16.
This roll out of testing took account of the views of a number of school principals across the educational sector via the Education Practitioners Group and the views of the various Trade Union bodies, as well as colleagues from the EA and the PHA.
Discussions are ongoing on the further potential roll out of testing, but any decisions will be based on the current medical and scientific advice available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018900%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337945","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337945"}},{"id":"337944","reference":"AQW 18899/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-14","answerBy":"2021-06-01","answered":"2021-05-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, given the assertion neither he nor his Department have any management responsibility or legal control over school govenors, why the Education Authority requires governors to attend their training courses.","answerText":"Boards of Governors play an important role in supporting schools to ensure that pupils have every opportunity to develop to their full potential within a caring and stimulating learning environment. The Department and the Education Authority have different responsibilities. For instance the Education Authority provides governors with a range of resources and support, including training, to help them become more effective. Training is not mandatory for Governors, however it is expected that they would attend the following:\n\nTraining Course\tNumber / Category of governor required to attend\nThe Safeguarding Role of the Chairperson and Designated Governor\tChairperson and Designated Governor\nChild protection Awareness Training Level 1\tAll governors\nAn Introduction to Recruitment and Selection\tAt least one member of each board of governors who will sit on recruitment panels","answerHtml":"Boards of Governors play an important role in supporting schools to ensure that pupils have every opportunity to develop to their full potential within a caring and stimulating learning environment. The Department and the Education Authority have different responsibilities. For instance the Education Authority provides governors with a range of resources and support, including training, to help them become more effective. Training is not mandatory for Governors, however it is expected that they would attend the following:
| Training Course | Number / Category of governor required to attend |
| The Safeguarding Role of the Chairperson and Designated Governor | Chairperson and Designated Governor |
| Child protection Awareness Training Level 1 | All governors |
| An Introduction to Recruitment and Selection | At least one member of each board of governors who will sit on recruitment panels |
All Respite and Day Care Centres opened last July 2020 but with a limited capacity, this is to ensure the delivery of services is safe and in accordance with current IPC guidelines.
I very much want to see services restored to full capacity, therefore I have tasked the Public Health Agency to undertake a review of Adult Centres and Short Breaks to consider the Infection Prevention & Control guidelines in these settings, across all relevant programmes of care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018898%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337943","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337943"}},{"id":"337942","reference":"AQW 18897/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-14","answerBy":"2021-06-01","answered":"2021-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 16881/17-22, on what date he requested support from the Executive for a Carers Payment.","answerText":"I wrote to Executive colleagues on this subject on 4 March 2021 and have subsequently followed this up with a second memo dated 20 May.","answerHtml":"I wrote to Executive colleagues on this subject on 4 March 2021 and have subsequently followed this up with a second memo dated 20 May.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018897%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337942","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337942"}},{"id":"337690","reference":"AQW 18818/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-13","answerBy":"2021-05-28","answered":"2021-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) how will she ensure local councils and Translink provide safe bus stops across rural communities to prevent vulnerable people and children from having to stand on a 60mph roadside with no protection, lighting or timetable displayed; and (ii) whether her Department has discussed capital investment options to secure funding needed to improve rural bus stops to the same standard used in urban areas.","answerText":"When developing new roads or making improvements to existing roads my Department consults with Council, Translink and other stakeholders to make sure that the needs of all road users including the needs of those using public transport are fully integrated into the design. Where appropriate street lighting, footways and bus lay-bys can be incorporated as part of the road improvement.\n\nWhen there is an opportunity to deploy new shelters or if Translink receive requests from passengers or local representatives, they will assess the passenger usage along with a number of other factors including the usage from vulnerable passengers and this information will help inform if the stop should be upgraded to a shelter with lighting. They will then work with the local stakeholders to provide the shelter and manage the maintenance of them. Translink also remains open to working with, and to receive requests from, local communities to improve bus stops/shelters where possible.\n\nMy Department works closely with Translink on capital planning and securing capital funding for bus shelters across the North. This year, I have provided funding of £321,000 to Translink for the refurbishment and erection of new bus shelters. In addition, funding is also available within the 'Local Transport and Safety Measures' budget to improve rural bus stops, where a need has been identified by Translink in conjunction with local communities.","answerHtml":"When developing new roads or making improvements to existing roads my Department consults with Council, Translink and other stakeholders to make sure that the needs of all road users including the needs of those using public transport are fully integrated into the design. Where appropriate street lighting, footways and bus lay-bys can be incorporated as part of the road improvement.
When there is an opportunity to deploy new shelters or if Translink receive requests from passengers or local representatives, they will assess the passenger usage along with a number of other factors including the usage from vulnerable passengers and this information will help inform if the stop should be upgraded to a shelter with lighting. They will then work with the local stakeholders to provide the shelter and manage the maintenance of them. Translink also remains open to working with, and to receive requests from, local communities to improve bus stops/shelters where possible.
My Department works closely with Translink on capital planning and securing capital funding for bus shelters across the North. This year, I have provided funding of £321,000 to Translink for the refurbishment and erection of new bus shelters. In addition, funding is also available within the 'Local Transport and Safety Measures' budget to improve rural bus stops, where a need has been identified by Translink in conjunction with local communities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018818%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337690","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337690"}},{"id":"337689","reference":"AQW 18817/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-13","answerBy":"2021-05-28","answered":"2021-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in relation to when Covid restrictions relax to permit people to meet indoors, whether she will change the rules for the Strangford Ferry to permit school children and other foot passengers to use the passenger shelter on each of the ferries.","answerText":"School children and other foot passengers are already allowed to use the passenger compartments on both ferries, but in line with guidance they are expected to social distance.\n\nI can assure you that our approach will continue to be reviewed as the Covid-19 regulations and guidance are updated.","answerHtml":"School children and other foot passengers are already allowed to use the passenger compartments on both ferries, but in line with guidance they are expected to social distance.
I can assure you that our approach will continue to be reviewed as the Covid-19 regulations and guidance are updated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018817%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337689","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337689"}},{"id":"337688","reference":"AQW 18816/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-13","answerBy":"2021-05-28","answered":"2021-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions she is taking to ensure all Departments that procure or grant funds to the Community and Voluntary sector include Full Cost Recovery to ensure that all charities can operate in a sustainable manner and are treated the same as commercial suppliers.","answerText":"I recognise the legitimacy of organisations in the Voluntary and Community sector seeking fair funding, with Full Cost Recovery contributing to the sustainability of organisations in the sector.\n\nTreasury Guidance on Full Cost Recovery has been made available across government departments and the Voluntary and Community Sector. I am aware however of ongoing challenges and inconsistencies in the application of the principles of Full Cost Recovery.\n\nAs we move into recovery and renewal, I am committed to working across the Executive to ensure a shared understanding and consistent application of these principles across government.\n\nThe Joint Forum, which includes representatives from government departments and the Voluntary and Community Sector, continues to engage to progress key issues for the sector, including Full Cost Recovery.\n\nI intend to respond formally to the Manifesto for Change put forward by NICVA recently, to indicate how I can advocate across government for the change that the Sector needs.","answerHtml":"I recognise the legitimacy of organisations in the Voluntary and Community sector seeking fair funding, with Full Cost Recovery contributing to the sustainability of organisations in the sector.
Treasury Guidance on Full Cost Recovery has been made available across government departments and the Voluntary and Community Sector. I am aware however of ongoing challenges and inconsistencies in the application of the principles of Full Cost Recovery.
As we move into recovery and renewal, I am committed to working across the Executive to ensure a shared understanding and consistent application of these principles across government.
The Joint Forum, which includes representatives from government departments and the Voluntary and Community Sector, continues to engage to progress key issues for the sector, including Full Cost Recovery.
I intend to respond formally to the Manifesto for Change put forward by NICVA recently, to indicate how I can advocate across government for the change that the Sector needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018816%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337688","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337688"}},{"id":"337687","reference":"AQW 18815/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-13","answerBy":"2021-05-28","answered":"2021-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, given the number of appellants waiting more than 52 weeks for an appeal to be heard, whether she will extend supplementary payment to 24 months for those appealing a reduced Personal Independence Payment award.","answerText":"Several of the existing welfare mitigation payment schemes include a maximum entitlement period of 12 months. This is in accordance with the recommendations of the Welfare Reform Mitigations Working Group.\n\nThe twelve month limit applies to payments for people who are affected by:\n\nA loss of entitlement to carer’s benefits\n\nA loss of a disability premium(s)\n\nThe time limiting of contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance\n\nAn award of Personal Independence Payment at a rate of at least £10 per week less than the previous award of Disability Living Allowance.\n\nThe Welfare Mitigation schemes were due to end on 31 March 2020 however the Executive committed to extending the current schemes beyond this date in the New Decade, New Approach Deal. The extension of the existing welfare mitigation schemes ensures that people continue to receive mitigation payments if they are eligible under the current policy. However, the extension does not provide for the maximum period of entitlement of 12 months to be extended. There are currently no plans to change this policy for any of the affected mitigation schemes","answerHtml":"Several of the existing welfare mitigation payment schemes include a maximum entitlement period of 12 months. This is in accordance with the recommendations of the Welfare Reform Mitigations Working Group.
The twelve month limit applies to payments for people who are affected by:
A loss of entitlement to carer’s benefits
A loss of a disability premium(s)
The time limiting of contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance
An award of Personal Independence Payment at a rate of at least £10 per week less than the previous award of Disability Living Allowance.
The Welfare Mitigation schemes were due to end on 31 March 2020 however the Executive committed to extending the current schemes beyond this date in the New Decade, New Approach Deal. The extension of the existing welfare mitigation schemes ensures that people continue to receive mitigation payments if they are eligible under the current policy. However, the extension does not provide for the maximum period of entitlement of 12 months to be extended. There are currently no plans to change this policy for any of the affected mitigation schemes
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018815%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337687","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337687"}},{"id":"337771","reference":"AQO 2079/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-13","answerBy":"2021-05-24","answered":"2021-05-24","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what action she is taking to rebalance her resource budget towards active travel in 2021-22.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I would hope that all Members are well aware that my Department's resource budget presents an ongoing challenge for the delivery of its statutory duties. This financial year continues to be very challenging. When inflationary pay and price pressures are taken into account, there is, effectively, a real-terms cut. Members may also be aware that the increase of only 3% on the 2020-21 opening position has been attributed specifically to Northern Ireland Water. That means that there is little to no flexibility in my resource funding to rebalance towards anything other than to focus on delivering statutory and other essential duties. However, I am committed to investing in active travel, as we have to address the issues of how we travel if we are to deal with the challenges that we face in respect of health and well-being in the climate emergency. Last year, I announced a £20 million capital blue-green infrastructure fund, and I am committed to delivering a similar level of capital funding this year. In addition to that, I am looking at opportunities, within the constraints with which I am operating, to fund activities from the resource budget."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Minister, I agree that it is part of your essential duties to consider climate change, and one of the ways that we can do that is through active travel. You mentioned the £20 million capital, but that is significantly less than 5% of your capital budget. How can we hope to move forward a blue-green change to the way that we travel if it is not funded appropriately? Can you increase the funding available for the blue-green fund through other capital options?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"There is a responsibility on all of us, as Ministers and as citizens in our society, to play our part in climate action. I would like to do so much more, but I have to operate within the funding envelope that I have been given. I remain committed to doing what I can within those financial constraints when it comes to climate action. That is why my intention is to roll on the £20 million blue-green fund. As I said, I am working through difficult scenarios on the resource side with my officials to see what we may be able to do there. The reality is that, every time I go to do something more or new, I have to look at stopping something that the Department is already carrying out. As Members will know, the role of my Department is so operational and impacts on everybody's life that that throws up very difficult scenarios. It is a difficult balancing act, but I am committed to doing what I can. That has been demonstrated in the blue-green fund, and I hope that councils have continued to develop their proposals so that I will be in a position to financially support many more projects in this financial year."},{"speaker":"Mr McGuigan","text":"I acknowledge the ambition that the Minister has shown. She will be aware that her Department has recently taken some criticism about slow progress on active travel measures, particularly when it comes to progressing cycling-only infrastructure. The Minister outlined the economic, environmental and health benefits of active travel. Is she considering introducing an active travel Bill, which would help put active travel on a statutory footing?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"That is something that I was keen to do, and, when I took up post, I asked officials to look into it. The reality now is that, given the impact that the pandemic has had on the work of the Department, combined with the limited time left in this mandate, it will not be possible to pass primary legislation. I have asked officials to look at changing the culture in my Department. It is also about changing the policy focus and changing the areas that we invest in. We are trying to do that work and advance all that change where we can, but I hope that my successor, whoever that will be, will continue in that vein and will give positive consideration to an active travel Bill, because it would be hugely beneficial."},{"speaker":"Mr McNulty","text":"It is one thing getting your picture taken pointing at potholes; it is another matter altogether to get the Sinn Féin Finance Minister to pony up to pay for their repair. Everyone knows that the Sinn Féin Minister holds the purse strings. With your resource budget effectively being a real-terms cut to the infrastructure budget, you have a difficult job balancing competing priorities. Have you asked the Sinn Féin Finance Minister for more money for those priorities and for the repair of potholes?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"As I outlined in a previous response, the Department's resource outcome is disappointing. That is there for all to see. The Budget outcome is such that not all of even our most high priority or inescapable pressures have been met by a significant margin, and, following successive reducing budgets, the Department has emphasised the extent to which further budget reductions cannot be found without having an impact on public services, including public transport and road maintenance. I have made the Finance Minister and Executive colleagues aware of the pressures. While I bid for additional money on the Department's £62 million of COVID pressures, I received an allocation of £20 million. Should the remaining pressures not be met in-year, that is likely to impact on the essential services that the Department delivers. However, I will continue to stress the real pressures for our key services and will bid in-year, as I did last year, to improve our services for citizens."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202079%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337771","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-05-24&docID=338423#AQO%202079/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337771"}},{"id":"337580","reference":"AQW 18760/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-12","answerBy":"2021-05-27","answered":"2021-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission (i) to outline the rationale used to decide that Members must pay for constituency staff training in advance; (ii) whether they will provide a copy of the policy confirming when repayment of legitimate expenses is released; and (iii) how many times repayments for legitimate expenses have not been completed within Commission targets.","answerText":"For part (i), the wording applied by the Independent Financial Review Panel for paragraph 40 (2) of the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2016 requires that “Category 2 costs [i.e. including staff training costs] (save for staff travel costs) must be paid by the member and may then be recovered by the member from the Commission.” The Commission did not seek to amend this provision when it amended the terms and conditions of employment of Members’ staff in August 2020.\n\nFor part (ii), a properly vouched claim that is received by 1 pm on Tuesday of week 1, will usually be paid on Thursday of week 1 and a claim received on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday of week 1 or Monday or before 1 pm on Tuesday of week 2, will be paid on Thursday of week 2.\n\nFor part (iii), for the 2020-21 financial year, the Commission processed 3,531 claims from Members with 3,255 (92.2%) paid within 10 days from the date of receipt.","answerHtml":"For part (i), the wording applied by the Independent Financial Review Panel for paragraph 40 (2) of the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2016 requires that “Category 2 costs [i.e. including staff training costs] (save for staff travel costs) must be paid by the member and may then be recovered by the member from the Commission.” The Commission did not seek to amend this provision when it amended the terms and conditions of employment of Members’ staff in August 2020.
For part (ii), a properly vouched claim that is received by 1 pm on Tuesday of week 1, will usually be paid on Thursday of week 1 and a claim received on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday of week 1 or Monday or before 1 pm on Tuesday of week 2, will be paid on Thursday of week 2.
For part (iii), for the 2020-21 financial year, the Commission processed 3,531 claims from Members with 3,255 (92.2%) paid within 10 days from the date of receipt.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018760%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337580","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337580"}},{"id":"337579","reference":"AQW 18759/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-12","answerBy":"2021-05-27","answered":"2021-05-25","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 (i) what action he has taken to enable the free movement of people who use assistance dogs from 1 July 2021; and (ii) what Equality Impact Assessment has been done to ensure the rights of people with disabilities who use assistance dogs are not going to be impacted by a lack of progress in this matter.","answerText":"The European Union (EU) Pet Travel Regulation (Regulation (EU) 576/2013), which details the documentary, health and compliance check requirements for the travel of pet dogs, including assistance and working dogs, between or into European Union Member States, continues to apply in Northern Ireland (NI), following the end of the transition phase. This is as a result of the Withdrawal Agreement and the Northern Ireland Protocol.\n\nI am acutely aware of the impact of what I consider to be completely unnecessary new measures on those travelling within the United Kingdom (UK). I am particularly concerned about the significant implications for guide dog users, those travelling with pets to attend shows and exhibitions, hobby breeders, and the potential impact on tourism for those wishing to holiday in NI or return to NI from Great Britain (GB) accompanied by their pets.\n\nI have therefore written to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP, and to the European Commission, highlighting these issues, and particularly the entirely unjustified requirements for rabies vaccination and tapeworm treatment, given that both the UK and the Republic of Ireland (RoI) are considered free from both diseases.\n\nFurthermore, I have requested that urgent consideration be given to the introduction of a ‘Common Travel Area’ for pets travelling between GB, NI and the RoI. A joint UK/NI/RoI working group has now been established to consider where flexibilities can be achieved, and I can advise that this group has met on a number of occasions and will continue to engage on these issues.\n\nThis matter has also now been escalated by the UK Government to the European Commission seeking urgent resolution. The Commission has responded and technical discussions are ongoing. In the interim, I will continue engagement with Ministerial colleagues to urgently seek derogations where possible from these unnecessary additional requirements.\n\nI have also confirmed, after exploring potential flexibilities, and considering pet owners have not had time to familiarise themselves with the new rules, that DAERA would delay the introduction of any checks on compliance with the EU rules on pet travel from GB to NI until 1 July 2021. As a result, there will be no routine checks on travellers’ compliance, until then.\n\nMy Department is currently considering the next steps with regards this issue. The present position is set out in the Department’s Compliance protocol, available https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/compliance-protocol-sanitary-phytosanitary-controls-and-point-entry-marketing-standards-checks-gb-ni. It is my hope, however, that from the discussions and processes outlined above, sensible and pragmatic solutions can be found before then.\n\nAny progress made or flexibilities agreed in respect of the additional requirements, along with any changes to the current enforcement approach will be published on the DAERA website at https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets, on the DAERA Frequently Asked Questions document https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/qas-pet-travel-1-january-2021 and communicated widely through our usual Departmental media channels.\n\nAn equality screening exercise was carried out by DARD in 2014 regarding changes to the EU Pet Travel Scheme and the proposed amendment of the Non-Commercial Movement of Pet Animals (NI) Order 2011. This screening exercise found that there would be no impact on equality of opportunity and therefore an Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) was deemed to be unnecessary.\n\nAs outlined, my Department is currently considering the next steps with regards this matter in considering that the EU now defines GB as a third country for the purposes of pet travel. I can assure you that all relevant equality-screening exercises will be carried out, as necessary, with regards to enforcement of the requirements as detailed above. Should the equality screening exercise deem that an EQIA is necessary it will be carried out as required.","answerHtml":"The European Union (EU) Pet Travel Regulation (Regulation (EU) 576/2013), which details the documentary, health and compliance check requirements for the travel of pet dogs, including assistance and working dogs, between or into European Union Member States, continues to apply in Northern Ireland (NI), following the end of the transition phase. This is as a result of the Withdrawal Agreement and the Northern Ireland Protocol.
I am acutely aware of the impact of what I consider to be completely unnecessary new measures on those travelling within the United Kingdom (UK). I am particularly concerned about the significant implications for guide dog users, those travelling with pets to attend shows and exhibitions, hobby breeders, and the potential impact on tourism for those wishing to holiday in NI or return to NI from Great Britain (GB) accompanied by their pets.
I have therefore written to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP, and to the European Commission, highlighting these issues, and particularly the entirely unjustified requirements for rabies vaccination and tapeworm treatment, given that both the UK and the Republic of Ireland (RoI) are considered free from both diseases.
Furthermore, I have requested that urgent consideration be given to the introduction of a ‘Common Travel Area’ for pets travelling between GB, NI and the RoI. A joint UK/NI/RoI working group has now been established to consider where flexibilities can be achieved, and I can advise that this group has met on a number of occasions and will continue to engage on these issues.
This matter has also now been escalated by the UK Government to the European Commission seeking urgent resolution. The Commission has responded and technical discussions are ongoing. In the interim, I will continue engagement with Ministerial colleagues to urgently seek derogations where possible from these unnecessary additional requirements.
I have also confirmed, after exploring potential flexibilities, and considering pet owners have not had time to familiarise themselves with the new rules, that DAERA would delay the introduction of any checks on compliance with the EU rules on pet travel from GB to NI until 1 July 2021. As a result, there will be no routine checks on travellers’ compliance, until then.
My Department is currently considering the next steps with regards this issue. The present position is set out in the Department’s Compliance protocol, available https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/compliance-protocol-sanitary-phytosanitary-controls-and-point-entry-marketing-standards-checks-gb-ni. It is my hope, however, that from the discussions and processes outlined above, sensible and pragmatic solutions can be found before then.
Any progress made or flexibilities agreed in respect of the additional requirements, along with any changes to the current enforcement approach will be published on the DAERA website at https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets, on the DAERA Frequently Asked Questions document https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/qas-pet-travel-1-january-2021 and communicated widely through our usual Departmental media channels.
An equality screening exercise was carried out by DARD in 2014 regarding changes to the EU Pet Travel Scheme and the proposed amendment of the Non-Commercial Movement of Pet Animals (NI) Order 2011. This screening exercise found that there would be no impact on equality of opportunity and therefore an Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) was deemed to be unnecessary.
As outlined, my Department is currently considering the next steps with regards this matter in considering that the EU now defines GB as a third country for the purposes of pet travel. I can assure you that all relevant equality-screening exercises will be carried out, as necessary, with regards to enforcement of the requirements as detailed above. Should the equality screening exercise deem that an EQIA is necessary it will be carried out as required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018759%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337579","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337579"}},{"id":"337578","reference":"AQW 18758/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-12","answerBy":"2021-05-27","answered":"2021-06-16","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 (i) what; and (ii) where quarantine facilities will be provided for pets arriving into NI that do not comply with the Travelling with Pets criteria from 1 July 2021; (iii) what animal welfare standards are used to measure the effectiveness of any quarantine facility; and (iv) what will be the cost to pet owners for their pet while it is in quarantine.","answerText":"Inspection and temporary holding facilities are present at Larne Port, Belfast Port, Belfast International Airport and Belfast City Airport. Any animals requiring official quarantine are currently held at Breeny Boarding and Quarantine Kennels, 35 Lisnabreeny Road, Belfast, BT6 9SD. These kennels are commercially operated and function as a DAERA approved quarantine and boarding facility.\n\nThe Rabies (Importation of Dogs, Cats and other Mammals) Order 1977 (as amended) provides that no premises shall be used as quarantine facilities, unless authorised by the Department. The Departmental authorisation would contain conditions to ensure rabies control and also minimum welfare standards such as:\n\nAnimal units must be designed and constructed so as to receive a reasonable amount of daylight.\n\nArtificial lighting must be sufficient to allow the proper cleansing of units and the safe handling of animals at all times.\n\nSuitable provision must be made in all buildings housing animals to allow an adequate and constant supply of fresh air, heating and to ensure fresh drinking water is available.\n\nThere is no cost to pet owners for the initial inspection and temporary holding facilities operated by DAERA at Northern Ireland (NI) points of entry. The costs incurred by pet owners subsequently required to use Breeny Boarding Quarantine Kennels would be a private matter between the pet owners and the quarantine premises. The cost would also be dependent on the duration of the quarantine and size of animal. Animals would ordinarily have to stay until the correct documentation / evidence of compliance were produced, or for a maximum of three months to be compliant. Breeny’s current standard boarding rates are £18 per day for a dog and £10 per day for a cat.\n\nI announced earlier this year that my Department would not introduce checks on these requirements until 1 July 2021, however, in order to provide much needed clarity, I have taken the decision to further delay routine pet travel checks for citizens travelling from GB to NI with their pets until at least 1 October. This is to allow a further period for the ongoing UKG/EU discussions, where pet travel is under consideration, to provide direction on both the requirements necessary and any potential flexibilities. This delay will also allow time for my Department to further publicise, and the public to prepare for, the pet travel conditions that are ultimately agreed.\n\nWhilst the Department will not be conducting routine checks during this period, it is important to note that my officials reserve the right to carry out checks if they suspect illegal activity or have welfare concerns.\n\nIt is my hope however that sensible and pragmatic solutions can be found and I will continue engagement with Ministerial colleagues to urgently seek derogations where possible from these unnecessary additional requirements.\n\nAny progress made or flexibilities agreed in respect of the additional requirements, along with any changes to the current enforcement approach will be published on the DAERA website https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets and on the DAERA Frequently Asked Questions document https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/qas-pet-travel-1-january-2021 and communicated widely through our usual Departmental media channels.","answerHtml":"Inspection and temporary holding facilities are present at Larne Port, Belfast Port, Belfast International Airport and Belfast City Airport. Any animals requiring official quarantine are currently held at Breeny Boarding and Quarantine Kennels, 35 Lisnabreeny Road, Belfast, BT6 9SD. These kennels are commercially operated and function as a DAERA approved quarantine and boarding facility.
The Rabies (Importation of Dogs, Cats and other Mammals) Order 1977 (as amended) provides that no premises shall be used as quarantine facilities, unless authorised by the Department. The Departmental authorisation would contain conditions to ensure rabies control and also minimum welfare standards such as:
Animal units must be designed and constructed so as to receive a reasonable amount of daylight.
Artificial lighting must be sufficient to allow the proper cleansing of units and the safe handling of animals at all times.
Suitable provision must be made in all buildings housing animals to allow an adequate and constant supply of fresh air, heating and to ensure fresh drinking water is available.
There is no cost to pet owners for the initial inspection and temporary holding facilities operated by DAERA at Northern Ireland (NI) points of entry. The costs incurred by pet owners subsequently required to use Breeny Boarding Quarantine Kennels would be a private matter between the pet owners and the quarantine premises. The cost would also be dependent on the duration of the quarantine and size of animal. Animals would ordinarily have to stay until the correct documentation / evidence of compliance were produced, or for a maximum of three months to be compliant. Breeny’s current standard boarding rates are £18 per day for a dog and £10 per day for a cat.
I announced earlier this year that my Department would not introduce checks on these requirements until 1 July 2021, however, in order to provide much needed clarity, I have taken the decision to further delay routine pet travel checks for citizens travelling from GB to NI with their pets until at least 1 October. This is to allow a further period for the ongoing UKG/EU discussions, where pet travel is under consideration, to provide direction on both the requirements necessary and any potential flexibilities. This delay will also allow time for my Department to further publicise, and the public to prepare for, the pet travel conditions that are ultimately agreed.
Whilst the Department will not be conducting routine checks during this period, it is important to note that my officials reserve the right to carry out checks if they suspect illegal activity or have welfare concerns.
It is my hope however that sensible and pragmatic solutions can be found and I will continue engagement with Ministerial colleagues to urgently seek derogations where possible from these unnecessary additional requirements.
Any progress made or flexibilities agreed in respect of the additional requirements, along with any changes to the current enforcement approach will be published on the DAERA website https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets and on the DAERA Frequently Asked Questions document https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/qas-pet-travel-1-january-2021 and communicated widely through our usual Departmental media channels.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018758%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337578","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337578"}},{"id":"337577","reference":"AQW 18757/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-12","answerBy":"2021-05-27","answered":"2021-05-24","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 when the Travelling with Pets section of his Department's website will be updated to ensure all pet owners travelling to and from GB are aware of the requirements needed to prevent their pet from being quarantined when they return to NI.","answerText":"The information on the ‘Travelling with Pets’ section of the DAERA website has been reviewed and updated several times in recent months to reflect the developments regarding the requirements and the commencement date for checks in relation to pet travel between Great Britain (GB) and Northern Ireland (NI). The most recent of these updates was made on 11 May 2021.\n\nThe ‘Travelling with Pets’ section fully outlines all the European Union (EU)’s pet travel requirements for pet owners with which compliance is necessary to prevent their pet from being quarantined when they return to NI. The ‘Q&As for Pet Travel from 1 January 2021’ section which is also regularly updated, most recently 17 May 2021, is available https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/qas-pet-travel-1-january-2021\n\nMy Department is currently considering the next steps with regards to any enforcement of compliance with the EU’s requirements for pet travel from GB to NI from 1 July, 2021. The present position is set out in the Department’s Compliance protocol, available\n\nhttps://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/compliance-protocol-sanitary-phytosanitary-controls-and-point-entry-marketing-standards-checks-gb-ni. It is my hope however, that sensible and pragmatic solutions can be found before then. In addition, I am continuing to engage with Ministerial colleagues to urgently seek derogations where possible from the unnecessary additional requirements.\n\nMy officials will continue to update the DAERA website as the situation develops regarding flexibilities agreed and/or changes to the current enforcement approach. I can assure you that any updates to the DAERA website will allow sufficient time for pet owners to prepare their pets appropriately for travel, in conjunction with their vet. Updates will also be communicated widely through our usual Departmental media channels.","answerHtml":"The information on the ‘Travelling with Pets’ section of the DAERA website has been reviewed and updated several times in recent months to reflect the developments regarding the requirements and the commencement date for checks in relation to pet travel between Great Britain (GB) and Northern Ireland (NI). The most recent of these updates was made on 11 May 2021.
The ‘Travelling with Pets’ section fully outlines all the European Union (EU)’s pet travel requirements for pet owners with which compliance is necessary to prevent their pet from being quarantined when they return to NI. The ‘Q&As for Pet Travel from 1 January 2021’ section which is also regularly updated, most recently 17 May 2021, is available https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/qas-pet-travel-1-january-2021
My Department is currently considering the next steps with regards to any enforcement of compliance with the EU’s requirements for pet travel from GB to NI from 1 July, 2021. The present position is set out in the Department’s Compliance protocol, available
https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/compliance-protocol-sanitary-phytosanitary-controls-and-point-entry-marketing-standards-checks-gb-ni. It is my hope however, that sensible and pragmatic solutions can be found before then. In addition, I am continuing to engage with Ministerial colleagues to urgently seek derogations where possible from the unnecessary additional requirements.
My officials will continue to update the DAERA website as the situation develops regarding flexibilities agreed and/or changes to the current enforcement approach. I can assure you that any updates to the DAERA website will allow sufficient time for pet owners to prepare their pets appropriately for travel, in conjunction with their vet. Updates will also be communicated widely through our usual Departmental media channels.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018757%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337577","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337577"}},{"id":"337101","reference":"AQW 18610/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-10","answerBy":"2021-05-18","answered":"2021-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 17477/17-22, when she will bring forward legislation that will enable councillors and council staff to be able to meet remotely and work from home in line with Executive’s Covid-19 guidelines.","answerText":"Following the Executive's agreement to my proposal to bring forward a Bill to extend the legislation to allow council meetings to be held remotely, I can confirm that the Bill is in the process of being drafted and that my Department is working to bring forward this legislation as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"Following the Executive's agreement to my proposal to bring forward a Bill to extend the legislation to allow council meetings to be held remotely, I can confirm that the Bill is in the process of being drafted and that my Department is working to bring forward this legislation as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018610%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337101","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337101"}},{"id":"337100","reference":"AQW 18609/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-10","answerBy":"2021-05-25","answered":"2021-05-17","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 she has met with Queen's University Belfast and Ulster Ulster to review entry level qualifications to take account of the disruption due to COVID-19.","answerText":"No, I have not met with the Higher Education Institutions to review their entry level requirements.\n\nAs autonomous bodies, universities are responsible for their own policies and procedures on admissions.","answerHtml":"No, I have not met with the Higher Education Institutions to review their entry level requirements.
As autonomous bodies, universities are responsible for their own policies and procedures on admissions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018609%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337100","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337100"}},{"id":"337099","reference":"AQW 18608/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-10","answerBy":"2021-05-25","answered":"2021-05-13","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 she has any plans to reduce university fees in Northern Ireland for the 2021/22 academic year to encourage young people to attend higher education at a time when they are unable to supplement income through employment in the service and hospitality sector.","answerText":"I have no plans to amend university fees for the 2021/22 academic year.\n\nHowever, my Department delivers financial support to eligible Northern Ireland students through Student Finance NI in the form of maintenance loans and maintenance grants as a contribution towards students’ living costs during the academic year.\n\nProspective students should ensure that they look online at www.studentfinanceni.co.uk for all the financial assistance to which they may be entitled.\n\nStudents at Northern Ireland’s universities who find themselves in financial hardship may also be eligible to receive an award from the Support Funds made available by the Department, and managed by the higher education institutions.","answerHtml":"I have no plans to amend university fees for the 2021/22 academic year.
However, my Department delivers financial support to eligible Northern Ireland students through Student Finance NI in the form of maintenance loans and maintenance grants as a contribution towards students’ living costs during the academic year.
Prospective students should ensure that they look online at www.studentfinanceni.co.uk for all the financial assistance to which they may be entitled.
Students at Northern Ireland’s universities who find themselves in financial hardship may also be eligible to receive an award from the Support Funds made available by the Department, and managed by the higher education institutions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018608%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337099","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337099"}},{"id":"337098","reference":"AQW 18607/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-10","answerBy":"2021-05-25","answered":"2021-05-19","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 confirm what actions she is taking to provide increased university and further education places for students leaving post primary schools in 2021, to ensure young people, whose education has been disrupted by COVID-19, have the opportunity to progress in education.","answerText":"Higher Education\n\nAs noted in my Economic Recovery Action Plan, increases to higher education undergraduate places were introduced in 2020-21 and these places will be funded for two further academic years.\n\nFE Capital Projects\n\nMy Department is continuing its investment in the Further Education (FE) estate to deliver modern, efficient, fit for purpose campuses that are welcoming, comfortable, healthy, neutral and vibrant places to learn and innovate.\n\nIn 2020, two major capital projects to build new campuses were completed in Banbridge and Armagh with a further new campus, in Enniskillen, being completed last month. These three buildings represent an investment of approximately £80million and, although they do not increase the capacity of the estate, it is hoped that sector wide marketing and promotional campaigns undertaken over the coming months will encourage an increased number of students leaving post primary schools in 2021 to avail of the state of the art, accessible facilities provided.\n\nIn addition these new campuses will offer significantly improved student facilities and support infrastructure, providing a greatly enhanced curriculum offering utilising the latest technology and equipment.\n\nLearner Numbers\n\nOver recent years FE colleges have faced a number of factors including a “demographic dip” in 16-19 year olds, improving school exam performance and most recently the impact of the Covid 19 pandemic, which have combined to reduce learner numbers in colleges by 14.5% from 82,818 in 2015/16 to 70,847.\n\nThe resulting availability of capacity within new state of the art accommodation equipped to industry standards means that colleges are particularly well placed to accommodate any students who have found their education disrupted by the recent pandemic and to provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to progress to employment or higher education.\n\nMarketing the FE Sector\n\nIn order to raise public awareness of these opportunities available through Further Education, DfE has now commissioned the six colleges to work together to create a collective identity for the sector and to develop an annual campaign which will focus specifically on promoting the unique product offering for full time FE and HE provision.","answerHtml":"Higher Education
As noted in my Economic Recovery Action Plan, increases to higher education undergraduate places were introduced in 2020-21 and these places will be funded for two further academic years.
FE Capital Projects
My Department is continuing its investment in the Further Education (FE) estate to deliver modern, efficient, fit for purpose campuses that are welcoming, comfortable, healthy, neutral and vibrant places to learn and innovate.
In 2020, two major capital projects to build new campuses were completed in Banbridge and Armagh with a further new campus, in Enniskillen, being completed last month. These three buildings represent an investment of approximately £80million and, although they do not increase the capacity of the estate, it is hoped that sector wide marketing and promotional campaigns undertaken over the coming months will encourage an increased number of students leaving post primary schools in 2021 to avail of the state of the art, accessible facilities provided.
In addition these new campuses will offer significantly improved student facilities and support infrastructure, providing a greatly enhanced curriculum offering utilising the latest technology and equipment.
Learner Numbers
Over recent years FE colleges have faced a number of factors including a “demographic dip” in 16-19 year olds, improving school exam performance and most recently the impact of the Covid 19 pandemic, which have combined to reduce learner numbers in colleges by 14.5% from 82,818 in 2015/16 to 70,847.
The resulting availability of capacity within new state of the art accommodation equipped to industry standards means that colleges are particularly well placed to accommodate any students who have found their education disrupted by the recent pandemic and to provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to progress to employment or higher education.
Marketing the FE Sector
In order to raise public awareness of these opportunities available through Further Education, DfE has now commissioned the six colleges to work together to create a collective identity for the sector and to develop an annual campaign which will focus specifically on promoting the unique product offering for full time FE and HE provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018607%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337098","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337098"}},{"id":"337097","reference":"AQW 18606/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-10","answerBy":"2021-05-25","answered":"2021-05-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when she will amend departmental policy to enable regeneration funding for rural towns with a population over 2500, such as Portaferry.","answerText":"I have initiated discussions with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Department for Infrastructure, who also have a role, on developing a more collaborative approach to rural regeneration.","answerHtml":"I have initiated discussions with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Department for Infrastructure, who also have a role, on developing a more collaborative approach to rural regeneration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018606%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337097","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337097"}},{"id":"336578","reference":"AQW 18399/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-05","answerBy":"2021-05-20","answered":"2021-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the process his Department will undertake to remove a governor of a controlled school if that governor is found to be abusing their position by bullying staff, not declaring conflicts of interest and wilfully disrupting both the operation of the board and staff team.","answerText":"Any complaint about a governor should in the first instance be raised with the Board of Governors.\n\nResponsibility for taking decisions on school based matters (including complaints) rests with the Board of Governors, unless there has been a failure on the part of the Board of Governors to comply with some requirement in education legislation. Investigating and responding to complaints about schools is the responsibility of each school’s governing body.\n\nIf the complaints procedure becomes exhausted, there is a right to refer the matter to the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman. The Ombudsman will, however, will only consider a case once the school’s internal complaints process has been fully exhausted.\n\nThe schools’ Scheme of Management will have provision for the declaration of pecuniary interests by governors where they should disclose openly the nature of their interest as soon as practicable after the commencement of a meeting. They shall withdraw from the meeting during consideration or discussion of that matter and any vote on any question related to that matter.\n\nGovernors are expected to work together to fulfil the Board of Governors statutory functions in relation to the school. The Board of Governors is accountable for ensuring that its decisions support the best interests of the school and its pupils.\n\nIt must also ensure that its decisions are consistent with the principles of corporate and collective responsibility as noted in the Governor Guide. This notes that the primary purpose of the school governor, acting collectively as a member of the Board of Governors, is to ensure that the school is properly managed and delivers high quality education for all its pupils.\n\nApart from the school Principal or elected teacher governor, a governor ceases to be a board member if they: subsequently become an employee of any school for which the board of governors is appointed, is subsequently convicted of an offence and sentenced by a court or subsequently become bankrupt or the subject of a Bankruptcy Restrictions Order.\n\nA member of the board shall be considered to have resigned their membership and shall cease to be a member where - there is an absence from three consecutive meetings, or for six months consecutively, whichever is the greater period, unless the failure to attend was occasioned by illness or other unavoidable cause.","answerHtml":"Any complaint about a governor should in the first instance be raised with the Board of Governors.
Responsibility for taking decisions on school based matters (including complaints) rests with the Board of Governors, unless there has been a failure on the part of the Board of Governors to comply with some requirement in education legislation. Investigating and responding to complaints about schools is the responsibility of each school’s governing body.
If the complaints procedure becomes exhausted, there is a right to refer the matter to the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman. The Ombudsman will, however, will only consider a case once the school’s internal complaints process has been fully exhausted.
The schools’ Scheme of Management will have provision for the declaration of pecuniary interests by governors where they should disclose openly the nature of their interest as soon as practicable after the commencement of a meeting. They shall withdraw from the meeting during consideration or discussion of that matter and any vote on any question related to that matter.
Governors are expected to work together to fulfil the Board of Governors statutory functions in relation to the school. The Board of Governors is accountable for ensuring that its decisions support the best interests of the school and its pupils.
It must also ensure that its decisions are consistent with the principles of corporate and collective responsibility as noted in the Governor Guide. This notes that the primary purpose of the school governor, acting collectively as a member of the Board of Governors, is to ensure that the school is properly managed and delivers high quality education for all its pupils.
Apart from the school Principal or elected teacher governor, a governor ceases to be a board member if they: subsequently become an employee of any school for which the board of governors is appointed, is subsequently convicted of an offence and sentenced by a court or subsequently become bankrupt or the subject of a Bankruptcy Restrictions Order.
A member of the board shall be considered to have resigned their membership and shall cease to be a member where - there is an absence from three consecutive meetings, or for six months consecutively, whichever is the greater period, unless the failure to attend was occasioned by illness or other unavoidable cause.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018399%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336578","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336578"}},{"id":"336577","reference":"AQW 18398/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-05","answerBy":"2021-05-20","answered":"2021-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to confirm (i) what oversight his Department provides to monitor the effectiveness of Boards of Governors; and (ii) what action is taken if a Board of Governors of a controlled school have not met regularly and do not engage with parents.","answerText":"The Department does not have an official monitoring role on the effectiveness of Boards of Governors. However, the Education Training Inspectorate may evaluate the quality of the strategic and corporate work of the Board of Governors during inspections and if they are concerned about the standards of governance within a school it can recommend that the Department exercises its powers under Article 14 of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 and appoint additional governors to the board of governors.\n\nThe Education Authority (EA), which appoints Governors to Controlled schools, has an extensive training programme available to all governors and along with the Department is able to provide advice and support to Boards as appropriate.\n\nThe past year has been extremely difficult for schools and in many cases, boards of governors planned meetings could not proceed due to Covid restrictions. The Department recently approved an amendment to the Scheme of Management for Controlled schools which made provision for governors to meet remotely. The EA issued guidance during the first lockdown to advise that Boards of Governors should not meet unless required to transact urgent business.\n\nOutside of Covid restrictions, where it has come to the attention of EA that a Board of Governors has been unable to meet, the EA can provide support to help overcome the barrier to meeting. Where however in the opinion of an individual or group, the board have not met ‘regularly’ enough, that is a matter for the Board to consider.\n\nIf an individual or group is dissatisfied with the level of engagement provided by the Board of Governors, the school should have a process by which concerns may be raised. These may include informal process for providing suggestions and raising such matters. Alternatively, the school will have a complaints procedure available to parents, carers, and other stakeholders that should be used.","answerHtml":"The Department does not have an official monitoring role on the effectiveness of Boards of Governors. However, the Education Training Inspectorate may evaluate the quality of the strategic and corporate work of the Board of Governors during inspections and if they are concerned about the standards of governance within a school it can recommend that the Department exercises its powers under Article 14 of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 and appoint additional governors to the board of governors.
The Education Authority (EA), which appoints Governors to Controlled schools, has an extensive training programme available to all governors and along with the Department is able to provide advice and support to Boards as appropriate.
The past year has been extremely difficult for schools and in many cases, boards of governors planned meetings could not proceed due to Covid restrictions. The Department recently approved an amendment to the Scheme of Management for Controlled schools which made provision for governors to meet remotely. The EA issued guidance during the first lockdown to advise that Boards of Governors should not meet unless required to transact urgent business.
Outside of Covid restrictions, where it has come to the attention of EA that a Board of Governors has been unable to meet, the EA can provide support to help overcome the barrier to meeting. Where however in the opinion of an individual or group, the board have not met ‘regularly’ enough, that is a matter for the Board to consider.
If an individual or group is dissatisfied with the level of engagement provided by the Board of Governors, the school should have a process by which concerns may be raised. These may include informal process for providing suggestions and raising such matters. Alternatively, the school will have a complaints procedure available to parents, carers, and other stakeholders that should be used.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018398%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336577","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336577"}},{"id":"336576","reference":"AQW 18397/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-05","answerBy":"2021-05-20","answered":"2021-05-17","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 in Northern Ireland are on Universal Credit; and (ii) of that number, how many individuals do not receive welfare mitigation support for (a) benefit cap; (b) social sector size criteria, known as the bedroom tax; or (c) benefit cap and social sector size criteria.","answerText":"The most recent published statistical data for Universal Credit and Welfare Mitigations Support is available at:\n\nhttps://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/system/files/publications/communities/dfc-ni-uc-stats-nov-2020.pdf\n\nhttps://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/communities/dfc-annual-report-welfare-supplementary-payments-discretionary-support-standards-of-advice-assistance-and-sanctions-annual-report-2019-20.pdf\n\nhttps://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/system/files/publications/communities/benefit-cap-statistics-nov-2020.pdf\n\nIt is important to note that entitlement to welfare mitigation support is dependent on individual circumstances. Therefore, not everyone claiming Universal Credit will be entitled to support for benefit cap, social sector size criteria or both.","answerHtml":"The most recent published statistical data for Universal Credit and Welfare Mitigations Support is available at:
https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/system/files/publications/communities/dfc-ni-uc-stats-nov-2020.pdf
https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/communities/dfc-annual-report-welfare-supplementary-payments-discretionary-support-standards-of-advice-assistance-and-sanctions-annual-report-2019-20.pdf
https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/system/files/publications/communities/benefit-cap-statistics-nov-2020.pdf
It is important to note that entitlement to welfare mitigation support is dependent on individual circumstances. Therefore, not everyone claiming Universal Credit will be entitled to support for benefit cap, social sector size criteria or both.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018397%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336576","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336576"}},{"id":"336575","reference":"AQW 18396/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-05","answerBy":"2021-05-20","answered":"2021-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions have been taken to ensure each local council’s planning departments and community plans include sustainable targets to meet social housing need over the next 10 years.","answerText":"Local Development Plans and the subsequent consultations included the Housing Executive as the statutory body with responsibility for addressing housing need through new social homes.\n\nSince 2015, staff from Housing Executive Place Shaping Teams have contributed to the development of each community plan to ensure housing is a key outcome. This is important given the statutory link between community plans and the development plans.\n\nAs a statutory consultee, they provide evidence on social housing need on a 15 year basis and work closely with Councils on developing housing policy. The Housing Executive continues to play a key role in the development\n\nprocess by providing input at various stages of the plan and by providing detailed information on potential opportunities and constraints to housing\n\ndevelopment. The LDPs have a statutory requirement to further sustainable development and there is a legal duty to complete Sustainability Appraisals in respect of emerging LDP policy.\n\nI also sought input for this answer from the Department for Infrastructure and it has stated that the Local Council’s emerging Local Development Plans (LDPs) must take account of The Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) and the Regional Development Strategy (RDS). This is a legislative requirement.\n\nThe SPPS identifies that a Housing Needs Analysis (HNA) and Housing Market Analysis (HMA) is undertaken by the Housing Executive, which will identify the range of specific housing needs, including social/affordable housing requirements over the plan period. The development plan process (the LDPs) is the primary vehicle to facilitate any identified need by zoning land or by indicating through key site requirements, where a proportion of a site may be required for social/affordable housing. This does not preclude other sites coming forward through the development management process. DfI has a statutory role which gives consideration as to whether or not the LDP has taken account of policy and guidance issued by DfI, including the RDS and the SPPS.\n\nEach council’s LDP is comprised of two documents (a Plan Strategy – setting out a vision, objectives and strategy, and a Local Policies Plan – setting out more local detailed policies and zonings). Both documents will then be tested for soundness at an independent examination, conducted by the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC), before they are adopted.","answerHtml":"Local Development Plans and the subsequent consultations included the Housing Executive as the statutory body with responsibility for addressing housing need through new social homes.
Since 2015, staff from Housing Executive Place Shaping Teams have contributed to the development of each community plan to ensure housing is a key outcome. This is important given the statutory link between community plans and the development plans.
As a statutory consultee, they provide evidence on social housing need on a 15 year basis and work closely with Councils on developing housing policy. The Housing Executive continues to play a key role in the development
process by providing input at various stages of the plan and by providing detailed information on potential opportunities and constraints to housing
development. The LDPs have a statutory requirement to further sustainable development and there is a legal duty to complete Sustainability Appraisals in respect of emerging LDP policy.
I also sought input for this answer from the Department for Infrastructure and it has stated that the Local Council’s emerging Local Development Plans (LDPs) must take account of The Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) and the Regional Development Strategy (RDS). This is a legislative requirement.
The SPPS identifies that a Housing Needs Analysis (HNA) and Housing Market Analysis (HMA) is undertaken by the Housing Executive, which will identify the range of specific housing needs, including social/affordable housing requirements over the plan period. The development plan process (the LDPs) is the primary vehicle to facilitate any identified need by zoning land or by indicating through key site requirements, where a proportion of a site may be required for social/affordable housing. This does not preclude other sites coming forward through the development management process. DfI has a statutory role which gives consideration as to whether or not the LDP has taken account of policy and guidance issued by DfI, including the RDS and the SPPS.
Each council’s LDP is comprised of two documents (a Plan Strategy – setting out a vision, objectives and strategy, and a Local Policies Plan – setting out more local detailed policies and zonings). Both documents will then be tested for soundness at an independent examination, conducted by the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC), before they are adopted.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018396%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336575","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336575"}},{"id":"336574","reference":"AQW 18395/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-05","answerBy":"2021-05-20","answered":"2021-05-18","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 progress made to take forward the recommendations published by the Housing Supply Forum in 2016.","answerText":"The Housing Supply Forum Report made 10 recommendations to increase housing supply.\n\nA table setting out progress against each recommendation is included below. It should be noted that not all recommendations are for DfC to consider and I have not sought updates on those that fall to other departments.\n\nNo.\tRecommendation\tLead Department / Update\n1\tConsideration should be given to adopting a policy of “presumption in favour of sustainable development”\tDepartment for Infrastructure\n2\tPublication and analysis of key performance information arising from local council planning decisions should be undertaken at suitably regular intervals for each council area.\tDepartment for Infrastructure\n3\tConsideration should be given to completion of a mapping exercise overlapping demand with availability and zoning information and to allowing the construction industry to have access to data on available public land. To enable this to be progressed a meeting should be convened with the DFP Minister / OFMDFM with a view to targets being set for the release of publically owned land.\tDepartment for Communities\nThe Public Land for Housing Project ran from May 2017 to March 2021. The Project has :\nDeveloped a digital map of DfC assets which has been published online on the Spatial NI platform;\nProvided the baseline data for the Land and Property Services (LPS) Government Land and Property Register (GLPR) project; and\nDeveloped new collaborative cross departmental partnerships to explore the release of unused land across the public sector.\nThe Project was also set and achieved a Programme for Government target to identify and secure the release of 10 sites for housing by March 2021.\n4\tThere should be increased encouragement and support from Government for joint ventures between housing associations and private developers, including ‘design and build’\tDepartment for Communities\nThrough the Social Housing Development Programme, Housing Associations bring forward a number of schemes under the competitive design and build method of procurement each year. This has been increasing year on year and provides much needed social housing in areas of greatest need. A review of this procurement method is currently underway. The Department has been working to ensure that the Council’s Local Development Plans approach is procurement compliant. When considering proposed housing developments, where a social housing need has already been identified, local councils can require private developers to provide a certain number/percentage of affordable homes within their Local Development Plans.\n5\tWe recommend that independent empirical research be carried out with both statutory authorities and the development community into housing delivery time frames, to determine the actual time frames being experienced.\tDepartment for Communities\nRecommendation not progressed at this time\n6\tHousing policy should encompass the sector as a whole, rather than its constituent parts.\tDepartment for Communities\nThe Department will soon publish the Call for Evidence on the draft Housing Strategy. The Strategy proposes a whole system approach to addressing Housing challenges. The whole system approach emphasises the central role of people, places and communities in considering and delivering on our housing needs and demands.\n7\tPowers should be available to the new local councils to enable sites to be assembled for the benefit of the whole community and to ensure the appropriate delivery of housing need. As the new councils are new entities, additional or amended legislation may be required\tDepartment for Communities\nRecommendation not progressed at this time\n8\tConsideration should be given to the methodology used to calculate Road and Sewer Bond values and the release of bond capital in a timely manner as construction proceeds. There should also be investigation of whether there is an alternative approach, other than bonds, which would still ensure a high standard of infrastructure\tDepartment for Infrastructure\n9\tAny further increase in Building Regulation requirements incurring additional build costs should be deferred until volumes have recovered significantly.\tDepartment of Finance\n10\tWe suggest conducting a pilot study to track selected housing development projects through the approval and delivery process with the purpose of identifying and removing barriers or blockages that may exist in the current system to enable a more streamlined process to be developed for NI. This should be with a view to examining the potential for the establishment of a Virtual Delivery Unit at an appropriate time.\tDepartment for Communities\nRecommendation not progressed at this time","answerHtml":"The Housing Supply Forum Report made 10 recommendations to increase housing supply.
A table setting out progress against each recommendation is included below. It should be noted that not all recommendations are for DfC to consider and I have not sought updates on those that fall to other departments.
| No. | Recommendation | Lead Department / Update |
| 1 | Consideration should be given to adopting a policy of “presumption in favour of sustainable development” | Department for Infrastructure |
| 2 | Publication and analysis of key performance information arising from local council planning decisions should be undertaken at suitably regular intervals for each council area. | Department for Infrastructure |
| 3 | Consideration should be given to completion of a mapping exercise overlapping demand with availability and zoning information and to allowing the construction industry to have access to data on available public land. To enable this to be progressed a meeting should be convened with the DFP Minister / OFMDFM with a view to targets being set for the release of publically owned land. | Department for Communities The Public Land for Housing Project ran from May 2017 to March 2021. The Project has : Developed a digital map of DfC assets which has been published online on the Spatial NI platform; Provided the baseline data for the Land and Property Services (LPS) Government Land and Property Register (GLPR) project; and Developed new collaborative cross departmental partnerships to explore the release of unused land across the public sector. The Project was also set and achieved a Programme for Government target to identify and secure the release of 10 sites for housing by March 2021. |
| 4 | There should be increased encouragement and support from Government for joint ventures between housing associations and private developers, including ‘design and build’ | Department for Communities Through the Social Housing Development Programme, Housing Associations bring forward a number of schemes under the competitive design and build method of procurement each year. This has been increasing year on year and provides much needed social housing in areas of greatest need. A review of this procurement method is currently underway. The Department has been working to ensure that the Council’s Local Development Plans approach is procurement compliant. When considering proposed housing developments, where a social housing need has already been identified, local councils can require private developers to provide a certain number/percentage of affordable homes within their Local Development Plans. |
| 5 | We recommend that independent empirical research be carried out with both statutory authorities and the development community into housing delivery time frames, to determine the actual time frames being experienced. | Department for Communities Recommendation not progressed at this time |
| 6 | Housing policy should encompass the sector as a whole, rather than its constituent parts. | Department for Communities The Department will soon publish the Call for Evidence on the draft Housing Strategy. The Strategy proposes a whole system approach to addressing Housing challenges. The whole system approach emphasises the central role of people, places and communities in considering and delivering on our housing needs and demands. |
| 7 | Powers should be available to the new local councils to enable sites to be assembled for the benefit of the whole community and to ensure the appropriate delivery of housing need. As the new councils are new entities, additional or amended legislation may be required | Department for Communities Recommendation not progressed at this time |
| 8 | Consideration should be given to the methodology used to calculate Road and Sewer Bond values and the release of bond capital in a timely manner as construction proceeds. There should also be investigation of whether there is an alternative approach, other than bonds, which would still ensure a high standard of infrastructure | Department for Infrastructure |
| 9 | Any further increase in Building Regulation requirements incurring additional build costs should be deferred until volumes have recovered significantly. | Department of Finance |
| 10 | We suggest conducting a pilot study to track selected housing development projects through the approval and delivery process with the purpose of identifying and removing barriers or blockages that may exist in the current system to enable a more streamlined process to be developed for NI. This should be with a view to examining the potential for the establishment of a Virtual Delivery Unit at an appropriate time. | Department for Communities Recommendation not progressed at this time |
I can confirm that my officials met with the Advisory Working Group on 28 April 2021 to review the evidence gathered in full and discuss the development of proposals the shape and scope of the Programme going forward.
I have asked my officials to provide me with an analysis of all the evidence gathered, including details from the latest discussion from the Advisory Working Group meeting. This will inform my update to Executive colleagues on the future implementation of the Programme in the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018238%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336095"}},{"id":"336094","reference":"AQW 18237/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-30","answerBy":"2021-05-18","answered":"2021-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how objective need is used to allocate homes to applicants; and how her Department is achieving the Executive's commitment to building a shared society rather than single identity districts.","answerText":"I am committed to ensuring an effective and fair housing allocations system. This is fundamental to easing housing stress and making sure allocations to social housing are based on objective housing need. The Selection Scheme awards points based on personal, housing and social circumstances. There are four categories: intimidation, insecurity of tenure, housing conditions, and health and social care needs. The total points from all categories reflect the applicant’s housing need.\n\nI recently published a Consultation Outcome Report on the “Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations”. It details the anticipated changes that will update the Housing Selection Scheme, ensuring a more accurate waiting list. The Housing Executive has been asked to take forward implementation of the agreed proposals as soon as the budget is confirmed.","answerHtml":"I am committed to ensuring an effective and fair housing allocations system. This is fundamental to easing housing stress and making sure allocations to social housing are based on objective housing need. The Selection Scheme awards points based on personal, housing and social circumstances. There are four categories: intimidation, insecurity of tenure, housing conditions, and health and social care needs. The total points from all categories reflect the applicant’s housing need.
I recently published a Consultation Outcome Report on the “Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations”. It details the anticipated changes that will update the Housing Selection Scheme, ensuring a more accurate waiting list. The Housing Executive has been asked to take forward implementation of the agreed proposals as soon as the budget is confirmed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018237%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336094","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336094"}},{"id":"336093","reference":"AQW 18236/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-30","answerBy":"2021-05-18","answered":"2021-05-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what progress she has made with the Minister of Finance and HMRC on reducing or removing VAT from labour and equipment purchased to retrofit houses with energy efficient heating alternatives.","answerText":"I have not held discussions with the Minister of Finance or HMRC about reducing or removing VAT from labour and equipment to retrofit houses.\n\nVAT is an Excepted Matter that is the responsibility of Treasury.","answerHtml":"I have not held discussions with the Minister of Finance or HMRC about reducing or removing VAT from labour and equipment to retrofit houses.
VAT is an Excepted Matter that is the responsibility of Treasury.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018236%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336093","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336093"}},{"id":"336092","reference":"AQW 18235/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-30","answerBy":"2021-05-18","answered":"2021-05-12","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 homelessness strategy, including a publication date.","answerText":"The Housing Executive is currently developing a draft Homelessness Strategy for 2022-27 with a view to engaging in a public consultation during Quarter 4 of 2021. The new Homelessness Strategy will be published in April 2022.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive is currently developing a draft Homelessness Strategy for 2022-27 with a view to engaging in a public consultation during Quarter 4 of 2021. The new Homelessness Strategy will be published in April 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018235%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336092","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336092"}},{"id":"336091","reference":"AQW 18234/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-30","answerBy":"2021-05-18","answered":"2021-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what action she is progressing to change mobile library vehicles to alternative fuels such as hydrogen or electric; and when this will be completed.","answerText":"As part of an overall approach to managing the environmental impacts of its operations Libraries NI is developing a vehicle replacement programme which will seek to introduce alternative fuel vehicles to its fleet. The initial focus of this programme will be a phased replacement of the 38 light commercial vehicles which make up the majority of the current vehicle fleet of 55 vehicles in total.\n\nA study is being undertaken to evaluate alternative technologies, the supporting infrastructure currently available and the feasibility of replacing the larger, heavy commercial vehicles used as mobile libraries with vehicles operating on alternative fuel sources.\n\nIt is anticipated this study will be complete by mid-2021 and the findings will inform future approaches to mobile library vehicle replacement.","answerHtml":"As part of an overall approach to managing the environmental impacts of its operations Libraries NI is developing a vehicle replacement programme which will seek to introduce alternative fuel vehicles to its fleet. The initial focus of this programme will be a phased replacement of the 38 light commercial vehicles which make up the majority of the current vehicle fleet of 55 vehicles in total.
A study is being undertaken to evaluate alternative technologies, the supporting infrastructure currently available and the feasibility of replacing the larger, heavy commercial vehicles used as mobile libraries with vehicles operating on alternative fuel sources.
It is anticipated this study will be complete by mid-2021 and the findings will inform future approaches to mobile library vehicle replacement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018234%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336091","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336091"}},{"id":"335917","reference":"AQO 2018/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-29","answerBy":"2021-05-11","answered":"2021-05-11","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education why he has closed the Education Transformation Programme.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Weir (The Minister of Education)","text":"I thank the Member for her question. The transformation programme was an innovative approach to policy and operational review developed by departmental officials in April 2018. It was established in anticipation of the return of the Assembly and for discussion with an incoming Minister. Work across a number of areas was progressed to good effect until the point at which I had to divert departmental staff resources to deal with the significant work associated with the pandemic. Following advice from officials, I took the decision to formally close the programme in March 2021 on the basis that there is no guaranteed funding stream for 2021-22 or beyond. I would like to make it clear that this in no way means an end to transformation activity in the Department. The formal closure of the programme means only that further elements of transformation will be delivered using a different approach. I am keen that policy reform and service delivery improvements continue to be made wherever there is clear and evident need. Some aspects of the transformation programme have already been delivered, and others are continuing as planned, such as the work on an approach to a 14-19 education and training strategy. Other ongoing transformative work includes the scoping of proposals to provide flexibility for school starting age; work to address teacher concerns about workloads and accountability; and a programme of improvement in the Education Authority (EA) relating to services for children and young people with special educational needs (SEN). Finally, the work of the panel on underachievement and the forthcoming independent review of education are further opportunities to transform our system and improve outcomes for children and young people. I repeat that the closure of the programme does not mean the end of transformation; rather, it will be delivered in a different manner."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Thank you, Minister. Given the increasing pressures that schools face because of their budgets, can you outline to us whether the common funding formula, which is a key part of that, has ceased? If not, where is it being dealt with, and where can we access updated information on that?"},{"speaker":"Mr Weir","text":"I take the Member's point about the common funding formula. A summary of proposals on that is being prepared by officials. The problem that we tend to see with the common funding formula is that, unless there is a commitment from the Executive or others to provide additional funding, there is a fight over whether we are taking money out of one school and putting it into another. Ideally, there should be greater funding across the board. The detail of that is being drawn together by officials. Some schools — for example, those operating on split sites — will have concerns about whether there is adequate funding. I visited one of those schools yesterday. It is about assessing what information has been gathered not only for the short term but for the wider review of education as a whole. The review may well have comments to make directly on how we apply funding to make sure that we get the best possible results from any investment."},{"speaker":"Ms Ennis","text":"Like Kellie Armstrong, I want to ask about the common funding scheme. This is important work, particularly in the context of the recent Audit Office report on how special educational expenditure targets disadvantage. When does the Minister expect the review to conclude, and when does he expect to present the final report on the common funding scheme?"},{"speaker":"Mr Weir","text":"There will be elements to do with what resources are applied. There are a number of strands to this, and you mentioned SEN in particular. Of course, the ongoing review of the EA is part of that, and that is looking at where SEN funding is applied. I anticipate that the final report of the educational panel on underachievement will be available by roughly the end of this month. The report will, I think, look at funding issues, along with other aspects. Again, we want to make sure that there is the best possible delivery of that. The problem is that, in any form of reassessment of where common funding should go, everybody assumes that their school or sector is hard done by and will benefit from it."},{"speaker":"","text":"The issue is that, unless additional resources are provided for schools as a whole, it will be a question of gains for some and losses for others. There may be an equitable basis on which that can be justified, but we want to avoid a situation of schools fighting among themselves as to whether they have been treated equitably."},{"speaker":"Miss Woods","text":"The Minister outlines a number of transformative actions that the Department has undertaken, and he mentions funding. A recent Audit Office report found that the Education Department:"},{"speaker":"","text":"In light of that, why has the Department failed to introduce adequate arrangements to assess the effectiveness of the interventions and whether they contribute to achieving the required outcomes?"},{"speaker":"Mr Weir","text":"There is obviously a link between social deprivation and educational underachievement, and that topic will be covered by the panel report. I will present that report to the Assembly, in accordance with procedure, but it has to be adopted first by the Executive. It is sometimes difficult to ascribe a direct linear assessment of particular interventions to individual factors. However, targeting social need by, for example, the use of extended schools has played a significant role in helping to support socially deprived pupils. It is sometimes difficult to assess the extent of hypothecation. We will look to the recommendations of the expert panel on educational underachievement. We need to balance what is appropriate to ensure that money is spent properly and does not put too much of an additional administrative burden on the schools themselves. It is about trying to find an appropriate balance between the two."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Beggs)","text":"I should have advised Members earlier that question 8 has been withdrawn."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202018%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335917","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-05-11&docID=336440#AQO%202018/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335917"}},{"id":"335548","reference":"AQW 18091/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-28","answerBy":"2021-05-14","answered":"2021-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what assurances she can give that anyone being transferred from legacy benefits onto Universal Credit will have transitional protection.","answerText":"People in receipt of existing legacy benefits1 who experience a relevant change of circumstances that triggers a new benefit claim will naturally move onto Universal Credit at that time. Where there is a change of circumstances, different amounts of benefit may be payable, therefore transitional protection is not applicable for these people.\n\nUnder the next phase of Universal Credit roll out - Move to UC, people in receipt of legacy benefits will move onto Universal Credit.\n\nI can confirm that every person who makes a claim to Universal Credit during the Move to UC phase will receive Transitional Protection, meaning they will not receive less in Universal Credit at the outset than they would have in the previous legacy benefits - assuming their circumstances remain the same.\n\n1Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance (Income Based), Employment Support Allowance (Income Related), Housing Benefit (Rental), Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit\n\nIn addition, following the removal of the Severe Disability Premium (SDP) Gateway on 27 January, anyone with an entitlement to a SDP in their legacy benefit, when they move to Universal Credit, will receive a transitional payment broadly equivalent to the rate of SDP payable with the legacy benefit.\n\nSome people will be financially better off on Universal Credit and anyone considering moving from their existing legacy benefit to Universal Credit should seek independent advice and check their entitlement using a benefits calculator.\n\nThe Independent Welfare Changes helpline is available for anyone needing help or advice about any changes to the welfare system, and can be contacted on 0800 915 4604.\n\nA benefits calculator is available on the nidirect website https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/benefits-calculator\n\nAnnex A\n\nAnswer\n\nI am committed to protecting the vulnerable in our society and so officials in my Department engage regularly and closely with their counterparts in DWP on all aspects of Universal Credit as it continues to embed here and in GB.\n\nOn the move to Universal Credit, a DWP pilot started in July 2019, with the aim of testing a number of possible approaches, including the calculation of transitional protection to support people through the next phase, known as Move to UC. I am aware that due to the Coronavirus outbreak and the need to meet the priority of responding to unprecedented demand and getting payment to those who need it as quickly as possible, the Move to UC pilot in GB has been temporarily suspended for the time being.\n\nWhile my Department had work ongoing in planning for a future Move to UC exercise, including monitoring closely the pilot in GB, people here were not included in the DWP pilot. However, as a result of the pandemic my Department has also faced an unprecedented increase in demand for services with reduced staff capacity. All available resources are being directed to delivering essential frontline services to those who need them, in particular the most vulnerable in our communities. Resumption of non - essential activity including work on planning for the Move to UC phase here, will take place at an appropriate time.\n\nThe UK Government has made a commitment that those people who make a claim to UC during the Move to UC phase will not receive less in Universal Credit at the outset than they would have in the previous legacy benefits - assuming their circumstances remain the same.\n\nHowever, it is not appropriate to compare those who may move onto UC through Move to UC (with no change of circumstances) and those who move onto UC because of an event that triggers a new benefit claim. Where there is a change of circumstances, different amounts of benefit may be payable. Therefore, there is no ‘correct’ amount that can be calculated for transitional payments in comparison to what might be payable by way of transitional protection under Move to UC.\n\nThere are however additional payments of two weeks of Housing Benefit, known as a “run-on” which are already available to people moving to UC. Remaining people moving to UC under the Move to UC process will be eligible to receive a two-week Transitional Payment, in line with those who migrate to UC because of a change of circumstances.\n\nThere will also be a two-week “run on” for people in receipt of income-based Jobseekers Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Income Support from 22 July 2020. The amount of these “run-ons” will be fixed according to the amount of the award payable immediately before claiming UC.\n\nMy Department is also currently making transitional payments to those who lost the Severe Disability Premium after moving from legacy benefits to UC.","answerHtml":"People in receipt of existing legacy benefits1 who experience a relevant change of circumstances that triggers a new benefit claim will naturally move onto Universal Credit at that time. Where there is a change of circumstances, different amounts of benefit may be payable, therefore transitional protection is not applicable for these people.
Under the next phase of Universal Credit roll out - Move to UC, people in receipt of legacy benefits will move onto Universal Credit.
I can confirm that every person who makes a claim to Universal Credit during the Move to UC phase will receive Transitional Protection, meaning they will not receive less in Universal Credit at the outset than they would have in the previous legacy benefits - assuming their circumstances remain the same.
1Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance (Income Based), Employment Support Allowance (Income Related), Housing Benefit (Rental), Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit
In addition, following the removal of the Severe Disability Premium (SDP) Gateway on 27 January, anyone with an entitlement to a SDP in their legacy benefit, when they move to Universal Credit, will receive a transitional payment broadly equivalent to the rate of SDP payable with the legacy benefit.
Some people will be financially better off on Universal Credit and anyone considering moving from their existing legacy benefit to Universal Credit should seek independent advice and check their entitlement using a benefits calculator.
The Independent Welfare Changes helpline is available for anyone needing help or advice about any changes to the welfare system, and can be contacted on 0800 915 4604.
A benefits calculator is available on the nidirect website https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/benefits-calculator
Annex A
Answer
I am committed to protecting the vulnerable in our society and so officials in my Department engage regularly and closely with their counterparts in DWP on all aspects of Universal Credit as it continues to embed here and in GB.
On the move to Universal Credit, a DWP pilot started in July 2019, with the aim of testing a number of possible approaches, including the calculation of transitional protection to support people through the next phase, known as Move to UC. I am aware that due to the Coronavirus outbreak and the need to meet the priority of responding to unprecedented demand and getting payment to those who need it as quickly as possible, the Move to UC pilot in GB has been temporarily suspended for the time being.
While my Department had work ongoing in planning for a future Move to UC exercise, including monitoring closely the pilot in GB, people here were not included in the DWP pilot. However, as a result of the pandemic my Department has also faced an unprecedented increase in demand for services with reduced staff capacity. All available resources are being directed to delivering essential frontline services to those who need them, in particular the most vulnerable in our communities. Resumption of non - essential activity including work on planning for the Move to UC phase here, will take place at an appropriate time.
The UK Government has made a commitment that those people who make a claim to UC during the Move to UC phase will not receive less in Universal Credit at the outset than they would have in the previous legacy benefits - assuming their circumstances remain the same.
However, it is not appropriate to compare those who may move onto UC through Move to UC (with no change of circumstances) and those who move onto UC because of an event that triggers a new benefit claim. Where there is a change of circumstances, different amounts of benefit may be payable. Therefore, there is no ‘correct’ amount that can be calculated for transitional payments in comparison to what might be payable by way of transitional protection under Move to UC.
There are however additional payments of two weeks of Housing Benefit, known as a “run-on” which are already available to people moving to UC. Remaining people moving to UC under the Move to UC process will be eligible to receive a two-week Transitional Payment, in line with those who migrate to UC because of a change of circumstances.
There will also be a two-week “run on” for people in receipt of income-based Jobseekers Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Income Support from 22 July 2020. The amount of these “run-ons” will be fixed according to the amount of the award payable immediately before claiming UC.
My Department is also currently making transitional payments to those who lost the Severe Disability Premium after moving from legacy benefits to UC.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018091%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335548","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335548"}},{"id":"335547","reference":"AQW 18090/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-28","answerBy":"2021-05-14","answered":"2021-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many people have been awaiting a personal independence appeal hearing for (i) 4 to 12 weeks; (ii) 12 to 26 weeks; (iii) 26 to 38 weeks; (iv) 38 to 52 weeks; and (v) 52 weeks or more.","answerText":"The number of people awaiting a personal independence appeal hearing in each of the categories requested is set out in the table below.\n\nWeek Range\tPIP Appeals\n4 to 12 Weeks\t472\n13 to 26 Weeks\t755\n27 to 38 Weeks\t449\n39 to 51 Weeks\t177\n52 Weeks or More\t4079\nGrand Total\t5932","answerHtml":"The number of people awaiting a personal independence appeal hearing in each of the categories requested is set out in the table below.
| Week Range | PIP Appeals |
| 4 to 12 Weeks | 472 |
| 13 to 26 Weeks | 755 |
| 27 to 38 Weeks | 449 |
| 39 to 51 Weeks | 177 |
| 52 Weeks or More | 4079 |
| Grand Total | 5932 |
Planning for Move to UC (formerly called Managed Migration) here, was temporarily paused in March 2020 to allow my Department to focus all available resources on the response to the increased demand for services as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A start date for commencement of the Move to UC phase has yet to be confirmed. My Department will keep stakeholders advised when timings are more certain.
Due to the increased demand for benefits as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, my officials continue to monitor closely the resourcing requirements for service delivery and will take into account the number of staff required for the Move to UC phase at the appropriate time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018089%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335546","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335546"}},{"id":"334591","reference":"AQW 17695/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-21","answerBy":"2021-05-07","answered":"2021-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the discussions she has had with the Department of Work and Pensions and the Treasury in relation to ending the six month rule for people with terminal illness; (ii) how far the proposals or criteria defining terminal illness have reached; and (iii) when she will update the public on progress.","answerText":"I recognise the devastating impact terminal illness has on individuals and their families and am committed to reforming provision in social security benefits for those who are terminally ill.\n\nOn 10 March 2021 I had a meeting with Justin Tomlinson MP (Department for Work and Pensions Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work), and pressed him to publish the outcome of the terminal illness evaluation work that commenced in July 2019.\n\nMy officials continue to undertake policy development and analytical work on proposals to reform the 6 months rule. Once this is completed and the necessary approvals secured, I will announce the way forward.","answerHtml":"I recognise the devastating impact terminal illness has on individuals and their families and am committed to reforming provision in social security benefits for those who are terminally ill.
On 10 March 2021 I had a meeting with Justin Tomlinson MP (Department for Work and Pensions Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work), and pressed him to publish the outcome of the terminal illness evaluation work that commenced in July 2019.
My officials continue to undertake policy development and analytical work on proposals to reform the 6 months rule. Once this is completed and the necessary approvals secured, I will announce the way forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017695%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334591","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334591"}},{"id":"334590","reference":"AQW 17694/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-21","answerBy":"2021-05-07","answered":"2021-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when are the COVID-19 accommodation arrangements due to end; and how many of those individuals or families have been provided with future accommodation when temporary accommodation arrangements end.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has statutory responsibility for responding to Homelessness.\n\nThe Housing Executive’s Reset Plan outlining its homelessness response to Covid-19, including a summary of various stages up to March 2022 can be accessed at: https://www.nihe.gov.uk/Documents/Homelessness/ homelessness-reset-plan-the-way-home\n\nWith regard to the future provision of permanent accommodation for those currently in Temporary Accommodation, the Housing Executive will continue to make offers to families and individuals as accommodation becomes available. During the 2020/21 financial year a total of 1,374 households were moved from Temporary Accommodation to permanent social housing and efforts to ensure that offers of appropriate accommodation are made will continue.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has statutory responsibility for responding to Homelessness.
The Housing Executive’s Reset Plan outlining its homelessness response to Covid-19, including a summary of various stages up to March 2022 can be accessed at: https://www.nihe.gov.uk/Documents/Homelessness/ homelessness-reset-plan-the-way-home
With regard to the future provision of permanent accommodation for those currently in Temporary Accommodation, the Housing Executive will continue to make offers to families and individuals as accommodation becomes available. During the 2020/21 financial year a total of 1,374 households were moved from Temporary Accommodation to permanent social housing and efforts to ensure that offers of appropriate accommodation are made will continue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017694%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334590","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334590"}},{"id":"334589","reference":"AQW 17693/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-21","answerBy":"2021-05-07","answered":"2021-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many individuals and families, that were defined as homeless or in housing stress, are currently in temporary accommodation.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has informed me that as of 23rd April 2021, there were a total of 3,276 households who were in temporary accommodation provided by the Housing Executive. Of those 3,276 households, 3,160 households were accepted as statutorily homeless. The remaining 116 households were still awaiting a decision on their homelessness application and temporary accommodation was being provided as part of the Housing Executive interim duty.\n\nIt should be noted that these figures are taken from a live database and include placements made while homelessness applications are being assessed to determine if the statutory threshold is met.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has informed me that as of 23rd April 2021, there were a total of 3,276 households who were in temporary accommodation provided by the Housing Executive. Of those 3,276 households, 3,160 households were accepted as statutorily homeless. The remaining 116 households were still awaiting a decision on their homelessness application and temporary accommodation was being provided as part of the Housing Executive interim duty.
It should be noted that these figures are taken from a live database and include placements made while homelessness applications are being assessed to determine if the statutory threshold is met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017693%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334589","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334589"}},{"id":"334588","reference":"AQW 17692/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-21","answerBy":"2021-05-07","answered":"2021-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how she is addressing ongoing anti-social behaviours that impact Housing Executive and social housing tenants and the wider community.","answerText":"The Housing Executive and registered housing associations (RHAs) have a range of powers at their disposal for dealing with antisocial behaviour (ASB).\n\nThe Department’s Regulatory Framework for RHAs requires social housing providers to work in partnership with other agencies to ensure neighbourhoods are safe and that ASB is tackled effectively. All RHAs are required to have an ASB policy and the Department will seek evidence of compliance with policies when instances of ASB arise.\n\nMy Department is represented on a multi-agency Delivery Group established by the Department of Justice to consider the findings from recent consultation by that Department, to review ASB legislation, and to ensure that relevant agencies have effective and proportionate enforcement powers in place.\n\nThe consultation outcome report on the Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations included proposals for legislative changes that will enable the Housing Executive to ensure that, prior to the award of a tenancy, it is content that an applicant has not been involved in unacceptable behaviour that would make them ineligible.\n\nthe Department has provided guidance to the Housing Executive to assist decision making on eligibility in light of anti-social/unacceptable behaviour.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive and registered housing associations (RHAs) have a range of powers at their disposal for dealing with antisocial behaviour (ASB).
The Department’s Regulatory Framework for RHAs requires social housing providers to work in partnership with other agencies to ensure neighbourhoods are safe and that ASB is tackled effectively. All RHAs are required to have an ASB policy and the Department will seek evidence of compliance with policies when instances of ASB arise.
My Department is represented on a multi-agency Delivery Group established by the Department of Justice to consider the findings from recent consultation by that Department, to review ASB legislation, and to ensure that relevant agencies have effective and proportionate enforcement powers in place.
The consultation outcome report on the Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations included proposals for legislative changes that will enable the Housing Executive to ensure that, prior to the award of a tenancy, it is content that an applicant has not been involved in unacceptable behaviour that would make them ineligible.
the Department has provided guidance to the Housing Executive to assist decision making on eligibility in light of anti-social/unacceptable behaviour.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017692%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334588","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334588"}},{"id":"334587","reference":"AQW 17691/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-21","answerBy":"2021-05-07","answered":"2022-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what information has been provided to GPs and GP surgeries to inform and update them that they can refer same sex couples for fertility treatment through the Regional Fertility Centre and that being LGBT is not a barrier to access fertility services.","answerText":"The referral pathway for all eligible patients, regardless of their sexual orientation, is through their GP. There has not been a particular information campaign regarding the extension of the eligibility criteria from 1 June 2019. The Department of Health eligibility criteria are freely available on the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust website under the clinician section:\n\nhttps://belfasttrust.hscni.net/services/rfc/for-clinicians/infertility-referral/","answerHtml":"The referral pathway for all eligible patients, regardless of their sexual orientation, is through their GP. There has not been a particular information campaign regarding the extension of the eligibility criteria from 1 June 2019. The Department of Health eligibility criteria are freely available on the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust website under the clinician section:
https://belfasttrust.hscni.net/services/rfc/for-clinicians/infertility-referral/
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017691%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334587","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334587"}},{"id":"333996","reference":"AQW 17390/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-15","answerBy":"2021-04-30","answered":"2021-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many carers were registered in each Health and Social Care Trust at the end of March 2021.","answerText":"The number of carers registered in each Health and Social Care Trust is set out in Table 1.\n\nTable 1: Number of carers registered in each Health and Social Care Trust, as at end of March 2021\n\nHSC Trust\tNumber of carers registered\nBelfast\t1,983\nNorthern\t2,006\nSouth Eastern\t2,913\nSouthern\t988\nWestern\t1,975\n\nSource: Health and Social Care Trusts","answerHtml":"The number of carers registered in each Health and Social Care Trust is set out in Table 1.
Table 1: Number of carers registered in each Health and Social Care Trust, as at end of March 2021
| HSC Trust | Number of carers registered |
| Belfast | 1,983 |
| Northern | 2,006 |
| South Eastern | 2,913 |
| Southern | 988 |
| Western | 1,975 |
Source: Health and Social Care Trusts
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017390%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333996","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333996"}},{"id":"333995","reference":"AQW 17389/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-15","answerBy":"2021-04-30","answered":"2021-04-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the (i) number; and (ii) location of new social housing units planned for the Strangford constituency over the next five years.","answerText":"The Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) is a three year rolling programme of planned social housing schemes, therefore I am unable to provide you with schemes for the next 5 years.\n\nAt table 1 below I have attached details of all social houses planned under the current SHDP 2020/21–2022/23 within the Strangford Parliamentary constituency.\n\nPlease note that the Draft SHDP 2021/22 – 2023/24 has been submitted to my Department for approval. The published SHDP will be updated to reflect additional and re-profiled scheme proposals in due course, subject to approval.\n\nProgrammed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons, for example, relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Permission.\n\nAdditional schemes can also be added to the SHDP in-year through the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-shelf properties.\n\nTable 1 List of social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme 2020/21 – 2022/23, within the Strangford Parliamentary Constituency\n\nParliamentary Constituency\tHousing Association\tScheme Name\tLocation\tUnits\tOnsite Year\tCompletionYear\nStrangford\tArk\t56-60 East Street\tNewtownards\t16\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tArk\t56-60 East Street\tNewtownards\t4\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tClanmil\tSloane Crescent (NIHE Transfer)\tKillyleagh\t4\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tClanmil\tSloane Crescent (NIHE Transfer)\tKillyleagh\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tNorth Belfast HA\t11 Lismara Place\tNewtownards\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tNorth Belfast HA\t21 Blenheim Drive\tNewtownards\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tNorth Belfast HA\t7 Abbey Road\tMillisle\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tNorth Belfast HA\t21 Copeland Avenue\tMillisle\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tNorth Belfast HA\t17 Park Crescent\tMillisle\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tNorth Belfast HA\t4 Abbot Garden Mews\tNewtownards\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tNorth Belfast HA\t28 Abbot Gardens\tNewtownards\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tSouth Ulster\t1A Lenamore Park\tNewtownards\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tSouth Ulster\t1B Lenamore Park\tNewtownards\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tSouth Ulster\t1C Lenamore Park\tNewtownards\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tSouth Ulster\t139 Upper Greenwell Street\tNewtownards\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nStrangford\tChoice\tCourt Street\tNewtownards\t27\t2021/22\t2022/23\nStrangford\tHabinteg\tThe Square\tBallynahinch\t6\t2021/22\t2022/23\nStrangford\tRural\tParsonage Close (T)\tKircubbin\t1\t2021/22\t2022/23","answerHtml":"The Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) is a three year rolling programme of planned social housing schemes, therefore I am unable to provide you with schemes for the next 5 years.
At table 1 below I have attached details of all social houses planned under the current SHDP 2020/21–2022/23 within the Strangford Parliamentary constituency.
Please note that the Draft SHDP 2021/22 – 2023/24 has been submitted to my Department for approval. The published SHDP will be updated to reflect additional and re-profiled scheme proposals in due course, subject to approval.
Programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons, for example, relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Permission.
Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP in-year through the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-shelf properties.
Table 1 List of social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme 2020/21 – 2022/23, within the Strangford Parliamentary Constituency
| Parliamentary Constituency | Housing Association | Scheme Name | Location | Units | Onsite Year | CompletionYear |
| Strangford | Ark | 56-60 East Street | Newtownards | 16 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | Ark | 56-60 East Street | Newtownards | 4 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | Clanmil | Sloane Crescent (NIHE Transfer) | Killyleagh | 4 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | Clanmil | Sloane Crescent (NIHE Transfer) | Killyleagh | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | North Belfast HA | 11 Lismara Place | Newtownards | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | North Belfast HA | 21 Blenheim Drive | Newtownards | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | North Belfast HA | 7 Abbey Road | Millisle | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | North Belfast HA | 21 Copeland Avenue | Millisle | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | North Belfast HA | 17 Park Crescent | Millisle | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | North Belfast HA | 4 Abbot Garden Mews | Newtownards | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | North Belfast HA | 28 Abbot Gardens | Newtownards | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | South Ulster | 1A Lenamore Park | Newtownards | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | South Ulster | 1B Lenamore Park | Newtownards | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | South Ulster | 1C Lenamore Park | Newtownards | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | South Ulster | 139 Upper Greenwell Street | Newtownards | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Strangford | Choice | Court Street | Newtownards | 27 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 |
| Strangford | Habinteg | The Square | Ballynahinch | 6 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 |
| Strangford | Rural | Parsonage Close (T) | Kircubbin | 1 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 |
The Housing Executive has provided the following tables detailing the number of applicants in housing stress in the Strangford constituency as at 31 December 2020, broken down by age, gender, and whether it is a family or single person. The Carryduff Common Landlord Area (CLA) crosses the Belfast South and Strangford Parliamentary Constituency Boundaries and has been included separately for completeness.
| Waiting List as at 31/12/20 by Housing Stress & Gender | |||
| Parliamentary Constituency | Female | Male | Total |
| Belfast South/Strangford | 59 | 42 | 101 |
| Strangford | 617 | 495 | 1112 |
| Waiting List as at 31/12/20 by Housing Stress & Age | ||||||||
| Parliamentary Constituency | 18 - 25 Yrs (Inc. Under 18s*) | 26 -29 Yrs | 30 -39 Yrs | 40 - 49 Yrs | 50 - 59 Yrs | 60 - 64 Yrs | 65+ Yrs | Total |
| Belfast South/Strangford | 22 | <10 | 31 | 18 | 10 | <10 | <10 | 101 |
| Strangford | 171 | 99 | 229 | 187 | 159 | 60 | 207 | 1112 |
| Waiting List as at 31/12/20 by Housing Stress & Household Composition | |||||||
| Parliamentary Constituency | Elderly | Large Adult | Large Family | Single | Small Adult | Small Family | Total |
| Belfast South/Strangford | 10 | <10 | <10 | 40 | <10 | 39 | 101 |
| Strangford | 205 | 23 | 86 | 510 | 61 | 227 | 1112 |
The Housing Executive has cladding systems installed on four of its high rise blocks i.e. Cuchulainn, Eithné, Whincroft and Carnet Houses. Neither the Rain Screen system installed at Cuchulainn, Eithné and Whincroft nor the External Wall Insulation system installed at Carnet have Aluminium Containing Materials (ACM) similar to the system used at Grenfell. These systems were subjected to testing in accordance with BS 8414 (Fire performance of external cladding systems - Part 1: Test method for non-loadbearing external cladding systems applied to the masonry face of a building.) and all four comply with Building Regulations. For this reason, the Housing Executive has no current plans for replacing any of these cladding systems.
Following the Grenfell fire, the Housing Executive established an Independent Reference Group (IRG) to review all of its tower blocks in respect of their safety. The IRG’s work commits the Housing Executive to review the cladding systems installed on the blocks against any new regulatory standards that may arise from the outcome of the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety undertaken by Dame Judith Hackitt. In the interim they have appointed Ulster University / Fire-SERT as part of a wider commission to carry out a critical review of the cladding systems using the BS 9414 assessment process which was introduced after Grenfell to test the performance of completed cladding systems in situ; this should begin in May/June.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017187%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333507","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333507"}},{"id":"333506","reference":"AQW 17186/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-13","answerBy":"2021-04-28","answered":"2021-05-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what progress has been made on the plans to reopen and to provide day centre and respite care for people with disabilities and older people.","answerText":"Day centre and respite care services are open at a reduced capacity, in line with Infection Prevention Control (IPC) requirements and social distancing guidelines. IPC and social distancing guidelines are subject to regular review cognisant of the rollout and effectiveness of the vaccine programme and rates of infection.\n\nServices are continuously monitored and assessed so that service uptake and unfilled spaces are reallocated where possible to do so. Aligned to this process, Trusts have been working with families and community colleagues to scope additional/ alternative supports, including Direct Payments, and domiciliary and respite options.","answerHtml":"Day centre and respite care services are open at a reduced capacity, in line with Infection Prevention Control (IPC) requirements and social distancing guidelines. IPC and social distancing guidelines are subject to regular review cognisant of the rollout and effectiveness of the vaccine programme and rates of infection.
Services are continuously monitored and assessed so that service uptake and unfilled spaces are reallocated where possible to do so. Aligned to this process, Trusts have been working with families and community colleagues to scope additional/ alternative supports, including Direct Payments, and domiciliary and respite options.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017186%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333506","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333506"}},{"id":"333505","reference":"AQW 17185/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-13","answerBy":"2021-04-28","answered":"2021-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for a update on the progress of the £500 payment for carers.","answerText":"I refer the Member to AQW 16881/17-22.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to AQW 16881/17-22.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017185%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333505","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333505"}},{"id":"333504","reference":"AQW 17184/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-13","answerBy":"2021-04-28","answered":"2021-04-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline (i) how Shared Education outcomes are measured; and (ii) what evidence is there that the concept has delivered its aims of community cohesion.","answerText":"Under the Shared Education Act (NI) 2016, the Department of Education is required to lay a report before the Assembly every two years on the operation of the Act and section 2(3) of the Education Act (NI) 2014.\n\nTwo reports have been laid to date, both of which can be accessed via https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/what-shared-education.\n\nAs required by the Act, the reports include statements on the extent to which the purpose of Shared Education has been achieved. Information on the impact of Shared Education is obtained from a range of sources including regularly scheduled surveys and reports, supplemented by evaluations, and research papers linked to Shared Education funded programmes.\n\nSection 5 of the latest report, Advancing Shared Education 2nd report to the Northern Ireland Assembly published in June 2020, summarises information obtained from the 2018 Young Life and Times and Kids Life and Times surveys outlining the impact of Shared Education on promoting good relations, respect for identity, diversity and community cohesion.","answerHtml":"Under the Shared Education Act (NI) 2016, the Department of Education is required to lay a report before the Assembly every two years on the operation of the Act and section 2(3) of the Education Act (NI) 2014.
Two reports have been laid to date, both of which can be accessed via https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/what-shared-education.
As required by the Act, the reports include statements on the extent to which the purpose of Shared Education has been achieved. Information on the impact of Shared Education is obtained from a range of sources including regularly scheduled surveys and reports, supplemented by evaluations, and research papers linked to Shared Education funded programmes.
Section 5 of the latest report, Advancing Shared Education 2nd report to the Northern Ireland Assembly published in June 2020, summarises information obtained from the 2018 Young Life and Times and Kids Life and Times surveys outlining the impact of Shared Education on promoting good relations, respect for identity, diversity and community cohesion.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017184%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333504","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333504"}},{"id":"333263","reference":"AQW 17090/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-12","answerBy":"2021-04-27","answered":"2021-04-19","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 (i) what discussion she is having with energy suppliers; and (ii) what action her Department is taking to ensure NI households are protected from the 14% gas unit price increase.","answerText":"The Utility Regulator is responsible for regulating gas tariffs charged by the dominant suppliers in the Greater Belfast and Ten Towns license areas – SSE Airtricity and firmus energy respectively. The Utility Regulator (UR) scrutinises the energy supplier submissions in relation to price changes, and ensures that customers pay no more than the efficient costs of purchasing and supplying natural gas plus an agreed profit margin set by the UR. The Department has an oversight role in this process.\n\nAlthough the firmus energy gas tariff in Greater Belfast is unregulated, a competitive market and the price assurance provided by the regulated tariffs gives protection to domestic gas consumers.","answerHtml":"The Utility Regulator is responsible for regulating gas tariffs charged by the dominant suppliers in the Greater Belfast and Ten Towns license areas – SSE Airtricity and firmus energy respectively. The Utility Regulator (UR) scrutinises the energy supplier submissions in relation to price changes, and ensures that customers pay no more than the efficient costs of purchasing and supplying natural gas plus an agreed profit margin set by the UR. The Department has an oversight role in this process.
Although the firmus energy gas tariff in Greater Belfast is unregulated, a competitive market and the price assurance provided by the regulated tariffs gives protection to domestic gas consumers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017090%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333263","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333263"}},{"id":"333262","reference":"AQW 17089/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-12","answerBy":"2021-04-27","answered":"2021-04-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether earwax removal services are being offered at GP surgeries during the pandemic; and what alternative provision is in place for people who require earwax removal.","answerText":"Under the terms of their contract all GPs are required to provide essential primary medical services to their registered patients and the current COVID-19 pandemic does not in any way negate this requirement. GPs will however use their clinical judgement to decide how best to prioritise patients to provide this core service whilst maintaining patient safety.\n\nGP practices are open and are providing face to face appointments for those patients who are assessed as requiring them. All practices have been provided with a supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to allow them to do so safely.\n\nIn 2018 the National Institute for Clinical Health Excellence (NICE) issued guideline 98 which recommended that the manual syringing method for ear wax removal should no longer be used.\n\nIt recommended that GPs should offer ear wax removal using an electronic irrigator, micro-suction or another method of earwax removal (such as manual removal using a probe) for adults in primary or community ear care services, if the practitioner, such as a community nurse or audiologist:\n\n• has training and expertise in using the method to remove earwax;\n\n• is aware of any contraindications to the method, and\n\n• the correct equipment is available.\n\nGPs are free to decide whether they wish to contract with the HSCB to provide this particular service, having firstly met the relevant NICE recommendations. Where a GP does not provide the service, they would make the necessary referrals to ENT/Audiology in a Health and Social Care Trust, for which there will be no charge. However, rather than wait, patients may prefer to seek, and pay for, private treatment.","answerHtml":"Under the terms of their contract all GPs are required to provide essential primary medical services to their registered patients and the current COVID-19 pandemic does not in any way negate this requirement. GPs will however use their clinical judgement to decide how best to prioritise patients to provide this core service whilst maintaining patient safety.
GP practices are open and are providing face to face appointments for those patients who are assessed as requiring them. All practices have been provided with a supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to allow them to do so safely.
In 2018 the National Institute for Clinical Health Excellence (NICE) issued guideline 98 which recommended that the manual syringing method for ear wax removal should no longer be used.
It recommended that GPs should offer ear wax removal using an electronic irrigator, micro-suction or another method of earwax removal (such as manual removal using a probe) for adults in primary or community ear care services, if the practitioner, such as a community nurse or audiologist:
• has training and expertise in using the method to remove earwax;
• is aware of any contraindications to the method, and
• the correct equipment is available.
GPs are free to decide whether they wish to contract with the HSCB to provide this particular service, having firstly met the relevant NICE recommendations. Where a GP does not provide the service, they would make the necessary referrals to ENT/Audiology in a Health and Social Care Trust, for which there will be no charge. However, rather than wait, patients may prefer to seek, and pay for, private treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017089%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333262","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333262"}},{"id":"333261","reference":"AQW 17088/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-12","answerBy":"2021-04-27","answered":"2021-08-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for a update on the provision of earwax removal services in each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Earwax is predominantly managed via self-care, with GP-led interventions where required. However, when necessary, patients may be referred to Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) clinics for microsuction, which is generally a nurse-led service provided by each Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust. ENT consultants may also carry out the procedure in outpatient clinics.\n\nDuring high surges in COVID-19 admissions, some ENT services such as nurse-led ear care clinics were unfortunately stood down, with the exception of urgent cases which ENT teams have continued to see. Trusts’ current service delivery plans for July and August 2021 underpin efforts to stabilise and rebuild all HSC services while continuing to respond to the pressures which the ongoing pandemic is placing on normal patient care.","answerHtml":"Earwax is predominantly managed via self-care, with GP-led interventions where required. However, when necessary, patients may be referred to Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) clinics for microsuction, which is generally a nurse-led service provided by each Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust. ENT consultants may also carry out the procedure in outpatient clinics.
During high surges in COVID-19 admissions, some ENT services such as nurse-led ear care clinics were unfortunately stood down, with the exception of urgent cases which ENT teams have continued to see. Trusts’ current service delivery plans for July and August 2021 underpin efforts to stabilise and rebuild all HSC services while continuing to respond to the pressures which the ongoing pandemic is placing on normal patient care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017088%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333261","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333261"}},{"id":"335221","reference":"AQO 1900/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-25","answerBy":"2021-04-19","answered":"2021-04-20","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 ongoing issues with in-year planned growth funding for Grant Maintained Integrated schools.","answerText":"Finance officials in my Department and the Education Authority have established a Project to review the Education Authority’s application of the Common Funding Scheme in relation to dual sites and contingency funding, which includes in-year growth. The issues raised by stakeholders are being fully considered as part of this Project.\n\nAny change to the current funding approach adopted by the Education Authority will require a robust assessment of the financial impact on the education budget. This work is ongoing and is being progressed at pace. It is anticipated that the outcome of the review will be known early in the 2021-22 financial year.","answerHtml":"Finance officials in my Department and the Education Authority have established a Project to review the Education Authority’s application of the Common Funding Scheme in relation to dual sites and contingency funding, which includes in-year growth. The issues raised by stakeholders are being fully considered as part of this Project.
Any change to the current funding approach adopted by the Education Authority will require a robust assessment of the financial impact on the education budget. This work is ongoing and is being progressed at pace. It is anticipated that the outcome of the review will be known early in the 2021-22 financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201900%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335221"}},{"id":"331848","reference":"AQW 16600/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-19","answerBy":"2021-04-07","answered":"2021-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether his Department is planning to introduce legislation proposals to protect freeholders against service charges and other fees and charges.","answerText":"During the previous mandate, my Department undertook preliminary work in the context of developing legislation around shared property managers, including registration of such companies and codes of conduct. However, a lack of consensus on aspects of the detail of such legislation, coupled with limitations on available resources, has meant that it has not been progressed further to date.\n\nSubject to competing resources and Executive priorities, officials within the Department intend to liaise again with other colleagues in Government with a view to establishing agreement upon which firm policy proposals can be finalised. Although there is insufficient time left in the course of this mandate to develop and finalise a Bill and take it through the various stages in the Assembly, further work is planned that will permit an incoming Executive to consider this issue next year.","answerHtml":"During the previous mandate, my Department undertook preliminary work in the context of developing legislation around shared property managers, including registration of such companies and codes of conduct. However, a lack of consensus on aspects of the detail of such legislation, coupled with limitations on available resources, has meant that it has not been progressed further to date.
Subject to competing resources and Executive priorities, officials within the Department intend to liaise again with other colleagues in Government with a view to establishing agreement upon which firm policy proposals can be finalised. Although there is insufficient time left in the course of this mandate to develop and finalise a Bill and take it through the various stages in the Assembly, further work is planned that will permit an incoming Executive to consider this issue next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016600%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331848","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331848"}},{"id":"335435","reference":"AQO 1861/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-18","answerBy":"2021-04-13","answered":"2021-04-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what discussions she has had with the Housing Executive on proposed delays to the action plan on any significant work to correct cavity wall insulation.","answerText":"I have spoken many times about the significant backlog the Housing Executive faces in stock investment and the £7.8 billion deficit in its funding.\n\nThe Housing Executive published its draft Cavity Wall Insulation Action Plan for consultation in December. That consultation has just closed and the responses received will be carefully considered before the final plan is published later this year.\n\nOnce it has the funding to do so the Housing Executive intends to implement a cavity wall insulation remediation/replacement programme which will be an integral part of its Energy Efficiency Strategy. Not only will this strategy help address fuel poverty and improve tenants’ comfort, it will play a major part in the Housing Executive’s effort to contribute to decarbonisation","answerHtml":"I have spoken many times about the significant backlog the Housing Executive faces in stock investment and the £7.8 billion deficit in its funding.
The Housing Executive published its draft Cavity Wall Insulation Action Plan for consultation in December. That consultation has just closed and the responses received will be carefully considered before the final plan is published later this year.
Once it has the funding to do so the Housing Executive intends to implement a cavity wall insulation remediation/replacement programme which will be an integral part of its Energy Efficiency Strategy. Not only will this strategy help address fuel poverty and improve tenants’ comfort, it will play a major part in the Housing Executive’s effort to contribute to decarbonisation
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201861%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335435","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335435"}},{"id":"331462","reference":"AQW 16436/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-16","answerBy":"2021-04-01","answered":"2021-03-23","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 Fresh Start funding allocated for (i) shared housing; (ii) integrated education; and (iii) shared education, in 2021/22.","answerText":"The Fresh Start allocations in the draft Budget 2021-22 are £16.9 million Capital DEL to the Department for Communities for Shared Housing, and £11.5 million to the Department of Education (DE) for Shared Education.\n\nThe funding for DE is for both shared and integrated education and precise disaggregation would be for the Education Minister to provide.","answerHtml":"The Fresh Start allocations in the draft Budget 2021-22 are £16.9 million Capital DEL to the Department for Communities for Shared Housing, and £11.5 million to the Department of Education (DE) for Shared Education.
The funding for DE is for both shared and integrated education and precise disaggregation would be for the Education Minister to provide.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016436%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331462","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331462"}},{"id":"331461","reference":"AQW 16435/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-16","answerBy":"2021-04-01","answered":"2021-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how she plans to create employment in the area of nature-based solutions.","answerText":"I recently consulted on “Living With Water in Belfast” - a £1.4 billion investment plan for drainage and wastewater management within the greater Belfast area. The plan sets out a new approach to the provision of drainage and wastewater infrastructure by promoting holistic and integrated solutions that achieve a wide range of benefits at reduced cost and disruption. Proposed measures include more conventional hard-engineered infrastructure such as bigger pipes or higher flood defences, alongside greener drainage solutions such as sustainable drainage systems and river floodplain restoration works. The inclusion of these more natural blue/green infrastructure measures has the potential to create new employment opportunities in the area of nature-based solutions. I am very keen to see this approach extended to other parts of the North and I have recently commissioned a study in Derry to examine opportunities to use blue/green spaces to naturally attenuate surface water to improve water quality in the rivers and reduce flood risk within the surrounding area.\n\nFurther employment opportunities also exist in the provision of nature-based treatment solutions for drinking water and wastewater. The Company’s Sustainable Catchment Management Planning (SCaMP) Project has been successful at demonstrating how catchments can be managed to provide both improved water quality and an enhanced natural environment. NI Water is increasingly taking a new more innovative, resilient and environmentally sustainable approach to managing catchments, by working in partnership with stakeholders and landowners in source catchments, to improve water quality before it even reaches the water treatment works. The Company aims to use fewer chemicals and less energy to treat drinking water, which is good news for their customers and the environment. In addition, the company is currently evaluating a number of different nature-based methods for sustainable wastewater treatment. Some of these technologies are already in operation, including the integrated constructed wetlands at Stoneyford and at Castle Archdale in Fermanagh.","answerHtml":"I recently consulted on “Living With Water in Belfast” - a £1.4 billion investment plan for drainage and wastewater management within the greater Belfast area. The plan sets out a new approach to the provision of drainage and wastewater infrastructure by promoting holistic and integrated solutions that achieve a wide range of benefits at reduced cost and disruption. Proposed measures include more conventional hard-engineered infrastructure such as bigger pipes or higher flood defences, alongside greener drainage solutions such as sustainable drainage systems and river floodplain restoration works. The inclusion of these more natural blue/green infrastructure measures has the potential to create new employment opportunities in the area of nature-based solutions. I am very keen to see this approach extended to other parts of the North and I have recently commissioned a study in Derry to examine opportunities to use blue/green spaces to naturally attenuate surface water to improve water quality in the rivers and reduce flood risk within the surrounding area.
Further employment opportunities also exist in the provision of nature-based treatment solutions for drinking water and wastewater. The Company’s Sustainable Catchment Management Planning (SCaMP) Project has been successful at demonstrating how catchments can be managed to provide both improved water quality and an enhanced natural environment. NI Water is increasingly taking a new more innovative, resilient and environmentally sustainable approach to managing catchments, by working in partnership with stakeholders and landowners in source catchments, to improve water quality before it even reaches the water treatment works. The Company aims to use fewer chemicals and less energy to treat drinking water, which is good news for their customers and the environment. In addition, the company is currently evaluating a number of different nature-based methods for sustainable wastewater treatment. Some of these technologies are already in operation, including the integrated constructed wetlands at Stoneyford and at Castle Archdale in Fermanagh.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016435%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331461","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331461"}},{"id":"331460","reference":"AQW 16434/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-16","answerBy":"2021-04-01","answered":"2021-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how he plans to create employment in the area of nature-based solutions.","answerText":"I am a member of the Inter-Ministerial Group on Green Growth which is overseeing the development of a Green Growth Strategy on behalf of the Executive.\n\nPolicies and underpinning guidance that promote nature-based solutions will have to be considered as part of the wider Green Growth strategy and the wider commitment to contribute to Net Zero. It will be for the Executive and individual Ministers to determine the investment priorities required to deliver the agreed strategic outcomes going forward including job creation opportunities.\n\nWith regard to my Department, the new social value policy will set out how the imperative of reducing carbon emissions will be integrated into procurement. I am working with the Procurement Board to develop an enhanced social value model\n\nwhich will look to reduce carbon emissions through the performance of government contracts both with the main contractor and associated supply chains.","answerHtml":"I am a member of the Inter-Ministerial Group on Green Growth which is overseeing the development of a Green Growth Strategy on behalf of the Executive.
Policies and underpinning guidance that promote nature-based solutions will have to be considered as part of the wider Green Growth strategy and the wider commitment to contribute to Net Zero. It will be for the Executive and individual Ministers to determine the investment priorities required to deliver the agreed strategic outcomes going forward including job creation opportunities.
With regard to my Department, the new social value policy will set out how the imperative of reducing carbon emissions will be integrated into procurement. I am working with the Procurement Board to develop an enhanced social value model
which will look to reduce carbon emissions through the performance of government contracts both with the main contractor and associated supply chains.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016434%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331460","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331460"}},{"id":"331459","reference":"AQW 16433/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-16","answerBy":"2021-04-01","answered":"2021-08-25","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 how he plans to create employment in the area of nature-based solutions.","answerText":"Nature-based solutions (NbS) are solutions that work with and enhance nature to help address societal challenges such as climate change, while simultaneously providing multi-functional benefits to biodiversity and people.\n\nMy Department supports a wide range of such solutions and other measures to help contribute to a reduction in emissions, climate change mitigation and adaptation, improved water cycling, reversals to biodiversity decline and improved health and wellbeing. This support enables and maintains the employment of those who deliver these measures.\n\nFor example to assist with climate change mitigation and adaptation my Department supports measures to increase carbon sequestration in ecosystems and to deliver benefits to biodiversity such as reforestation and peatland restoration. We also improve the adaptive capacity of biodiversity to future climate change through for example restoring hedgerows that could potentially facilitate species movement within the landscape. NbS measures we take to assist with the creation of accessible green spaces also benefit health and well-being.\n\nMy Department is committed to the continued protection and improvement of the environment and I have championed a Green Growth Approach to transform and grow the Northern Ireland economy whilst protecting our natural assets and reducing our carbon emissions. I have initiated a number of specific measures to help address these matters for example: in March 2020 I announced the Forests for the Future Programme which will involve the planting of 18 million trees over the next 10 years; and I have continued to support financial measures to conserve and restore our natural habitats such as those delivered through the Departments Environment Fund and our Agri-Environment Schemes. Many of the associated outcomes are delivered by individuals and organisations within the environment sector.\n\nThis range of programmes alongside the work of other Executive colleagues will together help contribute to the delivery of NbS and other measures that will help us to achieve environmental and climate change targets which supporting employment.","answerHtml":"Nature-based solutions (NbS) are solutions that work with and enhance nature to help address societal challenges such as climate change, while simultaneously providing multi-functional benefits to biodiversity and people.
My Department supports a wide range of such solutions and other measures to help contribute to a reduction in emissions, climate change mitigation and adaptation, improved water cycling, reversals to biodiversity decline and improved health and wellbeing. This support enables and maintains the employment of those who deliver these measures.
For example to assist with climate change mitigation and adaptation my Department supports measures to increase carbon sequestration in ecosystems and to deliver benefits to biodiversity such as reforestation and peatland restoration. We also improve the adaptive capacity of biodiversity to future climate change through for example restoring hedgerows that could potentially facilitate species movement within the landscape. NbS measures we take to assist with the creation of accessible green spaces also benefit health and well-being.
My Department is committed to the continued protection and improvement of the environment and I have championed a Green Growth Approach to transform and grow the Northern Ireland economy whilst protecting our natural assets and reducing our carbon emissions. I have initiated a number of specific measures to help address these matters for example: in March 2020 I announced the Forests for the Future Programme which will involve the planting of 18 million trees over the next 10 years; and I have continued to support financial measures to conserve and restore our natural habitats such as those delivered through the Departments Environment Fund and our Agri-Environment Schemes. Many of the associated outcomes are delivered by individuals and organisations within the environment sector.
This range of programmes alongside the work of other Executive colleagues will together help contribute to the delivery of NbS and other measures that will help us to achieve environmental and climate change targets which supporting employment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016433%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331459","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331459"}},{"id":"331458","reference":"AQW 16432/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-16","answerBy":"2021-04-01","answered":"2021-04-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how she plans to create employment in the area of nature-based solutions.","answerText":"I would refer the Member to the reply I gave to AQW 16419/17-22.","answerHtml":"I would refer the Member to the reply I gave to AQW 16419/17-22.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016432%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331458","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331458"}},{"id":"331195","reference":"AQW 16354/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-15","answerBy":"2021-03-31","answered":"2021-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) why the remuneration for the Independent Chair and Panel members for the Integrated Review of Education is significantly below that offered and provided to the panel who completed the Systems, Not Structures: Changing Health and Social Care review; and (ii) to confirm what criteria he used to determine the remuneration now offered.","answerText":"The level of remuneration provided to the members of the “Systems, Not Structures: Changing Health and Social Care” review panel is a matter for the Department of Health.\n\nIn determining the remuneration to be offered to the Independent Review of Education panel members, consideration was given to the costs associated with similar review panels and boards. This included the panel led by Professor Bengoa, comparable board-level roles in Northern Ireland and Great Britain and daily rates for senior civil servants and non-executive board members. Ultimately, I determined that rates should be the same as those provided to members of the Expert Panel on Educational Underachievement.","answerHtml":"The level of remuneration provided to the members of the “Systems, Not Structures: Changing Health and Social Care” review panel is a matter for the Department of Health.
In determining the remuneration to be offered to the Independent Review of Education panel members, consideration was given to the costs associated with similar review panels and boards. This included the panel led by Professor Bengoa, comparable board-level roles in Northern Ireland and Great Britain and daily rates for senior civil servants and non-executive board members. Ultimately, I determined that rates should be the same as those provided to members of the Expert Panel on Educational Underachievement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016354%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331195","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331195"}},{"id":"330958","reference":"AQO 1833/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-11","answerBy":"2021-03-23","answered":"2021-03-23","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission for an update on the Youth Assembly.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr K Buchanan","text":"With your permission, Mr Deputy Speaker, I will group questions 6 and 15, so I may need a few extra seconds to give my response. I thank both Members for their questions. As Members may recall, the House was last updated on the Youth Assembly on 8 December. Since then, a number of important developments have occurred, and I will outline some of those for Members. Assembly officials have continued their work to develop the practicalities and arrangements needed to enable the Youth Assembly to start its work. In particular, a co-design panel of young people was established to help to shape the principles and best approach to recruitment for the Youth Assembly. The panel met during December and January and produced and agreed its report at the end of January. Based on the panel's findings, officials have subsequently designed and developed proposals for the recruitment of the members of the Youth Assembly. In addition, the Speaker established a Youth Assembly advisory group to provide the Commission with advice and guidance from the youth sector and other relevant stakeholders in relation to establishing, implementing and reviewing the operation of the Youth Assembly during its two-year pioneer phase. The group comprises the Speaker; senior Assembly officials; Professor Laura Lundy from the Centre for Children's Rights at Queen's University; the Children's Commissioner, Koulla Yiasouma; and adults and young people from the Northern Ireland Youth Forum, YouthAction and the Education Authority."},{"speaker":"","text":"The recruitment proposals developed by officials were presented to and considered by the advisory group at the start of this month. The group very much welcomed the engagement with young people and the co-design panel report. The group also provided useful and practical advice and endorsed the concept of the recruitment proposals. Officials subsequently considered the group’s advice, refined the proposals and presented them to the Commission at a meeting last Thursday. The Commission is now considering them, and a decision will be taken soon. As we look ahead, subject to agreement, it is anticipated that the recruitment of members of the Youth Assembly will take place during April and May, in the hope that it will be able to meet for the first time before the summer. That is a challenging timescale, not least because of the current public health situation, but we are committed to doing all that we can to meet that aim. Finally, it is worth emphasising that the work and proceedings of the Youth Assembly will not be party political and that its members will represent their lived experiences and the views of young people in general."},{"speaker":"Ms S Bradley","text":"I thank the Commission member for the answer and welcome the detail, particularly on the timeline for recruitment. Will he elaborate on how the Commission will make sure that any Youth Assembly reflects our increasingly diverse society? Does he anticipate that the use of technology, as he is so ably demonstrating today, will be used as a tool to allow more young people to engage with this place?"},{"speaker":"Mr K Buchanan","text":"If I may, I will take your second question on technology first. The aim is for the Youth Assembly to be operating prior to the summer. Restrictions will obviously need to have eased to allow 90 young people to be in the Chamber, so I suspect that technology will be used at that stage, purely for social-distancing reasons. I assure the Member that all section 75 groupings will be included. The method of selection will be, first, three members from the 18 constituencies. That gives 54 members, which will provide a broad spectrum of members from across Northern Ireland. We will ensure that the remaining 36 members reflect all section 75 groupings. It is important that that happens. A random selection approach will be used. For example, if Mid Ulster had three female members in the initial 54 members, the selection process to incorporate the remaining 36 members would counterbalance that, if you understand the point that I am getting at. I assure the Member that the membership will cover all section 75 aspects."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Will the Commission member clarify whether the issues that the Youth Assembly considers and may consider in the future will link into any possible citizens' assembly, as mentioned in 'New Decade, New Approach'?"},{"speaker":"Mr K Buchanan","text":"I thank the Member for her question. My understanding is that the 90 members will have it very much in their own destinies. Ultimately, the 90 young people will be a young persons' assembly. Out of that, there will be up to four Committees, and the young people will agree which Assembly Committees they will, for want of a better word, shadow. Effectively, there will be a two-year test phase, with the young people heading in whatever direction they see fit and \"shadowing\" — we will use that word — whatever Assembly Committees they want to follow. It will be a two-year programme. Depending on how well that goes, it will be developed, and it will be up to future Commission members to see how far it goes. The Youth Assembly will very much be driven by those within it."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Beggs)","text":"That is the end of the period for questions to the Assembly Commission. I invite Members to take their ease for a few moments before we return to the debate on the coronavirus restriction regulations. Apologies: I understand that we have finished debating the coronavirus restriction regulations. After our brief interlude, we will begin the Committee motion."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201833%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330958","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-03-23&docID=331535#AQO%201833/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330958"}},{"id":"330718","reference":"AQW 16127/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-10","answerBy":"2021-03-26","answered":"2021-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether any underspend of the Fresh Start Agreement money is planned to be allocated to Shared Housing in the 2021-22 financial year.","answerText":"The Draft Budget 2021-22 announced in January 2020 provided £16.9 million of Fresh Start funding to the Department for Communities for Housing for All Shared Social Housing.","answerHtml":"The Draft Budget 2021-22 announced in January 2020 provided £16.9 million of Fresh Start funding to the Department for Communities for Housing for All Shared Social Housing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016127%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330718","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330718"}},{"id":"330177","reference":"AQW 15970/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-08","answerBy":"2021-03-24","answered":"2021-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many homes owned by the Housing Executive will need to be retrofitted to meet carbon neutral targets.","answerText":"Housing Executive work is ongoing to determine the types and cost of retrofit measures that would be required for its different kinds of stock to achieve various SAP Band standards.","answerHtml":"Housing Executive work is ongoing to determine the types and cost of retrofit measures that would be required for its different kinds of stock to achieve various SAP Band standards.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015970%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330177","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330177"}},{"id":"330176","reference":"AQW 15969/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-08","answerBy":"2021-03-24","answered":"2021-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether the boiler replacement scheme will include gas and oil boilers; and (ii) when the scheme will be extended to support home owners in rural areas not able to access gas for home heating.","answerText":"The Boiler Replacement Scheme is a grant based scheme funded by the Department and administered by the Housing Executive.\n\nIf an applicant meets these criteria the boiler can be changed from a gas, LPG or oil fired boiler to a high efficiency gas, oil or wood pellet fired boiler.\n\nFor further information and advice on the scheme please see the link below to the Housing Executive’s website The Housing Executive - Boiler Replacement Scheme (nihe.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"The Boiler Replacement Scheme is a grant based scheme funded by the Department and administered by the Housing Executive.
If an applicant meets these criteria the boiler can be changed from a gas, LPG or oil fired boiler to a high efficiency gas, oil or wood pellet fired boiler.
For further information and advice on the scheme please see the link below to the Housing Executive’s website The Housing Executive - Boiler Replacement Scheme (nihe.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015969%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330176","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330176"}},{"id":"330175","reference":"AQW 15968/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-08","answerBy":"2021-03-24","answered":"2021-06-02","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 whether he will review and update tree protection legislation to include woodland and undergrowth habitats, and ecosystem protection as a whole.","answerText":"The Department for Infrastructure is the statutory body responsible for tree protection legislation provided under the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 and The Planning (Trees) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 which includes Tree Preservation Orders. It is the local councils that make and enforce Tree Preservation Orders under the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, to protect selected trees, the woodlands and associated ecosystems.\n\nMy Department protects woodland designated as Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) under the Environment (Northern Ireland) Order 2002 which requires that operations within the ASSI citation need consent from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency. The Department’s Forest Service regulates tree felling in forests under the Forestry Act (Northern Ireland) 2010 to ensure sustainable forest management, including the regeneration of the woodland. Forest Service also regulates woodland removal under the Environmental Impact Assessment (Forestry) Regulations (Northern Ireland) within the exemptions and thresholds that apply.\n\nI have no plans to review the legislation protecting ASSI woodland, regulating felling and woodland removal for which my Department has responsibility.","answerHtml":"The Department for Infrastructure is the statutory body responsible for tree protection legislation provided under the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 and The Planning (Trees) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 which includes Tree Preservation Orders. It is the local councils that make and enforce Tree Preservation Orders under the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, to protect selected trees, the woodlands and associated ecosystems.
My Department protects woodland designated as Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) under the Environment (Northern Ireland) Order 2002 which requires that operations within the ASSI citation need consent from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency. The Department’s Forest Service regulates tree felling in forests under the Forestry Act (Northern Ireland) 2010 to ensure sustainable forest management, including the regeneration of the woodland. Forest Service also regulates woodland removal under the Environmental Impact Assessment (Forestry) Regulations (Northern Ireland) within the exemptions and thresholds that apply.
I have no plans to review the legislation protecting ASSI woodland, regulating felling and woodland removal for which my Department has responsibility.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015968%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330175","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330175"}},{"id":"330174","reference":"AQW 15967/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-08","answerBy":"2021-03-24","answered":"2021-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to outline her commitment to shared housing and shared neighbourhoods; and (ii) whether she will ensure that all strategic housing plans will meet the Executive’s agreed commitment to the Good Relations Strategy.","answerText":"Shared Housing is an important part of the overall housing programme which my Department is committed to delivering. Fresh Start Funding of £16.9m has been invested in the Shared Housing programme in 20/21 and the programme has recently expanded taking the total number of Shared Neighbourhoods either currently being delivered or under development to forty nine. My Department has doubled its target for 20/21 from 200 shared units to 400. It is anticipated that this growth will continue in response to public appetite for shared neighbourhoods subject to the continued availability of funding which facilitates investment in Good Relations delivery.\n\nI can confirm that my strategic housing plans will have regard to the Executive’s agreed commitment to the Good Relations Strategy.","answerHtml":"Shared Housing is an important part of the overall housing programme which my Department is committed to delivering. Fresh Start Funding of £16.9m has been invested in the Shared Housing programme in 20/21 and the programme has recently expanded taking the total number of Shared Neighbourhoods either currently being delivered or under development to forty nine. My Department has doubled its target for 20/21 from 200 shared units to 400. It is anticipated that this growth will continue in response to public appetite for shared neighbourhoods subject to the continued availability of funding which facilitates investment in Good Relations delivery.
I can confirm that my strategic housing plans will have regard to the Executive’s agreed commitment to the Good Relations Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015967%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330174","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330174"}},{"id":"330173","reference":"AQW 15966/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-08","answerBy":"2021-03-24","answered":"2021-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what actions are being taken to decarbonise the public sector estate.","answerText":"The Department of Finance (DoF) is responsible for managing the Civil Service Office Estate, which equates to around 4% of the total Public Sector energy consumption here.\n\nDoF aims, through its Office Estate Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction plans, to achieve culminative energy savings and consequential reductions in carbon. These savings support and feed into the wider Energy Management Strategy and Action Plan to 2030 for Central Government introduced by the Department for Economy (DfE).\n\nFurther, new or refurbished DoF buildings undergo BRE Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) appraisal and the use of energy efficient installations has been incorporated into the Civil Service Accommodation Standards specification.","answerHtml":"The Department of Finance (DoF) is responsible for managing the Civil Service Office Estate, which equates to around 4% of the total Public Sector energy consumption here.
DoF aims, through its Office Estate Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction plans, to achieve culminative energy savings and consequential reductions in carbon. These savings support and feed into the wider Energy Management Strategy and Action Plan to 2030 for Central Government introduced by the Department for Economy (DfE).
Further, new or refurbished DoF buildings undergo BRE Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) appraisal and the use of energy efficient installations has been incorporated into the Civil Service Accommodation Standards specification.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015966%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330173","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330173"}},{"id":"331565","reference":"AQO 1739/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-04","answerBy":"2021-03-15","answered":"2021-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when the successful candidate for the Chair of the Independent Review of Education will be announced.","answerText":"I hope to be able to announce the appointment of the Chair and the other members of the Independent Panel by the end of June 2021. This timeframe assumes that the ongoing recruitment process runs to the current timetable and that no unforeseen delays occurs.","answerHtml":"I hope to be able to announce the appointment of the Chair and the other members of the Independent Panel by the end of June 2021. This timeframe assumes that the ongoing recruitment process runs to the current timetable and that no unforeseen delays occurs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201739%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331565","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331565"}},{"id":"329492","reference":"AQW 15725/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-03","answerBy":"2021-03-19","answered":"2021-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, given that retail is not fully open, and taking account of the economic crisis facing society, whether he will provide clear guidance to all governors and principals to relax school uniform and school footwear policies and rules.","answerText":"The wearing of a school uniform is not governed by legislation but falls to schools themselves to determine. The day-to-day management of schools, including school uniform policy, is a matter for school Principals, subject to any directions that might be given by the Board of Governors.\n\nThe Department has, however, produced guidance for schools on developing school uniform policy. This guidance states that schools should make discreet enquiries in cases where a pupil is not adhering to the school uniform policy as there may be a number of valid reasons as to why and in such circumstances it may not be appropriate for schools to send a child home. The advice also states that schools should be sensitive to a situation where financial circumstances are preventing pupils from wearing the correct uniform.\n\nThe guidance can be accessed on the Department’s website: https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201104-guidance-schools-school-uniform-policy-revised-5-june-2018\n\nThe Department has also addressed the matter of school uniforms in the Education Restart guidance on the safe reopening of educational settings and schools have been encouraged to consider the views of parents, pupils and the school community and to show flexibility around the issue of school uniforms in these extraordinary times to avoid creating additional pressure or expense on parents.","answerHtml":"The wearing of a school uniform is not governed by legislation but falls to schools themselves to determine. The day-to-day management of schools, including school uniform policy, is a matter for school Principals, subject to any directions that might be given by the Board of Governors.
The Department has, however, produced guidance for schools on developing school uniform policy. This guidance states that schools should make discreet enquiries in cases where a pupil is not adhering to the school uniform policy as there may be a number of valid reasons as to why and in such circumstances it may not be appropriate for schools to send a child home. The advice also states that schools should be sensitive to a situation where financial circumstances are preventing pupils from wearing the correct uniform.
The guidance can be accessed on the Department’s website: https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201104-guidance-schools-school-uniform-policy-revised-5-june-2018
The Department has also addressed the matter of school uniforms in the Education Restart guidance on the safe reopening of educational settings and schools have been encouraged to consider the views of parents, pupils and the school community and to show flexibility around the issue of school uniforms in these extraordinary times to avoid creating additional pressure or expense on parents.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015725%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329492"}},{"id":"329491","reference":"AQW 15724/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-03","answerBy":"2021-03-19","answered":"2021-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the online Stress Control classes provided up to December 2020 will continue in 2021; and when the website will be updated.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) has commissioned online Stress Control classes since April 2020 and to date, over 103,000 people have watched the programmes. These classes will continue to be delivered online on a monthly basis until June 2021 initially.\n\nDetails of classes are currently detailed on the stress control website and can be viewed at https://ni.stresscontrol.org/dates/","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) has commissioned online Stress Control classes since April 2020 and to date, over 103,000 people have watched the programmes. These classes will continue to be delivered online on a monthly basis until June 2021 initially.
Details of classes are currently detailed on the stress control website and can be viewed at https://ni.stresscontrol.org/dates/
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015724%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329491"}},{"id":"329490","reference":"AQW 15723/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-03","answerBy":"2021-03-19","answered":"2021-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following her British Irish Council Spatial Planning and Housing statement on 1 March 2021, whether she will revisit proposals to support investment in over the shop residential development to encourage town and village centre living.","answerText":"I refer the Member to my response to AQW 12785 /17-22 which was answered on 1st February 2021.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to my response to AQW 12785 /17-22 which was answered on 1st February 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015723%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329490","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329490"}},{"id":"329489","reference":"AQW 15722/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-03","answerBy":"2021-03-19","answered":"2021-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 14236/17-22, when legal action will be taken to ensure repair and maintenance of Kircubbin Harbour is completed.","answerText":"Under the Historic Monuments and Archaeological Objects (NI) Order 1995, my Department has no power to take punitive action against someone who has allowed a monument in their ownership to decay. It has discretionary powers to intervene and carry out work itself ‘if it appears to the Department that any works are urgently necessary for the protection of a scheduled monument.’ (Article 7).\n\nAt present, my Department does not intend to take on this responsibility as we believe that working with the owner and other interested parties is more likely to enable a more sustainable future for the harbour. Our primary role in relation to any potential implementation of future work is therefore in an advice and regulatory capacity around informing and consenting conservation works there.\n\nI have instructed my officials to make fresh contact with relevant groups and individuals to see what progress could be made.","answerHtml":"Under the Historic Monuments and Archaeological Objects (NI) Order 1995, my Department has no power to take punitive action against someone who has allowed a monument in their ownership to decay. It has discretionary powers to intervene and carry out work itself ‘if it appears to the Department that any works are urgently necessary for the protection of a scheduled monument.’ (Article 7).
At present, my Department does not intend to take on this responsibility as we believe that working with the owner and other interested parties is more likely to enable a more sustainable future for the harbour. Our primary role in relation to any potential implementation of future work is therefore in an advice and regulatory capacity around informing and consenting conservation works there.
I have instructed my officials to make fresh contact with relevant groups and individuals to see what progress could be made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015722%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329489"}},{"id":"329488","reference":"AQW 15721/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-03","answerBy":"2021-03-19","answered":"2021-03-19","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 Programme for Government Housing Outcome agreed during New Decade, New Approach; and when their Department will provide details confirming the indicators proposed to deliver this cross-cutting objective.","answerText":"Housing has been identified as key priority area within the Programme for Government draft Outcomes Framework which has been published for consultation. The provision of suitable housing for everyone features prominently in three of the nine wellbeing Outcomes.\n\nThe public consultation, which commenced on 25 January, is an important first step in the development process for the new Programme. The aim is to have an agreed Outcomes Framework with a suite of population Indicators by around the end of April, and a more complete Programme incorporating an agreed budget linked to policies and programmes ready by the summer.","answerHtml":"Housing has been identified as key priority area within the Programme for Government draft Outcomes Framework which has been published for consultation. The provision of suitable housing for everyone features prominently in three of the nine wellbeing Outcomes.
The public consultation, which commenced on 25 January, is an important first step in the development process for the new Programme. The aim is to have an agreed Outcomes Framework with a suite of population Indicators by around the end of April, and a more complete Programme incorporating an agreed budget linked to policies and programmes ready by the summer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015721%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329488","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329488"}},{"id":"347675","reference":"AQO 1697/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-25","answerBy":"2021-03-08","answered":"2021-03-23","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 implementation of the Racial Equality Strategy 2015 - 2025.","answerText":"We want this to be a truly shared, equal and safe society for all our people, regardless of race or ethnicity. We therefore remain committed to the full implementation of the Racial Equality Strategy.\n\nProgress has been made on a number of the key actions. For example, we have completed a review of the Minority Ethnic Development Fund (MEDF) to ensure it best supports local groups to promote good relations between people of different ethnic backgrounds. As a first step to implementing the recommendations the Fund was launched earlier this year and applicants have been notified of the outcome.\n\nWe have reviewed the Race Relations Order and are now preparing options for enhancing the legislation. The Racial Equality Subgroup has been engaged in this work to inform final options which we intend to consult this year.\n\nAlongside this, the research into the feasibility of introducing ethnic monitoring has completed and we are now in receipt of the final report. This will require extensive engagement with departments and agencies to consider how best to take forward the recommendations and early engagement has commenced.\n\nWe will also shortly be consulting on a draft Refugee Integration Strategy.\n\nWe are under no illusion about the size of the challenge involved in tackling racial inequalities and it will require all of society to play their part. We will therefore continue to work with our Ministerial colleagues and stakeholders to drive this forward.","answerHtml":"We want this to be a truly shared, equal and safe society for all our people, regardless of race or ethnicity. We therefore remain committed to the full implementation of the Racial Equality Strategy.
Progress has been made on a number of the key actions. For example, we have completed a review of the Minority Ethnic Development Fund (MEDF) to ensure it best supports local groups to promote good relations between people of different ethnic backgrounds. As a first step to implementing the recommendations the Fund was launched earlier this year and applicants have been notified of the outcome.
We have reviewed the Race Relations Order and are now preparing options for enhancing the legislation. The Racial Equality Subgroup has been engaged in this work to inform final options which we intend to consult this year.
Alongside this, the research into the feasibility of introducing ethnic monitoring has completed and we are now in receipt of the final report. This will require extensive engagement with departments and agencies to consider how best to take forward the recommendations and early engagement has commenced.
We will also shortly be consulting on a draft Refugee Integration Strategy.
We are under no illusion about the size of the challenge involved in tackling racial inequalities and it will require all of society to play their part. We will therefore continue to work with our Ministerial colleagues and stakeholders to drive this forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201697%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=347675","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=347675"}},{"id":"327902","reference":"AQW 15214/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-23","answerBy":"2021-03-10","answered":"2021-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what steps her Department is taking to address the backlog of personal independence payment claims; and what measures are in place to make sure that no one has their money stopped due to the backlog.","answerText":"Despite the challenges arising from the pandemic, there is no backlog in processing new claims to Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The most recent PIP statistics, published on 24 February 2021 and covering up to 30 November 2020, show that the average clearance time taken to process a PIP is 13 weeks, which is similar to the time taken prior to the pandemic\n\nThe period of 13 weeks, includes the time taken for a claimant to return their Part 2 'How your disability affects you' form. Claimants are given up to 6 weeks to complete this form, or longer if additional time is requested.\n\nWhen PIP reviews were restarted back in July last year I extended all existing PIP awards by 9 Months as an additional safeguard due to the uncertainty of the pandemic. This allows additional time for reviews to be completed without the risk of PIP payments ending.\n\nWe are committed to providing all the support and help people need in these very difficult times.","answerHtml":"Despite the challenges arising from the pandemic, there is no backlog in processing new claims to Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The most recent PIP statistics, published on 24 February 2021 and covering up to 30 November 2020, show that the average clearance time taken to process a PIP is 13 weeks, which is similar to the time taken prior to the pandemic
The period of 13 weeks, includes the time taken for a claimant to return their Part 2 'How your disability affects you' form. Claimants are given up to 6 weeks to complete this form, or longer if additional time is requested.
When PIP reviews were restarted back in July last year I extended all existing PIP awards by 9 Months as an additional safeguard due to the uncertainty of the pandemic. This allows additional time for reviews to be completed without the risk of PIP payments ending.
We are committed to providing all the support and help people need in these very difficult times.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015214%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327902","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327902"}},{"id":"327901","reference":"AQW 15213/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-23","answerBy":"2021-03-10","answered":"2021-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the percentage of licensed operators who successfully applied for the (i) Coronavirus support schemes: (ii) Taxi Drivers Financial Assistance Scheme 2021; and (iii) the Bus Operator Financial Assistance Scheme.","answerText":"My Department does not hold information about licensed Taxi and Bus operators who applied for Coronavirus support schemes administered by other Departments.\n\nLicensed taxi operators are eligible for the Department for Economy CBRSS Part B Scheme.\n\nIn relation to the Bus Operator Financial Assistance Scheme, there were 210 licensed bus operators at 31 December 2020. There were 140 valid applications to the first DfI financial assistance scheme and of these 99 were eligible for payment. The main reason for ineligibility is that some operators are still profitmaking, despite a decline in business. The scheme has been set up to provide funding only when losses have been incurred, to target help to those most in need and ensure value for money.\n\nA second financial assistance scheme for the bus and coach sector will be launched shortly.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold information about licensed Taxi and Bus operators who applied for Coronavirus support schemes administered by other Departments.
Licensed taxi operators are eligible for the Department for Economy CBRSS Part B Scheme.
In relation to the Bus Operator Financial Assistance Scheme, there were 210 licensed bus operators at 31 December 2020. There were 140 valid applications to the first DfI financial assistance scheme and of these 99 were eligible for payment. The main reason for ineligibility is that some operators are still profitmaking, despite a decline in business. The scheme has been set up to provide funding only when losses have been incurred, to target help to those most in need and ensure value for money.
A second financial assistance scheme for the bus and coach sector will be launched shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015213%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327901","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327901"}},{"id":"327900","reference":"AQW 15212/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-23","answerBy":"2021-03-10","answered":"2021-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when people who live with Spinal Muscular Atrophy will have confirmation that the final administrative sign-off for an Early Access Medicines Scheme application for the medication Risdiplam has been completed.","answerText":"The Belfast Health and Social Care Trust has an approved Early Access Medicines Scheme (EAMS) in place for risdiplam, subject to inclusion criteria and governance arrangements, which have now been agreed and communicated to patients. The Trust has assured me that clinically suitable patients will begin to receive treatment within the next number of weeks, with individual treatment pathways agreed by 9 March 2021 and a communication/engagement plan established thereafter, to ensure a smooth transition onto the risdiplam EAMS scheme as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"The Belfast Health and Social Care Trust has an approved Early Access Medicines Scheme (EAMS) in place for risdiplam, subject to inclusion criteria and governance arrangements, which have now been agreed and communicated to patients. The Trust has assured me that clinically suitable patients will begin to receive treatment within the next number of weeks, with individual treatment pathways agreed by 9 March 2021 and a communication/engagement plan established thereafter, to ensure a smooth transition onto the risdiplam EAMS scheme as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015212%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327900","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327900"}},{"id":"327221","reference":"AQW 14952/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-18","answerBy":"2021-03-05","answered":"2021-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what consideration she has given to the advice from the Independent Scientific Advisory Group when looking at the welfare mitigation review.","answerText":"I can advise that the proposals are currently under consideration by officials. The Department will need to carefully consider the legal and operational challenges and the projected cost of delivering the proposed payment scheme, which will need to consider any operational costs.\n\nConsiderations will be separate from the upcoming welfare mitigations review, which will focus on the feasibility of introducing new mitigation measures.","answerHtml":"I can advise that the proposals are currently under consideration by officials. The Department will need to carefully consider the legal and operational challenges and the projected cost of delivering the proposed payment scheme, which will need to consider any operational costs.
Considerations will be separate from the upcoming welfare mitigations review, which will focus on the feasibility of introducing new mitigation measures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014952%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327221"}},{"id":"327220","reference":"AQW 14951/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-18","answerBy":"2021-03-05","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the criteria given to advisors who are administering the discretionary support isolation grant.","answerText":"The criteria applied by advisors when assessing applications for the Discretionary Support Self-Isolation grant is drawn from the Discretionary Support Regulations and set out as follows;\n\nPersons applying for a self- isolation grant must satisfy the following criteria:\n\nyou are in financial difficulty\n\nyou or a member of your immediate family has been diagnosed with COVID-19 or\n\nyou or a member of your immediate family has advised to self-isolate in accordance with guidance published by the Regional Agency for Public Health and Social Well-being.\n\nyou are living here\n\nyou are 18 or over (there are some exceptions if you are 16 or 17)\n\nyour income or in the case of a couple your joint income is £20,404.80 or less (some forms of income will be excluded from this calculation)\n\nThere are some groups who are unable to apply for a self-isolation grant, these include:\n\nprisoners or a person who is lawfully detained or on temporary release\n\na resident in a residential care home, a nursing home or a hospital in-patient unless you are going to be discharged within the next 2 weeks\n\na member of a religious order who is fully maintained by that order;\n\nanyone who has their passport stamped “No recourse to public funds”\n\nFurther information on the criteria is available through the following link on NI Direct;\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/extra-financial-support","answerHtml":"The criteria applied by advisors when assessing applications for the Discretionary Support Self-Isolation grant is drawn from the Discretionary Support Regulations and set out as follows;
Persons applying for a self- isolation grant must satisfy the following criteria:
you are in financial difficulty
you or a member of your immediate family has been diagnosed with COVID-19 or
you or a member of your immediate family has advised to self-isolate in accordance with guidance published by the Regional Agency for Public Health and Social Well-being.
you are living here
you are 18 or over (there are some exceptions if you are 16 or 17)
your income or in the case of a couple your joint income is £20,404.80 or less (some forms of income will be excluded from this calculation)
There are some groups who are unable to apply for a self-isolation grant, these include:
prisoners or a person who is lawfully detained or on temporary release
a resident in a residential care home, a nursing home or a hospital in-patient unless you are going to be discharged within the next 2 weeks
a member of a religious order who is fully maintained by that order;
anyone who has their passport stamped “No recourse to public funds”
Further information on the criteria is available through the following link on NI Direct;
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/extra-financial-support
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014951%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327220","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327220"}},{"id":"329148","reference":"AQO 1650/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-18","answerBy":"2021-03-01","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she intends to move the Half Fare SmartPass Scheme to a full fare concession.","answerText":"I fully recognise the role that concessionary travel can play in opening up access to public transport, enabling those within our communities to better connect with people and opportunities, and the value that our communities attach to concessionary travel.\n\nI have engaged with groups campaigning for change to the Concessionary Fares Scheme, including those advocating extending free travel to those groups presently in receipt of half fare travel. This is something I am keen to consider, however given the ongoing underfunding of the Concessionary Fares Scheme, it is not a decision I can make lightly.\n\nI understand that extending free travel to these groups would be welcomed by those groups affected. Such a move would benefit particularly vulnerable groups and support a number of outcomes within the Programme for Government.\n\nIn considering any extension of the Scheme, I have to consider the equality issues associated with any such decision, as well as the affordability considerations. These are particularly pertinent given that the Scheme has been underfunded in each of the last five years and any further concessions would compound the situation. I have engaged with the Finance Minister on this issue.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise the role that concessionary travel can play in opening up access to public transport, enabling those within our communities to better connect with people and opportunities, and the value that our communities attach to concessionary travel.
I have engaged with groups campaigning for change to the Concessionary Fares Scheme, including those advocating extending free travel to those groups presently in receipt of half fare travel. This is something I am keen to consider, however given the ongoing underfunding of the Concessionary Fares Scheme, it is not a decision I can make lightly.
I understand that extending free travel to these groups would be welcomed by those groups affected. Such a move would benefit particularly vulnerable groups and support a number of outcomes within the Programme for Government.
In considering any extension of the Scheme, I have to consider the equality issues associated with any such decision, as well as the affordability considerations. These are particularly pertinent given that the Scheme has been underfunded in each of the last five years and any further concessions would compound the situation. I have engaged with the Finance Minister on this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201650%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329148","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329148"}},{"id":"326699","reference":"AQW 14665/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-15","answerBy":"2021-03-02","answered":"2021-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what discussions she has had with the UK Government to extend the deadline for the EU settlement scheme.","answerText":"The Executive Office continue to liaise with the Home Office regarding the position of this Scheme.","answerHtml":"The Executive Office continue to liaise with the Home Office regarding the position of this Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014665%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326699","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326699"}},{"id":"326698","reference":"AQW 14664/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-15","answerBy":"2021-03-02","answered":"2021-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, given the number of vehicles ending up in Strangford Lough or hitting stone walls, (i) what action her Department is taking to reduce the number of crashes on the A20 Portaferry Road; and (ii) why crash barriers have not been installed along this stretch of road.","answerText":"I am aware of the recent incidents on the Portaferry Road and my officials will consider the findings of the investigations being undertaken by the PSNI and in particular any issues identified that fall within the remit of my Department.\n\nI am advised that the Department has introduced a number of traffic management measures along the A20 Portaferry Road over the past 15 years including new road markings, warning signage, reflector posts and edge of carriageway road studs.\n\nAll requests for improvements to the road network, including a large minor works scheme to provide a vehicle restraint system, are assessed in line with DfI’s current policies and guidance. All works are subject to prioritisation, with all viable proposals competing for the limited funding currently available.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the recent incidents on the Portaferry Road and my officials will consider the findings of the investigations being undertaken by the PSNI and in particular any issues identified that fall within the remit of my Department.
I am advised that the Department has introduced a number of traffic management measures along the A20 Portaferry Road over the past 15 years including new road markings, warning signage, reflector posts and edge of carriageway road studs.
All requests for improvements to the road network, including a large minor works scheme to provide a vehicle restraint system, are assessed in line with DfI’s current policies and guidance. All works are subject to prioritisation, with all viable proposals competing for the limited funding currently available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014664%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326698","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326698"}},{"id":"326697","reference":"AQW 14663/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-15","answerBy":"2021-03-02","answered":"2021-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation notices for people with learning disabilities who have COVID-19 have been issued since March 2020; and what action he has taken to ensure such notices are not issued for people with learning disabilities with COVID-19.","answerText":"Information on Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation notices for people with learning disabilities who have COVID-19 issued since March 2020 is not available.\n\nEstablished clinical and professional guidance is available to support clinicians in decision-making and providing quality treatment and care for all patients towards the end of life. This includes the General Medical Council’s ‘Treatment and care towards the end of life: good practice in decision making’ which outlines key principles and models to underpin decision-making, including decisions relating to cardiopulmonary resuscitation and The British Medical Association, Resuscitation Council and the Royal College of Nursing guidance ‘Decisions relating to Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation’. Policies to support decision-making in relation to cardiopulmonary resuscitation in Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland reflect the principles set out in this guidance and apply to all patients (whether with or without a learning disability) with decisions made on an individual basis taking into account the relevant professional and legal frameworks. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Guidelines such as NG142 End of Life Care for Adults and NG31 Care of Dying Patients in the Last Days of Life also provide guidance for clinicians.\n\nA Regional Ethical Advice and Support Framework for Northern Ireland has been developed and published to assist and support clinical decision making during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Framework was developed by the regional HSC Clinical Ethics Forum, with membership drawn from a wide range of clinicians from health and social care, representatives from HSC Trust Clinical Ethics Committees, representatives from the Critical Care Network, Palliative Care in Partnership and the Frailty Network, as well as a range of lay members including hospital chaplains. The Forum also engaged with a number of interested parties (such as the Patient and Client Council and NI Ambulance Service) and reference groups (such as Disability Action and the Alzheimer’s Society) at different points in the development of the Framework.\n\nThe Framework sets out a series of ethical principles in a rights-based approach and applies at all levels of health and social care delivery in Northern Ireland, in hospitals, care homes and the community. The Framework notes that clinical decisions should continue to be guided by the codes of professional practice as well as available evidence and provides links to relevant legislation on human rights, disability, equality and consent. Importantly, it re-emphasises that all clinical staff are required to act in accordance with professional guidance and with their legal obligations.\n\nThe Framework also includes practical guidance that considers a range of issues and settings such as advance care planning, decisions around resuscitation, access to critical care, care homes, end of life, visiting and mental health. This is a live document which is updated as new information becomes available. A link to the latest version of the Framework (September 2020) is provided below.\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/COVID-19-Guidance-Ethical-Advice-and-Support%20Framework.pdf\n\nIt is important to stress that blanket decisions about CPR based solely on age, disability or a senior clinician’s view of quality of life are discriminatory and unethical. All treatment decisions must be individual to each patient and follow the relevant professional and legal frameworks. This principle is clearly set out in the professional guidance noted above and also in the regional Ethical Advice and Support Framework for Northern Ireland.\n\nA Joint Statement issued by the Royal College of General Practitioners, British Medical Association, Care Providers Alliance and Care Quality Commission on 1st April 2020 reiterated that it was unacceptable for advance care plans, with or without a decision on resuscitation, to be applied to groups of people of any description and that any such decisions must be made on an individual basis.\n\nDecisions about cardiopulmonary resuscitation are best made as part of a holistic approach to advance care planning which includes timely, honest and sensitive discussions with a person to identify their wishes, feelings, beliefs and values for their future care including, where they are content to discuss this, their wishes in relation to cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the event of a cardiac or respiratory arrest.\n\nWork is underway to develop an advance care planning policy for adults in Northern Ireland. This is a key element of a wider public health approach to palliative care. The policy will be underpinned with supporting documentation, staff training and public messaging.","answerHtml":"Information on Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation notices for people with learning disabilities who have COVID-19 issued since March 2020 is not available.
Established clinical and professional guidance is available to support clinicians in decision-making and providing quality treatment and care for all patients towards the end of life. This includes the General Medical Council’s ‘Treatment and care towards the end of life: good practice in decision making’ which outlines key principles and models to underpin decision-making, including decisions relating to cardiopulmonary resuscitation and The British Medical Association, Resuscitation Council and the Royal College of Nursing guidance ‘Decisions relating to Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation’. Policies to support decision-making in relation to cardiopulmonary resuscitation in Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland reflect the principles set out in this guidance and apply to all patients (whether with or without a learning disability) with decisions made on an individual basis taking into account the relevant professional and legal frameworks. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Guidelines such as NG142 End of Life Care for Adults and NG31 Care of Dying Patients in the Last Days of Life also provide guidance for clinicians.
A Regional Ethical Advice and Support Framework for Northern Ireland has been developed and published to assist and support clinical decision making during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Framework was developed by the regional HSC Clinical Ethics Forum, with membership drawn from a wide range of clinicians from health and social care, representatives from HSC Trust Clinical Ethics Committees, representatives from the Critical Care Network, Palliative Care in Partnership and the Frailty Network, as well as a range of lay members including hospital chaplains. The Forum also engaged with a number of interested parties (such as the Patient and Client Council and NI Ambulance Service) and reference groups (such as Disability Action and the Alzheimer’s Society) at different points in the development of the Framework.
The Framework sets out a series of ethical principles in a rights-based approach and applies at all levels of health and social care delivery in Northern Ireland, in hospitals, care homes and the community. The Framework notes that clinical decisions should continue to be guided by the codes of professional practice as well as available evidence and provides links to relevant legislation on human rights, disability, equality and consent. Importantly, it re-emphasises that all clinical staff are required to act in accordance with professional guidance and with their legal obligations.
The Framework also includes practical guidance that considers a range of issues and settings such as advance care planning, decisions around resuscitation, access to critical care, care homes, end of life, visiting and mental health. This is a live document which is updated as new information becomes available. A link to the latest version of the Framework (September 2020) is provided below.
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/COVID-19-Guidance-Ethical-Advice-and-Support%20Framework.pdf
It is important to stress that blanket decisions about CPR based solely on age, disability or a senior clinician’s view of quality of life are discriminatory and unethical. All treatment decisions must be individual to each patient and follow the relevant professional and legal frameworks. This principle is clearly set out in the professional guidance noted above and also in the regional Ethical Advice and Support Framework for Northern Ireland.
A Joint Statement issued by the Royal College of General Practitioners, British Medical Association, Care Providers Alliance and Care Quality Commission on 1st April 2020 reiterated that it was unacceptable for advance care plans, with or without a decision on resuscitation, to be applied to groups of people of any description and that any such decisions must be made on an individual basis.
Decisions about cardiopulmonary resuscitation are best made as part of a holistic approach to advance care planning which includes timely, honest and sensitive discussions with a person to identify their wishes, feelings, beliefs and values for their future care including, where they are content to discuss this, their wishes in relation to cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the event of a cardiac or respiratory arrest.
Work is underway to develop an advance care planning policy for adults in Northern Ireland. This is a key element of a wider public health approach to palliative care. The policy will be underpinned with supporting documentation, staff training and public messaging.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014663%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326697","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326697"}},{"id":"326696","reference":"AQW 14662/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-15","answerBy":"2021-03-02","answered":"2021-04-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions her Department is taking to ensure that people eligible for the EU Settlement Scheme have the opportunity to apply.","answerText":"My officials are working with DWP and others with a view to issuing letters to existing benefit claimants who are eligible for the Scheme but have not yet applied. This will remind people of the requirement to submit an application to the Scheme before the 30th June 2021 deadline and help ensure they can continue to receive benefits to which they are currently entitled. The letter will direct people to further information about how to apply for the Scheme.\n\nIn addition, Advice NI, the Department’s delivery partner and eleven member organisations are delivering support to EU, EEA and Swiss nationals and their family members to assist them in applying to the EU Settlement Scheme.","answerHtml":"My officials are working with DWP and others with a view to issuing letters to existing benefit claimants who are eligible for the Scheme but have not yet applied. This will remind people of the requirement to submit an application to the Scheme before the 30th June 2021 deadline and help ensure they can continue to receive benefits to which they are currently entitled. The letter will direct people to further information about how to apply for the Scheme.
In addition, Advice NI, the Department’s delivery partner and eleven member organisations are delivering support to EU, EEA and Swiss nationals and their family members to assist them in applying to the EU Settlement Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014662%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326696","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326696"}},{"id":"326695","reference":"AQW 14661/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-15","answerBy":"2021-03-02","answered":"2021-04-14","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 what discussions there have been with the UK Government to take into account the disruption COVID-19 is having across Northern Ireland and the need to extend the deadline for the EU Settlement Scheme.","answerText":"The EU Settlement Scheme is a UK Government scheme. Our officials have however been working with their counterparts since the launch of the scheme and proactive engagement will continue as we enter the last few months\n\nWe very much want our valued EU citizens to apply to the scheme and be able to remain here. To encourage uptake, we have supplemented the Home Office’s communication campaign. Since September 2020, digital advertising has been running to encourage EU citizens to apply to the scheme. To date, across all digital channels there have been over 6 million impressions (number of times the advert appears on screen) and 47,500 clicks to nidirect.com for more information. In the coming weeks there will be increased activity including TV, digital radio and out-of-home advertising.\n\nOur officials have also raised the challenges around ensuring all those eligible apply by the deadline and requested consideration of an extension to the scheme, particularly given the impact of covid.\n\nIn the absence of an extension we have highlighted the need for flexibility post 30th June and are awaiting confirmation from the Home Office of its approach for those who have not applied by the closing date of the Scheme.","answerHtml":"The EU Settlement Scheme is a UK Government scheme. Our officials have however been working with their counterparts since the launch of the scheme and proactive engagement will continue as we enter the last few months
We very much want our valued EU citizens to apply to the scheme and be able to remain here. To encourage uptake, we have supplemented the Home Office’s communication campaign. Since September 2020, digital advertising has been running to encourage EU citizens to apply to the scheme. To date, across all digital channels there have been over 6 million impressions (number of times the advert appears on screen) and 47,500 clicks to nidirect.com for more information. In the coming weeks there will be increased activity including TV, digital radio and out-of-home advertising.
Our officials have also raised the challenges around ensuring all those eligible apply by the deadline and requested consideration of an extension to the scheme, particularly given the impact of covid.
In the absence of an extension we have highlighted the need for flexibility post 30th June and are awaiting confirmation from the Home Office of its approach for those who have not applied by the closing date of the Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014661%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326695","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326695"}},{"id":"329887","reference":"AQO 1605/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-11","answerBy":"2021-02-22","answered":"2021-03-03","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 when the legislation will be brought forward for the creation of the Irish Language and Ulster Scots/Ulster British Commissioners, as outlined in part 2, paragraph 27 of New Decade, New Approach.","answerText":"We are committed to the development and implementation of the rights, language and identity proposals contained in New Decade, New Approach.\n\nOur Officials continue with the preparatory work, to legislate for core elements of the ‘Rights, Language and Identity’ Framework contained in New Decade, New Approach.\n\nIt is our intention to progress these proposals during this mandate and to create the relevant bodies as quickly as possible thereafter.\n\nThe delivery of these priorities will be important in building our shared future based on mutual respect and parity of esteem.\n\nWe will keep the Assembly updated on progress.","answerHtml":"We are committed to the development and implementation of the rights, language and identity proposals contained in New Decade, New Approach.
Our Officials continue with the preparatory work, to legislate for core elements of the ‘Rights, Language and Identity’ Framework contained in New Decade, New Approach.
It is our intention to progress these proposals during this mandate and to create the relevant bodies as quickly as possible thereafter.
The delivery of these priorities will be important in building our shared future based on mutual respect and parity of esteem.
We will keep the Assembly updated on progress.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201605%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329887","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329887"}},{"id":"325753","reference":"AQW 14239/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-08","answerBy":"2021-02-23","answered":"2021-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what information has been provided to Boards of Governors regarding the conditions of agreed Development Plans.","answerText":"Initial contact with a school following my decision on a Development Proposal is simply to advise what the decision is and that it, and the recommendations presented to me, will be published to the Department’s website. At that stage no discussion of wider Departmental policies or practices that may impact on implementation is undertaken.","answerHtml":"Initial contact with a school following my decision on a Development Proposal is simply to advise what the decision is and that it, and the recommendations presented to me, will be published to the Department’s website. At that stage no discussion of wider Departmental policies or practices that may impact on implementation is undertaken.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014239%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325753"}},{"id":"325752","reference":"AQW 14238/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-08","answerBy":"2021-02-23","answered":"2021-03-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what percentage of the clinically extremely vulnerable group, including people with cystic fibrosis, have received their first COVID-19 vaccination.","answerText":"It is not possible to state with certainty the total number of clinically extremely vulnerable people vaccinated prior to Priority Group 4 by reason of their age. The member will be aware there will be overlap between age cohorts and the clinically extremely vulnerable.\n\nHowever, to date, 46,131 people identified as clinically extremely vulnerable have been vaccinated with a first dose and 2,424 people have had their second dose.","answerHtml":"It is not possible to state with certainty the total number of clinically extremely vulnerable people vaccinated prior to Priority Group 4 by reason of their age. The member will be aware there will be overlap between age cohorts and the clinically extremely vulnerable.
However, to date, 46,131 people identified as clinically extremely vulnerable have been vaccinated with a first dose and 2,424 people have had their second dose.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014238%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325752","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325752"}},{"id":"325751","reference":"AQW 14237/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-08","answerBy":"2021-02-23","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what plans are in place to support young deaf people into work, given there is no planned start date for JobStart and no funding has been allocated to roll-out this scheme in 2021/22 through her Department or through local councils.","answerText":"I am committed to working hard to ensure the necessary resources are targeted towards all of those who are most in need.\n\nThe Department’s existing range of work preparation and in work support programmes remain available to people with disabilities who wish to enter employment, need assistance to retain their job or indeed to progress in their career. These include Workable NI, Access to Work, Condition Management Programme, and the range of European Social Fund provision funded by the Department.\n\nWork Coach teams in Jobs & Benefits offices continue to provide tailored employability support for people of all ages including individuals with disabilities.\n\nIn normal circumstances, Work Coaches can provide support for young people with hearing disabilities to move into work by using the Access to Work provision or through local disability employability providers. Each office has built close links with local providers across a range of complex needs to ensure that there is awareness of the full range of local services. In addition, where work experience might be beneficial, local Employment Advisers will seek opportunities for work experience with local employers to suit the young person’s individual circumstances.","answerHtml":"I am committed to working hard to ensure the necessary resources are targeted towards all of those who are most in need.
The Department’s existing range of work preparation and in work support programmes remain available to people with disabilities who wish to enter employment, need assistance to retain their job or indeed to progress in their career. These include Workable NI, Access to Work, Condition Management Programme, and the range of European Social Fund provision funded by the Department.
Work Coach teams in Jobs & Benefits offices continue to provide tailored employability support for people of all ages including individuals with disabilities.
In normal circumstances, Work Coaches can provide support for young people with hearing disabilities to move into work by using the Access to Work provision or through local disability employability providers. Each office has built close links with local providers across a range of complex needs to ensure that there is awareness of the full range of local services. In addition, where work experience might be beneficial, local Employment Advisers will seek opportunities for work experience with local employers to suit the young person’s individual circumstances.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014237%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325751","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325751"}},{"id":"325750","reference":"AQW 14236/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-08","answerBy":"2021-02-23","answered":"2021-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of historical assets in private hands, that the Historic Environment section has not been able to take action to protect due to lack of funding for legal challenges from 2016 to date.","answerText":"I am not aware of any occasions on which Historic Environment Division has been prevented from taking action regarding historic assets in private hands, due to lack of funding for legal challenges during that time period.","answerHtml":"I am not aware of any occasions on which Historic Environment Division has been prevented from taking action regarding historic assets in private hands, due to lack of funding for legal challenges during that time period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014236%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325750","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325750"}},{"id":"325749","reference":"AQW 14235/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-08","answerBy":"2021-02-23","answered":"2021-02-26","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 Appeals Service backlog; and whether there will be any financial support for those who are waiting on an appeal decision due to the delays.","answerText":"My Department continues to list the benefit appeals for hearing despite the challenges faced as a result of the pandemic. In order to maximise listing capacity The Appeals Service (TAS) has introduced additional options for case listing. Appellants can now choose to have their appeal listed on the papers, by telephone, video link or face to face. Paper hearings and remote hearings are listed consistently in response to demand.\n\nA number of venues have been identified and adapted to ensure they are COVID secure for all parties to attend a physical hearing while work is continuing to find additional venues to list benefit appeal hearings.\n\nHearings in these venues commenced in December 2020 and January 2021 but in response to the new restrictions announced, the President of the Appeals Service has postponed face to face hearing until the end of February 2021 when it will be reviewed in light of the advice available.\n\nCustomers receiving a Welfare Supplementary Payment who have an ongoing appeal following reassessment from DLA are not affected by the delay in appeal hearings as the Welfare Supplementary Payment regulations stipulate that this must remain in payment until the decision of the appeal tribunal is received by the Department.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to list the benefit appeals for hearing despite the challenges faced as a result of the pandemic. In order to maximise listing capacity The Appeals Service (TAS) has introduced additional options for case listing. Appellants can now choose to have their appeal listed on the papers, by telephone, video link or face to face. Paper hearings and remote hearings are listed consistently in response to demand.
A number of venues have been identified and adapted to ensure they are COVID secure for all parties to attend a physical hearing while work is continuing to find additional venues to list benefit appeal hearings.
Hearings in these venues commenced in December 2020 and January 2021 but in response to the new restrictions announced, the President of the Appeals Service has postponed face to face hearing until the end of February 2021 when it will be reviewed in light of the advice available.
Customers receiving a Welfare Supplementary Payment who have an ongoing appeal following reassessment from DLA are not affected by the delay in appeal hearings as the Welfare Supplementary Payment regulations stipulate that this must remain in payment until the decision of the appeal tribunal is received by the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014235%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325749","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325749"}},{"id":"325445","reference":"AQW 14146/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-05","answerBy":"2021-02-15","answered":"2021-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) his decision to turn down Strangford Integrated College’s development proposal; and (ii) why Judge Treacy’s rulings, that emphasised integrated education is a standalone concept and applications for growth ought not to be considered in light of falling numbers in catholic maintained or controlled schools, was not followed.","answerText":"My decision, and the rationale for it, is published in full on the Department’s website and is accessible at the following link: https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/dp-622-strangford-integrated-college-0\n\nAs my decision makes clear, impacts on other schools was not the sole reason not to approve the Development Proposal. I also referenced future population numbers as a factor and use of Temporary Variation arrangements to manage any required changes.","answerHtml":"My decision, and the rationale for it, is published in full on the Department’s website and is accessible at the following link: https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/dp-622-strangford-integrated-college-0
As my decision makes clear, impacts on other schools was not the sole reason not to approve the Development Proposal. I also referenced future population numbers as a factor and use of Temporary Variation arrangements to manage any required changes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014146%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325445","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325445"}},{"id":"325444","reference":"AQW 14145/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-05","answerBy":"2021-02-22","answered":"2021-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail planned growth funding, broken down by (i) type of school; (ii) amount received; and (iii) the number of additional pupils per development plan, per year since April 2016, including awards made to date in 2020/21.","answerText":"The table below provides details of the amount of in-year growth funding provided to schools that have approved development proposals (DPs), broken down by (i) type of school; (ii) amount received; and (iii) the number of additional pupils funded, from 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2020.\n\nFunding for the 2020-21 financial year will be determined by the Education Authority, as funding authority for grant aided schools, following validation of the October 2020 Census, in line with the normal funding arrangements. This has still to be completed.\n\nThe number of additional pupils enrolled as part of an approved DP will not always be the same as the approved enrolment set out in a given DP. Therefore, in effort to answer your question, the number of pupils attracting in-year growth funding in all schools (by school type) with approved DPs has been provided.\n\nIn-year growth funding allocated to schools with approved development proposals\n2016-17\t2017-18\t2018-19\t2019-20\nSchool Type\tNo. of Pupils Funded\t£000s\tNo. of Pupils\nFunded\t£000s\tNo. of Pupils\nFunded\t£000s\tNo. of Pupils\nFunded\t£000s\nControlled\t35\t64.5\t39\t52.6\t117\t246.6\t116\t251.8\nMaintained\t64\t94.7\t78\t123.4\t233\t456.9\t203\t414.3\nGrant Maintained Integrated\t172\t379.8\t284\t511.4\t363\t662.9\t151\t326.1\nVoluntary Grammar\t6\t1.3\t38\t98.7\t227\t450.3\t35\t105.9\nTotal\t277\t540.3\t439\t786.1\t940\t1,816.7\t505\t1,098.1","answerHtml":"The table below provides details of the amount of in-year growth funding provided to schools that have approved development proposals (DPs), broken down by (i) type of school; (ii) amount received; and (iii) the number of additional pupils funded, from 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2020.
Funding for the 2020-21 financial year will be determined by the Education Authority, as funding authority for grant aided schools, following validation of the October 2020 Census, in line with the normal funding arrangements. This has still to be completed.
The number of additional pupils enrolled as part of an approved DP will not always be the same as the approved enrolment set out in a given DP. Therefore, in effort to answer your question, the number of pupils attracting in-year growth funding in all schools (by school type) with approved DPs has been provided.
| In-year growth funding allocated to schools with approved development proposals | ||||||||
| 2016-17 | 2017-18 | 2018-19 | 2019-20 | |||||
| School Type | No. of Pupils Funded | £000s | No. of Pupils Funded | £000s | No. of Pupils Funded | £000s | No. of Pupils Funded | £000s |
| Controlled | 35 | 64.5 | 39 | 52.6 | 117 | 246.6 | 116 | 251.8 |
| Maintained | 64 | 94.7 | 78 | 123.4 | 233 | 456.9 | 203 | 414.3 |
| Grant Maintained Integrated | 172 | 379.8 | 284 | 511.4 | 363 | 662.9 | 151 | 326.1 |
| Voluntary Grammar | 6 | 1.3 | 38 | 98.7 | 227 | 450.3 | 35 | 105.9 |
| Total | 277 | 540.3 | 439 | 786.1 | 940 | 1,816.7 | 505 | 1,098.1 |
I have not instructed the Education Authority (EA) not to fund planned growth in grant maintained integrated schools.
The EA, as funding authority for all grant aided schools, distributes funding to schools in accordance with the Common Funding Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014144%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325443","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325443"}},{"id":"325442","reference":"AQW 14143/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-05","answerBy":"2021-02-22","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he has provided any ministerial direction, changed policy or legislation relating to the common funding formula in a primary school or a post-primary school.","answerText":"I have not provided any ministerial direction, changed policy or legislation relating to the Common Funding Formula in a primary or a post-primary school.","answerHtml":"I have not provided any ministerial direction, changed policy or legislation relating to the Common Funding Formula in a primary or a post-primary school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014143%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325442","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325442"}},{"id":"325441","reference":"AQW 14142/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-05","answerBy":"2021-02-22","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide a copy of the policy that defines the criteria the Education Authority use to individually assess how funding is allocated to schools outside the common funding formula.","answerText":"The Common Funding Scheme (CFS) sets the overarching framework within which schools are funded under the Common Funding Formula and how they can, in certain circumstances, access central funds from the Education Authority, as funding authority for grant-aided schools.\n\nA link to the CFS can be accessed on the Department’s website.","answerHtml":"The Common Funding Scheme (CFS) sets the overarching framework within which schools are funded under the Common Funding Formula and how they can, in certain circumstances, access central funds from the Education Authority, as funding authority for grant-aided schools.
A link to the CFS 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%2014142%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325441"}},{"id":"334686","reference":"AQO 1578/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-04","answerBy":"2021-02-16","answered":"2021-04-16","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 communication has she had with HMRC to encourage employers to accede to requests for furlough by staff that are clinically extremely vulnerable.","answerText":"From 26 December 2020, Clinically Extremely Vulnerable people who are working and are unable to do so from home are advised not to attend the workplace.\n\nAt present this is advice only, those individuals who are deemed Clinically Extremely Vulnerable should use their own judgement about attending work, depending on the Covid-security of their working environment.\n\nAll employers however have a 'duty of care' for staff which means taking all steps they reasonably can to support the health, safety and wellbeing of their staff.\n\nAny employee who cannot attend work due to this latest advice will be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay, and can use their Chief Medical Officer letter as evidence for their employer.\n\nThis advice will be in place until 5 March, and will be reviewed by 18 February in line with the review of restrictions more generally.\n\nEmployers have not been advised to furlough staff who are Clinically Extremely Vulnerable or live with someone who is, as this may not be the best or most appropriate option for either, depending on the employment status or contractual issues that may apply to each individual scenario.","answerHtml":"From 26 December 2020, Clinically Extremely Vulnerable people who are working and are unable to do so from home are advised not to attend the workplace.
At present this is advice only, those individuals who are deemed Clinically Extremely Vulnerable should use their own judgement about attending work, depending on the Covid-security of their working environment.
All employers however have a 'duty of care' for staff which means taking all steps they reasonably can to support the health, safety and wellbeing of their staff.
Any employee who cannot attend work due to this latest advice will be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay, and can use their Chief Medical Officer letter as evidence for their employer.
This advice will be in place until 5 March, and will be reviewed by 18 February in line with the review of restrictions more generally.
Employers have not been advised to furlough staff who are Clinically Extremely Vulnerable or live with someone who is, as this may not be the best or most appropriate option for either, depending on the employment status or contractual issues that may apply to each individual scenario.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201578%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334686","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334686"}},{"id":"324960","reference":"AQW 13902/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-02","answerBy":"2021-02-17","answered":"2021-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he will ensure children with special education needs transferring to special education or mainstream post-primary schools will be prioritised and allocated places first, rather than last, in 2021.","answerText":"Children at stages 1-4 of the code of practice transfer through the competitive admissions process and will be notified of their placement on 19 June 2021.\n\nThe transfer of pupils with statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN) from primary to a Special School or a mainstream Post-Primary is a separate process and an operational matter for the Education Authority (EA) in conjunction with parents and schools.\n\nThe EA acknowledge that there are particular factors which can impact on timely placements being secured such as available specialist places and/or where several consultations were needed for individual pupils to ensure suitable placements in agreement with all parties. It is to be noted, however, in the majority of transfers the different processes align and places are secured with all children transferring placed alongside those children that are placed through the main Admissions process.\n\nDepartmental officials are liaising closely with colleagues from the EA in relation to placements for Academic Year 2021/2022.","answerHtml":"Children at stages 1-4 of the code of practice transfer through the competitive admissions process and will be notified of their placement on 19 June 2021.
The transfer of pupils with statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN) from primary to a Special School or a mainstream Post-Primary is a separate process and an operational matter for the Education Authority (EA) in conjunction with parents and schools.
The EA acknowledge that there are particular factors which can impact on timely placements being secured such as available specialist places and/or where several consultations were needed for individual pupils to ensure suitable placements in agreement with all parties. It is to be noted, however, in the majority of transfers the different processes align and places are secured with all children transferring placed alongside those children that are placed through the main Admissions process.
Departmental officials are liaising closely with colleagues from the EA in relation to placements for Academic Year 2021/2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013902%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324960","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324960"}},{"id":"324959","reference":"AQW 13901/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-02","answerBy":"2021-02-17","answered":"2021-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what discussions have taken place with the Minister for Infrastructure to ensure that investment being made into wastewater treatment works can assist her Department achieve its housing target.","answerText":"As announced by Minister Ní Chuilín in her statement of 3rd November, I have begun the process of developing a fundamental housing supply strategy. The strategy will look at some of the major barriers to supply, which will include water and wastewater infrastructure. I wrote to the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) Minister on 2 December 2020 to request representation from DfI on the Strategy project board. I am pleased that DfI is now represented on this board and also on the Virtual Housing Panel, which acts as an ongoing reference group of sector specialists as the Strategy progresses.","answerHtml":"As announced by Minister Ní Chuilín in her statement of 3rd November, I have begun the process of developing a fundamental housing supply strategy. The strategy will look at some of the major barriers to supply, which will include water and wastewater infrastructure. I wrote to the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) Minister on 2 December 2020 to request representation from DfI on the Strategy project board. I am pleased that DfI is now represented on this board and also on the Virtual Housing Panel, which acts as an ongoing reference group of sector specialists as the Strategy progresses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013901%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324959","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324959"}},{"id":"324958","reference":"AQW 13900/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-02","answerBy":"2021-02-17","answered":"2021-02-15","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 (i) for an update on the review of the Bateman Formula; and (ii) when a new direction on coastal management and climate change will be published.","answerText":"I have recently written to the Infrastructure Minister to discuss future arrangements for the Coastal Forum. The Coastal Forum was formed and co-chaired by previous AERA and Infrastructure Ministers and members included the Chief Executives of coastal Councils and the NI Director of the National Trust.\n\nPrevious Ministers concluded that the Bateman Formula from 1967 is now outdated. The absence of specific legislation in Northern Ireland governing coastal change has resulted in a lack of data on the state of our coastline, and little understanding on how our coastline is changing.\n\nAn analysis of existing Northern Ireland coastal data commissioned by the previous DAERA and DfI Ministers and published in 2019, concluded that scientifically robust data was required for the entire Northern Ireland coast to provide a basis for effective management policies.\n\nMy officials have worked closely with DfI to devise a comprehensive Work Programme which is being managed by a Working Group. The priority objective is to address the significant gaps in our coastline data and provide a reliable evidence base for effective coastal management. The Working Group has also provided decision makers with a position paper outlining current policy and best practice for Northern Ireland in the absence of data on coastal change.\n\nMy Department has recently secured £400,000 funding to address the lack of coastal data and contracts have been let to undertake a comprehensive coastal survey covering the entire Northern Ireland coast in early 2021. Supporting research on wave climate affecting the Ards Peninsula is ongoing, funded by the European Maritime Fisheries Fund. My Department is also seeking further funding for this work area.","answerHtml":"I have recently written to the Infrastructure Minister to discuss future arrangements for the Coastal Forum. The Coastal Forum was formed and co-chaired by previous AERA and Infrastructure Ministers and members included the Chief Executives of coastal Councils and the NI Director of the National Trust.
Previous Ministers concluded that the Bateman Formula from 1967 is now outdated. The absence of specific legislation in Northern Ireland governing coastal change has resulted in a lack of data on the state of our coastline, and little understanding on how our coastline is changing.
An analysis of existing Northern Ireland coastal data commissioned by the previous DAERA and DfI Ministers and published in 2019, concluded that scientifically robust data was required for the entire Northern Ireland coast to provide a basis for effective management policies.
My officials have worked closely with DfI to devise a comprehensive Work Programme which is being managed by a Working Group. The priority objective is to address the significant gaps in our coastline data and provide a reliable evidence base for effective coastal management. The Working Group has also provided decision makers with a position paper outlining current policy and best practice for Northern Ireland in the absence of data on coastal change.
My Department has recently secured £400,000 funding to address the lack of coastal data and contracts have been let to undertake a comprehensive coastal survey covering the entire Northern Ireland coast in early 2021. Supporting research on wave climate affecting the Ards Peninsula is ongoing, funded by the European Maritime Fisheries Fund. My Department is also seeking further funding for this work area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013900%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324958","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324958"}},{"id":"324957","reference":"AQW 13899/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-02","answerBy":"2021-02-17","answered":"2021-02-15","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 (i) how much Barnett consequentials his Department received as part of the Nature for Climate Fund; and (ii) what actions he is taking to carry forward this scheme in his Department.","answerText":"My Department has not received any Barnett consequentials as part of the Nature for Climate Fund;\n\nI continue to implement the ‘Forests for our Future’ programme which Minister Poots announced in March of this year which pledges to help tackle climate change by planting 18 million trees over the next 10 years.\n\nI am currently developing a Peatland Strategy for Northern Ireland which will provide a framework for conserving our intact semi-natural peatlands and restoring degraded semi-natural peatlands. I intend to publish the strategy for consultation soon.","answerHtml":"My Department has not received any Barnett consequentials as part of the Nature for Climate Fund;
I continue to implement the ‘Forests for our Future’ programme which Minister Poots announced in March of this year which pledges to help tackle climate change by planting 18 million trees over the next 10 years.
I am currently developing a Peatland Strategy for Northern Ireland which will provide a framework for conserving our intact semi-natural peatlands and restoring degraded semi-natural peatlands. I intend to publish the strategy for consultation soon.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013899%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324957","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324957"}},{"id":"324956","reference":"AQW 13898/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-02","answerBy":"2021-02-17","answered":"2021-02-17","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 (i) to detail the average time taken to respond to planning applications by the Natural Environment Division; and (ii) how many planning applications relating to the Strangford constituency, including the Ards and North Down Borough Council area and the Rowallane District Electoral Area of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, are awaiting statutory response from Northern Ireland Environment Agency.","answerText":"Most responses made by the Department to planning application consultations are a single collated response covering all relevant Departmental divisions rather than individual responses from each division. As such response rates are reported at a Departmental level. In 2019/20 the average time taken by the Department to respond to planning applications was 22 days. I acknowledge that the 2020/21 average response time is likely to be higher than this and that there is a frustration at the length of time taken to respond to some applications.\n\nImprovement is required and officials in Natural Environment Division have implemented a number of measures to improve response rates and reduce the number of outstanding responses.\n\nI am unable to provide the information in the format requested in part (ii) of the question as the Department does not hold planning consultation data at constituency or District Electoral Area level.","answerHtml":"Most responses made by the Department to planning application consultations are a single collated response covering all relevant Departmental divisions rather than individual responses from each division. As such response rates are reported at a Departmental level. In 2019/20 the average time taken by the Department to respond to planning applications was 22 days. I acknowledge that the 2020/21 average response time is likely to be higher than this and that there is a frustration at the length of time taken to respond to some applications.
Improvement is required and officials in Natural Environment Division have implemented a number of measures to improve response rates and reduce the number of outstanding responses.
I am unable to provide the information in the format requested in part (ii) of the question as the Department does not hold planning consultation data at constituency or District Electoral Area level.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013898%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324956","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324956"}},{"id":"324331","reference":"AQW 13605/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-28","answerBy":"2021-02-12","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she has made a bid for money to further support the Arts, Events and Sports sectors from the end of year amounts identified by the Minister for Finance.","answerText":"My officials continue to engage with delivery partners who are assessing the financial requirements across these sectors to determine the need for and extent of any further bids to the Department of Finance.\n\nIt is my intention that all eligible financial need assessed across these schemes will be supported in full.","answerHtml":"My officials continue to engage with delivery partners who are assessing the financial requirements across these sectors to determine the need for and extent of any further bids to the Department of Finance.
It is my intention that all eligible financial need assessed across these schemes will be supported in full.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013605%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324331","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324331"}},{"id":"324330","reference":"AQW 13604/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-28","answerBy":"2021-02-12","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what assessment has been made of the reduction in calls and contacts the advice sector will be able to answer as a result of the reduction in financial support for this service in the budget paper presented to the Committee for Communities on 28 January 2021.","answerText":"I am fully aware of the vital importance of the provision of advice support services. That is why I have already publicly stated that I will ensure these critical services continue next year as an essential element of the Department’s budget.\n\nIt is clear that the draft budget presents very significant challenges for the Executive and across departments with a constrained Spending Review outcome.\n\nThe Draft 2021-2022 Executive Budget is currently out for consultation and all responses will be taken into account in finalising the Budget. No decisions on the final outcome have been made yet. Now is the chance for people to have their say on how the Draft Executive Budget will impact them, which will help shape the final outcome.","answerHtml":"I am fully aware of the vital importance of the provision of advice support services. That is why I have already publicly stated that I will ensure these critical services continue next year as an essential element of the Department’s budget.
It is clear that the draft budget presents very significant challenges for the Executive and across departments with a constrained Spending Review outcome.
The Draft 2021-2022 Executive Budget is currently out for consultation and all responses will be taken into account in finalising the Budget. No decisions on the final outcome have been made yet. Now is the chance for people to have their say on how the Draft Executive Budget will impact them, which will help shape the final outcome.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013604%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324330","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324330"}},{"id":"324329","reference":"AQW 13603/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-28","answerBy":"2021-02-12","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities on what date Supporting People contracts are due to complete in 2021; and when she will invite stakeholders to co-design and co-produce the next Supporting People programme.","answerText":"The Housing Executive have confirmed that Funding Agreements are renewed with service provider organisations annually. Current Funding Agreements are due to expire on 14 March 2021 and will be extended to 13 March 2022 where applicable.\n\nI have asked the Housing Executive to consider using a co-design / co-production approach in developing their 3 year Strategy to ensure the views and ambitions of Provider organisations are fully represented. The Housing Executive have agreed to draw up a high level plan setting out key steps and associated timescales.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive have confirmed that Funding Agreements are renewed with service provider organisations annually. Current Funding Agreements are due to expire on 14 March 2021 and will be extended to 13 March 2022 where applicable.
I have asked the Housing Executive to consider using a co-design / co-production approach in developing their 3 year Strategy to ensure the views and ambitions of Provider organisations are fully represented. The Housing Executive have agreed to draw up a high level plan setting out key steps and associated timescales.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013603%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324329","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324329"}},{"id":"324328","reference":"AQW 13602/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-28","answerBy":"2021-02-12","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the decision on the Work Ready Employment Service tenders will be made and successful applicants notified.","answerText":"Award of contracts in relation to Work Ready Employability Service tenders is currently paused while the Department assess the Draft Budget for 2021-22. If the contract is not awarded by 4 February, tenderers will be asked to confirm if they wish their tenders to remain valid for consideration.","answerHtml":"Award of contracts in relation to Work Ready Employability Service tenders is currently paused while the Department assess the Draft Budget for 2021-22. If the contract is not awarded by 4 February, tenderers will be asked to confirm if they wish their tenders to remain valid for consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013602%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324328","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324328"}},{"id":"324327","reference":"AQW 13601/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-28","answerBy":"2021-02-12","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many people are waiting for a Personal Independence Payment appeal hearing in each constituency, broken down by each month since 1 March 2018.","answerText":"My Department does not record information either on a constituency or month to month basis. However, the table below details the total number of active Personal Independence Payment appeals in each town at 31 July, broken down by each year since 1 March 2018.\n\nTown\tJuly 2018\tJuly 2019\tJuly 2020\nArmagh\t102\t122\t72\nBallymena\t240\t396\t281\nBallymoney\t89\t138\t87\nBanbridge\t96\t160\t105\nBelfast\t2,485\t3,491\t2,827\nColeraine\t245\t248\t197\nCookstown\t51\t86\t40\nCraigavon\t247\t313\t221\nDerry\t330\t238\t182\nDownpatrick\t284\t421\t289\nDungannon\t205\t179\t118\nEnniskillen\t168\t146\t94\nLimavady\t40\t35\t40\nMagherafelt\t73\t74\t51\nNewry\t298\t396\t295\nNewtownards\t317\t408\t337\nOmagh\t192\t145\t132\nStrabane\t88\t71\t72\nTotal\t5,550\t7,067\t5,440","answerHtml":"My Department does not record information either on a constituency or month to month basis. However, the table below details the total number of active Personal Independence Payment appeals in each town at 31 July, broken down by each year since 1 March 2018.
| Town | July 2018 | July 2019 | July 2020 |
| Armagh | 102 | 122 | 72 |
| Ballymena | 240 | 396 | 281 |
| Ballymoney | 89 | 138 | 87 |
| Banbridge | 96 | 160 | 105 |
| Belfast | 2,485 | 3,491 | 2,827 |
| Coleraine | 245 | 248 | 197 |
| Cookstown | 51 | 86 | 40 |
| Craigavon | 247 | 313 | 221 |
| Derry | 330 | 238 | 182 |
| Downpatrick | 284 | 421 | 289 |
| Dungannon | 205 | 179 | 118 |
| Enniskillen | 168 | 146 | 94 |
| Limavady | 40 | 35 | 40 |
| Magherafelt | 73 | 74 | 51 |
| Newry | 298 | 396 | 295 |
| Newtownards | 317 | 408 | 337 |
| Omagh | 192 | 145 | 132 |
| Strabane | 88 | 71 | 72 |
| Total | 5,550 | 7,067 | 5,440 |
Upon taking up my position as Minister of Justice in January 2020, I set out ambitious legislative plans for the rest of the mandate, starting with the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Bill that reached Final Stage in January 2021 and should receive Royal Assent shortly.
I currently have two Bills at different stages in the Assembly. The Criminal Justice (Committal Reform) Bill, which was introduced on 3 November 2020 is now at Committee Stage, and the Protection from Stalking Bill, which was introduced on 18 January 2021 had its Second Stage reading earlier today (8 February) and will now go to Committee Stage.
The fourth Bill in my programme is the Damages (Return on Investment) Bill. Drafting of the Bill is complete and I have sought Executive approval for Introduction to the Assembly later this month.
That just leaves the Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, which will legislate for a number of discrete policy areas that do not come within scope of the other Bills I have just mentioned, as the final Bill in my programme.
Drafting of the Justice Bill is nearing completion and, subject to the completion of pre-Introduction clearances and securing the necessary Executive approvals, I plan to introduce this Bill to the Assembly in April.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201531%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326078","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326078"}},{"id":"324198","reference":"AQW 13508/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-27","answerBy":"2021-02-11","answered":"2021-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will ensure the Contingency Fund is offered to Universal Credit applicants before any advance loan; and that a link to the application process for the Contingency Fund is provided to all new applicants of Universal Credit.","answerText":"Arrangements are already in place to ensure that the Universal Credit Contingency Fund is offered to Universal Credit applicants before any advance loan, through the personal welcome message that customers receive on their online journal when they make their claim. This message includes signposting to the Finance Support Freephone and Textphone numbers, as well as a link to the online claim form if they wish to enquire further, or apply directly, to the Contingency Fund.\n\nStaff also promote the Universal Credit Contingency Fund to anyone contacting them to report financial hardship. The Department also uses its social media channels to highlight the existence of the Contingency Fund, and our partners in the Advice Sector also actively promote its existence.","answerHtml":"Arrangements are already in place to ensure that the Universal Credit Contingency Fund is offered to Universal Credit applicants before any advance loan, through the personal welcome message that customers receive on their online journal when they make their claim. This message includes signposting to the Finance Support Freephone and Textphone numbers, as well as a link to the online claim form if they wish to enquire further, or apply directly, to the Contingency Fund.
Staff also promote the Universal Credit Contingency Fund to anyone contacting them to report financial hardship. The Department also uses its social media channels to highlight the existence of the Contingency Fund, and our partners in the Advice Sector also actively promote its existence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013508%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324198","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324198"}},{"id":"324197","reference":"AQW 13507/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-27","answerBy":"2021-02-11","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the recommendations made in the Women’s Support Network report entitled Consortium for the Regional Support for Women in Disadvantaged and Rural Areas - The Impact of Universal Credit on Women, are being brought forward as part of the considerations for Welfare Reform Mitigations for 2021; and to list the stakeholder reports and documents being considered as part of her Department's considerations on welfare reform.","answerText":"The New Decade, New Approach Deal includes a commitment to complete a review of the welfare mitigation measures. While the specific issues that will be considered as part of the review have not been finalised, I am committed to the principle of co-design and that due regard should be given to all appropriate evidence and to a full range of stakeholder input while taking into account the availability of funding.\n\nOn this basis it is likely that the Women’s Support Network report will be included for consideration in any review of future mitigation measures.\n\nOther such reports that may be considered for evidence to inform the review into future mitigation measures would include:\n\nHuman Rights Commission report “Cumulative Impact Assessment of tax and social security reforms” and the NIHRC Annual Statement 2020\n\nThe UN Concluding Observations from their Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities\n\nCliff Edge Coalition report “Welfare Reform: Mitigations on a Cliff Edge”\n\nAudit Office Personal Independence Payment Review\n\nAdvice NI Briefing Paper – Safeguarding Vulnerable Social Security Benefit Claimants\n\nThis is not an exhaustive list and further reports/documents may come into consideration. It should also be noted that any proposals for new mitigation measures will also need to take into consideration the availability of funding","answerHtml":"The New Decade, New Approach Deal includes a commitment to complete a review of the welfare mitigation measures. While the specific issues that will be considered as part of the review have not been finalised, I am committed to the principle of co-design and that due regard should be given to all appropriate evidence and to a full range of stakeholder input while taking into account the availability of funding.
On this basis it is likely that the Women’s Support Network report will be included for consideration in any review of future mitigation measures.
Other such reports that may be considered for evidence to inform the review into future mitigation measures would include:
Human Rights Commission report “Cumulative Impact Assessment of tax and social security reforms” and the NIHRC Annual Statement 2020
The UN Concluding Observations from their Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Cliff Edge Coalition report “Welfare Reform: Mitigations on a Cliff Edge”
Audit Office Personal Independence Payment Review
Advice NI Briefing Paper – Safeguarding Vulnerable Social Security Benefit Claimants
This is not an exhaustive list and further reports/documents may come into consideration. It should also be noted that any proposals for new mitigation measures will also need to take into consideration the availability of funding
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013507%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324197","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324197"}},{"id":"324196","reference":"AQW 13506/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-27","answerBy":"2021-02-11","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of official errors that took place in welfare provision; (ii) number of times discretionary waivers were implemented; and (iii) the total value of the waivers, in (a) 2018/19; (b) 2019/20; and (c) the first three quarters of 2020/21.","answerText":"The Department holds data on the number of official errors that occurred as a result of overpayment of benefit. Data is not captured on underpayments as when an error is detected in a case that results in underpayment, the proper benefit award is made by the benefit branch and if appropriate an arrears payment made. Estimates on the value of underpayments due to official error are published in the Department’s Annual Report and Accounts.\n\nThe table overleaf sets out the number of overpayments due to official error in all social security benefits for the period requested including both non-recoverable and recoverable overpayments. A waiver is only appropriate for consideration where an overpayment is deemed recoverable.\n\nTable 1: Benefit Overpayment Data – 1 Apr 2018 to 31 Dec 2020\n\nYear\tNumber of official error overpayments\tNumber of waivers implemented\tValue of waivers implemented £,000\n2018/19\t7,585\t98\t439\n2019/20\t10,719\t165\t535\nApril 2020 to 31.12.2020\t8,438\t45\t88\n\nI fully understand and appreciate the difficulties some people may be experiencing at this time and I am committed to protecting vulnerable people in these difficult and uncertain times.\n\nMy Department has well established processes in place to help people who are experiencing financial hardship, or having difficulty repaying loans or benefit overpayments. A range of steps have been taken to ensure people are aware that they can contact the Department if they are experiencing any difficulties with repayment rates including publishing information and guidance on NI Direct and on the Department for Communities website.\n\n.","answerHtml":"The Department holds data on the number of official errors that occurred as a result of overpayment of benefit. Data is not captured on underpayments as when an error is detected in a case that results in underpayment, the proper benefit award is made by the benefit branch and if appropriate an arrears payment made. Estimates on the value of underpayments due to official error are published in the Department’s Annual Report and Accounts.
The table overleaf sets out the number of overpayments due to official error in all social security benefits for the period requested including both non-recoverable and recoverable overpayments. A waiver is only appropriate for consideration where an overpayment is deemed recoverable.
Table 1: Benefit Overpayment Data – 1 Apr 2018 to 31 Dec 2020
| Year | Number of official error overpayments | Number of waivers implemented | Value of waivers implemented £,000 |
| 2018/19 | 7,585 | 98 | 439 |
| 2019/20 | 10,719 | 165 | 535 |
| April 2020 to 31.12.2020 | 8,438 | 45 | 88 |
I fully understand and appreciate the difficulties some people may be experiencing at this time and I am committed to protecting vulnerable people in these difficult and uncertain times.
My Department has well established processes in place to help people who are experiencing financial hardship, or having difficulty repaying loans or benefit overpayments. A range of steps have been taken to ensure people are aware that they can contact the Department if they are experiencing any difficulties with repayment rates including publishing information and guidance on NI Direct and on the Department for Communities website.
.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013506%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324196","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324196"}},{"id":"324195","reference":"AQW 13505/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-27","answerBy":"2021-02-11","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the successful appeal rate to Personal Independence Payment reviews by claimants residing in the Strangford constituency, in each year since its introduction.","answerText":"My Department does not hold information on the number of Personal Independence Payment appeals per constituency or the success rate of appeals per constituency or town. However, the table below details the total number of successful and unsuccessful Personal Independence Payment appeals, in each year since its introduction.\n\nPIP\tSuccessful\tUnsuccessful\tSuccess Rate\n1 April 2016 – 31 March 2017\t9\t16\t36%\n1 April 2017 – 31 March 2018\t1,467\t1,348\t52%\n1 April 2018 – 31 March 2019\t3,091\t2,083\t60%\n1 April 2019 – 31 March 2020\t3,768\t2,192\t63%\n1 April 2020 – 31 January 2021\t478\t285\t63%","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold information on the number of Personal Independence Payment appeals per constituency or the success rate of appeals per constituency or town. However, the table below details the total number of successful and unsuccessful Personal Independence Payment appeals, in each year since its introduction.
| PIP | Successful | Unsuccessful | Success Rate |
| 1 April 2016 – 31 March 2017 | 9 | 16 | 36% |
| 1 April 2017 – 31 March 2018 | 1,467 | 1,348 | 52% |
| 1 April 2018 – 31 March 2019 | 3,091 | 2,083 | 60% |
| 1 April 2019 – 31 March 2020 | 3,768 | 2,192 | 63% |
| 1 April 2020 – 31 January 2021 | 478 | 285 | 63% |
I committed back in February 2020 to Northern Ireland’s continued participation in the development of UK-wide proposals to reform the Packaging Producer Responsibility system and the introduction of a Deposit Return Scheme. I am taking powers in the Westminster Environment Bill to allow a Deposit Return Scheme to be established in Northern Ireland, the purpose of which is to secure an increase in recycling and recyclability of materials, and to reduce the amount and costs of littering and fly-tipping.
The specific details of the scheme have been refined following earlier consultation in 2019, using evidence gathered and through ongoing engagement with stakeholders. I plan to launch a second public consultation this year. The options for scope (material and size of container), deposit level and model of a DRS will be presented in the second consultation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013504%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324194","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324194"}},{"id":"323957","reference":"AQW 13404/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-26","answerBy":"2021-02-10","answered":"2021-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) whether parents can access stocks of paper, pens and other resources held in schools; and (ii) whether his Department has ensured parents have been provided with details of what school resources are available for children completing school work at home.","answerText":"In theory, every school remains open (for Key Worker and Vulnerable children) and so any parent who needs to access paper, pens and other resources from schools, in order to support home learning, should be able to do so, upon request to the Principal.\n\nHowever, the Education Authority (EA) does not have any sense of how individual schools have or have not communicated this possibility to parents, nor any sense of the extent to which such resources are actually needed. Some Cross Organisational Link Officers (COLOs) have reported that schools have provided paper based tasks and resources to support home learning, upon request from parents.\n\nThe need for a device is identified by schools and requests made by schools through the C2k exchange. Requests are met following the prioritisation process.","answerHtml":"In theory, every school remains open (for Key Worker and Vulnerable children) and so any parent who needs to access paper, pens and other resources from schools, in order to support home learning, should be able to do so, upon request to the Principal.
However, the Education Authority (EA) does not have any sense of how individual schools have or have not communicated this possibility to parents, nor any sense of the extent to which such resources are actually needed. Some Cross Organisational Link Officers (COLOs) have reported that schools have provided paper based tasks and resources to support home learning, upon request from parents.
The need for a device is identified by schools and requests made by schools through the C2k exchange. Requests are met following the prioritisation process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013404%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323957","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323957"}},{"id":"323956","reference":"AQW 13403/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-26","answerBy":"2021-02-10","answered":"2021-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the investment provided to sectoral bodies and directly to schools during 2020/21 to provide mental health support for primary and post-primary pupils impacted by the pandemic; (ii) the mental health programmes, including where they are being provided; and (iii) what percentage of pupils have access to support.","answerText":"The Education Authority has advised that:-\n\n(i) The ‘Restart Wellbeing Fund’ was put in place under the auspices of DE Education Restart and was specifically to promote the health, wellbeing and resilience of school populations. Funding was based on their enrolment figure for the 2019-20 academic year. In addition, Education Otherwise Than at School (EOTAS) centres and EA Youth Services also received an allocation of funding. See Table 1 below:\n\nTable 1: Funding allocated to schools & EA Services\n\nNursery schools\t£304,000\nPrimary schools\t£2,816,980\nPost Primary Schools\t£1,376,100\nSpecial Schools\t£124,800\nYouth\t£259,600\nEOTAS\t£118,400\nTOTAL\t£4,999,880\n\n(ii) Funding was allocated to schools, EOTAS and youth settings just prior to Christmas 2020 and they are currently identifying ways in which the funding can be spent to support the resilience, mental health and wellbeing of children. Guidance was issued to schools to inform them as to how the monies could be spent to support these areas of emotional health and wellbeing.\n\n(iii) The guidance issued advises that this funding should be used in a way that at least 50% of the pupil and staff cohort within the setting are supported. This is with the exception of counselling funded through this initiative, where a smaller cohort of children will have received support.\n\nIt is important to note that there are also a range of other services where investment was not made directly to schools but which directly supported the emotional health and wellbeing of staff, children and young people. These include:\n\n‘Supporting wellbeing through education restart’: an online portal of resources available to schools with information on supporting learners, leaders and staff;\n\nResources on the EA website to support the emotional health and wellbeing of learners and information for parents;\n\n‘Flourishing schools’ webinars – in partnership with SBNI, these were for school principals and focused on trauma sensitive practice (Early Year, Primary and Special schools webinars have taken place, and post primary schools;\n\nShane Martin Webinars for School Leaders: Cultivating Resilience within School Communities. The aim of this webinar was to help support school leaders through the challenges of Restart with a specific emphasis on resilience;\n\nEA youth service online resource ‘youth online’ where children and young people can access information, advice and support;\n\nEA services including the Independent Counselling Service for Schools in post primary mainstream and special; Education Welfare Service; Behaviour Support and Provisions helpline; Primary Behaviour Support Team High Five newsletter; Critical Incident Response Team, Intercultural Education Service, Youth Service and Nurturing Approaches in Schools Service and the Children Looked After project team.\n\nWellbeing Helpline – facilitated by the Education Psychology Service, this was a temporary resource to schools to support them as they respond to a range of pupil need in school.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority has advised that:-
(i) The ‘Restart Wellbeing Fund’ was put in place under the auspices of DE Education Restart and was specifically to promote the health, wellbeing and resilience of school populations. Funding was based on their enrolment figure for the 2019-20 academic year. In addition, Education Otherwise Than at School (EOTAS) centres and EA Youth Services also received an allocation of funding. See Table 1 below:
Table 1: Funding allocated to schools & EA Services
| Nursery schools | £304,000 |
| Primary schools | £2,816,980 |
| Post Primary Schools | £1,376,100 |
| Special Schools | £124,800 |
| Youth | £259,600 |
| EOTAS | £118,400 |
| TOTAL | £4,999,880 |
(ii) Funding was allocated to schools, EOTAS and youth settings just prior to Christmas 2020 and they are currently identifying ways in which the funding can be spent to support the resilience, mental health and wellbeing of children. Guidance was issued to schools to inform them as to how the monies could be spent to support these areas of emotional health and wellbeing.
(iii) The guidance issued advises that this funding should be used in a way that at least 50% of the pupil and staff cohort within the setting are supported. This is with the exception of counselling funded through this initiative, where a smaller cohort of children will have received support.
It is important to note that there are also a range of other services where investment was not made directly to schools but which directly supported the emotional health and wellbeing of staff, children and young people. These include:
‘Supporting wellbeing through education restart’: an online portal of resources available to schools with information on supporting learners, leaders and staff;
Resources on the EA website to support the emotional health and wellbeing of learners and information for parents;
‘Flourishing schools’ webinars – in partnership with SBNI, these were for school principals and focused on trauma sensitive practice (Early Year, Primary and Special schools webinars have taken place, and post primary schools;
Shane Martin Webinars for School Leaders: Cultivating Resilience within School Communities. The aim of this webinar was to help support school leaders through the challenges of Restart with a specific emphasis on resilience;
EA youth service online resource ‘youth online’ where children and young people can access information, advice and support;
EA services including the Independent Counselling Service for Schools in post primary mainstream and special; Education Welfare Service; Behaviour Support and Provisions helpline; Primary Behaviour Support Team High Five newsletter; Critical Incident Response Team, Intercultural Education Service, Youth Service and Nurturing Approaches in Schools Service and the Children Looked After project team.
Wellbeing Helpline – facilitated by the Education Psychology Service, this was a temporary resource to schools to support them as they respond to a range of pupil need in school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013403%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323956","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323956"}},{"id":"323955","reference":"AQW 13402/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-26","answerBy":"2021-02-10","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the co-design stakeholders contacted as part of the review of Welfare Reform mitigations; and to provide a copy of the minutes of the meetings since 2020 with those stakeholders.","answerText":"Due to the ongoing need to prioritise my Department’s response to the pandemic the progress the review of welfare reform mitigations has been hindered. The review will include a range of interest groups so that their voices are heard on these important issues. Details of the format of the review, including engagement with stakeholders, will be shared with the Committee for Communities at the earliest opportunity.","answerHtml":"Due to the ongoing need to prioritise my Department’s response to the pandemic the progress the review of welfare reform mitigations has been hindered. The review will include a range of interest groups so that their voices are heard on these important issues. Details of the format of the review, including engagement with stakeholders, will be shared with the Committee for Communities at the earliest opportunity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013402%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323955","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323955"}},{"id":"323954","reference":"AQW 13401/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-26","answerBy":"2021-02-10","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the average waiting times for applicants between making an application for Personal Independent Payment and the first award being paid, in each of the last 24 months.","answerText":"The information requested is set out in the table below and is calculated from the most recent statistics, published on 25 November 2020.\n\nThe average time taken to process a PIP claim from the point of registration through to payment being made includes the time taken for a claimant to return their Part 2 'How your disability affects you' form, which they are given up to 6 weeks to complete, or longer if additional time is requested by the claimant or their representative.\n\nAverage (Median) Monthly Registration to Payment times for PIP\n\nSeptember 2018 to August 2020\n\nMonth\tAverage (median) time taken from Claim Registration to Payment (Weeks)\nSeptember 2018\t15\nOctober 2018\t14\nNovember 2018\t14\nDecember 2018\t14\nJanuary 2019\t15\nFebruary 2019\t16\nMarch 2019\t17\nApril 2019\t16\nMay 2019\t19\nJune 2019\t19\nJuly 2019\t19\nAugust 2019\t18\nSeptember 2019\t15\nOctober 2019\t14\nNovember 2019\t13\nDecember 2019\t12\nJanuary 2020\t13\nFebruary 2020\t14\nMarch 2020\t14\nApril 2020\t15\nMay 2020\t17\nJune 2020\t19\nJuly 2020\t19\nAugust 2020\t14","answerHtml":"The information requested is set out in the table below and is calculated from the most recent statistics, published on 25 November 2020.
The average time taken to process a PIP claim from the point of registration through to payment being made includes the time taken for a claimant to return their Part 2 'How your disability affects you' form, which they are given up to 6 weeks to complete, or longer if additional time is requested by the claimant or their representative.
Average (Median) Monthly Registration to Payment times for PIP
September 2018 to August 2020
| Month | Average (median) time taken from Claim Registration to Payment (Weeks) |
| September 2018 | 15 |
| October 2018 | 14 |
| November 2018 | 14 |
| December 2018 | 14 |
| January 2019 | 15 |
| February 2019 | 16 |
| March 2019 | 17 |
| April 2019 | 16 |
| May 2019 | 19 |
| June 2019 | 19 |
| July 2019 | 19 |
| August 2019 | 18 |
| September 2019 | 15 |
| October 2019 | 14 |
| November 2019 | 13 |
| December 2019 | 12 |
| January 2020 | 13 |
| February 2020 | 14 |
| March 2020 | 14 |
| April 2020 | 15 |
| May 2020 | 17 |
| June 2020 | 19 |
| July 2020 | 19 |
| August 2020 | 14 |
On 28 January I announced my intention to provide our carers with a one off award as a small recognition for the exceptional contribution that they make to our society. The Department previously secured funds for Covid-19 pressures in 20/21, including for a potential one off payment to carers.
Intense work has been undertaken to explore how such an award might be delivered. However a payment to carers will be significantly more complex to administer than recent one-off payments made to other groups. I have therefore written to my Executive colleagues requesting their support with this initiative as cross-departmental collaboration will be required. Work will continue to explore how we can make such an award a reality.
I am however pleased to have been able to allocate £4.4m to establish a new Support for Carers’ Fund. This will provide very valuable support for charities working with and for carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013400%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323953","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323953"}},{"id":"323734","reference":"AQW 13280/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-25","answerBy":"2021-02-09","answered":"2021-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the support she is putting in place to help low-income private renters in a welfare reform mitigations package.","answerText":"People in the private rented sector may be eligible for financial assistance through the Discretionary Housing Payment scheme. This support may be available where a person is experiencing a shortfall between the contractual rent charged by a private landlord and the rent used to calculate entitlement to Housing Benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit.\n\nPeople who are receiving Housing Benefit and who are affected by the Benefit Cap may be eligible for a Discretionary Housing Payment if they are not receiving a Welfare Supplementary Payment equivalent to the capped amount.\n\nThe New Decade, New Approach Deal includes a commitment to complete a review of the welfare mitigation measures. While the specific issues that will be considered as part of the review have not been finalised it is likely that support for people in the private sector who are on a low income will be included.","answerHtml":"People in the private rented sector may be eligible for financial assistance through the Discretionary Housing Payment scheme. This support may be available where a person is experiencing a shortfall between the contractual rent charged by a private landlord and the rent used to calculate entitlement to Housing Benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit.
People who are receiving Housing Benefit and who are affected by the Benefit Cap may be eligible for a Discretionary Housing Payment if they are not receiving a Welfare Supplementary Payment equivalent to the capped amount.
The New Decade, New Approach Deal includes a commitment to complete a review of the welfare mitigation measures. While the specific issues that will be considered as part of the review have not been finalised it is likely that support for people in the private sector who are on a low income will be included.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013280%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323734","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323734"}},{"id":"323517","reference":"AQW 13190/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-22","answerBy":"2021-02-08","answered":"2021-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will ensure that in instances where a person is having an early pregnancy scan, having a miscarriage or is having a procedure following the death of their baby in the womb, that an exemption is provided for a partner to enable the person to be accompanied and not forced to go through the process alone.","answerText":"My Department published updated visiting guidance for maternity services (available here: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/Covid-19-visiting-guidance), which took effect from 15 January 2021. The guidance is based on the best scientific advice available, with restrictions applying in line with the current Regional Alert Level Position.\n\nThe clear intention is that in any instance of pregnancy loss, arrangements will be made to facilitate the birth partner to accompany the pregnant woman.","answerHtml":"My Department published updated visiting guidance for maternity services (available here: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/Covid-19-visiting-guidance), which took effect from 15 January 2021. The guidance is based on the best scientific advice available, with restrictions applying in line with the current Regional Alert Level Position.
The clear intention is that in any instance of pregnancy loss, arrangements will be made to facilitate the birth partner to accompany the pregnant woman.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013190%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323517"}},{"id":"323516","reference":"AQW 13189/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-22","answerBy":"2021-02-08","answered":"2021-09-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to produce guidance, through the Public Health Agency for Health and Social Care Trusts, to ensure there is equitable provision of maternity services that reminds all health providers that pregnancy and birth experience needs to be bespoke to each patient and not a forced standard approach.","answerText":"It is already the case that women receive bespoke care during pregnancy and birth. In line with Departmental policy, Health and Social Care Trusts consider prospective parents as partners in maternity care and provide all relevant information, in appropriate formats, to enable them to make informed choices about what is best for them and their baby.\n\nIn terms of visiting to maternity services, the guidance recommends that the birth partner will be facilitated to accompany the pregnant woman to the dating scan, early pregnancy clinic, anomaly scan, Fetal Medicine Department, when admitted to individual room for active labour- this will be determined by the midwife - and birth.\n\nThe full visiting guidance provides all detailed recommendations and should still be referred to for clarity. The guidance will be aligned with the Alert Level in place at any particular time, and will take account of a facility’s individual circumstances. The decision to permit visitors into a facility on a day to day basis will still lie with the midwife in charge. This decision will be based on a risk assessment which will ensure safety of patients, staff and the visitor.\n\nI do acknowledge that these restrictions do not permit visiting to the extent we would hope for in usual circumstances. However the continuing high rates of COVID-19 transmission and hospital admissions are continuing to place the healthcare system under significant pressure. In these circumstances visiting restrictions help to mitigate the rising rate of infections, hospital admissions and deaths, particularly as expectant mothers are included in the list of people at risk.","answerHtml":"It is already the case that women receive bespoke care during pregnancy and birth. In line with Departmental policy, Health and Social Care Trusts consider prospective parents as partners in maternity care and provide all relevant information, in appropriate formats, to enable them to make informed choices about what is best for them and their baby.
In terms of visiting to maternity services, the guidance recommends that the birth partner will be facilitated to accompany the pregnant woman to the dating scan, early pregnancy clinic, anomaly scan, Fetal Medicine Department, when admitted to individual room for active labour- this will be determined by the midwife - and birth.
The full visiting guidance provides all detailed recommendations and should still be referred to for clarity. The guidance will be aligned with the Alert Level in place at any particular time, and will take account of a facility’s individual circumstances. The decision to permit visitors into a facility on a day to day basis will still lie with the midwife in charge. This decision will be based on a risk assessment which will ensure safety of patients, staff and the visitor.
I do acknowledge that these restrictions do not permit visiting to the extent we would hope for in usual circumstances. However the continuing high rates of COVID-19 transmission and hospital admissions are continuing to place the healthcare system under significant pressure. In these circumstances visiting restrictions help to mitigate the rising rate of infections, hospital admissions and deaths, particularly as expectant mothers are included in the list of people at risk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013189%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323516"}},{"id":"323515","reference":"AQW 13188/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-22","answerBy":"2021-02-08","answered":"2021-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the review of the Concordat with the Community and Voluntary Sector; (ii) with whom she has consulted; and (iii) to publish an interim report to ensure all Departments are aware of the agreement before budgets, contracts and grants are issued for 2021/22.","answerText":"My Department is not currently undertaking a formal review of the 2011 Concordat, which formalises the strategic level relationships between government and the voluntary and community sector. My Department remains committed to the principles of the Concordat which applies to all government departments, local government and Arm’s Length Bodies.\n\nMy Department has worked in close partnership with the sector to support the community response to the pandemic. Collaboration and partnership have facilitated a strong collective response to the pandemic and underline the value of the Concordat commitments.","answerHtml":"My Department is not currently undertaking a formal review of the 2011 Concordat, which formalises the strategic level relationships between government and the voluntary and community sector. My Department remains committed to the principles of the Concordat which applies to all government departments, local government and Arm’s Length Bodies.
My Department has worked in close partnership with the sector to support the community response to the pandemic. Collaboration and partnership have facilitated a strong collective response to the pandemic and underline the value of the Concordat commitments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013188%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323515","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323515"}},{"id":"323514","reference":"AQW 13187/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-22","answerBy":"2021-02-08","answered":"2021-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will bring forward a further statutory rule to enable COVID-19 heating payments to be provided for people whose delayed Personal Independence Payment appeal is successful and who should have been in receipt of qualifying benefits during the qualifying week.","answerText":"Payments will be made automatically to people where a successful appeal results in a retrospective award for one of the qualifying benefits for the scheme during the qualifying week. These payments will be made under the existing Covid-19 Heating Payment Scheme Regulations without the need for a further statutory rule as people in these circumstances will have met the existing eligibility criteria.","answerHtml":"Payments will be made automatically to people where a successful appeal results in a retrospective award for one of the qualifying benefits for the scheme during the qualifying week. These payments will be made under the existing Covid-19 Heating Payment Scheme Regulations without the need for a further statutory rule as people in these circumstances will have met the existing eligibility criteria.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013187%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323514","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323514"}},{"id":"323513","reference":"AQW 13186/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-22","answerBy":"2021-02-08","answered":"2021-02-01","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) for an update on the Renewable Heat Incentive tariff review; (ii) what consultation has taken place with operators; and (iii) whether the new tariff will be confirmed in advance of 31 March 2021.","answerText":"(i) The Cornwall tariff recommendations together with analysis of more recent fuel price movements have been taken into account in options for the future of the scheme.\n\n(ii) My Department carried out a public consultation on proposed changes to medium biomass tariffs – the consultation document remains available on the Department’s website1.\n\n1 https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/consultations/northern-ireland-renewable-heat-incentive-scheme-2020-tariff-review\n\n(iii) Work to refine options for the future of the Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive scheme is ongoing. This work is a priority; fairness towards those who have participated in the Scheme in good faith, along with value for money for the taxpayer, are key factors. Final decisions on the future of the scheme will be taken by the Executive.","answerHtml":"(i) The Cornwall tariff recommendations together with analysis of more recent fuel price movements have been taken into account in options for the future of the scheme.
(ii) My Department carried out a public consultation on proposed changes to medium biomass tariffs – the consultation document remains available on the Department’s website1.
1 https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/consultations/northern-ireland-renewable-heat-incentive-scheme-2020-tariff-review
(iii) Work to refine options for the future of the Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive scheme is ongoing. This work is a priority; fairness towards those who have participated in the Scheme in good faith, along with value for money for the taxpayer, are key factors. Final decisions on the future of the scheme will be taken by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013186%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323513","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323513"}},{"id":"323452","reference":"AQO 1485/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-21","answerBy":"2021-02-01","answered":"2021-02-01","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 how the updated COVID-19: Regional Principles for Visiting in Care Settings in Northern Ireland guidance is being implemented by care homes.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for her question. It remains the position of my Department that care home visits can be safely facilitated through compliance with the regional principles for visiting in care settings that are clearly set out in the existing guidance. We encourage all involved to work together to ensure that care home residents can avail themselves of visits from their friends and families while maintaining a safe environment. The decision to permit visitors into a care home and how that is organised remains the responsibility of the care home manager. The discussions should be based on a dynamic risk assessment that takes into account the particular circumstances of the individual care home to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors. Health and social care trusts have been asked to work with care homes to provide the support they may require to move forward with risk assessments that facilitate safe, managed and meaningful visiting arrangements and the implementation of the care partner concept. In addition, the Public Health Agency is working with relevant stakeholders to continue to support the processes for implementing meaningful visiting and the care partner concept. I fully understand why some care homes remain cautious about implementing both visiting arrangements and the care partner concept because of their experience of managing the transmission and impact of COVID-19. Nevertheless, there is an appreciation of the right to a family life for those living in care home settings and, in particular, an acknowledgement of the critical importance of sustaining relationships between residents and their families and friends at this time of the year. It is clear that a significant number of families feel that they have not been able to visit their relatives or set up care partner arrangements in line with regional guidance. Some of the stories that families have told are deeply concerning. We know that the stories do not reflect the sector as a whole. I appreciate how hard many homes are working to facilitate both the care partner concept and safe visiting arrangements between residents and their friends or families."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Thank you very much, Minister. I thank you and all of your colleagues in the health service for taking that forward. Thank you very much for the risk assessments, as we know that will be key. Can you outline how you have sought to communicate and promote that to potential care partners to ensure they are all following guidelines, are all aware of them and can let people know so that visiting can happen safely?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for that critical point. We have been doing a piece of work that has been led by the Patient Client Council (PCC). It is about supporting families who have experienced difficulties in accessing homes that use the Department's guidance and have been implementing the care partner arrangements. We have asked the Patient Client Council to lead that work as an independent body interacting between the Department and the families who have been affected. There are some very harrowing stories, and I am sure that most Members have heard about that through their constituency offices. However, there are many examples of good practice from good homes as well. I want to put on record my thanks to those homes that are doing extra work to make sure visiting can proceed safely and with less risk — it will never be risk-free — than in some of the homes. The Chief Nursing Officer and the Chief Social Work Officer met the Patient Client Council and a number of families' representatives in the last couple of weeks about that ongoing work and engagement. They discussed some of the particular difficulties in certain homes and regions and the way in which the offer of support and encouragement from my Department to facilitate visiting for families and residents is taken up."},{"speaker":"Ms Rogan","text":"The limitations on visiting arrangements have been a constant source of worry and emotional turmoil for staff, patients and relatives. Can the Minister outline whether the current restrictions on visiting, for example, in maternity wards is likely to change?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for her question. I also welcome her to the Health Committee and look forward to working with her. The updated visiting guidance that came into effect from 15 January outlines that the specific restrictions for each care setting are aligned to the pandemic surge levels and the R value. The R value represents the risk of the virus spreading from one infected person to another on average. The guidance is based on the best scientific advice available at any given time. Northern Ireland is currently in surge level 5, the guidance for which states that:"},{"speaker":"","text":"The decision to admit visitors to a facility on a day-to-day basis will still lie with the nurse in charge and be based on a risk assessment and the ability to ensure social distancing and the safety of patients and visitors."},{"speaker":"","text":"This is not the experience that I would have hoped for for expectant mothers, and I recognise that it is an anxious time for all families. Many difficult requests have been made, and will continue to be made, of the public in all aspects of health service provision, in order to reduce the spread of infection and to protect expectant mothers, their families and the staff providing the care."},{"speaker":"Mr Durkan","text":"The Minister has quite rightly identified the challenges in care homes as regards visits. It puts an extra burden on staff who are, in many cases, almost substitute families for the people under their care. Given that so many of our care homes are independently owned, can the Minister give an assurance to those hard-working and heroic staff in our care homes that they will also be eligible for the very welcome recognition payment that he announced last week?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for his question. There is work going on with regard to stakeholders in the independent sector, as to how we carry forward that recognition payment so that it can be properly utilised and get to the people who are the most deserving."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"That ends the period for listed questions. We now move to 15 minutes of topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201485%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323452","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-02-01&docID=324096#AQO%201485/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323452"}},{"id":"323211","reference":"AQW 13012/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-20","answerBy":"2021-02-04","answered":"2021-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the data transfer to the Department of Health will take place, confirming the list of Carers in receipt of Carers Allowance, to ensure there is no delay in those Carers defined in Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation group 6 from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine in Phase 2 roll-out.","answerText":"My Department will work with the Department of Health to facilitate any request that may be received to transfer data to ensure there is no delay in those Carers defined in Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation group 6 from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine in Phase 2 roll-out.","answerHtml":"My Department will work with the Department of Health to facilitate any request that may be received to transfer data to ensure there is no delay in those Carers defined in Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation group 6 from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine in Phase 2 roll-out.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013012%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323211","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323211"}},{"id":"323210","reference":"AQW 13011/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-20","answerBy":"2021-02-04","answered":"2021-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the data that will be transferred to the Department of Health on those in receipt of Carers Allowance will confirm any details about the person for which they care.","answerText":"My Department will work with the Department of Health to support the COVID-19 vaccination programme and will facilitate any request that is made to transfer data about those in receipt of Carers Allowance, or the people being cared, in line with GDPR.","answerHtml":"My Department will work with the Department of Health to support the COVID-19 vaccination programme and will facilitate any request that is made to transfer data about those in receipt of Carers Allowance, or the people being cared, in line with GDPR.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013011%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323210","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323210"}},{"id":"323209","reference":"AQW 13010/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-20","answerBy":"2021-02-04","answered":"2021-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will bring forward a promotion campaign to encourage carers, especially unpaid carers, to self-register with their local Health and Social Care Trust to ensure those carers are officially registered and can receive the COVID-19 vaccine as intended by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation in their Priority Group List, group 6.","answerText":"Northern Ireland has been planning for the deployment of the COVID-19\n\nvaccine for many months. This has involved collaborative working across the Health and Social Care system in conjunction with our wider stakeholders and partners.\n\nIn particular, there was extensive consultation with carer’s groups to ensure widespread awareness and uptake when the vaccination programme was opened to carers in Priority Group 6.\n\nAt 17th March 2021, there has been significant uptake of vaccination among carers with 62,436 individuals identifying as carers having received a vaccination.\n\nAs all of the recent slots were filled so quickly, online booking for this cohort has been closed. All main carers who have still to book an appointment for vaccination are asked to contact their local Trust Carer Coordinator, who will take their contact details and pass to the vaccinating teams who will make contact to arrange an appointment.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland has been planning for the deployment of the COVID-19
vaccine for many months. This has involved collaborative working across the Health and Social Care system in conjunction with our wider stakeholders and partners.
In particular, there was extensive consultation with carer’s groups to ensure widespread awareness and uptake when the vaccination programme was opened to carers in Priority Group 6.
At 17th March 2021, there has been significant uptake of vaccination among carers with 62,436 individuals identifying as carers having received a vaccination.
As all of the recent slots were filled so quickly, online booking for this cohort has been closed. All main carers who have still to book an appointment for vaccination are asked to contact their local Trust Carer Coordinator, who will take their contact details and pass to the vaccinating teams who will make contact to arrange an appointment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013010%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323209","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323209"}},{"id":"323208","reference":"AQW 13009/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-20","answerBy":"2021-02-04","answered":"2021-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether the phrase freezing the regional rate in his statement of 18 Janaury 2021 means that COVID-19 support will continue or that the rate set for 2020/21 will continue but without any COVID-19 reductions in place.","answerText":"I announced on 18 January that the Executive intends to freeze both the domestic and non-domestic regional rates in 2021/22. This means that the regional rates set for 2020/21 will continue.\n\nThe COVID-19 reliefs put in place this year were applied to the rating liability on each property calculated after the regional and district rates were set. On 23 November 2020 I announced that I had set aside funding for additional business rates support in 2021/22 and I confirmed this in my draft budget statement on 21 January. Work is ongoing to determine how this support will be allocated.","answerHtml":"I announced on 18 January that the Executive intends to freeze both the domestic and non-domestic regional rates in 2021/22. This means that the regional rates set for 2020/21 will continue.
The COVID-19 reliefs put in place this year were applied to the rating liability on each property calculated after the regional and district rates were set. On 23 November 2020 I announced that I had set aside funding for additional business rates support in 2021/22 and I confirmed this in my draft budget statement on 21 January. Work is ongoing to determine how this support will be allocated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013009%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323208","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323208"}},{"id":"323207","reference":"AQW 13008/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-20","answerBy":"2021-02-04","answered":"2021-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what agreement has been reached with the Minister for Communities to target water infrastructure, particularly wastewater treatment works, in areas where the need for social housing is most acute and cannot continue unless such works are updated or installed.","answerText":"My Social and Environmental Guidance (‘the Guidance’) for Water and Sewerage Servcies, developed with input from key water stakeholders, sets out my social and environmental policies and priorities for water and sewerage services, for each six year Price Control period.\n\nThe Guidance was subject to a public consultation and approval by the NI Executive, which provided an opportunity for the Minister for Communties to comment on the proposed priorities.\n\nNI Water uses the Guidance to inform its Business Plan, and it is considered by the Utility Regulator in setting priorities for each Price Control period. The Business Plan includes a prioritised list of proposed schemes, which is agreed by all key water stakeholders.\n\nIt is vital that NI Water receives the necessary strategic level of funding from the Executive so that it can begin to resolve the wastewater capacity issues within so many areas. It will take multi-year certainty of funding of NI Water to deliver the PC21 Business Plan that is needed to begin transforming this essential infrastructure so that we can build the many affordable and social homes our citizens need. Therefore, a long-term funding commitment from the Executive is required to address the current state of water and wastewater infrastructure. I continue to make this case to Executive colleagues and wrote to the Executive jointly with Minsiter Poots as recently as 21 December 2020 setting out the compelling case for further investment, in terms of the economic, social and environmental impact of underinvestment in water and wastewater.\n\nIn addtion, officials from my Department have engaged with, and will continue to engage with, officials from the Department for Communities to discuss areas of high housing need. I have led on identifying the need for closer co-operation across local and central government in commissioning the analysis of such matters through the independent Ministerial Advisory Panel on Infrastructure and, indeed, I support the Panel’s recommendation that an Infrastructure Commission, with a clear remit and the support of the entire Executive, should be established as soon as practical.","answerHtml":"My Social and Environmental Guidance (‘the Guidance’) for Water and Sewerage Servcies, developed with input from key water stakeholders, sets out my social and environmental policies and priorities for water and sewerage services, for each six year Price Control period.
The Guidance was subject to a public consultation and approval by the NI Executive, which provided an opportunity for the Minister for Communties to comment on the proposed priorities.
NI Water uses the Guidance to inform its Business Plan, and it is considered by the Utility Regulator in setting priorities for each Price Control period. The Business Plan includes a prioritised list of proposed schemes, which is agreed by all key water stakeholders.
It is vital that NI Water receives the necessary strategic level of funding from the Executive so that it can begin to resolve the wastewater capacity issues within so many areas. It will take multi-year certainty of funding of NI Water to deliver the PC21 Business Plan that is needed to begin transforming this essential infrastructure so that we can build the many affordable and social homes our citizens need. Therefore, a long-term funding commitment from the Executive is required to address the current state of water and wastewater infrastructure. I continue to make this case to Executive colleagues and wrote to the Executive jointly with Minsiter Poots as recently as 21 December 2020 setting out the compelling case for further investment, in terms of the economic, social and environmental impact of underinvestment in water and wastewater.
In addtion, officials from my Department have engaged with, and will continue to engage with, officials from the Department for Communities to discuss areas of high housing need. I have led on identifying the need for closer co-operation across local and central government in commissioning the analysis of such matters through the independent Ministerial Advisory Panel on Infrastructure and, indeed, I support the Panel’s recommendation that an Infrastructure Commission, with a clear remit and the support of the entire Executive, should be established as soon as practical.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013008%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323207","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323207"}},{"id":"321738","reference":"AQW 12506/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-12","answerBy":"2021-01-20","answered":"2021-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will arrange for the reopening of priority shopping schemes for vulnerable people, and in particular for terminally ill patients diagnosed after the closure of the 2020 scheme.","answerText":"In response to the Covid emergency, my Department and the Department of Health worked to set up registrations for priority online shopping for those who were shielding. While the registration period ended in line with the pause in shielding at the end of June, prioritised slots with the major food retailers continue indefinitely for those who had been registered by this time. Importantly, all of the major retailers have significantly increased their capacity for online delivery in the intervening months and delivery capacity outside of the Christmas period has not been reported to be a major issue.\n\nAlongside the major retailers, there are also numerous delivery options through smaller shops as well as a large variety of independent retailers which now offer home delivery. More information on this can be located through the Consumer Council website at the following link https://www.consumercouncil.org.uk/coronavirus/vulnerable#section-2849\n\nMy Department will continue to keep the situation under review; if anyone who is Clinically Extremely Vulnerable is experiencing difficulty with accessing food, either through these routes or through family and friends, they should contact the COVID-19 Community Helpline on Freephone 0808 802 0020, text ACTION to 81025, or email covid19@adviceni.net","answerHtml":"In response to the Covid emergency, my Department and the Department of Health worked to set up registrations for priority online shopping for those who were shielding. While the registration period ended in line with the pause in shielding at the end of June, prioritised slots with the major food retailers continue indefinitely for those who had been registered by this time. Importantly, all of the major retailers have significantly increased their capacity for online delivery in the intervening months and delivery capacity outside of the Christmas period has not been reported to be a major issue.
Alongside the major retailers, there are also numerous delivery options through smaller shops as well as a large variety of independent retailers which now offer home delivery. More information on this can be located through the Consumer Council website at the following link https://www.consumercouncil.org.uk/coronavirus/vulnerable#section-2849
My Department will continue to keep the situation under review; if anyone who is Clinically Extremely Vulnerable is experiencing difficulty with accessing food, either through these routes or through family and friends, they should contact the COVID-19 Community Helpline on Freephone 0808 802 0020, text ACTION to 81025, or email covid19@adviceni.net
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012506%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321738","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321738"}},{"id":"321737","reference":"AQW 12505/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-12","answerBy":"2021-01-27","answered":"2021-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what steps she is taking to support and help students that are unable to meet full rent costs and are trapped in accommodation contracts.","answerText":"The main source of support for students facing genuine financial hardship is the Department for Economy led Student Hardship Fund which is allocated to the local Higher Education Institutions (HEI) for distribution to students who can demonstrate genuine financial hardship. Each HEI is responsible for assessing student’s need and issuing support within the guidelines of the scheme.\n\nAny students who may be experiencing financial hardship, should contact their Higher Education Institution to determine if they are eligible to receive support.","answerHtml":"The main source of support for students facing genuine financial hardship is the Department for Economy led Student Hardship Fund which is allocated to the local Higher Education Institutions (HEI) for distribution to students who can demonstrate genuine financial hardship. Each HEI is responsible for assessing student’s need and issuing support within the guidelines of the scheme.
Any students who may be experiencing financial hardship, should contact their Higher Education Institution to determine if they are eligible to receive support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012505%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321737","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321737"}},{"id":"321736","reference":"AQW 12504/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-12","answerBy":"2021-01-27","answered":"2021-01-14","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 she is taking to support and help students that are unable to meet full rent costs and are trapped in accommodation contracts.","answerText":"While my Department is responsible for higher education policy in relation to teaching and research in Northern Ireland, as autonomous institutions, universities are ultimately responsible for their own policies in relation to student accommodation. This includes setting the cost and also ensuring there are robust protocols in place to minimise the spread of Covid 19. My Department has no role or legal basis to intervene regarding student accommodation, whether that is for university-managed Halls of Residence or private rental.\n\nHowever, any students experiencing financial hardship should first of all ensure that they have applied online at www.studentfinanceni.co.uk for all the financial assistance to which they may be entitled. My Department delivers financial support to eligible Northern Ireland students through Student Finance NI, and by the end of November 2020 had provided £84m in maintenance loans and a further £37m in maintenance grants as a contribution towards students’ living costs during the academic year, including the cost of accommodation\n\nStudents who continue to find themselves in genuine financial hardship should contact their University to see if they are eligible for a hardship payment. These payments are funded through my Department and managed on my behalf by the universities, and in the 2020/21 financial year I have doubled the total amount of funding available for them from £2.8m to £5.6m in recognition of the economic conditions cause by the pandemic.","answerHtml":"While my Department is responsible for higher education policy in relation to teaching and research in Northern Ireland, as autonomous institutions, universities are ultimately responsible for their own policies in relation to student accommodation. This includes setting the cost and also ensuring there are robust protocols in place to minimise the spread of Covid 19. My Department has no role or legal basis to intervene regarding student accommodation, whether that is for university-managed Halls of Residence or private rental.
However, any students experiencing financial hardship should first of all ensure that they have applied online at www.studentfinanceni.co.uk for all the financial assistance to which they may be entitled. My Department delivers financial support to eligible Northern Ireland students through Student Finance NI, and by the end of November 2020 had provided £84m in maintenance loans and a further £37m in maintenance grants as a contribution towards students’ living costs during the academic year, including the cost of accommodation
Students who continue to find themselves in genuine financial hardship should contact their University to see if they are eligible for a hardship payment. These payments are funded through my Department and managed on my behalf by the universities, and in the 2020/21 financial year I have doubled the total amount of funding available for them from £2.8m to £5.6m in recognition of the economic conditions cause by the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012504%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321736","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321736"}},{"id":"321735","reference":"AQW 12503/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-12","answerBy":"2021-01-27","answered":"2021-01-21","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 tariff will be allocated for all exams and coursework at further education colleges and universities to ensure the impact of COVID-19 is taken into account when calculating grades.","answerText":"There are no plans at present to apply a discrete COVID-19 tariff for assessment units.\n\nThe normal ‘special consideration’ arrangements for learners will apply in those qualifications where assessments are going ahead. This special considerations process caters for learners who are unable to take assessments due to illness.\n\nCCEA Regulation is working with OFQUAL, Qualifications Wales and the relevant awarding organisations to ensure NI learners are not disadvantaged in any arrangements implemented by awarding organisations. Regulators and awarding organisations are aware of the impact of COVID-19 on teaching and learning. A range of adaptations and flexibilities have been introduced in vocational qualifications to address the challenges posed by the pandemic.\n\nThe priority for all awarding organisations is to ensure that learners receive fair and equitable results that allow for due consideration of progression pathways, whether that be to further study or employment.\n\nCCEA Regulation maintains regular contact with University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) and Irish Universities Association (IUA), and in particular Queen’s University Belfast and the University of Ulster. All are acutely aware of the impact of COVID-19 and CCEA Regulation will continue to work with them and all relevant stakeholders to ensure progression pathways are open to learners following Summer 2021 awarding.\n\nHowever, ultimately universities are autonomous institutions and therefore responsible for their own policies and procedures regarding examinations and coursework assessment. The Department has no remit in this matter. How the Universities take into account the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic when calculating grades will be a matter for each institution to decide.","answerHtml":"There are no plans at present to apply a discrete COVID-19 tariff for assessment units.
The normal ‘special consideration’ arrangements for learners will apply in those qualifications where assessments are going ahead. This special considerations process caters for learners who are unable to take assessments due to illness.
CCEA Regulation is working with OFQUAL, Qualifications Wales and the relevant awarding organisations to ensure NI learners are not disadvantaged in any arrangements implemented by awarding organisations. Regulators and awarding organisations are aware of the impact of COVID-19 on teaching and learning. A range of adaptations and flexibilities have been introduced in vocational qualifications to address the challenges posed by the pandemic.
The priority for all awarding organisations is to ensure that learners receive fair and equitable results that allow for due consideration of progression pathways, whether that be to further study or employment.
CCEA Regulation maintains regular contact with University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) and Irish Universities Association (IUA), and in particular Queen’s University Belfast and the University of Ulster. All are acutely aware of the impact of COVID-19 and CCEA Regulation will continue to work with them and all relevant stakeholders to ensure progression pathways are open to learners following Summer 2021 awarding.
However, ultimately universities are autonomous institutions and therefore responsible for their own policies and procedures regarding examinations and coursework assessment. The Department has no remit in this matter. How the Universities take into account the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic when calculating grades will be a matter for each institution to decide.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012503%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321735","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321735"}},{"id":"321734","reference":"AQW 12502/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-12","answerBy":"2021-01-27","answered":"2021-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to detail (i) the progress being made to ensure the Northern Ireland Assembly is a living wage employer; and (ii) the actions taken to ensure all suppliers to Parliament Buildings, contracted by the Commission, are meeting living wage standards.","answerText":"The Assembly Commission is already a living wage employer. The pay scales for all staff employed by the Assembly Commission exceed the National Living Wage. These pay scales are also applied to temporary workers engaged through a temporary worker agency. The Assembly Commission also has an Apprenticeship and Placement Framework. Apprentices engaged by the Assembly Commission through this Framework are paid the National Living Wage as opposed to the lower apprentice rate.\n\nAll of the Assembly Commission’s suppliers are required to comply with statutory requirements and this includes payment of the National Living Wage. For a contract where the contractor’s employees are employed exclusively on the Assembly Commission contract, pricing schedules are reviewed to ensure that these comply with the Living Wage requirement.","answerHtml":"The Assembly Commission is already a living wage employer. The pay scales for all staff employed by the Assembly Commission exceed the National Living Wage. These pay scales are also applied to temporary workers engaged through a temporary worker agency. The Assembly Commission also has an Apprenticeship and Placement Framework. Apprentices engaged by the Assembly Commission through this Framework are paid the National Living Wage as opposed to the lower apprentice rate.
All of the Assembly Commission’s suppliers are required to comply with statutory requirements and this includes payment of the National Living Wage. For a contract where the contractor’s employees are employed exclusively on the Assembly Commission contract, pricing schedules are reviewed to ensure that these comply with the Living Wage requirement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012502%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321734","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321734"}},{"id":"323114","reference":"AQO 1414/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-11","answerBy":"2021-01-18","answered":"2021-01-19","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 what discussions he has had with the Republic of Ireland Government regarding how to better utilise the ferry route between Dublin and Holyhead.","answerText":"Dublin is an important transport route for hauliers transporting goods between Northern Ireland and GB, and I am keen to ensure NI businesses continue to have easy access to their GB markets via Dublin Port.\n\nI have written to my counterpart in DAFM to emphasise the need to expedite an effective fast track system for NI produce moving through Dublin Port that provides easy access for goods moving from NI to GB. I have also asked for an urgent meeting with him to discuss the matter further.","answerHtml":"Dublin is an important transport route for hauliers transporting goods between Northern Ireland and GB, and I am keen to ensure NI businesses continue to have easy access to their GB markets via Dublin Port.
I have written to my counterpart in DAFM to emphasise the need to expedite an effective fast track system for NI produce moving through Dublin Port that provides easy access for goods moving from NI to GB. I have also asked for an urgent meeting with him to discuss the matter further.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201414%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323114"}},{"id":"321027","reference":"AQW 12382/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-31","answerBy":"2021-01-18","answered":"2021-01-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of children given a statement of Special Education Needs in each month for the past 5 years up to December 2020, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is unable to provide robust information on the number of completed statements by month over the last five years. Data in the table below shows the number of statements completed each month for the period April 2019 to December 2020 by each of the five EA area offices. It is not possible to provide information broken down by constituency, as it is not collected in that format.\n\nFinal Statements Issued by Month by Office\nArmagh\tBallymena\tBelfast\tDundonald\tOmagh\tTotal\n2019\nApr\t28\t22\t29\t53\t19\t151\nMay\t27\t25\t10\t14\t33\t109\nJun\t22\t25\t14\t18\t38\t117\nJul\t16\t31\t34\t27\t35\t143\nAug\t33\t32\t20\t40\t25\t150\nSep\t51\t53\t45\t30\t64\t243\nOct\t53\t49\t79\t77\t63\t321\nNov\t105\t64\t35\t61\t65\t330\nDec\t48\t64\t38\t48\t55\t253\n2020\nJan\t70\t65\t116\t68\t46\t365\nFeb\t64\t52\t39\t81\t27\t263\nMar\t44\t26\t54\t69\t37\t230\nApr\t16\t5\t9\t19\t3\t52\nMay\t108\t45\t11\t48\t61\t273\nJun\t33\t67\t70\t39\t71\t280\nJul\t37\t89\t54\t51\t48\t279\nAug\t98\t7\t73\t34\t82\t294\nSep\t122\t91\t110\t173\t78\t574\nOct\t108\t73\t48\t74\t74\t377\nNov\t147\t111\t60\t113\t63\t494\nDec\t35\t39\t78\t64\t43\t259\nGrand Total\t1265\t1035\t1026\t1201\t1030\t5557","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is unable to provide robust information on the number of completed statements by month over the last five years. Data in the table below shows the number of statements completed each month for the period April 2019 to December 2020 by each of the five EA area offices. It is not possible to provide information broken down by constituency, as it is not collected in that format.
| Final Statements Issued by Month by Office | ||||||
| Armagh | Ballymena | Belfast | Dundonald | Omagh | Total | |
| 2019 | ||||||
| Apr | 28 | 22 | 29 | 53 | 19 | 151 |
| May | 27 | 25 | 10 | 14 | 33 | 109 |
| Jun | 22 | 25 | 14 | 18 | 38 | 117 |
| Jul | 16 | 31 | 34 | 27 | 35 | 143 |
| Aug | 33 | 32 | 20 | 40 | 25 | 150 |
| Sep | 51 | 53 | 45 | 30 | 64 | 243 |
| Oct | 53 | 49 | 79 | 77 | 63 | 321 |
| Nov | 105 | 64 | 35 | 61 | 65 | 330 |
| Dec | 48 | 64 | 38 | 48 | 55 | 253 |
| 2020 | ||||||
| Jan | 70 | 65 | 116 | 68 | 46 | 365 |
| Feb | 64 | 52 | 39 | 81 | 27 | 263 |
| Mar | 44 | 26 | 54 | 69 | 37 | 230 |
| Apr | 16 | 5 | 9 | 19 | 3 | 52 |
| May | 108 | 45 | 11 | 48 | 61 | 273 |
| Jun | 33 | 67 | 70 | 39 | 71 | 280 |
| Jul | 37 | 89 | 54 | 51 | 48 | 279 |
| Aug | 98 | 7 | 73 | 34 | 82 | 294 |
| Sep | 122 | 91 | 110 | 173 | 78 | 574 |
| Oct | 108 | 73 | 48 | 74 | 74 | 377 |
| Nov | 147 | 111 | 60 | 113 | 63 | 494 |
| Dec | 35 | 39 | 78 | 64 | 43 | 259 |
| Grand Total | 1265 | 1035 | 1026 | 1201 | 1030 | 5557 |
Following my announcement on 6 January 2021 that CCEA’s GCSE, AS and A level examinations are to be cancelled this year, work on a proposed COVID-19 tariff has ceased as it was to be applied to exam outcomes and is therefore no longer relevant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012381%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321026","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321026"}},{"id":"321025","reference":"AQW 12380/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-31","answerBy":"2021-01-18","answered":"2021-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to provide a copy of the advice given to schools confirming face masks are to be worn in classrooms or exam halls; (ii) what, if any, advice has been provided regarding social distancing; and (iii) what risk assessment measures the Education Authority and Council for Catholic Maintained Schools have provided staff in relation to the wearing of face masks and social distancing in classrooms or exam halls.","answerText":"Following the Executive’s agreement to adopt a more ambitious approach to the return to school, revised Education Restart Guidance relating to practical arrangements for re-opening schools was revised and published on 8 December 2020 taking account of new information. This will be reviewed and updated as we develop more stringent measures to try and prevent any further spread of the virus: for instance making use of face coverings in classrooms compulsory for post primary pupils unless exempt.\n\nWhile the Department of Health requirement for social distancing at 2m has not changed, the Executive, on 6 August 2020, agreed that the stringent application of social distancing requirements between pupils will be relaxed from 17 August.\n\nPublic Health guidance with respect to social distancing of 2 metres (2m) will remain in place between adults and as far as possible between adults and pupils.\n\nSocial distancing applies to staff, older pupils, parents (and any others who may attend the school) and any external contractors or delivery people and should be considered in all relevant areas of schools, including classrooms, indoor and outdoor spaces as well as those not used for learning and teaching (e.g. cloakrooms, entrance halls, resource areas etc.)\n\nThe AQE examinations are planned to go ahead on 27 February, and I have written to the private organisation who host these tests asking them to advise me of the mitigating measures being put in place so that children sit the examinations in line with current guidance relating to social distancing and public health measures.\n\nRisk assessments will be in the regulations, and that they will apply to the premises where more than 6 staff are present (formerly this was 15), and to the individual teachers.\n\nI’ll am seeking further clarity as this develops, my Department is working with EA colleagues to ensure that we have the relevant assessments in place within schools.","answerHtml":"Following the Executive’s agreement to adopt a more ambitious approach to the return to school, revised Education Restart Guidance relating to practical arrangements for re-opening schools was revised and published on 8 December 2020 taking account of new information. This will be reviewed and updated as we develop more stringent measures to try and prevent any further spread of the virus: for instance making use of face coverings in classrooms compulsory for post primary pupils unless exempt.
While the Department of Health requirement for social distancing at 2m has not changed, the Executive, on 6 August 2020, agreed that the stringent application of social distancing requirements between pupils will be relaxed from 17 August.
Public Health guidance with respect to social distancing of 2 metres (2m) will remain in place between adults and as far as possible between adults and pupils.
Social distancing applies to staff, older pupils, parents (and any others who may attend the school) and any external contractors or delivery people and should be considered in all relevant areas of schools, including classrooms, indoor and outdoor spaces as well as those not used for learning and teaching (e.g. cloakrooms, entrance halls, resource areas etc.)
The AQE examinations are planned to go ahead on 27 February, and I have written to the private organisation who host these tests asking them to advise me of the mitigating measures being put in place so that children sit the examinations in line with current guidance relating to social distancing and public health measures.
Risk assessments will be in the regulations, and that they will apply to the premises where more than 6 staff are present (formerly this was 15), and to the individual teachers.
I’ll am seeking further clarity as this develops, my Department is working with EA colleagues to ensure that we have the relevant assessments in place within schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012380%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321025","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321025"}},{"id":"321024","reference":"AQW 12379/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-31","answerBy":"2021-01-18","answered":"2021-01-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide a copy of the exemption from COVID-19 regulations provided to AQE and PPTC by his Department or an arm's-length body of his Department.","answerText":"The transfer tests are a private arrangement between the test providers and the host schools. The host schools which operate as test centres are required to comply fully with Health Protection legislation; this includes ensuring statutory risk assessments are carried out and that all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of the coronavirus, including implementing the preventive and protective measures identified in those risk assessments are taken.\n\nThe legislation, not the Department, provides exemptions to the general prohibition on gatherings of more than fifteen people for specified purposes including educational purposes.\n\nYou will aware of the announcement made by AQE Ltd on 13 January to cancel its assessment which had been scheduled for 27 February citing uncertainties surrounding the easing of coronavirus restrictions. You will appreciate that this will come as a huge disappointment to many pupils and parents who have worked hard to prepare for the tests in the hope of getting into a school of their choice.\n\nIn view of that announcement the issue of risk assessments no longer arises.","answerHtml":"The transfer tests are a private arrangement between the test providers and the host schools. The host schools which operate as test centres are required to comply fully with Health Protection legislation; this includes ensuring statutory risk assessments are carried out and that all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of the coronavirus, including implementing the preventive and protective measures identified in those risk assessments are taken.
The legislation, not the Department, provides exemptions to the general prohibition on gatherings of more than fifteen people for specified purposes including educational purposes.
You will aware of the announcement made by AQE Ltd on 13 January to cancel its assessment which had been scheduled for 27 February citing uncertainties surrounding the easing of coronavirus restrictions. You will appreciate that this will come as a huge disappointment to many pupils and parents who have worked hard to prepare for the tests in the hope of getting into a school of their choice.
In view of that announcement the issue of risk assessments no longer arises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012379%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321024","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321024"}},{"id":"321023","reference":"AQW 12378/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-31","answerBy":"2021-01-18","answered":"2021-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide a copy of the advice provided to Boards of Governors regarding the cost to sanitise school premises following provision of the AQE or PPTC test.","answerText":"My Department, in conjunction with the Education Authority, will continue to monitor funding requirements as the pandemic progresses.\n\nThe Education Authority (EA) have not provided guidance or been asked for support for enhanced cleaning arrangements for any circumstances pertaining to the transfer test. The EA provide an enhanced cleaning service in the event of a positive COVID case.","answerHtml":"My Department, in conjunction with the Education Authority, will continue to monitor funding requirements as the pandemic progresses.
The Education Authority (EA) have not provided guidance or been asked for support for enhanced cleaning arrangements for any circumstances pertaining to the transfer test. The EA provide an enhanced cleaning service in the event of a positive COVID case.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012378%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321023","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321023"}},{"id":"320991","reference":"AQW 12348/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-30","answerBy":"2021-01-08","answered":"2021-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy why businesses involving sports where participants get out of breath and have, therefore, been instructed to remain closed from 11 December 2020, have not continued to receive financial support; and whether she will instruct Invest NI to continue to provide weekly allocations to these businesses.","answerText":"The policy intent of the Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme (CRBSS) is to provide support to businesses who are named in the Health Protection Regulations effective from 16 October, or in the direct supply chain and have been significantly impacted by the regulations, and are not receiving other support from other NI Covid related schemes.\n\nAs such, businesses that are eligible for CRBSS and were required to stay closed from 11 December 2020 to 25 December 2020 via the Health Protection Regulations will receive support for this period at the same rate as the other periods of restrictions. Confirmation of this has been provided to Invest NI.","answerHtml":"The policy intent of the Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme (CRBSS) is to provide support to businesses who are named in the Health Protection Regulations effective from 16 October, or in the direct supply chain and have been significantly impacted by the regulations, and are not receiving other support from other NI Covid related schemes.
As such, businesses that are eligible for CRBSS and were required to stay closed from 11 December 2020 to 25 December 2020 via the Health Protection Regulations will receive support for this period at the same rate as the other periods of restrictions. Confirmation of this has been provided to Invest NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012348%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320991"}},{"id":"320990","reference":"AQW 12347/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-30","answerBy":"2021-01-15","answered":"2021-01-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what exemptions from COVID-19 regulations have been given to the the arm's-length bodies managed by his Department, namely the Education Authority and CCMS, that allows schools under their authority to permit hire of premises for mass gatherings arranged by AQE and PPTC during January 2021.","answerText":"The transfer tests are a private arrangement between the test providers and the host schools. The host schools which operate as test centres are required to comply fully with Health Protection legislation; this includes ensuring statutory risk assessments are carried out and that all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of the coronavirus, including implementing the preventive and protective measures identified in those risk assessments are taken.\n\nThe legislation, not the Department, provides exemptions to the general prohibition on gatherings of more than fifteen people for specified purposes including educational purposes.\n\nYou will aware of the announcement made by AQE Ltd on 13 January to cancel its assessment which had been scheduled for 27 February citing uncertainties surrounding the easing of coronavirus restrictions. You will appreciate that this will come as a huge disappointment to many pupils and parents who have worked hard to prepare for the tests in the hope of getting into a school of their choice.\n\nIn view of that announcement the issue of risk assessments no longer arises.","answerHtml":"The transfer tests are a private arrangement between the test providers and the host schools. The host schools which operate as test centres are required to comply fully with Health Protection legislation; this includes ensuring statutory risk assessments are carried out and that all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of the coronavirus, including implementing the preventive and protective measures identified in those risk assessments are taken.
The legislation, not the Department, provides exemptions to the general prohibition on gatherings of more than fifteen people for specified purposes including educational purposes.
You will aware of the announcement made by AQE Ltd on 13 January to cancel its assessment which had been scheduled for 27 February citing uncertainties surrounding the easing of coronavirus restrictions. You will appreciate that this will come as a huge disappointment to many pupils and parents who have worked hard to prepare for the tests in the hope of getting into a school of their choice.
In view of that announcement the issue of risk assessments no longer arises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012347%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320990"}},{"id":"320989","reference":"AQW 12346/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-30","answerBy":"2021-01-15","answered":"2021-01-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when the risk assessments relating to AQE and PPTC were reviewed by his Department, or by its arm's-length bodies, to ensure they comply with COVID-19 regulations and required safety measures.","answerText":"The transfer tests are a private arrangement between the test providers and the host schools. The host schools which operate as test centres are required to comply fully with Health Protection legislation; this includes ensuring statutory risk assessments are carried out and that all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of the coronavirus, including implementing the preventive and protective measures identified in those risk assessments are taken.\n\nThe legislation, not the Department, provides exemptions to the general prohibition on gatherings of more than fifteen people for specified purposes including educational purposes.\n\nYou will aware of the announcement made by AQE Ltd on 13 January to cancel its assessment which had been scheduled for 27 February citing uncertainties surrounding the easing of coronavirus restrictions. You will appreciate that this will come as a huge disappointment to many pupils and parents who have worked hard to prepare for the tests in the hope of getting into a school of their choice.\n\nIn view of that announcement the issue of risk assessments no longer arises.","answerHtml":"The transfer tests are a private arrangement between the test providers and the host schools. The host schools which operate as test centres are required to comply fully with Health Protection legislation; this includes ensuring statutory risk assessments are carried out and that all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of the coronavirus, including implementing the preventive and protective measures identified in those risk assessments are taken.
The legislation, not the Department, provides exemptions to the general prohibition on gatherings of more than fifteen people for specified purposes including educational purposes.
You will aware of the announcement made by AQE Ltd on 13 January to cancel its assessment which had been scheduled for 27 February citing uncertainties surrounding the easing of coronavirus restrictions. You will appreciate that this will come as a huge disappointment to many pupils and parents who have worked hard to prepare for the tests in the hope of getting into a school of their choice.
In view of that announcement the issue of risk assessments no longer arises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012346%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320989","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320989"}},{"id":"320988","reference":"AQW 12345/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-30","answerBy":"2021-01-15","answered":"2021-01-21","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 JobStart scheme, including the number of business which have expressed interest and the geographical spread of the placement opportunities.","answerText":"The Minister for Communities was due to launch the JobStart Scheme on 14 December 2020. Unfortunately the Department has had to delay the launch of the Scheme, which will be further impacted by the latest announcement of tighter Covid-19 restrictions In light of this the Department is keeping the launch date for the Scheme under review.\n\nTo develop the JobStart Scheme the Department has worked collaboratively with key stakeholders including other departments, local government, employers and the voluntary and community sector to ensure efforts are aligned to obtain the best outcomes for those most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\nAs businesses of all sizes and from all sectors are eligible to apply to the JobStart Scheme, the Department has engaged widely with employers and employer representative bodies, including the Federation of Small Businesses, Construction Industry Training Board, NI Chamber of Commerce and Business in the Community. Webinar based engagement has also been made with approximately 170 employers through InvestNI.\n\nThe Department has also been engaging with individual councils to promote the JobStart Scheme. The five Health and Social Care have also shown an interest in the JobStart Scheme.\n\nOverall the feedback from employers and employer bodies has been very positive. The JobStart Scheme is, and will continue to be, an agile Scheme and the Department is committed to continuously improving it by listening to feedback from both employers and young people.\n\nAs the Scheme is not yet open for employer applications the Department cannot provide details on the geographical spread of the placement opportunities.","answerHtml":"The Minister for Communities was due to launch the JobStart Scheme on 14 December 2020. Unfortunately the Department has had to delay the launch of the Scheme, which will be further impacted by the latest announcement of tighter Covid-19 restrictions In light of this the Department is keeping the launch date for the Scheme under review.
To develop the JobStart Scheme the Department has worked collaboratively with key stakeholders including other departments, local government, employers and the voluntary and community sector to ensure efforts are aligned to obtain the best outcomes for those most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
As businesses of all sizes and from all sectors are eligible to apply to the JobStart Scheme, the Department has engaged widely with employers and employer representative bodies, including the Federation of Small Businesses, Construction Industry Training Board, NI Chamber of Commerce and Business in the Community. Webinar based engagement has also been made with approximately 170 employers through InvestNI.
The Department has also been engaging with individual councils to promote the JobStart Scheme. The five Health and Social Care have also shown an interest in the JobStart Scheme.
Overall the feedback from employers and employer bodies has been very positive. The JobStart Scheme is, and will continue to be, an agile Scheme and the Department is committed to continuously improving it by listening to feedback from both employers and young people.
As the Scheme is not yet open for employer applications the Department cannot provide details on the geographical spread of the placement opportunities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012345%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320988","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320988"}},{"id":"320987","reference":"AQW 12344/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-30","answerBy":"2021-01-15","answered":"2021-07-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether there is any exception to COVID-19 regulations for private companies to arrange mass gatherings indoors, where a large group of people are asked to attend at the same time and then grouped into 15 per separate room; and whether such arrangements are in-keeping with COVID-19 regulations.","answerText":"There is no maximum cap on indoor gatherings, excluding those in private home. The maximum number that can attend is to be decided on a risk assessed basis, ensuring all reasonable measures are put in place to mitigate the risk of transmission of Covid-19. A risk assessment is required for all indoor gatherings of over 15 people.","answerHtml":"There is no maximum cap on indoor gatherings, excluding those in private home. The maximum number that can attend is to be decided on a risk assessed basis, ensuring all reasonable measures are put in place to mitigate the risk of transmission of Covid-19. A risk assessment is required for all indoor gatherings of over 15 people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012344%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320987","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320987"}},{"id":"320833","reference":"AQW 12282/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-18","answerBy":"2020-12-30","answered":"2020-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities why the Health and Safety capital grant scheme requires arts organisations, that have not been able to generate income during the pandemic, to purchase all items in advance when they do not have the cash flow; and why there is not an option for direct payment to suppliers imbedded in the grant.","answerText":"The Health & Safety Capital Programme is administered by the Arts Council on behalf of my Department.\n\nThe conditions attached to the grant offers are in line with the Arts Council’s established good practice in the distribution of capital equipment grants.\n\nApplicants are made aware in the published guidance notes for the programme that payments will be made retrospectively. Every effort is made to pay organisations promptly as per the conditions in Letters of Offer (within 10 working days of receipt of proof of payment) as it is recognised that timely payment is important to organisations’ cashflows and that delays can cause problems, which we seek to avoid.\n\nThe Arts Council’s relationship is with the funded client (the grant recipient), not with any supplier to the grant-aided organisation. It would not be practical for the Arts Council to enter into contractual relationships with suppliers on behalf of clients in order to make direct payments or take responsibility for supplied goods.","answerHtml":"The Health & Safety Capital Programme is administered by the Arts Council on behalf of my Department.
The conditions attached to the grant offers are in line with the Arts Council’s established good practice in the distribution of capital equipment grants.
Applicants are made aware in the published guidance notes for the programme that payments will be made retrospectively. Every effort is made to pay organisations promptly as per the conditions in Letters of Offer (within 10 working days of receipt of proof of payment) as it is recognised that timely payment is important to organisations’ cashflows and that delays can cause problems, which we seek to avoid.
The Arts Council’s relationship is with the funded client (the grant recipient), not with any supplier to the grant-aided organisation. It would not be practical for the Arts Council to enter into contractual relationships with suppliers on behalf of clients in order to make direct payments or take responsibility for supplied goods.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012282%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320833","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320833"}},{"id":"320832","reference":"AQW 12281/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-18","answerBy":"2021-01-07","answered":"2021-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how she plans to fund vital employment support services for people with disabilities, given the UK Government is limiting the purposes for what the Shared Prosperity Fund can be used.","answerText":"The Department for Communities (DfC) currently provides match funding to 14 disability projects in the European Social Fund Programme 2014 -2020.\n\nIn order to consider the future policy and delivery options, DfE have established a project in collaboration with DfC to consider options and develop details of potential ESF succession arrangements. Whilst progress is being made on the project, the timetable for the development of a successor programme and securing the necessary funding is an extremely challenging one.\n\nThe Department of Finance leads the response to the Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) on behalf of the Executive","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities (DfC) currently provides match funding to 14 disability projects in the European Social Fund Programme 2014 -2020.
In order to consider the future policy and delivery options, DfE have established a project in collaboration with DfC to consider options and develop details of potential ESF succession arrangements. Whilst progress is being made on the project, the timetable for the development of a successor programme and securing the necessary funding is an extremely challenging one.
The Department of Finance leads the response to the Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) on behalf of the Executive
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012281%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320832","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320832"}},{"id":"320831","reference":"AQW 12280/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-18","answerBy":"2021-01-07","answered":"2021-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will ensure that the Disability Strategy includes agreed standards that must be adopted and implemented across all Departments, such as all disabled parking bays must comply with Disabled Parking Accreditation standards as designed by Disabled Motoring UK and managed by the British Parking Association.","answerText":"Work on a new Disability Strategy is ongoing. A Cross-departmental Working Group has been convened to consider and agree the actions that departments will take forward as part of the Strategy’s action plan. The Department for Infrastructure is represented on this Group.\n\nThe Cross-departmental Working Group will work to ensure that actions are resourced, measureable and targeted at the areas of greatest need identified by the Disability Strategy Co-design Group. The Co-design Group is made up of representatives from the disability sector, including those with lived experience of access issues.\n\nAny actions requiring cross-departmental agreement will be considered as the work of the Disability Strategy Cross-departmental Working Group progresses.","answerHtml":"Work on a new Disability Strategy is ongoing. A Cross-departmental Working Group has been convened to consider and agree the actions that departments will take forward as part of the Strategy’s action plan. The Department for Infrastructure is represented on this Group.
The Cross-departmental Working Group will work to ensure that actions are resourced, measureable and targeted at the areas of greatest need identified by the Disability Strategy Co-design Group. The Co-design Group is made up of representatives from the disability sector, including those with lived experience of access issues.
Any actions requiring cross-departmental agreement will be considered as the work of the Disability Strategy Cross-departmental Working Group progresses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012280%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320831","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320831"}},{"id":"320830","reference":"AQW 12279/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-18","answerBy":"2021-01-07","answered":"2020-12-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will meet with the NI Companion Animal Welfare Group and myself to discuss options to give permission for companion animals to travel on public transport with their owner.","answerText":"I would be happy to meet with the NI Companion Animal Welfare Group and yourself in relation to companion animals on public transport. I should be grateful if you could contact my office to make the appropriate arrangements.","answerHtml":"I would be happy to meet with the NI Companion Animal Welfare Group and yourself in relation to companion animals on public transport. I should be grateful if you could contact my office to make the appropriate arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012279%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320830","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320830"}},{"id":"320829","reference":"AQW 12278/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-18","answerBy":"2021-01-07","answered":"2021-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will bring forward regulations to ensure all parking bays that claim to be accessible must meet the criteria and standards defined in the Disabled Parking Accreditation as designed by Disabled Motoring UK and managed by the British Parking Association.","answerText":"Disabled Motoring UK introduced the Disabled Parking Accreditation (DPA) to recognise off-street parking facilities which are accessible to disabled people. The vast majority of public off-street car parks are managed by Councils. My Department has no current plans to introduce regulation to require compliance with this third party accreditation scheme.","answerHtml":"Disabled Motoring UK introduced the Disabled Parking Accreditation (DPA) to recognise off-street parking facilities which are accessible to disabled people. The vast majority of public off-street car parks are managed by Councils. My Department has no current plans to introduce regulation to require compliance with this third party accreditation scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012278%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320829","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320829"}},{"id":"320596","reference":"AQW 12137/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-16","answerBy":"2021-01-05","answered":"2021-01-19","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 whether (i) the Northern Ireland Environment Agency inspect and report on the activities of quarries where a license exists but they do not appear on the UK Government's list of businesses and sites registered for the Aggregates Levy and; (ii) a quarry that has not appeared on the list for more than two years, and, therefore, has not paid a levy, can have the license removed.","answerText":"The operation of, and compliance with, the Aggregates Levy Scheme is a matter for HMRC. The licencing of the quarry operations and its compliance in this regard is a matter for the Department for the Economy.\n\nWith regard to quarries the Northern Ireland Environment Agency’s (NIEA) role is only in relation to permits or consents regarding surface water, groundwater, emissions to air and waste materials. NIEA will undertake inspections and regulate the site in order to ensure compliance with the permits and consents which they issue.","answerHtml":"The operation of, and compliance with, the Aggregates Levy Scheme is a matter for HMRC. The licencing of the quarry operations and its compliance in this regard is a matter for the Department for the Economy.
With regard to quarries the Northern Ireland Environment Agency’s (NIEA) role is only in relation to permits or consents regarding surface water, groundwater, emissions to air and waste materials. NIEA will undertake inspections and regulate the site in order to ensure compliance with the permits and consents which they issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012137%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320596","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320596"}},{"id":"320595","reference":"AQW 12136/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-16","answerBy":"2021-01-05","answered":"2021-01-19","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 whether a quarry such as Fishquarter Quarry, Kircubbin, that does not, and has not appeared, on the UK Government's list of businesses and sites registered for the Aggregates Levy is permitted to continue to operate when no levy is being paid on the materials being removed.","answerText":"My Department does not have responsibility for the operation of Aggregates Levy. The licencing of the quarry operations and its compliance in this regard is a matter for the Department for the Economy while compliance with the Aggregate Levy Scheme is a matter for HMRC.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have responsibility for the operation of Aggregates Levy. The licencing of the quarry operations and its compliance in this regard is a matter for the Department for the Economy while compliance with the Aggregate Levy Scheme is a matter for HMRC.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012136%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320595","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320595"}},{"id":"320594","reference":"AQW 12135/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-16","answerBy":"2021-01-05","answered":"2021-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the grades and experience of (i) NICS staff; and (ii) non-NICS personnel who will sit on the recruitment panel for the Chair and the other panel members of the Independent Review of Education.","answerText":"My Department is currently working with the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointment (OCPANI) to finalise arrangements for the recruitment process, expected to commence in January 2021.\n\nThe recruitment panel is expected to include Senior Officials from a number of Departments including the Department of Education.\n\nThe selection panel will also include an Independent Assessor allocated by OCPANI.\n\nSelection panel members will be fully briefed on the work of the Review and the Commissioner’s Code of Practice and will have received appropriate training.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently working with the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointment (OCPANI) to finalise arrangements for the recruitment process, expected to commence in January 2021.
The recruitment panel is expected to include Senior Officials from a number of Departments including the Department of Education.
The selection panel will also include an Independent Assessor allocated by OCPANI.
Selection panel members will be fully briefed on the work of the Review and the Commissioner’s Code of Practice and will have received appropriate training.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012135%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320594","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320594"}},{"id":"320593","reference":"AQW 12134/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-16","answerBy":"2021-01-05","answered":"2021-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to define the criteria he will be asking applicants to demonstrate to prove the required appropriate (i) experience; (ii) skills and (iii) personal qualities for the role of chair and panel members for the Independent Review of Education.","answerText":"My Department is currently working with the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointment (OCPANI) to finalise arrangements for the recruitment process, expected to commence in January 2021.\n\nA candidate information booklet, appointment plan and other relevant documentation will be published in due course once agreed. This will include detail on the criteria, skills and personal qualities for each of the roles and the process for application.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently working with the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointment (OCPANI) to finalise arrangements for the recruitment process, expected to commence in January 2021.
A candidate information booklet, appointment plan and other relevant documentation will be published in due course once agreed. This will include detail on the criteria, skills and personal qualities for each of the roles and the process for application.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012134%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320593","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320593"}},{"id":"320404","reference":"AQW 12062/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-15","answerBy":"2020-12-23","answered":"2020-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the times and dates on which her benefits officers will not be available by phone or online over the Christmas and New Year period for new or existing claimants to be able to seek advice and help.","answerText":"Telephone lines within Disability Carers Service, Pensions Centre and Personal Independence Payment will be operational from 10am to 4pm on every day except 24, 25 and 28 December, and 1 January 2021.\n\nUniversal Credit is an interactive digital online service which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.\n\nCustomers can make a claim and maintain their Universal Credit account online. They can also interact with their Work Coach or Case Manager through their online journal. However, Universal Credit staff will not be available to engage with and respond to customer journal entries on 24, 25, 28 December 2020 and 1 January 2021. We will endeavour to respond to any journal messages received from customers during this period as promptly as possible following our return to work on 29 December 2020 and 4 January 2021.\n\nUniversal Credit telephony services which usually operate Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm, will close at 4pm on 23 December 2020 and reopen at 10am on 29 December 2021. Lines will also close at 4pm on 31 December 2020 and reopen at 10am on 4 January 2021.\n\nAnyone due a Universal Credit payment on 24, 25, 28 and 29 December 2020 or 1 January 2021 will still be paid by that date.\n\nThe Employment and Support Allowance Centre will be closed 24 December to 28 December inclusive and again on 1 January 2021. Business will operate as normal up to and including 23 December and from 29 to 31 December. Operating hours for new online claims are 7am – 5pm and 9am – 4pm for telephony services for new and existing claimants.\n\nFinance Support staff will not be available on 24 December 2020, 25 December 2020, 28 December 2020 or 01 January 2021. Apart from these specified dates, telephone lines for Finance Support will be open Monday - Friday from 9am - 4pm and the Discretionary Support online form will be available 24/7 at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/claim-discretionary-support.\n\nThe Income Support and Jobseekers Allowance Benefit Processing Centres (BPCs) Freephone number is 0800 022 4250 and is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm. BPCs will be closed on 24, 25 and 28 December 2020 and 1 January 2021.","answerHtml":"Telephone lines within Disability Carers Service, Pensions Centre and Personal Independence Payment will be operational from 10am to 4pm on every day except 24, 25 and 28 December, and 1 January 2021.
Universal Credit is an interactive digital online service which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.
Customers can make a claim and maintain their Universal Credit account online. They can also interact with their Work Coach or Case Manager through their online journal. However, Universal Credit staff will not be available to engage with and respond to customer journal entries on 24, 25, 28 December 2020 and 1 January 2021. We will endeavour to respond to any journal messages received from customers during this period as promptly as possible following our return to work on 29 December 2020 and 4 January 2021.
Universal Credit telephony services which usually operate Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm, will close at 4pm on 23 December 2020 and reopen at 10am on 29 December 2021. Lines will also close at 4pm on 31 December 2020 and reopen at 10am on 4 January 2021.
Anyone due a Universal Credit payment on 24, 25, 28 and 29 December 2020 or 1 January 2021 will still be paid by that date.
The Employment and Support Allowance Centre will be closed 24 December to 28 December inclusive and again on 1 January 2021. Business will operate as normal up to and including 23 December and from 29 to 31 December. Operating hours for new online claims are 7am – 5pm and 9am – 4pm for telephony services for new and existing claimants.
Finance Support staff will not be available on 24 December 2020, 25 December 2020, 28 December 2020 or 01 January 2021. Apart from these specified dates, telephone lines for Finance Support will be open Monday - Friday from 9am - 4pm and the Discretionary Support online form will be available 24/7 at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/claim-discretionary-support.
The Income Support and Jobseekers Allowance Benefit Processing Centres (BPCs) Freephone number is 0800 022 4250 and is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm. BPCs will be closed on 24, 25 and 28 December 2020 and 1 January 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012062%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320404","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320404"}},{"id":"320403","reference":"AQW 12061/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-15","answerBy":"2021-01-04","answered":"2020-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether there are plans to review the effectiveness of Community Planning within Local Government; and whether she will consider updating their process to require a duty to cooperate.","answerText":"My Department is considering carrying out a review of the local government reform legislation, which will include a review of the effectiveness of Community Planning.\n\nAny decisions on subsequent changes to the legislation, including a duty to cooperate, would be considered once any review has been completed.","answerHtml":"My Department is considering carrying out a review of the local government reform legislation, which will include a review of the effectiveness of Community Planning.
Any decisions on subsequent changes to the legislation, including a duty to cooperate, would be considered once any review has been completed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012061%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320403","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320403"}},{"id":"320402","reference":"AQW 12060/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-15","answerBy":"2021-01-04","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how long the Dormant Account Scheme grant will be open for applications; and whether section 167 charities will be able to apply to support the work they deliver.","answerText":"The Dormant Accounts Fund will open for applications on the 12 January 2021. There is no closing date for applications to the Fund.\n\nOrganisations, including Section 167 charities delivering services here can apply to the Fund. It is for the National Lottery Community Fund to set the eligibility criteria for the Fund in line with the policy directions provided to it by the Department of Finance. Full details of the Fund can be found on TNLF website at www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/northern-ireland","answerHtml":"The Dormant Accounts Fund will open for applications on the 12 January 2021. There is no closing date for applications to the Fund.
Organisations, including Section 167 charities delivering services here can apply to the Fund. It is for the National Lottery Community Fund to set the eligibility criteria for the Fund in line with the policy directions provided to it by the Department of Finance. Full details of the Fund can be found on TNLF website at www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/northern-ireland
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012060%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320402","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320402"}},{"id":"320401","reference":"AQW 12059/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-15","answerBy":"2021-01-04","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether all COVID-19 monies underspends will be reallocated to enable people who have yet to see any financial support to receive such support, such as unpaid carers.","answerText":"All available funding will be considered in light of the needs identified by Ministers as part of the in-year monitoring process. It is for the Executive to determine allocations in line with local needs and priorities.","answerHtml":"All available funding will be considered in light of the needs identified by Ministers as part of the in-year monitoring process. It is for the Executive to determine allocations in line with local needs and priorities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012059%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320401","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320401"}},{"id":"320400","reference":"AQW 12058/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-15","answerBy":"2021-01-04","answered":"2020-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the stakeholders involved as part of the co-production and co-design of amendments to Building Regulations.","answerText":"The local Building Regulations Advisory Committee (NIBRAC) is a statutory body set up under Article 4 of the Building Regulations (NI) Order 1979 to advise the Department on the amendment of building regulations and other associated matters.\n\nThe Department works with NIBRAC to develop proposals for stakeholder engagement and consultation to inform proposals for amending regulations and associated technical guidance. The Department maintains a list of 396 stakeholders who are notified for consultation purposes.\n\nNIBRAC technical sub-committees are also established, as required, and should additional expertise be necessary, external experts are co-opted as required. NIBRAC members chair technical sub-committees, which are expected to report regularly to the full committee so that progress can be monitored and considered.\n\nCurrently three technical sub-committees have been established and have commenced work in the areas of (i) Fire safety; (ii) Conservation of fuel and power; and (iii) Access to and use of Buildings (to introduce requirements for Changing Places Toilets).\n\nNIBRAC sub-committees members have been drawn from academia; the Fire and Rescue Service; District Councils; local charities who work with people with disabilities; the Construction Industry; the Northern Ireland Housing Executive; and Housing Associations.\n\nThe Department liaises with the local construction industry on Building Regulations issues through the Construction Industry Forum (CIFNI) which established Building Regulations Task Groups in 2019/20 specifically for this purpose. The Department also engages with District Councils’ Building Control, who are responsible for enforcement of the Building Regulations within their council boundaries, through regular Building Control liaison meetings.","answerHtml":"The local Building Regulations Advisory Committee (NIBRAC) is a statutory body set up under Article 4 of the Building Regulations (NI) Order 1979 to advise the Department on the amendment of building regulations and other associated matters.
The Department works with NIBRAC to develop proposals for stakeholder engagement and consultation to inform proposals for amending regulations and associated technical guidance. The Department maintains a list of 396 stakeholders who are notified for consultation purposes.
NIBRAC technical sub-committees are also established, as required, and should additional expertise be necessary, external experts are co-opted as required. NIBRAC members chair technical sub-committees, which are expected to report regularly to the full committee so that progress can be monitored and considered.
Currently three technical sub-committees have been established and have commenced work in the areas of (i) Fire safety; (ii) Conservation of fuel and power; and (iii) Access to and use of Buildings (to introduce requirements for Changing Places Toilets).
NIBRAC sub-committees members have been drawn from academia; the Fire and Rescue Service; District Councils; local charities who work with people with disabilities; the Construction Industry; the Northern Ireland Housing Executive; and Housing Associations.
The Department liaises with the local construction industry on Building Regulations issues through the Construction Industry Forum (CIFNI) which established Building Regulations Task Groups in 2019/20 specifically for this purpose. The Department also engages with District Councils’ Building Control, who are responsible for enforcement of the Building Regulations within their council boundaries, through regular Building Control liaison meetings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012058%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320400","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320400"}},{"id":"319827","reference":"AQW 11858/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-10","answerBy":"2020-12-29","answered":"2020-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether dance studios and performing arts, involving all forms of dancing, have to close during the period from 11 December 2020 under the COVID-19 restrictions.","answerText":"Restrictions are subject to periodic change to take account of changing circumstances. Groups engaged in dance should check NIDirect and follow the up-to-date advice. They should also take into account the guidance published by the Arts Council for the reopening of the Arts.","answerHtml":"Restrictions are subject to periodic change to take account of changing circumstances. Groups engaged in dance should check NIDirect and follow the up-to-date advice. They should also take into account the guidance published by the Arts Council for the reopening of the Arts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011858%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319827","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319827"}},{"id":"318980","reference":"AQO 1355/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-03","answerBy":"2020-12-14","answered":"2020-12-14","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 the £150 million for longer-term support for business rates announced on 23 November 2020.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"My officials are working closely with the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre and other Departments to identify the business sectors most severely impacted by the economic consequences of the pandemic. That will allow me to determine how the relief can be applied to the best effect to support local business. I fully appreciate that businesses need as much clarity as possible on major costs such as rates in the longer term, and I intend to make a further statement on this in the near future."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"That ends the period for listed questions. We now move to topical questions for 15 minutes."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201355%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318980","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-12-14&docID=319621#AQO%201355/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318980"}},{"id":"318962","reference":"AQO 1337/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-03","answerBy":"2020-12-14","answered":"2020-12-14","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 what discussions they have had with Executive colleagues in order to bring forward reform of the petition of concern.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"The Member will be aware that the petition of concern is not a devolved matter. Provisions to effect the changes to its operation, as set out in New Decade, New Approach, will therefore be included in the Westminster Bill to be brought forward by the Secretary of State. The consequential amendments to Standing Orders will be for the Assembly to make thereafter."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"I thank the First Minister very much for her answer. In the run-up to the centenary of Northern Ireland, does she believe that it is time to change the designations so that people, like myself and others, who are designated as \"others\", will have an equal voice in the House?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"I say to the Member that, if we want to reopen all of the Belfast Agreement again, we can do that, and we can revisit all of the very difficult areas. We cannot deal with some of the issues that have already passed, such as the release of terrorist prisoners and the so-called reform of the RUC — I would call it the destruction of the RUC. There were a lot of things in the Belfast Agreement that were certainly not to my liking, and the Member knows that that comes from the Belfast Agreement, and if she wants to raise it in any talks process, we will listen to the arguments that are made."},{"speaker":"Mr Butler","text":"Can the Minister outline when the ministerial code of conduct will be brought before the Chamber?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"As I understand it, that is a matter for the Department of Finance."},{"speaker":"Ms Flynn","text":"Does the Minister agree that the petition of concern should be used only for the very precise purpose for which it was intended, as a cross-community safeguard?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"That is somewhat rewriting the Belfast Agreement, because there is no explanation in it of when the petition of concern should be used. However, others are adding things into the Belfast Agreement all of the time, and that is a matter for them. At the time of the Belfast Agreement, I did warn — if you want to, you can look at it — that the constructive ambiguity would be used in a way that was not foreseen at that time, and that has proven to be the case."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"That ends the period for listed questions. I call Justin McNulty to ask the first question in 15 minutes of topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201337%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318962","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-12-14&docID=319621#AQO%201337/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318962"}},{"id":"318709","reference":"AQW 11394/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-02","answerBy":"2020-12-10","answered":"2020-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether people have to receive both the Carer and Mobility elements at the higher rate to qualify for the Covid Winter Heat payment of £200, or whether a recipient on Higher Carer Rate, not the Mobility element be included.","answerText":"Those in receipt of Disability Living Allowance will be eligible for the Covid-19 Heating Payment if they receive either the highest rate care element or the higher rate mobility element, or both.\n\nThose in receipt of Personal Independence Payment will be eligible if they receive either the enhanced rate daily living element or the enhanced rate mobility element, or both.","answerHtml":"Those in receipt of Disability Living Allowance will be eligible for the Covid-19 Heating Payment if they receive either the highest rate care element or the higher rate mobility element, or both.
Those in receipt of Personal Independence Payment will be eligible if they receive either the enhanced rate daily living element or the enhanced rate mobility element, or both.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011394%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318709","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318709"}},{"id":"318708","reference":"AQW 11393/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-02","answerBy":"2020-12-17","answered":"2020-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether (i) Domiciliary Care workers, employed or contracted by Health and Social Care Trusts to deliver 'at home' care packages; (ii) unpaid volunteer and family cares; and (iii) children's care homes, foster carers or kinship carers, are included within the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation's definition of key workers.","answerText":"The programme in Northern Ireland will be based on five phases with all care home residents & staff, all Health and Social Care workers (including domiciliary care workers) and all those aged 80 years of age and older in the first phase. This will cover around 200k individuals and is likely to run from Mid-Dec to Jan/mid-Feb 2021.\n\nJCVI consider frontline health and social care workers who provide care to vulnerable people a high priority for vaccination. Protecting them protects the health and social care service and recognises the risks that they face in this service.\n\nFurther details regarding unpaid volunteer and family carers as well as children's care homes, foster carers or kinship carers will follow in due course.","answerHtml":"The programme in Northern Ireland will be based on five phases with all care home residents & staff, all Health and Social Care workers (including domiciliary care workers) and all those aged 80 years of age and older in the first phase. This will cover around 200k individuals and is likely to run from Mid-Dec to Jan/mid-Feb 2021.
JCVI consider frontline health and social care workers who provide care to vulnerable people a high priority for vaccination. Protecting them protects the health and social care service and recognises the risks that they face in this service.
Further details regarding unpaid volunteer and family carers as well as children's care homes, foster carers or kinship carers 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%2011393%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318708","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318708"}},{"id":"318707","reference":"AQW 11392/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-02","answerBy":"2020-12-17","answered":"2020-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department will instruct and fund the Education Authority transport department to deliver nutritional meals to pupils self-isolating due to COVID-19 who are in receipt of free school meals.","answerText":"Since 1 September the Department has made a number of Temporary Modification to Education Duties Notices under the Coronavirus Act 2020 to require the Education Authority and individual voluntary grammar and grant-maintained schools to provide food to specified pupils entitled to Free School Meals (FSM) who are unable to attend school for a period of 10 days or more due to Covid-19 and wish such provision.\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/notice-coronavirus-act-2020-temporary-modification-education-duties-no-16-notice-northern-ireland\n\nThe EA school meals service makes food provision, by way of a food parcel to the value of a FSM for the required number of days for collection or delivery, in respect of pupils specified in the Notice in controlled, maintained and special schools at the school’s request. The food parcels can be collected by the parent, delivered to the pupil’s home by the school as part of pastoral care or delivered by taxi arranged by catering staff.\n\nIndividual Voluntary Grammar and Grant-Maintained Integrated schools are responsible for making food provision in respect of pupils specified in the Notice in their school.","answerHtml":"Since 1 September the Department has made a number of Temporary Modification to Education Duties Notices under the Coronavirus Act 2020 to require the Education Authority and individual voluntary grammar and grant-maintained schools to provide food to specified pupils entitled to Free School Meals (FSM) who are unable to attend school for a period of 10 days or more due to Covid-19 and wish such provision.
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/notice-coronavirus-act-2020-temporary-modification-education-duties-no-16-notice-northern-ireland
The EA school meals service makes food provision, by way of a food parcel to the value of a FSM for the required number of days for collection or delivery, in respect of pupils specified in the Notice in controlled, maintained and special schools at the school’s request. The food parcels can be collected by the parent, delivered to the pupil’s home by the school as part of pastoral care or delivered by taxi arranged by catering staff.
Individual Voluntary Grammar and Grant-Maintained Integrated schools are responsible for making food provision in respect of pupils specified in the Notice in their school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011392%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318707","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318707"}},{"id":"318706","reference":"AQW 11391/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-02","answerBy":"2020-12-17","answered":"2020-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education why preschool and primary school have 22 days to apply for a post primary place, but post-primary only have 15 days with the process opening 5 days before the AQE/GL results, giving only 10 application days for children applying for a place.","answerText":"Pre-school and primary school online applications open at noon on 7 January 2021 and close at noon on 29 January 2021. Post-primary online applications open at noon on 1 March 2021 and close at 4pm on 16 March 2021.\n\nApplications are not considered on a ‘first come first served’ basis and provided applications are submitted by the deadline, they will be considered as punctual.\n\nWith applications for post-primary opening in March, parents will have longer to consider their preferred options; to consult the information available on the transfer procedure from schools, the Education Authority and my Department; and to discuss preferences with their children, prior to the nomination of schools. The move to online applications will provide a similar window for parents of children applying to post-primary school to consider options after the issue of entrance test results as was the case with hard-copy applications.","answerHtml":"Pre-school and primary school online applications open at noon on 7 January 2021 and close at noon on 29 January 2021. Post-primary online applications open at noon on 1 March 2021 and close at 4pm on 16 March 2021.
Applications are not considered on a ‘first come first served’ basis and provided applications are submitted by the deadline, they will be considered as punctual.
With applications for post-primary opening in March, parents will have longer to consider their preferred options; to consult the information available on the transfer procedure from schools, the Education Authority and my Department; and to discuss preferences with their children, prior to the nomination of schools. The move to online applications will provide a similar window for parents of children applying to post-primary school to consider options after the issue of entrance test results as was the case with hard-copy applications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011391%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318706","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318706"}},{"id":"318705","reference":"AQW 11390/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-02","answerBy":"2020-12-17","answered":"2020-12-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of Boards of Governors MLAs may sit on; and (ii) the number of schools that currently have MLAs on their Board of Governors.","answerText":"Article 12 of the Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 (as amended) provides that, except with the approval of the Department of Education, no person shall at the same time hold office as a member of more than three Boards of Governors of grant‐aided schools.\n\nDepending on the school sector, a Board of Governors can comprise members elected by parents and teachers; foundation governors or members nominated by transferors or trustees; and members appointed or nominated by the Department and the Education Authority.\n\nMy Department holds details only in respect of governors that it appoints or nominates and is therefore unable to detail the number of schools that currently have MLAs on their Board of Governors.","answerHtml":"Article 12 of the Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 (as amended) provides that, except with the approval of the Department of Education, no person shall at the same time hold office as a member of more than three Boards of Governors of grant‐aided schools.
Depending on the school sector, a Board of Governors can comprise members elected by parents and teachers; foundation governors or members nominated by transferors or trustees; and members appointed or nominated by the Department and the Education Authority.
My Department holds details only in respect of governors that it appoints or nominates and is therefore unable to detail the number of schools that currently have MLAs on their Board of Governors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011390%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318705","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318705"}},{"id":"318231","reference":"AQW 11196/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-30","answerBy":"2020-12-15","answered":"2021-04-01","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 (i) when the legislation will be brought forward, as outlined in part 27 of New Decade, New Approach, for the Irish Language and Ulster Scots/Ulster British Commissioners; and (ii) whether this legislation will not be introduced under accelerated passage.","answerText":"Our officials continue with preparatory work, to legislate for the core elements of the Rights, Language and Identity proposals contained in ‘New Decade, New Approach’.\n\nThis includes arrangements to progress the Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Amendment No. 2) Bill which provides for the establishment of an Irish Language Commissioner, and to progress the Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Amendment No.3) Bill which provides for a Commissioner to enhance and develop the language, arts and literature associated with the Ulster Scots and Ulster British tradition here.\n\nWe will progress the legislation during the current mandate and the appointment of the Commissioners as quickly as possible thereafter.\n\nThe legislative process is yet to be agreed by the Executive; we will update the Assembly in due course.","answerHtml":"Our officials continue with preparatory work, to legislate for the core elements of the Rights, Language and Identity proposals contained in ‘New Decade, New Approach’.
This includes arrangements to progress the Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Amendment No. 2) Bill which provides for the establishment of an Irish Language Commissioner, and to progress the Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Amendment No.3) Bill which provides for a Commissioner to enhance and develop the language, arts and literature associated with the Ulster Scots and Ulster British tradition here.
We will progress the legislation during the current mandate and the appointment of the Commissioners as quickly as possible thereafter.
The legislative process is yet to be agreed by the Executive; we will update the Assembly in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011196%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318231","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318231"}},{"id":"318230","reference":"AQW 11195/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-30","answerBy":"2020-12-15","answered":"2021-01-07","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 (i) what actions they are taking to ensure the rights of citizens who designate as Both and politically as Other are being protected in legislation as outlined in part 25 of New Decade, New Approach; and (ii) whether they will update the definition of cross-community to include Others on an equal legal footing as Nationalists and Unionists.","answerText":"The principles set out in paragraph 25 of New Decade, New Approach are provided for in the Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Amendment No.1) Bill. Our officials continue with preparatory work to bring forward this Bill together with the two other Bills appended to New Decade, New Approach. We will progress the legislation during 2020/2021, and establish the Office of Identity and Culture Expression as quickly as possible thereafter.\n\nThe statutory definition of cross-community in the Northern Ireland Act 1998 is an excepted matter, and outside the legislative competence of the Assembly. Legislation to amend the definition would be a matter for the Secretary of State following consultation with the political parties.","answerHtml":"The principles set out in paragraph 25 of New Decade, New Approach are provided for in the Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Amendment No.1) Bill. Our officials continue with preparatory work to bring forward this Bill together with the two other Bills appended to New Decade, New Approach. We will progress the legislation during 2020/2021, and establish the Office of Identity and Culture Expression as quickly as possible thereafter.
The statutory definition of cross-community in the Northern Ireland Act 1998 is an excepted matter, and outside the legislative competence of the Assembly. Legislation to amend the definition would be a matter for the Secretary of State following consultation with the political parties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011195%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318230","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318230"}},{"id":"318229","reference":"AQW 11194/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-30","answerBy":"2020-12-15","answered":"2021-02-04","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, in relation to the Commissioners for Ministerial Standards as set down in New Decade, New Approach, Annex A, 1.6, for an update on the (i) recruitment process; (ii) recruitment criteria; and (iii) date when recruitment will commence for the three Commissioners.","answerText":"The Executive has determined that this will be known as the Panel for Ministerial Standards. Discussions are taking place with the Assembly Commissioner of Standards concerning her proposed role. Preparations, including the draft recruitment criteria are at an advanced stage, for the initiation of a public appointments competition to recruit other members.","answerHtml":"The Executive has determined that this will be known as the Panel for Ministerial Standards. Discussions are taking place with the Assembly Commissioner of Standards concerning her proposed role. Preparations, including the draft recruitment criteria are at an advanced stage, for the initiation of a public appointments competition to recruit other members.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011194%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318229","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318229"}},{"id":"318228","reference":"AQW 11193/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-30","answerBy":"2020-12-15","answered":"2021-02-05","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 (i) for an update on the reform of the Compact Civic Advisory Panel; (ii) when the public appointments criteria will be published; and (iii) when the recruitment process will be advertised as per New Decade, New Approach: Annex C, paragraph 3.8.","answerText":"We remain committed to the re-establishment of the Compact Civic Advisory Panel and the convening of at least one Citizen’s Assembly each year. Preparatory work has begun but Covid-19 has unavoidably impacted both on this work due to the necessary diversion of staffing resources and also on the panel’s potential ability to function most effectively due to the current social constraints in which we are operating.","answerHtml":"We remain committed to the re-establishment of the Compact Civic Advisory Panel and the convening of at least one Citizen’s Assembly each year. Preparatory work has begun but Covid-19 has unavoidably impacted both on this work due to the necessary diversion of staffing resources and also on the panel’s potential ability to function most effectively due to the current social constraints in which we are operating.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011193%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318228","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318228"}},{"id":"318227","reference":"AQW 11192/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-30","answerBy":"2020-12-15","answered":"2021-04-29","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 when the Assembly committee to monitor the Programme for Government will be involved in the development of a Programme for Government for (i) the rest of this mandate; and (ii) for the next mandate.","answerText":"The creation of an Assembly Committee to monitor the Programme for Government (PfG) is a matter for the Assembly.\n\nGood progress has been achieved towards the development of a new PfG. A draft Outcomes Framework was consulted on recently and responses are currently being analysed to inform design and content of the final version. This will give strategic direction to a more complete PfG incorporating an agreed budget and linked to policies and programmes which will be brought forward for Assembly consideration in due course.","answerHtml":"The creation of an Assembly Committee to monitor the Programme for Government (PfG) is a matter for the Assembly.
Good progress has been achieved towards the development of a new PfG. A draft Outcomes Framework was consulted on recently and responses are currently being analysed to inform design and content of the final version. This will give strategic direction to a more complete PfG incorporating an agreed budget and linked to policies and programmes which will be brought forward for Assembly consideration in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011192%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318227","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318227"}},{"id":"322724","reference":"AQO 1327/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-26","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2020-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission when the Financial Assistance for Political Parties Scheme and Whips' Office allocation will be reviewed.","answerText":"Financial assistance is available for an authorised purpose as set out in the Financial Assistance for Political Parties Act (Northern Ireland) 2000. That authorised purpose is defined as “assisting members of the Assembly who are connected with such parties to perform their Assembly duties”. That is the sole purpose set out in the Act.\n\nFinancial assistance is provided under the terms of the Financial Assistance for Political Parties Scheme 2016 (referred to as the FAPP Scheme).\n\nWhile the FAPP Scheme does not contain a formal review mechanism, the Commission had already agreed to review the scope of the Scheme (within the parameters set by the enabling legislation) and to also review the level of payments. In addition, paragraph 3.7 of ‘New Decade, New Approach’ makes reference to funding for an opposition and to the Statement of Entitlements for an Official Opposition.\n\nIn light of this recommendation in NDNA, the Commission has agreed to work jointly with the Assembly and Executive Review Committee (AERC) to facilitate implementation of the NDNA recommendation.\n\nThe AERC will consult with the Commission on any financial implications and with the Committee on Procedures on any procedural implications arising from the review recommendations and, in accordance with the Assembly resolution of 13 October 2020, the AERC will report to the Assembly on the outcome of the review.\n\nWhile recognising the remit and role of the AERC and without prejudice to the outcome of AERC’s deliberations, the Commission has also agreed to consider a review of the funding available under the current Scheme.","answerHtml":"Financial assistance is available for an authorised purpose as set out in the Financial Assistance for Political Parties Act (Northern Ireland) 2000. That authorised purpose is defined as “assisting members of the Assembly who are connected with such parties to perform their Assembly duties”. That is the sole purpose set out in the Act.
Financial assistance is provided under the terms of the Financial Assistance for Political Parties Scheme 2016 (referred to as the FAPP Scheme).
While the FAPP Scheme does not contain a formal review mechanism, the Commission had already agreed to review the scope of the Scheme (within the parameters set by the enabling legislation) and to also review the level of payments. In addition, paragraph 3.7 of ‘New Decade, New Approach’ makes reference to funding for an opposition and to the Statement of Entitlements for an Official Opposition.
In light of this recommendation in NDNA, the Commission has agreed to work jointly with the Assembly and Executive Review Committee (AERC) to facilitate implementation of the NDNA recommendation.
The AERC will consult with the Commission on any financial implications and with the Committee on Procedures on any procedural implications arising from the review recommendations and, in accordance with the Assembly resolution of 13 October 2020, the AERC will report to the Assembly on the outcome of the review.
While recognising the remit and role of the AERC and without prejudice to the outcome of AERC’s deliberations, the Commission has also agreed to consider a review of the funding available under the current Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201327%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=322724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=322724"}},{"id":"320266","reference":"AQO 1298/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-26","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2020-12-09","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 she will commission a report to assess the potential contribution of offshore and marine technologies to the future of renewable electricity generation in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Work is already ongoing to assess the potential contribution of offshore and marine technologies. My Department is currently working with The Crown Estate, through its Key Resource Areas initiative, to identify the potential for fixed and floating offshore wind development in NI waters. The first report under this initiative, looking at technical aspects, was published at the end of November. The initial results are promising but this is only the first step in a process that will also have to take account of the economic and environmental characteristics of the identified areas. In relation to marine technologies, we are already aware of the potential through the two tidal projects at Fair Head and Torr Head which were granted rights to develop in 2012. How best to accelerate these projects and encourage more developments of this nature will be considered as we develop a new Energy Strategy.","answerHtml":"Work is already ongoing to assess the potential contribution of offshore and marine technologies. My Department is currently working with The Crown Estate, through its Key Resource Areas initiative, to identify the potential for fixed and floating offshore wind development in NI waters. The first report under this initiative, looking at technical aspects, was published at the end of November. The initial results are promising but this is only the first step in a process that will also have to take account of the economic and environmental characteristics of the identified areas. In relation to marine technologies, we are already aware of the potential through the two tidal projects at Fair Head and Torr Head which were granted rights to develop in 2012. How best to accelerate these projects and encourage more developments of this nature will be considered as we develop a new Energy Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201298%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320266","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320266"}},{"id":"317226","reference":"AQW 10847/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-24","answerBy":"2020-12-09","answered":"2021-03-24","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, pursuant to AQW 9773/17-22, to detail how the societal impacts have been measured as to how successful they have been at building a United Community.","answerText":"The impact of the work carried out through the T:BUC Strategy is captured at a population level through the annual Good Relations Indicator Report.\n\nThe indicators were developed alongside the T:BUC Strategy to monitor progress towards the four strategic priorities outlined in the Strategy and data is mostly collected through the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey. It is important to note that many factors impact the indicators at a population level and any change in the statistics cannot directly be attributed to a specific intervention.\n\nEach specific intervention is of course also subject to ongoing monitoring against the agreed outputs and outcomes, and are subject to evaluation.\n\nThe latest report can be found at: Good Relations Indicators annual update 2019 | The Executive Office (executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"The impact of the work carried out through the T:BUC Strategy is captured at a population level through the annual Good Relations Indicator Report.
The indicators were developed alongside the T:BUC Strategy to monitor progress towards the four strategic priorities outlined in the Strategy and data is mostly collected through the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey. It is important to note that many factors impact the indicators at a population level and any change in the statistics cannot directly be attributed to a specific intervention.
Each specific intervention is of course also subject to ongoing monitoring against the agreed outputs and outcomes, and are subject to evaluation.
The latest report can be found at: Good Relations Indicators annual update 2019 | The Executive Office (executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010847%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317226","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317226"}},{"id":"317225","reference":"AQW 10846/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-24","answerBy":"2020-12-09","answered":"2020-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance when building regulations will be reviewed, updated, and published to ensure all new builds will meet zero carbon targets.","answerText":"My Department is monitoring proposals currently under consideration in England and Wales for uplifts toward a new ‘Future Homes’ standard. This is expected to apply carbon performance improvements of some 75-80% to new buildings from 2025, or possibly sooner. Similar proposals for buildings other than dwellings are anticipated in the coming months. These processes would be expected to provide updated software, policy assessments and support necessary to progress such measures here and we will move on their outcome to assess the implications locally, once the position becomes clearer.\n\nIn the meantime, my officials are also exploring detailed options with the Department’s Building Regulations Advisory Committee (NIBRAC) and other departments to independently improve local energy efficiency standards for new buildings as quickly as possible.","answerHtml":"My Department is monitoring proposals currently under consideration in England and Wales for uplifts toward a new ‘Future Homes’ standard. This is expected to apply carbon performance improvements of some 75-80% to new buildings from 2025, or possibly sooner. Similar proposals for buildings other than dwellings are anticipated in the coming months. These processes would be expected to provide updated software, policy assessments and support necessary to progress such measures here and we will move on their outcome to assess the implications locally, once the position becomes clearer.
In the meantime, my officials are also exploring detailed options with the Department’s Building Regulations Advisory Committee (NIBRAC) and other departments to independently improve local energy efficiency standards for new buildings as quickly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010846%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317225"}},{"id":"317224","reference":"AQW 10845/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-24","answerBy":"2020-12-09","answered":"2020-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) what measures she is taking to consider future hydrogen fuel provision; and (ii) in order to create a sustainable waste water treatment system for Northern Ireland, what consideration she has made for NI Water to play a fundamental role in hydrogen production.","answerText":"My Department has sought to ensure that hydrogen technologies are at the forefront of the introduction of alternative fuels. Over the last few years, the Department has been represented on the Steering Committee of the GenComm project led by Belfast Met. This group has provided the platform for the successful bid to the Office for Low Emission Vehicles Hydrogen Transport Programme which provided £1.9m funding for the introduction of refuelling infrastructure and 3 Hydrogen Buses for the Translink fleet, matched by funding from Energia and DfI. Building on this NIH2 project, I have committed a further £50m to deliver 100 zero emission Translink buses, twenty of which could be powered by Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology.\n\nNI Water is currently undertaking a pilot project to assess the advantages of using elevated levels of oxygen in a simulation of the treatment of wastewater at its Kinnegar works. The project will assess if additional wastewater processing capacity can be obtained, whilst also using less electricity. A small electrolyser is currently being commissioned as part of this project, which will split water in to oxygen and hydrogen. The results of the pilot will help to inform the commissioning of a 1 MW electrolyser, and associated storage and refuelling equipment, to be based at a major wastewater treatment works in the Belfast area. The overall purpose of this project will be to demonstrate any potential benefits from the use of oxygen at scale to enable plant efficiency and in relation to the use of green hydrogen in decarbonising transport. Initially, the focus will be on NI Water's vehicle fleet, but the company will also seek to identify partner organisations to demonstrate the adoption of hydrogen in everyday vehicle use.\n\nI am currently considering how we could build on work to date to provide further electrolyser and refuelling capacity to support the introduction of other zero emission heavy vehicles which may not be suited to using battery technology. The hydrogen future could also bring solutions for ferry operations and rail services, where electrification by overhead power lines is not economically viable.","answerHtml":"My Department has sought to ensure that hydrogen technologies are at the forefront of the introduction of alternative fuels. Over the last few years, the Department has been represented on the Steering Committee of the GenComm project led by Belfast Met. This group has provided the platform for the successful bid to the Office for Low Emission Vehicles Hydrogen Transport Programme which provided £1.9m funding for the introduction of refuelling infrastructure and 3 Hydrogen Buses for the Translink fleet, matched by funding from Energia and DfI. Building on this NIH2 project, I have committed a further £50m to deliver 100 zero emission Translink buses, twenty of which could be powered by Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology.
NI Water is currently undertaking a pilot project to assess the advantages of using elevated levels of oxygen in a simulation of the treatment of wastewater at its Kinnegar works. The project will assess if additional wastewater processing capacity can be obtained, whilst also using less electricity. A small electrolyser is currently being commissioned as part of this project, which will split water in to oxygen and hydrogen. The results of the pilot will help to inform the commissioning of a 1 MW electrolyser, and associated storage and refuelling equipment, to be based at a major wastewater treatment works in the Belfast area. The overall purpose of this project will be to demonstrate any potential benefits from the use of oxygen at scale to enable plant efficiency and in relation to the use of green hydrogen in decarbonising transport. Initially, the focus will be on NI Water's vehicle fleet, but the company will also seek to identify partner organisations to demonstrate the adoption of hydrogen in everyday vehicle use.
I am currently considering how we could build on work to date to provide further electrolyser and refuelling capacity to support the introduction of other zero emission heavy vehicles which may not be suited to using battery technology. The hydrogen future could also bring solutions for ferry operations and rail services, where electrification by overhead power lines is not economically viable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010845%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317224","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317224"}},{"id":"317223","reference":"AQW 10844/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-24","answerBy":"2020-12-09","answered":"2020-12-01","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) how many undergraduate and post-graduate teaching degrees her Department will be making available in Northern Ireland for students to enter in 2021/22; (ii) for a breakdown of how her Department has come to decide on that number; and (iii) for a breakdown of where those degrees will be delivered.","answerText":"While the Department for the Economy has responsibility for the administration and funding of Initial Teacher Education (ITE) in Northern Ireland, it is the Department of Education that has responsibility for the determination of student intake allocations to the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) each year.\n\nMy Department is not yet in a position to provide details for the 2021/22 academic year. Work is ongoing to gather the necessary information needed to make a decision on next year’s intake numbers and consideration will be given to this in due course, with a view to notifying the HEIs of the outcome in early 2021. The decision making process will be based on a number of relevant factors, including the predicted future need for teachers across the NI education system.\n\nOnce the final figures have been decided and the HEIs informed, the details will be published on the Department’s website here.","answerHtml":"While the Department for the Economy has responsibility for the administration and funding of Initial Teacher Education (ITE) in Northern Ireland, it is the Department of Education that has responsibility for the determination of student intake allocations to the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) each year.
My Department is not yet in a position to provide details for the 2021/22 academic year. Work is ongoing to gather the necessary information needed to make a decision on next year’s intake numbers and consideration will be given to this in due course, with a view to notifying the HEIs of the outcome in early 2021. The decision making process will be based on a number of relevant factors, including the predicted future need for teachers across the NI education system.
Once the final figures have been decided and the HEIs informed, the details will be published on the Department’s website here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010844%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317223"}},{"id":"317222","reference":"AQW 10843/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-24","answerBy":"2020-12-09","answered":"2020-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the Jobstart scheme that had been due to open in November 2020.","answerText":"The JobStart Scheme will help young people (16 – 24 year olds) at risk of long term unemployment get into the job market by providing government funding for employers to create six-month job opportunities with nine-month opportunities available for those young people who would benefit from having a longer period of time to settle into the job opportunity, and to allow adequate time for reasonable adjustments to be addressed.\n\nThe eligibility criteria for the JobStart Scheme includes any young person aged 16-24 on a working age benefit who is work ready, as well as those leaving care, those with disabilities and returning citizens who are ready for work.","answerHtml":"The JobStart Scheme will help young people (16 – 24 year olds) at risk of long term unemployment get into the job market by providing government funding for employers to create six-month job opportunities with nine-month opportunities available for those young people who would benefit from having a longer period of time to settle into the job opportunity, and to allow adequate time for reasonable adjustments to be addressed.
The eligibility criteria for the JobStart Scheme includes any young person aged 16-24 on a working age benefit who is work ready, as well as those leaving care, those with disabilities and returning citizens who are ready for work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010843%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317222","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317222"}},{"id":"317085","reference":"AQW 10747/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-23","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2020-12-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, in relation to the High Street Voucher Scheme, to detail (i) the criteria that will be used to allocate high street vouchers; and (iI) whether the expenditure will be time limited to ensure any underspend is able to be reallocated as soon as possible.","answerText":"The delivery of a Northern Ireland wide High Street Stimulus Scheme will inject £95m into our local economy. The multiplier effect of this innovative scheme – from people spending more than the value of the card and the ripple effects from purchases – will deliver even greater economic benefits and make a significant step to kick-starting our recovery.\n\nThe scheme will provide individuals with a prepaid card to be spent at ‘bricks and mortar’ businesses including retail, restaurants and hotels before the end of March 2021. It will not be available for online sales.\n\nThe Department for the Economy has been provided with a financial allocation and has a clear policy objective for this funding, it is now assessing how this funding can best deliver the policy intent, including the card value and how it will be delivered.\n\nIn developing the Northern Ireland High Street Stimulus scheme, the Department will implement learnings from Jersey, Malta and other jurisdictions that have rolled out similar initiatives.\n\nIt is anticipated that the scheme will to ‘go live’ in early 2021 and will be subject to public health guidance.","answerHtml":"The delivery of a Northern Ireland wide High Street Stimulus Scheme will inject £95m into our local economy. The multiplier effect of this innovative scheme – from people spending more than the value of the card and the ripple effects from purchases – will deliver even greater economic benefits and make a significant step to kick-starting our recovery.
The scheme will provide individuals with a prepaid card to be spent at ‘bricks and mortar’ businesses including retail, restaurants and hotels before the end of March 2021. It will not be available for online sales.
The Department for the Economy has been provided with a financial allocation and has a clear policy objective for this funding, it is now assessing how this funding can best deliver the policy intent, including the card value and how it will be delivered.
In developing the Northern Ireland High Street Stimulus scheme, the Department will implement learnings from Jersey, Malta and other jurisdictions that have rolled out similar initiatives.
It is anticipated that the scheme will to ‘go live’ in early 2021 and will be subject to public health guidance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010747%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317085","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317085"}},{"id":"317084","reference":"AQW 10746/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-23","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2020-12-05","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 High Street Voucher Scheme will be created in a way to retain the investment in locally-owned businesses rather than multinational chains whose headquarters are based outside Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The delivery of a Northern Ireland wide High Street Stimulus Scheme will inject £95m into our local economy. The multiplier effect of this innovative scheme – from people spending more than the value of the card and the ripple effects from purchases – will deliver even greater economic benefits and make a significant step to kick-starting our recovery.\n\nThe scheme will provide individuals with a prepaid card to be spent at ‘bricks and mortar’ businesses including retail, restaurants and hotels before the end of March 2021. It will not be available for online sales.\n\nThe Department for the Economy has been provided with a financial allocation and has a clear policy objective for this funding, it is now assessing how this funding can best deliver the policy intent, including the card value and how it will be delivered.\n\nIn developing the Northern Ireland High Street Stimulus scheme, the Department will implement learnings from Jersey, Malta and other jurisdictions that have rolled out similar initiatives.\n\nIt is anticipated that the scheme will to ‘go live’ in early 2021 and will be subject to public health guidance.","answerHtml":"The delivery of a Northern Ireland wide High Street Stimulus Scheme will inject £95m into our local economy. The multiplier effect of this innovative scheme – from people spending more than the value of the card and the ripple effects from purchases – will deliver even greater economic benefits and make a significant step to kick-starting our recovery.
The scheme will provide individuals with a prepaid card to be spent at ‘bricks and mortar’ businesses including retail, restaurants and hotels before the end of March 2021. It will not be available for online sales.
The Department for the Economy has been provided with a financial allocation and has a clear policy objective for this funding, it is now assessing how this funding can best deliver the policy intent, including the card value and how it will be delivered.
In developing the Northern Ireland High Street Stimulus scheme, the Department will implement learnings from Jersey, Malta and other jurisdictions that have rolled out similar initiatives.
It is anticipated that the scheme will to ‘go live’ in early 2021 and will be subject to public health guidance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010746%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317084","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317084"}},{"id":"317083","reference":"AQW 10745/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-23","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2020-12-05","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 High Street Voucher Scheme will be able to be spent in all high streets across Northern Ireland, including rural towns and villages.","answerText":"The delivery of a Northern Ireland wide High Street Stimulus Scheme will inject £95m into our local economy. The multiplier effect of this innovative scheme – from people spending more than the value of the card and the ripple effects from purchases – will deliver even greater economic benefits and make a significant step to kick-starting our recovery.\n\nThe scheme will provide individuals with a prepaid card to be spent at ‘bricks and mortar’ businesses including retail, restaurants and hotels before the end of March 2021. It will not be available for online sales.\n\nThe Department for the Economy has been provided with a financial allocation and has a clear policy objective for this funding, it is now assessing how this funding can best deliver the policy intent, including the card value and how it will be delivered.\n\nIn developing the Northern Ireland High Street Stimulus scheme, the Department will implement learnings from Jersey, Malta and other jurisdictions that have rolled out similar initiatives.\n\nIt is anticipated that the scheme will to ‘go live’ in early 2021 and will be subject to public health guidance.","answerHtml":"The delivery of a Northern Ireland wide High Street Stimulus Scheme will inject £95m into our local economy. The multiplier effect of this innovative scheme – from people spending more than the value of the card and the ripple effects from purchases – will deliver even greater economic benefits and make a significant step to kick-starting our recovery.
The scheme will provide individuals with a prepaid card to be spent at ‘bricks and mortar’ businesses including retail, restaurants and hotels before the end of March 2021. It will not be available for online sales.
The Department for the Economy has been provided with a financial allocation and has a clear policy objective for this funding, it is now assessing how this funding can best deliver the policy intent, including the card value and how it will be delivered.
In developing the Northern Ireland High Street Stimulus scheme, the Department will implement learnings from Jersey, Malta and other jurisdictions that have rolled out similar initiatives.
It is anticipated that the scheme will to ‘go live’ in early 2021 and will be subject to public health guidance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010745%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317083","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317083"}},{"id":"317082","reference":"AQW 10744/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-23","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2020-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will make a bid for additional financial award for carers who have had no uplift in carers allowance throughout the pandemic.","answerText":"As you may be aware, the rate of Carer’s Allowance was increased to £67.25 a week from April 2020 as part of the annual benefits up-rating exercise.\n\nA number of temporary easements were introduced from April 2020:\n\nunpaid carers are able to continue to claim Carer’s Allowance if they have a temporary break in caring, because either they or the person they care for becomes infected with coronavirus or has to self-isolate because of it; and\n\nproviding “emotional support” to a severely disabled person is also counted towards the Carer’s Allowance threshold of 35 hours of care a week.\n\nWith the continuing impact of the coronavirus pandemic, these temporary easements in Carer’s Allowance have been extended until 12 May 2021.\n\nIn terms of providing longer term additional financial support for carers here, it is anticipated that this will be considered as part of the upcoming welfare mitigations review and, until the review is finalised, my Department will continue to examine how we can best support carers throughout this COVID-19 pandemic.","answerHtml":"As you may be aware, the rate of Carer’s Allowance was increased to £67.25 a week from April 2020 as part of the annual benefits up-rating exercise.
A number of temporary easements were introduced from April 2020:
unpaid carers are able to continue to claim Carer’s Allowance if they have a temporary break in caring, because either they or the person they care for becomes infected with coronavirus or has to self-isolate because of it; and
providing “emotional support” to a severely disabled person is also counted towards the Carer’s Allowance threshold of 35 hours of care a week.
With the continuing impact of the coronavirus pandemic, these temporary easements in Carer’s Allowance have been extended until 12 May 2021.
In terms of providing longer term additional financial support for carers here, it is anticipated that this will be considered as part of the upcoming welfare mitigations review and, until the review is finalised, my Department will continue to examine how we can best support carers throughout this COVID-19 pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010744%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317082","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317082"}},{"id":"317081","reference":"AQW 10743/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-23","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2020-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the one-off heating payment announced is on top of, or in place of, the annual heating payment; and whether the payment will be dependent on weather conditions or will be made automatically.","answerText":"The Covid-19 Heating Payment is a one-off payment to provide financial support to people in receipt of Pension Credit as well as those receiving the highest rates of Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment and Disability Living Allowance, including children.\n\nThis payment is in addition to any other payments, including the annual Winter Fuel Payment.\n\nThere is no application process; the payment will be made automatically via existing payment channels and is not dependent on weather conditions.","answerHtml":"The Covid-19 Heating Payment is a one-off payment to provide financial support to people in receipt of Pension Credit as well as those receiving the highest rates of Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment and Disability Living Allowance, including children.
This payment is in addition to any other payments, including the annual Winter Fuel Payment.
There is no application process; the payment will be made automatically via existing payment channels and is not dependent on weather conditions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010743%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317081","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317081"}},{"id":"316948","reference":"AQW 10682/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-20","answerBy":"2020-11-30","answered":"2020-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 9997/17-22, to detail (i) where the recruitment for the independent panel is published and being promoted; (ii) how many people will be on the panel; and (iii) whether all members will be independent of government and government departments.","answerText":"The appointment process for the independent has not yet commenced and will not do so until the Terms of Reference is agreed by the Executive. When the appointment process begins publicity will be designed to ensure a wide range and diverse audience is made aware of the opportunity and encouraged to apply.\n\nIt is my expectation that the Panel will include a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson and three Members, so five in total. However, this is to be confirmed.\n\nIt is not appropriate to pre-judge the selection process. Work is underway to develop a suitable approach to appoint the panel.","answerHtml":"The appointment process for the independent has not yet commenced and will not do so until the Terms of Reference is agreed by the Executive. When the appointment process begins publicity will be designed to ensure a wide range and diverse audience is made aware of the opportunity and encouraged to apply.
It is my expectation that the Panel will include a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson and three Members, so five in total. However, this is to be confirmed.
It is not appropriate to pre-judge the selection process. Work is underway to develop a suitable approach to appoint the panel.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010682%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316948","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316948"}},{"id":"316658","reference":"AQW 10593/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-19","answerBy":"2020-12-04","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following her statement to the Assembly on 17 November 202, regarding the Discretionary Support Self-Isolation Grant, whether she is considering options for Universal Basic Income level to be brought into Northern Ireland.","answerText":"In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, there have been a number of measures introduced to build on and strengthen the social security system to protect the health, welfare and wellbeing of all of the people here and to take timely decisions in our efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19.\n\nDue to the challenging circumstances that we are all operating in at present, there has been a need to be responsive to a fast moving and ever-changing situation.","answerHtml":"In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, there have been a number of measures introduced to build on and strengthen the social security system to protect the health, welfare and wellbeing of all of the people here and to take timely decisions in our efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19.
Due to the challenging circumstances that we are all operating in at present, there has been a need to be responsive to a fast moving and ever-changing situation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010593%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316658","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316658"}},{"id":"316657","reference":"AQW 10592/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-19","answerBy":"2020-12-04","answered":"2020-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of people refused the Discretionary Support Self Isolation Grant between 25 March 2020 and 31 October 2020; and (ii) a breakdown of the reasons why people were refused.","answerText":"Applications are made to the Discretionary Support Scheme for help in response to immediate financial need with those needs then assessed and awards made accordingly – including needs associated with self-isolation due to Covid – 19.\n\nSince the introduction of the self-isolation grant on 25 March 2020 my Department has processed 19,313 applications where self-isolation was found to be the underlying cause of the financial need, of which 15,570 Discretionary Support Self-Isolation awards were made totalling £2.1m.\n\nReasons why applications may not be successful will vary according to individual circumstances set against the eligibility criteria for the scheme.\n\nThere will also be duplicate applications and those that failed because contact with the applicant was not established.","answerHtml":"Applications are made to the Discretionary Support Scheme for help in response to immediate financial need with those needs then assessed and awards made accordingly – including needs associated with self-isolation due to Covid – 19.
Since the introduction of the self-isolation grant on 25 March 2020 my Department has processed 19,313 applications where self-isolation was found to be the underlying cause of the financial need, of which 15,570 Discretionary Support Self-Isolation awards were made totalling £2.1m.
Reasons why applications may not be successful will vary according to individual circumstances set against the eligibility criteria for the scheme.
There will also be duplicate applications and those that failed because contact with the applicant was not established.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010592%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316657"}},{"id":"316656","reference":"AQW 10591/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-19","answerBy":"2020-12-04","answered":"2020-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether (i) Domiciliary Care workers; (ii) people in receipt of carers allowance; (iii) foster and kinship carers; (iv) people in receipt of Personal Independence Payment or Disability Living Allowance; and (v) all people who provide childcare, including child minders, will be considered part of priority groupings when a vaccination programme is rolled out.","answerText":"I refer the member to AQW 10272/17-22, answered on 26 November 2020.","answerHtml":"I refer the member to AQW 10272/17-22, answered on 26 November 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010591%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316656"}},{"id":"316655","reference":"AQW 10590/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-19","answerBy":"2020-12-04","answered":"2020-11-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) to detail the number of (a) hours; (b) days; and (c) crossing sailings both ferries serving the Strangford ferry crossing have been out of operation at the same time, from 1 April 2020 to 31 October 2020; and (ii) to provide a copy of the service charter confirming the operating targets for provision of ferry services in Strangford Lough for 2020/21.","answerText":"During the period from 1 April 2020 to 31 October 2020, both ferries serving the Strangford Lough Ferry Service crossing were out of operation at the same time for a total of:\n\n59.5 hours out of a total of 2418 planned hours (primarily due to crew unavailability related to COVID-19):\n\n3.8 days out of a total of 214 planned days (In total 8 days, consisting of 1 full day and a number of partial days, were disrupted due to crew unavailability related to COVID-19): and\n\n246 times out of a total of 9556 planned sailings (primarily due to crew unavailability related to COVID-19).\n\nThe operating targets set out in the Passenger Charter are to provide a safe, reliable, clean and effective service, which meets the following standards:\n\nvehicle ferry available for 97 per cent of planned crossings;\n\nshelters, cabins and decks are to be kept clean and tidy;\n\ncomplaints thoroughly and quickly addressed; and\n\nloading and disembarkation supervised by crew for maximum customer safety.\n\nDuring the period between 1 April 2020 and 31 October 2020, the ferry has been available for 97.4% of planned sailings.","answerHtml":"During the period from 1 April 2020 to 31 October 2020, both ferries serving the Strangford Lough Ferry Service crossing were out of operation at the same time for a total of:
59.5 hours out of a total of 2418 planned hours (primarily due to crew unavailability related to COVID-19):
3.8 days out of a total of 214 planned days (In total 8 days, consisting of 1 full day and a number of partial days, were disrupted due to crew unavailability related to COVID-19): and
246 times out of a total of 9556 planned sailings (primarily due to crew unavailability related to COVID-19).
The operating targets set out in the Passenger Charter are to provide a safe, reliable, clean and effective service, which meets the following standards:
vehicle ferry available for 97 per cent of planned crossings;
shelters, cabins and decks are to be kept clean and tidy;
complaints thoroughly and quickly addressed; and
loading and disembarkation supervised by crew for maximum customer safety.
During the period between 1 April 2020 and 31 October 2020, the ferry has been available for 97.4% of planned sailings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010590%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316655"}},{"id":"316654","reference":"AQW 10589/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-19","answerBy":"2020-12-04","answered":"2020-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether his Department has considered amending the building regulations to require all new builds to include space for secure off-street storage of bins to help keep public footpaths clear for pedestrians.","answerText":"Regulation 62 (Solid waste storage) of Part J (Solid waste in buildings) of the Building Regulations requires that adequate provision is made for the hygienic storage of waste from a building, as well as access to the place of storage and from the place of storage to the waste collection point.\n\nRegulation 62 applies to new buildings, alterations or extensions and certain cases of material change of use, including where a greater or lesser number of dwellings is created.\n\nThe Department’s Technical Booklet J (Solid waste in buildings) provides guidance by referral to the Local Government Waste Storage Guide for Northern Ireland. This covers requirements for the size, siting and design considerations of waste storage areas and notes that \"The waste collection point should be such that waste can be presented without blocking vehicular or pedestrian access.\"\n\nThe Department is of the view that Part J is adequate.","answerHtml":"Regulation 62 (Solid waste storage) of Part J (Solid waste in buildings) of the Building Regulations requires that adequate provision is made for the hygienic storage of waste from a building, as well as access to the place of storage and from the place of storage to the waste collection point.
Regulation 62 applies to new buildings, alterations or extensions and certain cases of material change of use, including where a greater or lesser number of dwellings is created.
The Department’s Technical Booklet J (Solid waste in buildings) provides guidance by referral to the Local Government Waste Storage Guide for Northern Ireland. This covers requirements for the size, siting and design considerations of waste storage areas and notes that "The waste collection point should be such that waste can be presented without blocking vehicular or pedestrian access."
The Department is of the view that Part J is adequate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010589%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316654"}},{"id":"316744","reference":"AQO 1216/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-19","answerBy":"2020-11-30","answered":"2020-11-30","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to identify the body with responsibility for regulating private baby scan studios operating in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for her question. Private baby-scan studios are not included in the list of regulated establishments and agencies as set out in the Health and Personal Social Services (Quality, Improvement and Regulation) (Northern Ireland) Order 2003. However, if ultrasounds are carried out in those studios by radiographers, the radiographers are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Independent hospitals and clinics may carry out private baby scans, and those establishments are regulated by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) under the 2003 Order and the Independent Health Care Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"I thank the Minister very much. As he is probably aware, the Care Quality Commission had growing concerns about failures to discover serious medical issues during private baby scans in England. While he says that some of those places are not regulated but that radiographers may be, what assurances can he give to families here that serious medical conditions will not be missed?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member; she has made a valid point, and her question gets to the heart of it. There is a risk that those private baby scan studios do not tell women about an abnormality or a serious condition. Pregnant women are offered at least two ultrasounds during pregnancy by health and social care staff through our systems, and that includes an anomaly scan at 18 to 20 weeks. All private scans are in addition to that. When it comes to the specific regulatory framework, RQIA's regulatory activity is determined by the 2003 legislation, which reflects departmental policy at that time. Since then, the health and social care system has changed dramatically in how we access care and in the type of care that is available. That includes the rise of services that are available on the high street and online. Statutory health and social care providers such as trusts, which run our hospitals as well as some primary care services such as GP surgeries and community pharmacies, are not regulated by the RQIA. However, the professional staff who work in those services are regulated, so that carries across with regard to my initial answer."},{"speaker":"Ms Flynn","text":"The Minister will be aware that the paediatric pathology service here collapsed a few years ago and is currently accessible only in Liverpool. Will the Minister explore, with the Health Minister in Dublin, the provision of an accessible paediatric pathology service on the island or an in-reach service into the North?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for the point. She has raised the issue with me previously, and I know that she works on that area continually. We have been exploring a number of options, but the biggest challenge not only across these islands but across parts of the world is the availability of paediatric pathologists. It is an acquired skills set. There is an opening call for recruitment for our Health and Social Care service in Northern Ireland, and we have explored models with the Republic of Ireland, but the model that we operate at the minute involves being able to work with colleagues in the United Kingdom. It is not satisfactory; it does not provide the emotional support that parents often need when they lose a child. We are acutely aware of that in the Department and across the health and social care sector. We are working hard to correct that, but the availability of paediatric pathologists is the biggest challenge to us all."},{"speaker":"Ms Bailey","text":"Is the Minister aware of any instances of women trying to access baby scans at NHS or other premises being blocked from doing so, so they have to go to a private provider? If that is the case, what can be done in such circumstances?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I am not aware of that having happened. If the Member knows of any examples, I would appreciate it if she highlighted them to my office, because the Health and Social Care system — the equivalent of the National Health Service in Northern Ireland — is available for those who need it, free at point of use and point of delivery. That is something that I stand over."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201216%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316744","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-11-30&docID=317938#AQO%201216/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316744"}},{"id":"316244","reference":"AQW 10395/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-17","answerBy":"2020-12-02","answered":"2020-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail all correspondence between her Department and the owner of a hedge that encroaches onto the public footpath on the A20 from Newtownards to Teal Rocks.","answerText":"My Department has had no formal contact with the owner of the hedge adjacent to the footway that runs between Old Shore Road and Teal Rocks. As is normal practice when overgrown hedges obstruct the movement of pedestrians on footways, informal contact was made with the owner of the hedge advising that overgrowth was reducing the footway width. In response to this informal approach, the hedge has been cut back and it has not been necessary for my Department to issue any formal notices to have hedge cutting carried out at this location.","answerHtml":"My Department has had no formal contact with the owner of the hedge adjacent to the footway that runs between Old Shore Road and Teal Rocks. As is normal practice when overgrown hedges obstruct the movement of pedestrians on footways, informal contact was made with the owner of the hedge advising that overgrowth was reducing the footway width. In response to this informal approach, the hedge has been cut back and it has not been necessary for my Department to issue any formal notices to have hedge cutting carried out at this location.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010395%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316244","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316244"}},{"id":"316243","reference":"AQW 10394/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-17","answerBy":"2020-12-02","answered":"2020-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to answer AQW 9998/17-22, (i) whether the Strategic Insight Lab will take input from families and in particular women who are most economically impacted by the provision or lack of provision of childcare; and (ii) how he will ensure that women’s voices will be an integral part of the development of the childcare strategy.","answerText":"The Strategic Insight Lab will include input from a number of key stakeholders, including those who represent women and families.\n\nThe Insight Lab will provide an opportunity to review the assumptions and actions within the Childcare Strategy, including the commitment to an Early Education and Childcare Offer as referenced in ‘New Decade New Approach’, and to help inform the development of a roadmap for the way ahead for the Childcare Strategy.\n\n-","answerHtml":"The Strategic Insight Lab will include input from a number of key stakeholders, including those who represent women and families.
The Insight Lab will provide an opportunity to review the assumptions and actions within the Childcare Strategy, including the commitment to an Early Education and Childcare Offer as referenced in ‘New Decade New Approach’, and to help inform the development of a roadmap for the way ahead for the Childcare Strategy.
-
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010394%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316243","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316243"}},{"id":"316242","reference":"AQW 10393/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-17","answerBy":"2020-12-02","answered":"2020-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to answer AQW 9998/17-22, whether he will be making a bid for a budget for both a childcare strategy and funding to provide childcare support across Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I have put forward funding bids to the Department of Finance for the Childcare Strategy for the next three years.\n\nThe costs associated with the Childcare Strategy and profile of expenditure will be dependent on Executive decisions regarding its scope, scale and the pace of implementation.","answerHtml":"I have put forward funding bids to the Department of Finance for the Childcare Strategy for the next three years.
The costs associated with the Childcare Strategy and profile of expenditure will be dependent on Executive decisions regarding its scope, scale and the pace of implementation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010393%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316242","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316242"}},{"id":"316241","reference":"AQW 10392/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-17","answerBy":"2020-12-02","answered":"2020-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she would meet with the Walk the Line campaign group in Ballyhalbert.","answerText":"Thank you for the opportunity to meet with the Walk the Line campaign group in Ballyhalbert.\n\nI very much welcome the interest that groups such as the Walk the Line campaign group take in relation to roads related matters but unfortunately my current diary commitments do not provide me with a suitable opportunity to meet with them at present. However, should the group wish to meet with an official from DfI Roads Southern Division to discuss their thoughts on footway provision or indeed any roads related matters in the area then this can be arranged by contacting the Division directly at southern.secretariat@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk","answerHtml":"Thank you for the opportunity to meet with the Walk the Line campaign group in Ballyhalbert.
I very much welcome the interest that groups such as the Walk the Line campaign group take in relation to roads related matters but unfortunately my current diary commitments do not provide me with a suitable opportunity to meet with them at present. However, should the group wish to meet with an official from DfI Roads Southern Division to discuss their thoughts on footway provision or indeed any roads related matters in the area then this can be arranged by contacting the Division directly at southern.secretariat@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010392%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316241","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316241"}},{"id":"316078","reference":"AQW 10288/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-16","answerBy":"2020-12-01","answered":"2020-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, following the Public Health England report that identified the COVID-19 death rate for adults with learning disabilities was 3.1 times the rates for adults without, whether his Department will review and produce the death rate in Northern Ireland for people with learning disabilities compared with adults without; and whether priority access to a future vaccine will be provided to this group.","answerText":"England’s COVID-19 Patient Notification System (CPNS) was set up in March 2020 to capture COVID-19 related deaths in hospitals in England. In a recent publication, Public Health England (PHE), using data sourced from CPNS, reported that the death rate for adults with learning disabilities with COVID-19 up to 5 June 2020 was 3.1 times the rate for adults without learning disabilities. COVID-19: deaths of people with learning disabilities - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). There is no equivalent CPNS data collection system here.\n\nLearning Disability is not captured as part of the death registration process upon which the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) produces death statistics.\n\nNISRA, through the Administrative Data Research-Northern Ireland, is currently developing a research project, to link death registration information to Census 2011. This research, which will commence in early 2021, will provide a greater understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on specific, vulnerable groups. The granularity of this analysis will be limited by anticipated small numbers in certain groups. The work is at the development stage but, depending on the quality of the linkage, is anticipated to report findings by mid-2021.\n\nResponsibility for access to a future vaccine is the responsibility of the Department of Health.","answerHtml":"England’s COVID-19 Patient Notification System (CPNS) was set up in March 2020 to capture COVID-19 related deaths in hospitals in England. In a recent publication, Public Health England (PHE), using data sourced from CPNS, reported that the death rate for adults with learning disabilities with COVID-19 up to 5 June 2020 was 3.1 times the rate for adults without learning disabilities. COVID-19: deaths of people with learning disabilities - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). There is no equivalent CPNS data collection system here.
Learning Disability is not captured as part of the death registration process upon which the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) produces death statistics.
NISRA, through the Administrative Data Research-Northern Ireland, is currently developing a research project, to link death registration information to Census 2011. This research, which will commence in early 2021, will provide a greater understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on specific, vulnerable groups. The granularity of this analysis will be limited by anticipated small numbers in certain groups. The work is at the development stage but, depending on the quality of the linkage, is anticipated to report findings by mid-2021.
Responsibility for access to a future vaccine is the responsibility of the Department of Health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010288%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316078","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316078"}},{"id":"316077","reference":"AQW 10287/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-16","answerBy":"2020-12-01","answered":"2020-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many unpaid family or friend carers there are; and to detail the criteria used to add, update and maintain a register of carers.","answerText":"There are currently 8,087 carers listed on the HSC Trusts’ Carer Registers as follows:\n\nHSC Trust\n\nBelfast 1,360\n\nNorthern1,979\n\nWestern1,791\n\nSouthern 885\n\nSouth Eastern2,072\n\nTotal: 8,087\n\nIn respect of eligibility for inclusion in the Registers, all that the HSC Trusts require is that a person needs to undertake an unpaid caring role within the Trust’s area.\n\nThe Registers are maintained by the Trusts’ Carer Co-ordinators. Carers are often referred to the Co-ordinators by GPs, other health professionals, or community and voluntary groups. Carers can also self-identify and ask to join the register.\n\nHSC Trusts regularly update their registers, often on a daily basis. Some Trusts undertake formal reviews of their registers periodically when carers are asked if they wish to remain on the register.","answerHtml":"There are currently 8,087 carers listed on the HSC Trusts’ Carer Registers as follows:
HSC Trust
Belfast 1,360
Northern1,979
Western1,791
Southern 885
South Eastern2,072
Total: 8,087
In respect of eligibility for inclusion in the Registers, all that the HSC Trusts require is that a person needs to undertake an unpaid caring role within the Trust’s area.
The Registers are maintained by the Trusts’ Carer Co-ordinators. Carers are often referred to the Co-ordinators by GPs, other health professionals, or community and voluntary groups. Carers can also self-identify and ask to join the register.
HSC Trusts regularly update their registers, often on a daily basis. Some Trusts undertake formal reviews of their registers periodically when carers are asked if they wish to remain on the register.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010287%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316077","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316077"}},{"id":"316076","reference":"AQW 10286/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-16","answerBy":"2020-12-01","answered":"2020-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many people in each constituency receive carers allowance; and how many of those carers are also in receipt of Universal Credit or legacy benefits.","answerText":"The table below shows the number of people who receive a Carers Allowance payment by constituency and who are also in receipt of Universal Credit or a legacy benefit. These figures are from the most recent published data as of May 2020.\n\nConstituency\tCarer's Allowance Recipients1\tAlso Claiming Universal Credit or a legacy benefit2\nBELFAST EAST\t2,150\t1,200\nBELFAST NORTH\t3,960\t2,660\nBELFAST SOUTH\t1,820\t1,080\nBELFAST WEST\t4,660\t3,400\nEAST ANTRIM\t1,990\t930\nEAST DERRY\t2,760\t1,430\nFERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE\t2,360\t1,140\nFOYLE\t3,880\t2,440\nLAGAN VALLEY\t1,890\t890\nMID ULSTER\t2,910\t1,360\nNEWRY AND ARMAGH\t3,220\t1,690\nNORTH ANTRIM\t2,390\t1,170\nNORTH DOWN\t1,640\t690\nSOUTH ANTRIM\t2,030\t930\nSOUTH DOWN\t2,950\t1,480\nSTRANGFORD\t2,090\t940\nUPPER BANN\t3,070\t1,560\nWEST TYRONE\t2,920\t1,580\nUNKNOWN3\t140\t100\nTotal4\t48,810\t26,650\n\n1 The Carers Allowance figures refer to people who receive a payment and does not include people who have what is known as an underlying entitlement to the benefit but do not receive a payment.\n\n2 Legacy benefits included in the above are Jobseekers Allowance, Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance and Pension Credit.\n\n3 In producing this analysis, individual records were attributed to a Parliamentary Constituency on the basis of their postcode. Not all records can be correctly allocated using this method, and some cannot be allocated at all.\n\n4 Figures may not sum due to rounding.","answerHtml":"The table below shows the number of people who receive a Carers Allowance payment by constituency and who are also in receipt of Universal Credit or a legacy benefit. These figures are from the most recent published data as of May 2020.
| Constituency | Carer's Allowance Recipients1 | Also Claiming Universal Credit or a legacy benefit2 |
| BELFAST EAST | 2,150 | 1,200 |
| BELFAST NORTH | 3,960 | 2,660 |
| BELFAST SOUTH | 1,820 | 1,080 |
| BELFAST WEST | 4,660 | 3,400 |
| EAST ANTRIM | 1,990 | 930 |
| EAST DERRY | 2,760 | 1,430 |
| FERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE | 2,360 | 1,140 |
| FOYLE | 3,880 | 2,440 |
| LAGAN VALLEY | 1,890 | 890 |
| MID ULSTER | 2,910 | 1,360 |
| NEWRY AND ARMAGH | 3,220 | 1,690 |
| NORTH ANTRIM | 2,390 | 1,170 |
| NORTH DOWN | 1,640 | 690 |
| SOUTH ANTRIM | 2,030 | 930 |
| SOUTH DOWN | 2,950 | 1,480 |
| STRANGFORD | 2,090 | 940 |
| UPPER BANN | 3,070 | 1,560 |
| WEST TYRONE | 2,920 | 1,580 |
| UNKNOWN3 | 140 | 100 |
| Total4 | 48,810 | 26,650 |
1 The Carers Allowance figures refer to people who receive a payment and does not include people who have what is known as an underlying entitlement to the benefit but do not receive a payment.
2 Legacy benefits included in the above are Jobseekers Allowance, Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance and Pension Credit.
3 In producing this analysis, individual records were attributed to a Parliamentary Constituency on the basis of their postcode. Not all records can be correctly allocated using this method, and some cannot be allocated at all.
4 Figures may not sum due to rounding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010286%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316076","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316076"}},{"id":"315912","reference":"AQW 10210/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-13","answerBy":"2020-11-30","answered":"2020-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide (i) a health and safety report on whether it is reasonably practicable for school children, who travel with an Education Authority (EA) issued boat pass on the Strangford ferry, where there is not enough shelter from inclement weather, to spend full days in school in wet, cold uniforms; and (ii) what actions his Department is taking to protect the health and wellbeing of those children who are under the responsibility of the EA Transport department while travelling from home to school.","answerText":"My Department and the Education Authority consider the health and safety of all pupils to be a key priority and a range of actions has been taken to protect pupils when using the home to school transport service during COVID-19. I recognise that many pupils will find themselves having to manage difficult weather conditions on their journey to school. This includes examples such as when they are travelling to/from, or waiting at, their bus pick up point and when using the Strangford Lough Ferry Service. It is not possible for all pupils to be sheltered on all such aspects of their journey to school and it is therefore important, as it is in any year, for all pupils to be prepared for such conditions by having suitable clothing with them. There is no additional health and safety assessment in respect of this.\n\nMy officials have worked closely with those from the Department for Infrastructure, the Education Authority and Translink in recent months to enable pupils to use the Strangford Lough Ferry Service for their journey to school. As a result of this there are now two additional ferry sailings to facilitate those using the home to school transport service and bus services have been scheduled to ensure a seamless transition. Social distancing requirements on the ferry do not allow all pupils to use the passenger cabin. Alternatives have been explored and it is considered that while some pupils are likely to be without shelter for the seven minute journey on the ferry, on balance this is preferable to the alternative of bus transport around the lough which is likely to add considerably to the duration of pupils’ journeys.","answerHtml":"My Department and the Education Authority consider the health and safety of all pupils to be a key priority and a range of actions has been taken to protect pupils when using the home to school transport service during COVID-19. I recognise that many pupils will find themselves having to manage difficult weather conditions on their journey to school. This includes examples such as when they are travelling to/from, or waiting at, their bus pick up point and when using the Strangford Lough Ferry Service. It is not possible for all pupils to be sheltered on all such aspects of their journey to school and it is therefore important, as it is in any year, for all pupils to be prepared for such conditions by having suitable clothing with them. There is no additional health and safety assessment in respect of this.
My officials have worked closely with those from the Department for Infrastructure, the Education Authority and Translink in recent months to enable pupils to use the Strangford Lough Ferry Service for their journey to school. As a result of this there are now two additional ferry sailings to facilitate those using the home to school transport service and bus services have been scheduled to ensure a seamless transition. Social distancing requirements on the ferry do not allow all pupils to use the passenger cabin. Alternatives have been explored and it is considered that while some pupils are likely to be without shelter for the seven minute journey on the ferry, on balance this is preferable to the alternative of bus transport around the lough which is likely to add considerably to the duration of pupils’ journeys.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010210%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315912","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315912"}},{"id":"315911","reference":"AQW 10209/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-13","answerBy":"2020-11-30","answered":"2020-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, given there is not enough indoor passenger capacity to provide protection from inclement weather, what plans are in place to protect the daily foot passengers on the Strangford Ferry.","answerText":"Arrangements for additional morning and afternoon passenger-only sailings were put in place to facilitate the transportation of the large number of school children who need to travel at the same time. The use of the main open deck as an outdoor area, reduces the risk of Covid-19 transmission, while also maximising the number of passengers who can be carried. Unfortunately in applying the public health advice, this does mean that on occasions passengers may be exposed to inclement weather conditions on the 7 minute journey. Foot passengers are therefore recommended to wear suitable clothing.\n\nOfficials have explored options for putting additional shelter in place but no safe and practical option has as yet been identified.","answerHtml":"Arrangements for additional morning and afternoon passenger-only sailings were put in place to facilitate the transportation of the large number of school children who need to travel at the same time. The use of the main open deck as an outdoor area, reduces the risk of Covid-19 transmission, while also maximising the number of passengers who can be carried. Unfortunately in applying the public health advice, this does mean that on occasions passengers may be exposed to inclement weather conditions on the 7 minute journey. Foot passengers are therefore recommended to wear suitable clothing.
Officials have explored options for putting additional shelter in place but no safe and practical option has as yet been identified.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010209%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315911","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315911"}},{"id":"315910","reference":"AQW 10208/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-13","answerBy":"2020-11-30","answered":"2020-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will commission a report into the provision and review of footpaths (i) around the Ards Peninsula; (ii) the Ballyhalbert Shore Road; and (iii) the footpath from Newtownards to Teal Rocks, Portaferry Road.","answerText":"All requests for improvements to the road network, including the provision of a footway schemes or upgrading works, are assessed in line with my Department’s current policies and guidance and all works are subject to prioritisation, with all viable proposals competing for the limited funding available.\n\nWhile I can appreciate why you have asked about my Department commissioning a report into the provision and review of footways at individual locations such as Ards Peninsula, it would not, given the Department’s financial position, be the most effective use of limited resources. However if there are specific locations within the Ards Peninsula where you feel that a footway is merited then these should be brought to the attention of my officials so that they can be considered and assessed.\n\nIn relation to the previous request for a footway on Shore Road Ballyhalbert, my officials will update the feasibility study and costings to determine whether a scheme can be undertaken and included within a future works programme.\n\nThe request for the provision of a footway at Teal Rocks has previously been assessed by my officials but it did not rank as highly as other schemes in Southern Division. I have however asked that officials keep this request under review.","answerHtml":"All requests for improvements to the road network, including the provision of a footway schemes or upgrading works, are assessed in line with my Department’s current policies and guidance and all works are subject to prioritisation, with all viable proposals competing for the limited funding available.
While I can appreciate why you have asked about my Department commissioning a report into the provision and review of footways at individual locations such as Ards Peninsula, it would not, given the Department’s financial position, be the most effective use of limited resources. However if there are specific locations within the Ards Peninsula where you feel that a footway is merited then these should be brought to the attention of my officials so that they can be considered and assessed.
In relation to the previous request for a footway on Shore Road Ballyhalbert, my officials will update the feasibility study and costings to determine whether a scheme can be undertaken and included within a future works programme.
The request for the provision of a footway at Teal Rocks has previously been assessed by my officials but it did not rank as highly as other schemes in Southern Division. I have however asked that officials keep this request under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010208%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315910","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315910"}},{"id":"315909","reference":"AQW 10207/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-13","answerBy":"2020-11-30","answered":"2020-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) how much she has bid for to fund the coastal road report recommendations for the Ards Peninsula in this financial year; and (ii) how much she will be applying for in 2021/22.","answerText":"The funding for works carried out to protect coastal roads in the Ards Peninsula is not bid for separately but rather forms part of my overall capital funding allocation and I understand that £280k has been allocated towards such works in the current year.\n\nLooking forward I recognise the importance of investment in the road infrastructure and have highlighted a funding requirement for road maintenance as part of the information gathering exercise for Budget 2021-22. I will work collaboratively with the Minister for Finance and Executive colleagues as part of the Budget settlement to make the case for sustainable investment in our infrastructure and the outcome of this will influence the levels of funding that will be made available for works in the Ards Peninsula.","answerHtml":"The funding for works carried out to protect coastal roads in the Ards Peninsula is not bid for separately but rather forms part of my overall capital funding allocation and I understand that £280k has been allocated towards such works in the current year.
Looking forward I recognise the importance of investment in the road infrastructure and have highlighted a funding requirement for road maintenance as part of the information gathering exercise for Budget 2021-22. I will work collaboratively with the Minister for Finance and Executive colleagues as part of the Budget settlement to make the case for sustainable investment in our infrastructure and the outcome of this will influence the levels of funding that will be made available for works in the Ards Peninsula.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010207%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315909","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315909"}},{"id":"315714","reference":"AQW 10149/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-12","answerBy":"2020-11-27","answered":"2020-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will release an adult social care infection fund to provide support to all providers of domiciliary care to ensure all people being cared for at home are receiving the same level of protection, care and support as those living in residential or nursing home care.","answerText":"I recently approved a £5m fund which in providing tangible support to domiciliary care providers will enable them to claim back reasonable expenses incurred as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. These reasonable expenses can include the purchase of PPE, enhanced sick pay and additional staffing costs, such as further recruitment and training.","answerHtml":"I recently approved a £5m fund which in providing tangible support to domiciliary care providers will enable them to claim back reasonable expenses incurred as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. These reasonable expenses can include the purchase of PPE, enhanced sick pay and additional staffing costs, such as further recruitment and training.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010149%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315714","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315714"}},{"id":"315713","reference":"AQW 10148/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-12","answerBy":"2020-11-27","answered":"2020-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, given respite and day-care services are not in place, whether he will provide a carer's fund of £500 per carer in recognition of the level of care and support since the outbreak of COVID-19.","answerText":"I have already placed on record my heart-felt appreciation for the significant role carers play in our community, particularly during the pandemic.\n\nWhile short break and day care provision has been reduced as a result of the pandemic, the HSC Trusts are offering such provision to service users, where possible. In those instances where service provision is not able to meet the assessed need, the Trusts are instead offering Direct Payments and Carer Grants to facilitate the service user/family to source their own short break provision.\n\nIn addition, I have asked my officials to draft an options paper for my consideration, which will include a range of possible additional supports to all health and social care staff. As part of the options to be explored, I have also asked that a payment to carers be included. Whilst any decision would likely need Executive approval due to the impact on the overall Northern Ireland budget, I do believe it would be appropriate to recognise the extraordinary efforts and sacrifices of staff and carers.","answerHtml":"I have already placed on record my heart-felt appreciation for the significant role carers play in our community, particularly during the pandemic.
While short break and day care provision has been reduced as a result of the pandemic, the HSC Trusts are offering such provision to service users, where possible. In those instances where service provision is not able to meet the assessed need, the Trusts are instead offering Direct Payments and Carer Grants to facilitate the service user/family to source their own short break provision.
In addition, I have asked my officials to draft an options paper for my consideration, which will include a range of possible additional supports to all health and social care staff. As part of the options to be explored, I have also asked that a payment to carers be included. Whilst any decision would likely need Executive approval due to the impact on the overall Northern Ireland budget, I do believe it would be appropriate to recognise the extraordinary efforts and sacrifices of staff and carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010148%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315713","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315713"}},{"id":"315712","reference":"AQW 10147/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-12","answerBy":"2020-11-27","answered":"2021-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what steps she intends to take to ensure that Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) rents remain the lowest in the sector; and how this will be managed when the landlord section of NIHE moves to become part of the social housing network of providers.","answerText":"Officials have commenced work to assess options to revitalise the Housing Executive inclusive of a comprehensive rental review.\n\nIt is my preference that the landlord section of the Housing Executive becomes a co-operative or mutual model.\n\nI intend to bring proposals to the Executive before the end of this mandate.","answerHtml":"Officials have commenced work to assess options to revitalise the Housing Executive inclusive of a comprehensive rental review.
It is my preference that the landlord section of the Housing Executive becomes a co-operative or mutual model.
I intend to bring proposals to the Executive before the end of this mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010147%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315712","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315712"}},{"id":"315711","reference":"AQW 10146/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-12","answerBy":"2020-11-27","answered":"2020-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether funding for any Housing Executive new builds will be subject to the same conditions as Housing Association Grant payments.","answerText":"We are still in the early stages of looking at how to reform the Housing Executive to enable it to begin construction again. Funding conditions will be carefully considered in due course.","answerHtml":"We are still in the early stages of looking at how to reform the Housing Executive to enable it to begin construction again. Funding conditions will be carefully considered in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010146%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315711","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315711"}},{"id":"315330","reference":"AQW 10000/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-10","answerBy":"2020-11-25","answered":"2020-11-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) why the £11 million Engage Programme school restart funding was not made available to special school principals and pupils; and (ii) whether a full equality impact screening was completed before issuing this grant.","answerText":"(i) Special schools are not included in the Engage programme as they don’t receive a delegated budget; rather their staffing complement is provided according to identified and individual pupil need, often with one to one or small group adult to child ratios.\n\nI have asked officials to work with the Education Authority and Special Schools Principals to consider options for a similar model to the Engage programme, subject to securing funding, to help address the impact of school closures, in terms of lost learning, on children and young people with complex needs in Special Schools. A meeting of the working group is to take place in coming weeks.\n\n(ii) The Engage programme was subject to an equality screening process and the policy was screened out. A copy of the screening document can be found on the Department’s website at:-\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/Equality%20Screening%20-the%20Engage%20Programme%20%28August%202020%29.pdf","answerHtml":"(i) Special schools are not included in the Engage programme as they don’t receive a delegated budget; rather their staffing complement is provided according to identified and individual pupil need, often with one to one or small group adult to child ratios.
I have asked officials to work with the Education Authority and Special Schools Principals to consider options for a similar model to the Engage programme, subject to securing funding, to help address the impact of school closures, in terms of lost learning, on children and young people with complex needs in Special Schools. A meeting of the working group is to take place in coming weeks.
(ii) The Engage programme was subject to an equality screening process and the policy was screened out. A copy of the screening document can be found on the Department’s website at:-
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/education/Equality%20Screening%20-the%20Engage%20Programme%20%28August%202020%29.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010000%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315330","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315330"}},{"id":"315329","reference":"AQW 9999/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-10","answerBy":"2020-11-25","answered":"2020-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many substitute teachers are currently available to school principals required to replace teachers who have to self-isolate or who have COVID-19.","answerText":"There were 9,302 teachers registered as available for work on the Northern Ireland Substitute Teachers’ Register (NISTR) as at 16 November 2020. In a usual month, between 3,000 and 4,000 substitute teachers will receive bookings through NISTR.\n\nA fund for teacher substitution costs, to support existing staff absences specifically as a result of Covid-19, is being centrally managed by the Education Authority, and will be allocated to schools based on verified costs.","answerHtml":"There were 9,302 teachers registered as available for work on the Northern Ireland Substitute Teachers’ Register (NISTR) as at 16 November 2020. In a usual month, between 3,000 and 4,000 substitute teachers will receive bookings through NISTR.
A fund for teacher substitution costs, to support existing staff absences specifically as a result of Covid-19, is being centrally managed by the Education Authority, and will be allocated to schools based on verified costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209999%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315329","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315329"}},{"id":"315328","reference":"AQW 9998/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-10","answerBy":"2020-11-25","answered":"2020-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when he will deliver on the New Decade, New Approach commitment to publish a childcare strategy and childcare budget.","answerText":"Resources of the Childcare Unit within my Department have been solely focussed on the response to the Covid-19 pandemic since March of this year. While this remains the immediate priority, the learning from the past eight months will help shape our plans for the full Executive Ten Year Childcare Strategy.\n\nI have committed to a Strategic Insight Lab which will take on board this experience and, with input from key stakeholders, help inform the development of a roadmap for the way ahead. This is being planned for the New Year (work on the Covid-19 pandemic, permitting). It will provide an opportunity to review the assumptions and actions within the draft Childcare Strategy, including the commitment to an Early Education and Childcare Offer as referenced in ‘New Decade New Approach’.\n\nThere is currently no capital or revenue budget allocated to my Department to fund the Executive Childcare Strategy. Significant policy and resourcing issues have yet to be considered and decisions on these will require Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"Resources of the Childcare Unit within my Department have been solely focussed on the response to the Covid-19 pandemic since March of this year. While this remains the immediate priority, the learning from the past eight months will help shape our plans for the full Executive Ten Year Childcare Strategy.
I have committed to a Strategic Insight Lab which will take on board this experience and, with input from key stakeholders, help inform the development of a roadmap for the way ahead. This is being planned for the New Year (work on the Covid-19 pandemic, permitting). It will provide an opportunity to review the assumptions and actions within the draft Childcare Strategy, including the commitment to an Early Education and Childcare Offer as referenced in ‘New Decade New Approach’.
There is currently no capital or revenue budget allocated to my Department to fund the Executive Childcare Strategy. Significant policy and resourcing issues have yet to be considered and decisions on these will require Executive agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209998%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315328","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315328"}},{"id":"315327","reference":"AQW 9997/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-10","answerBy":"2020-11-25","answered":"2020-11-18","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 New Decade, New Approach commitment of the reform of education.","answerText":"In March, I temporarily suspended work on the Independent Review so that staff could be redeployed to deal with urgent Covid 19 related matters. I have, however, recently asked for planning work to be recommenced. As a result, in the coming weeks, I will table a draft Terms of Reference for the Independent Review at the Executive for consideration and comment.\n\nIn line with the New Decade New Approach document, the Independent Review will cover a wide range of issues relating to education design and delivery. The Review will focus on the education journey and outcomes of children and young people; support for schools and settings; and system level design, delivery and administration.\n\nThe Review is expected to provide a strategic and evidence based assessment of the effectiveness of the current education system in Northern Ireland and the outcomes it delivers for children and young people.\n\nThe Review itself will commence in 2021, once an open recruitment process has been undertaken to establish an appropriate Panel. I intend to ask the Panel to report within 15 months of taking up post, with an interim report to be prepared within 9 months.","answerHtml":"In March, I temporarily suspended work on the Independent Review so that staff could be redeployed to deal with urgent Covid 19 related matters. I have, however, recently asked for planning work to be recommenced. As a result, in the coming weeks, I will table a draft Terms of Reference for the Independent Review at the Executive for consideration and comment.
In line with the New Decade New Approach document, the Independent Review will cover a wide range of issues relating to education design and delivery. The Review will focus on the education journey and outcomes of children and young people; support for schools and settings; and system level design, delivery and administration.
The Review is expected to provide a strategic and evidence based assessment of the effectiveness of the current education system in Northern Ireland and the outcomes it delivers for children and young people.
The Review itself will commence in 2021, once an open recruitment process has been undertaken to establish an appropriate Panel. I intend to ask the Panel to report within 15 months of taking up post, with an interim report to be prepared within 9 months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209997%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315327","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315327"}},{"id":"315326","reference":"AQW 9996/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-10","answerBy":"2020-11-25","answered":"2020-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what support and consideration will be provided for pupils with dyslexia, or other learning disabilities, for CCEA English now that GCSE talking and listening elements have been removed from the 2020/21 exam.","answerText":"Schools are best placed to give support and consideration to the specific, individual needs of their students with regard to teaching approaches and assessment adaptations. As is the case each year, individualised adaptations are made for candidates with additional educational needs.\n\nThe Education Authority, through its Pupil Support - Literacy Service, provides support for pupils, schools and parents in the area of specific learning difficulties in Literacy (SpLD) including Dyslexia.","answerHtml":"Schools are best placed to give support and consideration to the specific, individual needs of their students with regard to teaching approaches and assessment adaptations. As is the case each year, individualised adaptations are made for candidates with additional educational needs.
The Education Authority, through its Pupil Support - Literacy Service, provides support for pupils, schools and parents in the area of specific learning difficulties in Literacy (SpLD) including Dyslexia.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209996%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315326","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315326"}},{"id":"314991","reference":"AQW 9920/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-09","answerBy":"2020-11-24","answered":"2020-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many people have claimed Statutory Sick Pay for COVID-19-related absences from work since March 2020.","answerText":"The Department does not hold this information in relation to Statutory Sick Pay.\n\nHRMC holds standard payroll information on SSP payments.","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold this information in relation to Statutory Sick Pay.
HRMC holds standard payroll information on SSP payments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209920%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314991"}},{"id":"314990","reference":"AQW 9919/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-09","answerBy":"2020-11-24","answered":"2020-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she is considering statutory sick pay levels as part of the review of welfare mitigation measures.","answerText":"My Department is not yet in a position to provide details of the specific issues that will be covered in the forthcoming review of welfare mitigations. However, it is expected that the review will focus on support for people claiming social security benefits. Therefore the levels of Statutory Sick Pay will not form part of the review Statutory Sick Pay is payable to employees who are unable to work due to illness","answerHtml":"My Department is not yet in a position to provide details of the specific issues that will be covered in the forthcoming review of welfare mitigations. However, it is expected that the review will focus on support for people claiming social security benefits. Therefore the levels of Statutory Sick Pay will not form part of the review Statutory Sick Pay is payable to employees who are unable to work due to illness
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209919%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314990"}},{"id":"314989","reference":"AQW 9918/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-09","answerBy":"2020-11-24","answered":"2020-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what discussions she has had with her counterparts in Westminster regarding the TUC and Living Wage Foundation recommendation to increase statutory sick pay from £95.85 to £320 per week.","answerText":"In March, my predecessor, Deirdre Hargey MLA, wrote to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions requesting that urgent consideration was given to increasing the rate of statutory sick pay to reflect the true cost of living through adopting the real living wage as the standard rate of Statutory Sick Pay. This would ensure that individuals are financially supported during this worldwide pandemic, removing a potential source of stress and worry and ensuring that all those who are ill or self-isolate do not continue working and potentially endangering the health of others and spreading the virus further.\n\nDepending on their circumstances, people on low incomes and in receipt of Statutory Sick Pay may be able to get additional financial support through either Universal Credit or new-style ESA. I have also made available additional support to people who are on low incomes and are required to self-isolate, through the Discretionary Support Self-Isolation Grant. This payment is available to assist with short-term living expenses and it can be claimed by people who are temporarily unable to work due to COVID-19","answerHtml":"In March, my predecessor, Deirdre Hargey MLA, wrote to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions requesting that urgent consideration was given to increasing the rate of statutory sick pay to reflect the true cost of living through adopting the real living wage as the standard rate of Statutory Sick Pay. This would ensure that individuals are financially supported during this worldwide pandemic, removing a potential source of stress and worry and ensuring that all those who are ill or self-isolate do not continue working and potentially endangering the health of others and spreading the virus further.
Depending on their circumstances, people on low incomes and in receipt of Statutory Sick Pay may be able to get additional financial support through either Universal Credit or new-style ESA. I have also made available additional support to people who are on low incomes and are required to self-isolate, through the Discretionary Support Self-Isolation Grant. This payment is available to assist with short-term living expenses and it can be claimed by people who are temporarily unable to work due to COVID-19
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209918%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314989","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314989"}},{"id":"314988","reference":"AQW 9917/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-09","answerBy":"2020-11-24","answered":"2020-11-17","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 deal with the number of people removing the Stop COVID-19 app.","answerText":"Use of the app is entirely voluntary and it is designed not to track usage for privacy reasons.\n\nThe benefits of using the app to assist in breaking the chains of transmission are being actively promoted through a communications campaign through news and social media.\n\nAs you will be aware, I have had personal experience of receiving a notification via the app after which I worked in self-isolation for the stipulated 14 day period. I shared this on Twitter at the time in the hope that this would encourage others to download and use the app.","answerHtml":"Use of the app is entirely voluntary and it is designed not to track usage for privacy reasons.
The benefits of using the app to assist in breaking the chains of transmission are being actively promoted through a communications campaign through news and social media.
As you will be aware, I have had personal experience of receiving a notification via the app after which I worked in self-isolation for the stipulated 14 day period. I shared this on Twitter at the time in the hope that this would encourage others to download and use the app.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209917%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314988","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314988"}},{"id":"314987","reference":"AQW 9916/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-09","answerBy":"2020-11-24","answered":"2020-11-17","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 counting the number of people who have deleted the Stop COVID-19 app.","answerText":"Information on the number of people who have deleted the STOPCovid NI app is not collected by my Department. An undertaking was made to key stakeholders prior to the launch of the app to limit the data collected to help address any privacy concerns.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of people who have deleted the STOPCovid NI app is not collected by my Department. An undertaking was made to key stakeholders prior to the launch of the app to limit the data collected to help address any privacy concerns.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209916%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314987","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314987"}},{"id":"314820","reference":"AQW 9846/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-06","answerBy":"2020-11-23","answered":"2020-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what checks and balances have been put in place in Health and Social Care Trusts to ensure people with complex needs and their carers are coping during this pandemic; and how many respite care requests have been refused over the past 12 months.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts have maintained regular contact with service users and families during the COVID-19 pandemic, monitoring their needs and offering assessments and care planning to assist carers with their caring roles. Such contact has been undertaken by a range of staff including key workers, multi-disciplinary teams as well as the carers support teams either by phone, video link or, on occasion, in person.\n\nThe Trusts have also engaged with the independent and voluntary sectors, as appropriate, to seek ways to better support service users.\n\nIn addition, Trusts have provided short break provision where possible and they have offered Direct Payments to families in lieu of those services which have been reduced or paused as a direct result of the pandemic. Short break demand often will exceed capacity and in instances where this happens, the Trust will seek to negotiate a suitable solution with the family concerned. During the lockdown period (March-August 2020) many bed-based short breaks were paused in order to adhere to guidance to prevent Covid-19 transmission.\n\nOnly the Western Trust has reported refusing requests (7) for ‘respite care’ or short break provision over the past 12 months. Furthermore, it should be noted that, on occasion, families themselves turned down the opportunity to avail of short break provision due to family members shielding or because of concerns about cross infection.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts have maintained regular contact with service users and families during the COVID-19 pandemic, monitoring their needs and offering assessments and care planning to assist carers with their caring roles. Such contact has been undertaken by a range of staff including key workers, multi-disciplinary teams as well as the carers support teams either by phone, video link or, on occasion, in person.
The Trusts have also engaged with the independent and voluntary sectors, as appropriate, to seek ways to better support service users.
In addition, Trusts have provided short break provision where possible and they have offered Direct Payments to families in lieu of those services which have been reduced or paused as a direct result of the pandemic. Short break demand often will exceed capacity and in instances where this happens, the Trust will seek to negotiate a suitable solution with the family concerned. During the lockdown period (March-August 2020) many bed-based short breaks were paused in order to adhere to guidance to prevent Covid-19 transmission.
Only the Western Trust has reported refusing requests (7) for ‘respite care’ or short break provision over the past 12 months. Furthermore, it should be noted that, on occasion, families themselves turned down the opportunity to avail of short break provision due to family members shielding or because of concerns about cross infection.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209846%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314820","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314820"}},{"id":"314584","reference":"AQW 9773/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-20","answered":"2020-11-24","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 their commitments to building a united and shared society through the Together: Building a United Community Strategy.","answerText":"There has been significant progress to date in delivering the T:BUC Strategy including its headline actions.\n\nOver 20,000 young people have taken part in 570 T:BUC Camps and five Urban Villages have been established. Five Shared Education Campuses have been approved and are in progress. 10 shared neighbourhoods, providing 483 new homes, have been completed, meeting the target set in the T:BUC Strategy. Over 5,600 young people have participated in the Peace4Youth programme. Approximately 2,700 young people have engaged with the Uniting Communities through Sport and Creativity Programme, while the number of interface barriers has been reduced by 14.\n\nWithin TEO, the Central Good Relations Fund has provided funding of £15m since 2016, supporting over 460 projects, while a further £3m is distributed annually through the District Council Good Relations Programme. These key good relations programmes deliver against the four key priorities of the T:BUC Strategy.","answerHtml":"There has been significant progress to date in delivering the T:BUC Strategy including its headline actions.
Over 20,000 young people have taken part in 570 T:BUC Camps and five Urban Villages have been established. Five Shared Education Campuses have been approved and are in progress. 10 shared neighbourhoods, providing 483 new homes, have been completed, meeting the target set in the T:BUC Strategy. Over 5,600 young people have participated in the Peace4Youth programme. Approximately 2,700 young people have engaged with the Uniting Communities through Sport and Creativity Programme, while the number of interface barriers has been reduced by 14.
Within TEO, the Central Good Relations Fund has provided funding of £15m since 2016, supporting over 460 projects, while a further £3m is distributed annually through the District Council Good Relations Programme. These key good relations programmes deliver against the four key priorities of the T:BUC Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209773%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314584","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314584"}},{"id":"314583","reference":"AQW 9772/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-20","answered":"2020-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what her Department is doing to fulfil the Executive's commitment to building a united and shared society through the Together: Building a United Community strategy.","answerText":"The Department of Justice leads work on the Interfaces Programme, one of the seven headline actions under the auspices of the Executive’s Together: building a united community (T:buc) Strategy.\n\nI am committed to working towards the reduction and removal of interface security structures, wherever they exist, across Northern Ireland.\n\nWorking with those most affected by any proposed change to an existing interface structure - typically, those living closest to them - is one of the key principles that underpins the T:buc Interfaces Programme as outlined in the Programme Framework (https://www.justiceni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/justice/interfaces-programme.pdf)\n\nPeople living in interface communities have demonstrated that they are keen to see security barriers or ‘peace walls’ removed.\n\nOver recent years, the number of DoJ-owned interface structures has reduced from 59 to 45. A number of other structures have been reduced in height or nature and the opening times of interface gates extended to reduce the significant impediment such structures present to local people going about their daily business.\n\nOn one particular scheme in North Belfast, the removal of a substantial portion of high interface security fencing made way for a multi-use games area and playpark for local children and opened up shared access to local community facilities.\n\nWe rely on political, community and inter-Departmental support to make progress under the T:buc Interfaces Programme. The other aspects of T:buc aimed at fostering reconciliation through changing mindsets also play a key role in creating the conditions for local people to have confidence in the reduction or removal of a nearby physical interface barrier.","answerHtml":"The Department of Justice leads work on the Interfaces Programme, one of the seven headline actions under the auspices of the Executive’s Together: building a united community (T:buc) Strategy.
I am committed to working towards the reduction and removal of interface security structures, wherever they exist, across Northern Ireland.
Working with those most affected by any proposed change to an existing interface structure - typically, those living closest to them - is one of the key principles that underpins the T:buc Interfaces Programme as outlined in the Programme Framework (https://www.justiceni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/justice/interfaces-programme.pdf)
People living in interface communities have demonstrated that they are keen to see security barriers or ‘peace walls’ removed.
Over recent years, the number of DoJ-owned interface structures has reduced from 59 to 45. A number of other structures have been reduced in height or nature and the opening times of interface gates extended to reduce the significant impediment such structures present to local people going about their daily business.
On one particular scheme in North Belfast, the removal of a substantial portion of high interface security fencing made way for a multi-use games area and playpark for local children and opened up shared access to local community facilities.
We rely on political, community and inter-Departmental support to make progress under the T:buc Interfaces Programme. The other aspects of T:buc aimed at fostering reconciliation through changing mindsets also play a key role in creating the conditions for local people to have confidence in the reduction or removal of a nearby physical interface barrier.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209772%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314583","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314583"}},{"id":"314582","reference":"AQW 9771/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-20","answered":"2020-11-19","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 what his Department is doing to fulfil the Executive's commitment to building a united and shared society through the Together: Building a United Community strategy.","answerText":"DAERA’s commitment to the Together: Building a United Community strategy is to promote and supports measures to address social isolation, service deficits and improve community cohesion in rural areas. This is achieved through the DAERA funding of almost £900,000 per annum for the Local Rural Community Support Service Programme and the Rural Infrastructure Support Programme. DAERA is also represented on the Good Relations Programme Board.","answerHtml":"DAERA’s commitment to the Together: Building a United Community strategy is to promote and supports measures to address social isolation, service deficits and improve community cohesion in rural areas. This is achieved through the DAERA funding of almost £900,000 per annum for the Local Rural Community Support Service Programme and the Rural Infrastructure Support Programme. DAERA is also represented on the Good Relations Programme Board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209771%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314582","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314582"}},{"id":"314581","reference":"AQW 9770/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-20","answered":"2020-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) how many times each of the Strangford Ferry Service ferries have been out of service for maintenance or breakdown in the past twelve months; and (ii) the maintenance cost for each ferry in that time.","answerText":"(i) In the last 12 months the ferries have been out of service for maintenance or due to a breakdown as follows:\n\nMV Strangford II - five times. Once for the planned 6 week annual refit, once due to contaminated fuel and three times to address potential faults; and\n\nMV Portaferry II – twice. Once for its planned 6 week annual refit, which was extended into June due to COVID-19 restrictions, and once due to a fault for which we are currently awaiting delivery of specialist parts to undertake repairs.\n\n(ii) In the last 12 months the maintenance costs for the MV Strangford II and MV Portaferry II have been £80.4k and £228.1k respectively.","answerHtml":"(i) In the last 12 months the ferries have been out of service for maintenance or due to a breakdown as follows:
MV Strangford II - five times. Once for the planned 6 week annual refit, once due to contaminated fuel and three times to address potential faults; and
MV Portaferry II – twice. Once for its planned 6 week annual refit, which was extended into June due to COVID-19 restrictions, and once due to a fault for which we are currently awaiting delivery of specialist parts to undertake repairs.
(ii) In the last 12 months the maintenance costs for the MV Strangford II and MV Portaferry II have been £80.4k and £228.1k respectively.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209770%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314581","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314581"}},{"id":"314580","reference":"AQW 9769/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-20","answered":"2020-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the current number of holders of (i) liquor licenses; and (ii) register of clubs, broken down by (a) sex; (b) age under 25 years old; (c) age 25 to 65 year old; (d) age 65 years plus; and (e) resident in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Although my Department is responsible for the policy and legislation regarding the retail sale and supply of alcoholic drinks, the courts are responsible for issuing liquor licences and certificates of registration.\n\nEach District Court provides my Department with the number of liquor licences and certificates of registration that they hold on an annual basis. The most recent figures the Department hold show there were 2679 liquor licences and 485 registered clubs in 2019.\n\nIt is possible for the courts to renew a licence up to 12 months after it expires and subsequent year’s figures may therefore show adjustments due to successful late applications.\n\nThe remainder of the information requested will be held in the registers of liquor licences and registered clubs in each District Court. I believe that the information is held in hard copy format and can be viewed by prior arrangement.","answerHtml":"Although my Department is responsible for the policy and legislation regarding the retail sale and supply of alcoholic drinks, the courts are responsible for issuing liquor licences and certificates of registration.
Each District Court provides my Department with the number of liquor licences and certificates of registration that they hold on an annual basis. The most recent figures the Department hold show there were 2679 liquor licences and 485 registered clubs in 2019.
It is possible for the courts to renew a licence up to 12 months after it expires and subsequent year’s figures may therefore show adjustments due to successful late applications.
The remainder of the information requested will be held in the registers of liquor licences and registered clubs in each District Court. I believe that the information is held in hard copy format and can be viewed by prior arrangement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209769%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314580","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314580"}},{"id":"317061","reference":"AQO 1111/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-16","answered":"2020-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she intends to bring formal proposals for an infrastructure commission to the Executive.","answerText":"I received the final report of the Ministerial Advisory Panel on Infrastructure on 2 October 2020. The report is clear in its recommendation that an Infrastructure Commission should be established in Northern Ireland.\n\nI subsequently shared the report with Executive colleagues, the Infrastructure Committee and the Speaker with a view to undertaking a period of engagement in respect of the Panel’s recommendations.\n\nI have already met Ministers Murphy and Poots in respect of the Panel’s work and am looking forward to meeting my other Ministerial colleagues in coming weeks. The Chair of the Panel also met the Committee on 11 November 2020.\n\nI acknowledge that the report and its recommendations go beyond the remit of my own Department and recognise the importance of this period of engagement in ensuring that any proposal I bring before the Executive will enable us to consider how we might best move forward to support the long-term planning and delivery of infrastructure, a critical component in the Executive’s Brexit planning and Covid recovery.","answerHtml":"I received the final report of the Ministerial Advisory Panel on Infrastructure on 2 October 2020. The report is clear in its recommendation that an Infrastructure Commission should be established in Northern Ireland.
I subsequently shared the report with Executive colleagues, the Infrastructure Committee and the Speaker with a view to undertaking a period of engagement in respect of the Panel’s recommendations.
I have already met Ministers Murphy and Poots in respect of the Panel’s work and am looking forward to meeting my other Ministerial colleagues in coming weeks. The Chair of the Panel also met the Committee on 11 November 2020.
I acknowledge that the report and its recommendations go beyond the remit of my own Department and recognise the importance of this period of engagement in ensuring that any proposal I bring before the Executive will enable us to consider how we might best move forward to support the long-term planning and delivery of infrastructure, a critical component in the Executive’s Brexit planning and Covid recovery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201111%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317061","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317061"}},{"id":"314433","reference":"AQW 9687/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-04","answerBy":"2020-11-19","answered":"2020-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what her Department is doing to fulfil the Executive's commitment to building a united and shared society through the Together: Building a United Community strategy.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for delivery of two of the headline actions under the T:BUC Strategy, the Uniting Communities through sport and creativity programme and the creation of 10 new shared neighbourhood developments.\n\nThe Uniting Communities through sport and creativity programme consists of three elements, two of which are inextricably linked. The ‘Uniting Communities through Leadership’ engages young people aged 16-24 who are recruited to become Young Leaders and take part in a structured training programme with the aim of creating the next generation of community leaders. Running parallel to this is ‘Uniting Communities through Community Activity’ for young participants aged 11-16 that uses sport and creativity to build good relations.\n\nThese elements of the programme involve delivery over a longer period in selected locations where community challenges exist. To date projects have been completed in the Falls and Village, the Colin and Eastside urban village areas of Belfast and a rural project in the Erne East area of Co Fermanagh.\n\nPart of the delivery model includes the ‘Uniting Communities by Building Capacity’ that awards funding through a Uniting Opportunities grant scheme which targets groups of marginalised young people. These shorter term projects help young people to better engage with their community by building their confidence, personal abilities, core skills and building good relations. Since 2017 the scheme has provided funding to 17 different organisations, delivering 30 projects, and engaging almost 1,000 of the most marginalised young people in society today.\n\nDelivery of the programme has been disrupted in 2020/21 due to COVID-19 restrictions. However the young leaders continue to train across delivery areas with the Uniting Ardoyne and Ballysillan project currently completing the final ‘Embedding Sustainability’ stage and the Uniting Derg project in Co Tyrone due to recommence activity in December 2020.\n\nThe 10 T:BUC shared housing schemes have completed, and they are being supported through Advisory Groups which have been established to oversee the development and delivery of five-year Good Relations Plans. The Plans include ‘bonding’ projects/events which are delivered to the new shared housing residents, and ‘Bridging’ projects/events which are delivered between the shared housing residents and residents from the surrounding communities (within a five-mile radius of the shared schemes).\n\nThe 10 T:BUC schemes have been the catalyst for further shared housing commitments in the (Draft) Programme for Government 2016-2021; badged as ‘Housing for All’. There are an additional 24 schemes under development, and the Department is liaising with the Housing Executive to bring additional schemes onto the 2020/21 Shared Housing Programme. This additionality has been made possible through funding received from the Fresh Start Agreement. As with the 10 T:BUC schemes, the ‘Housing for All’ schemes will be supported through the establishment of Advisory Groups and the development and delivery of five-year Good Relations Plans.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for delivery of two of the headline actions under the T:BUC Strategy, the Uniting Communities through sport and creativity programme and the creation of 10 new shared neighbourhood developments.
The Uniting Communities through sport and creativity programme consists of three elements, two of which are inextricably linked. The ‘Uniting Communities through Leadership’ engages young people aged 16-24 who are recruited to become Young Leaders and take part in a structured training programme with the aim of creating the next generation of community leaders. Running parallel to this is ‘Uniting Communities through Community Activity’ for young participants aged 11-16 that uses sport and creativity to build good relations.
These elements of the programme involve delivery over a longer period in selected locations where community challenges exist. To date projects have been completed in the Falls and Village, the Colin and Eastside urban village areas of Belfast and a rural project in the Erne East area of Co Fermanagh.
Part of the delivery model includes the ‘Uniting Communities by Building Capacity’ that awards funding through a Uniting Opportunities grant scheme which targets groups of marginalised young people. These shorter term projects help young people to better engage with their community by building their confidence, personal abilities, core skills and building good relations. Since 2017 the scheme has provided funding to 17 different organisations, delivering 30 projects, and engaging almost 1,000 of the most marginalised young people in society today.
Delivery of the programme has been disrupted in 2020/21 due to COVID-19 restrictions. However the young leaders continue to train across delivery areas with the Uniting Ardoyne and Ballysillan project currently completing the final ‘Embedding Sustainability’ stage and the Uniting Derg project in Co Tyrone due to recommence activity in December 2020.
The 10 T:BUC shared housing schemes have completed, and they are being supported through Advisory Groups which have been established to oversee the development and delivery of five-year Good Relations Plans. The Plans include ‘bonding’ projects/events which are delivered to the new shared housing residents, and ‘Bridging’ projects/events which are delivered between the shared housing residents and residents from the surrounding communities (within a five-mile radius of the shared schemes).
The 10 T:BUC schemes have been the catalyst for further shared housing commitments in the (Draft) Programme for Government 2016-2021; badged as ‘Housing for All’. There are an additional 24 schemes under development, and the Department is liaising with the Housing Executive to bring additional schemes onto the 2020/21 Shared Housing Programme. This additionality has been made possible through funding received from the Fresh Start Agreement. As with the 10 T:BUC schemes, the ‘Housing for All’ schemes will be supported through the establishment of Advisory Groups and the development and delivery of five-year Good Relations Plans.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209687%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314433","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314433"}},{"id":"314432","reference":"AQW 9686/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-04","answerBy":"2020-11-19","answered":"2020-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what his Department is doing to fulfil the Executive's commitment to building a united and shared society through the Together: Building a United Community strategy.","answerText":"My Department has Member State responsibility for the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme and co-sponsor responsibility, with the Irish Government’s Department of Public Expenditure & Reform, for the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), which manages its implementation. Many interventions are delivered through this programme in line with the Together: Building a United Community Strategy, along various themes including Children & Young People, Local Authority Action Plans and Shared Spaces & Services.\n\nThe Strategy also has a key role in helping the Executive achieve previously published draft Programme for Government and NICS Outcome Delivery Plans, particularly in relation to the outcome of people wanting to live, work and visit here. The Department’s Permanent Secretary, Sue Gray, has ownership of that outcome, providing support and challenge to ensure the collective actions within the outcome are successfully delivered.","answerHtml":"My Department has Member State responsibility for the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme and co-sponsor responsibility, with the Irish Government’s Department of Public Expenditure & Reform, for the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), which manages its implementation. Many interventions are delivered through this programme in line with the Together: Building a United Community Strategy, along various themes including Children & Young People, Local Authority Action Plans and Shared Spaces & Services.
The Strategy also has a key role in helping the Executive achieve previously published draft Programme for Government and NICS Outcome Delivery Plans, particularly in relation to the outcome of people wanting to live, work and visit here. The Department’s Permanent Secretary, Sue Gray, has ownership of that outcome, providing support and challenge to ensure the collective actions within the outcome are successfully delivered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209686%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314432","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314432"}},{"id":"314431","reference":"AQW 9685/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-04","answerBy":"2020-11-19","answered":"2020-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what his Department is doing to fulfil the Executive's commitment to building a united and shared society through the Together: Building a United Community strategy.","answerText":"My department continues to engage fully with the Together: Building a United Community (T:BUC) Strategy through our membership of the Good Relations Project Board, which was established to support delivery of the strategy across departments.\n\nIn recent years, T:BUC funding has supported vulnerable children and families known to Health and Social Care Trusts to, among other things: strengthen team working and leadership skills; build resilience; develop a better understanding of cultural differences; and encourage them to play an active role in their communities.","answerHtml":"My department continues to engage fully with the Together: Building a United Community (T:BUC) Strategy through our membership of the Good Relations Project Board, which was established to support delivery of the strategy across departments.
In recent years, T:BUC funding has supported vulnerable children and families known to Health and Social Care Trusts to, among other things: strengthen team working and leadership skills; build resilience; develop a better understanding of cultural differences; and encourage them to play an active role in their communities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209685%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314431","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314431"}},{"id":"314430","reference":"AQW 9684/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-04","answerBy":"2020-11-19","answered":"2020-11-11","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 her Department is doing to fulfil the Executive's commitment to building a united and shared society through the Together: Building a United Community strategy.","answerText":"My Department has responsibility for the United Youth Commitment under the Executive’s ‘Together: Building a United Community’ strategy. This commitment of 10,000 places for young people aged 16-24 is currently being delivered via the cross border Peace IV funded Peace4Youth Programme.\n\nThe Programme will target 7,400 14-24 olds who are disadvantaged, excluded or marginalised; have deep social and emotional needs; and are at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour, violence or paramilitary/dissident activity.\n\nTo date around 4,500 young people have completed their Peace4Youth Programmes.","answerHtml":"My Department has responsibility for the United Youth Commitment under the Executive’s ‘Together: Building a United Community’ strategy. This commitment of 10,000 places for young people aged 16-24 is currently being delivered via the cross border Peace IV funded Peace4Youth Programme.
The Programme will target 7,400 14-24 olds who are disadvantaged, excluded or marginalised; have deep social and emotional needs; and are at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour, violence or paramilitary/dissident activity.
To date around 4,500 young people have completed their Peace4Youth Programmes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209684%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314430","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314430"}},{"id":"314429","reference":"AQW 9683/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-04","answerBy":"2020-11-19","answered":"2020-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what her Department is doing to fulfil the Executive's commitment to building a united and shared society through the Together: Building a United Community strategy.","answerText":"While my Department does not directly lead the delivery of Together: Building a United Community actions, I recognise that we have an important supporting role to play in building a united and shared society and am committed to doing so.\n\nExamples of this include our work in support of the Urban Villages Programme through specific projects such as the Colin Connect Transport Hub and also through our contribution through planning policies to the development of shared spaces that can be used and enjoyed by all. Our public transport system is also crucial in helping people and communities connect with each other and with employment and other opportunities.\n\nTogether with other departments, we also have an important role to play in helping rid communities of unwanted flags, emblems and other displays that can cause division. In this regard, the Justice Minister and I have jointly written to the First and deputy First Ministers asking sight of the Commission on Flags, Identity, Culture and Tradition (FICT) report. I remain committed to working collectively with Executive colleagues towards a sustainable solution in this area.","answerHtml":"While my Department does not directly lead the delivery of Together: Building a United Community actions, I recognise that we have an important supporting role to play in building a united and shared society and am committed to doing so.
Examples of this include our work in support of the Urban Villages Programme through specific projects such as the Colin Connect Transport Hub and also through our contribution through planning policies to the development of shared spaces that can be used and enjoyed by all. Our public transport system is also crucial in helping people and communities connect with each other and with employment and other opportunities.
Together with other departments, we also have an important role to play in helping rid communities of unwanted flags, emblems and other displays that can cause division. In this regard, the Justice Minister and I have jointly written to the First and deputy First Ministers asking sight of the Commission on Flags, Identity, Culture and Tradition (FICT) report. I remain committed to working collectively with Executive colleagues towards a sustainable solution in this area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209683%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314429","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314429"}},{"id":"314207","reference":"AQW 9581/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-03","answerBy":"2020-11-18","answered":"2020-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail what his Department is doing to fulfil the Executive's commitment to building a united and shared society through the Together: Building a United Community strategy.","answerText":"My Department actively contributes to the implementation of the Executive’s Together: Building a United Community (T:BUC) strategy in the following ways:\n\nSupport for the delivery by the Education Authority (EA) of the T:BUC Camps programme on behalf of The Executive Office - a headline action under the strategy’s key priority “Our Children and Young People” and the Planned Interventions programme. T:BUC Camps aim to support positive attitudinal change towards people from different backgrounds; support contact & friendships between young people from different backgrounds; support better understanding and respect for cultural differences, and, through planned interventions, support youth work activity to divert young people from anti-social and potentially criminal behaviour.\n\nDelivery of the Shared Education Campuses (SEC) headline action to commence 10 new shared education campuses. This provides capital assistance to applicant schools to facilitate shared education through Shared Education Facilities; Enhanced Education Facilities, and Shared Education Campuses. There are currently a number of Shared Education Campus Projects in development. Three projects are proceeding with approved Business Cases.\n\nMy Department has a statutory duty to encourage, facilitate and promote Shared Education, underpinned by the Sharing Works policy, and is currently developing proposals for a long term sustainable strategy for the mainstreaming of Shared Education across the wider education sector for my consideration.\n\nMy Department’s Community Relations, Equality and Diversity (CRED) policy also aims to ensure that young people develop self-respect and respect for others.\n\nThe Tackling Paramilitarism Programme, delivered in collaboration with the EA, the Tackling Paramilitarism Programme Team and other stakeholders is also led by my Department and is one action in the Executive’s Tackling Paramilitarism strategy (A4 – to prevent young people being drawn into paramilitary activity and promote lawfulness).","answerHtml":"My Department actively contributes to the implementation of the Executive’s Together: Building a United Community (T:BUC) strategy in the following ways:
Support for the delivery by the Education Authority (EA) of the T:BUC Camps programme on behalf of The Executive Office - a headline action under the strategy’s key priority “Our Children and Young People” and the Planned Interventions programme. T:BUC Camps aim to support positive attitudinal change towards people from different backgrounds; support contact & friendships between young people from different backgrounds; support better understanding and respect for cultural differences, and, through planned interventions, support youth work activity to divert young people from anti-social and potentially criminal behaviour.
Delivery of the Shared Education Campuses (SEC) headline action to commence 10 new shared education campuses. This provides capital assistance to applicant schools to facilitate shared education through Shared Education Facilities; Enhanced Education Facilities, and Shared Education Campuses. There are currently a number of Shared Education Campus Projects in development. Three projects are proceeding with approved Business Cases.
My Department has a statutory duty to encourage, facilitate and promote Shared Education, underpinned by the Sharing Works policy, and is currently developing proposals for a long term sustainable strategy for the mainstreaming of Shared Education across the wider education sector for my consideration.
My Department’s Community Relations, Equality and Diversity (CRED) policy also aims to ensure that young people develop self-respect and respect for others.
The Tackling Paramilitarism Programme, delivered in collaboration with the EA, the Tackling Paramilitarism Programme Team and other stakeholders is also led by my Department and is one action in the Executive’s Tackling Paramilitarism strategy (A4 – to prevent young people being drawn into paramilitary activity and promote lawfulness).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209581%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314207","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314207"}},{"id":"314206","reference":"AQW 9580/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-03","answerBy":"2020-11-18","answered":"2020-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what specific advice his Department has sought and received from the Public Health Agency and the Health and Safety Executive regarding post-primary test day arrangements for the upcoming Post-Primary Transfer Consortium.","answerText":"The conduct of the tests, including any specific health and safety arrangements in relation to the tests, are the responsibility of the test providers and host schools rather than my Department.\n\nI do however consider the health and safety of pupils taking the tests to be of paramount importance and I have written to both test providers asking to be kept informed of all of the appropriate safety measures being put in place to reduce the risk of COVID 19 in line with guidance from my Department and the wider medical and public health requirements. I have also highlighted the importance of providing timely and clear guidance to parents and children in advance of the tests.","answerHtml":"The conduct of the tests, including any specific health and safety arrangements in relation to the tests, are the responsibility of the test providers and host schools rather than my Department.
I do however consider the health and safety of pupils taking the tests to be of paramount importance and I have written to both test providers asking to be kept informed of all of the appropriate safety measures being put in place to reduce the risk of COVID 19 in line with guidance from my Department and the wider medical and public health requirements. I have also highlighted the importance of providing timely and clear guidance to parents and children in advance of the tests.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209580%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314206","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314206"}},{"id":"314205","reference":"AQW 9579/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-03","answerBy":"2020-11-18","answered":"2020-11-12","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 reform of building regulations to include Changing Places toilets in all future plans for public buildings.","answerText":"Officials in my Department’s Building Standards Branch are finalising research to inform the work of a technical sub-committee of the local Building Regulations Advisory Committee that is currently being established to scope out proposals for wider stakeholder consultation. Christine McClements, the mother of a child with severe disabilities, who has extensive knowledge as a Civil Engineer and user of Changing Places Toilets, has already agreed to join the sub-committee. We are seeking other members with the relevant expertise from representative organisations and industry. Draft proposals could be agreed and ready for wider consultation sometime in the spring of 2021.","answerHtml":"Officials in my Department’s Building Standards Branch are finalising research to inform the work of a technical sub-committee of the local Building Regulations Advisory Committee that is currently being established to scope out proposals for wider stakeholder consultation. Christine McClements, the mother of a child with severe disabilities, who has extensive knowledge as a Civil Engineer and user of Changing Places Toilets, has already agreed to join the sub-committee. We are seeking other members with the relevant expertise from representative organisations and industry. Draft proposals could be agreed and ready for wider consultation sometime in the spring of 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209579%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314205","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314205"}},{"id":"314204","reference":"AQW 9578/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-03","answerBy":"2020-11-18","answered":"2020-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for a breakdown of the number and type of organisations and individuals in each constituency who (i) applied; and (ii) were successful, for the Arts grant launched on 26 October 2020.","answerText":"On 26 October I announced a further release of £15.75m from the £29m package for arts, language, culture and heritage sectors; £7.75m of which has been made available to arts organisations through a third round of the Organisation Emergency Programme. This programme, the Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations, opened to applications on 28 October. The closing date for applications is noon on Friday 27 November. The Arts Council aim to communicate decisions by the end of January 2021 and so the information requested in not known at this point.","answerHtml":"On 26 October I announced a further release of £15.75m from the £29m package for arts, language, culture and heritage sectors; £7.75m of which has been made available to arts organisations through a third round of the Organisation Emergency Programme. This programme, the Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations, opened to applications on 28 October. The closing date for applications is noon on Friday 27 November. The Arts Council aim to communicate decisions by the end of January 2021 and so the information requested in not known at this point.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209578%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314204","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314204"}},{"id":"314203","reference":"AQW 9577/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-03","answerBy":"2020-11-18","answered":"2020-11-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she has had discussions with her counterparts in Westminster to extend the Minimum Income Floor suspension for 6 months, in line with the new Winter Economic Plan.","answerText":"After careful consideration of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and to ensure support is continued for the self-employed, I have decided that the current easement of the suspension of the Minimum Income Floor in Universal Credit that was due to expire on 12 November 2020 will be extended to 30 April 2021.\n\nRegulations to give effect to this extension will be made prior to 12 November 2020.","answerHtml":"After careful consideration of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and to ensure support is continued for the self-employed, I have decided that the current easement of the suspension of the Minimum Income Floor in Universal Credit that was due to expire on 12 November 2020 will be extended to 30 April 2021.
Regulations to give effect to this extension will be made prior to 12 November 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209577%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314203","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314203"}},{"id":"313881","reference":"AQW 9465/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-02","answerBy":"2020-11-10","answered":"2020-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what discussions her officials have had with Westminster officials to examine whether the Carer's Allowance is delivering necessary support for carers; and whether there will be a COVID-19 payment made to carers.","answerText":"In April 2020, my Department introduced two important temporary measures to help unpaid carers through the current COVID-19 emergency to ensure people most in need get the help and support they require:\n\nUnpaid carers are able to continue to claim Carer’s Allowance if they have a temporary break in caring, because either they or the person they care for becomes infected with coronavirus or has to self-isolate because of it.\n\nProviding “emotional support” to a severely disabled person will also count towards the Carer’s Allowance threshold of 35 hours of care a week.\n\nMy officials are in regular contact with all stakeholders as the coronavirus emergency progresses and we are continuing to look at how best to support people during this unprecedented time. We have extended the temporary easements in Carer’s Allowance until 12 May 2021.\n\nCarers in receipt of Universal Credit will also be able to benefit from the increase in the standard allowance put in place in response to the COVID-19 pandemic (around £1000 a year).\n\nIn addition, those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance here may, depending on their circumstances, be eligible to access the range of other emergency financial support that my Department is providing during the COVID-19 crisis, including Discretionary Support.\n\nIn terms of providing longer term additional financial support for carers here, it is anticipated that this will be considered as part of the upcoming welfare mitigations review.","answerHtml":"In April 2020, my Department introduced two important temporary measures to help unpaid carers through the current COVID-19 emergency to ensure people most in need get the help and support they require:
Unpaid carers are able to continue to claim Carer’s Allowance if they have a temporary break in caring, because either they or the person they care for becomes infected with coronavirus or has to self-isolate because of it.
Providing “emotional support” to a severely disabled person will also count towards the Carer’s Allowance threshold of 35 hours of care a week.
My officials are in regular contact with all stakeholders as the coronavirus emergency progresses and we are continuing to look at how best to support people during this unprecedented time. We have extended the temporary easements in Carer’s Allowance until 12 May 2021.
Carers in receipt of Universal Credit will also be able to benefit from the increase in the standard allowance put in place in response to the COVID-19 pandemic (around £1000 a year).
In addition, those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance here may, depending on their circumstances, be eligible to access the range of other emergency financial support that my Department is providing during the COVID-19 crisis, including Discretionary Support.
In terms of providing longer term additional financial support for carers here, it is anticipated that this will be considered as part of the upcoming welfare mitigations review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209465%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=313881","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=313881"}},{"id":"313880","reference":"AQW 9464/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-02","answerBy":"2020-11-17","answered":"2020-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, given the long-term health impacts such chemicals have to the future fertility and increase in cancers in young people, what action he is taking to remove plastics and other items that have Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals from all schools, especially school canteens and any sanitary provisions.","answerText":"The operation of school meals kitchens and dining facilities is generally a matter for the Education Authority. Although not specifically focused on endocrine-disrupting chemicals, EA has considered measures which could help to reduce or remove single use plastics in their facilities.\n\nEA also initiated the Plastic Waste in Schools Competition, which encouraged pupils to audit, monitor, and analyse the differing types of plastic that come into their school environment, explore what their primary uses are, look at how plastics are managed and consider what happens to these plastics after use.\n\nWhile these measures may help in both health and environmental terms, school canteens are not the only sources of plastics. Ultimately the solution to this is one for wider society, which will require additional research into the long term effects of these materials and suitable alternatives.","answerHtml":"The operation of school meals kitchens and dining facilities is generally a matter for the Education Authority. Although not specifically focused on endocrine-disrupting chemicals, EA has considered measures which could help to reduce or remove single use plastics in their facilities.
EA also initiated the Plastic Waste in Schools Competition, which encouraged pupils to audit, monitor, and analyse the differing types of plastic that come into their school environment, explore what their primary uses are, look at how plastics are managed and consider what happens to these plastics after use.
While these measures may help in both health and environmental terms, school canteens are not the only sources of plastics. Ultimately the solution to this is one for wider society, which will require additional research into the long term effects of these materials and suitable alternatives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209464%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=313880","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=313880"}},{"id":"313879","reference":"AQW 9463/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-02","answerBy":"2020-11-17","answered":"2020-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she intends to review how welfare benefits are assessed; and whether she will consider bringing the process back into public sector control where her Department will be able to audit and manage performance.","answerText":"An independent evaluation of the performance of both the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Assessment Services and the Medical Support Services contracts in delivering health assessments for welfare benefits will be completed by the end of the year. Any enhancements identified through this evaluation will be considered for the future delivery of health assessments.\n\nAdditionally, a business case is under development to appraise all options for the delivery of health assessments from August 2023, including in-housing the service.\n\nMy Department manages a programme of monthly, quarterly and annual reviews of the current performance against defined service levels for both contracts. Officials also carry out an independent audit of completed health assessments to provide assurance on both quality and procedural accuracy.","answerHtml":"An independent evaluation of the performance of both the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Assessment Services and the Medical Support Services contracts in delivering health assessments for welfare benefits will be completed by the end of the year. Any enhancements identified through this evaluation will be considered for the future delivery of health assessments.
Additionally, a business case is under development to appraise all options for the delivery of health assessments from August 2023, including in-housing the service.
My Department manages a programme of monthly, quarterly and annual reviews of the current performance against defined service levels for both contracts. Officials also carry out an independent audit of completed health assessments to provide assurance on both quality and procedural accuracy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209463%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=313879","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=313879"}},{"id":"313878","reference":"AQW 9462/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-02","answerBy":"2020-11-17","answered":"2020-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will include a review of Carers' Allowance in the review of Welfare Mitigations, with a view to increasing the allowance and amending entry criteria to allow carers who are in employment the ability to access support.","answerText":"My Department is not yet in a position to provide details of the specific issues that will be covered in the forthcoming review of welfare mitigations. However, I expect that the review will consider the current levels of financial support currently available to carers in the social security system.","answerHtml":"My Department is not yet in a position to provide details of the specific issues that will be covered in the forthcoming review of welfare mitigations. However, I expect that the review will consider the current levels of financial support currently available to carers in the social security system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209462%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=313878","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=313878"}},{"id":"313877","reference":"AQW 9461/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-02","answerBy":"2020-11-17","answered":"2020-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will follow the Scottish Government's approach by moving away from Personal Independence Payment assessments to a new Adult Disability Payment.","answerText":"The Department’s existing contract with Capita for PIP Assessments is due to expire on 31 July 2021. An independent evaluation of the performance of the PIP Assessment Service is currently being undertaken. The purpose of this work is to identify potential service enhancements and to inform the future direction of the service.","answerHtml":"The Department’s existing contract with Capita for PIP Assessments is due to expire on 31 July 2021. An independent evaluation of the performance of the PIP Assessment Service is currently being undertaken. The purpose of this work is to identify potential service enhancements and to inform the future direction of the service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209461%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=313877","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=313877"}},{"id":"313135","reference":"AQW 9271/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-22","answerBy":"2020-11-06","answered":"2020-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for a breakdown of the number of people who have the housing benefit element of Universal Credit paid directly to their landlord, in each year from 2017.","answerText":"The member can find detailed official statistics on Universal Credit, including information on housing payments publically available on my Department's website at:\n\nhttps://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/universal-credit-statistics-may-2020\n\nThe Universal Credit statistics supplementary tables 3a to 3d contain information related to housing within households and a breakdown between social and rented sector.","answerHtml":"The member can find detailed official statistics on Universal Credit, including information on housing payments publically available on my Department's website at:
https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/universal-credit-statistics-may-2020
The Universal Credit statistics supplementary tables 3a to 3d contain information related to housing within households and a breakdown between social and rented sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209271%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=313135","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=313135"}},{"id":"313134","reference":"AQW 9270/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-22","answerBy":"2020-11-06","answered":"2020-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what discussions she has had with the Department for Work and Pensions on extending the £1,000 Universal Credit standard allowance uplift beyond March 2021.","answerText":"As part of my Department’s strategy of supporting people affected by Covid-19 and the dramatic effect it is having on the economy and peoples’ employment, the standard allowance of Universal Credit (and working tax credit) has been increased for this financial year by £1,040 per year (£20 a week). This is in addition to the annual uprating of 1.7%. This means that for a single Universal Credit claimant aged 25 or over, the standard allowance will increase from £317.82 to £409.89 per month. This is the first increase in benefit entitlement in 5 years.\n\nI continue to keep this matter and other developments across Universal Credit under review.","answerHtml":"As part of my Department’s strategy of supporting people affected by Covid-19 and the dramatic effect it is having on the economy and peoples’ employment, the standard allowance of Universal Credit (and working tax credit) has been increased for this financial year by £1,040 per year (£20 a week). This is in addition to the annual uprating of 1.7%. This means that for a single Universal Credit claimant aged 25 or over, the standard allowance will increase from £317.82 to £409.89 per month. This is the first increase in benefit entitlement in 5 years.
I continue to keep this matter and other developments across Universal Credit under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209270%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=313134","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=313134"}},{"id":"313133","reference":"AQW 9269/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-22","answerBy":"2020-11-06","answered":"2020-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the training that front line Universal Credit workers undergo; and how often it is refreshed.","answerText":"My Department is committed to providing a supportive and informative service. Those delivering Universal Credit undergo a comprehensive programme of learning and development designed to equip them with the tools, skills and behaviours required to provide a high quality, responsive service to all, including the vulnerable and those with complex needs.\n\nFollowing 5-weeks of classroom based training for Work Coaches and 3-weeks classroom based training for Case Managers, staff undergo a number of weeks’ consolidation to assure their understanding and level of knowledge.\n\nEach of the Jobs & Benefits office’s Work Coach teams are also supported by a Work Psychologist to improve their capability to better support people with a health condition or disability.\n\nIn addition to training, those delivering the Universal Credit service have access to an electronic database of guidance, Deskaids and Spotlights on specific topics.\n\nUniversal Credit training is reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure it is refreshed or updated to align with any changes to policy and/or processes.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to providing a supportive and informative service. Those delivering Universal Credit undergo a comprehensive programme of learning and development designed to equip them with the tools, skills and behaviours required to provide a high quality, responsive service to all, including the vulnerable and those with complex needs.
Following 5-weeks of classroom based training for Work Coaches and 3-weeks classroom based training for Case Managers, staff undergo a number of weeks’ consolidation to assure their understanding and level of knowledge.
Each of the Jobs & Benefits office’s Work Coach teams are also supported by a Work Psychologist to improve their capability to better support people with a health condition or disability.
In addition to training, those delivering the Universal Credit service have access to an electronic database of guidance, Deskaids and Spotlights on specific topics.
Universal Credit training is reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure it is refreshed or updated to align with any changes to policy and/or processes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209269%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=313133","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=313133"}},{"id":"313132","reference":"AQW 9268/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-22","answerBy":"2020-11-06","answered":"2020-12-15","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 review of welfare mitigations.","answerText":"I can confirm that draft proposals for the review of the welfare mitigation schemes are well advanced. I will make an announcement in the near future","answerHtml":"I can confirm that draft proposals for the review of the welfare mitigation schemes are well advanced. I will make an announcement in the near future
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209268%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=313132","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=313132"}},{"id":"313250","reference":"AQO 1053/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-22","answerBy":"2020-11-10","answered":"2020-11-10","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 the work of the Executive Sub-committee on Reform following the RHI Inquiry, on the implementation of the Renewable Heat Incentive Inquiry report recommendations.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Murphy (The Minister of Finance)","text":"In line with the NDNA commitment, the Executive subcommittee on reform was established to consider the recommendations of the RHI report in full and to oversee their implementation. The subcommittee met for the first time in July 2020 and was scheduled to meet again on 5 November. That meeting was postponed and will be rearranged in the coming weeks. The report's recommendations have been brigaded under seven key themes, and at the next meeting the subcommittee will hear from each theme lead. The leads will outline the significant work that has already been done and present for approval an action plan detailing the work ahead. The Executive subcommittee plans to bring a full report on the actions taken and proposed for each recommendation to the full Executive and Assembly before the Christmas recess."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Can the Minister provide an update on the independent panel set up to examine the role of civil servants in the RHI scheme, and on the independent panel that is to be established to investigate breaches of the ministerial code?"},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"With regard to the panel's work to look into the disciplinary process, some of those cases have been concluded, some have been stayed, either due to legal action or ill health, and some are ongoing, with their time frames to be confirmed. I am limited in what I can say about that process because there is ongoing litigation that seeks to challenge it. As I said, four cases have been heard and concluded, four have been stayed, either due to legal action or ill health, and two are ongoing. Legal correspondence has been received in respect of one of those cases. Therefore, as I said, I am very limited in what I can say in relation to them. Nonetheless, I would like to see them concluded as quickly as possible. I hope that whatever legal issues are involved are resolved as quickly as possible to bring this chapter to a close."},{"speaker":"Mr McGuigan","text":"Can the Minister provide an update on the RHI scheme itself as per commitments in the New Decade, New Approach agreement?"},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"There was a commitment to bring the RHI scheme to a close. Of course, that is the responsibility of the Department for the Economy. I know that the Minister for the Economy has brought discussion of the issue to the Executive on a number of occasions. Like, I am sure, many other Ministers, I share an ambition to see the scheme closed. Of course, there are outstanding issues to be addressed as a consequence of that, and I look forward to hearing the Economy Minister's propositions for them."},{"speaker":"Dr Aiken","text":"I thank the Minister for his answers so far. Can he update the House on whether the delay in the founding of the RHI committee and its work has led to the delay in recruitment to senior positions, such as head of the Civil Service? I understand that, at the moment, we are also still waiting for new permanent secretaries to be appointed or to go through the process for Justice, Education and Economy."},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"No, there is no relationship between the two issues at all."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Toole","text":"Further to his answers about the Executive subcommittee and panel meetings, can the Minister confirm whether any discussion or consideration has been given to underpinning any of the reforms in legislation? Thus far, the Executive are insistent that reforms should go through via codes and guidance. Can the Minister also tell the House whether any members of his party referred themselves to the Commissioner for Standards in relation to business assistance schemes?"},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"First, it is not a matter of the Executive's being insistent: the work informing the RHI subcommittee was conducted by the five parties over a long period, in which the Member's party was a participant. The recommendations that the Executive and their subcommittee are following through come from that area of work, in which the Member's party was a participant. If the Member is advocating a different approach with regard to legislation now, that is a departure from what his party had agreed all along on the matter. I have no idea whether anyone has been referred, or has referred themselves, to the Commissioner for Standards."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201053%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=313250","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-11-10&docID=314294#AQO%201053/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=313250"}},{"id":"315415","reference":"AQO 1052/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-22","answerBy":"2020-11-09","answered":"2020-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what level of COVID-19-related individual absence or school closures would activate centre assessed grades for examinations in 2021.","answerText":"It is sensible to plan for 2021 examinations taking place, and I have agreed a wide range of adaptations to GCSEs and A levels to reduce assessment burden. CCEA is now working at pace and engaging with schools to develop contingency arrangements to deal with a range of potential public health scenarios in the event that there is further significant disruption as the year progresses.","answerHtml":"It is sensible to plan for 2021 examinations taking place, and I have agreed a wide range of adaptations to GCSEs and A levels to reduce assessment burden. CCEA is now working at pace and engaging with schools to develop contingency arrangements to deal with a range of potential public health scenarios in the event that there is further significant disruption as the year progresses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201052%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315415","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315415"}},{"id":"312750","reference":"AQW 9072/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-20","answerBy":"2020-11-04","answered":"2020-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s policy for viewing and moving homes due to the impact of COVID-19.","answerText":"The Housing Executive continues to work with its contractors and prospective tenants to re-let its homes as quickly as possible while at all times adhering to the Health Protection Coronavirus Restrictions and government guidance. Its aim is to ensure that applicants on the waiting list, particularly households who are statutory homeless, can commence their new tenancies and move into their new home as soon as possible. The primary consideration within these arrangements is to continue to minimise any potential risk to customers, staff and contractors.\n\nMeasures have been put in place to enable housing assessment and allocation processes to be completed online or over the telephone.\n\nHousing Executive policy is that viewings should be facilitated as normal, whenever possible, during the Coronavirus emergency. Staff have been asked to exercise due care when organising and facilitating viewings and to adhere strictly to the applicable Public Health Agency (PHA) guidance and any local risk assessments. Where accompanied viewings are not possible, guidance has been issued to local offices allowing the discretion to find alternate solutions to ensure that customers are given an opportunity to view the property e.g. virtual viewings, opening dwellings at a pre-arranged time or providing keys to allow the customer access.\n\nThe Housing Executive’s policy is that PHA guidance is followed at all times e.g. avoiding unnecessary contacts, adhering to social distancing guidelines and through the use of PPE where relevant.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive continues to work with its contractors and prospective tenants to re-let its homes as quickly as possible while at all times adhering to the Health Protection Coronavirus Restrictions and government guidance. Its aim is to ensure that applicants on the waiting list, particularly households who are statutory homeless, can commence their new tenancies and move into their new home as soon as possible. The primary consideration within these arrangements is to continue to minimise any potential risk to customers, staff and contractors.
Measures have been put in place to enable housing assessment and allocation processes to be completed online or over the telephone.
Housing Executive policy is that viewings should be facilitated as normal, whenever possible, during the Coronavirus emergency. Staff have been asked to exercise due care when organising and facilitating viewings and to adhere strictly to the applicable Public Health Agency (PHA) guidance and any local risk assessments. Where accompanied viewings are not possible, guidance has been issued to local offices allowing the discretion to find alternate solutions to ensure that customers are given an opportunity to view the property e.g. virtual viewings, opening dwellings at a pre-arranged time or providing keys to allow the customer access.
The Housing Executive’s policy is that PHA guidance is followed at all times e.g. avoiding unnecessary contacts, adhering to social distancing guidelines and through the use of PPE where relevant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209072%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=312750","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=312750"}},{"id":"312168","reference":"AQW 8815/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-15","answerBy":"2020-10-30","answered":"2020-10-27","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 she will review her Department’s business skills and training criteria to ensure small and medium sized enterprises and self-employed enterprises with under 10 employees can access all courses, including digital skill set development.","answerText":"My Department and associated Arm’s Length Bodies provide a wide range of programmes specifically tailored to meet the needs of small and medium sized enterprises, including enterprises with fewer than ten employees. A summary of these schemes is set out in the table below.\n\nProgramme\tDescription\nSkills Focus\tUpskilling for employees, including those who are furloughed. Available to SMEs, (fewer than 250 employees) and now fully funded by the Department. The programme has an annual budget of £1.5m.\nInnovate Us\tFully funded programme offering free training to small businesses, including Social Enterprises, with fewer than 50 employees, delivering up to 60 hours of bespoke training and skills development support per project. The programme has an annual budget of £1.7m.\nAssured Skills\tIs a short, demand-led, pre-employment training programme, which is fully funded by the Department, to upskill individuals and help them compete for guaranteed job vacancies in new Foreign Direct Investment companies and expanding businesses. The programme has an annual budget of £2.3m\nBridge to Employment\tOpen to business of all sizes looking to expand. It provides customised training to participants, in particular long term unemployed people, with the skills necessary to compete for new employment opportunities on an equal basis with others. The programme has an annual budget of £280K.\nApprenticeshipNI and Higher level Apprenticeships (HLA’S)\tDfE funds the cost of off-the-job training for apprentices aged 16-24 on the ApprenticeshipsNI programme as well as 50% for off-the-job training for apprentices aged 25 years and over in the priority economic areas. HLA’s are open to participants of all ages, without restriction. The Department spends approximately £26m per annum on its Apprenticeship programmes.\nCovid-19 Skills Interventions\tTo assist those employees who had been furloughed, made redundant, or in receipt of support for the self-employed, to develop skills and qualifications, in order to gain, sustain or progress in employment. To date over £6m has been invested in these programmes.\nInvest Northern Ireland Skills Interventions\tTypically take the form of a grant that can be used to access relevant training and/or upskilling. Over the last three years Invest NI has made 640 separate skills offers, of which 525 (82%) were made to SMEs. The grant value of the offers to those SMEs was £15.41m.","answerHtml":"My Department and associated Arm’s Length Bodies provide a wide range of programmes specifically tailored to meet the needs of small and medium sized enterprises, including enterprises with fewer than ten employees. A summary of these schemes is set out in the table below.
| Programme | Description |
| Skills Focus | Upskilling for employees, including those who are furloughed. Available to SMEs, (fewer than 250 employees) and now fully funded by the Department. The programme has an annual budget of £1.5m. |
| Innovate Us | Fully funded programme offering free training to small businesses, including Social Enterprises, with fewer than 50 employees, delivering up to 60 hours of bespoke training and skills development support per project. The programme has an annual budget of £1.7m. |
| Assured Skills | Is a short, demand-led, pre-employment training programme, which is fully funded by the Department, to upskill individuals and help them compete for guaranteed job vacancies in new Foreign Direct Investment companies and expanding businesses. The programme has an annual budget of £2.3m |
| Bridge to Employment | Open to business of all sizes looking to expand. It provides customised training to participants, in particular long term unemployed people, with the skills necessary to compete for new employment opportunities on an equal basis with others. The programme has an annual budget of £280K. |
| ApprenticeshipNI and Higher level Apprenticeships (HLA’S) | DfE funds the cost of off-the-job training for apprentices aged 16-24 on the ApprenticeshipsNI programme as well as 50% for off-the-job training for apprentices aged 25 years and over in the priority economic areas. HLA’s are open to participants of all ages, without restriction. The Department spends approximately £26m per annum on its Apprenticeship programmes. |
| Covid-19 Skills Interventions | To assist those employees who had been furloughed, made redundant, or in receipt of support for the self-employed, to develop skills and qualifications, in order to gain, sustain or progress in employment. To date over £6m has been invested in these programmes. |
| Invest Northern Ireland Skills Interventions | Typically take the form of a grant that can be used to access relevant training and/or upskilling. Over the last three years Invest NI has made 640 separate skills offers, of which 525 (82%) were made to SMEs. The grant value of the offers to those SMEs was £15.41m. |
My officials have been working with the sports Governing Bodies to establish the extent of the financial impact of the pandemic and the potential future implications given the latest restrictions.
I have submitted a bid to the Executive seeking a financial support package for the sector. If this bid is successful, my officials will work with SportNI to design a needs based scheme, in line with Managing Public Money.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208814%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=312167","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=312167"}},{"id":"312166","reference":"AQW 8813/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-15","answerBy":"2020-10-30","answered":"2020-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) what his Department is doing to address the increasing high street vacancy rates; (ii) what discussions he is having with councils; and (iii) whether he will bring forward a vacancy strategy.","answerText":"My Department continues to provide significant support to town centres through our ongoing programme of physical regeneration interventions which have been in place for many years. These include Public Realm and Environmental Improvement schemes and the Revitalisation programme which has received additional funds to provide targeted support to traders in the current Covid-19 pandemic. In addition to my Department's work to help address the increasing high street vacancy rates, the Department of Finance has confirmed that, for this financial year, to help minimise the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on our business sector and to help reduce the number of empty properties, the Executive has provided an unprecedented £300M plus in rates support packages for businesses here in the form of a 12 months rates holiday.\n\nMy Department engages with councils on a continual basis in relation to physical regeneration schemes and this is particularly evident in the approach taken to deliver the current Covid-19 Revitalisation programme.\n\nVacancies in town centres and any strategy to address them cuts across many Departments and it is likely that this will be an issue considered by the Executive Office led High Streets Task Force.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to provide significant support to town centres through our ongoing programme of physical regeneration interventions which have been in place for many years. These include Public Realm and Environmental Improvement schemes and the Revitalisation programme which has received additional funds to provide targeted support to traders in the current Covid-19 pandemic. In addition to my Department's work to help address the increasing high street vacancy rates, the Department of Finance has confirmed that, for this financial year, to help minimise the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on our business sector and to help reduce the number of empty properties, the Executive has provided an unprecedented £300M plus in rates support packages for businesses here in the form of a 12 months rates holiday.
My Department engages with councils on a continual basis in relation to physical regeneration schemes and this is particularly evident in the approach taken to deliver the current Covid-19 Revitalisation programme.
Vacancies in town centres and any strategy to address them cuts across many Departments and it is likely that this will be an issue considered by the Executive Office led High Streets Task Force.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208813%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=312166","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=312166"}},{"id":"312165","reference":"AQW 8812/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-15","answerBy":"2020-10-30","answered":"2020-11-09","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 High Streets Taskforce; and when the membership of that group will be confirmed.","answerText":"An inter-departmental group of officials is currently examining best practice in other jurisdictions, and engaging with stakeholders.\n\nIt is clear that our town and city centres face a range of economic and social challenges. Whilst the Covid-19 pandemic has undoubtedly exacerbated the situation, many of the challenges are long-standing; stemming from the financial crisis of 2009, prolonged underinvestment in infrastructure, and changing patterns of consumer behaviour.\n\nThis calls for a strategic, sustained response, with Departments and local government working in partnership to deliver a vision for sustainable town and city centres, as thriving sustainable hubs for the retail, services, hospitality and residential sectors.\n\nOur aim is to bring a proposal to the Executive for discussion in the near future.","answerHtml":"An inter-departmental group of officials is currently examining best practice in other jurisdictions, and engaging with stakeholders.
It is clear that our town and city centres face a range of economic and social challenges. Whilst the Covid-19 pandemic has undoubtedly exacerbated the situation, many of the challenges are long-standing; stemming from the financial crisis of 2009, prolonged underinvestment in infrastructure, and changing patterns of consumer behaviour.
This calls for a strategic, sustained response, with Departments and local government working in partnership to deliver a vision for sustainable town and city centres, as thriving sustainable hubs for the retail, services, hospitality and residential sectors.
Our aim is to bring a proposal to the Executive for discussion in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208812%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=312165","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=312165"}},{"id":"315158","reference":"AQO 1021/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-15","answerBy":"2020-11-03","answered":"2020-11-04","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 provision of a Test and Trace Support Payment for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"On 25 March Minister Hargey responded swiftly to the pandemic by introducing a non-repayable Discretionary Support COVID-19 living expenses grant where a person or a member of their immediate family is diagnosed with COVID-19 or is advised to self-isolate in accordance with guidance published by the Regional Agency for Public Health and Social Well-being. This grant is unique to the North and was made available nearly 8 months ahead of the other devolved administrations.\n\nI have considered the detail of the self-isolation grant in England, Scotland and Wales and am content that a further package of financial support for people on a low income who have to self-isolate is not required at this time. The financial support we are providing here will not end in January unlike the support provided by the Self-Isolation Support Grant in England, Scotland and Wales.\n\nIn addition, unlike the fixed Test and Trace Support Payment, a Discretionary Support COVID-19 living expenses grant award will include a specific amount for any dependent children in the household and can be made for periods of more than 14 days regardless of circumstances. This means that it is possible for individual awards to exceed £500, making this a more supportive intervention for the lowest paid workers than the Self-Isolation Support Grant.","answerHtml":"On 25 March Minister Hargey responded swiftly to the pandemic by introducing a non-repayable Discretionary Support COVID-19 living expenses grant where a person or a member of their immediate family is diagnosed with COVID-19 or is advised to self-isolate in accordance with guidance published by the Regional Agency for Public Health and Social Well-being. This grant is unique to the North and was made available nearly 8 months ahead of the other devolved administrations.
I have considered the detail of the self-isolation grant in England, Scotland and Wales and am content that a further package of financial support for people on a low income who have to self-isolate is not required at this time. The financial support we are providing here will not end in January unlike the support provided by the Self-Isolation Support Grant in England, Scotland and Wales.
In addition, unlike the fixed Test and Trace Support Payment, a Discretionary Support COVID-19 living expenses grant award will include a specific amount for any dependent children in the household and can be made for periods of more than 14 days regardless of circumstances. This means that it is possible for individual awards to exceed £500, making this a more supportive intervention for the lowest paid workers than the Self-Isolation Support Grant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201021%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315158","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315158"}},{"id":"315197","reference":"AQO 1005/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-15","answerBy":"2020-11-03","answered":"2020-11-04","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 what work his Department is undertaking to prevent delays to live animals at border controls becoming an animal welfare issue.","answerText":"The welfare of animals is a priority for my Department. DAERA’s Veterinary Service Animal Health Group (VSAHG) takes the welfare of animals very seriously and will safeguard animal welfare at points of entry to Northern Ireland now and in the future.\n\nVSAHG’s Portal Branch is experienced in the control of animal movements through Northern Ireland’s ports and airports. There is a dedicated livestock inspection facility in Larne port which provides a round-the-clock service to ensure that animal health and welfare standards are protected. My staff in Portal Branch monitor the welfare of animals moving through the port as part of their normal duties and take action when non-compliance is detected.\n\nTo ensure that inspections at all points of entry can be delivered efficiently and with as little delay as possible, the Department is recruiting additional vets and animal health and welfare inspectors; installing new equipment including electronic tag readers to speed up the animal inspection process; and will clearly communicate process requirements to stakeholders.\n\nLive animal inspections will be prioritised to minimize delays. When increased numbers of live animal movements are anticipated managers will ensure that adequate resource is available to carry out the necessary checks in a timely way.","answerHtml":"The welfare of animals is a priority for my Department. DAERA’s Veterinary Service Animal Health Group (VSAHG) takes the welfare of animals very seriously and will safeguard animal welfare at points of entry to Northern Ireland now and in the future.
VSAHG’s Portal Branch is experienced in the control of animal movements through Northern Ireland’s ports and airports. There is a dedicated livestock inspection facility in Larne port which provides a round-the-clock service to ensure that animal health and welfare standards are protected. My staff in Portal Branch monitor the welfare of animals moving through the port as part of their normal duties and take action when non-compliance is detected.
To ensure that inspections at all points of entry can be delivered efficiently and with as little delay as possible, the Department is recruiting additional vets and animal health and welfare inspectors; installing new equipment including electronic tag readers to speed up the animal inspection process; and will clearly communicate process requirements to stakeholders.
Live animal inspections will be prioritised to minimize delays. When increased numbers of live animal movements are anticipated managers will ensure that adequate resource is available to carry out the necessary checks in a timely way.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201005%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315197","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315197"}},{"id":"315123","reference":"AQO 990/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-15","answerBy":"2020-11-02","answered":"2020-11-02","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 planned provisions in the Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill relating to human trafficking and modern slavery.","answerText":"I plan to make two minor amendments to the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015, through the Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill.\n\nThe first amendment will remove the statutory requirement to publish an annual strategy, moving instead to a three year strategy; and the second will extend the provision of assistance and support to potential victims of slavery, servitude, and forced or compulsory labour.\n\nThe consultation on the proposed amendments closed on 1 September, with respondents supportive of both.\n\nThe Justice Committee noted the results of the consultation on 8 October, and on 23 October I wrote to advise Executive colleagues that I plan to include both amendments in the forthcoming Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill.","answerHtml":"I plan to make two minor amendments to the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015, through the Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill.
The first amendment will remove the statutory requirement to publish an annual strategy, moving instead to a three year strategy; and the second will extend the provision of assistance and support to potential victims of slavery, servitude, and forced or compulsory labour.
The consultation on the proposed amendments closed on 1 September, with respondents supportive of both.
The Justice Committee noted the results of the consultation on 8 October, and on 23 October I wrote to advise Executive colleagues that I plan to include both amendments in the forthcoming Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20990%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315123"}},{"id":"317367","reference":"AQO 974/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-15","answerBy":"2020-11-02","answered":"2020-11-16","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 work of the Historical Institutional Abuse Interim Advocate.","answerText":"Since the Interim Advocate took up his post in August 2019 he has played an important role in promoting the interests of victims and survivors.\n\nHis work has included putting forward the views of victims and survivors on improvements to the legislation and advising on procedures for the Redress Board.\n\nThe Office of the Interim Advocate has dealt with numerous enquiries, including over 400 regarding the redress scheme since its launch. The Personal Support Unit established by the Interim Advocate continues to provide help to victims and survivors.\n\nRecently the Interim Advocate has facilitated discussions with victims’ and survivors’ groups on all aspects of an apology. He submitted a report on this on 16 October and met with us on 20 October to discuss. He has stressed the importance of a wholehearted apology dealing with acknowledgement, responsibility, recognition, and repair. Officials have also been meeting SAVIA to discuss the apology. All of this work has taken account of the experience of other jurisdictions and international best practice. We will consider the views of all victims and survivors and we will make decisions soon.\n\nThe Interim Advocate has also worked with victims’ groups and officials on the development of future HIA Support Services. We are pleased to say that TEO is taking urgent steps to introduce further services. Additional support is available from Monday 2 November to meet pressing and immediate needs, and we are intending that the HIA Support Service will launch on 1 December.","answerHtml":"Since the Interim Advocate took up his post in August 2019 he has played an important role in promoting the interests of victims and survivors.
His work has included putting forward the views of victims and survivors on improvements to the legislation and advising on procedures for the Redress Board.
The Office of the Interim Advocate has dealt with numerous enquiries, including over 400 regarding the redress scheme since its launch. The Personal Support Unit established by the Interim Advocate continues to provide help to victims and survivors.
Recently the Interim Advocate has facilitated discussions with victims’ and survivors’ groups on all aspects of an apology. He submitted a report on this on 16 October and met with us on 20 October to discuss. He has stressed the importance of a wholehearted apology dealing with acknowledgement, responsibility, recognition, and repair. Officials have also been meeting SAVIA to discuss the apology. All of this work has taken account of the experience of other jurisdictions and international best practice. We will consider the views of all victims and survivors and we will make decisions soon.
The Interim Advocate has also worked with victims’ groups and officials on the development of future HIA Support Services. We are pleased to say that TEO is taking urgent steps to introduce further services. Additional support is available from Monday 2 November to meet pressing and immediate needs, and we are intending that the HIA Support Service will launch on 1 December.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20974%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317367","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317367"}},{"id":"311825","reference":"AQW 8657/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-13","answerBy":"2020-10-28","answered":"2020-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what support will be provided to people who lose their job but do not receive assistance from the Government’s new Job Support Scheme.","answerText":"My Department is committed to supporting people at this difficult time and a series of changes have been put in place to ensure that the social security system is more flexible, to relieve hardship and to ensure people most in need get the help and support they require.\n\nThose on low incomes or out of work can get support by applying for Universal Credit. Claims can be made online and a step by step guide on how to make a claim is available on the Department’s website at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/communities/dfc-universal-credit-step-by-step-guide.pdf.\n\nAnyone currently in receipt of Tax Credits should read the information on www.gov.uk/working-tax-credit/further-information before making a claim to Universal Credit.\n\nA person considering making a claim for benefit can access the ‘entitled to’ benefit calculator to get an estimate of how much Universal Credit they may be entitled to https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/benefits-adviser\n\nImmediate financial support is available for anyone struggling financially while waiting for their first payment of Universal Credit by applying through their online account for a repayable advance payment of up to 100% of their estimated entitlement. In addition, and in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Universal Credit standard allowance increased for everyone by £86.67 a month from 6 April 2020 for one year.\n\nPeople making a claim to Universal Credit can also apply for a non-repayable grant from the Universal Credit Contingency Fund through the Discretionary Support Scheme. An online application form can be found at:\n\nwww.nidirect.gov.uk/publications/discretionary-support-form. Further details on the Discretionary Support Scheme can be found at:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/extra-financial-support.\n\nIf a person satisfies the National Insurance Contributions (NICs) criteria, they may also be able to apply for New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance. Details, including access to an on-line form, can be found at:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/jobseekers-allowance","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to supporting people at this difficult time and a series of changes have been put in place to ensure that the social security system is more flexible, to relieve hardship and to ensure people most in need get the help and support they require.
Those on low incomes or out of work can get support by applying for Universal Credit. Claims can be made online and a step by step guide on how to make a claim is available on the Department’s website at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/communities/dfc-universal-credit-step-by-step-guide.pdf.
Anyone currently in receipt of Tax Credits should read the information on www.gov.uk/working-tax-credit/further-information before making a claim to Universal Credit.
A person considering making a claim for benefit can access the ‘entitled to’ benefit calculator to get an estimate of how much Universal Credit they may be entitled to https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/benefits-adviser
Immediate financial support is available for anyone struggling financially while waiting for their first payment of Universal Credit by applying through their online account for a repayable advance payment of up to 100% of their estimated entitlement. In addition, and in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Universal Credit standard allowance increased for everyone by £86.67 a month from 6 April 2020 for one year.
People making a claim to Universal Credit can also apply for a non-repayable grant from the Universal Credit Contingency Fund through the Discretionary Support Scheme. An online application form can be found at:
www.nidirect.gov.uk/publications/discretionary-support-form. Further details on the Discretionary Support Scheme can be found at:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/extra-financial-support.
If a person satisfies the National Insurance Contributions (NICs) criteria, they may also be able to apply for New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance. Details, including access to an on-line form, can be found at:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/jobseekers-allowance
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208657%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311825","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311825"}},{"id":"311824","reference":"AQW 8656/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-13","answerBy":"2020-10-28","answered":"2020-11-12","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 Barnett consequentials of circa £30 million per year until 2040 for renewable heat, as outlined by the Chancellor, will be available to new projects from 1 April 2020; or (ii) whether the money will be returned to Treasury if it is not committed to projects, or to schemes that it was allocated to under the Northern Ireland Renewable Heat Initiative, are subsequently closed.","answerText":"The NDNA includes a commitment that, “RHI will be closed down and replaced by a scheme that effectively cuts carbon emissions”. I will bring forward a new scheme in due course. Any new scheme will be introduced in line with the new Northern Ireland Energy strategy, as part of an overall framework to support the pathway to net zero carbon.\n\nFunds for the RHI scheme are drawn down from the AME budget as required. Where funds are not drawn down, they will be retained by HM Treasury.","answerHtml":"The NDNA includes a commitment that, “RHI will be closed down and replaced by a scheme that effectively cuts carbon emissions”. I will bring forward a new scheme in due course. Any new scheme will be introduced in line with the new Northern Ireland Energy strategy, as part of an overall framework to support the pathway to net zero carbon.
Funds for the RHI scheme are drawn down from the AME budget as required. Where funds are not drawn down, they will be retained by HM Treasury.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208656%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311824","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311824"}},{"id":"311361","reference":"AQW 8492/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-09","answerBy":"2020-10-26","answered":"2020-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what work has been done with local councils to take forward their request for a guarantee from government that rates paid to councils will be based on the estimated figure agreed as part of the rate setting process for this financial year and the next two financial years.","answerText":"I have had a number of representations about this matter from individual Councils, SOLACE, and the Committee for Communities, and following consideration I am not minded to provide this guarantee. As I continue to review the emerging situation my position remains unchanged.\n\nI have already put together a number of measures to benefit and protect Councils’ non-domestic rates bases. This has included the rates holiday support package for business worth £313 million, the full cost of which is borne by the Executive and therefore protects Councils’ income this year, and an emergency package of funding for Councils worth £20 million. It addition, the Executive has invested in an extensive range of schemes aimed at limiting the damage that the pandemic will cause to the economy. This support will help to reduce the number of business failures that result and, therefore, help to protect the rates revenue which Councils rely upon.\n\nThe focus for my officials now is on working in collaboration with counterparts in the local Councils to review and build on the well-established model for rate forecasting to take account of the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on the property tax base, to support a robust rate striking process for the 2021/22 rating year.","answerHtml":"I have had a number of representations about this matter from individual Councils, SOLACE, and the Committee for Communities, and following consideration I am not minded to provide this guarantee. As I continue to review the emerging situation my position remains unchanged.
I have already put together a number of measures to benefit and protect Councils’ non-domestic rates bases. This has included the rates holiday support package for business worth £313 million, the full cost of which is borne by the Executive and therefore protects Councils’ income this year, and an emergency package of funding for Councils worth £20 million. It addition, the Executive has invested in an extensive range of schemes aimed at limiting the damage that the pandemic will cause to the economy. This support will help to reduce the number of business failures that result and, therefore, help to protect the rates revenue which Councils rely upon.
The focus for my officials now is on working in collaboration with counterparts in the local Councils to review and build on the well-established model for rate forecasting to take account of the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on the property tax base, to support a robust rate striking process for the 2021/22 rating year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208492%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311361","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311361"}},{"id":"311360","reference":"AQW 8491/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-09","answerBy":"2020-10-26","answered":"2020-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what communication he has had with local councils to extend the timeframe for setting the rate for 2021/22 to align with the regional rate setting process.","answerText":"My officials have already started to engage with counterparts in Local Government Finance Division within the Department for Communities to consider the options around adjusting the date by which the 2021/22 district rates must be set. There is currently a statutory deadline of 15th February in each year, but I am open to providing greater flexibility for Councils in light of the challenges that face us all in the year ahead due to the pandemic.\n\nThe rate setting process for the regional rate is a distinct process and is linked with the wider Budget set by the Executive. I do, however, see a great deal of value in the district rate and regional rate processes being broadly aligned both in terms of timing and in terms of their combined effect on businesses and households. In particular, I am very keen to preserve the savings provided by the Executive to businesses through last year’s Executive Budget which reduced the non-domestic regional rate by 18%. The strong message from business that there needed to be a reduction in the poundage rate was a headline finding from last year’s Business Rate Review and I am determined that we collectively act to bring that about.","answerHtml":"My officials have already started to engage with counterparts in Local Government Finance Division within the Department for Communities to consider the options around adjusting the date by which the 2021/22 district rates must be set. There is currently a statutory deadline of 15th February in each year, but I am open to providing greater flexibility for Councils in light of the challenges that face us all in the year ahead due to the pandemic.
The rate setting process for the regional rate is a distinct process and is linked with the wider Budget set by the Executive. I do, however, see a great deal of value in the district rate and regional rate processes being broadly aligned both in terms of timing and in terms of their combined effect on businesses and households. In particular, I am very keen to preserve the savings provided by the Executive to businesses through last year’s Executive Budget which reduced the non-domestic regional rate by 18%. The strong message from business that there needed to be a reduction in the poundage rate was a headline finding from last year’s Business Rate Review and I am determined that we collectively act to bring that about.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208491%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311360","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311360"}},{"id":"311359","reference":"AQW 8490/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-09","answerBy":"2020-10-26","answered":"2020-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what work has been done by Land and Property Services with local councils to develop a robust rate forecasting model in order to assess potential loss of rates income in future years as a result of the economic impact of COVID-19.","answerText":"Land & Property Services (LPS) already has a well-established annual rate forecasting methodology in place. This has been developed in collaboration with District Councils and builds upon the lessons learnt from the last recession over a decade ago.\n\nThe methodology includes a detailed analysis of the next year’s estimated revenue gains from growth in the Council’s property tax base and the corresponding potential revenue losses arising from vacant property and bad debt write-off. This is based on LPS data trends and local knowledge from Councils on planning and building control profiles and details of possible business closures and vacancies.\n\nThis year, both LPS and Council efforts have been jointly focussed on assessing the impacts of Covid-19 on next year’s Council funding by undertaking additional and more frequent modelling, and scenario framing of the potential Council revenue losses as the economic impacts of the pandemic continue to emerge and be understood.\n\nFollowing the savings delivered to businesses from the non-domestic regional rate cut announced in the Executive’s 2020/21 Budget, I am keen that the wider impact of the pandemic, and district rate decisions taken on foot of that backdrop, doesn’t result in a rate hike at District Council level in 2021/22 which would undo that saving for business. To that end, my officials are working with counterparts in the Department for Communities to look at options to provide Councils with both greater flexibilities and options in relation to the setting of rates in the post-Covid-19 landscape.","answerHtml":"Land & Property Services (LPS) already has a well-established annual rate forecasting methodology in place. This has been developed in collaboration with District Councils and builds upon the lessons learnt from the last recession over a decade ago.
The methodology includes a detailed analysis of the next year’s estimated revenue gains from growth in the Council’s property tax base and the corresponding potential revenue losses arising from vacant property and bad debt write-off. This is based on LPS data trends and local knowledge from Councils on planning and building control profiles and details of possible business closures and vacancies.
This year, both LPS and Council efforts have been jointly focussed on assessing the impacts of Covid-19 on next year’s Council funding by undertaking additional and more frequent modelling, and scenario framing of the potential Council revenue losses as the economic impacts of the pandemic continue to emerge and be understood.
Following the savings delivered to businesses from the non-domestic regional rate cut announced in the Executive’s 2020/21 Budget, I am keen that the wider impact of the pandemic, and district rate decisions taken on foot of that backdrop, doesn’t result in a rate hike at District Council level in 2021/22 which would undo that saving for business. To that end, my officials are working with counterparts in the Department for Communities to look at options to provide Councils with both greater flexibilities and options in relation to the setting of rates in the post-Covid-19 landscape.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208490%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311359","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311359"}},{"id":"311358","reference":"AQW 8489/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-09","answerBy":"2020-10-26","answered":"2020-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what action is being taken to ensure GP surgeries are properly resourced to provide smear tests in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Cervical Screening Programme was paused from mid-March until 29 June 2020.\n\nOn 19 June 2020, the Public Health Agency (PHA) wrote to all GP practices in Northern Ireland to advise that there would be a restoration of the Cervical Screening Programme. This was to follow a phased, prioritised approach in order to ensure that the service was not overwhelmed and was restarted in a controlled manner.\n\nFollowing this staged restart, the invitations to participate in the programme are now being sent out at a pre-pause level. The PHA are monitoring the service including any contingency that would be required if COVID-19 numbers increase significantly.\n\nGP practices have access to up to date guidance on COVID-19 infection prevention and control and can order any required supplies of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for those who are performing smear tests from the Business Services Organisation. Contact details for the relevant team at the PHA have also been provided to GP practices should they have any queries regarding the cervical screening programme.\n\nIt is vitally important that anyone who is experiencing any of the symptoms associated with early stage cervical cancer should contact their doctor rather than waiting for a screening test.","answerHtml":"As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Cervical Screening Programme was paused from mid-March until 29 June 2020.
On 19 June 2020, the Public Health Agency (PHA) wrote to all GP practices in Northern Ireland to advise that there would be a restoration of the Cervical Screening Programme. This was to follow a phased, prioritised approach in order to ensure that the service was not overwhelmed and was restarted in a controlled manner.
Following this staged restart, the invitations to participate in the programme are now being sent out at a pre-pause level. The PHA are monitoring the service including any contingency that would be required if COVID-19 numbers increase significantly.
GP practices have access to up to date guidance on COVID-19 infection prevention and control and can order any required supplies of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for those who are performing smear tests from the Business Services Organisation. Contact details for the relevant team at the PHA have also been provided to GP practices should they have any queries regarding the cervical screening programme.
It is vitally important that anyone who is experiencing any of the symptoms associated with early stage cervical cancer should contact their doctor rather than waiting for a screening test.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208489%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311358","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311358"}},{"id":"311357","reference":"AQW 8488/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-09","answerBy":"2020-10-26","answered":"2020-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what Barnett consequentials are available as a result of the Kickstart programme in the UK; and how much of the allocation has been allocated to her Department to support the Communities Jobstart programme due to commence in November 2020.","answerText":"Following the British Chancellor’s update the Executive received Barnett consequential of £6.116m of Resource DEL in 2020/21 for New Jobs for Young People. It is for the Executive to decide how this is allocated.\n\nMy Department bid for £4.8m for Labour Market Inventions in 2020/21 but to date has received no Executive allocation. My Department is now seeking to manage this pressure internally through reprioritising and reallocating funding. A further bid will be considered as part of January Monitoring for any pressure remaining to 31 March 2021.","answerHtml":"Following the British Chancellor’s update the Executive received Barnett consequential of £6.116m of Resource DEL in 2020/21 for New Jobs for Young People. It is for the Executive to decide how this is allocated.
My Department bid for £4.8m for Labour Market Inventions in 2020/21 but to date has received no Executive allocation. My Department is now seeking to manage this pressure internally through reprioritising and reallocating funding. A further bid will be considered as part of January Monitoring for any pressure remaining to 31 March 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208488%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311357"}},{"id":"311039","reference":"AQW 8328/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-07","answerBy":"2020-10-22","answered":"2020-11-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQO 93/17-22, whether there has been any progress recruiting staff and capacity building at the Regional Fertility Centre to enable three cycles of IVF to be provided in line with the New Decade, New Approach commitment.","answerText":"I announced, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, my plans to establish a Project Board to take forward the welcome New Decade, New Approach commitment to increasing the number of publicly-funded IVF cycles. However, although membership of the Project Board has been determined, progress has been temporarily delayed due to the ongoing COVID-19 response.","answerHtml":"I announced, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, my plans to establish a Project Board to take forward the welcome New Decade, New Approach commitment to increasing the number of publicly-funded IVF cycles. However, although membership of the Project Board has been determined, progress has been temporarily delayed due to the ongoing COVID-19 response.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208328%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311039","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311039"}},{"id":"311038","reference":"AQW 8327/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-07","answerBy":"2020-10-22","answered":"2020-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how the Job Support Scheme will interact with childcare or other elements of Universal Credit.","answerText":"Entitlement to the childcare element of Universal Credit will not be affected by the Job Support Scheme.\n\nThe support which will be provided to employees who can return to work part-time under the Job Support Scheme will be taken into account in calculating the amount of Universal Credit. This is similar to the position for employees under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – commonly known as the furlough scheme - which is due to end on 31 October 2020.\n\nWork allowances are provided to those who are responsible for one or more children and/or have limited capability for work. For those with housing costs the work allowance is £287 per month and £503 per month for those without housing costs. Universal Credit is not reduced until earnings exceed these amounts and then by 63 pence in the pound.","answerHtml":"Entitlement to the childcare element of Universal Credit will not be affected by the Job Support Scheme.
The support which will be provided to employees who can return to work part-time under the Job Support Scheme will be taken into account in calculating the amount of Universal Credit. This is similar to the position for employees under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – commonly known as the furlough scheme - which is due to end on 31 October 2020.
Work allowances are provided to those who are responsible for one or more children and/or have limited capability for work. For those with housing costs the work allowance is £287 per month and £503 per month for those without housing costs. Universal Credit is not reduced until earnings exceed these amounts and then by 63 pence in the pound.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208327%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311038","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311038"}},{"id":"311037","reference":"AQW 8326/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-07","answerBy":"2020-10-22","answered":"2020-11-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when employees notified that they are being made redundant at the end of the furlough period should make an application for Universal Credit.","answerText":"My Department is committed to supporting people at this difficult time and my priority has been to ensure that the social security system remains flexible, to relieve hardship and to ensure those people most in need get the help and support they require. This remains the case for those who will be impacted by the end of the furlough scheme.\n\nAs Universal Credit is for people on a low income or no income and, subject to meeting the eligibility criteria, a person currently on furlough can apply for Universal Credit. Details on making a claim for Universal Credit including the eligibility criteria can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/you-claim-universal-credit.\n\nHowever, for anyone receiving Tax Credits I would advise that they should refer to https://www.gov.uk/tax-credits-calculator if they are considering making a claim to Universal Credit.\n\nPrior to making a claim a person can also check the ‘entitled to’ benefit calculator to get an estimate of how much they may be entitled to. https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/benefits-adviser","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to supporting people at this difficult time and my priority has been to ensure that the social security system remains flexible, to relieve hardship and to ensure those people most in need get the help and support they require. This remains the case for those who will be impacted by the end of the furlough scheme.
As Universal Credit is for people on a low income or no income and, subject to meeting the eligibility criteria, a person currently on furlough can apply for Universal Credit. Details on making a claim for Universal Credit including the eligibility criteria can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/you-claim-universal-credit.
However, for anyone receiving Tax Credits I would advise that they should refer to https://www.gov.uk/tax-credits-calculator if they are considering making a claim to Universal Credit.
Prior to making a claim a person can also check the ‘entitled to’ benefit calculator to get an estimate of how much they may be entitled to. https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/benefits-adviser
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208326%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311037","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311037"}},{"id":"311036","reference":"AQW 8325/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-07","answerBy":"2020-10-22","answered":"2020-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) what actions have been taken against each of the recommendations contained in the Independent Review of Integrated Education; and (ii) what recommendations will not be actioned.","answerText":"Recommendations 12, 15, 17, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28 of the Independent Review of Education have been actioned/ are in progress. The Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) is a participant in the Area Planning Structures established by DE; updated guidance for schools seeking to Transform to integrated status was published in December 2017; the Education Authority (EA) has established the Shared Education and Sectoral Support Team; the length of time a Transformed school can access support funding has increased from three to five years; Fresh Start capital funding has been provided for integrated and shared education schools; when a Development Proposal to grow is approved, minor works provides for temporary accommodation whilst planning is ongoing; current practice is to design schools to allow for future growth where a site permits, however construction in advance of need risks a nugatory spend of public money so is not considered good practice.\n\nRecommendations 2 and 22 are within the remit of the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) to take forward as it is charged with the promotion of integrated education and my Department does not promote any sector above another. Grant-maintained integrated schools are their own employing authorities and engagement has taken place with the EA about how they can access e.g. human resource advice.\n\nIt is my intention that a range of the recommendations should be considered within the wider review of education; I will be bringing forward proposals to the Executive on this in due course. These are recommendations 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 33, 37 and 38.\n\nI have agreed that recommendations 5, 18, 21, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35, 36 and 39 should not be taken forward at this time. Fresh start capital funding has specific and set parameters and NICIE has advised it does not consider the kitemark to be the most effective means of celebrating integrated success. The Education and Training Inspectorate self-evaluation framework and the policy position in Learning Leaders: Teacher Professional Learning are not intended to be sector specific.","answerHtml":"Recommendations 12, 15, 17, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28 of the Independent Review of Education have been actioned/ are in progress. The Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) is a participant in the Area Planning Structures established by DE; updated guidance for schools seeking to Transform to integrated status was published in December 2017; the Education Authority (EA) has established the Shared Education and Sectoral Support Team; the length of time a Transformed school can access support funding has increased from three to five years; Fresh Start capital funding has been provided for integrated and shared education schools; when a Development Proposal to grow is approved, minor works provides for temporary accommodation whilst planning is ongoing; current practice is to design schools to allow for future growth where a site permits, however construction in advance of need risks a nugatory spend of public money so is not considered good practice.
Recommendations 2 and 22 are within the remit of the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) to take forward as it is charged with the promotion of integrated education and my Department does not promote any sector above another. Grant-maintained integrated schools are their own employing authorities and engagement has taken place with the EA about how they can access e.g. human resource advice.
It is my intention that a range of the recommendations should be considered within the wider review of education; I will be bringing forward proposals to the Executive on this in due course. These are recommendations 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 33, 37 and 38.
I have agreed that recommendations 5, 18, 21, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35, 36 and 39 should not be taken forward at this time. Fresh start capital funding has specific and set parameters and NICIE has advised it does not consider the kitemark to be the most effective means of celebrating integrated success. The Education and Training Inspectorate self-evaluation framework and the policy position in Learning Leaders: Teacher Professional Learning are not intended to be sector specific.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208325%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311036","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311036"}},{"id":"312336","reference":"AQO 891/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-01","answerBy":"2020-10-13","answered":"2020-10-23","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 Strategic Investment Board's evaluation of the Social Supermarkets Pilot Programme.","answerText":"At the outset of the Social Supermarket Pilot programme the Strategic Investment Board were contracted to provide a rolling evaluation of the programme, including an OBA approach.\n\nThis has been informed by site visits, network meetings and the gathering of monthly monitoring data. In addition to this each Social Supermarket member completes an entry and exit questionnaire to track the impact of the intervention on individual Social Supermarket members.\n\nAnalysis of this information has now been completed up to 31st March 2020 and demonstrates the positive impact of the model and its potential to deliver against a range of Programme for Government outcomes. A summary of this information is available in a report card and I will undertake to share that with members.\n\nAs of the 31st of March 2020 in excess of one thousand individuals had accessed the service across the five pilot sites and the evaluation indicates that access to affordable food produce and wrap-around supports has helped to positively change the life circumstances of members and their families. Alongside evidence of increased financial security the support has increased resilience and self-efficacy.\n\nI believe the Social Supermarket model offers a sustainable, holistic approach to tackling food insecurity. As we continue to face restrictions and the consequences of the crisis they have an important role to play in supporting those facing food insecurity/food poverty.\n\nAs a result my officials are currently undertaking a business case to roll the model out. This will be informed by a co-design process with local Councils and other stakeholders over the coming months with a view to launch a full programme for the first of April 2021.\n\nIn the interim period support to the existing five pilots has been extended.","answerHtml":"At the outset of the Social Supermarket Pilot programme the Strategic Investment Board were contracted to provide a rolling evaluation of the programme, including an OBA approach.
This has been informed by site visits, network meetings and the gathering of monthly monitoring data. In addition to this each Social Supermarket member completes an entry and exit questionnaire to track the impact of the intervention on individual Social Supermarket members.
Analysis of this information has now been completed up to 31st March 2020 and demonstrates the positive impact of the model and its potential to deliver against a range of Programme for Government outcomes. A summary of this information is available in a report card and I will undertake to share that with members.
As of the 31st of March 2020 in excess of one thousand individuals had accessed the service across the five pilot sites and the evaluation indicates that access to affordable food produce and wrap-around supports has helped to positively change the life circumstances of members and their families. Alongside evidence of increased financial security the support has increased resilience and self-efficacy.
I believe the Social Supermarket model offers a sustainable, holistic approach to tackling food insecurity. As we continue to face restrictions and the consequences of the crisis they have an important role to play in supporting those facing food insecurity/food poverty.
As a result my officials are currently undertaking a business case to roll the model out. This will be informed by a co-design process with local Councils and other stakeholders over the coming months with a view to launch a full programme for the first of April 2021.
In the interim period support to the existing five pilots has been extended.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20891%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=312336","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=312336"}},{"id":"310052","reference":"AQW 7889/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-30","answerBy":"2020-10-15","answered":"2020-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education why clear face masks have not been provided to schools and for school transport staff where there are children who are deaf and need to see a teacher and classroom assistant’s face for communication or for children with learning disabilities.","answerText":"Clear face masks have not been provided to schools on the basis of public health guidance that face coverings are not recommended for children in Primary schools, whilst in post-primary schools face coverings are strongly recommended to be worn where adults and young people are moving about the school in corridors and confined communal areas (including toilets) where physical distancing is particularly difficult to maintain as set in the Department’s Education Restart guidance ( issued 29 September)\n\nThe EA advises that in relation to Classroom Assistants, face coverings are not required when working with a deaf child if they can adhere to social distancing. If the child uses a radio aid, this should be used to overcome the effect of distance. Alternatively, one meter distance and side to side working is acceptable.\n\nIf face coverings are worn, educational services are required to make reasonable adjustments to ensure deaf children are not disadvantaged.","answerHtml":"Clear face masks have not been provided to schools on the basis of public health guidance that face coverings are not recommended for children in Primary schools, whilst in post-primary schools face coverings are strongly recommended to be worn where adults and young people are moving about the school in corridors and confined communal areas (including toilets) where physical distancing is particularly difficult to maintain as set in the Department’s Education Restart guidance ( issued 29 September)
The EA advises that in relation to Classroom Assistants, face coverings are not required when working with a deaf child if they can adhere to social distancing. If the child uses a radio aid, this should be used to overcome the effect of distance. Alternatively, one meter distance and side to side working is acceptable.
If face coverings are worn, educational services are required to make reasonable adjustments to ensure deaf children are not disadvantaged.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207889%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=310052","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=310052"}},{"id":"310051","reference":"AQW 7888/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-30","answerBy":"2020-10-15","answered":"2020-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) what progress has been made to repair the areas highlighted in the Ards Peninsula Seawalls Condition and Repair Cost Report, HSU/657/02, published March 2018; and (ii) whether she will include in her bid for capital monies for 2021/22 additional investment to address the outstanding areas of seawalls and roads impacted by coastal erosion that have not yet been replaced.","answerText":"Since the publication of the Ards Peninsula Seawalls Condition and Repair Cost Report, my Department has invested £320,000 during the 2018/19 and 2019/20 financial years to provide repairs at:\n\nfifteen separate locations along the Portaferry Road;\n\nShore Road, Kircubbin;\n\nShore Road, Ballyhalbert; and\n\nSpringvale Road, Ballyhalbert.\n\nDuring the current financial year, work has commenced to provide repairs at:\n\ntwo locations on the Quintin Bay Road;\n\none location on the Kearney Road; and\n\nthree locations on the Loughshore Road, Portaferry.\n\nWork is also scheduled to commence shortly at Shore Road, Kircubbin. The estimated costs of these schemes is around £180k.\n\nI will be engaging with my Executive colleagues on the forthcoming Budget process; when I have certainty on the funding available to me, I will consider future programmes to properly maintain the road network and this will include investment to address the outstanding areas of seawalls and roads impacted by coastal erosion that have not yet been replaced.","answerHtml":"Since the publication of the Ards Peninsula Seawalls Condition and Repair Cost Report, my Department has invested £320,000 during the 2018/19 and 2019/20 financial years to provide repairs at:
fifteen separate locations along the Portaferry Road;
Shore Road, Kircubbin;
Shore Road, Ballyhalbert; and
Springvale Road, Ballyhalbert.
During the current financial year, work has commenced to provide repairs at:
two locations on the Quintin Bay Road;
one location on the Kearney Road; and
three locations on the Loughshore Road, Portaferry.
Work is also scheduled to commence shortly at Shore Road, Kircubbin. The estimated costs of these schemes is around £180k.
I will be engaging with my Executive colleagues on the forthcoming Budget process; when I have certainty on the funding available to me, I will consider future programmes to properly maintain the road network and this will include investment to address the outstanding areas of seawalls and roads impacted by coastal erosion that have not yet been replaced.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207888%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=310051","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=310051"}},{"id":"310050","reference":"AQW 7887/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-30","answerBy":"2020-10-15","answered":"2020-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) what communication there has been with the Ballyhalbert community regarding their request for a footpath between St Andrews development and High Street via Shore Road; and (ii) what alternatives have been considered to a footpath along this section of the Shore Road.","answerText":"My Department has received a number of requests for the provision of a footpath between St Andrews development and High Street, via Shore Road and has responded to those requests.\n\nA feasibility study was carried out to identify options for the potential provision of a footway link at this location and this established that the costs would be significant due to the need to make significant alterations to the existing coastal defences, carry out extensive road widening and acquire land to the frontage of properties. My Department is currently unable to progress a scheme at this location this year however I have asked officials to review and update the feasibility study and costings to see if a scheme might be able to be included in future programmes.\n\nIn the meantime improved traffic management measures have been provided at this location to enhance road safety. Measures include edge of carriageway and ‘SLOW’ road markings as well as advanced warning signage on each approach to alert drivers that there may be pedestrians on the road ahead.","answerHtml":"My Department has received a number of requests for the provision of a footpath between St Andrews development and High Street, via Shore Road and has responded to those requests.
A feasibility study was carried out to identify options for the potential provision of a footway link at this location and this established that the costs would be significant due to the need to make significant alterations to the existing coastal defences, carry out extensive road widening and acquire land to the frontage of properties. My Department is currently unable to progress a scheme at this location this year however I have asked officials to review and update the feasibility study and costings to see if a scheme might be able to be included in future programmes.
In the meantime improved traffic management measures have been provided at this location to enhance road safety. Measures include edge of carriageway and ‘SLOW’ road markings as well as advanced warning signage on each approach to alert drivers that there may be pedestrians on the road ahead.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207887%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=310050","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=310050"}},{"id":"310049","reference":"AQW 7886/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-30","answerBy":"2020-10-15","answered":"2020-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what impact the delay in the roll out of day care is having on carers of adults with learning disabilities.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) are coordinating the development of operational recovery plans across disability services to restart services in a regionally consistent and phased manner. Timescales within this phased restart are guided by the need to ensure the safety of service users, carers and staff and this means that services are currently not able to operate in the same way or to the same capacity as pre-COVID levels. Local issues such as the limitations of current estate and transport services are also having an impact on the rebuilding of services, as are staff absences.\n\nI am very aware of the effects the response to the first wave of COVID has had on those with caring responsibilities and I am concerned that carers will find it hard to manage with fewer supports and increased caring demands.\n\nTrusts are working hard to build capacity in services and find innovative solutions to meet the needs of individuals. My officials are continuing to monitor the progress Trusts are making closely. In addition, Trust keyworkers remain in contact with service users and carers in order to assess and prioritise requests for support and services and there is also engagement with Community and Voluntary sector partners to explore the potential for extending or expanding existing provision.\n\nService users, families and carers have been contacted by Trusts to support ongoing dialogue and make them aware that, although some services are restricted, the HSC remains ‘open for business’ and there are staff available to offer support and advice.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) are coordinating the development of operational recovery plans across disability services to restart services in a regionally consistent and phased manner. Timescales within this phased restart are guided by the need to ensure the safety of service users, carers and staff and this means that services are currently not able to operate in the same way or to the same capacity as pre-COVID levels. Local issues such as the limitations of current estate and transport services are also having an impact on the rebuilding of services, as are staff absences.
I am very aware of the effects the response to the first wave of COVID has had on those with caring responsibilities and I am concerned that carers will find it hard to manage with fewer supports and increased caring demands.
Trusts are working hard to build capacity in services and find innovative solutions to meet the needs of individuals. My officials are continuing to monitor the progress Trusts are making closely. In addition, Trust keyworkers remain in contact with service users and carers in order to assess and prioritise requests for support and services and there is also engagement with Community and Voluntary sector partners to explore the potential for extending or expanding existing provision.
Service users, families and carers have been contacted by Trusts to support ongoing dialogue and make them aware that, although some services are restricted, the HSC remains ‘open for business’ and there are staff available to offer support and advice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207886%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=310049","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=310049"}},{"id":"310048","reference":"AQW 7885/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-30","answerBy":"2020-10-15","answered":"2020-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when each Health and Social Care Trust will resume provision of pre-COVID-19 levels of respite and day care provision for adults with learning disabilities.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) are coordinating the development of operational recovery plans across disability services to restart services in a regionally consistent and phased manner. Timescales within this phased restart are guided by the need to ensure the safety of service users, carers and staff and this means that services are currently not able to operate in the same way or to the same capacity as pre-COVID levels. Local issues such as the limitations of current estate and transport services are also having an impact on the rebuilding of services, as are staff absences.\n\nI am very aware of the effects the response to the first wave of COVID has had on those with caring responsibilities and I am concerned that carers will find it hard to manage with fewer supports and increased caring demands.\n\nTrusts are working hard to build capacity in services and find innovative solutions to meet the needs of individuals. My officials are continuing to monitor the progress Trusts are making closely. In addition, Trust keyworkers remain in contact with service users and carers in order to assess and prioritise requests for support and services and there is also engagement with Community and Voluntary sector partners to explore the potential for extending or expanding existing provision.\n\nService users, families and carers have been contacted by Trusts to support ongoing dialogue and make them aware that, although some services are restricted, the HSC remains ‘open for business’ and there are staff available to offer support and advice.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) are coordinating the development of operational recovery plans across disability services to restart services in a regionally consistent and phased manner. Timescales within this phased restart are guided by the need to ensure the safety of service users, carers and staff and this means that services are currently not able to operate in the same way or to the same capacity as pre-COVID levels. Local issues such as the limitations of current estate and transport services are also having an impact on the rebuilding of services, as are staff absences.
I am very aware of the effects the response to the first wave of COVID has had on those with caring responsibilities and I am concerned that carers will find it hard to manage with fewer supports and increased caring demands.
Trusts are working hard to build capacity in services and find innovative solutions to meet the needs of individuals. My officials are continuing to monitor the progress Trusts are making closely. In addition, Trust keyworkers remain in contact with service users and carers in order to assess and prioritise requests for support and services and there is also engagement with Community and Voluntary sector partners to explore the potential for extending or expanding existing provision.
Service users, families and carers have been contacted by Trusts to support ongoing dialogue and make them aware that, although some services are restricted, the HSC remains ‘open for business’ and there are staff available to offer support and advice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207885%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=310048","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=310048"}},{"id":"309659","reference":"AQW 7696/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-28","answerBy":"2020-10-13","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether there are enough resources within her Department to deal with the next wave of applications to Universal Credit expected when furlough ends; and whether redundancy payments received during the assessment period will be taken into consideration when officers calculate Universal Credit benefit level.","answerText":"My Department has prioritised the payment of benefit to ensure that the Covid-19 crisis does not lengthen the time that any person, including those on Universal Credit has to wait to receive their benefit payment. Indeed, throughout the Covid-19 period over 98% of customers due a Universal Credit payment have received their payment on time.\n\nAs to the level of resources to manage any future increase in the number of applications to Universal Credit, I can advise that my Department always\n\nkeeps the level of resourcing under review.\n\nAs to the treatment of redundancy payments, Universal Credit is calculated using assessment periods and any earnings, income or capital received in a household during that assessment period will be taken into consideration when calculating a person(s) entitlement. Therefore, if a person where to receive a redundancy payment during their Universal Credit assessment period this would be considered as capital and would be included as part of the overall calculation of the level of their Universal Credit award.","answerHtml":"My Department has prioritised the payment of benefit to ensure that the Covid-19 crisis does not lengthen the time that any person, including those on Universal Credit has to wait to receive their benefit payment. Indeed, throughout the Covid-19 period over 98% of customers due a Universal Credit payment have received their payment on time.
As to the level of resources to manage any future increase in the number of applications to Universal Credit, I can advise that my Department always
keeps the level of resourcing under review.
As to the treatment of redundancy payments, Universal Credit is calculated using assessment periods and any earnings, income or capital received in a household during that assessment period will be taken into consideration when calculating a person(s) entitlement. Therefore, if a person where to receive a redundancy payment during their Universal Credit assessment period this would be considered as capital and would be included as part of the overall calculation of the level of their Universal Credit award.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207696%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=309659","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=309659"}},{"id":"309658","reference":"AQW 7695/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-28","answerBy":"2020-10-13","answered":"2020-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when she will roll out redundancy support resources into the community; and what role councils will have in this programme.","answerText":"The Department works with other departments and stakeholders to provide people facing redundancy with information and advice This service is often delivered in partnership with the local Councils\n\nThe service can be offered virtually and face to face, to provide the support that best meets the needs of both the employer and employees. On-site Redundancy Clinics can be arranged where social distancing requirements can be adhered to.\n\nA Redundancy Clinic Webcast has been developed to provide employees with information on benefits, supports and services available as they prepare for redundancy, including help with costs such as travel to interview expenses and help to search for and find a new job. This is readily available to any employer or anyone facing redundancy.","answerHtml":"The Department works with other departments and stakeholders to provide people facing redundancy with information and advice This service is often delivered in partnership with the local Councils
The service can be offered virtually and face to face, to provide the support that best meets the needs of both the employer and employees. On-site Redundancy Clinics can be arranged where social distancing requirements can be adhered to.
A Redundancy Clinic Webcast has been developed to provide employees with information on benefits, supports and services available as they prepare for redundancy, including help with costs such as travel to interview expenses and help to search for and find a new job. This is readily available to any employer or anyone facing redundancy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207695%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=309658","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=309658"}},{"id":"309657","reference":"AQW 7694/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-28","answerBy":"2020-10-13","answered":"2020-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how long she has had the draft report on the Housing Allocation scheme for review; and when the report will be published.","answerText":"A consultation on ‘A Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations’ ran from September to December 2017. The Consultation ended some time ago and the important issues raised by consultees need careful consideration and action.\n\nI received the report shortly after taking up the post as Minister for Communities in June. I am actively considering proposals raised by this Review and as you will be aware, I have already made my views known on the matter of intimidation points. The Review contains 19 other proposals which also require consideration. As you will understand, progress has been affected by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic during which I have updated Executive colleagues and the Communities Committee.\n\nI am keen to progress the Review by publishing a consultation report that not only details stakeholder views but that importantly provides a clear way forward and includes an implementation plan. I anticipate publication of the report later in the autumn.","answerHtml":"A consultation on ‘A Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations’ ran from September to December 2017. The Consultation ended some time ago and the important issues raised by consultees need careful consideration and action.
I received the report shortly after taking up the post as Minister for Communities in June. I am actively considering proposals raised by this Review and as you will be aware, I have already made my views known on the matter of intimidation points. The Review contains 19 other proposals which also require consideration. As you will understand, progress has been affected by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic during which I have updated Executive colleagues and the Communities Committee.
I am keen to progress the Review by publishing a consultation report that not only details stakeholder views but that importantly provides a clear way forward and includes an implementation plan. I anticipate publication of the report later in the autumn.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207694%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=309657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=309657"}},{"id":"309655","reference":"AQW 7692/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-28","answerBy":"2020-10-13","answered":"2020-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he intends to extend the mid-term break period at Halloween; and when this will be formally notified to all schools.","answerText":"My Department has no plans to amend or extend the agreed and published school holiday arrangements for the mid-term break.\n\nThe harmonised dates, agreed by the Education Authority and key stakeholders, take into account issues such as school transport and meal arrangements, are 29 and 30 October 2020. While these dates provide a basis from which to determine their mid-term calendar, schools have the discretion to set their own operational days and do not therefore need to adhere strictly to the dates set by the Authority.","answerHtml":"My Department has no plans to amend or extend the agreed and published school holiday arrangements for the mid-term break.
The harmonised dates, agreed by the Education Authority and key stakeholders, take into account issues such as school transport and meal arrangements, are 29 and 30 October 2020. While these dates provide a basis from which to determine their mid-term calendar, schools have the discretion to set their own operational days and do not therefore need to adhere strictly to the dates set by the Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207692%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=309655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=309655"}},{"id":"308645","reference":"AQW 7331/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-21","answerBy":"2020-09-24","answered":"2020-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for an explanation of the delays in the allocation of COVID-19-related underspends and Barnett consequentials.","answerText":"Following careful consideration of bids submitted by departments, I submitted an Executive paper for discussion at its 17 September 2020 meeting. Unfortunately the paper did not make the Executive’s agenda, however I am hopeful that it will be considered by the Executive this week (24 September).","answerHtml":"Following careful consideration of bids submitted by departments, I submitted an Executive paper for discussion at its 17 September 2020 meeting. Unfortunately the paper did not make the Executive’s agenda, however I am hopeful that it will be considered by the Executive this week (24 September).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207331%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=308645","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=308645"}},{"id":"308347","reference":"AQW 7196/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-18","answerBy":"2020-10-05","answered":"2020-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the different formats that are available for the instructions on at-home COVID-19 testing kits.","answerText":"All Home Test Kits used in Northern Ireland are provided through the National Testing Programme managed by the Department of Health and Social Services London (DHSC). The Home Test Kits are provided with instructions in English.\n\nDHSC has advised that instructions are also available for translation in the following languages by calling the 119 number.\n\nHindi\nSomali\nArabic\nCzech\nFrench\nKurdish\nPortuguese\nRomanian\n\nSlovak\nAmharic\nBengali\nGujarati\nJapanese\nLithuanian\nMandarin\nPashto\tPolish\nPunjabi\nSpanish\nTamil\nTigrinya\nUrdu\nPersian Iran","answerHtml":"All Home Test Kits used in Northern Ireland are provided through the National Testing Programme managed by the Department of Health and Social Services London (DHSC). The Home Test Kits are provided with instructions in English.
DHSC has advised that instructions are also available for translation in the following languages by calling the 119 number.
| Slovak Amharic Bengali Gujarati Japanese Lithuanian Mandarin Pashto | Polish Punjabi Spanish Tamil Tigrinya Urdu Persian Iran |
There are a number of measures in place to assist people who are blind/visually impaired when they attend either a test centre. These include:
Enhanced font size for all signage/instructions/cue cards
Disposable phones are available for use at Regional Test Sites and at Mobile Testing Units to ensure clear verbal communication
Customers at walk in sites are provided with one to one verbal instructions by site staff
Registration of test kits can be completed online at the time of booking.
Further support is available from the 119 helpline to complete this form if required.
Assistance dogs are permitted on all walk in sites.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207195%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=308346","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=308346"}},{"id":"308345","reference":"AQW 7194/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-18","answerBy":"2020-10-05","answered":"2020-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when the artificial eye clinic will restart.","answerText":"Due to the onset of the current COVID-19 pandemic all Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) outpatient appointments were cancelled with immediate effect on 19 March 2020. From that date, only emergency or clinically urgent consultations were permitted to take place.\n\nHowever, the regional Artificial Eye Service, which is based at the Shankill Wellbeing and Treatment Centre, has implemented an innovative drive-through service, in order to see patients that require urgent maintenance of their prosthesis. When the patient arrives staff take the prosthesis into the clinic facility for maintenance and, after work has been completed, return it to the patient who remains in their car throughout.\n\nBHSCT are currently carrying out a risk assessment and are planning to restart the Artificial Eye Service as soon as possible, with the aim of recommencing by the end of October 2020.","answerHtml":"Due to the onset of the current COVID-19 pandemic all Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) outpatient appointments were cancelled with immediate effect on 19 March 2020. From that date, only emergency or clinically urgent consultations were permitted to take place.
However, the regional Artificial Eye Service, which is based at the Shankill Wellbeing and Treatment Centre, has implemented an innovative drive-through service, in order to see patients that require urgent maintenance of their prosthesis. When the patient arrives staff take the prosthesis into the clinic facility for maintenance and, after work has been completed, return it to the patient who remains in their car throughout.
BHSCT are currently carrying out a risk assessment and are planning to restart the Artificial Eye Service as soon as possible, with the aim of recommencing by the end of October 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207194%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=308345","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=308345"}},{"id":"308080","reference":"AQW 7098/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-17","answerBy":"2020-10-02","answered":"2020-09-25","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 when the bowel cancer screening programme will restart.","answerText":"As a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic, the bowel cancer screening programme was paused from mid-March 2020. Restoration of all paused screening programmes is a priority for my Department.\n\nIn relation to bowel cancer screening, the immediate priority was to clear the backlog of patients waiting for diagnostic procedures (colonoscopy) following a positive screening test result. Consequently, Trusts recommenced colonoscopies from June and have made significant progress to date in clearing this backlog.\n\nRoutine bowel cancer screening invitations recommenced from the 17th of August through the issuing of testing kits.","answerHtml":"As a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic, the bowel cancer screening programme was paused from mid-March 2020. Restoration of all paused screening programmes is a priority for my Department.
In relation to bowel cancer screening, the immediate priority was to clear the backlog of patients waiting for diagnostic procedures (colonoscopy) following a positive screening test result. Consequently, Trusts recommenced colonoscopies from June and have made significant progress to date in clearing this backlog.
Routine bowel cancer screening invitations recommenced from the 17th of August through the issuing of testing kits.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207098%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=308080","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=308080"}},{"id":"307463","reference":"AQW 6740/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-11","answerBy":"2020-09-28","answered":"2020-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what guidance has been provided to (i) special schools; and (ii) all other schools to ensure clear face masks are used by teaching and other staff, including transport staff, to improve communication and reduce anxiety for children and young people.","answerText":"The Education Authority Sensory Service has advised that individual discussions/assessments should take place in schools, in partnership with individual children with hearing impairments and their families, to consider the impact of any decision to use face coverings in the classroom and communal areas of the school.\n\nThe Education Authority Teachers of the Deaf are available to provide support in order to mitigate the risks to the learning and communication needs of deaf children and young people.\n\nThere has been no specific guidance issued in relation to the use of clear masks in Special Schools; ordinary schools nor in relation to transport staff.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority Sensory Service has advised that individual discussions/assessments should take place in schools, in partnership with individual children with hearing impairments and their families, to consider the impact of any decision to use face coverings in the classroom and communal areas of the school.
The Education Authority Teachers of the Deaf are available to provide support in order to mitigate the risks to the learning and communication needs of deaf children and young people.
There has been no specific guidance issued in relation to the use of clear masks in Special Schools; ordinary schools nor in relation to transport staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206740%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307463","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307463"}},{"id":"307462","reference":"AQW 6739/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-11","answerBy":"2020-09-28","answered":"2020-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what actions he has taken to ensure children and young people who have hearing impairments are not being excluded through use of material face coverings.","answerText":"The Education Authority Sensory Service has advised that individual discussions/assessments should take place in schools, in partnership with individual children with hearing impairments and their families, to consider the impact of any decision to use face coverings in the classroom and communal areas of the school.\n\nThe Education Authority Teachers of the Deaf are available to provide support in order to mitigate the risks to the learning and communication needs of deaf children and young people.\n\nThere has been no specific guidance issued in relation to the use of clear masks in Special Schools; ordinary schools nor in relation to transport staff.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority Sensory Service has advised that individual discussions/assessments should take place in schools, in partnership with individual children with hearing impairments and their families, to consider the impact of any decision to use face coverings in the classroom and communal areas of the school.
The Education Authority Teachers of the Deaf are available to provide support in order to mitigate the risks to the learning and communication needs of deaf children and young people.
There has been no specific guidance issued in relation to the use of clear masks in Special Schools; ordinary schools nor in relation to transport staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206739%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307462","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307462"}},{"id":"307461","reference":"AQW 6738/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-11","answerBy":"2020-09-28","answered":"2020-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his Department’s plans to ensure a sustainable supply of clear face masks for health and social care services.","answerText":"Northern Ireland has also been allocated 8,640 clear masks as part of the UK Make pilot scheme (AQW6653/17-22 refers). If deemed successful further orders will follow with Northern Ireland benefitting proportionately.\n\nThe Business Services Organisation has commenced work to secure a supply of clear masks for the longer term. An expression of interest will be placed on the Dynamic Purchasing System in coming weeks.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland has also been allocated 8,640 clear masks as part of the UK Make pilot scheme (AQW6653/17-22 refers). If deemed successful further orders will follow with Northern Ireland benefitting proportionately.
The Business Services Organisation has commenced work to secure a supply of clear masks for the longer term. An expression of interest will be placed on the Dynamic Purchasing System in coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206738%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307461","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307461"}},{"id":"307235","reference":"AQW 6653/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-25","answered":"2020-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 5942/17-22, and further to the recent announcement from the Department of Health in Great Britain that 250,000 clear face masks have been procured for use in NHS Hospitals and that an allocation will be provided to Northern Ireland, to detail (i) when Northern Ireland will receive its allocation; (ii) how many masks will be received; (iii) and; (iv) which Health and Social Care services will have access to these masks.","answerText":"An initial allocation of 1,728 clear face masks have been received as part of the United Kingdom purchase and are currently undergoing final technical assessment. A further consignment is due shortly bringing the total to 8,640 masks. Work is being undertaken with physical and sensory disability teams across the HSC in NI and part of this work will be to ensure there is appropriate PPE provision for these priority areas going forward.","answerHtml":"An initial allocation of 1,728 clear face masks have been received as part of the United Kingdom purchase and are currently undergoing final technical assessment. A further consignment is due shortly bringing the total to 8,640 masks. Work is being undertaken with physical and sensory disability teams across the HSC in NI and part of this work will be to ensure there is appropriate PPE provision for these priority areas going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206653%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307235","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307235"}},{"id":"307234","reference":"AQW 6652/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-25","answered":"2020-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what consideration her Department is giving to change rules to allow people, living in terrace houses with narrow front gardens and off street parking spaces, to have a dropped kerb installed to allow them to charge their electric cars at home without having cabling across public footpaths.","answerText":"I recognise the importance of having modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure to provide confidence for users of Ultra Low Emission Vehicles and in respect of the connectivity improvements this would bring about. I am committed to exploring all options and new solutions to enhance our charge point infrastructure, improve lives and tackle the climate emergency.\n\nWhere a householder wishes to construct a new or altered access to facilitate charging of their electric vehicle, my Department can grant approval, under Article 80 of the Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993, for the construction of a ‘permitted means of access to a road’, in those circumstances where planning permission is not required.\n\nNormally, consent under Article 80 covers alterations to a footway or verge, including the lowering of kerbs, if applicable, to facilitate the construction of a new access, or alteration of an existing access, where the access / hard standing complies with ‘permitted development’ conditions onto a road, and where planning permission is not required. This applies to unclassified roads such as residential streets and rural roads with low traffic volumes.\n\nThe householder is responsible for bearing the costs of the works required. Full details of the consent process can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/publications/application-consent-construct-or-alter-vehicular-access","answerHtml":"I recognise the importance of having modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure to provide confidence for users of Ultra Low Emission Vehicles and in respect of the connectivity improvements this would bring about. I am committed to exploring all options and new solutions to enhance our charge point infrastructure, improve lives and tackle the climate emergency.
Where a householder wishes to construct a new or altered access to facilitate charging of their electric vehicle, my Department can grant approval, under Article 80 of the Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993, for the construction of a ‘permitted means of access to a road’, in those circumstances where planning permission is not required.
Normally, consent under Article 80 covers alterations to a footway or verge, including the lowering of kerbs, if applicable, to facilitate the construction of a new access, or alteration of an existing access, where the access / hard standing complies with ‘permitted development’ conditions onto a road, and where planning permission is not required. This applies to unclassified roads such as residential streets and rural roads with low traffic volumes.
The householder is responsible for bearing the costs of the works required. Full details of the consent process can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/publications/application-consent-construct-or-alter-vehicular-access
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206652%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307234","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307234"}},{"id":"307232","reference":"AQW 6650/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-25","answered":"2020-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what plans he has to increase educational psychologist capacity to deal with the backlog of children awaiting assessment to provide assistance where needed for children and young people whose mental health and wellbeing has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.","answerText":"The Education Authority’s (EA) Psychology Service completed a recruitment exercise in July 2020, successfully recruiting eight educational psychologists who have now joined the Service.\n\nTo address any future shortfall of suitably qualified educational psychologists within the EA’s workforce, I have recently approved a business case to increase the number of students on the Doctorate in Educational, Child and Adolescent Psychology course provided by Queen’s University, Belfast from six in 2018 to ten for the 2020/21 and 2021/22 academic years.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority’s (EA) Psychology Service completed a recruitment exercise in July 2020, successfully recruiting eight educational psychologists who have now joined the Service.
To address any future shortfall of suitably qualified educational psychologists within the EA’s workforce, I have recently approved a business case to increase the number of students on the Doctorate in Educational, Child and Adolescent Psychology course provided by Queen’s University, Belfast from six in 2018 to ten for the 2020/21 and 2021/22 academic years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206650%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307232","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307232"}},{"id":"307231","reference":"AQW 6649/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-25","answered":"2020-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for a copy of all reports confirming the outcomes achieved by Shared Education published or presented to his Ministerial Office over the past 5 years.","answerText":"The Shared Education Act (NI) 2016 requires the Department of Education to lay a report before the Assembly every two years on the operation of the Act and section 2(3) of the Education Act (NI) 2014. The report must include statements on the extent to which the purpose of Shared Education has been achieved.\n\nTo date, two reports have been laid:\n\nAdvancing Shared Education - Report to the Northern Ireland Assembly May 2018; and\n\nAdvancing Shared Education – Report to the Northern Ireland Assembly June 2020\n\nA copy of both reports can be accessed via the link https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/what-shared-education","answerHtml":"The Shared Education Act (NI) 2016 requires the Department of Education to lay a report before the Assembly every two years on the operation of the Act and section 2(3) of the Education Act (NI) 2014. The report must include statements on the extent to which the purpose of Shared Education has been achieved.
To date, two reports have been laid:
Advancing Shared Education - Report to the Northern Ireland Assembly May 2018; and
Advancing Shared Education – Report to the Northern Ireland Assembly June 2020
A copy of both reports can be accessed via the link https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/what-shared-education
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206649%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307231","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307231"}},{"id":"309219","reference":"AQO 718/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-22","answered":"2020-09-22","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 legislative programme for the remainder of the current Assembly mandate.","answerText":"In addition to the Domestic Abuse and Family Proceedings Bill, which is currently at Committee Stage in the Assembly, I intend to bring forward three definite Bills and one possible Bill to the Assembly during the remainder of this mandate.\n\nUpon the completion of pre-Introduction clearances and securing of the necessary Executive approvals, I plan to introduce a Criminal Justice (Committal Reform) Bill to the Assembly in October / November.\n\nThis will be followed by a Protection from Stalking Bill, drafting of which is at an advanced stage, in November / December.\n\nSubject to the analysis of responses to a consultation exercise that concluded on 14 August, this may be followed by a tightly focussed Personal Injury Discount Rate (“Damages”) Bill in January / February 2021.\n\nI then plan to bring forward a Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill in spring 2021 to legislate for a number of discrete policy areas that do not come within scope of the other Bills in the mandate.\n\nIntroduction of the Justice Bill in early 2021 will ensure that the Bill can complete its Assembly scrutiny and passage before the House rises in March 2022 for the next local elections.","answerHtml":"In addition to the Domestic Abuse and Family Proceedings Bill, which is currently at Committee Stage in the Assembly, I intend to bring forward three definite Bills and one possible Bill to the Assembly during the remainder of this mandate.
Upon the completion of pre-Introduction clearances and securing of the necessary Executive approvals, I plan to introduce a Criminal Justice (Committal Reform) Bill to the Assembly in October / November.
This will be followed by a Protection from Stalking Bill, drafting of which is at an advanced stage, in November / December.
Subject to the analysis of responses to a consultation exercise that concluded on 14 August, this may be followed by a tightly focussed Personal Injury Discount Rate (“Damages”) Bill in January / February 2021.
I then plan to bring forward a Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill in spring 2021 to legislate for a number of discrete policy areas that do not come within scope of the other Bills in the mandate.
Introduction of the Justice Bill in early 2021 will ensure that the Bill can complete its Assembly scrutiny and passage before the House rises in March 2022 for the next local elections.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20718%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=309219","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=309219"}},{"id":"308690","reference":"AQO 702/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-21","answered":"2020-09-22","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 her Department’s strategy for a recovery in the number of passengers using public transport.","answerText":"My Department and Translink’s response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 outbreak continues in line with Public Health Agency.\n\nI have approved changes to the bus and rail timetables across the North to allow Translink to build resilience into the network and add extra capacity above passenger demand to ensure social distancing can be maintained.\n\nYou will understand that the recovery of passenger numbers is dependent on social distancing restrictions required in respect of COVID-19. Whilst our public transport network can currently accommodate passenger demand, eventually passenger numbers will hit a ceiling, as social distancing requirements impact on the capacity of the network.\n\nWhilst my aim is to deliver a recovery from COVID-19 in a green, sustainable manner, our recovery must be focused on delivering the safest public transport for our passengers, in line with the latest public health guidance at the time.\n\nTo that end, my Department and Translink have implemented a wide range of measures to protect the public on our buses and trains, including the mandated use of face coverings, an enhanced cleaning regime and protections for staff and customers to minimise contact.\n\nAs we progress through this pandemic, my Department and Translink will be cognisant of any change in public health guidelines and we will increase capacity on our network when it is safe to do so.\n\nI have recently brought a paper to the Executive outlining the importance of infrastructure in our recovery to COVID-19 and this included the role of public transport. As we respond to COVID-19 within the Executive, I am clear that we must be considerate of the role our public transport can play in our recovery, as well as the impact that changes to guidelines can have on the network.","answerHtml":"My Department and Translink’s response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 outbreak continues in line with Public Health Agency.
I have approved changes to the bus and rail timetables across the North to allow Translink to build resilience into the network and add extra capacity above passenger demand to ensure social distancing can be maintained.
You will understand that the recovery of passenger numbers is dependent on social distancing restrictions required in respect of COVID-19. Whilst our public transport network can currently accommodate passenger demand, eventually passenger numbers will hit a ceiling, as social distancing requirements impact on the capacity of the network.
Whilst my aim is to deliver a recovery from COVID-19 in a green, sustainable manner, our recovery must be focused on delivering the safest public transport for our passengers, in line with the latest public health guidance at the time.
To that end, my Department and Translink have implemented a wide range of measures to protect the public on our buses and trains, including the mandated use of face coverings, an enhanced cleaning regime and protections for staff and customers to minimise contact.
As we progress through this pandemic, my Department and Translink will be cognisant of any change in public health guidelines and we will increase capacity on our network when it is safe to do so.
I have recently brought a paper to the Executive outlining the importance of infrastructure in our recovery to COVID-19 and this included the role of public transport. As we respond to COVID-19 within the Executive, I am clear that we must be considerate of the role our public transport can play in our recovery, as well as the impact that changes to guidelines can have on the network.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20702%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=308690","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=308690"}},{"id":"306505","reference":"AQW 6230/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-03","answerBy":"2020-09-18","answered":"2020-09-21","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) what meetings she or her departmental officials have had with the banking sector to address growing concern about the lack of banking provision in rural areas; and (ii) what proactive measures are being taken by banks to provide locally-based access to help people to set up an account in advance of the end of the Department for Work and Pensions contract with the Post Office as part of the Future Method of Payment Project.","answerText":"I appreciate the impact that rural banking services can have on local communities, business and investment in rural areas.\n\nMy Department does not have direct responsibility for banks in Northern Ireland as the regulation of financial services is a reserved matter. However, the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland (CCNI), which is one of my Department’s Non Departmental Public Bodies, provides advice on consumer matters including banking services.\n\nThe Consumer Council website (www.consumercouncil.org.uk) provides guidance to consumers on bank closures, a Financial Map of Northern Ireland that highlights financial services in areas affected by bank closures, and a current account comparison tool.\n\nThe issue of proactive measures being taken by banks to provide locally-based access to help people to set up an account in advance of the end of the Department for Work and Pensions contract with the Post Office as part of the Future Method of Payment Project is not within the remit of my Department. I would direct you to the Minister for Communities as the issue falls within her Department’s remit.","answerHtml":"I appreciate the impact that rural banking services can have on local communities, business and investment in rural areas.
My Department does not have direct responsibility for banks in Northern Ireland as the regulation of financial services is a reserved matter. However, the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland (CCNI), which is one of my Department’s Non Departmental Public Bodies, provides advice on consumer matters including banking services.
The Consumer Council website (www.consumercouncil.org.uk) provides guidance to consumers on bank closures, a Financial Map of Northern Ireland that highlights financial services in areas affected by bank closures, and a current account comparison tool.
The issue of proactive measures being taken by banks to provide locally-based access to help people to set up an account in advance of the end of the Department for Work and Pensions contract with the Post Office as part of the Future Method of Payment Project is not within the remit of my Department. I would direct you to the Minister for Communities as the issue falls within her Department’s remit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206230%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306505","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306505"}},{"id":"306504","reference":"AQW 6229/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-03","answerBy":"2020-09-18","answered":"2020-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline (i) the actions taken by her Department during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide accommodation for homeless street sleepers; and (ii) the actions her Department is taking to prevent the issue from returning after any temporary measures are withdrawn.","answerText":"An MOU was set up between my Department, the Housing Executive and DoH. As the statutory body with responsibility for provision of housing, the Housing Executive was best placed to commission necessary accommodation arrangements.\n\nThe Housing has advised that as of 8 September it, in conjunction with homeless charities and organisations, has identified 62 individuals who were rough sleeping. These individuals were engaged with and assisted to avail of temporary accommodation and support.\n\nThese individuals were placed in temporary accommodation, including homeless supported accommodation, B&B/Hotels, single lets and a House of Multiple occupation (HMO). All placements have been made with the aim of providing the most suitable type of accommodation that is sensitive to the extreme vulnerabilities that are often present amongst rough sleepers.\n\nA number of those sleeping rough had no recourse to public funds (NRPF) and were ineligible for housing assistance. In the context of maintaining adherence to current public health advice on social distancing, self-isolation or shielding, DoH agreed to fund the provision of accommodation for these individuals during the period of the current emergency.\n\nMy Department and the Housing Executive are currently assessing and evaluating the measures put in place to address homelessness during the COVID-19 crisis. This will inform our future homeless policy as we look to improve our response to homelessness","answerHtml":"An MOU was set up between my Department, the Housing Executive and DoH. As the statutory body with responsibility for provision of housing, the Housing Executive was best placed to commission necessary accommodation arrangements.
The Housing has advised that as of 8 September it, in conjunction with homeless charities and organisations, has identified 62 individuals who were rough sleeping. These individuals were engaged with and assisted to avail of temporary accommodation and support.
These individuals were placed in temporary accommodation, including homeless supported accommodation, B&B/Hotels, single lets and a House of Multiple occupation (HMO). All placements have been made with the aim of providing the most suitable type of accommodation that is sensitive to the extreme vulnerabilities that are often present amongst rough sleepers.
A number of those sleeping rough had no recourse to public funds (NRPF) and were ineligible for housing assistance. In the context of maintaining adherence to current public health advice on social distancing, self-isolation or shielding, DoH agreed to fund the provision of accommodation for these individuals during the period of the current emergency.
My Department and the Housing Executive are currently assessing and evaluating the measures put in place to address homelessness during the COVID-19 crisis. This will inform our future homeless policy as we look to improve our response to homelessness
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206229%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306504","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306504"}},{"id":"306503","reference":"AQW 6228/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-03","answerBy":"2020-09-18","answered":"2020-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she has any plans to review the requirement to provide medical proof for renewing a Blue Badge during the COVID-19 pandemic.","answerText":"The Blue Badge Unit in Northern Ireland has managed to maintain its service throughout the COVID-19 pandemic with little or no interruption. Applications, both online and postal are being processed as normal with no delays being experienced. While local authorities in GB had to suspend their Blue Badge services, the Department for Infrastructure was able to adapt some new working practices to meet the new challenges of working during the ongoing pandemic to ensure the service continued with as little effect on our applicants as possible.\n\nThe Blue Badge Unit will continue to request that, where applicable, medical evidence is submitted which will help expedite the Blue Badge application process but it is not essential as a medical questionnaire can be forwarded to the applicants nominated GP. It should also be noted that depending on the application history it may not be necessary to seek further medical evidence. We are not currently experiencing any major delays in getting responses from GP Practices to our requests for the completion of medical questionnaires.","answerHtml":"The Blue Badge Unit in Northern Ireland has managed to maintain its service throughout the COVID-19 pandemic with little or no interruption. Applications, both online and postal are being processed as normal with no delays being experienced. While local authorities in GB had to suspend their Blue Badge services, the Department for Infrastructure was able to adapt some new working practices to meet the new challenges of working during the ongoing pandemic to ensure the service continued with as little effect on our applicants as possible.
The Blue Badge Unit will continue to request that, where applicable, medical evidence is submitted which will help expedite the Blue Badge application process but it is not essential as a medical questionnaire can be forwarded to the applicants nominated GP. It should also be noted that depending on the application history it may not be necessary to seek further medical evidence. We are not currently experiencing any major delays in getting responses from GP Practices to our requests for the completion of medical questionnaires.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206228%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306503","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306503"}},{"id":"306502","reference":"AQW 6227/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-03","answerBy":"2020-09-18","answered":"2020-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what implication the Department for Infrastructure and NI Water’s identified water and sewage crisis will have on the target number of new builds needed to meet housing stress.","answerText":"The potential implications for the development of social housing schemes due to the identified issues affecting the water/sewage infrastructure is a concern for me, particularly given the increasing levels of housing stress.\n\nI understand that presently there are approximately nine schemes at risk due to capacity issues in the water/sewage network. These total more than a thousand social and affordable units over a number of years. I have asked the Housing Executive to carry out a detailed analysis of the areas of housing need that may be impacted by the water infrastructure issue.\n\nMy officials have and will continue to engage with the Department for Infrastructure and Housing Executive colleagues to establish options to minimise risks.\n\nMy ambition remains to increase the capacity of the Social Housing Development Programme and deliver much needed social homes in areas of most acute housing need.","answerHtml":"The potential implications for the development of social housing schemes due to the identified issues affecting the water/sewage infrastructure is a concern for me, particularly given the increasing levels of housing stress.
I understand that presently there are approximately nine schemes at risk due to capacity issues in the water/sewage network. These total more than a thousand social and affordable units over a number of years. I have asked the Housing Executive to carry out a detailed analysis of the areas of housing need that may be impacted by the water infrastructure issue.
My officials have and will continue to engage with the Department for Infrastructure and Housing Executive colleagues to establish options to minimise risks.
My ambition remains to increase the capacity of the Social Housing Development Programme and deliver much needed social homes in areas of most acute housing need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206227%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306502","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306502"}},{"id":"306501","reference":"AQW 6226/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-03","answerBy":"2020-09-18","answered":"2020-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the business case to use the £30 million allocated for the Arts was presented to the Executive and debated.","answerText":"The Department has submitted a bid to the Executive for £33m to secure financial support for culture, language, arts and heritage organisations, local musicians, freelancers and artists at a time when they are struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.","answerHtml":"The Department has submitted a bid to the Executive for £33m to secure financial support for culture, language, arts and heritage organisations, local musicians, freelancers and artists at a time when they are struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206226%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306501","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306501"}},{"id":"307893","reference":"AQO 650/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-03","answerBy":"2020-09-14","answered":"2020-09-15","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 she plans to introduce a voucher scheme to support the tourism sector.","answerText":"In April 2020, in recognition of the significant impact of the global pandemic on the tourism and hospitality sector, I established a Tourism Recovery Taskforce. I chair the Steering Group supported by a high level Working Group, chaired by John McGrillen, CEO, Tourism Northern Ireland.\n\nThrough these Groups, we have delivered a number of key priorities such as reopening timelines, operational guidelines, an industry chartermark and targeted marketing activity.\n\nThe Steering Group tasked the Working Group with developing a draft Tourism Recovery Action Plan. A draft Plan was presented to the Steering Group on 2 September.\n\nThe plan is draft at this stage and extensive, having been developed with many sectors of the tourism industry. It will now be subject to due diligence by my Department, in consultation with other relevant Departments, to consider deliverability, affordability and value for money.\n\nMany of the actions listed in the draft Plan, including the vouchers scheme, are dependent on decisions by the Executive on the allocation of Covid-19 resources. I continue to stress the need for urgent decisions on funding.\n\nTwo voucher schemes are under consideration: one for £50 accommodation vouchers to stimulate demand for short breaks, and a second, offering discounts with visitor attractions and tourism experience providers.\n\nVoucher schemes are a tried and tested method of stimulating demand. The proposal is that a certain allocation of vouchers would be given to media outlets and retailers to distribute to Northern Ireland residents.\n\nThis proposal will be carefully considered alongside a significant number of other requests contained within the action plan.","answerHtml":"In April 2020, in recognition of the significant impact of the global pandemic on the tourism and hospitality sector, I established a Tourism Recovery Taskforce. I chair the Steering Group supported by a high level Working Group, chaired by John McGrillen, CEO, Tourism Northern Ireland.
Through these Groups, we have delivered a number of key priorities such as reopening timelines, operational guidelines, an industry chartermark and targeted marketing activity.
The Steering Group tasked the Working Group with developing a draft Tourism Recovery Action Plan. A draft Plan was presented to the Steering Group on 2 September.
The plan is draft at this stage and extensive, having been developed with many sectors of the tourism industry. It will now be subject to due diligence by my Department, in consultation with other relevant Departments, to consider deliverability, affordability and value for money.
Many of the actions listed in the draft Plan, including the vouchers scheme, are dependent on decisions by the Executive on the allocation of Covid-19 resources. I continue to stress the need for urgent decisions on funding.
Two voucher schemes are under consideration: one for £50 accommodation vouchers to stimulate demand for short breaks, and a second, offering discounts with visitor attractions and tourism experience providers.
Voucher schemes are a tried and tested method of stimulating demand. The proposal is that a certain allocation of vouchers would be given to media outlets and retailers to distribute to Northern Ireland residents.
This proposal will be carefully considered alongside a significant number of other requests contained within the action plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20650%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307893","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307893"}},{"id":"305951","reference":"AQW 6038/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-08-18","answerBy":"2020-08-26","answered":"2020-08-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what agreement is in place with the Department for Infrastructure for students that will be travelling on the Strangford ferry whether (i) they have to wear masks; and (ii) what social distancing will be required.","answerText":"The Department for Infrastructure announced on 25 August that from 1 September that as school traffic returns, an “off schedule” service will be in operation on weekday early mornings 7:30 – 9:00am and late afternoons 4:00 – 5:00pm when required. Therefore additional foot passenger only services aimed at school children will depart at 8:10am from Portaferry and 4:00pm from Strangford. These sailings have been coordinated with designated school bus transport to and from Strangford.\n\nThe wearing of a face covering on these sailings is mandatory for those aged 13 and over and all pupils will be required to maintain a 1 metre plus social distance on board.","answerHtml":"The Department for Infrastructure announced on 25 August that from 1 September that as school traffic returns, an “off schedule” service will be in operation on weekday early mornings 7:30 – 9:00am and late afternoons 4:00 – 5:00pm when required. Therefore additional foot passenger only services aimed at school children will depart at 8:10am from Portaferry and 4:00pm from Strangford. These sailings have been coordinated with designated school bus transport to and from Strangford.
The wearing of a face covering on these sailings is mandatory for those aged 13 and over and all pupils will be required to maintain a 1 metre plus social distance on board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206038%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305951"}},{"id":"305950","reference":"AQW 6037/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-08-18","answerBy":"2020-09-03","answered":"2020-08-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what advice and training has been provided through the Education Authority Transport Offices to (i) all suppliers of home to school transport; and (ii) passenger transport assistants to ensure that a safe and standardised approach to school transport is provided.","answerText":"Following publication of revised New School Day guidance by my Department on 13th August, the Education Authority has issued guidance to all private operators contracted to provide home to school transport outlining minimum requirements and advice on key issues such as social distancing, hand hygiene, PPE and vehicle cleaning.\n\nIn respect of transport escorts, guidance for EA drivers and escorts has also been developed and return to work inductions for all EA driver and escort staff commenced during week beginning 17th August.","answerHtml":"Following publication of revised New School Day guidance by my Department on 13th August, the Education Authority has issued guidance to all private operators contracted to provide home to school transport outlining minimum requirements and advice on key issues such as social distancing, hand hygiene, PPE and vehicle cleaning.
In respect of transport escorts, guidance for EA drivers and escorts has also been developed and return to work inductions for all EA driver and escort staff commenced during week beginning 17th August.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206037%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305950","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305950"}},{"id":"305949","reference":"AQW 6036/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-08-18","answerBy":"2020-09-03","answered":"2020-09-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether AS level results awarded to students in 2020 will be taken into account for their A2 exams being awarded in 2021.","answerText":"The AS qualifications awarded by the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) in 2020 will not form part of the CCEA A-Level award in 2021. CCEA is currently consulting on arrangements for GCSE, AS and A level examinations in 2021.","answerHtml":"The AS qualifications awarded by the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) in 2020 will not form part of the CCEA A-Level award in 2021. CCEA is currently consulting on arrangements for GCSE, AS and A level examinations in 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206036%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305949","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305949"}},{"id":"305948","reference":"AQW 6035/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-08-18","answerBy":"2020-09-03","answered":"2020-09-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) when sector-specific advice will be provided to the taxi industry to confirm whether passengers are required to wear masks in taxis; and (ii) what support she will provide the industry to ensure those transporting special education needs pupils are informed of measures they are required to take to protect themselves and passengers from COVID-19.","answerText":"As you will be aware the wearing of face coverings on public transport has been mandatory from 10 July. When the Executive agreed on 10 August to extend the requirement for mandatory face coverings to include certain indoor settings where social distancing cannot be maintained, it was my understanding that this would include enclosed indoor places such as taxis and buses. I have subsequently written to the Minister for Health to confirm this.\n\nYou will note from the beginning of this crisis, I have consistently called for a societal approach to the use of face coverings to ensure that all steps are taken to help prevent the spread of Covid-19. I can assure you that it is my firm view that following Executive agreement on 10 August, that face coverings must be worn in all enclosed settings where social distancing cannot be maintained.\n\nThat said, while face coverings can offer protection to others, they are not a substitute for other protective measures and it is important that people continue to follow social distancing and wash or sanitise hands regularly.\n\nFurther information on face coverings can be found at: www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-face-coverings\n\nand on social distancing at:\n\nwww.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/sites/default/files/Covid-19-Working-Through-This-Together.pdf\n\nThe transportation of pupils to school with special educational needs is the responsibility of the Department of Education. Further guidance on school transport can be found in Section 3 of the following: Re Opening Schools Guidance (August 2020)\n\nand for special schools at: Supplementary Guidance for Re Opening Special Schools (August 2020) from the Department of Education.\n\nThe general public health advice is to reduce the number of passengers carried, avoid a passenger travelling alongside the driver and travel with windows lowered to increase passenger compartment ventilation.","answerHtml":"As you will be aware the wearing of face coverings on public transport has been mandatory from 10 July. When the Executive agreed on 10 August to extend the requirement for mandatory face coverings to include certain indoor settings where social distancing cannot be maintained, it was my understanding that this would include enclosed indoor places such as taxis and buses. I have subsequently written to the Minister for Health to confirm this.
You will note from the beginning of this crisis, I have consistently called for a societal approach to the use of face coverings to ensure that all steps are taken to help prevent the spread of Covid-19. I can assure you that it is my firm view that following Executive agreement on 10 August, that face coverings must be worn in all enclosed settings where social distancing cannot be maintained.
That said, while face coverings can offer protection to others, they are not a substitute for other protective measures and it is important that people continue to follow social distancing and wash or sanitise hands regularly.
Further information on face coverings can be found at: www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-face-coverings
and on social distancing at:
www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/sites/default/files/Covid-19-Working-Through-This-Together.pdf
The transportation of pupils to school with special educational needs is the responsibility of the Department of Education. Further guidance on school transport can be found in Section 3 of the following: Re Opening Schools Guidance (August 2020)
and for special schools at: Supplementary Guidance for Re Opening Special Schools (August 2020) from the Department of Education.
The general public health advice is to reduce the number of passengers carried, avoid a passenger travelling alongside the driver and travel with windows lowered to increase passenger compartment ventilation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206035%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305948","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305948"}},{"id":"305947","reference":"AQW 6034/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-08-18","answerBy":"2020-09-03","answered":"2020-09-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how she will ensure the increased number of students attending local universities will have access to appropriate living accommodation; and (ii) whether she could implement a rent cap to ensure students are not charged a rent that is unreasonably higher than rents in the same area during the last year.","answerText":"Students attending universities or colleges live in a range of accommodation including;\n\nHalls of Residence\n\nPurpose built student accommodation\n\nHouses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)\n\nThe Department for Communities does not have responsibility for the first two types of student living accommodation.\n\nRegarding HMOs, Landlords of this type of accommodation must have a license to operate, and they must meet strict criteria in relation to the standard of the property and satisfy the criteria in relation to being a “fit and proper person” in order to obtain said license. The responsibility for awarding a license is with Councils.\n\nThe Department for Communities does not have a legislative power to implement a rent cap for student accommodation.","answerHtml":"Students attending universities or colleges live in a range of accommodation including;
Halls of Residence
Purpose built student accommodation
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
The Department for Communities does not have responsibility for the first two types of student living accommodation.
Regarding HMOs, Landlords of this type of accommodation must have a license to operate, and they must meet strict criteria in relation to the standard of the property and satisfy the criteria in relation to being a “fit and proper person” in order to obtain said license. The responsibility for awarding a license is with Councils.
The Department for Communities does not have a legislative power to implement a rent cap for student accommodation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206034%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305947","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305947"}},{"id":"305459","reference":"AQW 5945/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-28","answerBy":"2020-07-31","answered":"2020-07-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when her Department will issue letters of offer to local councils for the revitalisation funding.","answerText":"Letters of offer for the COVID-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme have been issued to all eleven Local Councils.","answerHtml":"Letters of offer for the COVID-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme have been issued to all eleven Local Councils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205945%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305459","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305459"}},{"id":"305458","reference":"AQW 5944/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-28","answerBy":"2020-08-12","answered":"2020-08-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what percentage of (i) all staff; and (ii) staff at Grade 5 and above, working in his Department have completed anti-racism training; and how often this training is updated.","answerText":"NICSHR diversity and inclusion training courses are reviewed and updated periodically. Reviews scheduled for 2020/21 are underway.\n\nIn 2017 Unconscious Bias training was introduced to the NICS. Initial classroom based training was provided to SCS staff with 40 DoF SCS staff completing the training. In August 2017 Unconscious Bias e-learning training was made available to all other staff and rolled out on a mandatory basis for line managers up to Grade 6 level. To date 2208 DoF staff in grades below SCS level have completed this package.","answerHtml":"NICSHR diversity and inclusion training courses are reviewed and updated periodically. Reviews scheduled for 2020/21 are underway.
In 2017 Unconscious Bias training was introduced to the NICS. Initial classroom based training was provided to SCS staff with 40 DoF SCS staff completing the training. In August 2017 Unconscious Bias e-learning training was made available to all other staff and rolled out on a mandatory basis for line managers up to Grade 6 level. To date 2208 DoF staff in grades below SCS level have completed this package.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205944%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305458","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305458"}},{"id":"305457","reference":"AQW 5943/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-28","answerBy":"2020-08-12","answered":"2020-08-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the process used by his Department to identify and enable identification of partners to take part in the co-production and co-design of policies and legislation; and how they ensure their contacts are kept up to date and current.","answerText":"The Department of Finance follows NICS guidance on the Distribution of Departmental Publications and Consultation and adapts this to the issue on which the consultation or engagement is taking place. The Department identifies the stakeholders with a particular interest in the specific policy area or piece of legislation at the outset the development process and puts in place an engagement approach which is appropriate for the issue under consideration. When possible for policy development issues first engagement can be led by the Department’s Innovation Lab where stakeholders are invited to debate and agree issues and potential approaches. This approach was adopted for recent engagements on non-domestic rating reform, dormant accounts and community asset transfer. When appropriate subsequent engagement events would be held in different locations. For example, a targeted engagement with the business community was undertaken to assist with the design of the rates relief package put in place by the Executive this year. Consultation on budget issues have recently taken place over very short timescales. Consultations are publicised to ensure that all interested parties can contribute. The Departments Assembly Committee would be fully involved in all consultations.\n\nFor Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS)-wide internal Human Resources (HR) policies, NICSHR consults with the trade unions recognised by the NICS for collective bargaining purposes. Engagement with these unions is on an ongoing basis. Contact points are well established with any changes notified.","answerHtml":"The Department of Finance follows NICS guidance on the Distribution of Departmental Publications and Consultation and adapts this to the issue on which the consultation or engagement is taking place. The Department identifies the stakeholders with a particular interest in the specific policy area or piece of legislation at the outset the development process and puts in place an engagement approach which is appropriate for the issue under consideration. When possible for policy development issues first engagement can be led by the Department’s Innovation Lab where stakeholders are invited to debate and agree issues and potential approaches. This approach was adopted for recent engagements on non-domestic rating reform, dormant accounts and community asset transfer. When appropriate subsequent engagement events would be held in different locations. For example, a targeted engagement with the business community was undertaken to assist with the design of the rates relief package put in place by the Executive this year. Consultation on budget issues have recently taken place over very short timescales. Consultations are publicised to ensure that all interested parties can contribute. The Departments Assembly Committee would be fully involved in all consultations.
For Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS)-wide internal Human Resources (HR) policies, NICSHR consults with the trade unions recognised by the NICS for collective bargaining purposes. Engagement with these unions is on an ongoing basis. Contact points are well established with any changes notified.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205943%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305457","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305457"}},{"id":"305456","reference":"AQW 5942/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-28","answerBy":"2020-08-12","answered":"2020-08-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what percentage of face masks purchased are clear masks enabling staff faces and mouths to be visible; (ii) who is the supplier of these face masks; (iii) how they will be distributed; and (iv) whether there is a priority in place for the type of staff issued with clear masks.","answerText":"To date clear face masks have not been purchased for Northern Ireland’s health and social care system. Work is being undertaken with physical and sensory disability teams across the HSC in NI and part of this work will be to ensure there is appropriate PPE provision for these priority areas going forward. There are procurement mechanisms in place through the PPE dynamic purchasing system, for purchase of transparent masks and as an interim measure NI will benefit from a UK national order for clear face masks.","answerHtml":"To date clear face masks have not been purchased for Northern Ireland’s health and social care system. Work is being undertaken with physical and sensory disability teams across the HSC in NI and part of this work will be to ensure there is appropriate PPE provision for these priority areas going forward. There are procurement mechanisms in place through the PPE dynamic purchasing system, for purchase of transparent masks and as an interim measure NI will benefit from a UK national order for clear face masks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205942%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305456","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305456"}},{"id":"305455","reference":"AQW 5941/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-28","answerBy":"2020-08-12","answered":"2020-09-03","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 process is used to ensure Jobs and Benefits Offices are made aware of employment opportunities in new or developing industries and the relevant training available to help people to access these opportunities.","answerText":"Co-operation between my Department and the Department for Communities (DfC) has been ongoing to ensure job opportunities are highlighted as effectively as possible throughout the Jobs and Benefits Office (JBO) network. A regular meeting is held between staff from my skills, economic and analytical teams, and their counterparts from DfC with responsibility for the JBO, tasked with looking how we can improve our offer and provide a more streamlined approach for individuals.\n\nMy Department’s Careers Service works closely with DfC Employer Advisers and Work Coaches, and many Careers advisers are located in Jobs and Benefits Offices. Careers advisers provide impartial advice and guidance to clients of all ages, to help them make informed decisions about their future career paths, including employment opportunities in new and developing sectors and associated training opportunities. My Department also shares detailed economic and jobs data with DfC, highlighting the areas of opportunity, broken down to a regional level.\n\nEach DfC Jobs and Benefits Office works closely with local employers to ensure that job opportunities, including those in new or developing industries, are discussed with people seeking employment. JBO Work Coaches will deliver a tailored response depending on the person, their skills and experience, and will direct them towards relevant training as needed to access these opportunities.\n\nIn addition to the training support available to people applying for these developing industry roles, the Department for Communities has both central and local employer engagement staff who work directly with employers to identify employment opportunities, support their promotion via the Department's free vacancy advertising service JobCentre Online, and highlight opportunities to staff within Jobs and Benefits Offices on a daily basis. These teams currently have collaborative relationships with both Department for the Economy and InvestNI, and in line with both Departments’ Covid response, my Department is providing DfC with regular data and analysis, including online job postings by sector. These collaborative linkages will be strengthened to ensure close working.\n\nAs part of the promotion of our Assured Skills academies, contact is made by Assured Skills with the Department for Communities, Universal Credit operations team, who will disseminate the promoted opportunity to all Jobs and Benefit offices (JBO’s). For those who are successful in their application onto an academy, training for in demand skills is provided through the FE/HE sector.\n\nPrior to any opportunity being advertised the Bridge to Employment (BtE) team notify all JBO’s of the opportunity. More recently the team have visited Job and Benefit Offices close to where the participating company/ies are situated to inform staff of the opportunities available and to promote the BtE programme.","answerHtml":"Co-operation between my Department and the Department for Communities (DfC) has been ongoing to ensure job opportunities are highlighted as effectively as possible throughout the Jobs and Benefits Office (JBO) network. A regular meeting is held between staff from my skills, economic and analytical teams, and their counterparts from DfC with responsibility for the JBO, tasked with looking how we can improve our offer and provide a more streamlined approach for individuals.
My Department’s Careers Service works closely with DfC Employer Advisers and Work Coaches, and many Careers advisers are located in Jobs and Benefits Offices. Careers advisers provide impartial advice and guidance to clients of all ages, to help them make informed decisions about their future career paths, including employment opportunities in new and developing sectors and associated training opportunities. My Department also shares detailed economic and jobs data with DfC, highlighting the areas of opportunity, broken down to a regional level.
Each DfC Jobs and Benefits Office works closely with local employers to ensure that job opportunities, including those in new or developing industries, are discussed with people seeking employment. JBO Work Coaches will deliver a tailored response depending on the person, their skills and experience, and will direct them towards relevant training as needed to access these opportunities.
In addition to the training support available to people applying for these developing industry roles, the Department for Communities has both central and local employer engagement staff who work directly with employers to identify employment opportunities, support their promotion via the Department's free vacancy advertising service JobCentre Online, and highlight opportunities to staff within Jobs and Benefits Offices on a daily basis. These teams currently have collaborative relationships with both Department for the Economy and InvestNI, and in line with both Departments’ Covid response, my Department is providing DfC with regular data and analysis, including online job postings by sector. These collaborative linkages will be strengthened to ensure close working.
As part of the promotion of our Assured Skills academies, contact is made by Assured Skills with the Department for Communities, Universal Credit operations team, who will disseminate the promoted opportunity to all Jobs and Benefit offices (JBO’s). For those who are successful in their application onto an academy, training for in demand skills is provided through the FE/HE sector.
Prior to any opportunity being advertised the Bridge to Employment (BtE) team notify all JBO’s of the opportunity. More recently the team have visited Job and Benefit Offices close to where the participating company/ies are situated to inform staff of the opportunities available and to promote the BtE programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205941%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305455","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305455"}},{"id":"305334","reference":"AQW 5863/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-27","answerBy":"2020-08-11","answered":"2020-08-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the process used by her Department to identify and enable identification of partners to take part in the co-production and co-design of policies and legislation; and how they ensure their contacts are kept up to date and current.","answerText":"Early and continuous engagement with stakeholders is embedded within policy making across my Department. My officials engage with a number of consultative and working groups, consisting of key stakeholders and partners that work with the Department on a regular basis in the co-production and co-design of policies and legislation to ensure the needs of those impacted by our policies are considered at every stage.\n\nBusiness areas across the Department securely maintain lists of key stakeholders and partners specific to their policy area, as well as referring to general stakeholder lists such as S75 consultees. Stakeholder lists and membership of groups are continually reviewed and updated, and officials regularly involve existing partners in discussions to identify any additional partners that should be involved.\n\nA practical example of this is the ongoing work by my officials to prepare for the development of a suite of Social Inclusion Strategies which includes the new Anti-Poverty Strategy, Disability Strategy, Gender Strategy and Sexual Orientation Strategy in line with the commitments made in New Decade, New Approach and the Executive’s Programme for Government.\n\nI am keen to ensure that representative organisations and groups of interest will be able to make a meaningful contribution to the development and implementation of these Strategies. I will establish processes for stakeholders and their representative groups to contribute to the design and development of the Strategies at all stages, taking account of their views, from the initial production through to monitoring and reporting, based on the principles and practice of citizen and community engagement.\n\nAs part of this process, I have agreed to the creation of an Expert Advisory Panel for each Strategy. Potential members will be approached to participate based on their expertise and in-depth knowledge of, issues relevant to the development of each Strategy.\n\nA Co-Design Group for each Strategy will also be appointed to advise on the development and content of the draft Strategies and their supporting action plans. The Groups will be made up of key stakeholders who can represent the views of the relevant sectors. Nominations to the Co-Design Groups will be sought from a cross-section of Voluntary and Community Sector organisations.","answerHtml":"Early and continuous engagement with stakeholders is embedded within policy making across my Department. My officials engage with a number of consultative and working groups, consisting of key stakeholders and partners that work with the Department on a regular basis in the co-production and co-design of policies and legislation to ensure the needs of those impacted by our policies are considered at every stage.
Business areas across the Department securely maintain lists of key stakeholders and partners specific to their policy area, as well as referring to general stakeholder lists such as S75 consultees. Stakeholder lists and membership of groups are continually reviewed and updated, and officials regularly involve existing partners in discussions to identify any additional partners that should be involved.
A practical example of this is the ongoing work by my officials to prepare for the development of a suite of Social Inclusion Strategies which includes the new Anti-Poverty Strategy, Disability Strategy, Gender Strategy and Sexual Orientation Strategy in line with the commitments made in New Decade, New Approach and the Executive’s Programme for Government.
I am keen to ensure that representative organisations and groups of interest will be able to make a meaningful contribution to the development and implementation of these Strategies. I will establish processes for stakeholders and their representative groups to contribute to the design and development of the Strategies at all stages, taking account of their views, from the initial production through to monitoring and reporting, based on the principles and practice of citizen and community engagement.
As part of this process, I have agreed to the creation of an Expert Advisory Panel for each Strategy. Potential members will be approached to participate based on their expertise and in-depth knowledge of, issues relevant to the development of each Strategy.
A Co-Design Group for each Strategy will also be appointed to advise on the development and content of the draft Strategies and their supporting action plans. The Groups will be made up of key stakeholders who can represent the views of the relevant sectors. Nominations to the Co-Design Groups will be sought from a cross-section of Voluntary and Community Sector organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205863%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305334","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305334"}},{"id":"305333","reference":"AQW 5862/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-27","answerBy":"2020-08-11","answered":"2020-08-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she intends to use Section 75 monitoring to enable inclusion by publishing the proactive approaches taken to promote equity rather than publishing Equality Monitoring information that confirm discrimination has not happened.","answerText":"Monitoring for the purposes of Section 75 provides for the continuing process of evaluating the impact of departmental policies and programmes to determine whether they have any adverse consequences, why these might be occurring and whether action needs to be taken to address any unfairness or disadvantage.\n\nIn accordance with Equality Commission guidance, the Department has undertaken an audit of inequalities to identify inequalities across the 9 Section 75 categories relevant to our functions. This has enabled the Department to identify areas where it can better promote equality of opportunity and good relations for our service users and those affected by our policies.\n\nThe Department conducts an annual review of progress on the implementation of our equality scheme commitments, including the publication of the Department’s Section 75 Annual Progress Report which presents the key projects and initiatives progressed during the year and reports on the impact and outcome of this work on people, relating to the relevant Section 75 category.","answerHtml":"Monitoring for the purposes of Section 75 provides for the continuing process of evaluating the impact of departmental policies and programmes to determine whether they have any adverse consequences, why these might be occurring and whether action needs to be taken to address any unfairness or disadvantage.
In accordance with Equality Commission guidance, the Department has undertaken an audit of inequalities to identify inequalities across the 9 Section 75 categories relevant to our functions. This has enabled the Department to identify areas where it can better promote equality of opportunity and good relations for our service users and those affected by our policies.
The Department conducts an annual review of progress on the implementation of our equality scheme commitments, including the publication of the Department’s Section 75 Annual Progress Report which presents the key projects and initiatives progressed during the year and reports on the impact and outcome of this work on people, relating to the relevant Section 75 category.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205862%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305333","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305333"}},{"id":"305332","reference":"AQW 5861/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-27","answerBy":"2020-08-11","answered":"2020-08-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions her Department is taking to ensure the Racial Equality Strategy 2015-2025 objectives are being met; and on what date she intends to publish a report confirming the approach it is taking towards achieving the strategy goals.","answerText":"I previously set out how my Departmental Racial Equality Champion, as part of the NICS Racial Equality Champions Group, was due to meet with the Racial Equality subgroup in March 2020 to discuss the co-design of a draft work plan (AQW 5291/17-22 refers).\n\nIt is my expectation that, in addition to ensuring synergy across all Departments to achieve the goals of the strategy, the work plan will set out how we report our progress towards achieving the objectives and goals of the Racial Equality Strategy 2015-2020.\n\nAs I have outlined previously, in the absence of an agreed work plan my Departmental Racial Equality Champion continues to ensure that messages about the importance of racial equality and good race relations are consistent and visible to all staff including Non-Departmental Public Bodies and other service providers.\n\nMy Department also arranged a Race Champion Awareness Session where colleagues were invited to develop a greater understanding of racial equality issues and incorporate the spirit and practicalities of the Racial Equality Strategy into their everyday work. The key speaker, Neil McKitterick from Barnardo’s NI Refugee Support Service, provided an overview of the refugee experience here in NI.\n\nAs a ‘Friend of Mela’, work is ongoing with Belfast Mela festival organisers to see how DfC can be involved in the week long virtual celebration of world music, dance and art from the 24th - 30th August.\n\nI remain committed to ensuring that due regard is given to racial equality when designing or delivering public services and in line with current equality legislation and best practice guidelines.","answerHtml":"I previously set out how my Departmental Racial Equality Champion, as part of the NICS Racial Equality Champions Group, was due to meet with the Racial Equality subgroup in March 2020 to discuss the co-design of a draft work plan (AQW 5291/17-22 refers).
It is my expectation that, in addition to ensuring synergy across all Departments to achieve the goals of the strategy, the work plan will set out how we report our progress towards achieving the objectives and goals of the Racial Equality Strategy 2015-2020.
As I have outlined previously, in the absence of an agreed work plan my Departmental Racial Equality Champion continues to ensure that messages about the importance of racial equality and good race relations are consistent and visible to all staff including Non-Departmental Public Bodies and other service providers.
My Department also arranged a Race Champion Awareness Session where colleagues were invited to develop a greater understanding of racial equality issues and incorporate the spirit and practicalities of the Racial Equality Strategy into their everyday work. The key speaker, Neil McKitterick from Barnardo’s NI Refugee Support Service, provided an overview of the refugee experience here in NI.
As a ‘Friend of Mela’, work is ongoing with Belfast Mela festival organisers to see how DfC can be involved in the week long virtual celebration of world music, dance and art from the 24th - 30th August.
I remain committed to ensuring that due regard is given to racial equality when designing or delivering public services and in line with current equality legislation and best practice guidelines.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205861%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305332","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305332"}},{"id":"305013","reference":"AQW 5750/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-21","answerBy":"2020-08-05","answered":"2020-07-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when classroom assistants will receive training or guidance on how to support children with a statement of special education needs, to ensure not only COVID-19-related protections are in place, but also to ensure children’s recognised needs will be met.","answerText":"Special School Principals have attended a webinar from the Department of Education (DE) and Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) on the emotional impact of COVID-19 on young people. Principals will disseminate this training as is appropriate within their own schools with staff, including classroom assistants.\n\nThe required Manual Handling training will be provided by the Education Authority (EA) under usual procedures for classroom assistants, and any required First Aid or health related training will be delivered by Health Trusts directly, as is usual procedure.\n\nIndividual risk assessments in relation to delivering education for children with statements will be required as part of the overall facilitation of the return to school. Existing guidance states that Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is only needed in a very small number of cases. These are:\n\nWorking with children, young people and pupils whose care routinely already involves the use of PPE, due to their intimate care needs and\n\nGiving children medication.\n\nA training programme for classroom assistants to support the social, behavioural, emotional and wellbeing needs of children with a statement will be available to all assistants in an online capacity from the EA from 17th August 2020. An online engagement briefing is planned with classroom assistants to seek their views on any further training requirements in supporting young people during Restart.\n\nTraining which is accessible to classroom assistants, including those working with children with statements of SEN, will continue to be provided by EA Support Services in the 2020-2021 school year through the Children and Young People Services Training Programme. This training will be adapted as required to ensure that necessary guidance is reflected in the training content. This will also be the case for any training and capacity building provided to classroom assistants as part of on-going support for individual children.","answerHtml":"Special School Principals have attended a webinar from the Department of Education (DE) and Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) on the emotional impact of COVID-19 on young people. Principals will disseminate this training as is appropriate within their own schools with staff, including classroom assistants.
The required Manual Handling training will be provided by the Education Authority (EA) under usual procedures for classroom assistants, and any required First Aid or health related training will be delivered by Health Trusts directly, as is usual procedure.
Individual risk assessments in relation to delivering education for children with statements will be required as part of the overall facilitation of the return to school. Existing guidance states that Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is only needed in a very small number of cases. These are:
Working with children, young people and pupils whose care routinely already involves the use of PPE, due to their intimate care needs and
Giving children medication.
A training programme for classroom assistants to support the social, behavioural, emotional and wellbeing needs of children with a statement will be available to all assistants in an online capacity from the EA from 17th August 2020. An online engagement briefing is planned with classroom assistants to seek their views on any further training requirements in supporting young people during Restart.
Training which is accessible to classroom assistants, including those working with children with statements of SEN, will continue to be provided by EA Support Services in the 2020-2021 school year through the Children and Young People Services Training Programme. This training will be adapted as required to ensure that necessary guidance is reflected in the training content. This will also be the case for any training and capacity building provided to classroom assistants as part of on-going support for individual children.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205750%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305013","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305013"}},{"id":"305012","reference":"AQW 5749/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-21","answerBy":"2020-08-05","answered":"2020-08-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will (i) extend the dates; or (ii) reimburse passengers the face value of pre-purchased books of Strangford ferry tickets unable to be used due to the COVID-19 lockdown.","answerText":"Although pre-purchased books of Strangford Lough Ferry Tickets were superseded by multi-journey SmartCards in autumn 2014, pre-purchased tickets were accepted for a further year after which they were no longer valid.\n\nIt is my intention to extend by 1 year, the expiry date of journeys on SmartCards, which are not used by customers due to the COVID-19 pandemic and I have asked my Officials to investigate how this can be achieved.\n\nRefunds will not be issued for pre-purchased books of tickets. The Terms and Conditions for use of a multi-journey SmartCard advise purchasers that no refunds will be given for unused journeys.","answerHtml":"Although pre-purchased books of Strangford Lough Ferry Tickets were superseded by multi-journey SmartCards in autumn 2014, pre-purchased tickets were accepted for a further year after which they were no longer valid.
It is my intention to extend by 1 year, the expiry date of journeys on SmartCards, which are not used by customers due to the COVID-19 pandemic and I have asked my Officials to investigate how this can be achieved.
Refunds will not be issued for pre-purchased books of tickets. The Terms and Conditions for use of a multi-journey SmartCard advise purchasers that no refunds will be given for unused journeys.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205749%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305012","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305012"}},{"id":"305011","reference":"AQW 5748/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-21","answerBy":"2020-08-05","answered":"2020-07-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) why Strangford village is regularly gridlocked by Strangford ferry queues; (ii) when regular traffic management to stop gridlock will be provided; and (iii) to specify the reasons for not returning to the Pre-COVID-19 ferry timetable.","answerText":"Queuing of ferry traffic through Strangford village does occur at times, but I am advised it tends to be infrequent and short-lived. Queues occur when demand exceeds the capacity of the ferry, for example during spring and summer holiday weekends.\n\nTraffic management measures were implemented in 2016, aimed at facilitating traffic progression during periods of increased demand for the ferry. This included provision of additional road markings and parking restrictions in Strangford village. In 2017 enhanced measures were introduced for use during predicted busy periods, including managing traffic into the marshalling area away from the main town, to hold vehicles until the next ferry sailing. During the recent busy July holiday weekends, additional resources were deployed to help manage traffic and implement more frequent sailings by using a ‘load and go’ system.\n\nUnfortunately the ferry service has experienced significant disruption primarily due to a reduction in the number of crew available, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and shielding. The ferry service must operate in accordance with the requirements of its licence, issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), to ensure the safety of both passengers and crew. A minimum of four crew members, each certified as competent by the MCA, are required for the vessel to operate. Due to the need to ensure availability of this minimum crew number from a reduced pool, while providing a reliable and sustainable service, it was necessary to introduce the temporary reduced timetable. This timetable has primarily focused on morning and evening traffic peaks, to facilitate those travelling to and from work and other essential users. The midday break is necessary, as the ferry is being operated each day by a single crew. The Department is working to safely resume the ferry timetable to pre-Covid-10 levels as quickly as possible.","answerHtml":"Queuing of ferry traffic through Strangford village does occur at times, but I am advised it tends to be infrequent and short-lived. Queues occur when demand exceeds the capacity of the ferry, for example during spring and summer holiday weekends.
Traffic management measures were implemented in 2016, aimed at facilitating traffic progression during periods of increased demand for the ferry. This included provision of additional road markings and parking restrictions in Strangford village. In 2017 enhanced measures were introduced for use during predicted busy periods, including managing traffic into the marshalling area away from the main town, to hold vehicles until the next ferry sailing. During the recent busy July holiday weekends, additional resources were deployed to help manage traffic and implement more frequent sailings by using a ‘load and go’ system.
Unfortunately the ferry service has experienced significant disruption primarily due to a reduction in the number of crew available, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and shielding. The ferry service must operate in accordance with the requirements of its licence, issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), to ensure the safety of both passengers and crew. A minimum of four crew members, each certified as competent by the MCA, are required for the vessel to operate. Due to the need to ensure availability of this minimum crew number from a reduced pool, while providing a reliable and sustainable service, it was necessary to introduce the temporary reduced timetable. This timetable has primarily focused on morning and evening traffic peaks, to facilitate those travelling to and from work and other essential users. The midday break is necessary, as the ferry is being operated each day by a single crew. The Department is working to safely resume the ferry timetable to pre-Covid-10 levels as quickly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205748%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305011","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305011"}},{"id":"305010","reference":"AQW 5747/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-21","answerBy":"2020-08-05","answered":"2020-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what process her Department uses to ensure that all policies and legislation proactively enables inclusion and equity, particularly for people with disabilities and black and ethnic minority persons.","answerText":"Under section 75 my Department, as a public authority, is required to have due regard to the need to promote equality of opportunity between the nine equality categories including people with disabilities and black and ethnic minority persons.\n\nIn accordance with Departmental Equality Scheme commitments, equality of opportunity and good relations are central to policy development with the tools of equality screening and equality impact assessment assisting policy makers to take into account the needs and effects of a particular policy on people within the section 75 equality groups.","answerHtml":"Under section 75 my Department, as a public authority, is required to have due regard to the need to promote equality of opportunity between the nine equality categories including people with disabilities and black and ethnic minority persons.
In accordance with Departmental Equality Scheme commitments, equality of opportunity and good relations are central to policy development with the tools of equality screening and equality impact assessment assisting policy makers to take into account the needs and effects of a particular policy on people within the section 75 equality groups.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205747%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305010","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305010"}},{"id":"305009","reference":"AQW 5746/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-21","answerBy":"2020-08-05","answered":"2020-08-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what percentage of (i) all staff; and (ii) staff at Grade 5 and above, working in her Department have completed anti-racism training; and how often this training is updated.","answerText":"NICSHR diversity and inclusion training courses are reviewed and updated periodically. Reviews scheduled for 2020/21 are underway.\n\nIn 2017, Unconscious Bias training was introduced to the NICS. Whilst information relating to the percentages of staff is not readily available, I can advise that initial classroom based training was provided to Senior Civil Service (SCS Grade 5 and above) staff, with 25 Department for Communities (DfC) SCS staff completing the training. In July 2017, Unconscious Bias e-learning training was made available to all other staff and rolled out on a mandatory basis for line managers up to Grade 6 level. To date, 4131 DfC staff in grades below SCS level have completed this package.\n\nThe Introduction to Section 75 e-learning package was made mandatory in DfC for staff at the Staff Officer grade and above. Since roll out in March 2018, a total of 1055 staff, including 19 SCS members, have completed the training.","answerHtml":"NICSHR diversity and inclusion training courses are reviewed and updated periodically. Reviews scheduled for 2020/21 are underway.
In 2017, Unconscious Bias training was introduced to the NICS. Whilst information relating to the percentages of staff is not readily available, I can advise that initial classroom based training was provided to Senior Civil Service (SCS Grade 5 and above) staff, with 25 Department for Communities (DfC) SCS staff completing the training. In July 2017, Unconscious Bias e-learning training was made available to all other staff and rolled out on a mandatory basis for line managers up to Grade 6 level. To date, 4131 DfC staff in grades below SCS level have completed this package.
The Introduction to Section 75 e-learning package was made mandatory in DfC for staff at the Staff Officer grade and above. Since roll out in March 2018, a total of 1055 staff, including 19 SCS members, have completed the training.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205746%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=305009","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=305009"}},{"id":"304512","reference":"AQW 5587/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-08","answerBy":"2020-07-27","answered":"2020-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what discussions she has had with the Minister of Finance regarding proposals to deliver shared housing funded by the £500m funding for shared and integrated education.","answerText":"Shared Housing is an important part of the overall housing programme my Department is committed to delivering. In that regard, officials from my Department have engaged with colleagues in DoF to avail of the financial flexibilities which allow Fresh Start funding for shared and integrated education to be used for the delivery of Shared Housing.\n\nDoF has transferred approximately £16.9m funding this financial year. This includes a capital allocation of £14.4m to support the building of homes and £2.5m resource which will support the delivery of Good Relations plans within those neighbourhoods and the local community. My Department is currently delivering 36 shared housing schemes through the Shared Housing Programme and this additional funding will allow that programme to expand in response to public appetite for shared neighbourhoods.","answerHtml":"Shared Housing is an important part of the overall housing programme my Department is committed to delivering. In that regard, officials from my Department have engaged with colleagues in DoF to avail of the financial flexibilities which allow Fresh Start funding for shared and integrated education to be used for the delivery of Shared Housing.
DoF has transferred approximately £16.9m funding this financial year. This includes a capital allocation of £14.4m to support the building of homes and £2.5m resource which will support the delivery of Good Relations plans within those neighbourhoods and the local community. My Department is currently delivering 36 shared housing schemes through the Shared Housing Programme and this additional funding will allow that programme to expand in response to public appetite for shared neighbourhoods.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205587%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=304512","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=304512"}},{"id":"304511","reference":"AQW 5586/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-08","answerBy":"2020-07-27","answered":"2020-07-20","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 review of welfare mitigation measures.","answerText":"The New Decade, New Approach Deal committed to a review of future welfare mitigation measures to be taken forward.\n\nMy Department is currently finalising proposals for the review and it is hoped that a formal announcement on how it will be taken forward will be made in due course. Details of the review will be shared with the Committee at the earliest opportunity and members will be afforded the chance to present their views on the proposal.\n\nThe Department is not yet in a position to provide details of the specific issues that will be covered in the review, however, the over-arching purpose will be to identify the need to develop a prioritised mitigation package which will be costed and assessed for affordability.\n\nI am committed to the principles of co-design in the development of any new mitigation measures. It is therefore planned to include representatives of the independent Advice Sector and other groups with an interest in social security at all stages of the review.","answerHtml":"The New Decade, New Approach Deal committed to a review of future welfare mitigation measures to be taken forward.
My Department is currently finalising proposals for the review and it is hoped that a formal announcement on how it will be taken forward will be made in due course. Details of the review will be shared with the Committee at the earliest opportunity and members will be afforded the chance to present their views on the proposal.
The Department is not yet in a position to provide details of the specific issues that will be covered in the review, however, the over-arching purpose will be to identify the need to develop a prioritised mitigation package which will be costed and assessed for affordability.
I am committed to the principles of co-design in the development of any new mitigation measures. It is therefore planned to include representatives of the independent Advice Sector and other groups with an interest in social security at all stages of the review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205586%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=304511","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=304511"}},{"id":"304392","reference":"AQW 5540/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-07","answerBy":"2020-07-24","answered":"2020-07-27","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) to provide a copy of the Tourism Strategy for Northern Ireland; (ii) what strategy there is to develop the tourism potential of the Ards Peninsula; and (iii) if there is none, why has this area been excluded.","answerText":"Prior to the onset of Covid-19, officials from the Department for the Economy had been working closely with Tourism NI to bring forward a draft Northern Ireland Tourism Strategy to 2030; one which would set out the principles, vision and key aims necessary to continue to position Northern Ireland as an internationally competitive tourism destination.\n\nThe intention had been to bring the draft forward for public consultation later in 2020 (subject to the Executive’s approval). However, COVID-19 delivered an immediate and full stop to international tourism right across the world with Northern Ireland being no exception.\n\nConsequently, it became necessary to redirect our efforts into working with our tourism industry to support businesses through these past difficult months and to take the necessary actions to restart our tourism Sector. You will be aware of the mitigations implemented at a national and local level (e.g. grant schemes, business rates relief, loan schemes etc.) which have played an important part in helping to sustain many tourism and hospitality businesses through the recent difficult months.\n\nIn addition, the decisive action taken by the NI Executive to accelerate the timeframe for re-opening the industry has played a key role in enabling businesses to begin to generate the revenue needed to retain jobs across Northern Ireland.\n\nRe-opening is a significant step forward but I am acutely aware that the road ahead will remain very challenging, and that planning to support rebuilding and enable renewed growth of the Sector in the longer term will be of singular importance.\n\nYou will be aware that I established and Chair a Tourism Recovery Steering Group, supported by a Tourism NI led Working Group, to lead on the planning and preparation for the recovery of the industry. The work being facilitated by these Groups will enable us to step through the process from restarting and rebuilding our Tourism Sector to planning strategically for the renewal and regrowth of the Sector in the longer term.\n\nWork to develop a Tourism Strategy will progress in this context. The operational environment in which Tourism now exists, locally, regionally and internationally has altered radically. The world’s current circumstances are uncertain, complex and ambiguous and thereby severely impact the effectiveness of conventional planning and management processes.\n\nConsequently our approach to the development of a strategy will require new\n\nand innovative ways of thinking but I remain confident that we can return Northern Ireland to its rightful place as an internationally competitive visitor destination.\n\nThe strategy will be a strategy for all of Northern Ireland, including the Ards Peninsula.\n\nYou may also wish to note that my officials and Tourism NI are currently involved in advising and supporting Councils to bring forward proposals for tourism projects in the various Council areas that comprise the Belfast Regional City Deal (BRCD) Area. This includes the Ards & North Down Council area; my officials are continuing to work closely with the Council, both on a one-to-one level and through the BRCD’s Tourism & Regeneration Advisory Board, which is Chaired by the Chief Executive of Ards and North Down Council.","answerHtml":"Prior to the onset of Covid-19, officials from the Department for the Economy had been working closely with Tourism NI to bring forward a draft Northern Ireland Tourism Strategy to 2030; one which would set out the principles, vision and key aims necessary to continue to position Northern Ireland as an internationally competitive tourism destination.
The intention had been to bring the draft forward for public consultation later in 2020 (subject to the Executive’s approval). However, COVID-19 delivered an immediate and full stop to international tourism right across the world with Northern Ireland being no exception.
Consequently, it became necessary to redirect our efforts into working with our tourism industry to support businesses through these past difficult months and to take the necessary actions to restart our tourism Sector. You will be aware of the mitigations implemented at a national and local level (e.g. grant schemes, business rates relief, loan schemes etc.) which have played an important part in helping to sustain many tourism and hospitality businesses through the recent difficult months.
In addition, the decisive action taken by the NI Executive to accelerate the timeframe for re-opening the industry has played a key role in enabling businesses to begin to generate the revenue needed to retain jobs across Northern Ireland.
Re-opening is a significant step forward but I am acutely aware that the road ahead will remain very challenging, and that planning to support rebuilding and enable renewed growth of the Sector in the longer term will be of singular importance.
You will be aware that I established and Chair a Tourism Recovery Steering Group, supported by a Tourism NI led Working Group, to lead on the planning and preparation for the recovery of the industry. The work being facilitated by these Groups will enable us to step through the process from restarting and rebuilding our Tourism Sector to planning strategically for the renewal and regrowth of the Sector in the longer term.
Work to develop a Tourism Strategy will progress in this context. The operational environment in which Tourism now exists, locally, regionally and internationally has altered radically. The world’s current circumstances are uncertain, complex and ambiguous and thereby severely impact the effectiveness of conventional planning and management processes.
Consequently our approach to the development of a strategy will require new
and innovative ways of thinking but I remain confident that we can return Northern Ireland to its rightful place as an internationally competitive visitor destination.
The strategy will be a strategy for all of Northern Ireland, including the Ards Peninsula.
You may also wish to note that my officials and Tourism NI are currently involved in advising and supporting Councils to bring forward proposals for tourism projects in the various Council areas that comprise the Belfast Regional City Deal (BRCD) Area. This includes the Ards & North Down Council area; my officials are continuing to work closely with the Council, both on a one-to-one level and through the BRCD’s Tourism & Regeneration Advisory Board, which is Chaired by the Chief Executive of Ards and North Down Council.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205540%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=304392","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=304392"}},{"id":"304391","reference":"AQW 5539/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-07","answerBy":"2020-07-24","answered":"2020-07-27","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 detail (i) how much underspend there is, broken down by each of the COVID-19 grants and loans; (ii) what plans are in place to utilise this money to help existing businesses that were unable to apply for support; and (iii) her plans to finance a resilience package for business that will include rural proofing measures.","answerText":"Although the Business Support Grant Schemes have closed and are all likely to be underutilised, a final figure for the underspend cannot be provided at this stages as a number of applications and appeals remain to be processed.\n\nFor the £10,000 Small Business Support Grant, approximately £240 million of support has been provided to date to 24,085 businesses.\n\nFor the £25,000 Retail, Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Grant, approximately £72 million of support has been provided to date to 2,946 businesses.\n\nThere were 4,949 applications to the NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund, Currently, around 900 applications are still being processed.\n\nI recognise that many businesses have not been able to avail of the support schemes as they have fallen outside of the eligibility criteria. I have circulated an Options Paper to my Executive Colleagues which sets out proposals for utilisation of available funds following the closure of the schemes. The decision on utilising these funds, and the allocation of any additional financial support, is a matter for Executive agreement and I look forward to further discussions with Executive Colleagues in due course.","answerHtml":"Although the Business Support Grant Schemes have closed and are all likely to be underutilised, a final figure for the underspend cannot be provided at this stages as a number of applications and appeals remain to be processed.
For the £10,000 Small Business Support Grant, approximately £240 million of support has been provided to date to 24,085 businesses.
For the £25,000 Retail, Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Grant, approximately £72 million of support has been provided to date to 2,946 businesses.
There were 4,949 applications to the NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund, Currently, around 900 applications are still being processed.
I recognise that many businesses have not been able to avail of the support schemes as they have fallen outside of the eligibility criteria. I have circulated an Options Paper to my Executive Colleagues which sets out proposals for utilisation of available funds following the closure of the schemes. The decision on utilising these funds, and the allocation of any additional financial support, is a matter for Executive agreement and I look forward to further discussions with Executive Colleagues in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205539%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=304391","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=304391"}},{"id":"304390","reference":"AQW 5538/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-07-07","answerBy":"2020-07-24","answered":"2020-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) what date the Strangford Ferry will return to pre-COVID-19 sailing times; (ii) whether a cashless payment option on the ferry will continue; and (iii) what measures she is taking to ensure school children using the ferry from late August will be able to travel safely in line with social distancing requirements.","answerText":"The ongoing requirement to comply with Covid-19 related restrictions means that it is not yet possible to set a date for when the Strangford Lough Ferry Service will return to the pre Covid-19 timetable. I am continuing to monitor passenger demand and crew availability and intend to return to the normal timetable as soon as practicable.\n\nCashless payment was introduced in early 2019 and has proved successful as an efficient and effective method of payment. It will continue going forward.\n\nThe passenger capacity of the ferry is currently being reviewed, in order to maximise capacity whilst complying with Covid-19 restrictions. All ferry passengers will be required to adhere to the social distancing requirements applicable at the time.\n\nThe majority of schoolchildren on the Strangford Ferry complete the remainder of their journey by bus. On Monday 8 June I met with the Minister for Education to discuss the Education Restart Programme. Colleagues from Translink and the Education Authority are developing transport plans for the return of pupils. Consideration is being given to the potential number of pupils returning to school and mitigating factors such as staggering school opening times. My officials are in consultation with Translink so that arrangements for schoolchildren travelling on the ferry can be finalised when there is a clearer understanding of what the requirement will be.","answerHtml":"The ongoing requirement to comply with Covid-19 related restrictions means that it is not yet possible to set a date for when the Strangford Lough Ferry Service will return to the pre Covid-19 timetable. I am continuing to monitor passenger demand and crew availability and intend to return to the normal timetable as soon as practicable.
Cashless payment was introduced in early 2019 and has proved successful as an efficient and effective method of payment. It will continue going forward.
The passenger capacity of the ferry is currently being reviewed, in order to maximise capacity whilst complying with Covid-19 restrictions. All ferry passengers will be required to adhere to the social distancing requirements applicable at the time.
The majority of schoolchildren on the Strangford Ferry complete the remainder of their journey by bus. On Monday 8 June I met with the Minister for Education to discuss the Education Restart Programme. Colleagues from Translink and the Education Authority are developing transport plans for the return of pupils. Consideration is being given to the potential number of pupils returning to school and mitigating factors such as staggering school opening times. My officials are in consultation with Translink so that arrangements for schoolchildren travelling on the ferry can be finalised when there is a clearer understanding of what the requirement will be.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205538%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=304390","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=304390"}},{"id":"303819","reference":"AQW 5292/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-29","answerBy":"2020-07-16","answered":"2020-07-09","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, given that action is due to happen annually, and the previous group was set up in May 2019, when the 2020 membership of the Racial Equality Subgroup will be published.","answerText":"The Subgroup appointed its new chair at its meeting on 1st July 2020 and will review its full membership at its meeting in September 2020. Following this any revised membership will be published.","answerHtml":"The Subgroup appointed its new chair at its meeting on 1st July 2020 and will review its full membership at its meeting in September 2020. Following this any revised membership will be published.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205292%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=303819","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=303819"}},{"id":"303818","reference":"AQW 5291/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-29","answerBy":"2020-07-16","answered":"2020-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the forward work programme for the Racial Equality Champion for her Department; and how that role is working with Arm's-Length Bodies to ensure the objectives of the Racial Equality Strategy are proactively being delivered.","answerText":"The Racial Equality Champions Group, including my Departmental Racial Equality Champion, was scheduled to meet with the Racial Equality subgroup in March 2020 to discuss the co-design of a draft work plan.\n\nThis meeting was postponed, and amidst the unprecedented pressures associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, has not been rescheduled to date.\n\nMy Departmental Racial Equality Champion, continues to ensure that messages about the importance of racial equality and good race relations are consistent and visible to all staff including Non-Departmental Public Bodies and other service providers.\n\nIn addition, a meeting was held between representatives from the People of African Descent and my officials to discuss the UN Decade for People of African Descent (UNDPAD), which ends 2024.\n\nMy Department, as a ‘Friend of Mela’, will also be working with Belfast Mela festival organisers to see how DfC can be involved in the week long virtual celebration of world music, dance and art from the 24th - 30th August.\n\nI am also committed to ensuring that all DfC Policies are reviewed through a racial equality lens, to ensure that due regard is given when designing or delivering public services and in line with current equality legislation and best practice guidelines.","answerHtml":"The Racial Equality Champions Group, including my Departmental Racial Equality Champion, was scheduled to meet with the Racial Equality subgroup in March 2020 to discuss the co-design of a draft work plan.
This meeting was postponed, and amidst the unprecedented pressures associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, has not been rescheduled to date.
My Departmental Racial Equality Champion, continues to ensure that messages about the importance of racial equality and good race relations are consistent and visible to all staff including Non-Departmental Public Bodies and other service providers.
In addition, a meeting was held between representatives from the People of African Descent and my officials to discuss the UN Decade for People of African Descent (UNDPAD), which ends 2024.
My Department, as a ‘Friend of Mela’, will also be working with Belfast Mela festival organisers to see how DfC can be involved in the week long virtual celebration of world music, dance and art from the 24th - 30th August.
I am also committed to ensuring that all DfC Policies are reviewed through a racial equality lens, to ensure that due regard is given when designing or delivering public services and in line with current equality legislation and best practice guidelines.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205291%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=303818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=303818"}},{"id":"303817","reference":"AQW 5290/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-29","answerBy":"2020-07-16","answered":"2020-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the work completed to date to update the Disability Strategy.","answerText":"My officials have been working to prepare for the development of a new Disability Strategy in line with the commitments made in New Decade, New Approach and the Executive’s Programme for Government.\n\nThe Strategy will target key areas of need identified by our stakeholders and will seek to address the barriers and inequalities faced by disabled people. To date, work has focused on research, exploring the existing evidence base; gathering information on strategic interventions in relation to disability and consultative groups involving disabled stakeholders across all departments; developing stakeholder relationships; fulfilling our international obligations in respect of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;\n\nThe significant and unprecedented pressures placed on everyone by COVID-19. In the initial phase of the pandemic, the primary focus of the Executive was to put in place measures to resolve the most pressing issues affecting the vulnerable in our society. As we move into the recovery phase, our focus will shift towards mitigating the medium to long term effects of COVID-19, and the lasting impact will be considered in the production of the new Disability Strategy. Working with key stakeholders, we will use all available evidence on the impact of the pandemic to inform the Strategy’s development.\n\nWork on the Strategy will commence imminently using a co-design approach.","answerHtml":"My officials have been working to prepare for the development of a new Disability Strategy in line with the commitments made in New Decade, New Approach and the Executive’s Programme for Government.
The Strategy will target key areas of need identified by our stakeholders and will seek to address the barriers and inequalities faced by disabled people. To date, work has focused on research, exploring the existing evidence base; gathering information on strategic interventions in relation to disability and consultative groups involving disabled stakeholders across all departments; developing stakeholder relationships; fulfilling our international obligations in respect of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;
The significant and unprecedented pressures placed on everyone by COVID-19. In the initial phase of the pandemic, the primary focus of the Executive was to put in place measures to resolve the most pressing issues affecting the vulnerable in our society. As we move into the recovery phase, our focus will shift towards mitigating the medium to long term effects of COVID-19, and the lasting impact will be considered in the production of the new Disability Strategy. Working with key stakeholders, we will use all available evidence on the impact of the pandemic to inform the Strategy’s development.
Work on the Strategy will commence imminently using a co-design approach.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205290%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=303817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=303817"}},{"id":"303816","reference":"AQW 5289/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-29","answerBy":"2020-07-16","answered":"2020-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will extend all the Coronavirus support processes; and when a decision will be communicated to the public.","answerText":"As we move forward, my Department will look closely at each of the emergency measures and processes in place to assess how well they have worked to support the most vulnerable people and sectors.","answerHtml":"As we move forward, my Department will look closely at each of the emergency measures and processes in place to assess how well they have worked to support the most vulnerable people and sectors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205289%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=303816","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=303816"}},{"id":"303815","reference":"AQW 5288/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-29","answerBy":"2020-07-16","answered":"2020-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when the Regional Fertility Centre based at the Royal Victoria Hospital will reopen; and when appointments and treatments will begin for patients.","answerText":"I can only provide information on publicly-funded treatment provided by the Regional Fertility Centre (RFC) in the Belfast Trust.\n\nI launched the Strategic Framework for Rebuilding Health and Social Care Services on 9 June 2020. The focus will be on re-starting urgent services first. However, I have made it clear that I also consider re-instatement of fertility services to be a priority and the Trust is working to put plans in place to enable the service to recommence as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"I can only provide information on publicly-funded treatment provided by the Regional Fertility Centre (RFC) in the Belfast Trust.
I launched the Strategic Framework for Rebuilding Health and Social Care Services on 9 June 2020. The focus will be on re-starting urgent services first. However, I have made it clear that I also consider re-instatement of fertility services to be a priority and the Trust is working to put plans in place to enable the service to recommence as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205288%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=303815","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=303815"}},{"id":"302863","reference":"AQW 4996/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-18","answerBy":"2020-07-03","answered":"2020-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when AQW 4239/17-22, AQW 4238/17-22, AQW 4134/17-22, AQW 4133/17-22, AQW 4021/17-22, AQW 3951/17-22, AQW 3783/17-22, AQW 3782/17-22, AQW 3574/17-22, AQW 3426/17-22, AQW 3425/17-22, AQW 3424/17-22, AQW 3423/17-22, AQW 3269/17-22, AQW 3268/17-22, AQW 2807/17-22, AQW 3268/17-22, AQW 2725/17-22, AQW 2724/17-22, and AQW 2722/17-22 will be answered.","answerText":"AQW 3782/17-22, AQW 3574/17-22, AQW 3424/17-22, 2020 AQW 3423/17-22 and AQW 3268/17-22 were answered 23 June 2020.\n\nAQW 4021/17-22 was answered on 24 June 2020.\n\nAQW 3425/17-22, AQW 2807/17-22and AQW 2722/17-22 were answered on 25 June 2020.\n\nAQW 2725/17-22, AQW 2724/17-22 and AQW 4134/17-22 were answered on 26 June 2020.\n\nAQW 4238/17-22 was answered on 29 June 2020.\n\nAQW 4239/17-22, AQW 3783/17-22, AQW 3426/17-22 and AQW 3269/17-22 were answered on 10 July 2020\n\nAQW 3951/17-22 was answered on 16 July 2020.\n\nAQW 4133/17-22 was answered on 20 July 2020.","answerHtml":"AQW 3782/17-22, AQW 3574/17-22, AQW 3424/17-22, 2020 AQW 3423/17-22 and AQW 3268/17-22 were answered 23 June 2020.
AQW 4021/17-22 was answered on 24 June 2020.
AQW 3425/17-22, AQW 2807/17-22and AQW 2722/17-22 were answered on 25 June 2020.
AQW 2725/17-22, AQW 2724/17-22 and AQW 4134/17-22 were answered on 26 June 2020.
AQW 4238/17-22 was answered on 29 June 2020.
AQW 4239/17-22, AQW 3783/17-22, AQW 3426/17-22 and AQW 3269/17-22 were answered on 10 July 2020
AQW 3951/17-22 was answered on 16 July 2020.
AQW 4133/17-22 was answered on 20 July 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204996%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302863","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302863"}},{"id":"302745","reference":"AQW 4948/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-17","answerBy":"2020-06-25","answered":"2020-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the options being considered in conjunction with the Department of Education to address holiday hunger over the summer, when direct payments stop at the end of the school term.","answerText":"I welcome and support Minister Weir’s proposals to extend Direct Payments over the summer months and to continue with the equally important targeted element of support through the Eat Well, Live Well Programme delivered through the Youth Service. My Department’s Emergency Response Programme has acted as a wraparound to Free School Meals and ensured vulnerable families have been supported throughout.\n\nI remain committed to providing this wrap around support to families through localised provision of services and the Department will work closely with Education colleagues to ensure that the work that we are doing to support families who are at risk of food poverty is aligned and complementary to the Direct Payment Scheme and the Youth Service offer.\n\nMy Department’s food box scheme in its current form will come to an end on 26th June but the service will continue for those shielding until the end of July. We are however acutely aware of the ongoing needs of the most vulnerable in our society and of the need to ensure they have access to alternative sources of help.\n\nFor those not shielding there are a range of additional ways available by which they can get help to access food. The department in conjunction with its community partners will signpost people to other ways in which they can access food including:\n\nPriority online shopping deliveries for those shielding with the large supermarkets.\n\nDelivery services from a range of local shops.\n\nLocal volunteers to assist with delivering shopping\n\nLocal support through voluntary and community sector organisations/food charities.\n\nAn additional investment of more than £875,000 in other forms of food support will be made by the Department for people who are seeking help with food as we transition from the emergency to recovery phase of the pandemic. To help people progress from the current emergency interventions the Department will support Fareshare to deliver an increased supply of food to community food providers. Whilst we recognise that food may be at the forefront of need, the transition from an emergency response includes support and advice on wider issues and the strong network of local services will be vitally important.","answerHtml":"I welcome and support Minister Weir’s proposals to extend Direct Payments over the summer months and to continue with the equally important targeted element of support through the Eat Well, Live Well Programme delivered through the Youth Service. My Department’s Emergency Response Programme has acted as a wraparound to Free School Meals and ensured vulnerable families have been supported throughout.
I remain committed to providing this wrap around support to families through localised provision of services and the Department will work closely with Education colleagues to ensure that the work that we are doing to support families who are at risk of food poverty is aligned and complementary to the Direct Payment Scheme and the Youth Service offer.
My Department’s food box scheme in its current form will come to an end on 26th June but the service will continue for those shielding until the end of July. We are however acutely aware of the ongoing needs of the most vulnerable in our society and of the need to ensure they have access to alternative sources of help.
For those not shielding there are a range of additional ways available by which they can get help to access food. The department in conjunction with its community partners will signpost people to other ways in which they can access food including:
Priority online shopping deliveries for those shielding with the large supermarkets.
Delivery services from a range of local shops.
Local volunteers to assist with delivering shopping
Local support through voluntary and community sector organisations/food charities.
An additional investment of more than £875,000 in other forms of food support will be made by the Department for people who are seeking help with food as we transition from the emergency to recovery phase of the pandemic. To help people progress from the current emergency interventions the Department will support Fareshare to deliver an increased supply of food to community food providers. Whilst we recognise that food may be at the forefront of need, the transition from an emergency response includes support and advice on wider issues and the strong network of local services will be vitally important.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204948%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302745","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302745"}},{"id":"302744","reference":"AQW 4947/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-17","answerBy":"2020-07-02","answered":"2020-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of how the review of the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) was completed by the Housing Executive; (ii) what co-production and co-design was included as part of the process; and when her Department, in conjunction with the Housing Executive, will publish the review findings and any subsequent changes to the DFG application, process or support for applicants.","answerText":"I am aware that the Housing Executive examined the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) processes as part of its Build Yes programme which it concluded in 2018. The recommendations arising from the review of its DFG processes have mostly been implemented but the Housing Executive is still working through a transitional year, and therefore it is too early to measure formally the benefits of the changes.\n\nAs the new processes were only implemented in all Housing Executive Grants Offices for eight months prior to lock down, there has been insufficient time for the Housing Executive to assess a sufficient number of cases from start to finish using the new processes and IT systems. It is likely to be eighteen months before sufficient major and minor cases have been processed to provide a full evaluation of the changes.\n\nHowever, the Housing Executive has advised that performance during 2019/20 has been encouraging, with 1,119 approvals achieved, higher than the target of 900.\n\nIn terms of co-production and design the processes were analysed by the Housing Executive’s Build Yes team in consultation with members of the Housing Executive’s Grants staff and management. This included interactions with external stakeholders, such as Occupational Therapists (who make the recommendations for adaptations) and customers.\n\nThe Build Yes team subsequently made recommendations to streamline/improve the processes which resulted in a number of amendments to the Housing Executive’s DFG processes and IT systems to streamline and improve the DFG delivery.\n\nIn terms of publishing the recommendations this was an internal review conducted by the Housing Executive as part of its wider Build Yes programme seeking to improve its services throughout the organisation. As such there were never plans or a requirement to publish the details of the review and its recommendations.","answerHtml":"I am aware that the Housing Executive examined the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) processes as part of its Build Yes programme which it concluded in 2018. The recommendations arising from the review of its DFG processes have mostly been implemented but the Housing Executive is still working through a transitional year, and therefore it is too early to measure formally the benefits of the changes.
As the new processes were only implemented in all Housing Executive Grants Offices for eight months prior to lock down, there has been insufficient time for the Housing Executive to assess a sufficient number of cases from start to finish using the new processes and IT systems. It is likely to be eighteen months before sufficient major and minor cases have been processed to provide a full evaluation of the changes.
However, the Housing Executive has advised that performance during 2019/20 has been encouraging, with 1,119 approvals achieved, higher than the target of 900.
In terms of co-production and design the processes were analysed by the Housing Executive’s Build Yes team in consultation with members of the Housing Executive’s Grants staff and management. This included interactions with external stakeholders, such as Occupational Therapists (who make the recommendations for adaptations) and customers.
The Build Yes team subsequently made recommendations to streamline/improve the processes which resulted in a number of amendments to the Housing Executive’s DFG processes and IT systems to streamline and improve the DFG delivery.
In terms of publishing the recommendations this was an internal review conducted by the Housing Executive as part of its wider Build Yes programme seeking to improve its services throughout the organisation. As such there were never plans or a requirement to publish the details of the review and its recommendations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204947%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302744","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302744"}},{"id":"302575","reference":"AQW 4834/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-15","answerBy":"2020-06-30","answered":"2020-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when the contract with Capita for Personal Independence Payment assessments will end; and whether she will consult with people with disabilities as to how the contract can be improved before it goes out for tender again.","answerText":"I can confirm that the current contract with Capita for the delivery of Personal Independence Payment health assessments expires on 31 July 2021.. Due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and to ensure the safeguarding of the existing service from August 2021, the Department intends to extend this contract by 24 months to the end of July 2023.\n\nThe Department will prepare a business case for approval by the end of the year to appraise a range of options for the future delivery of Health Assessment Services. This will include a full appraisal of the in-housing option and afford opportunities for engagement and consultation with the voluntary and community sector to identify improvements to the future delivery of the service.\n\nThe Department continues to engage on a quarterly basis with the voluntary and community sector regarding the delivery of PIP through the Disability Consultative Forum, a specific forum for local disability groups and the advice sector.\n\nThe Department has also commissioned Marie Cavanagh to undertake the second independent review of the PIP assessment process. A call for evidence remains open until 16 October 2020 aimed at organisations and individuals who have information that is relevant to how the PIP assessment is operating. Recommendations will be laid in the Assembly in the form of a report which is due in December 2020.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that the current contract with Capita for the delivery of Personal Independence Payment health assessments expires on 31 July 2021.. Due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and to ensure the safeguarding of the existing service from August 2021, the Department intends to extend this contract by 24 months to the end of July 2023.
The Department will prepare a business case for approval by the end of the year to appraise a range of options for the future delivery of Health Assessment Services. This will include a full appraisal of the in-housing option and afford opportunities for engagement and consultation with the voluntary and community sector to identify improvements to the future delivery of the service.
The Department continues to engage on a quarterly basis with the voluntary and community sector regarding the delivery of PIP through the Disability Consultative Forum, a specific forum for local disability groups and the advice sector.
The Department has also commissioned Marie Cavanagh to undertake the second independent review of the PIP assessment process. A call for evidence remains open until 16 October 2020 aimed at organisations and individuals who have information that is relevant to how the PIP assessment is operating. Recommendations will be laid in the Assembly in the form of a report which is due in December 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204834%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302575","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302575"}},{"id":"302574","reference":"AQW 4833/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-15","answerBy":"2020-06-30","answered":"2020-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the communication she, and her Department, has had with the Department for Work and Pensions and the Treasury regarding the suspension of the Move to Universal Credit; (ii) when the Move to Universal Credit is expected to happen; and (iii) what plans she has to introduce transitional protections for people moved off legacy benefits before the Move to Universal Credit is introduced.","answerText":"I am committed to protecting the vulnerable in our society and so officials in my Department engage regularly and closely with officials in DWP on all aspects of Universal Credit.\n\nOn the move to Universal Credit, a DWP pilot started in July 2019, with the aim of testing a number of possible approaches, including the calculation of transitional protection to support people through the next phase, known as Move to UC. I am aware that due to the Coronavirus outbreak and the need to meet the priority of responding to unprecedented demand and getting payment to those who need it as quickly as possible, the Move to UC pilot in Britain has been temporarily suspended.\n\nWhile my Department had work ongoing in planning for a future Move to UC exercise, including monitoring closely the pilot in Britain, people here were not included in the DWP pilot. However, as a result of the pandemic my Department has also faced an unprecedented increase in demand for services with reduced staff capacity. All available resources are being directed to delivering essential frontline services to those who need them, in particular the most vulnerable in our communities. Resumption of non - essential activity including work on planning for the Move to UC phase here, will take place at an appropriate time.\n\nThe British Government has made a commitment that those people who make a claim to UC during the Move to UC phase will not receive less in Universal Credit at the outset than they would have in the previous legacy benefits - assuming their circumstances remain the same.\n\nHowever, it is not appropriate to compare those who may move onto UC through Move to UC (with no change of circumstances) and those who move onto UC because of an event that triggers a new benefit claim. Where there is a change of circumstances, different amounts of benefit may be payable. Therefore, there is no ‘correct’ amount that can be calculated for transitional payments in comparison to what might be payable by way of transitional protection under Move to UC.\n\nThere are however additional payments of two weeks of Housing Benefit, known as a “run-on” which are already available to people moving to UC. Remaining people moving to UC under the Move to UC process will be eligible to receive a two-week Transitional Payment, in line with those claimants who migrate to UC because of a change of circumstances.\n\nThere will also be a two-week “run on” for people in receipt of income-based Jobseekers Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Income Support from 22 July 2020. The amount of these “run-ons” will be fixed according to the amount of the award payable immediately before claiming UC.\n\nMy Department is also currently making transitional payments to those who lost the Severe Disability Premium after moving from legacy benefits to UC.","answerHtml":"I am committed to protecting the vulnerable in our society and so officials in my Department engage regularly and closely with officials in DWP on all aspects of Universal Credit.
On the move to Universal Credit, a DWP pilot started in July 2019, with the aim of testing a number of possible approaches, including the calculation of transitional protection to support people through the next phase, known as Move to UC. I am aware that due to the Coronavirus outbreak and the need to meet the priority of responding to unprecedented demand and getting payment to those who need it as quickly as possible, the Move to UC pilot in Britain has been temporarily suspended.
While my Department had work ongoing in planning for a future Move to UC exercise, including monitoring closely the pilot in Britain, people here were not included in the DWP pilot. However, as a result of the pandemic my Department has also faced an unprecedented increase in demand for services with reduced staff capacity. All available resources are being directed to delivering essential frontline services to those who need them, in particular the most vulnerable in our communities. Resumption of non - essential activity including work on planning for the Move to UC phase here, will take place at an appropriate time.
The British Government has made a commitment that those people who make a claim to UC during the Move to UC phase will not receive less in Universal Credit at the outset than they would have in the previous legacy benefits - assuming their circumstances remain the same.
However, it is not appropriate to compare those who may move onto UC through Move to UC (with no change of circumstances) and those who move onto UC because of an event that triggers a new benefit claim. Where there is a change of circumstances, different amounts of benefit may be payable. Therefore, there is no ‘correct’ amount that can be calculated for transitional payments in comparison to what might be payable by way of transitional protection under Move to UC.
There are however additional payments of two weeks of Housing Benefit, known as a “run-on” which are already available to people moving to UC. Remaining people moving to UC under the Move to UC process will be eligible to receive a two-week Transitional Payment, in line with those claimants who migrate to UC because of a change of circumstances.
There will also be a two-week “run on” for people in receipt of income-based Jobseekers Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Income Support from 22 July 2020. The amount of these “run-ons” will be fixed according to the amount of the award payable immediately before claiming UC.
My Department is also currently making transitional payments to those who lost the Severe Disability Premium after moving from legacy benefits to UC.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204833%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302574","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302574"}},{"id":"302243","reference":"AQW 4672/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-10","answerBy":"2020-06-25","answered":"2020-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to confirm (i) when his Department will provide information to parents of preschool, key stage 1 and children with special educational needs, outlining social distancing and hygiene requirements in schools; and (ii) what guidance is being provided for teachers and classroom assistants to ensure all are able to meet the needs of children starting or returning to school within the next 10-12 weeks.","answerText":"My Department has established a Restart Programme to consider a range of issues relating to the safe and effective re-opening of schools. As part of this, strategic guidance has been prepared, through co-design with practitioners, on practical issues linked to a “new school day”. This guidance focuses extensively on social distancing and hygiene measures, informed by Public Health Agency advice and has a “day-one” focus. This guidance is available on the DE website and has been shared with Principals.\n\nThe New School Day guidelines are only a first step. I expect these strategic guidelines to be supplemented by further guidance on a range of issues, including specific information for supporting children with special education needs (SEN).\n\nAs part of the Restart Programme, a Vulnerable Children and SEN Services Project has been established with the primary objective to ensure that services to vulnerable children and young people including those with SEN are re-instated in a safe and effective manner when schools return to operation.\n\nMy Department is working to ensure appropriate information is available on the departmental website for a range of stakeholders including school leaders, parents / carers and children and young people.","answerHtml":"My Department has established a Restart Programme to consider a range of issues relating to the safe and effective re-opening of schools. As part of this, strategic guidance has been prepared, through co-design with practitioners, on practical issues linked to a “new school day”. This guidance focuses extensively on social distancing and hygiene measures, informed by Public Health Agency advice and has a “day-one” focus. This guidance is available on the DE website and has been shared with Principals.
The New School Day guidelines are only a first step. I expect these strategic guidelines to be supplemented by further guidance on a range of issues, including specific information for supporting children with special education needs (SEN).
As part of the Restart Programme, a Vulnerable Children and SEN Services Project has been established with the primary objective to ensure that services to vulnerable children and young people including those with SEN are re-instated in a safe and effective manner when schools return to operation.
My Department is working to ensure appropriate information is available on the departmental website for a range of stakeholders including school leaders, parents / carers and children and young people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204672%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302243","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302243"}},{"id":"302242","reference":"AQW 4671/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-10","answerBy":"2020-06-25","answered":"2020-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what discussions she has had with HMRC to enable legislation to be amended to remove the requirement for the Housing Executive (NIHE) to have to pay corporation tax, given the liability will reduce the ability of the NIHE to deliver planned maintenance and housing support.","answerText":"Corporation Tax legislation is an Excepted Matter and any changes to tax legislation would need to be made at Westminster, supported by HMRC/ Treasury.\n\nThere has been ongoing engagement for several years. Both the Head of the Civil Service and consecutive Permanent Secretaries in the Department of Finance have raised the matter.\n\nA 16 July, 2020 letter from the DoF Permanent Secretary, requesting a discussion on this issue, is with the Permanent Secretary for Treasury. My Department also wrote to HMRC on July 3, 2020 citing the similarity between the Housing Executive case for exemption from Corporation Tax and that successfully made by the Education Authority in 2017.","answerHtml":"Corporation Tax legislation is an Excepted Matter and any changes to tax legislation would need to be made at Westminster, supported by HMRC/ Treasury.
There has been ongoing engagement for several years. Both the Head of the Civil Service and consecutive Permanent Secretaries in the Department of Finance have raised the matter.
A 16 July, 2020 letter from the DoF Permanent Secretary, requesting a discussion on this issue, is with the Permanent Secretary for Treasury. My Department also wrote to HMRC on July 3, 2020 citing the similarity between the Housing Executive case for exemption from Corporation Tax and that successfully made by the Education Authority in 2017.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204671%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302242","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302242"}},{"id":"302149","reference":"AQW 4639/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-09","answerBy":"2020-06-24","answered":"2020-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to publish guidance for (i) childcare and daycare providers that confirms the hygiene and personal protection equipment requirements when they return to full operation; and (ii) parents and carers of people with disabilities, explaining how and when support for families needing childcare or daycare will be provided.","answerText":"In respect of childcare, updated COVID-19 guidance was published and circulated to all childcare providers on 9 June 2020, which covers hygiene and personal protective equipment. Guidance for parents who need to access childcare, including parents of children with disabilities, has also been published on my Department’s website and NI Direct.\n\nAll of the latest guidance regarding childcare is also available on the Family Support NI website at:\n\nhttps://www.familysupportni.gov.uk/Support/91/covid19-childcare-options-and-associated-guidance.\n\nThe public health guidance for all health and social care workers is available on the Public Health Agency website at:\n\nhttps://www.publichealth.hscni.net/covid-19-coronavirus/guidance-hsc-staff-healthcare-workers-and-care-providers.\n\nEngagement has been ongoing between HSC Trusts, carers and service users in relation to the reopening of a range of facility based services, including adult day care. HSC Trusts have advised that they have redeployed the staff resource to provide appropriate alternative support to vulnerable service users and families on a risk assessed basis, delivered within COVID-19 guidelines.","answerHtml":"In respect of childcare, updated COVID-19 guidance was published and circulated to all childcare providers on 9 June 2020, which covers hygiene and personal protective equipment. Guidance for parents who need to access childcare, including parents of children with disabilities, has also been published on my Department’s website and NI Direct.
All of the latest guidance regarding childcare is also available on the Family Support NI website at:
https://www.familysupportni.gov.uk/Support/91/covid19-childcare-options-and-associated-guidance.
The public health guidance for all health and social care workers is available on the Public Health Agency website at:
https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/covid-19-coronavirus/guidance-hsc-staff-healthcare-workers-and-care-providers.
Engagement has been ongoing between HSC Trusts, carers and service users in relation to the reopening of a range of facility based services, including adult day care. HSC Trusts have advised that they have redeployed the staff resource to provide appropriate alternative support to vulnerable service users and families on a risk assessed basis, delivered within COVID-19 guidelines.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204639%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302149","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302149"}},{"id":"302148","reference":"AQW 4638/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-09","answerBy":"2020-06-24","answered":"2020-06-19","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 confirm (i) what equality impact assessment her Department has undertaken to consider employees who are people with dependants in the Coronavirus economic strategy and relaxation of rules enabling people to return to work; and (ii) what support will be in place to ensure people who are parents or carers will be protected so that they are not subject to redundancy or have to resign from employment as a result of lack of childcare or daycare provision.","answerText":"Relaxation of Restrictions and Economic Recovery\n\nOn 12th May 2020, the Executive announced and published a new phased five-stage plan for slowly moving out of lockdown; ‘Coronavirus Executive Approach to Decision Making’. The document sets out the approach the Executive will take when deciding how to ease restrictions in the future, as we move through the phases of relaxation to recovery.\n\nIt is for the Executive therefore, through the First and deputy First Minister’s Office, to determine when further relaxation measures will be permitted, including those related to the re-opening of employment sectors, and the subsequent return to work of employees.\n\nDetails, including the dates on which any further relaxations come into effect, will be provided on a regular basis, and the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 will be updated accordingly.\n\nIn making such decisions, the Executive Office will be guided by most up-to-date scientific evidence; the ability of the health service to cope; and the wider impacts on our health, society and the economy.\n\nFurther to this Executive announcement, my Department took the lead on a piece of work, focussed on economic recovery. Working with a number of key stakeholders, officials committed to developing a series of papers that would be presented to the Executive. These papers will outline initial thinking on how the economic recovery plan could materialise.\n\nThis will include consideration of safe working practices for individual sectors or working environments, the need for continued social distancing and flexible working in the foreseeable future, and the support, financial and otherwise that will be required to enable different businesses and employers to implement such.\n\nMy Department has now published the first of these papers; an analysis on how we can take our first steps to restart our economy safely. This is available at:\n\nhttps://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/charting-course-economy\n\nMy Department is not developing a Coronavirus economic strategy, and therefore, it is not deemed necessary to carry out an equality impact assessment\n\nChildcare and Day care provision\n\nLead policy and operational responsibility for childcare and daycare provision in Northern Ireland resides with the Department of Health and the Department of Education.\n\nObviously, this will be a key factor and integral to the work of the Executive in implementing further relaxation measures and implementing the economic recovery plan.\n\nThe Executive will take a collective approach therefore, to ensure that adequate childcare and daycare provision is in place, as soon as this is safe and practicable to do so, and this will be reflected in the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020.\n\nEmployment Rights\n\nWith regard to employment protection for employees and workers with caring responsibilities, Northern Ireland has strong and robust employment law, whereby all employees are protected by law against unfair treatment and dismissal.\n\nRedundancy is a form of dismissal, and where an employee is dismissed for exercising or trying to exercise a statutory employment right, they will have been automatically unfairly dismissed. An employee's statutory employment rights include but are not limited to:\n\n maternity, paternity or adoption leave\n\n parental leave\n\n time off for dependants\n\n the right to request flexible working arrangements\n\nEmployers must use a fair and objective way of selecting people to make redundant. If the reasons an employee is selected for redundancy are unfair then they will have been unfairly dismissed.\n\nAnyone who finds themselves in this position may consider contacting the Labour Relations Agency Workplace Information Service on 03300 555 300 for free, confidential and impartial information. In addition, the Law Centre NI provides free, independent, specialist legal advice on employment rights. The Law Centre can be contacted on their advice line on 028 9024 4401 or by email: employmentadvice@lawcentreni.org","answerHtml":"Relaxation of Restrictions and Economic Recovery
On 12th May 2020, the Executive announced and published a new phased five-stage plan for slowly moving out of lockdown; ‘Coronavirus Executive Approach to Decision Making’. The document sets out the approach the Executive will take when deciding how to ease restrictions in the future, as we move through the phases of relaxation to recovery.
It is for the Executive therefore, through the First and deputy First Minister’s Office, to determine when further relaxation measures will be permitted, including those related to the re-opening of employment sectors, and the subsequent return to work of employees.
Details, including the dates on which any further relaxations come into effect, will be provided on a regular basis, and the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 will be updated accordingly.
In making such decisions, the Executive Office will be guided by most up-to-date scientific evidence; the ability of the health service to cope; and the wider impacts on our health, society and the economy.
Further to this Executive announcement, my Department took the lead on a piece of work, focussed on economic recovery. Working with a number of key stakeholders, officials committed to developing a series of papers that would be presented to the Executive. These papers will outline initial thinking on how the economic recovery plan could materialise.
This will include consideration of safe working practices for individual sectors or working environments, the need for continued social distancing and flexible working in the foreseeable future, and the support, financial and otherwise that will be required to enable different businesses and employers to implement such.
My Department has now published the first of these papers; an analysis on how we can take our first steps to restart our economy safely. This is available at:
https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/charting-course-economy
My Department is not developing a Coronavirus economic strategy, and therefore, it is not deemed necessary to carry out an equality impact assessment
Childcare and Day care provision
Lead policy and operational responsibility for childcare and daycare provision in Northern Ireland resides with the Department of Health and the Department of Education.
Obviously, this will be a key factor and integral to the work of the Executive in implementing further relaxation measures and implementing the economic recovery plan.
The Executive will take a collective approach therefore, to ensure that adequate childcare and daycare provision is in place, as soon as this is safe and practicable to do so, and this will be reflected in the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020.
Employment Rights
With regard to employment protection for employees and workers with caring responsibilities, Northern Ireland has strong and robust employment law, whereby all employees are protected by law against unfair treatment and dismissal.
Redundancy is a form of dismissal, and where an employee is dismissed for exercising or trying to exercise a statutory employment right, they will have been automatically unfairly dismissed. An employee's statutory employment rights include but are not limited to:
maternity, paternity or adoption leave
parental leave
time off for dependants
the right to request flexible working arrangements
Employers must use a fair and objective way of selecting people to make redundant. If the reasons an employee is selected for redundancy are unfair then they will have been unfairly dismissed.
Anyone who finds themselves in this position may consider contacting the Labour Relations Agency Workplace Information Service on 03300 555 300 for free, confidential and impartial information. In addition, the Law Centre NI provides free, independent, specialist legal advice on employment rights. The Law Centre can be contacted on their advice line on 028 9024 4401 or by email: employmentadvice@lawcentreni.org
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204638%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302148","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302148"}},{"id":"302147","reference":"AQW 4637/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-09","answerBy":"2020-06-24","answered":"2020-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to confirm (i) when wraparound childcare will be allowed to be provided by schools; and (ii) when he will inform parents this childcare provision will be available.","answerText":"It is acknowledged that childcare is crucial as parents return to work. From Monday 8 June, childcare provision has been extended to those key workers who can currently access school places and also those parents who are returning to work in the wider retail sector in line with Executive decisions on reopening the economy. From 16 June, this also includes workers in the construction and manufacturing sectors.\n\nIn line with announcements made by the Executive on 18 June, as part of the Childcare Sector Recovery Plan, with effect from 29 June, there will no longer be a key worker definition for the purposes of childcare. This will allow parents who are returning to work in line with the Executive plans, to access childcare if they require it..\n\nThe Early Years teams working in the Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts are working as collaboratively and as quickly as possible with childcare providers to re-open their provision, this includes those providers offering wraparound services for school age children from August.\n\nSchools can be asked to facilitate childcare provision offered within schools where it is possible, however such decisions relating to the use of school premises are for the Board of Governors of each individual school. Arrangements should be made and agreed locally. Schools should have a written agreement in place with childcare providers for such arrangements and subject to any necessary Covid-19 health and safety requirements and specific Department of Health guidelines and approvals for provision of childcare .\n\nDE and DoH have also established a COVID-19 Childcare Reference Group with key representatives from the childcare sector. A Childcare Communications sub group has also been established with the intention of promoting effective communication with parents and the childcare sector.\n\nAll the relevant information in relation to Covid-19 and childcare, is available at the link below:\n\nhttps://www.familysupportni.gov.uk/Support/91/covid19-childcare-options-and-associated-guidance.\n\nI have asked my officials to develop proposals for potential summer scheme provision in schools for some school year groups during July on a voluntary basis. The proposals may include schools being open for all children going into years 5, 6, and 7 for a 2 week period in July. There may also be scope for virtual learning support for pupils going into Year 7. Any access within schools to School Age Childcare would have to comply with medical and scientific advice and health and safety requirements in relation to COVID-19, and would be subject to agreement by the Executive, schools and Trade Unions. Any decision on this would be communicated at the earliest possible opportunity. A survey issued to schools on 17 June which is being analysed, the findings of which will help to establish levels of interest amongst schools in providing summer schemes on an entirely voluntary basis.\n\nSchools participating in the 2020/21 Extended Schools (ES) programme can choose to offer various forms of wraparound support with the resources made available (£9.1m) including pastoral care, or additional learning and development activities before or after the standard school day. Whilst some elements of ES provision have still been possible during the Covid-19 pandemic, most has not taken place as it usually would.\n\nI have ensured that all extended schools will receive funding in 2020/21 at the same rate as last year to ensure that disadvantaged children and young people and their families continue to be supported at this critical time. Schools have been asked to consider what provision may be appropriate this year to best target those pupils most in need or at the greatest risk of underachievement. The particular support measures put in place will be determined by schools and clusters taking account of the evolving context and latest health guidelines.","answerHtml":"It is acknowledged that childcare is crucial as parents return to work. From Monday 8 June, childcare provision has been extended to those key workers who can currently access school places and also those parents who are returning to work in the wider retail sector in line with Executive decisions on reopening the economy. From 16 June, this also includes workers in the construction and manufacturing sectors.
In line with announcements made by the Executive on 18 June, as part of the Childcare Sector Recovery Plan, with effect from 29 June, there will no longer be a key worker definition for the purposes of childcare. This will allow parents who are returning to work in line with the Executive plans, to access childcare if they require it..
The Early Years teams working in the Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts are working as collaboratively and as quickly as possible with childcare providers to re-open their provision, this includes those providers offering wraparound services for school age children from August.
Schools can be asked to facilitate childcare provision offered within schools where it is possible, however such decisions relating to the use of school premises are for the Board of Governors of each individual school. Arrangements should be made and agreed locally. Schools should have a written agreement in place with childcare providers for such arrangements and subject to any necessary Covid-19 health and safety requirements and specific Department of Health guidelines and approvals for provision of childcare .
DE and DoH have also established a COVID-19 Childcare Reference Group with key representatives from the childcare sector. A Childcare Communications sub group has also been established with the intention of promoting effective communication with parents and the childcare sector.
All the relevant information in relation to Covid-19 and childcare, is available at the link below:
https://www.familysupportni.gov.uk/Support/91/covid19-childcare-options-and-associated-guidance.
I have asked my officials to develop proposals for potential summer scheme provision in schools for some school year groups during July on a voluntary basis. The proposals may include schools being open for all children going into years 5, 6, and 7 for a 2 week period in July. There may also be scope for virtual learning support for pupils going into Year 7. Any access within schools to School Age Childcare would have to comply with medical and scientific advice and health and safety requirements in relation to COVID-19, and would be subject to agreement by the Executive, schools and Trade Unions. Any decision on this would be communicated at the earliest possible opportunity. A survey issued to schools on 17 June which is being analysed, the findings of which will help to establish levels of interest amongst schools in providing summer schemes on an entirely voluntary basis.
Schools participating in the 2020/21 Extended Schools (ES) programme can choose to offer various forms of wraparound support with the resources made available (£9.1m) including pastoral care, or additional learning and development activities before or after the standard school day. Whilst some elements of ES provision have still been possible during the Covid-19 pandemic, most has not taken place as it usually would.
I have ensured that all extended schools will receive funding in 2020/21 at the same rate as last year to ensure that disadvantaged children and young people and their families continue to be supported at this critical time. Schools have been asked to consider what provision may be appropriate this year to best target those pupils most in need or at the greatest risk of underachievement. The particular support measures put in place will be determined by schools and clusters taking account of the evolving context and latest health guidelines.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204637%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302147","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302147"}},{"id":"301931","reference":"AQW 4552/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-05","answerBy":"2020-06-22","answered":"2020-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions she will take, and has taken, to ensure that Libraries NI builds upon its equality scheme by proactively including books and online resources promoting equality and equity for marginalised groups that are in urgent need of representation, such as black and minority ethnic communities, by specifically stocking resources on racism, colonialism and slavery.","answerText":"I will continue to encourage Libraries NI to build on their ongoing work promoting inclusion, particularly with reference to supporting equality and equity for all marginalised groups.\n\nLibraries NI’s vision is ‘a visible, accessible and inclusive library service at the heart of communities, enhancing lives and valued by all’. Libraries NI’s stock policy outlines that Libraries NI will provide access to a wide range of quality resources to meet the needs of the entire community.\n\nThe provision of, and access to, stock in a wide range of formats supports Libraries NI in promoting lifelong learning and creativity and fostering a better understanding of a shared community. In doing so it assists with both fostering a more equal society and developing a shared society that respects diversity.\n\nLibraries NI stock collection contains over 1,900 non-fiction titles on Civil Rights, Racism, Slavery and Discrimination. The titles include books for children, items in the curriculum support collections aimed at secondary school children, official publications, academic studies and general histories. In addition, there are many fiction titles that address issues of representation. Such titles are used in themed collections to support national promotions e.g. Black History Month, Holocaust Memorial Day as well as Libraries NI initiatives.\n\nLibraries NI collections hold titles by established and contemporary authors which look at the themes of race, diversity, colonialism and immigration. These works (along with other titles) are featured across the year both in branch promotions and online collections. An example of these promotions is the BBC campaign “The novels that shaped our world” in which 100 novels were divided into ten themes, one of which was identity. As part of this promotion, Libraries NI, featured these books in branches, online and with selected reading groups and via a podcast.\n\nLibraries NI staff attend information and networking forums and work collaboratively with other voluntary, community and statutory organisations. Specifically, the Good Relations and Targeting Social Exclusion Team within Libraries NI work closely with the following organisations:\n\nCommunity Relations Council – Good Relations Week and Decade of Centenaries\n\nBelfast Migrant Forum, Barnardo’s and the Red Cross\n\nBeyond Skin and Bryson Intercultural to provide multicultural information and musical events including Culture Day\n\nEnglish Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Groups including Adult and Children’s groups in Woodstock Library\n\nConway Education Centre to provide creative writing groups for teenagers and younger children from refugee communities\n\nLibraries NI is committed to marketing its services effectively and efficiently to ensure widespread uptake and the Libraries NI Equality Action Plan (Jan 2019) includes the target ‘to develop, deliver, facilitate and support programmes and activities which respect and celebrate cultural diversity and contribute to community cohesion including the provision of, and access to, material on the theme of cultural diversity and/or community cohesion’.","answerHtml":"I will continue to encourage Libraries NI to build on their ongoing work promoting inclusion, particularly with reference to supporting equality and equity for all marginalised groups.
Libraries NI’s vision is ‘a visible, accessible and inclusive library service at the heart of communities, enhancing lives and valued by all’. Libraries NI’s stock policy outlines that Libraries NI will provide access to a wide range of quality resources to meet the needs of the entire community.
The provision of, and access to, stock in a wide range of formats supports Libraries NI in promoting lifelong learning and creativity and fostering a better understanding of a shared community. In doing so it assists with both fostering a more equal society and developing a shared society that respects diversity.
Libraries NI stock collection contains over 1,900 non-fiction titles on Civil Rights, Racism, Slavery and Discrimination. The titles include books for children, items in the curriculum support collections aimed at secondary school children, official publications, academic studies and general histories. In addition, there are many fiction titles that address issues of representation. Such titles are used in themed collections to support national promotions e.g. Black History Month, Holocaust Memorial Day as well as Libraries NI initiatives.
Libraries NI collections hold titles by established and contemporary authors which look at the themes of race, diversity, colonialism and immigration. These works (along with other titles) are featured across the year both in branch promotions and online collections. An example of these promotions is the BBC campaign “The novels that shaped our world” in which 100 novels were divided into ten themes, one of which was identity. As part of this promotion, Libraries NI, featured these books in branches, online and with selected reading groups and via a podcast.
Libraries NI staff attend information and networking forums and work collaboratively with other voluntary, community and statutory organisations. Specifically, the Good Relations and Targeting Social Exclusion Team within Libraries NI work closely with the following organisations:
Community Relations Council – Good Relations Week and Decade of Centenaries
Belfast Migrant Forum, Barnardo’s and the Red Cross
Beyond Skin and Bryson Intercultural to provide multicultural information and musical events including Culture Day
English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Groups including Adult and Children’s groups in Woodstock Library
Conway Education Centre to provide creative writing groups for teenagers and younger children from refugee communities
Libraries NI is committed to marketing its services effectively and efficiently to ensure widespread uptake and the Libraries NI Equality Action Plan (Jan 2019) includes the target ‘to develop, deliver, facilitate and support programmes and activities which respect and celebrate cultural diversity and contribute to community cohesion including the provision of, and access to, material on the theme of cultural diversity and/or community cohesion’.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204552%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301931","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301931"}},{"id":"301602","reference":"AQW 4392/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-01","answerBy":"2020-06-16","answered":"2020-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to confirm what discussions he has had with HM Treasury and the Financial Conduct Authority to address the rising cost of business insurance when so many Northern Ireland companies have been unable to claim for loss of business from their business insurance; and what protections will be introduced to ensure the insurance industry will provide policies across the whole of the U.K. including Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I fully appreciate the concerns of businesses who have purchased insurance policies with the understanding that these would have covered them for the current interruption to their business, and who have seen their premiums rise while not being able to make a claim for the losses that have been incurred.\n\nMy department has been in contact with Treasury and the insurance industry throughout the current crisis to highlight the concerns of policyholders here. While the Executive have no powers in this sector, I will continue to call on the Treasury, its regulatory authorities, and the financial services industry to play their full part in treating businesses fairly and helping them in recovering from the devastating impacts of COVID-19.","answerHtml":"I fully appreciate the concerns of businesses who have purchased insurance policies with the understanding that these would have covered them for the current interruption to their business, and who have seen their premiums rise while not being able to make a claim for the losses that have been incurred.
My department has been in contact with Treasury and the insurance industry throughout the current crisis to highlight the concerns of policyholders here. While the Executive have no powers in this sector, I will continue to call on the Treasury, its regulatory authorities, and the financial services industry to play their full part in treating businesses fairly and helping them in recovering from the devastating impacts of COVID-19.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204392%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301602","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301602"}},{"id":"301298","reference":"AQW 4239/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-22","answerBy":"2020-06-09","answered":"2020-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the impact of the Withdrawal Agreement on the European Employment Services which provides information, advice and guidance on living and working in other European Economic Area member countries for the benefit of workers, as well as employers experiencing difficulty recruiting locally.","answerText":"The Withdrawal Agreement provides that a European Employment Service (EURES) will continue to operate until the end of the period of transition, 31 December 2020. EURES will continue to provide a normal service of support and guidance to employers and jobseekers to that date, including the availability of the European network of advisers, vacancies and employers, and will continue to share local vacancies to all other EU regions via the EURES portal.\n\nFrom January 2021, the EU freedom of movement, which allows the EURES service to operate, will no longer apply and citizens here will no longer have access to the EURES network and portal. This will result in vacancies here no longer being shared across Europe, and European vacancies no longer shared directly to citizens here.\n\nAs EURES operates under the European network for job mobility, as part of freedom of movement throughout the EU, this service will cease on 31 December 2020.","answerHtml":"The Withdrawal Agreement provides that a European Employment Service (EURES) will continue to operate until the end of the period of transition, 31 December 2020. EURES will continue to provide a normal service of support and guidance to employers and jobseekers to that date, including the availability of the European network of advisers, vacancies and employers, and will continue to share local vacancies to all other EU regions via the EURES portal.
From January 2021, the EU freedom of movement, which allows the EURES service to operate, will no longer apply and citizens here will no longer have access to the EURES network and portal. This will result in vacancies here no longer being shared across Europe, and European vacancies no longer shared directly to citizens here.
As EURES operates under the European network for job mobility, as part of freedom of movement throughout the EU, this service will cease on 31 December 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204239%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301298","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301298"}},{"id":"301297","reference":"AQW 4238/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-22","answerBy":"2020-06-09","answered":"2020-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how the people who are relying on the regular food hampers from her Department will be supported when provision ends in June 2020; and, if her Department plans to continue with provision of hampers, where will funding come from to meet ongoing cost.","answerText":"I am aware that a number of people across the community are currently relying on regular food hampers from my Department and are likely to continue to require support when present provision ends in June 2020.\n\nIn light of this, it has been decided that the Department’s food parcel programme should be extended until 31st July 2020 for people who have been asked to shield by their GPs and cannot otherwise get food. Those who are not medically shielding, but may still need food help, are now being signposted to alternative forms of food support in the community.\n\nThose no longer eligible are being signposted to other means of food support and the Department is now investing up to £875,000 in other forms of food assistance. This includes the Department working with Fareshare to deliver increased food supplies to community providers.\n\nI believe that these responses, when taken together with the Social Supermarket wrap around model and the work of local Foodbanks, have the potential to play an important role in the food poverty response in the medium to long term. The learning, intelligence and data being gathered as a result of the Food Parcel programme will also prove invaluable in this regard and in ongoing and future policy development.","answerHtml":"I am aware that a number of people across the community are currently relying on regular food hampers from my Department and are likely to continue to require support when present provision ends in June 2020.
In light of this, it has been decided that the Department’s food parcel programme should be extended until 31st July 2020 for people who have been asked to shield by their GPs and cannot otherwise get food. Those who are not medically shielding, but may still need food help, are now being signposted to alternative forms of food support in the community.
Those no longer eligible are being signposted to other means of food support and the Department is now investing up to £875,000 in other forms of food assistance. This includes the Department working with Fareshare to deliver increased food supplies to community providers.
I believe that these responses, when taken together with the Social Supermarket wrap around model and the work of local Foodbanks, have the potential to play an important role in the food poverty response in the medium to long term. The learning, intelligence and data being gathered as a result of the Food Parcel programme will also prove invaluable in this regard and in ongoing and future policy development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204238%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301297","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301297"}},{"id":"301044","reference":"AQW 4134/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-15","answerBy":"2020-06-02","answered":"2020-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, following the publication of the Northern Ireland poverty bulletin 2018/19 released by her Department on 14 May 2020, to provide a written plan of the actions that she will take in 2020/2021 to reduce the growing number of children and older people in poverty.","answerText":"I am currently considering a draft plan and timetable outlining the co-design and co-production approach to the development of an Anti-Poverty and Child Poverty Strategy as outlined in New Decade, New Approach. I will be engaging with the Executive and the Communities Committee at key stages in the development of this work.\n\nMy Department is responsible for compiling a Child Poverty Annual Report which describes the actions implemented across departments to ensure that, as far as possible, children do not experience socio-economic disadvantage. The Annual Reports can be accessed on the Department’s website https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications.","answerHtml":"I am currently considering a draft plan and timetable outlining the co-design and co-production approach to the development of an Anti-Poverty and Child Poverty Strategy as outlined in New Decade, New Approach. I will be engaging with the Executive and the Communities Committee at key stages in the development of this work.
My Department is responsible for compiling a Child Poverty Annual Report which describes the actions implemented across departments to ensure that, as far as possible, children do not experience socio-economic disadvantage. The Annual Reports can be accessed on the Department’s website https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204134%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301044","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301044"}},{"id":"301043","reference":"AQW 4133/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-15","answerBy":"2020-06-02","answered":"2020-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, in relation to her statement of 13 May 2020 on the suspension of recovery of benefit overpayments and loans, whether repayment terms will be renegotiated with customers; and whether the repayment term can be extended and spread over at least 12 months to help people financially recover from the COVID-19 crisis.","answerText":"The suspension of recovery of benefit overpayments and loans will go some way to easing the financial difficulty that many people find themselves in during this period of uncertainty.\n\nRepayments will be restarted at the rate which was in place at the time of cessation, however in line with normal arrangements people are able to contact the department at any time to discuss alternative payment arrangements or rates of repayment, if they are experiencing hardship. We will be taking a range of steps to ensure people are aware that they can contact the department if they are experiencing any difficulties with repayment rates We will also be publishing this information and guidance on NI Direct and on the Department for Communities website.\n\nFor the majority of people repaying loans and overpayments to the departments, the repayment period already extends well beyond 12 months.","answerHtml":"The suspension of recovery of benefit overpayments and loans will go some way to easing the financial difficulty that many people find themselves in during this period of uncertainty.
Repayments will be restarted at the rate which was in place at the time of cessation, however in line with normal arrangements people are able to contact the department at any time to discuss alternative payment arrangements or rates of repayment, if they are experiencing hardship. We will be taking a range of steps to ensure people are aware that they can contact the department if they are experiencing any difficulties with repayment rates We will also be publishing this information and guidance on NI Direct and on the Department for Communities website.
For the majority of people repaying loans and overpayments to the departments, the repayment period already extends well beyond 12 months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204133%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301043","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301043"}},{"id":"300766","reference":"AQW 4021/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-06","answerBy":"2020-05-22","answered":"2020-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what action she has taken, or plans to take, to ensure that the Community and Voluntary Sector will be able to survive the reduction in income as a result of COVID-19 and is in a financial position to deliver community services vital to the community coming out of lockdown; and when a community contingency fund will be made available to help sustain this sector.","answerText":"I am pleased to say that the Executive’s Covid-19 Charities Fund opened for applications on Monday 15 June 2020. I believe that this Fund will help many charities survive the reduction in income so that they can continue to provide services vital to our community.\n\nMinister Hargey also established hardship funds to assist our creative and sports sectors.\n\nI am committed to supporting grassroots organisations as they respond to this crisis by supporting those who are most vulnerable and isolated. I am aware that Minister Hargey also launched a COVID Community Support Fund in early April 2020 which continues to be distributed by local councils to grassroots organisations.\n\nThe community and voluntary sector continues to be absolutely vital in helping our society to get through these trying times and will have an important part to play in the recovery phase.","answerHtml":"I am pleased to say that the Executive’s Covid-19 Charities Fund opened for applications on Monday 15 June 2020. I believe that this Fund will help many charities survive the reduction in income so that they can continue to provide services vital to our community.
Minister Hargey also established hardship funds to assist our creative and sports sectors.
I am committed to supporting grassroots organisations as they respond to this crisis by supporting those who are most vulnerable and isolated. I am aware that Minister Hargey also launched a COVID Community Support Fund in early April 2020 which continues to be distributed by local councils to grassroots organisations.
The community and voluntary sector continues to be absolutely vital in helping our society to get through these trying times and will have an important part to play in the recovery phase.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204021%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=300766","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=300766"}},{"id":"300765","reference":"AQW 4020/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-06","answerBy":"2020-05-22","answered":"2020-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) for an update on Dormant Accounts; (ii) how much money has been identified through the scheme; and (iii) what plans he has to ensure that this money is used effectively by social economy and the community and voluntary sector.","answerText":"The Dormant Accounts Fund now totals £20.5 million. The Fund will be used to support third sector organisations as they emerge from the COVID-19 crisis in line with the themes of resilience, capacity and sustainability as originally identified.\n\nIn September 2019, the Department of Finance, directed the National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF), to establish a Dormant Accounts Scheme. The NLCF has consulted with Stakeholders to inform a Strategic Plan which will set out how this money is used effectively by social economy and the community and voluntary sector.\n\nAlongside its work as part of the COVID-19 response, the Lottery is continuing to develop its Strategic Plan, which will be laid by my Department in the Assembly in due course, with the Fund open to applications thereafter.","answerHtml":"The Dormant Accounts Fund now totals £20.5 million. The Fund will be used to support third sector organisations as they emerge from the COVID-19 crisis in line with the themes of resilience, capacity and sustainability as originally identified.
In September 2019, the Department of Finance, directed the National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF), to establish a Dormant Accounts Scheme. The NLCF has consulted with Stakeholders to inform a Strategic Plan which will set out how this money is used effectively by social economy and the community and voluntary sector.
Alongside its work as part of the COVID-19 response, the Lottery is continuing to develop its Strategic Plan, which will be laid by my Department in the Assembly in due course, with the Fund open to applications thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204020%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=300765","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=300765"}},{"id":"300642","reference":"AQW 3951/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-04-30","answerBy":"2020-05-18","answered":"2020-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the communications she and her departmental officials have had with the Minister for Economy on when the current exclusion of the sports sector from the £10,000 small business grants for the purposes of COVID-19 will be lifted; and when sporting clubs will have access to the £25,000 leisure, tourism and hospitality grants.","answerText":"I can advise that on 3 April 2020, Minister Hargey wrote to the Minister for the Economy, Diane Dodds MLA, asking that she consider including sporting businesses, such as Governing Bodies and clubs, in the Small Business Support Grant Scheme and to ensure that larger entities, that fall into the relevant NAV threshold, could apply to the Retail, Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure fund.\n\nMinister Dodds advised in a letter to the Executive on 15 April, that she intended to include the sports businesses in the £25,000 scheme. The sports sector remains excluded from the Small Business Support Grant.\n\nMy officials have engaged on a regular basis with colleagues in the Department for Economy (DfE) in relation to the various COVID-19 relief grant schemes. That engagement will continue around identifying potential gaps where businesses, including Governing Bodies and clubs, are not eligible for any form of financial support.","answerHtml":"I can advise that on 3 April 2020, Minister Hargey wrote to the Minister for the Economy, Diane Dodds MLA, asking that she consider including sporting businesses, such as Governing Bodies and clubs, in the Small Business Support Grant Scheme and to ensure that larger entities, that fall into the relevant NAV threshold, could apply to the Retail, Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure fund.
Minister Dodds advised in a letter to the Executive on 15 April, that she intended to include the sports businesses in the £25,000 scheme. The sports sector remains excluded from the Small Business Support Grant.
My officials have engaged on a regular basis with colleagues in the Department for Economy (DfE) in relation to the various COVID-19 relief grant schemes. That engagement will continue around identifying potential gaps where businesses, including Governing Bodies and clubs, are not eligible for any form of financial support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203951%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=300642","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=300642"}},{"id":"300641","reference":"AQW 3950/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-04-30","answerBy":"2020-05-18","answered":"2020-05-18","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) when the current exclusion of the sports sector, in respect of the £10,000 small business grants, will be lifted for the purposes of COVID-19; and (ii) when sports clubs will have access to the £25,000 leisure, tourism and hospitality grants.","answerText":"(i) The Small Business Support Grant scheme is open to all businesses who are in receipt of Small Business Rates Relief (SBRR) or Industrial Derating and have a Total Net Annual Value of £15,000 or below. The scheme does not specifically exclude the sports sector but it is possible that many in this sector may receive Sport and Recreation Rate Relief rather than SBRR or Industrial Derating, which would subsequently exclude them from the grant scheme. The rating system has been used as a means to quickly identify businesses and to pay grants. At present there are no plans to extend the scheme to cover businesses who receive Sport and Recreation Rate Relief.\n\n(ii) Sports clubs are eligible for the £25,000 Business Support Grant scheme for the retail, hospitality, tourism and leisure sectors if they have a Total Net Annual Value (NAV) of between £15,001 and £51,000, subject to some exclusions.\n\nFurther information on the schemes is available at https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/campaign/coronavirus-updates-support-your-business.\n\nThe Department for Communities has responsibility for sport. Minister Hargey has announced that sports clubs and sporting organisations from the voluntary and community sector, which are unable to receive support from other Government Covid-19 Mitigation Funds, will be able to apply to Sport NI for a small grant of £2,000 to help with immediate financial commitments to maintain their facilities during the Covid-19 restrictions. More information on this is available at www.sportni.net/funding/our-funding-programmes/sports-hardship-fund","answerHtml":"(i) The Small Business Support Grant scheme is open to all businesses who are in receipt of Small Business Rates Relief (SBRR) or Industrial Derating and have a Total Net Annual Value of £15,000 or below. The scheme does not specifically exclude the sports sector but it is possible that many in this sector may receive Sport and Recreation Rate Relief rather than SBRR or Industrial Derating, which would subsequently exclude them from the grant scheme. The rating system has been used as a means to quickly identify businesses and to pay grants. At present there are no plans to extend the scheme to cover businesses who receive Sport and Recreation Rate Relief.
(ii) Sports clubs are eligible for the £25,000 Business Support Grant scheme for the retail, hospitality, tourism and leisure sectors if they have a Total Net Annual Value (NAV) of between £15,001 and £51,000, subject to some exclusions.
Further information on the schemes is available at https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/campaign/coronavirus-updates-support-your-business.
The Department for Communities has responsibility for sport. Minister Hargey has announced that sports clubs and sporting organisations from the voluntary and community sector, which are unable to receive support from other Government Covid-19 Mitigation Funds, will be able to apply to Sport NI for a small grant of £2,000 to help with immediate financial commitments to maintain their facilities during the Covid-19 restrictions. More information on this is available at www.sportni.net/funding/our-funding-programmes/sports-hardship-fund
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203950%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=300641","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=300641"}},{"id":"299293","reference":"AQW 3786/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-18","answerBy":"2020-04-02","answered":"2020-04-27","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 provide her assessment of the broadband capabilities across Northern Ireland and whether it will be able to meet the needs of employees and exam students who are working from home during the COVID-19 delay phase.","answerText":"Telecoms is a reserved matter led by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in Westminster. DCMS is responsible for responding to concerns about the security and resilience of UK networks, incident management and preparedness for the continuity of service for the telecoms sector.\n\nDCMS advises that the telecoms industry is well experienced in managing surges in internet usage, and expects to be able to do so in the event of an increase in home working.\n\nThe Department for the Economy is a member of the UK’s Electronic Communications Resilience and Response Group (ECRRG). This group is comprised of representatives from all the major UK telecoms providers, DCMS, Ofcom, Cabinet Office, the wider UK Government, and the Devolved Administrations.\n\nAll networks are operating as expected. DCMS and ECRRG monitor the networks’ operations closely and continuously and will update DfE as and when necessary.","answerHtml":"Telecoms is a reserved matter led by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in Westminster. DCMS is responsible for responding to concerns about the security and resilience of UK networks, incident management and preparedness for the continuity of service for the telecoms sector.
DCMS advises that the telecoms industry is well experienced in managing surges in internet usage, and expects to be able to do so in the event of an increase in home working.
The Department for the Economy is a member of the UK’s Electronic Communications Resilience and Response Group (ECRRG). This group is comprised of representatives from all the major UK telecoms providers, DCMS, Ofcom, Cabinet Office, the wider UK Government, and the Devolved Administrations.
All networks are operating as expected. DCMS and ECRRG monitor the networks’ operations closely and continuously and will update DfE as and when necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203786%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299293","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299293"}},{"id":"299292","reference":"AQW 3785/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-18","answerBy":"2020-04-02","answered":"2020-04-30","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 confirm what actions she will take to ensure employers of people with disabilities on work programmes or apprenticeships will be appropriately supported and guidance provided to ensure they understand why they may be asked not to attend work or to work from home during the COVID-19 delay phase.","answerText":"My department has separate contracts with Disability Support Services who work closely with the Training Contractors, Apprentices and their employers to provide support as appropriate to the apprentice’s individual need while they are in the classroom or directed training environment.\n\nThis support includes mentoring on a one to one basis to increase and improve an apprentice’s confidence, self-esteem and value, enabling them to progress within their training.\n\nThis support would include guidance as appropriate from their mentor / support worker as to why they may not be able to attend work or work from home during the COVID-19 delay phase.\n\nMy Department has encouraged Disability Support Service providers to work with their partner Training Organisations to identify ways that Apprentices requiring support can continue to be engaged and supported remotely during this period when face-to-face training has been suspended due to COVID-19.\n\nAs the apprentices are in employment when they start on the programme the in work support comes under the remit of the Department for Communities through its disability programmes.\n\nMy Department has provided information for employers and employees on the support available using the following web links.\n\nhttps://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/coronavirus-covid-19-apprenticeship-guidance-employers\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-workers","answerHtml":"My department has separate contracts with Disability Support Services who work closely with the Training Contractors, Apprentices and their employers to provide support as appropriate to the apprentice’s individual need while they are in the classroom or directed training environment.
This support includes mentoring on a one to one basis to increase and improve an apprentice’s confidence, self-esteem and value, enabling them to progress within their training.
This support would include guidance as appropriate from their mentor / support worker as to why they may not be able to attend work or work from home during the COVID-19 delay phase.
My Department has encouraged Disability Support Service providers to work with their partner Training Organisations to identify ways that Apprentices requiring support can continue to be engaged and supported remotely during this period when face-to-face training has been suspended due to COVID-19.
As the apprentices are in employment when they start on the programme the in work support comes under the remit of the Department for Communities through its disability programmes.
My Department has provided information for employers and employees on the support available using the following web links.
https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/coronavirus-covid-19-apprenticeship-guidance-employers
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-workers
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203785%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299292","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299292"}},{"id":"299290","reference":"AQW 3783/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-18","answerBy":"2020-04-02","answered":"2020-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what communication channels her Department will use to promote how the public can to apply for financial crisis support during COVID-19 pandemic.","answerText":"Information on how the public can apply for financial crisis support and benefits during the COVID 19 pandemic is published on nidirect www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-and-benefits and\n\non the DfC website https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/landing-pages/covid-19-service-updates These are kept updated and the links have been shared with MLAs, the Advice Sector and stakeholders.\n\nThe Department also uses Ministerial media interviews, Press Releases, the Departmental twitter page and the Jobs&BenefitsNI facebook page to signpost the public to the most recent benefit and financial crisis support information.\n\nUniversal Credit information is also available through a range of digital channels including Facebook, Spotify, Google search and the Google Display Network. Information is available online at www.nidirect.gov.uk/universalcredit and this includes short videos to explain Universal Credit and how to apply.\n\nMy Department also set up a freephone Covid 19 Community Helpline at the end of March 2020 to assist those in vulnerable groups to access information, advice and support in relation to COVID-19 and this included those needing financial crisis support. The Helpline is managed by Advice NI and operates Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. The Helpline number is 0808 802 0020. Alternatively text ACTION to 81025 or email: Covid19@adviceni.net or complete a form on the Advice NI website.","answerHtml":"Information on how the public can apply for financial crisis support and benefits during the COVID 19 pandemic is published on nidirect www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-and-benefits and
on the DfC website https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/landing-pages/covid-19-service-updates These are kept updated and the links have been shared with MLAs, the Advice Sector and stakeholders.
The Department also uses Ministerial media interviews, Press Releases, the Departmental twitter page and the Jobs&BenefitsNI facebook page to signpost the public to the most recent benefit and financial crisis support information.
Universal Credit information is also available through a range of digital channels including Facebook, Spotify, Google search and the Google Display Network. Information is available online at www.nidirect.gov.uk/universalcredit and this includes short videos to explain Universal Credit and how to apply.
My Department also set up a freephone Covid 19 Community Helpline at the end of March 2020 to assist those in vulnerable groups to access information, advice and support in relation to COVID-19 and this included those needing financial crisis support. The Helpline is managed by Advice NI and operates Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. The Helpline number is 0808 802 0020. Alternatively text ACTION to 81025 or email: Covid19@adviceni.net or complete a form on the Advice NI website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203783%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299290","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299290"}},{"id":"299289","reference":"AQW 3782/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-18","answerBy":"2020-04-02","answered":"2020-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what actions she will take to ensure people with disabilities on work programmes or apprenticeships will be appropriately supported and have guidance provided to ensure they all understand why they may be asked not to attend work or to work from home during the COVID-19 delay phase.","answerText":"My Department is fully committed to supporting people with disabilities and health conditions progress towards, move into and stay in employment. We do this through a number of disability programmes and we are working with all our programme contractors to ensure participants have been provided with all the information they need whilst working or remaining at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\nThe Department is in daily contact with contractors, by email and telephone, to answer their queries and provide advice on specific situations as and when they arise. The situation continues to monitored to ensure communications remain current and in line with government advice. The Department continues to financially support those contractors delivering our disability programmes during the COVID 19 pandemic.","answerHtml":"My Department is fully committed to supporting people with disabilities and health conditions progress towards, move into and stay in employment. We do this through a number of disability programmes and we are working with all our programme contractors to ensure participants have been provided with all the information they need whilst working or remaining at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Department is in daily contact with contractors, by email and telephone, to answer their queries and provide advice on specific situations as and when they arise. The situation continues to monitored to ensure communications remain current and in line with government advice. The Department continues to financially support those contractors delivering our disability programmes during the COVID 19 pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203782%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299289","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299289"}},{"id":"298644","reference":"AQW 3574/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-12","answerBy":"2020-03-30","answered":"2020-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether all the measures outlined in the Chancellor’s budget, regarding social security due to the coronavirus outbreak, will also be implemented in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The following measures relating to Statutory Sick Pay (SPP), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Universal Credit (UC) have been introduced here with effect from 13 March 2020 with the intention of financially assisting those who need to self-isolate for medical reasons and to inhibit the spread of the virus, thereby protecting others -\n\nthose who need to self-isolate for medical reasons to protect others are treated as being ill. They do not need to go to a GP.\n\nthere will be a temporary removal of the 3 day waiting period for SSP and compensation in respect of the employers liability for sick pay will be made available.\n\nthe removal of the 7 waiting days for people who make a new claim for ESA due to public health emergency restrictions arising from the Covid-19 outbreak.\n\nfor ESA and UC, treating those affected as having limited capability for work from the outset without a fit note, an assessment or some form of statutory public health notice. The effect of this will be that any work related requirements will be switched off. For self-employed claimants, this will include the ‘Minimum Income Floor’. Some claimants will also gain access to a work allowance, and, if they have a partner who is working, access to help with childcare costs.\n\npeople who are self-isolating in response to the Public Health Advice are eligible for SSP.\n\nAdditionally, anyone who finds themselves in a crisis situation can apply to the Discretionary Support Scheme for assistance with short-term living expenses. Discretionary Support is available to people in employment as long as their income does not exceed £16,286 per year.","answerHtml":"The following measures relating to Statutory Sick Pay (SPP), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Universal Credit (UC) have been introduced here with effect from 13 March 2020 with the intention of financially assisting those who need to self-isolate for medical reasons and to inhibit the spread of the virus, thereby protecting others -
those who need to self-isolate for medical reasons to protect others are treated as being ill. They do not need to go to a GP.
there will be a temporary removal of the 3 day waiting period for SSP and compensation in respect of the employers liability for sick pay will be made available.
the removal of the 7 waiting days for people who make a new claim for ESA due to public health emergency restrictions arising from the Covid-19 outbreak.
for ESA and UC, treating those affected as having limited capability for work from the outset without a fit note, an assessment or some form of statutory public health notice. The effect of this will be that any work related requirements will be switched off. For self-employed claimants, this will include the ‘Minimum Income Floor’. Some claimants will also gain access to a work allowance, and, if they have a partner who is working, access to help with childcare costs.
people who are self-isolating in response to the Public Health Advice are eligible for SSP.
Additionally, anyone who finds themselves in a crisis situation can apply to the Discretionary Support Scheme for assistance with short-term living expenses. Discretionary Support is available to people in employment as long as their income does not exceed £16,286 per year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203574%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298644","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298644"}},{"id":"298738","reference":"AQO 398/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-12","answerBy":"2020-03-24","answered":null,"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, in light of the 2019 Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime Northern Ireland report, whether his Department has any plans to address raptor persecution.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20398%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298738","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298738"}},{"id":"299722","reference":"AQO 398/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-12","answerBy":"2020-03-24","answered":"2020-03-27","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, in light of the 2019 Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime Northern Ireland report, whether his Department has any plans to address raptor persecution.","answerText":"Several DAERA business units are actively involved in the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime Northern Ireland (PAW NI). The forum is co-chaired by NIEA and PSNI. It takes the lead in highlighting issues associated with wildlife crime across Northern Ireland, using its large potential audience to communicate the anti-wildlife crime message.\n\nThe Raptor Persecution report highlights the impacts of illegal activity on birds of prey – such activities include shooting, poisoning and nest disturbance or destruction. It is likely that the extent of this is under-recorded as there is a low probability of carcasses being found.\n\nThe PSNI are the lead enforcement body. DAERA staff have joined the PSNI on operations aimed at disrupting wildlife criminals, and are examining new approaches to educate the public and to make it easier to secure evidence for certain offences. They also work closely with the Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group, through NIEA-administered Environment Fund monies, to monitor bird of prey populations, and the nests of the most vulnerable species.","answerHtml":"Several DAERA business units are actively involved in the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime Northern Ireland (PAW NI). The forum is co-chaired by NIEA and PSNI. It takes the lead in highlighting issues associated with wildlife crime across Northern Ireland, using its large potential audience to communicate the anti-wildlife crime message.
The Raptor Persecution report highlights the impacts of illegal activity on birds of prey – such activities include shooting, poisoning and nest disturbance or destruction. It is likely that the extent of this is under-recorded as there is a low probability of carcasses being found.
The PSNI are the lead enforcement body. DAERA staff have joined the PSNI on operations aimed at disrupting wildlife criminals, and are examining new approaches to educate the public and to make it easier to secure evidence for certain offences. They also work closely with the Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group, through NIEA-administered Environment Fund monies, to monitor bird of prey populations, and the nests of the most vulnerable species.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20398%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299722","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299722"}},{"id":"298732","reference":"AQO 392/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-12","answerBy":"2020-03-23","answered":null,"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 introduce an offence of controlling or coercive behaviour.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20392%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298732","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298732"}},{"id":"299679","reference":"AQO 392/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-12","answerBy":"2020-03-23","answered":"2020-04-16","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 her plans to introduce an offence of controlling or coercive behaviour.","answerText":"The Domestic Abuse and Family Proceedings Bill received Executive approval on 16 March.\n\nWhile I had previously indicated that the Bill would be introduced in April or May work took place at an accelerated pace to allow the Bill to be introduced on Tuesday 31 March. This is a significant step forward in our efforts to criminalise patterns of psychological and emotionally harmful behaviour through the creation of a domestic abuse offence.\n\nWhile I have indicated to the Assembly that Royal Assent may be secured around April/May 2021, with the goodwill of the Committee in considering the Bill expediently, I would hope to be in a position to secure Royal Assent before this.\n\nMy officials continue to have discussions with operational and voluntary sector partners in relation to operationalisation of the new offence, as well as colleagues elsewhere to identify lessons learned. The advice from other local jurisdictions has been that a 9-12 month period is needed, however, my Department, along with our statutory and voluntary sector partners, will do all that we can to ensure that the introductory timeframe is kept to the minimum needed.","answerHtml":"The Domestic Abuse and Family Proceedings Bill received Executive approval on 16 March.
While I had previously indicated that the Bill would be introduced in April or May work took place at an accelerated pace to allow the Bill to be introduced on Tuesday 31 March. This is a significant step forward in our efforts to criminalise patterns of psychological and emotionally harmful behaviour through the creation of a domestic abuse offence.
While I have indicated to the Assembly that Royal Assent may be secured around April/May 2021, with the goodwill of the Committee in considering the Bill expediently, I would hope to be in a position to secure Royal Assent before this.
My officials continue to have discussions with operational and voluntary sector partners in relation to operationalisation of the new offence, as well as colleagues elsewhere to identify lessons learned. The advice from other local jurisdictions has been that a 9-12 month period is needed, however, my Department, along with our statutory and voluntary sector partners, will do all that we can to ensure that the introductory timeframe is kept to the minimum needed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20392%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299679"}},{"id":"298218","reference":"AQW 3427/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-10","answerBy":"2020-03-26","answered":"2020-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for her assessment of the number of teachers that will need to be trained for the education sector in (i) 2020-21; and (ii) for 2021-23.","answerText":"Following consultation with the Department for the Economy (DfE), I have decided to retain intakes to Initial Teacher Education (ITE) courses at the current level for the 2020/21 academic year, as set out below.\n\nSetting the level of ITE intakes for 2021/22 and 2022/23 will be taken following consideration of a number of factors, including DfE’s budget allocation for these years, statistical information provided from my Department’s Teacher Demand Model and wider policy considerations.\n\n2020/21 APPROVED INTAKES\n\nPhase\tPrimary\tPost Primary\nRoute\tBEd\tPGCE\tPGCE IME\tPGCE Early Years\tBEd\tPGCE\tPGCE IME\tTOTALS\nStranmillis\t95\t-\t-\t15\t50\t-\t-\t160\nSt Mary’s\t94*\t-\t20\t-\t50\t-\t-\t164\nQUB\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\t134\t4\t138\nUU\t-\t33\t-\t-\t-\t80\t4\t117\nTotal by route\t189\t33\t20\t15\t100\t214\t8\t579\nTotals by phase\t257\t322\t579\n\n* St Mary’s University College BEd primary intake figure includes 18 Irishmedium places which will give an overall primary Irish-medium intake of 38.","answerHtml":"Following consultation with the Department for the Economy (DfE), I have decided to retain intakes to Initial Teacher Education (ITE) courses at the current level for the 2020/21 academic year, as set out below.
Setting the level of ITE intakes for 2021/22 and 2022/23 will be taken following consideration of a number of factors, including DfE’s budget allocation for these years, statistical information provided from my Department’s Teacher Demand Model and wider policy considerations.
2020/21 APPROVED INTAKES
| Phase | Primary | Post Primary | ||||||
| Route | BEd | PGCE | PGCE IME | PGCE Early Years | BEd | PGCE | PGCE IME | TOTALS |
| Stranmillis | 95 | - | - | 15 | 50 | - | - | 160 |
| St Mary’s | 94* | - | 20 | - | 50 | - | - | 164 |
| QUB | - | - | - | - | - | 134 | 4 | 138 |
| UU | - | 33 | - | - | - | 80 | 4 | 117 |
| Total by route | 189 | 33 | 20 | 15 | 100 | 214 | 8 | 579 |
| Totals by phase | 257 | 322 | 579 |
* St Mary’s University College BEd primary intake figure includes 18 Irishmedium places which will give an overall primary Irish-medium intake of 38.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203427%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298218","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298218"}},{"id":"298217","reference":"AQW 3426/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-10","answerBy":"2020-03-26","answered":"2020-07-10","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 her Department’s Private Rented Sector in Northern Ireland - Proposals for Change paper; and what action she intends to take to implement its recommendations.","answerText":"Housing, and in particular the role and regulation of the Private Rented Sector, is one of my priorities. My Department’s consultation exercise on proposals for change to the role and regulation of the private rented sector ended on 3 April 2017. The Department is currently carrying out a comprehensive review of the role and regulation of the private rented sector to ensure the regulatory framework and supporting policy improve standards for the benefit of both tenants and landlords. The areas being reviewed include:\n\nSupply\n\nAffordability\n\nSecurity of tenure\n\nTenancy management\n\nProperty standards\n\nDispute resolution\n\nI am currently considering how to take forward the recommendations in that review, and what other measures may be necessary.","answerHtml":"Housing, and in particular the role and regulation of the Private Rented Sector, is one of my priorities. My Department’s consultation exercise on proposals for change to the role and regulation of the private rented sector ended on 3 April 2017. The Department is currently carrying out a comprehensive review of the role and regulation of the private rented sector to ensure the regulatory framework and supporting policy improve standards for the benefit of both tenants and landlords. The areas being reviewed include:
Supply
Affordability
Security of tenure
Tenancy management
Property standards
Dispute resolution
I am currently considering how to take forward the recommendations in that review, and what other measures may be necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203426%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298217","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298217"}},{"id":"298216","reference":"AQW 3425/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-10","answerBy":"2020-03-26","answered":"2020-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for her assessment of electrical safety standards in the private rented sector.","answerText":"The Department is currently carrying out a comprehensive review of the role and regulation of the private rented sector to ensure the regulatory framework and supporting policy improve standards for the benefit of both tenants and landlords.\n\nI am currently considering 16 proposals for change. One of these is to make it a mandatory requirement for private landlords to carry out periodic electrical checks.","answerHtml":"The Department is currently carrying out a comprehensive review of the role and regulation of the private rented sector to ensure the regulatory framework and supporting policy improve standards for the benefit of both tenants and landlords.
I am currently considering 16 proposals for change. One of these is to make it a mandatory requirement for private landlords to carry out periodic electrical checks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203425%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298216","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298216"}},{"id":"298215","reference":"AQW 3424/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-10","answerBy":"2020-03-26","answered":"2020-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what steps her Department is taking to improve electrical safety in the private rented sector.","answerText":"The Department is currently carrying out a comprehensive review of the role and regulation of the private rented sector to ensure the regulatory framework and supporting policy improve standards for the benefit of both tenants and landlords.\n\nI am currently considering 16 proposals for change. One of these is to make it a mandatory requirement for private landlords to carry out periodic electrical checks.","answerHtml":"The Department is currently carrying out a comprehensive review of the role and regulation of the private rented sector to ensure the regulatory framework and supporting policy improve standards for the benefit of both tenants and landlords.
I am currently considering 16 proposals for change. One of these is to make it a mandatory requirement for private landlords to carry out periodic electrical checks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203424%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298215","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298215"}},{"id":"298214","reference":"AQW 3423/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-10","answerBy":"2020-03-26","answered":"2020-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many people on Universal Credit have received sanctions due to their inability to use online services or lack of access to online services; and whether she will consider updating the system to contact people before sanctions are imposed to check the person is able to use and access online services.","answerText":"Information on the number of sanctions imposed for Universal Credit, together with the reasons for imposing the sanction is available in reports on my Department’s website at the following link: -\n\nhttps://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/welfare-supplementary-payments-discretionary-support-standards-advice-assistance-and-sanctions.\n\nWhen someone claiming UC has been unable to fulfil a particular conditionality commitment a number of attempts will be made to contact them, including by telephone, to establish why they were unable to do so. Consideration will also be given as to whether the person is vulnerable or has complex needs. If the case is then referred for a sanction and prior to the decision being made, the Decision Maker will also attempt to phone the person to again confirm whether there is any vulnerability or reason why they were unable to engage with us at that time.\n\nWhilst conditionality is a key part of the existing rules, I want to further explore how we can use that to incentivise rather than punish people, and to make sure we have the necessary safeguards in place to protect the most vulnerable and particularly those with underlying health conditions.\n\nI plan to make further announcements about this in the time ahead.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of sanctions imposed for Universal Credit, together with the reasons for imposing the sanction is available in reports on my Department’s website at the following link: -
https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/welfare-supplementary-payments-discretionary-support-standards-advice-assistance-and-sanctions.
When someone claiming UC has been unable to fulfil a particular conditionality commitment a number of attempts will be made to contact them, including by telephone, to establish why they were unable to do so. Consideration will also be given as to whether the person is vulnerable or has complex needs. If the case is then referred for a sanction and prior to the decision being made, the Decision Maker will also attempt to phone the person to again confirm whether there is any vulnerability or reason why they were unable to engage with us at that time.
Whilst conditionality is a key part of the existing rules, I want to further explore how we can use that to incentivise rather than punish people, and to make sure we have the necessary safeguards in place to protect the most vulnerable and particularly those with underlying health conditions.
I plan to make further announcements about this in the time ahead.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203423%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298214","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298214"}},{"id":"297887","reference":"AQW 3269/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-06","answerBy":"2020-03-24","answered":"2020-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to discuss the gap in support for people moved from legacy benefits onto Universal Credit, given the welcomed ‘run on’ for people on Universal Credit who reach State Pension Age, as announced 5 March 2020.","answerText":"I have not yet had an opportunity for discussion. Since April 2018 all those in receipt of Housing Benefit whose Housing Benefit award was ended because of a new claim to Universal Credit have been awarded a two-week Transition to Universal Credit Housing Payment.\n\nThis transitional protection will be extended from July 2020 when people will receive an additional two weeks of Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance and income-related Employment and Support Allowance if they receive one of these benefits when moving to Universal Credit.","answerHtml":"I have not yet had an opportunity for discussion. Since April 2018 all those in receipt of Housing Benefit whose Housing Benefit award was ended because of a new claim to Universal Credit have been awarded a two-week Transition to Universal Credit Housing Payment.
This transitional protection will be extended from July 2020 when people will receive an additional two weeks of Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance and income-related Employment and Support Allowance if they receive one of these benefits when moving to Universal Credit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203269%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297887","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297887"}},{"id":"297886","reference":"AQW 3268/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-06","answerBy":"2020-03-24","answered":"2020-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many archaeological items are held in storage; and will she undertake a programme to share our history by undertaking a proactive programme of displaying these artefacts in hospitals, schools and libraries.","answerText":"My Department’s Historic Environment Division (HED) holds the excavation material from 450 excavations carried out by its staff and their predecessors since 1950. Given the fragmentary nature of most of the material recovered in excavations (which can include animal bones, production waste, pottery sherds and environmental samples) it is impossible to state the total number of items but there are certainly tens of thousands of individual items in this material. HED also curates a limited amount of material from non-Departmental excavations, including some works associated with infrastructure schemes.\n\nIn regard to display, many of the most significant objects in HED’s possession are already on loan to a variety of appropriate and publically accessible institutions, including National Museums NI (NMNI), local authority museums and heritage centres; and some relevant artefacts are also on display on some of the monuments in the care of the Department, such as Greypoint Fort and Bellaghy Bawn.\n\nAll loan requests to NMNI are individually assessed to ascertain the security and environmental conditions required for the objects requested. NMNI refer to industry standards and important considerations such as object security, condition, rarity, value and accessibility. NMNI works closely with requesting venues to ensure the standards necessary for the national collections. Libraries and in some instances schools can provide suitable exhibition spaces. However, the level of security required, especially in regard to damage and theft prevention, and environmental stability, is not normally available within public spaces such as libraries, schools or hospitals. In any of these buildings secure, museum-standard cases would be required for display purposes, and these cases are very costly to acquire.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Historic Environment Division (HED) holds the excavation material from 450 excavations carried out by its staff and their predecessors since 1950. Given the fragmentary nature of most of the material recovered in excavations (which can include animal bones, production waste, pottery sherds and environmental samples) it is impossible to state the total number of items but there are certainly tens of thousands of individual items in this material. HED also curates a limited amount of material from non-Departmental excavations, including some works associated with infrastructure schemes.
In regard to display, many of the most significant objects in HED’s possession are already on loan to a variety of appropriate and publically accessible institutions, including National Museums NI (NMNI), local authority museums and heritage centres; and some relevant artefacts are also on display on some of the monuments in the care of the Department, such as Greypoint Fort and Bellaghy Bawn.
All loan requests to NMNI are individually assessed to ascertain the security and environmental conditions required for the objects requested. NMNI refer to industry standards and important considerations such as object security, condition, rarity, value and accessibility. NMNI works closely with requesting venues to ensure the standards necessary for the national collections. Libraries and in some instances schools can provide suitable exhibition spaces. However, the level of security required, especially in regard to damage and theft prevention, and environmental stability, is not normally available within public spaces such as libraries, schools or hospitals. In any of these buildings secure, museum-standard cases would be required for display purposes, and these cases are very costly to acquire.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203268%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297886","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297886"}},{"id":"297885","reference":"AQW 3267/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-06","answerBy":"2020-03-24","answered":"2020-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) what discussions there have been between departmental officials and the advice sector to ensure the Make the Call Service and the Independent Welfare Changes Helpline are working effectively in partnership; and (ii) how she will make sure there isn’t a duplication in service and cost.","answerText":"The Welfare Changes Helpline is funded by the Department and delivered independently by the advice sector, with a very specific focus on offering independent information, advice and support relating to any of the ongoing changes to the social security system. Both are distinct but complementary services, evidenced by the fact that, on occasion, people have been signposted to Make the Call Wraparound by the Welfare Changes Helpline.\n\nI am committed to closer working between departmental services and independent community advice organisations. Last year the Department commissioned an independent review which recommended that closer working between Make the Call and the Advice Sector in order to deliver the best quality advice and value for money.\n\nThis recommendation has been accepted and is being implemented.","answerHtml":"The Welfare Changes Helpline is funded by the Department and delivered independently by the advice sector, with a very specific focus on offering independent information, advice and support relating to any of the ongoing changes to the social security system. Both are distinct but complementary services, evidenced by the fact that, on occasion, people have been signposted to Make the Call Wraparound by the Welfare Changes Helpline.
I am committed to closer working between departmental services and independent community advice organisations. Last year the Department commissioned an independent review which recommended that closer working between Make the Call and the Advice Sector in order to deliver the best quality advice and value for money.
This recommendation has been accepted and is being implemented.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203267%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297885","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297885"}},{"id":"297884","reference":"AQW 3266/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-06","answerBy":"2020-03-24","answered":"2020-03-24","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 to outline (i) the criteria that will be used to review and assess arm’s-length bodies; (ii) whether that criteria will be a standard approach taken by each department; and (iii) whether all subsequent reports will be required to be produced using a standardised format.","answerText":"The “New Decade, New Approach” document contains a number of commitments aimed at rationalising public services and making them more effective, including through a review of arm’s-length bodies. This will require discussion at Executive level and we will update Members in due course.","answerHtml":"The “New Decade, New Approach” document contains a number of commitments aimed at rationalising public services and making them more effective, including through a review of arm’s-length bodies. This will require discussion at Executive level and we will update Members in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203266%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297884","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297884"}},{"id":"297883","reference":"AQW 3265/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-06","answerBy":"2020-03-24","answered":"2020-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he has any plans to increase transparency by putting Land and Property Service maps online with a function for the public to be able to view onscreen for free and to pay to print or download portfolios.","answerText":"Land Registry map and Folio searches are currently provided online through the LandWeb system. Under the LandWeb PFI contract, a fee must be paid to the system supplier for the provision of this information. Making maps and searches free online would require this fee to be cross-subsidised from the fees paid by customers for other Land Registry services.\n\nThe current LandWeb contract is due to expire in July 2021. Land & Property Services has started pre-procurement work to define the specification for a new digital solution to replace the LandWeb system. The new solution will be based on a 'digital first' approach with improved data quality and structure. This will enable a modern, more accessible and efficient service which is designed around the needs of the customers and users of the service. A full review of the process for carrying out searches and the charges that are levied will be undertaken as part of the procurement of the new system.\n\nMy department has started a programme to identify and map land and property assets held by government bodies. As the programme progresses, details of all land owned by departments and public bodies will become available through a free public web portal, thereby increasing the transparency around the ownership of public assets.","answerHtml":"Land Registry map and Folio searches are currently provided online through the LandWeb system. Under the LandWeb PFI contract, a fee must be paid to the system supplier for the provision of this information. Making maps and searches free online would require this fee to be cross-subsidised from the fees paid by customers for other Land Registry services.
The current LandWeb contract is due to expire in July 2021. Land & Property Services has started pre-procurement work to define the specification for a new digital solution to replace the LandWeb system. The new solution will be based on a 'digital first' approach with improved data quality and structure. This will enable a modern, more accessible and efficient service which is designed around the needs of the customers and users of the service. A full review of the process for carrying out searches and the charges that are levied will be undertaken as part of the procurement of the new system.
My department has started a programme to identify and map land and property assets held by government bodies. As the programme progresses, details of all land owned by departments and public bodies will become available through a free public web portal, thereby increasing the transparency around the ownership of public assets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203265%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297883","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297883"}},{"id":"297701","reference":"AQO 340/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-05","answerBy":"2020-03-16","answered":"2020-03-16","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what actions she is taking to ensure that the strains on the waste water system in the Strangford constituency do not impact on the building of new homes and new businesses.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I am aware of the increasing issues at waste water treatment works and in the sewerage system. I am concerned that that is having an impact on the environment and on planning decisions in respect of housing and business developments seeking connection to the sewerage network across the North. I have outlined to Executive colleagues the pressures facing my Department, including those of water and waste water. I have also made representations directly to the Finance Minister and impressed on him the need for investment to ensure that we can provide the critical infrastructure needed to ensure that we build the many more homes that we need and to drive economic growth, so that we can improve the lives of citizens right across Northern Ireland. In the Strangford constituency, the following capital investment schemes are scheduled by Northern Ireland Water to start in its current price-control period: new waste water treatment works in Ballygowan, an investment of approximately £6 million; and new waste water treatment works at Ards North at a value of £18 million that will serve Ballywalter, Ballyhaskin and Carrowdore. Those works are scheduled to achieve their beneficial use early in the next price-control period, known as PC21, which starts in 2021. In PC21, investment of around £143 million has been identified to address waste water system capacity issues affecting development in the Strangford constituency."},{"speaker":"","text":"However, all PC21 projects are subject to prioritisation and the availability of adequate funding. I therefore welcome the commitments made in the New Decade, New Approach agreement to address years of underfunding in waste water and am working with the Finance Minister and my other Executive colleagues to secure the level of finance required."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"The Minister has my 100% backing for getting that additional money, because we all know the impact that the waste water system has on planning. What negotiations will there be with builders and developers to ensure that, if they are putting in pumping stations, they will comply and be able to attach to our waste water treatment works, so that it is not a waste of time. Will bonds be put in place to ensure that those putting in their own pumping stations will be held to account to ensure that they connect appropriately?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"It is an area that I have begun to look at. I am beginning to engage with a range of stakeholders, because the facts are \"No drains, no cranes\". It is about how we can work collaboratively and in partnership to address the issue. At some point in the not too distant future, I hope to write to Executive colleagues to see whether there are other things that we could do around developers' contributions, but I am certainly of the view that we have a huge issue when it comes to matching the need for investment in our waste water infrastructure. There is a lot that my Department could do with developers and housing associations on sustainable drainage systems. It is very much an area that I intend to focus on, going forward."},{"speaker":"Ms Anderson","text":"Last week, our Committee was at NI Water, which outlined its PC21 priorities. I was shocked to discover that Derry, Strabane and Omagh were not included, given the level of inequalities in the north-west. I want to ask about the Seán Dolan's development scheme in Creggan, because I know that there is a massive hole in the budget caused by British austerity cuts. Given that the development is for almost 100 houses, we need a sewage and waste water treatment plant built there. The developers say that they are willing to assist but that NI Water has to adopt that, if that is the case. Will she look at that?"},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr McGlone)","text":"I advise the Minister that it is at her discretion whether she answers that. A supplementary question has to be related to the original question. I leave it to the Minister's discretion."},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. It is an important issue. There are now 116 areas in Northern Ireland where we are constrained in terms of planning applications and being able to build homes and grow our economy. It is an issue not just for the Department for Infrastructure but for all of us, and I recognise that there are particular pinch points. I want to work with all Members and Ministers so that we can deliver homes — that is very important to me — but also create the opportunities to grow our economy in places such as Derry and Strabane and across Northern Ireland."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr McGlone)","text":"Before I move to the next question, I advise Members who are seated not to interrupt while another Member has the Floor. That is my job. OK? Thank you."},{"speaker":"Mr Humphrey","text":"The Minister will be aware of the pressures on the waste water system at Duncrue Street. As a result of her conversations with the Finance Minister and other Ministers, is she any closer to being able to inform the House about the upgrading of that centre?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I can assure the Member that discussions have taken place and are taking place. As he will know, there has been no allocation of the budget, so I cannot give him a definitive response to that question. I can, however, reassure him that, for me, investment in our waste water infrastructure is critical. If we are serious about delivering on the outcomes in our Programme for Government, it is essential. I will not be found wanting in continuing to make representations or in working with all Executive colleagues to see that ambition realised."},{"speaker":"Mrs Barton","text":"Does the Minister accept that it is her responsibility and that of the Northern Ireland Executive to ensure that there is sufficient capital investment to enable Northern Ireland Water to treat waste water and protect the environment and that it is not enough for some Ministers to say what they would not do, without offering a solution to the problem?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I agree very much with the Member that it is essential that we ensure that our citizens have access to clean, safe drinking water and safe water treatment works. That is also essential if we are serious about growing our economy, tackling regional imbalance, tackling the climate emergency and improving people's lives. I welcome the approach being taken in the Programme for Government. This issue demonstrates that responsibility does not reside solely in one Department: we all have a responsibility. I have made the case on the issue to Executive colleagues, and they have been very responsive. Mindful that we are in a difficult period that will bring with it its own financial difficulties, I hope that, when we see budget allocations, we will work together to begin to address this. There have been years upon years of underinvestment in our waste water infrastructure, and we are coming to a critical point."},{"speaker":"Mr McNulty","text":"I thank the Minister for the swift measures that she has implemented to help tackle the unprecedented challenge that we all face: coronavirus/COVID-19. What impact has this place being closed for three years had on DFI's ability to provide sufficient capacity in the waste water infrastructure to enable the building of new homes and businesses?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"My Department has been severely impacted on in respect of its responsibilities. All Departments have been severely impacted on because, for three years, we had no one in charge. We had no one in position to make decisions so that we could do things in an improved way or begin to do things in a new way. People will be frustrated about what has happened in the past three years. This is the issue for us now: how ambitious are we for this place of ours? How committed are we to working together to ensure that we improve the lives of everybody who lives here, particularly the most vulnerable? We can look back, and we can be angry and frustrated. I choose to look forward. I choose to work with Executive colleagues in good faith. The people of Northern Ireland have been let down for three years. We now need to lift them up and deliver so much more for them."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr McGlone)","text":"As question 4 has been withdrawn, I call Jonathan Buckley."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20340%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297701","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-03-16&docID=298480#AQO%20340/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297701"}},{"id":"297275","reference":"AQW 3056/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-03","answerBy":"2020-03-19","answered":"2020-03-20","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 detail (i) how he will enforce Tree Preservation Orders by preventing any removal of older trees by developers; (ii) what actions he will take to ensure appropriate action is taken against developers who cut down trees against Tree Preservation Orders.","answerText":"Tree Preservation Orders are made on a statutory basis to provide protection for selected trees under the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. Local Councils are the authority that make and enforce Tree Preservation Orders under this legislation, to protect selected trees, groups of trees or woodlands.","answerHtml":"Tree Preservation Orders are made on a statutory basis to provide protection for selected trees under the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. Local Councils are the authority that make and enforce Tree Preservation Orders under this legislation, to protect selected trees, groups of trees or woodlands.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203056%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297275","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297275"}},{"id":"297274","reference":"AQW 3055/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-03","answerBy":"2020-03-19","answered":"2020-03-23","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 what he is doing to protect Tullynagardy Wood, Newtownards.","answerText":"I am advised that Tullynagardy Wood, Newtownards, is subject to a Tree Preservation Order made under the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. Local Councils are the authority that make and enforce Tree Preservation Orders under this legislation, to protect selected trees, groups of trees or woodlands.","answerHtml":"I am advised that Tullynagardy Wood, Newtownards, is subject to a Tree Preservation Order made under the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. Local Councils are the authority that make and enforce Tree Preservation Orders under this legislation, to protect selected trees, groups of trees or woodlands.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203055%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297274","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297274"}},{"id":"296553","reference":"AQW 2811/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-27","answerBy":"2020-03-06","answered":"2020-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW-2020/17-22, to detail what the information garnered from second religious question is used for by each Department.","answerText":"All Departments use the ‘religion or religion brought up in’ statistic from the census to inform a wide variety of personnel issues (e.g. recruitment, equality of workforce composition etc…). The requirement for such statistics stems from the Fair Employment and Treatment (NI) Order 1998, which places a duty on all public and private sector employers to carry out regular reviews of their employment composition. Workforce equality monitoring is undertaken for all Departments by the Civil Service human resource function within the Department of Finance.\n\nAll Departments also carry out a wide range of equality screening and impact assessments when developing policies. These are required under section 75 of the NI Act 1998. Equality analysis informs the policy development process and a variety of census religion and ‘religion or religion brought up in’ statistics are used by Departments to support this.","answerHtml":"All Departments use the ‘religion or religion brought up in’ statistic from the census to inform a wide variety of personnel issues (e.g. recruitment, equality of workforce composition etc…). The requirement for such statistics stems from the Fair Employment and Treatment (NI) Order 1998, which places a duty on all public and private sector employers to carry out regular reviews of their employment composition. Workforce equality monitoring is undertaken for all Departments by the Civil Service human resource function within the Department of Finance.
All Departments also carry out a wide range of equality screening and impact assessments when developing policies. These are required under section 75 of the NI Act 1998. Equality analysis informs the policy development process and a variety of census religion and ‘religion or religion brought up in’ statistics are used by Departments to support this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202811%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296553","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296553"}},{"id":"296552","reference":"AQW 2810/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-27","answerBy":"2020-03-13","answered":"2020-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) when she will publish the report on the 20mph project outside rural schools; and (ii) whether the Schools (Part-Time 20mph Speed Limit) Order (Northern Ireland) 2018 will be extended to all schools.","answerText":"As Minister responsible for promoting and improving road safety, I want to work actively with partners to reduce death and serious injuries on our roads. I believe that reducing the maximum speed at which traffic can travel on some of our roads, particularly those near schools, can help.\n\nMy Department is committed to introducing measures that reduce the speed of traffic on our roads. We are currently trialling an arrangement of signs that is intended to allow the introduction of more part-time 20mph speed limits at schools. I am expecting receipt of the findings of the trial in the next month or so, and plan to make them publicly available after I have given them due consideration.\n\nFurther changes to legislation will be considered in due course.","answerHtml":"As Minister responsible for promoting and improving road safety, I want to work actively with partners to reduce death and serious injuries on our roads. I believe that reducing the maximum speed at which traffic can travel on some of our roads, particularly those near schools, can help.
My Department is committed to introducing measures that reduce the speed of traffic on our roads. We are currently trialling an arrangement of signs that is intended to allow the introduction of more part-time 20mph speed limits at schools. I am expecting receipt of the findings of the trial in the next month or so, and plan to make them publicly available after I have given them due consideration.
Further changes to legislation will be considered in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202810%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296552","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296552"}},{"id":"296551","reference":"AQW 2809/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-27","answerBy":"2020-03-13","answered":"2020-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail what plans she has to review the SmartPass system to enable people (i) with visual impairments; (ii) who are registered blind; and (iii) who are unable to drive to be able to access free travel.","answerText":"People who are registered blind currently enjoy access to free travel on public transport through the Concessionary Fares Scheme.\n\nI recognise the multiple benefits delivered by the Concessionary Fares Scheme and I am determined to preserve the travel discounts offered on public transport to the most vulnerable groups in society despite the severe constraints in my Department’s budget.\n\nI have met with the Smart Pass Equality Campaign to better understand the impact of half fare travel concessions, however the Concessionary Fares Scheme, as with many areas across my Department, is already under significant pressure, reflecting the severe and challenging budget constraints under which my Department has operated over recent years. Therefore, in advance of taking decisions, I will be assessing the full range of pressures, reflecting on my priorities, the commitments in “New Decade: New Approach” and the budget made available for the period ahead.\n\nI have raised the need for additional investment in infrastructure with the Finance Minister and Executive colleagues, and as this is an Executive scheme I will be having discussions with Executive colleagues to address budgetary pressures in my budget.","answerHtml":"People who are registered blind currently enjoy access to free travel on public transport through the Concessionary Fares Scheme.
I recognise the multiple benefits delivered by the Concessionary Fares Scheme and I am determined to preserve the travel discounts offered on public transport to the most vulnerable groups in society despite the severe constraints in my Department’s budget.
I have met with the Smart Pass Equality Campaign to better understand the impact of half fare travel concessions, however the Concessionary Fares Scheme, as with many areas across my Department, is already under significant pressure, reflecting the severe and challenging budget constraints under which my Department has operated over recent years. Therefore, in advance of taking decisions, I will be assessing the full range of pressures, reflecting on my priorities, the commitments in “New Decade: New Approach” and the budget made available for the period ahead.
I have raised the need for additional investment in infrastructure with the Finance Minister and Executive colleagues, and as this is an Executive scheme I will be having discussions with Executive colleagues to address budgetary pressures in my budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202809%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296551","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296551"}},{"id":"296550","reference":"AQW 2808/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-27","answerBy":"2020-03-13","answered":"2020-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether (i) she intends to review the qualifying age for a Senior SmartPass; and (ii) she has any plans to restrict the times of the day that a SmartPass can used.","answerText":"I recognise the multiple benefits delivered by the Concessionary Fares Scheme and I am determined to preserve the travel discounts offered on public transport to the most vulnerable groups in society despite the severe constraints in my Department’s budget.\n\nI have met with the Smart Pass Equality Campaign to better understand how travel concessions can impact on vulnerable groups, however the Concessionary Fares Scheme, as with many areas across my Department, is already under significant pressure, reflecting the severe and challenging budget constraints under which my Department has operated over recent years. Therefore, in advance of taking decisions, I will be assessing the full range of pressures, reflecting on my priorities, the commitments in “New Decade: New Approach” and the budget made available for the period ahead.\n\nI am continuing to engage with my Executive colleagues to ensure sustained levels of recurrent funding going forward to maintain high quality public transport including support for concessionary travel. This is essential to maintain the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the region.","answerHtml":"I recognise the multiple benefits delivered by the Concessionary Fares Scheme and I am determined to preserve the travel discounts offered on public transport to the most vulnerable groups in society despite the severe constraints in my Department’s budget.
I have met with the Smart Pass Equality Campaign to better understand how travel concessions can impact on vulnerable groups, however the Concessionary Fares Scheme, as with many areas across my Department, is already under significant pressure, reflecting the severe and challenging budget constraints under which my Department has operated over recent years. Therefore, in advance of taking decisions, I will be assessing the full range of pressures, reflecting on my priorities, the commitments in “New Decade: New Approach” and the budget made available for the period ahead.
I am continuing to engage with my Executive colleagues to ensure sustained levels of recurrent funding going forward to maintain high quality public transport including support for concessionary travel. This is essential to maintain the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the region.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202808%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296550","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296550"}},{"id":"296549","reference":"AQW 2807/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-27","answerBy":"2020-03-13","answered":"2020-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the accessibility audit used by the Appeals Service to measure the appropriateness of venues it uses to hear benefit appeals; and whether the accessibility audit will be revised to add consideration for the impact such venues have on appellants with mental ill health, learning disabilities and limited mobility.","answerText":"Appeals are heard in public and privately owned venues based on the facilities available in each area.\n\nBefore any venue is confirmed as suitable for an appeal tribunal hearing the location and facilities are assessed based on a number of criteria, including accessibility/DDA compliance, parking, privacy, lighting, ventilation, heating and other criteria which consider the needs of the parties involved in the hearings.\n\nA review of the criteria upon which venues are assessed has commenced and this will include any additional considerations which should be taken into account as part of the process.","answerHtml":"Appeals are heard in public and privately owned venues based on the facilities available in each area.
Before any venue is confirmed as suitable for an appeal tribunal hearing the location and facilities are assessed based on a number of criteria, including accessibility/DDA compliance, parking, privacy, lighting, ventilation, heating and other criteria which consider the needs of the parties involved in the hearings.
A review of the criteria upon which venues are assessed has commenced and this will include any additional considerations which should be taken into account as part of the process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202807%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296549","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296549"}},{"id":"296339","reference":"AQW 2725/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-26","answerBy":"2020-03-12","answered":"2020-06-26","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 on Universal Credit have been notified that they have received an overpayment as a result of system errors in the last 12 months; (ii) what is the average amount of overpayments made as a result of system error; (iii) what action she is taking to ensure these errors stop; and (iv) whether she will bring in a fair method of repayment or options to cancel debt to ensure people are not faced with further hardship as a result of mistakes made in the Universal Credit processes.","answerText":"The information requested under (i) and (ii) is not currently available.\n\nAs with other social security benefits, a single system, developed and managed by the Department for Work and Pensions, is used to collect and store Universal Credit data. We are working closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to improve the range of data available to us.\n\nIt is worth reflecting that Universal Credit brought together six former benefits into one new process. It involved a substantial amount of training for our people delivering the service from our 35 Jobs and Benefits offices alongside our Service Centres in Foyle, Newry and Belfast. .\n\nWhilst the new UC system is more automated than any of the benefit systems it replaced, there is still a degree of manual intervention required. It is also worth noting that this is truly an agile system, it is still being developed and system changes are introduced on a fortnightly basis. We invest significantly to keep our people aware of these changes and we have a Service Improvement Lead in every office to support that local learning and development.\n\nMy Department is obliged to consider the recoverability of all Universal Credit overpayments, irrespective of how the overpayment arose. This is covered under Section 69ZB of the Social Security Administration (Northern Ireland) Act 1992. However, we can and do apply discretion in respect of the issue of recoverability.\n\nWe advise all people with an overpayment to contact our Debt Management Centre in the first instance. This is their opportunity to tell us how recovery of the overpayment is impacting them, either financially or through ill-health. All cases are dealt with on their individual merits.\n\nI am keen to make sure we deliver a service that is empathetic and protects the most vulnerable in our society. I can assure you that we will continue to review our approach here to make sure it meets that test.","answerHtml":"The information requested under (i) and (ii) is not currently available.
As with other social security benefits, a single system, developed and managed by the Department for Work and Pensions, is used to collect and store Universal Credit data. We are working closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to improve the range of data available to us.
It is worth reflecting that Universal Credit brought together six former benefits into one new process. It involved a substantial amount of training for our people delivering the service from our 35 Jobs and Benefits offices alongside our Service Centres in Foyle, Newry and Belfast. .
Whilst the new UC system is more automated than any of the benefit systems it replaced, there is still a degree of manual intervention required. It is also worth noting that this is truly an agile system, it is still being developed and system changes are introduced on a fortnightly basis. We invest significantly to keep our people aware of these changes and we have a Service Improvement Lead in every office to support that local learning and development.
My Department is obliged to consider the recoverability of all Universal Credit overpayments, irrespective of how the overpayment arose. This is covered under Section 69ZB of the Social Security Administration (Northern Ireland) Act 1992. However, we can and do apply discretion in respect of the issue of recoverability.
We advise all people with an overpayment to contact our Debt Management Centre in the first instance. This is their opportunity to tell us how recovery of the overpayment is impacting them, either financially or through ill-health. All cases are dealt with on their individual merits.
I am keen to make sure we deliver a service that is empathetic and protects the most vulnerable in our society. I can assure you that we will continue to review our approach here to make sure it meets that test.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202725%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296339","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296339"}},{"id":"296338","reference":"AQW 2724/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-26","answerBy":"2020-03-12","answered":"2020-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how many Housing Executive homes were found to have the presence of mould and fungus in each of the last three financial years; (ii) whether any of this mould was tested; (iii) whether any of the moulds tested were found to be dangerous to residents; and (iv) what is being done to resolve this issue.","answerText":"The Housing Executive does not generally undertake testing when mould is found, but offers advice to tenants to remove the mould and prevent it from returning.\n\nHowever, the Housing Executive takes complaints of mould seriously and, when actions taken by its response maintenance staff have not resolved the situation, it appoints expert consultants to carry out investigations to survey properties, identify the cause and provide recommendations. Once completed, a planned scheme can proceed to remedy this situation. These works could be a combination of improved ventilation, insulation and heating, along with providing advice to the tenant to avoid reoccurrence. Whilst the Housing Executive cannot provide statistics relating to exactly how many properties have had these investigations carried out, it is currently progressing three schemes as planned works to deal with damp and mould.\n\nThe Housing Executive has also recently awarded contracts to insulate the No Fines stock to help avoid and remedy damp and mould issues which can be prevalent in this form of construction. The term “no fines” refers to a type of concrete found in older dwellings of non-standard construction that does not contain fine aggregates.\n\nThe Response Maintenance teams also educate tenants on lifestyle choices which can contribute to the causes of condensation, which can frequently cause mould.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive does not generally undertake testing when mould is found, but offers advice to tenants to remove the mould and prevent it from returning.
However, the Housing Executive takes complaints of mould seriously and, when actions taken by its response maintenance staff have not resolved the situation, it appoints expert consultants to carry out investigations to survey properties, identify the cause and provide recommendations. Once completed, a planned scheme can proceed to remedy this situation. These works could be a combination of improved ventilation, insulation and heating, along with providing advice to the tenant to avoid reoccurrence. Whilst the Housing Executive cannot provide statistics relating to exactly how many properties have had these investigations carried out, it is currently progressing three schemes as planned works to deal with damp and mould.
The Housing Executive has also recently awarded contracts to insulate the No Fines stock to help avoid and remedy damp and mould issues which can be prevalent in this form of construction. The term “no fines” refers to a type of concrete found in older dwellings of non-standard construction that does not contain fine aggregates.
The Response Maintenance teams also educate tenants on lifestyle choices which can contribute to the causes of condensation, which can frequently cause mould.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202724%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296338","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296338"}},{"id":"296337","reference":"AQW 2723/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-26","answerBy":"2020-03-12","answered":"2020-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her Department's definition of objective need; (ii) what criteria she will use when allocating funding to prioritise issues identified as delivering an objective need; and (iii) whether she will publish this criteria.","answerText":"I am committed to ensuring that my Department’s resources are targeted where need is greatest, based on sound evidence and objective need. An agreed definition of objective need may be required as it is not currently defined in legislation. However, it will be challenging to agree a definition that fits all circumstances and, it is possible, the definition will change depending on the need we are trying to address.","answerHtml":"I am committed to ensuring that my Department’s resources are targeted where need is greatest, based on sound evidence and objective need. An agreed definition of objective need may be required as it is not currently defined in legislation. However, it will be challenging to agree a definition that fits all circumstances and, it is possible, the definition will change depending on the need we are trying to address.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202723%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296337","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296337"}},{"id":"296336","reference":"AQW 2722/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-26","answerBy":"2020-03-12","answered":"2020-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what is the average time taken for the Charity Commission to register charities, from first application to registration, over the last five years.","answerText":"The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland does not hold information in a way which would readily allow a calculation of the average time taken from submission of an Expression of Intent to registration. This is due to a range of factors including the complexity of individual cases and the volume of cases in progress at any point in time. A further complicating factor is the McBride Judgment of 2019, and subsequent Court of Appeal ruling, which have resulted in the Charity Commission operating through a Committee, making emergency decisions. My officials are currently working with the Charity Commission to explore the implications of these Judgments and I have asked them to consider options for any necessary changes to future operations, including the registration process.","answerHtml":"The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland does not hold information in a way which would readily allow a calculation of the average time taken from submission of an Expression of Intent to registration. This is due to a range of factors including the complexity of individual cases and the volume of cases in progress at any point in time. A further complicating factor is the McBride Judgment of 2019, and subsequent Court of Appeal ruling, which have resulted in the Charity Commission operating through a Committee, making emergency decisions. My officials are currently working with the Charity Commission to explore the implications of these Judgments and I have asked them to consider options for any necessary changes to future operations, including the registration process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202722%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296336","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296336"}},{"id":"296335","reference":"AQW 2721/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-26","answerBy":"2020-03-12","answered":"2020-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how she will ensure planning regulations will be updated to achieve zero emissions by 2030 for (i) businesses; (ii) homes; and (iii) government venues.","answerText":"There are no planning regulations to update in relation to the energy and environmental performance of new buildings, including businesses, homes and government venues. Such matters are governed by building regulations for which the Department of Finance (DoF) has primary responsibility.\n\nDoF has advised that target carbon dioxide rates for new buildings are dealt with in Building Regulations and the need is recognised for these rates to continue to be reduced as part of the work to achieve the net zero carbon target.\n\nDoF officials are fully aware of relevant consultations on proposals for amendments to Building Regulations in England, of similar proposals for Wales, and of recent uplifts in the Republic of Ireland and are progressing proposals here with these in mind.\n\nWhilst there are no planning regulations to update, I am nevertheless strongly committed, within the areas of my responsibility, to working to ensure that the planning system and my Department plays its part in achieving the net zero carbon target. Regarding my Department’s responsibilities under the two tier planning system, regional guidance in the Regional Development Strategy 2035 (RDS) and regional planning policy contained in the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS), already emphasises how planning authorities should mitigate and adapt to climate change. This includes, encouraging increased use of micro-generation in new buildings and requiring the siting, design and layout of all new development to limit likely greenhouse gas emissions and minimise resource and energy requirements.","answerHtml":"There are no planning regulations to update in relation to the energy and environmental performance of new buildings, including businesses, homes and government venues. Such matters are governed by building regulations for which the Department of Finance (DoF) has primary responsibility.
DoF has advised that target carbon dioxide rates for new buildings are dealt with in Building Regulations and the need is recognised for these rates to continue to be reduced as part of the work to achieve the net zero carbon target.
DoF officials are fully aware of relevant consultations on proposals for amendments to Building Regulations in England, of similar proposals for Wales, and of recent uplifts in the Republic of Ireland and are progressing proposals here with these in mind.
Whilst there are no planning regulations to update, I am nevertheless strongly committed, within the areas of my responsibility, to working to ensure that the planning system and my Department plays its part in achieving the net zero carbon target. Regarding my Department’s responsibilities under the two tier planning system, regional guidance in the Regional Development Strategy 2035 (RDS) and regional planning policy contained in the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS), already emphasises how planning authorities should mitigate and adapt to climate change. This includes, encouraging increased use of micro-generation in new buildings and requiring the siting, design and layout of all new development to limit likely greenhouse gas emissions and minimise resource and energy requirements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202721%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296335","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296335"}},{"id":"299409","reference":"AQO 279/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-20","answerBy":"2020-03-03","answered":"2020-03-19","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 the rational for extending the recent consultation on the application for a Marine Licence for Islandmagee Gas Storage Project.","answerText":"The Department received a letter alleging shortcomings with the public notice advertising the consultation on the updated application, Environmental Statement and Marine Environmental Conditions Update Report for the proposed Islandmagee Gas Storage project.\n\nFollowing a review of the notice, the Department decided to re-advertise and extend the consultation using an amended notice.\n\nDAERA has contacted all respondents informing them of the revised consultation closing date of 27 March 2020. Respondents have also been advised that while they do not have to make a further response, they can use this period to add any additional comments in support of their views.","answerHtml":"The Department received a letter alleging shortcomings with the public notice advertising the consultation on the updated application, Environmental Statement and Marine Environmental Conditions Update Report for the proposed Islandmagee Gas Storage project.
Following a review of the notice, the Department decided to re-advertise and extend the consultation using an amended notice.
DAERA has contacted all respondents informing them of the revised consultation closing date of 27 March 2020. Respondents have also been advised that while they do not have to make a further response, they can use this period to add any additional comments in support of their views.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20279%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299409","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299409"}},{"id":"294656","reference":"AQW 2020/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-13","answerBy":"2020-02-28","answered":"2020-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he will remove, from the 2021 census, the question asking those who have responded that they do not belong to any religion, what religious community background they may be perceived as from.","answerText":"The last two Censuses (2001 & 2011) included two religion questions. The first question asked everyone the “religion they belonged to” and the second question asked those who had no current religion the “religion they were brought up in”.\n\nThe statistics produced from these questions are used by public and private sector bodies to meet their statutory obligations under section 75 of the NI Act (1998) and the Fair Employment and Treatment (NI) Order 1998.\n\nA public consultation on the 2021 Census revealed continuing strong support for the two religion questions. This included support from the Equality Commission. The questions were tested in the recent census rehearsal and continue to perform well. Therefore, I am in favour of retaining the two religion questions from the 2001 and 2011 Censuses in the 2021 Census. The legislation required to take forward the 2021 Census will now be considered by the Executive Committee.","answerHtml":"The last two Censuses (2001 & 2011) included two religion questions. The first question asked everyone the “religion they belonged to” and the second question asked those who had no current religion the “religion they were brought up in”.
The statistics produced from these questions are used by public and private sector bodies to meet their statutory obligations under section 75 of the NI Act (1998) and the Fair Employment and Treatment (NI) Order 1998.
A public consultation on the 2021 Census revealed continuing strong support for the two religion questions. This included support from the Equality Commission. The questions were tested in the recent census rehearsal and continue to perform well. Therefore, I am in favour of retaining the two religion questions from the 2001 and 2011 Censuses in the 2021 Census. The legislation required to take forward the 2021 Census will now be considered by the Executive Committee.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202020%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294656"}},{"id":"294655","reference":"AQW 2019/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-13","answerBy":"2020-02-28","answered":"2020-05-27","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 to outline (i) what action they have taken to define the role specification for the Compact Civic Advisory Panel; and (ii) when the public appointments process to recruit panel members will open.","answerText":"Work is undergoing to develop a profile of skills and experience that will be sought from applicants for appointment to the Compact Civic Advisory Panel (CCAP).\n\nThe public appointments process will be commenced at an appropriate point following the completion of this work.","answerHtml":"Work is undergoing to develop a profile of skills and experience that will be sought from applicants for appointment to the Compact Civic Advisory Panel (CCAP).
The public appointments process will be commenced at an appropriate point following the completion of this work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202019%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294655"}},{"id":"294654","reference":"AQW 2018/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-13","answerBy":"2020-02-28","answered":"2021-12-08","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 to outline (i) the recruitment process for appointing the three Commissioners for Ministerial Standards; (ii) when the Commissioner role specification will be published; and (iii) how they will ensure the process is transparent.","answerText":"While preparations were under way for a public appointments competition for members of the proposed Panel for Ministerial Standards, you will be aware that the Assembly passed the Functioning of Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, which is now law and confers statutory authority on the Assembly Commissioner for Standards to investigate complaints about Ministerial conduct. Any future developments in the matter of complaints against Ministerial conduct will be considered in the context of this development","answerHtml":"While preparations were under way for a public appointments competition for members of the proposed Panel for Ministerial Standards, you will be aware that the Assembly passed the Functioning of Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, which is now law and confers statutory authority on the Assembly Commissioner for Standards to investigate complaints about Ministerial conduct. Any future developments in the matter of complaints against Ministerial conduct will be considered in the context of this development
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202018%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294654"}},{"id":"294653","reference":"AQW 2017/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-13","answerBy":"2020-02-28","answered":"2020-08-19","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 publish all (i) updated; and (ii) new codes of conduct referenced in New Decade, New Approach.","answerText":"Work is continuing to finalise these documents. The Executive Office will publish a new version of the Ministerial Code, incorporating a revised Ministerial Code of Conduct, after the necessary legislative, Executive and Assembly procedures to effect amendment have been completed to reflect the New Decade, New Approach deal, and more recently, the provisions of the Executive Committee (Functions) Bill. The department will also publish final versions of the Guidance for Ministers in the Exercise of their Official Functions and the Guide to the Executive process following review and agreement by the Executive to proposed revisions.\n\nThe Department of Finance has already published the Code governing the appointment of Special Advisers and the Code of Conduct for Special Advisers. It will publish the Code of Ethics for the Civil Service following consultation and Executive agreement.\n\nWe regret the delay in responding to your question.","answerHtml":"Work is continuing to finalise these documents. The Executive Office will publish a new version of the Ministerial Code, incorporating a revised Ministerial Code of Conduct, after the necessary legislative, Executive and Assembly procedures to effect amendment have been completed to reflect the New Decade, New Approach deal, and more recently, the provisions of the Executive Committee (Functions) Bill. The department will also publish final versions of the Guidance for Ministers in the Exercise of their Official Functions and the Guide to the Executive process following review and agreement by the Executive to proposed revisions.
The Department of Finance has already published the Code governing the appointment of Special Advisers and the Code of Conduct for Special Advisers. It will publish the Code of Ethics for the Civil Service following consultation and Executive agreement.
We regret the delay in responding to your question.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202017%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294653"}},{"id":"294652","reference":"AQW 2016/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-13","answerBy":"2020-02-28","answered":"2020-06-09","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 to outline (i) what steps they have to take to enable the Citizens’ Assembly to meet; and (ii) how will they ensure there is appropriate civic engagement and public consultation on the topics to be considered.","answerText":"The New Decade, New Approach Deal outlines in paragraphs 3.9 and 3.9 proposed arrangements for future structured civic engagement, including the role of Compact Civic Advisory Panel in recommending appropriate models of engagement on specific issues, including a Citizens’ Assembly. We will be considering the potential and opportunities of a Citizens’ Assembly as part of the work on implementing ‘New Decade New Approach’ (NDNA). A detailed assessment on NDNA commitments is currently underway within our Department.","answerHtml":"The New Decade, New Approach Deal outlines in paragraphs 3.9 and 3.9 proposed arrangements for future structured civic engagement, including the role of Compact Civic Advisory Panel in recommending appropriate models of engagement on specific issues, including a Citizens’ Assembly. We will be considering the potential and opportunities of a Citizens’ Assembly as part of the work on implementing ‘New Decade New Approach’ (NDNA). A detailed assessment on NDNA commitments is currently underway within our Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202016%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294652","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294652"}},{"id":"294218","reference":"AQW 1864/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-11","answerBy":"2020-02-26","answered":"2020-03-04","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 her Department's Brexit preparations in line with the Northern Ireland protocol; and how many people are working on ensuring compliance with the protocol.","answerText":"An Executive sub-committee on EU Exit issues has been established to ensure that Ministers can provide strategic oversight and direction to work across all Departments to understand the implications and practical delivery of the Protocol.\n\nCurrently, four members of staff within the Department have direct responsibilities for the work on the Protocol.","answerHtml":"An Executive sub-committee on EU Exit issues has been established to ensure that Ministers can provide strategic oversight and direction to work across all Departments to understand the implications and practical delivery of the Protocol.
Currently, four members of staff within the Department have direct responsibilities for the work on the Protocol.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201864%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294218","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294218"}},{"id":"293702","reference":"AQO 153/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-06","answerBy":"2020-02-17","answered":"2020-02-17","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what discussions she has had with the Minister of Finance on the Housing Executive's debt.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"I am committed to delivering on the pledge made in 'New Decade, New Approach' that the Executive will examine options to remove the historical debt from the Housing Executive. I have already met Minister Murphy to discuss the matter and to explore what may be done in relation to the Housing Executive's landlord legacy debt. As Members may already be aware, the historical debt results from loans that were generally taken out to finance new-build housing activities by the Housing Executive and its predecessor organisations, including the Housing Trust and former local authorities. The level of historical debt, including capital and interest outstanding, at 31 December 2019 was £332 million. That is due for repayment to the Department of Finance and councils by 2036-37. There is a significance to the Housing Executive debt because of the massive investment challenge it faces if it is to provide a sustainable and long-term future for its portfolio of social homes. Action on the Housing Executive may play a part in addressing that, albeit a minor part alongside many more substantial actions. Revitalisation of the Housing Executive is key, and I will engage on that in the time ahead."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"Minister, I appreciate that this is a big issue for your Department and especially for the Housing Executive. Will you provide any of the actions that you have considered to date on how to future-proof the Housing Executive? Perhaps you could provide them in writing. What plans do you have to make sure that the Housing Executive is stable, out of debt and fit for purpose to deliver the much-needed housing across Northern Ireland?"},{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"I am looking at considering the revitalisation of the Housing Executive. Obviously, we will need to look at a number of levers over the next 10 years. Once I finalise my view of the future direction of this, I will inform the Chamber and the Committee."},{"speaker":"Ms Ní Chuilín","text":"I thank the Minister for her response, particularly to Kellie Armstrong's question. My question is similar. The 'New Decade, New Approach' document has within it the potential for removing historical debt from the Housing Executive. Will the Minister ensure that any proposals to increase rents are matched against affordability? How will the commitments around the revitalisation and the removal of historical debt be delivered within this Assembly?"},{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"Obviously, affordability is key, because we do not want to increase the burden on the renter or, indeed, the public purse. We will look at the revitalisation of the Housing Executive in the whole. We will look at investment opportunities with existing stock and then look at the wider housing stock more extensively. I have raised the issue, along with corporation tax, with the Minister of Finance. While those will provide some solutions, a complete look at the revitalisation of the Housing Executive will be needed over the next 10 years. We will have to look at the debt, the income that is generated and, importantly, how we maintain existing stock whilst looking at an ambitious housing programme in the time ahead. The renter — the person in each of the homes — needs to be protected in all cases."},{"speaker":"Mr Newton","text":"I note that the Minister has used the word \"revitalisation\" several times in her answers to the question. Will the Minister consider revitalisation to include the potential of the Housing Executive to build new homes? Where there is demolition of Northern Ireland Housing Executive homes, will the Minister consider that those sites will stay within and become an asset of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive?"},{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"I will look at all housebuilding options. At the moment, we build 1,750 new builds per annum, the majority of which are in housing associations. When you look at the increased housing need, you see that that is not enough to meet the need, particularly of those in critical need. I will look at this overarchingly in the time ahead. Dealing with the debt issues and the issues around corporation tax is one element of what needs to happen in the Housing Executive. We also need to look at the rents in a more holistic way and at other solutions and means of financing. There is financial transactions capital and the ONS legislation that needs to come forward. I will look at all those options in the time ahead, as I lay out my vision and my future approach to where housing will go. I will do that in the coming weeks and months."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20153%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=293702","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-02-17&docID=294390#AQO%20153/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=293702"}},{"id":"292659","reference":"AQW 1226/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-30","answerBy":"2020-02-14","answered":"2020-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she has plans to introduce an MOT exemption for Vehicles of Historical Interest, as in Great Britain, in order to remove them from the MOT waiting list.","answerText":"I am aware that this exemption was introduced in Great Britain in 2018 which has led to a difference as to how Vehicles of Historic Interest (VHIs) are treated in GB and NI.\n\nI am also aware that following interest from both elected representatives and members of the public that my Department ran a public consultation exercise in 2019 seeking views as to whether this exemption should be considered here.\n\nThis is an issue which I wish to examine carefully, and will consider the consultation responses before I decide how best to proceed.","answerHtml":"I am aware that this exemption was introduced in Great Britain in 2018 which has led to a difference as to how Vehicles of Historic Interest (VHIs) are treated in GB and NI.
I am also aware that following interest from both elected representatives and members of the public that my Department ran a public consultation exercise in 2019 seeking views as to whether this exemption should be considered here.
This is an issue which I wish to examine carefully, and will consider the consultation responses before I decide how best to proceed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201226%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=292659","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=292659"}},{"id":"292761","reference":"AQO 86/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-30","answerBy":"2020-02-10","answered":"2020-02-10","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the actions he is taking to depathologise trans healthcare to reflect recent changes to the World Health Organisation's classification of diseases and in international best practice.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"A review of gender identity services is under way to identify a new model of care for transgender and non-binary people in Northern Ireland. As part of that process, a gender identity service pathway review group has been established. Membership of the group includes officials from my Department, the Health and Social Care Board, the Public Health Agency, the Patient and Client Council, the Royal College of General Practitioners, and service users' representatives. The group is, of course, aware of the declassification of gender identity issues as mental health problems in the eleventh edition of the international statistical classification of diseases and related health problems, and it will be mindful of that when taking its work forward. The group is due to report on its findings and recommendations by June 2020. Trans and non-binary people also experience the same health problems as the rest of the population. Therefore, if their condition is unrelated to gender dysphoria or its treatment, they will be treated in the same way as any other patient with that condition."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"I am aware that there are representatives of trans persons on that review panel. However, the criteria to pick those people were never published. As we come out of New Decade, New Approach, and in light of civic engagement and public consultation, other organisations such as TransgenderNI may be involved in that review. Will the Minister meet TransgenderNI?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for her supplementary. I will answer the last part first: I will invite a number of organisations to an LGBTQ+ round table at the end of March. To my knowledge, TransgenderNI is one of those organisations. In regard to her earlier point, organisations have been asked to identify to the Department what they want to discuss at that round table. If they make that a priority issue that they want to raise, we will consider it at that point."},{"speaker":"Ms Ní Chuilín","text":"I would be quite shocked if, at the meeting with TransgenderNI and others, the issue of conversion therapy, and the need to bring legislation forward to ban it, was not raised. Does the Minister have any plans to bring forward legislation to ban the inhumane practice of conversion therapy?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I will be honest: this is the first time the issue has been raised with me in my time as Minister. If the issue is brought up at the round table, we will definitely consider it. As the Member has raised it today, I give her the commitment that we will put it in our work scope."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Beggs)","text":"Question 5 has been withdrawn."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%2086%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=292761","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-02-10&docID=293242#AQO%2086/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=292761"}},{"id":"291790","reference":"AQW 834/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-23","answerBy":"2020-01-31","answered":"2020-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the legislative process and indicative timeframe for the continuation of the welfare mitigation package; and whether there will be a gap between the current welfare mitigation package ending and the new legislation being passed.","answerText":"I will be seeking Executive agreement to bring forward a Bill to reform the Welfare Reform Order beyond 31 March 2020. Officials are currently working as a priority to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place by 31st March 2020 with regards to passing the necessary subordinate legislation to extend the welfare mitigation package. An indicative timeframe for the passing of the required legislation is still being finalised.\n\nShould there be any issue with passing legislation through the Assembly by 31st March 2020 officials are also working to ensure that there will be no gap in mitigation payments.","answerHtml":"I will be seeking Executive agreement to bring forward a Bill to reform the Welfare Reform Order beyond 31 March 2020. Officials are currently working as a priority to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place by 31st March 2020 with regards to passing the necessary subordinate legislation to extend the welfare mitigation package. An indicative timeframe for the passing of the required legislation is still being finalised.
Should there be any issue with passing legislation through the Assembly by 31st March 2020 officials are also working to ensure that there will be no gap in mitigation payments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20834%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291790","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291790"}},{"id":"291414","reference":"AQW 576/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-20","answerBy":"2020-02-04","answered":"2020-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what action he is taking to alleviate the shortage of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) patches; and (ii) what alternatives are being put in place to ensure women are not disadvantaged with the shortage of HRT medications.","answerText":"The Department is aware of ongoing issues affecting the supply of some hormone replacement therapy (HRT) products throughout the UK due to manufacturing issues. There are well established arrangements in place for dealing with shortages when they do occur which can, on occasions, involve a GP prescribing an alternative to a patient’s usual medicine. Although some HRT products are temporarily unavailable, supplies of a variety of other HRT preparations continue to remain available. Patients experiencing difficulties in getting HRT products on prescription are advised to consult with their GP who will be able to advise them about the most appropriate alternative HRT options.","answerHtml":"The Department is aware of ongoing issues affecting the supply of some hormone replacement therapy (HRT) products throughout the UK due to manufacturing issues. There are well established arrangements in place for dealing with shortages when they do occur which can, on occasions, involve a GP prescribing an alternative to a patient’s usual medicine. Although some HRT products are temporarily unavailable, supplies of a variety of other HRT preparations continue to remain available. Patients experiencing difficulties in getting HRT products on prescription are advised to consult with their GP who will be able to advise them about the most appropriate alternative HRT options.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20576%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291414","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291414"}},{"id":"291262","reference":"AQW 466/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-17","answerBy":"2020-02-03","answered":"2020-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) how she will ensure affordable, accessible transport will be delivered by the Community Transport network; and (ii) when will issues in relation to the section 10B permit be resolved.","answerText":"(i)I recognise the valuable role that the Community Transport network plays in connecting people, some of whom are the most vulnerable in our society, to opportunities including accessing essential local services and more actively participating in society. Community transport provides opportunities to enhance lives by increasing access to local services and allows communities to more actively participate in society. The severe constraints in my Department’s budgets over recent years has resulted in reduced funding across a range of areas including community transport creating significant pressures. I am currently assessing those pressures across my Department reflecting on my priorities, the commitments in \"New Decade: New Approach\" and the budget made available for the period ahead. I will be bringing a clear focus on connecting people through sustainable and accessible public transport services. I look forward to assessing all options to develop affordable, accessible community transport.\n\n(ii) I understand there have been a number of concerns regarding 10B Permits, in particular the Department’s guidance for operators. My Department is continuing to liaise with the Department for Transport (DfT) to determine the implications for Northern Ireland of the recent High Court Judgement made in England on non-commercial operations and any revised guidance which DfT may issue for operators on this matter.","answerHtml":"(i)I recognise the valuable role that the Community Transport network plays in connecting people, some of whom are the most vulnerable in our society, to opportunities including accessing essential local services and more actively participating in society. Community transport provides opportunities to enhance lives by increasing access to local services and allows communities to more actively participate in society. The severe constraints in my Department’s budgets over recent years has resulted in reduced funding across a range of areas including community transport creating significant pressures. I am currently assessing those pressures across my Department reflecting on my priorities, the commitments in "New Decade: New Approach" and the budget made available for the period ahead. I will be bringing a clear focus on connecting people through sustainable and accessible public transport services. I look forward to assessing all options to develop affordable, accessible community transport.
(ii) I understand there have been a number of concerns regarding 10B Permits, in particular the Department’s guidance for operators. My Department is continuing to liaise with the Department for Transport (DfT) to determine the implications for Northern Ireland of the recent High Court Judgement made in England on non-commercial operations and any revised guidance which DfT may issue for operators on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20466%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291262","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291262"}},{"id":"291261","reference":"AQW 465/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-17","answerBy":"2020-02-03","answered":"2020-02-17","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 confirm if Project Stratum (i) is proceeding, (ii) has sufficient funding; and to detail (i) the timescale for rollout; and (ii) the date households and businesses in each constituency will be able to access improved broadband speeds.","answerText":"Project Stratum is proceeding and is currently at mid-procurement stage. Project Stratum aims to utilise the £165m funding to improve internet connectivity for premises unable to access speeds of 30 Mbps or greater. I am aware of some commentary on the withdrawal of the Confidence and Supply funding following the New Decade New Approach Agreement. I can confirm that discussions are ongoing on the financial package, including the restoration of the remaining Confidence and Supply funding, and that broadband remains a key priority for the Executive.\n\nMy Department will seek to maximise the industry contribution, over and above the current £165m public investment, to ensure that as many premises as possible benefit from the project. However, it is anticipated that not all premises within the intervention area will benefit and officials continue to engage with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport to explore how such premises will be addressed, as expeditiously as possible, on a national scale and in line with UK Government policy.\n\nContract award is expected in mid-2020. My Department’s early engagement with industry indicates that a 6-9 month period is required for network design and delivery preparation. It is not, therefore, anticipated that deployment of infrastructure will commence until January 2021 at the earliest and will be completed by 31 March 2024.\n\nThe precise number and location of premises that will benefit from Project Stratum, and the likely availability of new services, will not be known until after contract award.","answerHtml":"Project Stratum is proceeding and is currently at mid-procurement stage. Project Stratum aims to utilise the £165m funding to improve internet connectivity for premises unable to access speeds of 30 Mbps or greater. I am aware of some commentary on the withdrawal of the Confidence and Supply funding following the New Decade New Approach Agreement. I can confirm that discussions are ongoing on the financial package, including the restoration of the remaining Confidence and Supply funding, and that broadband remains a key priority for the Executive.
My Department will seek to maximise the industry contribution, over and above the current £165m public investment, to ensure that as many premises as possible benefit from the project. However, it is anticipated that not all premises within the intervention area will benefit and officials continue to engage with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport to explore how such premises will be addressed, as expeditiously as possible, on a national scale and in line with UK Government policy.
Contract award is expected in mid-2020. My Department’s early engagement with industry indicates that a 6-9 month period is required for network design and delivery preparation. It is not, therefore, anticipated that deployment of infrastructure will commence until January 2021 at the earliest and will be completed by 31 March 2024.
The precise number and location of premises that will benefit from Project Stratum, and the likely availability of new services, will not be known until after contract award.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20465%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291261","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291261"}},{"id":"291260","reference":"AQW 464/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-17","answerBy":"2020-02-03","answered":"2020-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline (i) when he will initiate the review of Education, (ii) how he will recruit for the independent panel to complete the review and; (iii) how he will provide appropriate funding to ensure the review is able to independently examine the best way to deliver a fit for purpose education system that is affordable, effective, efficient and sustainable.","answerText":"I will give consideration to the design and delivery of the Independent Review of Education provision as articulated in New Decade, New Approach.\n\nIt would, thereafter, be my intention to bring forward proposals to the Executive which would include detail on the timing of such a review, the methodology for recruiting an appropriate panel and the funding ramifications.","answerHtml":"I will give consideration to the design and delivery of the Independent Review of Education provision as articulated in New Decade, New Approach.
It would, thereafter, be my intention to bring forward proposals to the Executive which would include detail on the timing of such a review, the methodology for recruiting an appropriate panel and the funding ramifications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20464%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291260","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291260"}},{"id":"291259","reference":"AQW 463/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-17","answerBy":"2020-02-03","answered":"2020-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether his Department will (i) update building regulations to ensure that changing places toilets are required as standard in every new public building; and (ii) update the policy so that all public and government buildings will retrofit changing places toilets within the next 5 years.","answerText":"The Department is aware of and sympathetic to the dignity issues and impacts arising from the limited provision of changing places toilets (CPT). It will continue to support and encourage appropriate legislative changes to achieve a more equitable environment for all, with fully accessible facilities appropriately distributed in public places across the region.\n\nSpecifically:\n\nThe Department is engaging with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the other devolved administrations in relation to including requirements for the provision for changing places toilets in our building regulations.\n\nThe Department has responsibility for managing those buildings within the central government office estate. The Department plans to complete a CPT installation later this year on the Stormont Estate that will be fully accessible to the public. We will continue to consider future further instalments of CPTs on our office estate, learning from this important project.","answerHtml":"The Department is aware of and sympathetic to the dignity issues and impacts arising from the limited provision of changing places toilets (CPT). It will continue to support and encourage appropriate legislative changes to achieve a more equitable environment for all, with fully accessible facilities appropriately distributed in public places across the region.
Specifically:
The Department is engaging with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the other devolved administrations in relation to including requirements for the provision for changing places toilets in our building regulations.
The Department has responsibility for managing those buildings within the central government office estate. The Department plans to complete a CPT installation later this year on the Stormont Estate that will be fully accessible to the public. We will continue to consider future further instalments of CPTs on our office estate, learning from this important project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20463%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291259","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291259"}},{"id":"291258","reference":"AQW 462/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-17","answerBy":"2020-02-03","answered":"2020-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when his Department will begin the 3 free cycles of IVF.","answerText":"I am pleased that the New Decade, New Approach Agreement committed to providing 3 funded IVF cycles for eligible women.\n\nThe Regional Fertility Centre does not currently have the capacity to meet the demand for treatment arising from offering 3 cycles of IVF to all eligible women, as there are not enough trained staff to carry out the procedures, nor is there enough space at the premises to facilitate a higher number of patients.\n\nMy officials are currently giving urgent consideration to how this issue can be taken forward and as such I am unable to give a definitive implementation date at this stage.","answerHtml":"I am pleased that the New Decade, New Approach Agreement committed to providing 3 funded IVF cycles for eligible women.
The Regional Fertility Centre does not currently have the capacity to meet the demand for treatment arising from offering 3 cycles of IVF to all eligible women, as there are not enough trained staff to carry out the procedures, nor is there enough space at the premises to facilitate a higher number of patients.
My officials are currently giving urgent consideration to how this issue can be taken forward and as such I am unable to give a definitive implementation date at this stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20462%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291258","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291258"}},{"id":"288415","reference":"AQW 9638/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2017-01-18","answerBy":"2017-01-25","answered":"2017-01-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline his Department's commitment to ensure an effective library service.","answerText":"My Department is fully committed to ensuring an effective library service. As community hubs, libraries are free, inclusive, shared, accessible and trusted spaces, embedded in communities and used by people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds. As 89% of the population lives within two miles of a branch library or mobile library stop, I recognise that there is tremendous potential for libraries to provide local access to, and support for, a range of citizen-focused services. This was reflected in my decision in August 2016 to allocate Libraries NI with an additional £225k which I made available to help Libraries NI maintain library opening hours at current levels in this financial year.\n\nLibraries NI is also fully committed to ensuring an effective library service and its strategy for doing so is set out in its 2016/17 Business Plan. Amongst others, this Plan aims to improve the effectiveness of the library service by widening access to libraries through targeted outreach work, partnership working with local community organisations, charities and Government Departments. Libraries NI is also a statutory partner in the Community Planning process and has been working closely with local councils in the development of their respective Community Plans, recognising the important role libraries play as community hubs.\n\nIn order to make the library service even more effective and to widen access to libraries as far as possible my Department believes that greater joined up working is essential. I am pleased therefore that Libraries NI has already developed Memoranda of Understandings (MOUs) with various parts of Government to help support their activities in the community such as DfC employment services, DE and DAERA. A number of initiatives are being taken forward through these partnerships in libraries. These include Job clubs to support the unemployed; basic IT training for farmers, rural dwellers and those seeking employment; early intervention schemes to improve educational aspirations of pre-schoolers and primary school children and much more.\n\nI fully support this partnership working and my officials, in conjunction with Libraries NI, are exploring other areas of potential collaboration with other Departments, including organisations which now form part of DfC. This is to ensure that every opportunity is used to improve the effectiveness of the library service and to widen access to libraries and provide as wide a range of services to the community as possible.","answerHtml":"My Department is fully committed to ensuring an effective library service. As community hubs, libraries are free, inclusive, shared, accessible and trusted spaces, embedded in communities and used by people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds. As 89% of the population lives within two miles of a branch library or mobile library stop, I recognise that there is tremendous potential for libraries to provide local access to, and support for, a range of citizen-focused services. This was reflected in my decision in August 2016 to allocate Libraries NI with an additional £225k which I made available to help Libraries NI maintain library opening hours at current levels in this financial year.
Libraries NI is also fully committed to ensuring an effective library service and its strategy for doing so is set out in its 2016/17 Business Plan. Amongst others, this Plan aims to improve the effectiveness of the library service by widening access to libraries through targeted outreach work, partnership working with local community organisations, charities and Government Departments. Libraries NI is also a statutory partner in the Community Planning process and has been working closely with local councils in the development of their respective Community Plans, recognising the important role libraries play as community hubs.
In order to make the library service even more effective and to widen access to libraries as far as possible my Department believes that greater joined up working is essential. I am pleased therefore that Libraries NI has already developed Memoranda of Understandings (MOUs) with various parts of Government to help support their activities in the community such as DfC employment services, DE and DAERA. A number of initiatives are being taken forward through these partnerships in libraries. These include Job clubs to support the unemployed; basic IT training for farmers, rural dwellers and those seeking employment; early intervention schemes to improve educational aspirations of pre-schoolers and primary school children and much more.
I fully support this partnership working and my officials, in conjunction with Libraries NI, are exploring other areas of potential collaboration with other Departments, including organisations which now form part of DfC. This is to ensure that every opportunity is used to improve the effectiveness of the library service and to widen access to libraries and provide as wide a range of services to the community as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209638%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=288415","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=288415"}},{"id":"288414","reference":"AQW 9637/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2017-01-18","answerBy":"2017-01-25","answered":"2017-01-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline his discussions with Libraries NI to agree their business case for the next 3 years.","answerText":"My officials met with Libraries NI in December 2015 to discuss its 2016/20 Corporate Plan as well as its 2016/17 Business Plan and to provide assistance and direction. Libraries NI’s Business Plans are agreed on an annual basis and not on a 3 year cycle.\n\nOnce the Corporate and Business Plans were received they were reviewed by my officials. Any issues were raised and addressed by Libraries NI and the final drafts were forwarded to me for my final approval. I approved the Libraries NI 2016/20 Corporate Plan and 2016/17 Business Plan in July 2016.","answerHtml":"My officials met with Libraries NI in December 2015 to discuss its 2016/20 Corporate Plan as well as its 2016/17 Business Plan and to provide assistance and direction. Libraries NI’s Business Plans are agreed on an annual basis and not on a 3 year cycle.
Once the Corporate and Business Plans were received they were reviewed by my officials. Any issues were raised and addressed by Libraries NI and the final drafts were forwarded to me for my final approval. I approved the Libraries NI 2016/20 Corporate Plan and 2016/17 Business Plan in July 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209637%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=288414","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=288414"}},{"id":"288629","reference":"AQO 956/16-21","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2017-01-12","answerBy":"2017-01-23","answered":"2017-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, given that the target for participants in shared education is cited as 762 schools in the Delivering Social Change Signature Project: Shared Education business case, to clarify his statement during a Radio Ulster interview on 3 October 2016 that the target in the business case was 352 schools.","answerText":"The target for the DSC Shared Education Signature Project is to increase the percentage of schools providing shared classes to 33% by end of 2017/18. At the time the target was set there were 1,068 schools (primary, post-primary and special) – hence a target of 352 schools. Statistics for 2016/17 show the number of schools has declined to 1,061 – hence the current target is 350 schools. The reference to 762 schools relates to the number potentially eligible to participate in the programme.","answerHtml":"The target for the DSC Shared Education Signature Project is to increase the percentage of schools providing shared classes to 33% by end of 2017/18. At the time the target was set there were 1,068 schools (primary, post-primary and special) – hence a target of 352 schools. Statistics for 2016/17 show the number of schools has declined to 1,061 – hence the current target is 350 schools. The reference to 762 schools relates to the number potentially eligible to participate in the programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20956%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=288629","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=288629"}},{"id":"287816","reference":"AQW 9329/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2017-01-11","answerBy":"2017-01-26","answered":"2017-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her Department's definition of rural.","answerText":"My Department does not apply a single definition of rural but duly considers the ‘Review of the Statistical Classification and Delineation of Settlements’ published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) in 2015, when appropriately defining urban and rural areas for different projects and programmes.\n\nIn terms of our policy on Rural Crime, my Department’s Community Safety Strategy 2012-2017 contains a commitment to making rural communities safer by reducing opportunities to commit crime. It also highlights my Department’s commitment to supporting the outcomes of the Executive’s Rural White Paper and Action Plan, led by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), to support and sustain rural communities and to deliver initiatives in rural areas across Northern Ireland that will contribute to safer rural communities.\n\nThe Rural Crime Partnership (RCP), which consists of representatives from my Department, the Police Service of Northern Ireland, NFU Mutual, the Ulster Farmers’ Union and DAERA, delivers actions taken forward at a strategic level to support safer rural communities. The primary focus of the RCP has been on developing a collaborative response to crime which is specific to rural areas – agricultural crime.\n\nIn addition to this, my Department meets regularly with the PSNI to further develop opportunities and initiatives, which focus on addressing rural crime.\n\nAt a local level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships continue to deliver a wide range of initiatives to address crimes in their local areas.","answerHtml":"My Department does not apply a single definition of rural but duly considers the ‘Review of the Statistical Classification and Delineation of Settlements’ published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) in 2015, when appropriately defining urban and rural areas for different projects and programmes.
In terms of our policy on Rural Crime, my Department’s Community Safety Strategy 2012-2017 contains a commitment to making rural communities safer by reducing opportunities to commit crime. It also highlights my Department’s commitment to supporting the outcomes of the Executive’s Rural White Paper and Action Plan, led by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), to support and sustain rural communities and to deliver initiatives in rural areas across Northern Ireland that will contribute to safer rural communities.
The Rural Crime Partnership (RCP), which consists of representatives from my Department, the Police Service of Northern Ireland, NFU Mutual, the Ulster Farmers’ Union and DAERA, delivers actions taken forward at a strategic level to support safer rural communities. The primary focus of the RCP has been on developing a collaborative response to crime which is specific to rural areas – agricultural crime.
In addition to this, my Department meets regularly with the PSNI to further develop opportunities and initiatives, which focus on addressing rural crime.
At a local level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships continue to deliver a wide range of initiatives to address crimes in their local areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209329%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=287816","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=287816"}},{"id":"287674","reference":"AQW 9247/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2017-01-10","answerBy":"2017-01-25","answered":"2017-01-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether an allocation of funding is secured in his budget to enable delivery of the Accessible Transportation Strategy outcomes.","answerText":"A new Accessible Transport Strategy is currently being finalised taking into account the representations around transport accessibility made to my Department and others during the recent public consultation on Programme for Government Delivery Plans.\n\nIn respect of future funding, as you will be aware a Budget for 2017-18 has yet to be agreed. Therefore, no allocations can be confirmed at this time.","answerHtml":"A new Accessible Transport Strategy is currently being finalised taking into account the representations around transport accessibility made to my Department and others during the recent public consultation on Programme for Government Delivery Plans.
In respect of future funding, as you will be aware a Budget for 2017-18 has yet to be agreed. Therefore, no allocations can be confirmed at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209247%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=287674","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=287674"}},{"id":"287673","reference":"AQW 9246/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2017-01-10","answerBy":"2017-01-25","answered":"2017-01-16","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 Accessible Transportation Strategy.","answerText":"I am committed to delivering a transport network that is inclusive and accessible to all through a new Accessible Transport Strategy. The new Strategy is currently being developed taking into account the representations around transport accessibility made to my Department during the recent public consultation on my Programme for Government Delivery Plan. Issues raised around transport accessibility during other Departments’ consultations on Programme for Government will also be taken into consideration.\n\nI expect to publish an Accessible Transport Strategy later in 2017.","answerHtml":"I am committed to delivering a transport network that is inclusive and accessible to all through a new Accessible Transport Strategy. The new Strategy is currently being developed taking into account the representations around transport accessibility made to my Department during the recent public consultation on my Programme for Government Delivery Plan. Issues raised around transport accessibility during other Departments’ consultations on Programme for Government will also be taken into consideration.
I expect to publish an Accessible Transport Strategy later in 2017.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209246%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=287673","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=287673"}},{"id":"287672","reference":"AQW 9245/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2017-01-10","answerBy":"2017-01-25","answered":"2017-01-18","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 her Department's definition of rural.","answerText":"The Department does not apply a single definition of rural but instead takes a flexible approach depending on the issue under consideration. However, a useful reference is the ‘Review of the Statistical Classification and Delineation of Settlements’ published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) in 2015. This review was not prescriptive in terms of an urban/rural definition but advised that ‘users should consider defining urban and rural areas in ways which are appropriate for different projects and programmes’. In the absence of a specific definition, a default urban-rural boundary at a settlement population of 5,000 was proposed for use.","answerHtml":"The Department does not apply a single definition of rural but instead takes a flexible approach depending on the issue under consideration. However, a useful reference is the ‘Review of the Statistical Classification and Delineation of Settlements’ published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) in 2015. This review was not prescriptive in terms of an urban/rural definition but advised that ‘users should consider defining urban and rural areas in ways which are appropriate for different projects and programmes’. In the absence of a specific definition, a default urban-rural boundary at a settlement population of 5,000 was proposed for use.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209245%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=287672","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=287672"}},{"id":"287671","reference":"AQW 9244/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2017-01-10","answerBy":"2017-01-25","answered":"2017-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his Department's definition of rural.","answerText":"The Department’s definition of rural was provided as the answer to AQW 6623/16-21. It is as follows:\n\nThe definition of urban/rural the Department uses for statistical purposes is based on settlements. Schools situated in a settlement that has a population of 5,000 or over (classified as a ‘small town’) is urban. Schools in settlements with a population of less than 5,000 are classified as rural.\n\nFurther information can be found here: http://www.nisra.gov.uk/archive/geography/review-of-the-statistical-classification-and-delineation-of-settlements-march-2015.pdf.\n\nAn alternative definition of urban/rural has been used for specific projects in the past. Specifically, the Department’s Sustainable Schools Policy defines rural areas as those outside of what were the former Belfast and Derry City Council areas.","answerHtml":"The Department’s definition of rural was provided as the answer to AQW 6623/16-21. It is as follows:
The definition of urban/rural the Department uses for statistical purposes is based on settlements. Schools situated in a settlement that has a population of 5,000 or over (classified as a ‘small town’) is urban. Schools in settlements with a population of less than 5,000 are classified as rural.
Further information can be found here: http://www.nisra.gov.uk/archive/geography/review-of-the-statistical-classification-and-delineation-of-settlements-march-2015.pdf.
An alternative definition of urban/rural has been used for specific projects in the past. Specifically, the Department’s Sustainable Schools Policy defines rural areas as those outside of what were the former Belfast and Derry City Council areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209244%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=287671","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=287671"}},{"id":"288221","reference":"AQO 902/16-21","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2017-01-09","answerBy":"2017-01-16","answered":"2017-01-17","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 briefings she has received from her officials in relation to acquiring the resources to allow the Health Service to provide three cycles of IVF, as recommended in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines.","answerText":"Firstly, let me say, I do not underestimate the importance of this subject and I know that these are matters which cause many couples great emotional and financial stress.\n\nThis year marks the 30th anniversary of the first baby born in the North as a result of IVF. Publicly funded fertility services have been available since 2001. Access to publicly funded services is based on eligibility criteria agreed after public consultation in 2006 and updated following a further public consultation in 2009.\n\nThe current publicly funded service provision in the north (also established in 2009) is that one cycle of IVF (or similar fertility treatment) is provided to eligible patients and, provided the patient was referred on or after 1 April 2012, when the technology was introduced at the Regional Fertility Clinic, one frozen embryo transfer.\n\nThe Department has endorsed the 2013 National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Clinical Guideline on Fertility which recommends, among other things, that women should be offered three full cycles of IVF. However, regrettably, due to budget pressures, it has not yet been possible to implement this. This is due to the significant cost implications of implementation which have to be carefully considered within the context of ongoing budget pressures and other competing HSC services requiring new investment in the years ahead.\n\nWhile I am currently unable to provide a timescale for full implementation of the guideline, I am keeping the situation under review. I am currently considering briefing from officials on options for future service provision. These options are being costed and I can advise you that, while funding an increase in the number of treatment cycles will remain a challenge, I intend to examine all practical options for improving the service currently offered.","answerHtml":"Firstly, let me say, I do not underestimate the importance of this subject and I know that these are matters which cause many couples great emotional and financial stress.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the first baby born in the North as a result of IVF. Publicly funded fertility services have been available since 2001. Access to publicly funded services is based on eligibility criteria agreed after public consultation in 2006 and updated following a further public consultation in 2009.
The current publicly funded service provision in the north (also established in 2009) is that one cycle of IVF (or similar fertility treatment) is provided to eligible patients and, provided the patient was referred on or after 1 April 2012, when the technology was introduced at the Regional Fertility Clinic, one frozen embryo transfer.
The Department has endorsed the 2013 National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Clinical Guideline on Fertility which recommends, among other things, that women should be offered three full cycles of IVF. However, regrettably, due to budget pressures, it has not yet been possible to implement this. This is due to the significant cost implications of implementation which have to be carefully considered within the context of ongoing budget pressures and other competing HSC services requiring new investment in the years ahead.
While I am currently unable to provide a timescale for full implementation of the guideline, I am keeping the situation under review. I am currently considering briefing from officials on options for future service provision. These options are being costed and I can advise you that, while funding an increase in the number of treatment cycles will remain a challenge, I intend to examine all practical options for improving the service currently offered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20902%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=288221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=288221"}},{"id":"287460","reference":"AQO 876/16-21","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2017-01-09","answerBy":"2017-01-16","answered":"2017-01-16","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre report on the cost of division has been factored into the 2017-18 Executive Budget.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Ó Muilleoir","text":"Gabhaim buíochas leis an Chomhalta as a ceist. Since this is the last Question Time that I will be doing for some time, no doubt, it is appropriate that I thank all the Members who have tabled questions over the last seven or eight months. I also thank the wonderful staff we have in the Department of Finance who have been working hard to provide the materials that you need for your questions for written answer and helping me with these questions for oral answer."},{"speaker":"","text":"The report on the cost of division, which the Member has highlighted before, outlined the significant complexity in the cost of the delivery of services here, which cannot be merely attributed to the context of a divided society. The report found that, whilst the cost of public service provision is generally higher than in comparative regions, the costs typically fall within the range of costs identified in other regions, with the exception of policing. In any Executive, Ministers will be focused on reducing the cost of public services, especially where there are reducing budgets."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"The Minister has, in recent days, rightly raised concerns about the costs of RHI, which could reach £500 million over a 20-year contract period, but he seems less concerned that the cost of division is around £800 million a year. Will he outline how he intends to reduce that cost?"},{"speaker":"Mr Ó Muilleoir","text":"Gabhaim buíochas arís leis an Chomhalta as an cheist. I think that we are all agreed, certainly those on this side of the Chamber, that there should be no division in our society. My record will show that I am as concerned about division and the cost of division as the Member. I have been forthright in commending those who have been building bridges rather than building walls. I have gone to many parts of this jurisdiction in the last few months, which represents reaching out to communities other than those from which I come. We do not in any way tolerate the costs of division, but there are costs of division, and, in response to your question, I said that that was particularly evident with the PSNI. Despite that, any costs of division are costs that, in my view, we should try to remove not by efficiency savings but by bringing our people together. Those of us who are concerned about the horrendous waste of public funds in the RHI mess, created by my colleagues on the other side of the Chamber, should not lose sight of all the other areas in which we should try to save money. We should do these things not only because they are right in terms of economics but because they are right in terms of building a shared and prosperous society."},{"speaker":"Ms S Bradley","text":"On the topic of division and looking at it in an economic context, will the Minister give an assessment of what he thinks the economic impact will be on Northern Ireland of the antics and the catastrophic mess provided by the DUP/Sinn Féin Government during the past mandate?"},{"speaker":"Mr Ó Muilleoir","text":"There must be an election coming, and I hope and trust that all those who have spoken today do very well in that election. When we go to the doors, the people will, I think, ask one pertinent question. They will ask, \"Did you stand for equality? Did you stand against the disrespect shown to our ethnic minorities? Did you stand against the disrespect shown to the LGBT community? Did you stand against the disrespect shown to the Irish language community? Did you stand up for tolerance, mutual respect and parity of esteem?\". When those questions are asked, I am absolutely convinced that we will be able to answer — [Interruption.]"},{"speaker":"","text":"— positively to the public, and the public will respond accordingly. When the public ask, \"Did you stand up after many years of outreach, bridge-building and peacemaking? Did you call time on intolerance and bigotry and the lack of parity of esteem?\" — [Interruption.]"},{"speaker":"","text":"It is a very excitable and excited Chamber today, a LeasCheann Comhairle. I am confident that the people will give their response. I wish the Member well in the forthcoming election, but I have no doubt that those from my party who answer positively about standing up for equality, respect and the integrity of the institutions, which have absolutely been dragged through the gutter by the DUP, will get their response. I hope that she also does well in the election."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr McGlone)","text":"Before I call the next Member, I remind Members not to make remarks from a seated position while the Minister or any other Member has the Floor. Thank you."},{"speaker":"Mr McCartney","text":"Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire as na freagraí sin. I thank the Minister for his answers. We talked about the cost of division, but I ask him to talk about the reputational damage to the Assembly that has come about as a result of some disgraceful decisions that were blatantly discriminatory, sectarian in the truest sense of the word and partisan. What reputational damage have those decisions done to the Assembly?"},{"speaker":"Mr Ó Muilleoir","text":"Gabhaim buíochas leis an Chomhaltas as Doire as an cheist sin a chur. I know that the Speaker said earlier that this was not the last day of the Assembly, but I think that we know in our hearts that this is the last day. The language that we use today and the approach that we take will be important. It is disappointing that, on a day when the DUP could have repaired some of the damage that it has done to the credibility of the institutions, there was no humility shown. There was the barracking of opponents, and there was the arrogance that, in fact, has been the downfall of the DUP and of the institutions. In my view, we can either stand here proud of the institutions, proud of the Assembly and proud of how we do our business, or we have to call time and say that it is closing time. We have responded because of the reputational damage and because of the fact that the DUP has been riding roughshod over the rights and expressions of the people and the rights of the Assembly. The DUP has repeatedly disrespected the people's right to enjoy the principles of parity of esteem enshrined in the Good Friday Agreement. It was right, at some point, to say that the reputation is shot and it is time now to start anew. In that regard, I know that the Member from Derry will agree that we cannot go back. We would be totally failing the people if we went back to the status quo."},{"speaker":"Mrs Overend","text":"Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, for the opportunity to ask the Minister a question. The paradoxically entitled Fresh Start Agreement included a commitment of £500 million of funding from the Treasury to be spent on shared housing and shared education projects. Will the Minister explain why,18 months into a 10-year timescale, the Executive have spent only £500,000, which is 0·1% of the total amount?"},{"speaker":"Mr Ó Muilleoir","text":"I would like to respond for the Executive Office, for the entire Executive and for the Minister for Communities and the Minister of Education, who are responsible for education and housing. Having responded for the Minister of Health earlier, I suppose that I might as well make it a hat-trick and respond for them as well. Ms Armstrong spoke earlier, and she is very familiar with the work of Belfast Met. My position is that we should try to expeditiously use money for integrated and shared education and for shared housing. There is a need in that to acknowledge that there are those who have been setting down criteria for shared housing in particular that are almost unreachable. It was my intention to put forward plans for government developments that would have included an element of shared housing. I raised the issue with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, David Gauke, before Christmas. I said to him that we needed more flexibility, especially around education because, as the Member will understand, there are only so many integrated schools that we can build. We have a great record of building new integrated schools and will continue to do that, but there are only a certain number of integrated schools that we can build. In that regard, it seems to me that there should be an extension of the flexibility around that funding to embrace further education. I know that there are ambitious plans for a new further education college in Fermanagh. We know that we are close to having other further education colleges finished, and they, for me, seem to be the epitome of shared education, but, at present, the funding does not extend to those. It had been my hope that we could make rapid progress in that regard. An element of the Budget that I was to put forward was that we should try to set a target for shared housing in particular and make sure that it happened. The public are up for that. I can speak only for my constituency, Mrs Overend, but I have no doubt that, were we to create a shared housing model on the Ormeau Road, for example, it would prosper and succeed."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20876%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=287460","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2017-01-16&docID=287719#AQO%20876/16-21","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=287460"}},{"id":"286803","reference":"AQW 9065/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-19","answerBy":"2016-12-23","answered":"2017-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment on the impact of the revocation of Open Electric’s licence on (i) their consumers; and (ii) the wider energy market.","answerText":"The actions taken by the Utility Regulator, Power NI and Northern Ireland Electricity Networks under the “Supplier of Last Resort” process have ensured no disruption to supply for the former customers of Open Electric. Power NI will write to all those affected providing a transfer pack containing essential information and the Regulator has published question and answer guidance on its website. Customers who have transferred may elect to remain with Power NI or switch to another supplier.\n\nWhile Open Electric’s exit from the electricity supply market means one less supply option for customers it is important to put that into perspective. As a supplier that entered the market just over one year ago, it served just over one thousand customers.\n\nWith its exit from the market there are still five domestic electricity suppliers and eight active suppliers in the industrial and commercial market.","answerHtml":"The actions taken by the Utility Regulator, Power NI and Northern Ireland Electricity Networks under the “Supplier of Last Resort” process have ensured no disruption to supply for the former customers of Open Electric. Power NI will write to all those affected providing a transfer pack containing essential information and the Regulator has published question and answer guidance on its website. Customers who have transferred may elect to remain with Power NI or switch to another supplier.
While Open Electric’s exit from the electricity supply market means one less supply option for customers it is important to put that into perspective. As a supplier that entered the market just over one year ago, it served just over one thousand customers.
With its exit from the market there are still five domestic electricity suppliers and eight active suppliers in the industrial and commercial market.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209065%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=286803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=286803"}},{"id":"286785","reference":"AQW 9047/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-19","answerBy":"2017-01-06","answered":"2017-01-10","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 the Northern Ireland Environment Agency's policy in relation to the responsibility of an off-mains sewage system.","answerText":"Under the Water (Northern Ireland) Order 1999, the consent of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs is required to make a discharge of sewage effluent from an off mains sewage system into a waterway or water contained in underground stratum.\n\nThe responsibility for obtaining such consents lies with the individual(s) making the discharge in question, and once, consent has been issued responsibility for compliance rests with the holder of said consent.","answerHtml":"Under the Water (Northern Ireland) Order 1999, the consent of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs is required to make a discharge of sewage effluent from an off mains sewage system into a waterway or water contained in underground stratum.
The responsibility for obtaining such consents lies with the individual(s) making the discharge in question, and once, consent has been issued responsibility for compliance rests with the holder of said consent.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209047%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=286785","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=286785"}},{"id":"286783","reference":"AQW 9045/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-19","answerBy":"2017-01-06","answered":"2017-01-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education , pursuant to AQW 8375/16-21 whether Special Educational Needs support to schools is being put under pressure by the lack of funding for SEN staff to travel to rural schools.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that there has been no change to SEN support to rural schools and no change to the arrangements for travel in this regard. Training and support are provided equitably to both rural and urban settings.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that there has been no change to SEN support to rural schools and no change to the arrangements for travel in this regard. Training and support are provided equitably to both rural and urban settings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209045%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=286783","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=286783"}},{"id":"286057","reference":"AQW 9008/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-09","answerBy":"2016-12-29","answered":"2016-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail what internal review has begun into the purchase of the MV Strangford 2 ferry, given that cars are unable to disembark from the vessel at high tide.","answerText":"The problem with the vehicle ramp on the ferry was discovered as part of the normal due diligence and commissioning checks carried out ahead of new facilities coming into service. This matter is now in the process of being resolved. No investigation is proposed but as with all capital projects a post-project evaluation will be carried out in due course.","answerHtml":"The problem with the vehicle ramp on the ferry was discovered as part of the normal due diligence and commissioning checks carried out ahead of new facilities coming into service. This matter is now in the process of being resolved. No investigation is proposed but as with all capital projects a post-project evaluation will be carried out in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209008%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=286057","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=286057"}},{"id":"285951","reference":"AQW 8902/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-09","answerBy":"2016-12-15","answered":"2016-12-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline (i) the expected timetable; and (ii) cost for making sufficient alterations to the MV Strangford 2 ferry to enable cars to disembark from the vessel at high tide.","answerText":"The costs to rectify the issue with the vehicle ramp on the MV Strangford 2 are estimated at approximately £12,000. It is expected that the alteration to the ramp will be carried out over the next four to five days, after which the Maritime and Coastguard Agency will be asked to provide a Passenger Certificate.","answerHtml":"The costs to rectify the issue with the vehicle ramp on the MV Strangford 2 are estimated at approximately £12,000. It is expected that the alteration to the ramp will be carried out over the next four to five days, after which the Maritime and Coastguard Agency will be asked to provide a Passenger Certificate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208902%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285951"}},{"id":"285870","reference":"AQW 8874/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-08","answerBy":"2016-12-23","answered":"2016-12-21","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 waiting times for mental health services provision in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Mental health is one of my key priorities. I am committed to moving towards parity of esteem for mental health, as well as continuing to reform and improve services.\n\nTable 1, overleaf, details waiting times for adult mental health service provision in the South Eastern Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust at 30th October 2016.\n\nTable 1\n\nWaiting time (weeks)\tTotal\n0 - 3\t>3 - 6\t>6\n320\t179\t40\t539\n\nSource: Health and Social Care based on monthly returns received from the HSC Trusts\n\nPlease note that the South Eastern HSC Trust Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service provision is managed by and reported under the Belfast HSC Trust.\n\nI am firmly of the view that the current waiting lists are unacceptably long. However, unless we tackle the root causes this will remain the case, as we have a 20th century model delivering services for a 21st century population. This is having an increasingly negative impact on the quality and experience of care. The long term solution is the transformation of our health and social care system as outlined in Delivering Together.\n\nIt is only in transforming the health and social care system and by implementing new models of care that we will be able to alleviate the pressures on our health and social care services, sustain improvements in waiting times and deliver better outcomes for patients.\n\nIt is important to recognise HSC staff who notwithstanding the structural issues, continue to work incredibly hard and on average deliver 9,000 outpatient appointments, 2,600 inpatient/day case procedures and 31,000 diagnostic tests per week.","answerHtml":"Mental health is one of my key priorities. I am committed to moving towards parity of esteem for mental health, as well as continuing to reform and improve services.
Table 1, overleaf, details waiting times for adult mental health service provision in the South Eastern Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust at 30th October 2016.
Table 1
| Waiting time (weeks) | Total | ||
| 0 - 3 | >3 - 6 | >6 | |
| 320 | 179 | 40 | 539 |
Source: Health and Social Care based on monthly returns received from the HSC Trusts
Please note that the South Eastern HSC Trust Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service provision is managed by and reported under the Belfast HSC Trust.
I am firmly of the view that the current waiting lists are unacceptably long. However, unless we tackle the root causes this will remain the case, as we have a 20th century model delivering services for a 21st century population. This is having an increasingly negative impact on the quality and experience of care. The long term solution is the transformation of our health and social care system as outlined in Delivering Together.
It is only in transforming the health and social care system and by implementing new models of care that we will be able to alleviate the pressures on our health and social care services, sustain improvements in waiting times and deliver better outcomes for patients.
It is important to recognise HSC staff who notwithstanding the structural issues, continue to work incredibly hard and on average deliver 9,000 outpatient appointments, 2,600 inpatient/day case procedures and 31,000 diagnostic tests per week.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208874%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285870","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285870"}},{"id":"285869","reference":"AQW 8873/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-08","answerBy":"2016-12-23","answered":"2016-12-19","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 community psychiatric nurses employed in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust in each year since 2011.","answerText":"Information on the number of community psychiatric nurses employed in the South Eastern HSC Trust, in each year since 2011, is detailed in the table below.\n\nCommunity Psychiatric Nurses Employed\n\nYear\tAdult Services\tMental Health Services for Older People\tTotal\n2011\t88\t9\t97\n2012\t95\t9\t104\n2013\t95\t14\t109\n2014\t94\t18\t112\n2015\t89\t16\t105\n2016\t100\t20\t120\n\nSource: South Eastern HSC Trust","answerHtml":"Information on the number of community psychiatric nurses employed in the South Eastern HSC Trust, in each year since 2011, is detailed in the table below.
Community Psychiatric Nurses Employed
| Year | Adult Services | Mental Health Services for Older People | Total |
| 2011 | 88 | 9 | 97 |
| 2012 | 95 | 9 | 104 |
| 2013 | 95 | 14 | 109 |
| 2014 | 94 | 18 | 112 |
| 2015 | 89 | 16 | 105 |
| 2016 | 100 | 20 | 120 |
Source: South Eastern HSC Trust
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208873%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285869","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285869"}},{"id":"285868","reference":"AQW 8872/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-08","answerBy":"2016-12-23","answered":"2016-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many psychiatrists are employed in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Information on the number of psychiatrists employed in the South Eastern HSC Trust is detailed in the table below.\n\nGrade\tHeadcount\tWTE\nConsultant\t22\t20.95\nAssociate Specialist\t3\t2.58\nSpecialty Doctor\t8\t6.50\nTotal\t33\t30.03\n\nSource: South Eastern HSC Trust","answerHtml":"Information on the number of psychiatrists employed in the South Eastern HSC Trust is detailed in the table below.
| Grade | Headcount | WTE |
| Consultant | 22 | 20.95 |
| Associate Specialist | 3 | 2.58 |
| Specialty Doctor | 8 | 6.50 |
| Total | 33 | 30.03 |
Source: South Eastern HSC Trust
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208872%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285868","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285868"}},{"id":"285821","reference":"AQW 8825/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-08","answerBy":"2016-12-23","answered":"2016-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what plans he has to revise the core syllabus for religious education to include non-religious worldviews.","answerText":"I currently have no plans to revise the Religious Education (RE) core syllabus.\n\nThe RE core syllabus aims to reflect the changing world and enables Key Stage 2 pupils to become aware of and have respect for differing cultures and faiths, as well as providing for Key Stage 3 pupils to study two world religions. The core syllabus outlines the minimum content only, and teachers have the flexibility to cover additional topics in order to best meet the needs of their pupils.\n\nParents have the right to withdraw their child from all or part of RE on the grounds of conscience and teachers also have the right to be excused from teaching all or part of RE.A","answerHtml":"I currently have no plans to revise the Religious Education (RE) core syllabus.
The RE core syllabus aims to reflect the changing world and enables Key Stage 2 pupils to become aware of and have respect for differing cultures and faiths, as well as providing for Key Stage 3 pupils to study two world religions. The core syllabus outlines the minimum content only, and teachers have the flexibility to cover additional topics in order to best meet the needs of their pupils.
Parents have the right to withdraw their child from all or part of RE on the grounds of conscience and teachers also have the right to be excused from teaching all or part of RE.A
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208825%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285821","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285821"}},{"id":"285820","reference":"AQW 8824/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-08","answerBy":"2016-12-23","answered":"2016-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the meetings he has has with Northern Ireland Humanists since May 2016.","answerText":"I have not had any meetings with Northern Ireland Humanists since May 2016.","answerHtml":"I have not had any meetings with Northern Ireland Humanists since May 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208824%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285820","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285820"}},{"id":"285618","reference":"AQW 8709/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-07","answerBy":"2016-12-22","answered":"2016-12-20","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 when he will publish the Independent Review of Integrated Education.","answerText":"I am currently considering the review report. No final decision has been made on the date of publication.","answerHtml":"I am currently considering the review report. No final decision has been made on the date of publication.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208709%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285618","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285618"}},{"id":"285285","reference":"AQW 8608/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-06","answerBy":"2016-12-21","answered":"2016-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education pursuant to AQW 7732/16-21 and if there is no 'one size fits all' frequency, to outline how Section 7(3)(d) the level of participation in shared education and the extent to which there has been any increase or decrease in participation, be effectively monitored and reviewed.","answerText":"The Education Authority monitors the levels of participation at the individual school level against a baseline established as part of a partnership application. Additionally, the proportion of schools which have partnered in shared education and the proportion of a school (one class, more than one class or whole school) involved in shared education are measured through the annual school omnibus survey.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority monitors the levels of participation at the individual school level against a baseline established as part of a partnership application. Additionally, the proportion of schools which have partnered in shared education and the proportion of a school (one class, more than one class or whole school) involved in shared education are measured through the annual school omnibus survey.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208608%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285285","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285285"}},{"id":"285018","reference":"AQW 8533/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-05","answerBy":"2016-12-20","answered":"2016-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of children that have a Special Educational Needs statement for each year from 2011.","answerText":"The number of pupils recorded on the Department’s annual school census with a statement of special educational needs is as follows:\n\n2011/12\t14,090\n2012/13\t14,554\n2013/14\t15,249\n2014/15\t15,978\n2015/16\t16,572\n\nSource: NI school census\n\nNotes:\n\nFigures include funded children in voluntary and private preschools, nursery schools, primary (including nursery, reception and year 1-7 classes), post primary and special schools.\n\nFigures include pupils at stage 5 on the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice as recorded by the school.","answerHtml":"The number of pupils recorded on the Department’s annual school census with a statement of special educational needs is as follows:
| 2011/12 | 14,090 |
| 2012/13 | 14,554 |
| 2013/14 | 15,249 |
| 2014/15 | 15,978 |
| 2015/16 | 16,572 |
Source: NI school census
Notes:
Figures include funded children in voluntary and private preschools, nursery schools, primary (including nursery, reception and year 1-7 classes), post primary and special schools.
Figures include pupils at stage 5 on the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice as recorded by the school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208533%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285018","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285018"}},{"id":"285017","reference":"AQW 8532/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-05","answerBy":"2016-12-20","answered":"2016-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education in light of the challenges which the Education Authority encountered in implementing the DSC Shared Education Signature Project, including the major underspend compared to the projected expenditure for this Project, to outline any departmental concerns about the roll-out of the SEUPB Peace IV Shared Education Project.","answerText":"The assessment process for Peace IV is still in progress and it is therefore not possible to provide any assessment at this stage.\n\nChallenges encountered in implementing the DSC Shared Education Signature Project were largely due to industrial action by teaching unions in respect of the statutory assessment process, but with interim arrangement agreed with unions, spend has been increasing.","answerHtml":"The assessment process for Peace IV is still in progress and it is therefore not possible to provide any assessment at this stage.
Challenges encountered in implementing the DSC Shared Education Signature Project were largely due to industrial action by teaching unions in respect of the statutory assessment process, but with interim arrangement agreed with unions, spend has been increasing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208532%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285017","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285017"}},{"id":"285016","reference":"AQW 8531/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-05","answerBy":"2016-12-20","answered":"2016-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education in light of The Executive Office requiring all Signature Projects to reconfigure their targets in line with Outcome Based Accountability framework, whether he will publish the reconfigured targets for the Shared Education Signature Project.","answerText":"The DSC Shared Education Signature Project has used the Outcome Based Accountability (OBA) framework from its commencement. The OBA framework is used for monitoring and evaluation purposes against business plan targets. There is therefore no need to reconfigure existing business case targets.","answerHtml":"The DSC Shared Education Signature Project has used the Outcome Based Accountability (OBA) framework from its commencement. The OBA framework is used for monitoring and evaluation purposes against business plan targets. There is therefore no need to reconfigure existing business case targets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208531%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285016","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285016"}},{"id":"285015","reference":"AQW 8530/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-05","answerBy":"2016-12-20","answered":"2016-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education given that he stated on BBC Radio Ulster that the target was 352 but the Education Authority has told schools that it is 762, to outline the targets for schools participating in the Shared Education Signature Project.","answerText":"The target for the DSC Shared Education Signature Project is to increase the percentage of schools providing shared classes to 33% by end of 2017/18. At the time the target was set there were 1,068 schools (primary, post-primary and special) - hence a target of 352 schools. Statistics for 2016/17 show the number of schools has declined to 1,061 – hence the current target is 350 schools. The Education Authority reference to 762 schools relates to the number potentially eligible to participate in the programme.","answerHtml":"The target for the DSC Shared Education Signature Project is to increase the percentage of schools providing shared classes to 33% by end of 2017/18. At the time the target was set there were 1,068 schools (primary, post-primary and special) - hence a target of 352 schools. Statistics for 2016/17 show the number of schools has declined to 1,061 – hence the current target is 350 schools. The Education Authority reference to 762 schools relates to the number potentially eligible to participate in the programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208530%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285015","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285015"}},{"id":"284766","reference":"AQW 8377/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-02","answerBy":"2016-12-19","answered":"2016-12-16","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 his discussions with the Secretary of State in relation to allowing the allocation of Fresh Start Agreement money for the maintenance of schools.","answerText":"The first tranche of Fresh Start funding, announced in March 16, is for the provision of new schools in the shared and integrated education sectors. My most recent discussions with the Secretary of State have been in relation to maximising the impact of the funding going forward.\n\nThere are no proposals to apply Fresh Start funding to school maintenance activities. Maintenance is funded from the resource budget; the Fresh Start funding available is in the form of capital and would not therefore be applicable to maintenance activities.\n\nMaintenance of schools in the Controlled, Voluntary Maintained and Irish Medium sectors is the responsibility of the Education Authority (EA), while maintenance of schools in the Voluntary Grammar and Grant Maintained Integrated (GMI) sectors is the direct responsibility of the schools themselves.","answerHtml":"The first tranche of Fresh Start funding, announced in March 16, is for the provision of new schools in the shared and integrated education sectors. My most recent discussions with the Secretary of State have been in relation to maximising the impact of the funding going forward.
There are no proposals to apply Fresh Start funding to school maintenance activities. Maintenance is funded from the resource budget; the Fresh Start funding available is in the form of capital and would not therefore be applicable to maintenance activities.
Maintenance of schools in the Controlled, Voluntary Maintained and Irish Medium sectors is the responsibility of the Education Authority (EA), while maintenance of schools in the Voluntary Grammar and Grant Maintained Integrated (GMI) sectors is the direct responsibility of the schools themselves.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208377%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=284766","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=284766"}},{"id":"284764","reference":"AQW 8375/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-02","answerBy":"2016-12-19","answered":"2016-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what rural proofing has been carried out for rural schools so pupils with Special Educational Needs will not be impacted adversely.","answerText":"My officials sought clarification on the question and I understand that rural proofing was in regards to looking at special educational needs provision and the transport that is provided.\n\nThe statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) rests with schools, and the Education Authority (EA) which is responsible under legislation for identifying, assessing and making provision for children with SEN. Support for pupils with SEN is based on the individual needs of the child.\n\nWhere the Education Authority maintains a statement of special educational needs for a pupil, the decision about where a child is placed, including whether they should be provided with transport assistance will be considered as part of the statementing process.\n\nWhere a specific need for transport assistance is identified as part of this process, transport assistance will be provided. Where a specific need for transport is not identified as part of this process, or where a child does not have a statement of SEN, normal eligibility rules apply.\n\nThe SEN policy and legislative framework, supported by a statutory code of practice provides access to special educational provision and supports, in exactly the same way to children in rural areas as it does to those in urban areas.","answerHtml":"My officials sought clarification on the question and I understand that rural proofing was in regards to looking at special educational needs provision and the transport that is provided.
The statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) rests with schools, and the Education Authority (EA) which is responsible under legislation for identifying, assessing and making provision for children with SEN. Support for pupils with SEN is based on the individual needs of the child.
Where the Education Authority maintains a statement of special educational needs for a pupil, the decision about where a child is placed, including whether they should be provided with transport assistance will be considered as part of the statementing process.
Where a specific need for transport assistance is identified as part of this process, transport assistance will be provided. Where a specific need for transport is not identified as part of this process, or where a child does not have a statement of SEN, normal eligibility rules apply.
The SEN policy and legislative framework, supported by a statutory code of practice provides access to special educational provision and supports, in exactly the same way to children in rural areas as it does to those in urban areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208375%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=284764","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=284764"}},{"id":"284763","reference":"AQW 8374/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-02","answerBy":"2016-12-19","answered":"2016-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the appeals process for Special Educational Needs statementing.","answerText":"The formal appeals process for Special Educational Needs statementingis set in special education legislation, and gives parents the right, under certain circumstances, to appeal to the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST) about Education Authority (EA) decisions on SEN provision during the assessment and statementing process.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Courts Service and Tribunal Service is responsible for the SENDIST. An appeal to the Tribunal must be made within two months of any disputed decision and may be made by application to the Tribunal in writing to 2nd Floor, Royal Courts of Justice, Chichester Street, Belfast BT1 3JF, by telephone at 0300 200 7812 or by Email at tribunalsunit@courtsni.gov.uk.\n\nGuidance for parents can be found in “The Special Education Needs and Disability Tribunal – “How To Appeal” booklet which is provided by SENDIST and can be found on its website: https://www.courtsni.gov.uk/en-GB/Tribunals/SpecialEduNeedsnDisability/Documents/SENDIST-How-to-Appeal.pdf\n\nThe Education Authority also offers an informal route for dispute resolution in regard to provision being made for children with Special Educational Needs. The Dispute Avoidance and Resolution Service (DARS) provides an opportunity to resolve areas of disagreement between parents and schools and/or the EA. The DARS is an independent, confidential and informal service designed to provide an opportunity for identifying points of disagreement and finding ways forward that all parties are willing to accept. There is a DARS contact in the EA offices, independent of its Special Education section.\n\nLodging an appeal to the Tribunal does not prevent a parent from making a referral to DARS and vice versa.","answerHtml":"The formal appeals process for Special Educational Needs statementingis set in special education legislation, and gives parents the right, under certain circumstances, to appeal to the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST) about Education Authority (EA) decisions on SEN provision during the assessment and statementing process.
The Northern Ireland Courts Service and Tribunal Service is responsible for the SENDIST. An appeal to the Tribunal must be made within two months of any disputed decision and may be made by application to the Tribunal in writing to 2nd Floor, Royal Courts of Justice, Chichester Street, Belfast BT1 3JF, by telephone at 0300 200 7812 or by Email at tribunalsunit@courtsni.gov.uk.
Guidance for parents can be found in “The Special Education Needs and Disability Tribunal – “How To Appeal” booklet which is provided by SENDIST and can be found on its website: https://www.courtsni.gov.uk/en-GB/Tribunals/SpecialEduNeedsnDisability/Documents/SENDIST-How-to-Appeal.pdf
The Education Authority also offers an informal route for dispute resolution in regard to provision being made for children with Special Educational Needs. The Dispute Avoidance and Resolution Service (DARS) provides an opportunity to resolve areas of disagreement between parents and schools and/or the EA. The DARS is an independent, confidential and informal service designed to provide an opportunity for identifying points of disagreement and finding ways forward that all parties are willing to accept. There is a DARS contact in the EA offices, independent of its Special Education section.
Lodging an appeal to the Tribunal does not prevent a parent from making a referral to DARS and vice versa.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208374%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=284763","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=284763"}},{"id":"284762","reference":"AQW 8373/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-12-02","answerBy":"2016-12-19","answered":"2016-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he will be reviewing the process of Special Educational Needs statementing.","answerText":"My priority is to ensure that children and young people with SEN, and their families, have timely access to the SEN provision they need and that the entire process is underpinned by easily accessible and clear information.\n\nIn 2012 the Executive agreed that changes needed to be made to the SEN Framework. The new Framework will be made up of four key building blocks and will result in changes being made to the statutory assessment and statementing process.\n\nThe four elements of the new Framework are the SEND Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, SEN Regulations, a Code of Practice and training. The Act has received Royal Assent and the next stage will involve finalising the SEN Regulations, followed by a consultation on the new Code and training.\n\nThe implementation of the new Framework will involve the Education Authority (EA) having to make changes to their processes. For example the EA will have a duty to ensure they take into account the views of the child. There will also be changes to the format of statements and new timescales within the statutory assessment and statementing process. The new SEN Framework is to be brought in during 2017/18.","answerHtml":"My priority is to ensure that children and young people with SEN, and their families, have timely access to the SEN provision they need and that the entire process is underpinned by easily accessible and clear information.
In 2012 the Executive agreed that changes needed to be made to the SEN Framework. The new Framework will be made up of four key building blocks and will result in changes being made to the statutory assessment and statementing process.
The four elements of the new Framework are the SEND Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, SEN Regulations, a Code of Practice and training. The Act has received Royal Assent and the next stage will involve finalising the SEN Regulations, followed by a consultation on the new Code and training.
The implementation of the new Framework will involve the Education Authority (EA) having to make changes to their processes. For example the EA will have a duty to ensure they take into account the views of the child. There will also be changes to the format of statements and new timescales within the statutory assessment and statementing process. The new SEN Framework is to be brought in during 2017/18.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208373%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=284762","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=284762"}},{"id":"284115","reference":"AQW 8174/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-29","answerBy":"2016-12-14","answered":"2016-12-12","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 the level of investment for the Assisted Rural Transport Scheme for (i) 2016/2017; and (ii) 2017/2018.","answerText":"(i) The DAERA financial allocation for the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme (ARTS) in 2016/17 is £400,000.\n\n(ii) Once the Executive agrees the parameters for the Budget 2016 exercise, my Department will firm up our proposals for all programmes, including ARTS, for the 2017/2018 financial year.","answerHtml":"(i) The DAERA financial allocation for the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme (ARTS) in 2016/17 is £400,000.
(ii) Once the Executive agrees the parameters for the Budget 2016 exercise, my Department will firm up our proposals for all programmes, including ARTS, for the 2017/2018 financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208174%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=284115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=284115"}},{"id":"284113","reference":"AQW 8172/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-29","answerBy":"2016-12-14","answered":"2016-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for a breakdown of people that availed of the Affordable Warmth Scheme each year for the past 5 years, per council area.","answerText":"NI Housing Executive have provided the following table which shows the number of homes that availed of the Affordable Warmth Scheme by council area.\n\nCouncil\t\t2014/2015\nand\n2015/2016\t2016/2017\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t\t161\t233\nMid and East Antrim\t\t186\t272\nArmagh, Banbridge and Craigavon\t\t325\t275\nBelfast\t\t437\t504\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t\t269\t396\nDerry and Strabane\t\t228\t409\nFermanagh and Omagh\t\t245\t272\nMid Ulster\t\t348\t397\nNewry, Mourne and Down\t\t352\t334\nNorth Down and Ards\t\t257\t240\nLisburn and Castlereagh\t\t256\t201\nTotal\t\t3,064\t3,533\nGrand Total\t6,597","answerHtml":"NI Housing Executive have provided the following table which shows the number of homes that availed of the Affordable Warmth Scheme by council area.
| Council | 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 | 2016/2017 | |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 161 | 233 | |
| Mid and East Antrim | 186 | 272 | |
| Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon | 325 | 275 | |
| Belfast | 437 | 504 | |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 269 | 396 | |
| Derry and Strabane | 228 | 409 | |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 245 | 272 | |
| Mid Ulster | 348 | 397 | |
| Newry, Mourne and Down | 352 | 334 | |
| North Down and Ards | 257 | 240 | |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | 256 | 201 | |
| Total | 3,064 | 3,533 | |
| Grand Total | 6,597 |
I have not held any meetings with the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to discuss the continuation of the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme.
Any such meeting can only take place after the Executive has agreed the budget position for 2017/2018.
Officials meet to discuss the administration of the scheme not its continuation which is a policy issue for Ministers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208171%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=284112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=284112"}},{"id":"284111","reference":"AQW 8170/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-29","answerBy":"2016-12-14","answered":"2016-12-12","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 Senior SmartPass holders that are registered to use Dial a Lift services, broken down by Rural Transport Fund area.","answerText":"The table below details the number of Senior SmartPass holders that are registered to use Dial a Lift services broken down by the Rural Community Transport Partnership to which those SmartPass holders are members. This table is based on figures provided by the Rural Community Transport Partnerships.\n\nRural Community Transport Partnership\tNo. of Smart Pass holders\n\nCDM Community Transport\nCDM Community Transport\t838\nOut & About Community Transport\t419\n\nDown Community Transport\t399\n\nEasilink Community Transport\t1,356\n\nFermanagh Community Transport\t1,020\n\nLagan Valley Rural Transport\t395\n\nNorth Coast Community Transport\t994\n\nSouth Antrim Community Transport\t343\n\nSouthern Area Partnership\nArmagh Rural Transport\t147\nDown and Armagh Rural Transport\t461\nNewry & Mourne Community Transport\t807\n\nTotal\t7,179","answerHtml":"The table below details the number of Senior SmartPass holders that are registered to use Dial a Lift services broken down by the Rural Community Transport Partnership to which those SmartPass holders are members. This table is based on figures provided by the Rural Community Transport Partnerships.
| Rural Community Transport Partnership | No. of Smart Pass holders |
| CDM Community Transport | |
| CDM Community Transport | 838 |
| Out & About Community Transport | 419 |
| Down Community Transport | 399 |
| Easilink Community Transport | 1,356 |
| Fermanagh Community Transport | 1,020 |
| Lagan Valley Rural Transport | 395 |
| North Coast Community Transport | 994 |
| South Antrim Community Transport | 343 |
| Southern Area Partnership | |
| Armagh Rural Transport | 147 |
| Down and Armagh Rural Transport | 461 |
| Newry & Mourne Community Transport | 807 |
| Total | 7,179 |
I would advise the Member that the Rural Transport Fund was designed primarily to tackle social exclusion in rural areas and to address equality of access to transport. The definition of “rural” in the context of the Rural Transport Fund is those areas within the North of Ireland not served by the Disability Action Transport Scheme.
When referring to roads as referenced in AQW 6693/16-21 is any road which is not urban. In other words roads which are outside the development limits of towns, etc as set out in Area Plans and which are normally defined by the national speed limit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208087%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=283889","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=283889"}},{"id":"285077","reference":"AQO 839/16-21","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-24","answerBy":"2016-12-05","answered":"2016-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline his engagement with lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender advocacy groups since May 2016.","answerText":"Given the extensive remit of my Department, it is not always possible for me to engage personally with the many stakeholders and interest groups across society. My officials have met with representatives from LGB&T groups as part of the consultation on the draft Programme for Government.\n\nI have received one invitation to meet with representatives from the LGB&T community since taking up my role as Minister for Communities. Regrettably I was unable to take up that offer on that occasion due to other pressing diary commitments.\n\nI am however due to meet with representatives from The Rainbow Project early in the New Year.\n\nI have made it clear that when it comes to engagement, my door is always open.","answerHtml":"Given the extensive remit of my Department, it is not always possible for me to engage personally with the many stakeholders and interest groups across society. My officials have met with representatives from LGB&T groups as part of the consultation on the draft Programme for Government.
I have received one invitation to meet with representatives from the LGB&T community since taking up my role as Minister for Communities. Regrettably I was unable to take up that offer on that occasion due to other pressing diary commitments.
I am however due to meet with representatives from The Rainbow Project early in the New Year.
I have made it clear that when it comes to engagement, my door is always open.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20839%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=285077","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=285077"}},{"id":"282863","reference":"AQW 7732/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-22","answerBy":"2016-12-07","answered":"2016-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what is the frequency of contact for pupils that are participating in shared education.","answerText":"The Sharing Works policy defines Shared Education as sustained provision of opportunities for young people to learn together. Within this context, it is for schools to determine the frequency of contact taking into account the practicalities of delivery with their partner school(s). There is no 'one size fits all' frequency requirement.","answerHtml":"The Sharing Works policy defines Shared Education as sustained provision of opportunities for young people to learn together. Within this context, it is for schools to determine the frequency of contact taking into account the practicalities of delivery with their partner school(s). There is no 'one size fits all' frequency requirement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207732%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=282863","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=282863"}},{"id":"282862","reference":"AQW 7731/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-22","answerBy":"2016-12-07","answered":"2016-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure pursuant to AQW 6693/16-21, whether an investigation of the Shore Road, Portaferry will be carried out by his Department.","answerText":"I can advise the Member that my Department is currently assessing Shore Road, Portaferry for inclusion on the resurfacing programme later this financial year.\n\nAs with all such similar schemes, it will be subject to there being no conflict with proposed works by utilities.","answerHtml":"I can advise the Member that my Department is currently assessing Shore Road, Portaferry for inclusion on the resurfacing programme later this financial year.
As with all such similar schemes, it will be subject to there being no conflict with proposed works by utilities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207731%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=282862","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=282862"}},{"id":"282819","reference":"AQW 7688/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-22","answerBy":"2016-12-07","answered":"2016-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail how many times the Strangford ferry has been suspended or cancelled due to (i) weather conditions; and (ii) maintenance issues in the last five years.","answerText":"The number of sailings suspended due to weather and mechanical problems since January 2011 is given in the table below. Please note that the figures given in the Weather column includes fog, storm and extreme tides conditions. The ferry sails every 15 minutes during timetabled operating hours.\n\nNumber of suspended sailings\n(from approximately 22,000 sailings per year)\nYear\tWeather\tBreakdown / Essential Maintenance\tTotal\n2011\t63\t63\t126\n2012\t119\t6\t125\n2013\t77\t59\t136\n2014\t174\t51\t225\n2015\t115\t43\t158\n2016\t114\t35\t149\n(to end Nov)\nTotal\t662\t257\t919\n\nI would also like to draw your attention to the availability statistics for the service over the past five years as tabulated below. These figures exclude sailings that have been suspended due to weather and extreme tides conditions.\n\nYear\tAvailability %\n2011/2012\t99.71%\n2012/2013\t99.99%\n2013/2014\t99.66%\n2014/2015\t99.53%\n2015/2016\n(up to end November)\t99.77%","answerHtml":"The number of sailings suspended due to weather and mechanical problems since January 2011 is given in the table below. Please note that the figures given in the Weather column includes fog, storm and extreme tides conditions. The ferry sails every 15 minutes during timetabled operating hours.
| Number of suspended sailings (from approximately 22,000 sailings per year) | |||
| Year | Weather | Breakdown / Essential Maintenance | Total |
| 2011 | 63 | 63 | 126 |
| 2012 | 119 | 6 | 125 |
| 2013 | 77 | 59 | 136 |
| 2014 | 174 | 51 | 225 |
| 2015 | 115 | 43 | 158 |
| 2016 | 114 | 35 | 149 |
| (to end Nov) | |||
| Total | 662 | 257 | 919 |
I would also like to draw your attention to the availability statistics for the service over the past five years as tabulated below. These figures exclude sailings that have been suspended due to weather and extreme tides conditions.
| Year | Availability % |
| 2011/2012 | 99.71% |
| 2012/2013 | 99.99% |
| 2013/2014 | 99.66% |
| 2014/2015 | 99.53% |
| 2015/2016 (up to end November) | 99.77% |
On 22 November I announced that my Department would review the renewal process for Blue Badge holders with life-long mobility issues. My Department currently does not hold this information. The outcome of the review will direct us in identifying what cases may be considered as having a life-long mobility condition and then we will we be in a position to develop a report to identify these cases.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207687%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=282818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=282818"}},{"id":"282449","reference":"AQW 7502/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-21","answerBy":"2016-12-06","answered":"2016-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the reporting system that is in place to ensure that children with speech and language issues are recognised and support is put in place as soon as possible.","answerText":"The framework that all schools are required to follow is as set out in the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs.\n\nThis framework allows for the identification and assessment of pupils with special educational needs (SEN) across a continuum of five stages. When a pupil is identified as having a SEN-related difficulty, including speech and language difficulties, the school involved is required to respond by implementing, monitoring and reviewing relevant and purposeful measures to meet those identified needs and seeking support from external specialists, as necessary.","answerHtml":"The framework that all schools are required to follow is as set out in the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs.
This framework allows for the identification and assessment of pupils with special educational needs (SEN) across a continuum of five stages. When a pupil is identified as having a SEN-related difficulty, including speech and language difficulties, the school involved is required to respond by implementing, monitoring and reviewing relevant and purposeful measures to meet those identified needs and seeking support from external specialists, as necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207502%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=282449","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=282449"}},{"id":"282448","reference":"AQW 7501/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-21","answerBy":"2016-12-06","answered":"2016-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what is the average length of time a child with speech and language issues that is starting primary one has to wait until the appropriate support is provided in the classroom.","answerText":"The SEN Code of Practice requires every school to put relevant and purposeful measures in place for any pupil who presents with an identified special educational need. This includes those identified with speech and language difficulties.\n\nThe class teacher will immediately implement a range of appropriate support strategies when a pupil is identified and will liaise with the school’s Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator as required. School-based support will be monitored and reviewed on an ongoing basis. This will include liaising with parents in relation to accessing relevant Health-based advice/support/intervention.\n\nFor pupils whose needs are not met through these measures, after suitable review and consultation, a school may decide to refer the pupil for further assessment or input from appropriate Education Authority (EA) services. Any input from external EA services will complement and build on school-based measures.\n\nEA can provide advice, training and support from a range of services which, together with the relevant and purposeful measures put in place by a school, will result in a continuum of provision accessed according to identified need.","answerHtml":"The SEN Code of Practice requires every school to put relevant and purposeful measures in place for any pupil who presents with an identified special educational need. This includes those identified with speech and language difficulties.
The class teacher will immediately implement a range of appropriate support strategies when a pupil is identified and will liaise with the school’s Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator as required. School-based support will be monitored and reviewed on an ongoing basis. This will include liaising with parents in relation to accessing relevant Health-based advice/support/intervention.
For pupils whose needs are not met through these measures, after suitable review and consultation, a school may decide to refer the pupil for further assessment or input from appropriate Education Authority (EA) services. Any input from external EA services will complement and build on school-based measures.
EA can provide advice, training and support from a range of services which, together with the relevant and purposeful measures put in place by a school, will result in a continuum of provision accessed according to identified need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207501%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=282448","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=282448"}},{"id":"282447","reference":"AQW 7500/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-21","answerBy":"2016-12-06","answered":"2016-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how many children starting in primary one had speech and language difficulties requiring specific educational support, broken down for each year since 2006.","answerText":"A significant number of children identified by school staff as having speech and language related difficulties on entering primary one will have their needs met as a result of relevant and purposeful measures put in place by schools at Stages 1 and 2 of the Code of Practice. The Education Authority (EA) does not hold this information centrally, as the recording of these pupils is the responsibility of the school concerned.\n\nChildren may have been identified and supported by other EA Services or by Health and Social Care Trusts prior to, or at the point of starting primary one. As engagement with these services is based on need and may only be for specified or short periods of time, the overall situation is a fluid one.","answerHtml":"A significant number of children identified by school staff as having speech and language related difficulties on entering primary one will have their needs met as a result of relevant and purposeful measures put in place by schools at Stages 1 and 2 of the Code of Practice. The Education Authority (EA) does not hold this information centrally, as the recording of these pupils is the responsibility of the school concerned.
Children may have been identified and supported by other EA Services or by Health and Social Care Trusts prior to, or at the point of starting primary one. As engagement with these services is based on need and may only be for specified or short periods of time, the overall situation is a fluid one.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207500%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=282447","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=282447"}},{"id":"282126","reference":"AQW 7318/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-17","answerBy":"2016-12-02","answered":"2016-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he is aware that as a result of an ongoing landlord dispute, Blackwater Integrated College has nearly half a million pounds in rent sitting in a bank account.","answerText":"Officials from my Department and the Education Authority continue to engage in relation to Blackwater Integrated College.\n\nGrant funding of £487k, based on rental valuations provided by Land and Property Services, was allocated to Blackwater Integrated College in respect of the rental of school premises for the period 1 September 2008 to 31 March 2012. The College has been advised by my Department to hold this funding in reserve, pending receipt of agreed rental invoices from the Landlord.","answerHtml":"Officials from my Department and the Education Authority continue to engage in relation to Blackwater Integrated College.
Grant funding of £487k, based on rental valuations provided by Land and Property Services, was allocated to Blackwater Integrated College in respect of the rental of school premises for the period 1 September 2008 to 31 March 2012. The College has been advised by my Department to hold this funding in reserve, pending receipt of agreed rental invoices from the Landlord.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207318%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=282126","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=282126"}},{"id":"281913","reference":"AQW 7224/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-16","answerBy":"2016-11-21","answered":"2016-11-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how many operators were working on cameras in order to direct traffic flow around Belfast during severe congestion on 15 November 2016.","answerText":"There are two Traffic Control Operators on duty during all peak traffic periods. During the critical periods of an incident, such as this, on the strategic road network the operators will be augmented with additional experienced staff from within TICC.\n\nDuring this incident TICC staff undertook a number of mitigating actions to minimise the impact of the incident, including:\n\nDisplaying messages on our wide network of electronic message signs to inform the public of the incident, its impacts and potential alternative routes,\n\nAmend traffic signals timings to minimise any resulting congestion,\n\nUse of our network of 156 CCTV cameras to make informed decisions,\n\nUse of our Trafficwatchni website, social media platforms and inform local broadcasters to ensure frequent updates are available,\n\nClose liaison with PSNI to ensure a co-ordinated approach to managing the incident and to ensure prompt opening of the lanes.\n\nI can also confirm that a PSNI Traffic Management Officer was deployed to TICC to assist with management of the incident and to co-ordinate with TransportNI.","answerHtml":"There are two Traffic Control Operators on duty during all peak traffic periods. During the critical periods of an incident, such as this, on the strategic road network the operators will be augmented with additional experienced staff from within TICC.
During this incident TICC staff undertook a number of mitigating actions to minimise the impact of the incident, including:
Displaying messages on our wide network of electronic message signs to inform the public of the incident, its impacts and potential alternative routes,
Amend traffic signals timings to minimise any resulting congestion,
Use of our network of 156 CCTV cameras to make informed decisions,
Use of our Trafficwatchni website, social media platforms and inform local broadcasters to ensure frequent updates are available,
Close liaison with PSNI to ensure a co-ordinated approach to managing the incident and to ensure prompt opening of the lanes.
I can also confirm that a PSNI Traffic Management Officer was deployed to TICC to assist with management of the incident and to co-ordinate with TransportNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207224%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=281913","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=281913"}},{"id":"281711","reference":"AQW 7137/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-15","answerBy":"2016-11-30","answered":"2016-11-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether a copy of the internal departmental report on the business case for York Street interchange will be made available.","answerText":"The York Street Interchange project utilises an innovative Early Contractor Involvement delivery strategy. This strategy will allow construction to commence as quickly as possible should the necessary funds become available. Due to the nature of this strategy, the business case has not yet been finalised.\n\nThe most recent economic appraisal figures for the scheme are contained within the Traffic and Economic section of the Proposed Scheme Report. This report was published, along with the scheme’s draft Statutory Orders and Environmental Statement, in January 2015. The Proposed Scheme Report can be accessed via the project’s website (www.yorkstreetinterchange.com).","answerHtml":"The York Street Interchange project utilises an innovative Early Contractor Involvement delivery strategy. This strategy will allow construction to commence as quickly as possible should the necessary funds become available. Due to the nature of this strategy, the business case has not yet been finalised.
The most recent economic appraisal figures for the scheme are contained within the Traffic and Economic section of the Proposed Scheme Report. This report was published, along with the scheme’s draft Statutory Orders and Environmental Statement, in January 2015. The Proposed Scheme Report can be accessed via the project’s website (www.yorkstreetinterchange.com).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207137%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=281711","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=281711"}},{"id":"281710","reference":"AQW 7136/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-15","answerBy":"2016-11-30","answered":"2016-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline the economic benefits of the (i) A5; (ii) A6; and (iii) York Street interchange.","answerText":"The A5 Western Transport Corridor, York Street Interchange and A6 schemes will provide significant direct economic benefits. Benefits include reduced journey times, improved road safety and savings in vehicle operating costs. In accordance with standard transport appraisal methodology, benefits are typically measured in the form of a Benefit to Cost ratio. The current estimated Benefit to Cost ratio for each scheme is listed in the table below. These figures may change as scheme development continues.\n\nMy Department is progressing two separate projects on the A6 route; the Randalstown to Castledawson and Derry to Dungiven schemes. Figures for both A6 projects have been included.\n\nScheme Name\tBenefit to Cost Ratio\nA5 Western Transport Corridor\t1.88\nA6 Randalstown to Castledawson\t2.35\nA6 Derry to Dungiven\t1.35\nYork Street Interchange\t2.33\n\nThe Benefit to Cost ratio demonstrates the level of return on investment. For example, every £1 spent on the A5 Western Transport Corridor should deliver £1.88 of benefits over the standard 60 year appraisal period.\n\nIn addition to the direct economic benefits considered as part of the ratios above, each scheme may deliver wider economic benefits. These wider benefits may include increased productivity due to improved accessibility between businesses, enhanced business profitability due to reduced transport costs and access to a wider labour pool; all of which encourage investment.","answerHtml":"The A5 Western Transport Corridor, York Street Interchange and A6 schemes will provide significant direct economic benefits. Benefits include reduced journey times, improved road safety and savings in vehicle operating costs. In accordance with standard transport appraisal methodology, benefits are typically measured in the form of a Benefit to Cost ratio. The current estimated Benefit to Cost ratio for each scheme is listed in the table below. These figures may change as scheme development continues.
My Department is progressing two separate projects on the A6 route; the Randalstown to Castledawson and Derry to Dungiven schemes. Figures for both A6 projects have been included.
| Scheme Name | Benefit to Cost Ratio |
| A5 Western Transport Corridor | 1.88 |
| A6 Randalstown to Castledawson | 2.35 |
| A6 Derry to Dungiven | 1.35 |
| York Street Interchange | 2.33 |
The Benefit to Cost ratio demonstrates the level of return on investment. For example, every £1 spent on the A5 Western Transport Corridor should deliver £1.88 of benefits over the standard 60 year appraisal period.
In addition to the direct economic benefits considered as part of the ratios above, each scheme may deliver wider economic benefits. These wider benefits may include increased productivity due to improved accessibility between businesses, enhanced business profitability due to reduced transport costs and access to a wider labour pool; all of which encourage investment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207136%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=281710","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=281710"}},{"id":"281199","reference":"AQW 6931/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-10","answerBy":"2016-11-25","answered":"2016-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline (i) why Grant Maintained Integrated schools pay VAT on free school meals; and (ii) why this cost cannot be recovered from the school budget.","answerText":"(i) The rules in relation to how VAT is charged and the rates applied are determined by HM Revenue and Customs. Where a Grant Maintained Integrated school chooses to contract out its school meals service (including free school meals) to a third party, such as the EA or another commercial organisation, we understand that the service may be subject to VAT depending on the service supplier VAT status.\n\n(ii) From 2014-15, as a result of the Independent Review of the Common Funding Scheme, VG and GMI schools are now able to submit VAT in Grant claims to the Department for the amount of VAT incurred on allowable expenditure. VAT reimbursement incurred on canteen expenditure, including free schools meals, is not allowable and DE does not provide VAT in Grant funding for this.","answerHtml":"(i) The rules in relation to how VAT is charged and the rates applied are determined by HM Revenue and Customs. Where a Grant Maintained Integrated school chooses to contract out its school meals service (including free school meals) to a third party, such as the EA or another commercial organisation, we understand that the service may be subject to VAT depending on the service supplier VAT status.
(ii) From 2014-15, as a result of the Independent Review of the Common Funding Scheme, VG and GMI schools are now able to submit VAT in Grant claims to the Department for the amount of VAT incurred on allowable expenditure. VAT reimbursement incurred on canteen expenditure, including free schools meals, is not allowable and DE does not provide VAT in Grant funding for this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206931%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=281199","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=281199"}},{"id":"281198","reference":"AQW 6930/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-10","answerBy":"2016-11-25","answered":"2016-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline for how many years is a school classified as a new school.","answerText":"My Department does not have a classification for “new schools”.\n\nWhen a school is newly established it is done so through the approval of a Development Proposal to establish a grant-aided school of a specific management type and size in an identified location.\n\nFor a school to be newly established it must meet certain requirements to become a grant-aided school and initially be eligible for recurrent funding and in time to be eligible for capital funding. I refer the Member to my answer to her earlier question (AQW5356/16-21 refers) published on 28 October 2016 which set out the requirements under the Sustainable Schools Policy (SSP) for minimum Year 8 intakes for newly established post – primary schools.\n\nFor a newly established primary school to be eligible for recurrent funding it must have 15 Year 1 pupils in the first year and 20 pupils Year 1 pupils in all subsequent years to reach a total of 140 for urban areas and for rural areas a school must have 12 Year 1 pupils in the first year and 15 Year 1 pupils in subsequent years to reach a total of 105. To become eligible for capital funding a school must demonstrate stable enrolment trends at or above the SSP minimum over a period of 3 consecutive years following its establishment.\n\nDuring the development phase a recently established school is expected to grow in line with the minimum requirement set out in the SSP from Year 1 for Primary schools or Year 8 for Post-primary schools. This phased growth will be considered during the Area Planning process against the SSP criteria.\n\nHowever, should a recently established school be unable to demonstrate sustained pupil growth I expect the relevant school planning authorities to review the situation and take appropriate action to address sustainability. The overriding consideration must always be the pupils involved.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have a classification for “new schools”.
When a school is newly established it is done so through the approval of a Development Proposal to establish a grant-aided school of a specific management type and size in an identified location.
For a school to be newly established it must meet certain requirements to become a grant-aided school and initially be eligible for recurrent funding and in time to be eligible for capital funding. I refer the Member to my answer to her earlier question (AQW5356/16-21 refers) published on 28 October 2016 which set out the requirements under the Sustainable Schools Policy (SSP) for minimum Year 8 intakes for newly established post – primary schools.
For a newly established primary school to be eligible for recurrent funding it must have 15 Year 1 pupils in the first year and 20 pupils Year 1 pupils in all subsequent years to reach a total of 140 for urban areas and for rural areas a school must have 12 Year 1 pupils in the first year and 15 Year 1 pupils in subsequent years to reach a total of 105. To become eligible for capital funding a school must demonstrate stable enrolment trends at or above the SSP minimum over a period of 3 consecutive years following its establishment.
During the development phase a recently established school is expected to grow in line with the minimum requirement set out in the SSP from Year 1 for Primary schools or Year 8 for Post-primary schools. This phased growth will be considered during the Area Planning process against the SSP criteria.
However, should a recently established school be unable to demonstrate sustained pupil growth I expect the relevant school planning authorities to review the situation and take appropriate action to address sustainability. The overriding consideration must always be the pupils involved.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206930%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=281198","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=281198"}},{"id":"281197","reference":"AQW 6929/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-10","answerBy":"2016-11-25","answered":"2016-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many schools have not yet achieved capital viability.","answerText":"Five schools have not yet reached capital viability. These schools are:\n\nGaelscoil na Speiríní (Draperstown),\n\nGaelscoil an Lonnáin (Belfast),\n\nGaelscoil na Daróige (Londonderry),\n\nGaelcholáiste Dhoire (Dungiven) and;\n\nBlackwater Integrated College (Downpatrick).","answerHtml":"Five schools have not yet reached capital viability. These schools are:
Gaelscoil na Speiríní (Draperstown),
Gaelscoil an Lonnáin (Belfast),
Gaelscoil na Daróige (Londonderry),
Gaelcholáiste Dhoire (Dungiven) and;
Blackwater Integrated College (Downpatrick).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206929%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=281197","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=281197"}},{"id":"281196","reference":"AQW 6928/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-10","answerBy":"2016-11-25","answered":"2016-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education pursuant to AQW 5356/16-21, to detail the urgent works.","answerText":"Urgent works to remove asbestos from the boiler house at Blackwater Integrated College were completed in June 2015. A scheme to re-insulate the boiler house was completed in September 2016.","answerHtml":"Urgent works to remove asbestos from the boiler house at Blackwater Integrated College were completed in June 2015. A scheme to re-insulate the boiler house was completed in September 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206928%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=281196","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=281196"}},{"id":"280900","reference":"AQW 6770/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-09","answerBy":"2016-11-24","answered":"2016-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure pursuant to AQW 6091/16-21, for a breakdown of the activities the funding is to be allocated for in each division.","answerText":"This funding is to be targeted entirely on capital structural maintenance activities, primarily the resurfacing and reconstruction of the road network across all Divisions.","answerHtml":"This funding is to be targeted entirely on capital structural maintenance activities, primarily the resurfacing and reconstruction of the road network across all Divisions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206770%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280900","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280900"}},{"id":"280612","reference":"AQW 6694/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-08","answerBy":"2016-11-23","answered":"2016-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to (i) confirm which footpaths are owned by Transport NI in Portaferry; and (ii) provide a map marking which footpaths are within his Department/Transport NI ownership and which are not.","answerText":"I should clarify for the Member’s benefit that there are subtle differences between the adoption, ownership and maintenance responsibility of footways and indeed carriageways. In the majority of cases the Department/TransportNI does not own the footways but has control over them, including for maintenance responsibility, by virtue of the handover at the reorganisation of local government in 1973 or for more recent developments by way of formal adoption under the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980.\n\nIn many cases the householder owns the bed and soil below the footway. As such, a map as requested is not readily available.\n\nI am assuming the Member may have a particular location in mind and if this is the case I would ask you to contact the local TransportNI Section Office in Newtownards with the details of the request so that the status can be established.","answerHtml":"I should clarify for the Member’s benefit that there are subtle differences between the adoption, ownership and maintenance responsibility of footways and indeed carriageways. In the majority of cases the Department/TransportNI does not own the footways but has control over them, including for maintenance responsibility, by virtue of the handover at the reorganisation of local government in 1973 or for more recent developments by way of formal adoption under the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980.
In many cases the householder owns the bed and soil below the footway. As such, a map as requested is not readily available.
I am assuming the Member may have a particular location in mind and if this is the case I would ask you to contact the local TransportNI Section Office in Newtownards with the details of the request so that the status can be established.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206694%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280612","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280612"}},{"id":"280611","reference":"AQW 6693/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-08","answerBy":"2016-11-23","answered":"2016-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether the recent investment in rural roads included an investigation on the Shore Road, Portaferry following the investment in the new ferry.","answerText":"I would advise the Member that the Rural Roads Initiative which I announced earlier this year was for resurfacing stretches of roads in rural areas. Shore Road in Portaferry lies within the town boundary therefore I can confirm that it was not considered for inclusion in this initiative.","answerHtml":"I would advise the Member that the Rural Roads Initiative which I announced earlier this year was for resurfacing stretches of roads in rural areas. Shore Road in Portaferry lies within the town boundary therefore I can confirm that it was not considered for inclusion in this initiative.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206693%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280611","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280611"}},{"id":"280593","reference":"AQW 6675/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-08","answerBy":"2016-11-23","answered":"2016-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline any evidence to show improved academic educational outcomes from shared education rather than just improvement in access to more curriculum subjects.","answerText":"It is too early to assess the improvement in academic educational outcomes from Shared Education. Mechanisms are in place to gather evidence but it will take time to accurately assess the impact.","answerHtml":"It is too early to assess the improvement in academic educational outcomes from Shared Education. Mechanisms are in place to gather evidence but it will take time to accurately assess the impact.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206675%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280593","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280593"}},{"id":"280592","reference":"AQW 6674/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-08","answerBy":"2016-11-23","answered":"2016-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what is the net cost saving that the Shared Education Programme has achieved in each of the last four years.","answerText":"The Delivering Social Change Signature Project is not predicated on the delivery of cost savings. However, collaborative working provides the opportunity to make more efficient use of resources and collaborative procurement arrangements have the potential to result in savings for individual school budgets. Any such saving impact is captured within individual school budgets and will vary considerably depending on the level of collaboration.","answerHtml":"The Delivering Social Change Signature Project is not predicated on the delivery of cost savings. However, collaborative working provides the opportunity to make more efficient use of resources and collaborative procurement arrangements have the potential to result in savings for individual school budgets. Any such saving impact is captured within individual school budgets and will vary considerably depending on the level of collaboration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206674%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280592","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280592"}},{"id":"280591","reference":"AQW 6673/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-08","answerBy":"2016-11-23","answered":"2016-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what is the cost per pupil for schools if every child participates in shared education.","answerText":"The cost per pupil will vary considerably depending on a range of factors, including a school’s level of Shared Education experience; delivery method, amount of time spent in shared learning, transport costs as well as the number of shared learning opportunities in which a pupil participates.\n\nConsequently it is not possible to provide a cost per pupil if every child participates in Shared Education.","answerHtml":"The cost per pupil will vary considerably depending on a range of factors, including a school’s level of Shared Education experience; delivery method, amount of time spent in shared learning, transport costs as well as the number of shared learning opportunities in which a pupil participates.
Consequently it is not possible to provide a cost per pupil if every child participates in Shared Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206673%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280591","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280591"}},{"id":"280274","reference":"AQW 6560/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-07","answerBy":"2016-11-22","answered":"2016-11-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how much funding has been spent on (i) buses; and (ii) other forms of transport since the start of the Shared Education Signature Project.","answerText":"The total spend on transport up to end of September 2017 is £156,176 of which £152,184 relates to hiring of vehicles and £3,992 relates to school mileage.","answerHtml":"The total spend on transport up to end of September 2017 is £156,176 of which £152,184 relates to hiring of vehicles and £3,992 relates to school mileage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206560%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280274","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280274"}},{"id":"280267","reference":"AQW 6553/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-07","answerBy":"2016-11-22","answered":"2016-11-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how the cost of shared education will be met when the current Atlantic Philanthropy funding is exhausted.","answerText":"The Sharing Works policy commits to use the learning from both the Delivering Social Change Signature Project and Peace IV Shared Education initiative, as well as other long standing practices of collaborative, inclusive and citizenship education to determine how best to support educational establishments in offering Shared Education in the longer term when current funding streams end.","answerHtml":"The Sharing Works policy commits to use the learning from both the Delivering Social Change Signature Project and Peace IV Shared Education initiative, as well as other long standing practices of collaborative, inclusive and citizenship education to determine how best to support educational establishments in offering Shared Education in the longer term when current funding streams end.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206553%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280267","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280267"}},{"id":"280266","reference":"AQW 6552/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-07","answerBy":"2016-11-22","answered":"2016-11-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline how the Education and Training Inspectorate have (i) monitored; and (ii) evaluated the impact of the Shared Education Programme.","answerText":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI), as part of its on-going schools inspection programme, monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of collaborative links and partnerships between and among schools, including those developed under the shared education programme. Through its District Inspector network, the ETI will, where appropriate, monitor the progress of partnership schools as they develop shared education provision for their learners.\n\n(2)The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) was commissioned by the Department of Education to provide an independent evaluation of the Shared Education Signature Project and will issue a final report in 2018.\n\nTo date, ETI has carried out a number of evaluations of school partnerships, and based on the evidence from these has written a draft interim report which will soon be published on its web site.\n\nThe ETI has just commenced another round of baseline, monitoring and management visits, with further visits taking place through 2017 to inform the final report in 2018.","answerHtml":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI), as part of its on-going schools inspection programme, monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of collaborative links and partnerships between and among schools, including those developed under the shared education programme. Through its District Inspector network, the ETI will, where appropriate, monitor the progress of partnership schools as they develop shared education provision for their learners.
(2)The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) was commissioned by the Department of Education to provide an independent evaluation of the Shared Education Signature Project and will issue a final report in 2018.
To date, ETI has carried out a number of evaluations of school partnerships, and based on the evidence from these has written a draft interim report which will soon be published on its web site.
The ETI has just commenced another round of baseline, monitoring and management visits, with further visits taking place through 2017 to inform the final report in 2018.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206552%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280266","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280266"}},{"id":"280265","reference":"AQW 6551/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-07","answerBy":"2016-11-22","answered":"2016-12-12","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 measures, other than lowering cooperation tax, is he examining to drive job creation.","answerText":"The new Economic Strategy, which will shortly be issued for consultation, will set out our ambitious, long term vision to transform Northern Ireland into a globally competitive economy that works for everyone.\n\nThe Strategy will establish a framework for growth and identify the economic priorities that will help deliver this vision.","answerHtml":"The new Economic Strategy, which will shortly be issued for consultation, will set out our ambitious, long term vision to transform Northern Ireland into a globally competitive economy that works for everyone.
The Strategy will establish a framework for growth and identify the economic priorities that will help deliver this vision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206551%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280265","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280265"}},{"id":"280264","reference":"AQW 6550/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-11-07","answerBy":"2016-11-22","answered":"2016-11-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) how many times the five levels of (a) management boards; and (b) committees met in each year; and (ii) what is the difference between their roles and functions.","answerText":"(i)The Delivering Social Change (DSC) Ministerial Sub-Committees has met six times, the DSC Programme Board ten times, the DSC Atlantic Philanthropies Programme Board fourteen times and the DSC Shared Education Signature Project (SESP) twelve times. The Expert Advisory Committee do not hold meetings; members are commissioned as appropriate to provide expert opinion.\n\n(ii) DSC Ministerial Sub-Committees\n\nThe Delivering Social Change Ministerial Sub-Committees on Poverty and Social Inclusion and Children and Young People were established to lead and oversee the Delivering Social Change programme of work.\n\nDSC Programme Board\n\nThe role of the DSC Programme Board is to oversee the delivery of the DSC delivery framework and to ensure that key milestones and targets are achieved. The Board oversees a family of initiatives, monitoring in particular project formation and delivery.\n\nDSC Atlantic Philanthropies Programme Board\n\nThe DSC/AP Programme Board oversee joint DSC/Atlantic Philanthropies initiatives. Its role is to provide the DSC SESP Project Board with the necessary authorisation for the project to proceed, monitoring progress and address any problems.\n\nDSC Shared Education Signature Project (SESP) Board\n\nThe DSC SESP Project Board, chaired by DE, comprises representatives from AP, TEO and the Education Authority. It provides strategic management of the Shared Education Signature Project.","answerHtml":"(i)The Delivering Social Change (DSC) Ministerial Sub-Committees has met six times, the DSC Programme Board ten times, the DSC Atlantic Philanthropies Programme Board fourteen times and the DSC Shared Education Signature Project (SESP) twelve times. The Expert Advisory Committee do not hold meetings; members are commissioned as appropriate to provide expert opinion.
(ii) DSC Ministerial Sub-Committees
The Delivering Social Change Ministerial Sub-Committees on Poverty and Social Inclusion and Children and Young People were established to lead and oversee the Delivering Social Change programme of work.
DSC Programme Board
The role of the DSC Programme Board is to oversee the delivery of the DSC delivery framework and to ensure that key milestones and targets are achieved. The Board oversees a family of initiatives, monitoring in particular project formation and delivery.
DSC Atlantic Philanthropies Programme Board
The DSC/AP Programme Board oversee joint DSC/Atlantic Philanthropies initiatives. Its role is to provide the DSC SESP Project Board with the necessary authorisation for the project to proceed, monitoring progress and address any problems.
DSC Shared Education Signature Project (SESP) Board
The DSC SESP Project Board, chaired by DE, comprises representatives from AP, TEO and the Education Authority. It provides strategic management of the Shared Education Signature Project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206550%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280264","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280264"}},{"id":"279679","reference":"AQW 6427/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-28","answerBy":"2016-11-14","answered":"2016-11-11","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 European funding desiginated for schools with no previous partnerships in shared education.","answerText":"My Department has been working with the Irish Department of Education and Skills and the Special EU Programmes Body to appoint a delivery agent for the programme.\n\nThis process is nearing completion and the applications process for schools and early years settings is expected to take place early in 2017. Sharing involving early years, schools and youth to school partnerships will then commence later in 2017.","answerHtml":"My Department has been working with the Irish Department of Education and Skills and the Special EU Programmes Body to appoint a delivery agent for the programme.
This process is nearing completion and the applications process for schools and early years settings is expected to take place early in 2017. Sharing involving early years, schools and youth to school partnerships will then commence later in 2017.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206427%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=279679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=279679"}},{"id":"279678","reference":"AQW 6426/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-28","answerBy":"2016-11-14","answered":"2016-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many teacher exchanges have taken place through the Shared Education Signature Project.","answerText":"To date no teacher exchanges have taken place through the Shared Education Signature Project. However, teacher exchanges are one of the elements of the Shared Education Capacity Building Strategy which is commencing implementation.","answerHtml":"To date no teacher exchanges have taken place through the Shared Education Signature Project. However, teacher exchanges are one of the elements of the Shared Education Capacity Building Strategy which is commencing implementation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206426%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=279678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=279678"}},{"id":"279677","reference":"AQW 6425/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-28","answerBy":"2016-11-14","answered":"2016-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how much of the shared education funding has been spent on teacher cover.","answerText":"To date £954,687 has been spent on teacher cover from the DSC Shared Education Signature Project.","answerHtml":"To date £954,687 has been spent on teacher cover from the DSC Shared Education Signature Project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206425%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=279677","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=279677"}},{"id":"279676","reference":"AQW 6424/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-28","answerBy":"2016-11-14","answered":"2016-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how much of the Shared Education Funding has been spent on administration and support roles in the last four years.","answerText":"Funding for Shared Education has been available through the Delivering Social Change Signature project from 2014/15. Up to end September 2016, £381,850 was spent on administration and support roles to implement the DSC Shared Education Signature Project.","answerHtml":"Funding for Shared Education has been available through the Delivering Social Change Signature project from 2014/15. Up to end September 2016, £381,850 was spent on administration and support roles to implement the DSC Shared Education Signature Project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206424%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=279676","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=279676"}},{"id":"279675","reference":"AQW 6423/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-28","answerBy":"2016-11-14","answered":"2016-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what professional development programmes are in place to support teachers that are participating in shared education programmes.","answerText":"A capacity building strategy has been developed to provide professional development, which will include engaging Higher Education Institutions/teacher training providers. Workshops have been held with teachers/school managers to outline plans and elicit views on proposed plans. The Education Authority is now moving to implementation with the strategy being launched in two phases:\n\n(i) Short courses – a suite of short modules in areas key to the delivery of shared education and covering key skills for management and development of shared partnerships; and\n\n(ii) Networks of learning – a programme supporting and facilitating school improvement collaboration between teachers in shared education partnerships that includes coaching and mentoring, teacher knowledge exchanges and provision of online learning.\n\nThe project also provides professional development for Principals to support the delivery of a shared partnership vision. To date 218 Principals have attended.\n\nSchool coordinators have also been provided with professional development in the role and skills required to perform associated duties.","answerHtml":"A capacity building strategy has been developed to provide professional development, which will include engaging Higher Education Institutions/teacher training providers. Workshops have been held with teachers/school managers to outline plans and elicit views on proposed plans. The Education Authority is now moving to implementation with the strategy being launched in two phases:
(i) Short courses – a suite of short modules in areas key to the delivery of shared education and covering key skills for management and development of shared partnerships; and
(ii) Networks of learning – a programme supporting and facilitating school improvement collaboration between teachers in shared education partnerships that includes coaching and mentoring, teacher knowledge exchanges and provision of online learning.
The project also provides professional development for Principals to support the delivery of a shared partnership vision. To date 218 Principals have attended.
School coordinators have also been provided with professional development in the role and skills required to perform associated duties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206423%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=279675","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=279675"}},{"id":"279566","reference":"AQW 6352/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-27","answerBy":"2016-11-11","answered":"2016-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for a breakdown of the number of pupils participating in shared education programmes in the last four years; and how this compares to the targets set in his Department's business plan.","answerText":"Due to industrial action by teaching unions, implementation of the Shared Signature Project commenced in 2015/16. In this period, 22,036 individual pupils participated in shared classes, of which 12,406 participated in more than one shared activity. Figures for 2016/17 will be available at the end of the academic year but the number of pupils is set to increase as schools progress their action plans.\n\nTargets set in the business case in respect of increasing the number of young people participating in shared education are based on \"maintaining the percentage of schools engaged in shared education on a whole school basis at 15% rising to 20% by 2018/19 and maintaining the percentage of schools involving more than one class at 13% increasing to 80% by 2018/19 rather than on individual numbers of pupils.\" This is measured through the school omnibus survey. Results of the 2016 survey are not yet available, but the 2015 survey showed that the percentage of schools engaged on a whole school basis being maintained with the percentage of schools involving more than one class rising to 67.6%. Given the impact of industrial action during this period these are encouraging results.","answerHtml":"Due to industrial action by teaching unions, implementation of the Shared Signature Project commenced in 2015/16. In this period, 22,036 individual pupils participated in shared classes, of which 12,406 participated in more than one shared activity. Figures for 2016/17 will be available at the end of the academic year but the number of pupils is set to increase as schools progress their action plans.
Targets set in the business case in respect of increasing the number of young people participating in shared education are based on "maintaining the percentage of schools engaged in shared education on a whole school basis at 15% rising to 20% by 2018/19 and maintaining the percentage of schools involving more than one class at 13% increasing to 80% by 2018/19 rather than on individual numbers of pupils." This is measured through the school omnibus survey. Results of the 2016 survey are not yet available, but the 2015 survey showed that the percentage of schools engaged on a whole school basis being maintained with the percentage of schools involving more than one class rising to 67.6%. Given the impact of industrial action during this period these are encouraging results.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206352%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=279566","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=279566"}},{"id":"279565","reference":"AQW 6351/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-27","answerBy":"2016-11-11","answered":"2016-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) how much funding for shared education has been disseminated to schools over the last four years; and (ii) how does it compare to the projected spending for the same time period.","answerText":"(i) Over the past 3 years £2,432,721 has been made available to schools through the DSC Shared Education Signature Project, of which £1,750,674 relates to grants to schools and £682,047 relates to support for schools.\n\n(ii) This is less than projected spending for the Project as a result of the impact of industrial action by teaching unions that resulted in most schools that were successful in their funding application not being able to progress to implementation.","answerHtml":"(i) Over the past 3 years £2,432,721 has been made available to schools through the DSC Shared Education Signature Project, of which £1,750,674 relates to grants to schools and £682,047 relates to support for schools.
(ii) This is less than projected spending for the Project as a result of the impact of industrial action by teaching unions that resulted in most schools that were successful in their funding application not being able to progress to implementation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206351%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=279565","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=279565"}},{"id":"279564","reference":"AQW 6350/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-27","answerBy":"2016-11-11","answered":"2016-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many new school partnerships have been established through the Shared Education Signature Project where no pervious partnerships existed.","answerText":"The Shared Education Signature Project is designed to further embed shared education within school partnerships that have previous experience of sharing. There are currently such 134 partnerships that have successfully applied for funding. An additional call for applications issued in September 2016.\n\nThe Peace IV Shared Education application call has been designed to support schools with no or limited experience of shared education; Peace IV is expected to become operational in 2017.","answerHtml":"The Shared Education Signature Project is designed to further embed shared education within school partnerships that have previous experience of sharing. There are currently such 134 partnerships that have successfully applied for funding. An additional call for applications issued in September 2016.
The Peace IV Shared Education application call has been designed to support schools with no or limited experience of shared education; Peace IV is expected to become operational in 2017.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206350%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=279564","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=279564"}},{"id":"279563","reference":"AQW 6349/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-27","answerBy":"2016-11-11","answered":"2016-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education why has he extended the period for schools to apply for shared education funding.","answerText":"Early implementation of the Delivering Social Change Shared Education Signature Project was adversely impacted by industrial action by Teaching Unions in relation to the statutory assessment process. This resulted in a significant number of schools not being able to progress their four year action plans and in some cases, potential school partnerships deferring application for funding. While industrial action is continuing, agreement was reached with Teaching Unions to allow those school engaged in the Signature Project to proceed with implementation.\n\nThe decision to extend the period avoids pupils and schools being negatively impacted by the industrial action and allows schools sufficient time to progress action plans. For those partnerships that decided to proceed, the decision to extend the period allows those schools to extend the scope and/or scale of their action plans.","answerHtml":"Early implementation of the Delivering Social Change Shared Education Signature Project was adversely impacted by industrial action by Teaching Unions in relation to the statutory assessment process. This resulted in a significant number of schools not being able to progress their four year action plans and in some cases, potential school partnerships deferring application for funding. While industrial action is continuing, agreement was reached with Teaching Unions to allow those school engaged in the Signature Project to proceed with implementation.
The decision to extend the period avoids pupils and schools being negatively impacted by the industrial action and allows schools sufficient time to progress action plans. For those partnerships that decided to proceed, the decision to extend the period allows those schools to extend the scope and/or scale of their action plans.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206349%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=279563","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=279563"}},{"id":"279558","reference":"AQW 6344/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-27","answerBy":"2016-11-11","answered":"2016-12-15","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 waiting times for audiology services by referral to assessment; and assessment to treatment.","answerText":"The 2015/16 Ministerial diagnostic waiting time target states that by March 2017, 75% of patients should wait no longer than 9 weeks for a diagnostic test, with no patient waiting longer than 26 weeks.\n\nI am firmly of the view that the current waiting lists are unacceptably long. However, unless we tackle the root causes this will remain the case, as we have a 20th century model delivering services for a 21st century population. This is having an increasingly negative impact on the quality and experience of care. The long term solution is the transformation of our health and social care system as outlined in Delivering Together.\n\nIt is only in transforming the health and social care system and by implementing new models of care that we will be able to alleviate the pressures on our health and social care services, sustain improvements in waiting times and deliver better outcomes for patients.\n\nThat said, I would pay tribute to the staff across the Health & social care sector. Notwithstanding the structural issues, they continue to work incredibly hard and on average deliver 9,000 outpatient appointments, 2,600 inpatient/day case procedures and 31,000 diagnostic tests per week.\n\nThe latest information available on the number of patients waiting for a diagnostic pure tone audiometry test can be found in Table 1 below.\n\nTable 1. Number of patients waiting for a diagnostic pure tone audiometry test, by weeks waiting, at 30th June 2016.\n\n0-6 Weeks\t>6-9 Weeks\t>9-13 Weeks\t>13-21 Weeks\t>21-26 Weeks\t>26 Weeks\tTotal Waiting\nPure tone audiometry\t1,724\t659\t493\t693\t341\t43\t3,953\n\nSource: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/hs-niwts-diagnostc-waiting-times-q1-16-17.pdf\n\nInformation on completed waits for people waiting for a hearing aid is collected by the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB). The latest available information can be found in Table 2 below.\n\nTable 2. Completed Waits – Length of time waiting for a hearing aid following assessment (September 2016).\n\n0-3 Weeks\t>3-6 Weeks\t>6-9 Weeks\t>9-13 Weeks\t>13 Weeks\tTotal Completed Waits\n315\t259\t289\t289\t542\t1,694\n\nSource: Health and Social Care Board","answerHtml":"The 2015/16 Ministerial diagnostic waiting time target states that by March 2017, 75% of patients should wait no longer than 9 weeks for a diagnostic test, with no patient waiting longer than 26 weeks.
I am firmly of the view that the current waiting lists are unacceptably long. However, unless we tackle the root causes this will remain the case, as we have a 20th century model delivering services for a 21st century population. This is having an increasingly negative impact on the quality and experience of care. The long term solution is the transformation of our health and social care system as outlined in Delivering Together.
It is only in transforming the health and social care system and by implementing new models of care that we will be able to alleviate the pressures on our health and social care services, sustain improvements in waiting times and deliver better outcomes for patients.
That said, I would pay tribute to the staff across the Health & social care sector. Notwithstanding the structural issues, they continue to work incredibly hard and on average deliver 9,000 outpatient appointments, 2,600 inpatient/day case procedures and 31,000 diagnostic tests per week.
The latest information available on the number of patients waiting for a diagnostic pure tone audiometry test can be found in Table 1 below.
Table 1. Number of patients waiting for a diagnostic pure tone audiometry test, by weeks waiting, at 30th June 2016.
| 0-6 Weeks | >6-9 Weeks | >9-13 Weeks | >13-21 Weeks | >21-26 Weeks | >26 Weeks | Total Waiting | |
| Pure tone audiometry | 1,724 | 659 | 493 | 693 | 341 | 43 | 3,953 |
Source: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/hs-niwts-diagnostc-waiting-times-q1-16-17.pdf
Information on completed waits for people waiting for a hearing aid is collected by the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB). The latest available information can be found in Table 2 below.
Table 2. Completed Waits – Length of time waiting for a hearing aid following assessment (September 2016).
| 0-3 Weeks | >3-6 Weeks | >6-9 Weeks | >9-13 Weeks | >13 Weeks | Total Completed Waits |
| 315 | 259 | 289 | 289 | 542 | 1,694 |
Source: Health and Social Care Board
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206344%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=279558","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=279558"}},{"id":"281795","reference":"AQO 664/16-21","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-27","answerBy":"2016-11-15","answered":"2016-11-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how his Department and the Education Authority will ensure all of the £50 million capital investment from the Fresh Start Agreement will be used.","answerText":"My Department is working closely with the Education Authority to progress the Fresh Start Agreement (FSA) programme of new capital builds for schools.\n\nIt will not be possible to spend £50 p.a. in the early years of the programme given that no initial work had commenced on the vast majority of the projects when they were announced. These projects are in the early stages of planning with procurement currently ongoing to appoint integrated consultant teams.\n\nI have already raised the issue of carry-over of unspent funding in the first 3 years of the scheme with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Department will continue to engage with the Northern Ireland Office regarding future tranches of projects to ensure that allocation of FSA funding has a maximum impact on shared and integrated education here.\n\nIn addition I announced a call for new proposals for Shared Education Campus projects in September.\n\nI have also raised with the Secretary of State the possibility of directing FSA funds to assisting Integrated schools under a future School Enhancement Programme call for capital projects.","answerHtml":"My Department is working closely with the Education Authority to progress the Fresh Start Agreement (FSA) programme of new capital builds for schools.
It will not be possible to spend £50 p.a. in the early years of the programme given that no initial work had commenced on the vast majority of the projects when they were announced. These projects are in the early stages of planning with procurement currently ongoing to appoint integrated consultant teams.
I have already raised the issue of carry-over of unspent funding in the first 3 years of the scheme with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.
The Department will continue to engage with the Northern Ireland Office regarding future tranches of projects to ensure that allocation of FSA funding has a maximum impact on shared and integrated education here.
In addition I announced a call for new proposals for Shared Education Campus projects in September.
I have also raised with the Secretary of State the possibility of directing FSA funds to assisting Integrated schools under a future School Enhancement Programme call for capital projects.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20664%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=281795","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=281795"}},{"id":"281595","reference":"AQO 654/16-21","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-27","answerBy":"2016-11-14","answered":"2016-11-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether a full disability access assessment will be carried out on Newtownards courthouse.","answerText":"Disabled access at Newtownards Courthouse includes ramped access to the building, power assisted doors and induction loop systems. A platform lift for wheelchair users or persons with reduced mobility allows disabled access to the courtrooms on the first floor. Lift access to the first floor court office is not available, but an area on the ground floor is available for disabled court users to access court office services. There are also disabled toilet facilities and a disabled parking bay within the court precincts.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service is committed to keep the issue of disability assess under review across the court estate including at Newtownards Courthouse and will be conducting an assessment at Newtownards early in 2017.","answerHtml":"Disabled access at Newtownards Courthouse includes ramped access to the building, power assisted doors and induction loop systems. A platform lift for wheelchair users or persons with reduced mobility allows disabled access to the courtrooms on the first floor. Lift access to the first floor court office is not available, but an area on the ground floor is available for disabled court users to access court office services. There are also disabled toilet facilities and a disabled parking bay within the court precincts.
The Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service is committed to keep the issue of disability assess under review across the court estate including at Newtownards Courthouse and will be conducting an assessment at Newtownards early in 2017.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20654%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=281595","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=281595"}},{"id":"279234","reference":"AQW 6241/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-26","answerBy":"2016-11-10","answered":"2016-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline her Department's policy on allocating patient appointments; and whether distance from the hospital is taken into account.","answerText":"Outpatient appointments are allocated on the basis of the patient’s clinical priority with urgent patients seen and treated first. Patients with the same clinical priority are treated in chronological order. The Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts operate partial booking systems which allow patients to arrange their outpatient appointments for a date and time that suit them. Six weeks prior to appointment, patients are issued with a letter inviting them to contact the HSC Trust to confirm or make an appointment. If a date does not suit, they are offered an alternative date and time.\n\nHSC Trusts will take into account any specific needs for patients as far as possible and where these are known to the Trust, for example arranging a time, day or location to suit travelling distance and transport arrangements. However some specialities only hold clinics on certain sites so it is not always possible to give patients appointments at a location close to their home. In some cases, patients may be offered an appointment at a more distant site because it has shorter waiting times.","answerHtml":"Outpatient appointments are allocated on the basis of the patient’s clinical priority with urgent patients seen and treated first. Patients with the same clinical priority are treated in chronological order. The Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts operate partial booking systems which allow patients to arrange their outpatient appointments for a date and time that suit them. Six weeks prior to appointment, patients are issued with a letter inviting them to contact the HSC Trust to confirm or make an appointment. If a date does not suit, they are offered an alternative date and time.
HSC Trusts will take into account any specific needs for patients as far as possible and where these are known to the Trust, for example arranging a time, day or location to suit travelling distance and transport arrangements. However some specialities only hold clinics on certain sites so it is not always possible to give patients appointments at a location close to their home. In some cases, patients may be offered an appointment at a more distant site because it has shorter waiting times.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206241%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=279234","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=279234"}},{"id":"278875","reference":"AQW 6091/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-25","answerBy":"2016-11-09","answered":"2016-11-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail how the £15m capital funding for road maintenance will be spent.","answerText":"As part of October monitoring, my Department has been allocated an additional £15m of Capital for structural maintenance activities, including the resurfacing of roads.\n\nTransportNI allocates additional funding to its four Divisions on the basis of need, using a range of weighted indicators, tailored to each maintenance activity i.e. resurfacing, patching, gully emptying, grass cutting etc. Divisions use these indicators when apportioning across council areas to ensure, as far as possible, an equitable distribution of funds.\n\nThe additional £15m for structural maintenance activities is to be allocated as follows:\n\nNorthern Division £3.5m\n\nSouthern Division £4.7m\n\nEastern Division£2.5m\n\nWestern Division£4.3m","answerHtml":"As part of October monitoring, my Department has been allocated an additional £15m of Capital for structural maintenance activities, including the resurfacing of roads.
TransportNI allocates additional funding to its four Divisions on the basis of need, using a range of weighted indicators, tailored to each maintenance activity i.e. resurfacing, patching, gully emptying, grass cutting etc. Divisions use these indicators when apportioning across council areas to ensure, as far as possible, an equitable distribution of funds.
The additional £15m for structural maintenance activities is to be allocated as follows:
Northern Division £3.5m
Southern Division £4.7m
Eastern Division£2.5m
Western Division£4.3m
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206091%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=278875","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=278875"}},{"id":"278864","reference":"AQW 6080/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-25","answerBy":"2016-11-09","answered":"2016-11-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline (i) why people on the Access to Work scheme have not been reimbursed for their cost of travel; (ii) any correspondence between his Department and those affected; and (i) when the backlog will be cleared.","answerText":"There are currently over 700 disabled people receiving assistance through the Access to Work (NI) programme. My department’s Disability Employment Service has responsibility for the management and delivery of this specialist employment programme, including the processing of all payments. There has been no policy change in relation to any aspect of the programme, and people on the Access to Work (NI) are still being reimbursed for the cost of their travel to and from their place of employment;\n\nDue to the fact that there has not been a change of policy, no official correspondence has been issued by my department to Access to Work (NI) customers. The Access to Work team respond to queries from participants, employers and other customers on a daily basis and will continue to do so;\n\n(iii) The Disability Employment Service strives to pay claims for reimbursement of costs to disabled customers as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, due to a number of unexpected staff absences recently, this caused a temporary delay in our normal payment process and timeline. To address this issue, the Disability Employment Service management put in place contingency arrangements and the Access to Work payment backlog has been cleared.","answerHtml":"There are currently over 700 disabled people receiving assistance through the Access to Work (NI) programme. My department’s Disability Employment Service has responsibility for the management and delivery of this specialist employment programme, including the processing of all payments. There has been no policy change in relation to any aspect of the programme, and people on the Access to Work (NI) are still being reimbursed for the cost of their travel to and from their place of employment;
Due to the fact that there has not been a change of policy, no official correspondence has been issued by my department to Access to Work (NI) customers. The Access to Work team respond to queries from participants, employers and other customers on a daily basis and will continue to do so;
(iii) The Disability Employment Service strives to pay claims for reimbursement of costs to disabled customers as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, due to a number of unexpected staff absences recently, this caused a temporary delay in our normal payment process and timeline. To address this issue, the Disability Employment Service management put in place contingency arrangements and the Access to Work payment backlog has been cleared.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206080%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=278864","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=278864"}},{"id":"278189","reference":"AQW 5793/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-20","answerBy":"2016-11-04","answered":"2016-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he can carry forward any unspent balance from the £50m capital investment from A Fresh Start funding for integrated and Shared Education into the next financial year.","answerText":"It is not normally possible to carry over unspent capital funding into the next financial year. However, in the case of the Fresh Start funding, I have already raised this issue with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"It is not normally possible to carry over unspent capital funding into the next financial year. However, in the case of the Fresh Start funding, I have already raised this issue with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205793%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=278189","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=278189"}},{"id":"278188","reference":"AQW 5792/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-20","answerBy":"2016-11-04","answered":"2016-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how much of the £50m capital investment from A Fresh Start funding for Integrated and Shared Education will be spent before 31 March 2017.","answerText":"Projected spend to 31 March 2017 is circa £3 million. It should be noted however that a significant portion of this is for land purchase which is assumed to be complete by 31 March 17.","answerHtml":"Projected spend to 31 March 2017 is circa £3 million. It should be noted however that a significant portion of this is for land purchase which is assumed to be complete by 31 March 17.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205792%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=278188","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=278188"}},{"id":"280418","reference":"AQO 594/16-21","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-20","answerBy":"2016-11-07","answered":"2016-11-22","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, given that the majority of rural citizens have no direct connection to either the farming or agri-food industries, to outline any discussion she has had with the Minister for the Economy in relation to policy and support for the development of other rural businesses.","answerText":"The Department for the Economy is the department with lead responsibility for developing the economy in Northern Ireland and my Department works with the Department for the Economy on the Rural White Paper Action Plan. This paper contains a number of actions aimed at supporting the sustainable development of the rural economy, including commitments to support rural businesses, encouraging the development of rural tourism and to promote the social economy in rural areas.\n\nMy Department has also taken forward initiatives including the Rural Business Investment Scheme under the Rural Development Programme and a pilot scheme under Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Programme (TRPSI) called the Rural Business Start Scheme.\n\nThe Rural Business Investment Scheme is implemented at a local level by 10 Local Action Groups (LAGs), using the LEADER methodology. The purpose of the scheme is to provide capital grant aid to help micro and small businesses create much needed jobs in all rural areas. Job creation is the major theme of the Rural Business Investment Scheme and currently 84 Letters of Offer have issued to successful applicants, worth just under £2.3m of grant aid, targeting the creation of 184 full time equivalent jobs.\n\nThe Rural Business Start Scheme is a pilot initiative which aims to encourage entrepreneurship and the creation of new self-employment opportunities for young people (18 to 30 years of age) and women and is running in the Mid Ulster area during its pilot phase. The pilot closed for applications on Friday 30 September. A review of the pilot will be completed in order to determine the longer term potential of this approach and will inform the decision on whether to roll the Scheme out to other areas.","answerHtml":"The Department for the Economy is the department with lead responsibility for developing the economy in Northern Ireland and my Department works with the Department for the Economy on the Rural White Paper Action Plan. This paper contains a number of actions aimed at supporting the sustainable development of the rural economy, including commitments to support rural businesses, encouraging the development of rural tourism and to promote the social economy in rural areas.
My Department has also taken forward initiatives including the Rural Business Investment Scheme under the Rural Development Programme and a pilot scheme under Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Programme (TRPSI) called the Rural Business Start Scheme.
The Rural Business Investment Scheme is implemented at a local level by 10 Local Action Groups (LAGs), using the LEADER methodology. The purpose of the scheme is to provide capital grant aid to help micro and small businesses create much needed jobs in all rural areas. Job creation is the major theme of the Rural Business Investment Scheme and currently 84 Letters of Offer have issued to successful applicants, worth just under £2.3m of grant aid, targeting the creation of 184 full time equivalent jobs.
The Rural Business Start Scheme is a pilot initiative which aims to encourage entrepreneurship and the creation of new self-employment opportunities for young people (18 to 30 years of age) and women and is running in the Mid Ulster area during its pilot phase. The pilot closed for applications on Friday 30 September. A review of the pilot will be completed in order to determine the longer term potential of this approach and will inform the decision on whether to roll the Scheme out to other areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20594%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=280418","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=280418"}},{"id":"278061","reference":"AQO 568/16-21","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-20","answerBy":"2016-11-07","answered":"2016-11-07","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 the specific proposals and methods of evaluation that have been developed to meet recommendation D2 of the Fresh Start Panel Report on the Disbandment of Paramilitary Groups to measurably reduce segregation in education and housing and set ambitious targets and milestones to achieve measureable progress as quickly as possible.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"The Executive action plan, which was published in July, sets out how we intend to take forward and implement all the recommendations in the three-person panel report, including arrangements for reporting progress. On good relations, we are committed to building on existing strategies and will give them ongoing consideration. Together: Building a United Community includes the establishment of 10 shared education campuses and the creation of 10 new shared housing schemes, and we are making good progress on them. Five shared education campuses are being progressed at the Moy, Limavady, Ballycastle, Brookeborough and Duneane/Moneynick. Following a third call for applications, we expect to announce the successful projects in May 2017. Under Delivering Social Change, we have a £25 million project to incentivise shared education partnerships between schools and to enhance opportunities for children and young people to learn together regardless of their religious or cultural background. Some 314 schools are engaged in 134 partnerships, and a further call for applications has been made. The shared neighbourhoods programme is also progressing well. Two schemes at Ballynafoy Close on the Ravenhill Road and Manse Court in Saintfield have been completed. A further two schemes are near completion and six others are under construction. The Executive will consider in due course how to build on this significant success."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"I thank the First Minister for her answer. What impact has the withholding by the UK Government of their contribution to funding for the action plan in the report had on delivering the recommendation?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"As I said, we are progressing well on the shared education piece. I am pleased with the number of projects for which funding has been made available, including one very close to my heart in Brookeborough. It is good to see them progressing well. Under Delivering Social Change, we have been able to give £25 million to incentivise shared education between 314 schools, which, as I think she will agree, is a very good march forward. Shared housing is also moving along very well. There has been good progress made on the sharing front. Of course, there is always more that we would like to do, but we will continue to push ahead on this agenda."},{"speaker":"Mr Smith","text":"Following the disclosure by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive that, in the last year alone, over 400 people who claimed homelessness cited paramilitary activity, how does the First Minister think that the Executive's strategy will deal with this behaviour, given that the first draft has already been rejected by the Government as falling short?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"Of course, his characterisation is wrong — the Government in Westminster have made that very clear — but I would expect him to characterise it in that fashion. Yes, I was rather alarmed to hear those figures last week. When I made enquiries into what the Housing Executive is doing on the matter, I was told that it has been able to, under Fresh Start allocations, draw down £498,000 — not an insubstantial amount of money — to deal with three programmes: one on community empowerment; one on re-imaging communities, which will try to deal with some of the issues that led to those people being rehoused; and one on bonfire management, which always becomes a very topical issue at a particular time of the year, not just in the House but in councils across the piece. Work is ongoing, with the Housing Executive in the lead, to deal with community tensions and community programmes. Again, we all have to take leadership roles on the matter. It is what we need to do in the Assembly: give leadership; say that those activities that are going on, sometimes at a very low level, are completely unacceptable; and try to move people away from those activities to more progressive and positive matters. The programmes come into their own in and around re-imaging. I saw some of the very good work that went on in the past with those projects through the Department for Social Development, as it then was. Those projects are now being put forward through the Fresh Start Agreement."},{"speaker":"Mr Attwood","text":"Given the report to the Assembly by the Minister of Finance that London will not release in-year moneys to deal with the issue because of the lack of a detailed action plan and that, one year ago this week, the DUP and Sinn Féin had a fanfare of promotion for Fresh Start, do you feel embarrassed today?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"No. I do not feel embarrassed at all, because, as I have just told you, £498,000 has been drawn down under the Fresh Start Agreement to help people in communities right across Northern Ireland under three Housing Executive programmes. That is just one part of A Fresh Start. Why would I be embarrassed about that? I am not embarrassed about it at all. In fact, it is something that we should celebrate. The money that he refers to is, of course, money that will be rolled forward into next year. Sometimes, people have this thing and think that we have lost money because a programme has not been pulled together. I would much rather that the programme be the correct one and that it really can deliver for communities. In that respect, we will be able to pull the programme together and take advantage of that money, which, as I say, has not been lost but has simply been rolled forward, so that we can deliver in a more positive way for the communities involved."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20568%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=278061","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2016-11-07&docID=279148#AQO%20568/16-21","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=278061"}},{"id":"277889","reference":"AQW 5679/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-19","answerBy":"2016-11-03","answered":"2016-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on Moss Road car park, Millisle; (ii) whether a health and safety assessment has been completed; (iii) to detail when Transport NI will repair the wall; (iv) what process Transport NI followed to ensure the cost is reclaimed from the person who caused the damage; and (v) whether the delay is due to that ongoing process.","answerText":"AQW 5679/16-21\n\nDATE FOR ANSWER: THURSDAY 3 November 2016\n\nKellie Armstrong MLA (Strangford)\n\nTo ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on Moss Road Car Park, Millisle; (ii) whether a health and safety assessment has been completed; (iii) to detail when TransportNI will repair the wall; (iv) what process TransportNI followed to ensure the cost is reclaimed from the person who caused the damage; and (v) whether the delay is due to that ongoing process.\n\nANSWER\n\nI can advise the Member as follows in response to the various points she has raised.\n\nI assume the member is referring to the perimeter wall between the footway on Moss Road and the car park which was damaged earlier this year as a result of a road traffic accident. The Member will be aware that the car park itself is no longer under the control of my Department’s TransportNI but is the responsibility of Ards & North Down Borough Council.\n\nA health and safety assessment was carried out which determined the need to provide a barrier system to keep pedestrians away from the rear of the footway given the difference in level to the car park. The barrier was then erected by TransportNI.\n\nTransportNI is actively involved in discussions with the insurers of the vehicle responsible for causing the damage and will arrange for the wall to be repaired when details have been finalised.\n\nTransportNI sought and received information from the PSNI who had attended the scene of the incident on the day it occurred, with a view to recovering the cost incurred for repairing the wall from the insurers of the vehicle.\n\nThe delay in having the wall repaired has been due to the process outlined above as information provided along the way has been partially inaccurate.\n\nSigned:\n\nCHRIS HAZZARD MLA\n\nDate:","answerHtml":"AQW 5679/16-21
DATE FOR ANSWER: THURSDAY 3 November 2016
Kellie Armstrong MLA (Strangford)
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on Moss Road Car Park, Millisle; (ii) whether a health and safety assessment has been completed; (iii) to detail when TransportNI will repair the wall; (iv) what process TransportNI followed to ensure the cost is reclaimed from the person who caused the damage; and (v) whether the delay is due to that ongoing process.
ANSWER
I can advise the Member as follows in response to the various points she has raised.
I assume the member is referring to the perimeter wall between the footway on Moss Road and the car park which was damaged earlier this year as a result of a road traffic accident. The Member will be aware that the car park itself is no longer under the control of my Department’s TransportNI but is the responsibility of Ards & North Down Borough Council.
A health and safety assessment was carried out which determined the need to provide a barrier system to keep pedestrians away from the rear of the footway given the difference in level to the car park. The barrier was then erected by TransportNI.
TransportNI is actively involved in discussions with the insurers of the vehicle responsible for causing the damage and will arrange for the wall to be repaired when details have been finalised.
TransportNI sought and received information from the PSNI who had attended the scene of the incident on the day it occurred, with a view to recovering the cost incurred for repairing the wall from the insurers of the vehicle.
The delay in having the wall repaired has been due to the process outlined above as information provided along the way has been partially inaccurate.
Signed:
CHRIS HAZZARD MLA
Date:
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205679%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277889","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277889"}},{"id":"277557","reference":"AQW 5618/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-18","answerBy":"2016-11-02","answered":"2016-11-01","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 the steps she is taking to ensure that the needs of rural citizens are considered in the action plans for the Programme for Government.","answerText":"The Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016 will come into effect for Northern Ireland departments on 1 June 2017. It provides a statutory basis for an existing Executive commitment to undertake rural proofing of all new and revised policies and strategies across government.\n\nResponsibility for carrying out rural proofing of the Programme for Government action plans lies with individual Departments. My officials are available to provide information and guidance on the rural proofing process to those involved.\n\nOn 10 October 2016, I wrote to Executive colleagues reminding them of their responsibilities under the Executive commitment and referred them to the current guidance on rural proofing. Departments, therefore, are aware of the need to consider any potential impact on rural citizens of policies, strategies, plans or services undertaken in support of the Programme for Government Framework’s implementation.","answerHtml":"The Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016 will come into effect for Northern Ireland departments on 1 June 2017. It provides a statutory basis for an existing Executive commitment to undertake rural proofing of all new and revised policies and strategies across government.
Responsibility for carrying out rural proofing of the Programme for Government action plans lies with individual Departments. My officials are available to provide information and guidance on the rural proofing process to those involved.
On 10 October 2016, I wrote to Executive colleagues reminding them of their responsibilities under the Executive commitment and referred them to the current guidance on rural proofing. Departments, therefore, are aware of the need to consider any potential impact on rural citizens of policies, strategies, plans or services undertaken in support of the Programme for Government Framework’s implementation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205618%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277557","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277557"}},{"id":"277556","reference":"AQW 5617/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-18","answerBy":"2016-11-02","answered":"2016-11-01","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 (i) her plans to progress the Rural Needs Act (Northern Ireland) 2016; and (ii) the training provided for her departmental officials and officials in other Departments.","answerText":"The Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016 was passed by the NI Assembly on 8 March and received Royal Assent on 9 May 2016 and I have decided on a phased approach to commencement. It is proposed that the Act will come into operation for Northern Ireland departments and district councils on 1 June 2017 and for the remaining public authorities listed in the schedule to the Act on 1 June 2018.\n\nThe Act provides a statutory basis for an existing commitment made by the Northern Ireland Executive in 2002, and reaffirmed in 2009, to undertake rural proofing of all new and revised policies and strategies across government. The existing training course for NICS Departmental policy makers, “Think Rural”, will be updated to reflect the requirements of the Act.","answerHtml":"The Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016 was passed by the NI Assembly on 8 March and received Royal Assent on 9 May 2016 and I have decided on a phased approach to commencement. It is proposed that the Act will come into operation for Northern Ireland departments and district councils on 1 June 2017 and for the remaining public authorities listed in the schedule to the Act on 1 June 2018.
The Act provides a statutory basis for an existing commitment made by the Northern Ireland Executive in 2002, and reaffirmed in 2009, to undertake rural proofing of all new and revised policies and strategies across government. The existing training course for NICS Departmental policy makers, “Think Rural”, will be updated to reflect the requirements of the Act.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205617%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277556","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277556"}},{"id":"277555","reference":"AQW 5616/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-18","answerBy":"2016-11-02","answered":"2016-11-01","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 (i) any plans to develop guidance for departmental officials in relation to the steps needed to consider rural needs when developing, adopting, implementing or revising policies, strategies and plans and designing and delivering public services; and (ii) plans to measure and evaluate outcomes.","answerText":"The Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016, which will come into operation first for Northern Ireland departments and district councils in June 2017, provides a statutory basis for an existing Executive commitment to undertake rural proofing of all new and revised policies and strategies across government.\n\nThe existing guidance on rural proofing “Thinking Rural”: The Essential Guide to Rural Proofing”, which can be accessed at the link below, will be reviewed and updated to take account of the new statutory requirements.\n\nhttps://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dard/guide-to-rural-proofing.pdf\n\nThis will be carried out by the Rural Development Council under its contract to provide support services to the Rural Network for the 2014-20 Rural Development Programme. They will also develop monitoring arrangements for rural proofing and a framework for measuring its impact on rural communities which can be used by public authorities to measure the outcome of their policies and strategies.\n\nThese supporting arrangements will be in place before the Act comes into operation on 1 June 2017.","answerHtml":"The Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016, which will come into operation first for Northern Ireland departments and district councils in June 2017, provides a statutory basis for an existing Executive commitment to undertake rural proofing of all new and revised policies and strategies across government.
The existing guidance on rural proofing “Thinking Rural”: The Essential Guide to Rural Proofing”, which can be accessed at the link below, will be reviewed and updated to take account of the new statutory requirements.
https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dard/guide-to-rural-proofing.pdf
This will be carried out by the Rural Development Council under its contract to provide support services to the Rural Network for the 2014-20 Rural Development Programme. They will also develop monitoring arrangements for rural proofing and a framework for measuring its impact on rural communities which can be used by public authorities to measure the outcome of their policies and strategies.
These supporting arrangements will be in place before the Act comes into operation on 1 June 2017.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205616%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277555","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277555"}},{"id":"277516","reference":"AQW 5577/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-18","answerBy":"2016-11-02","answered":"2016-12-01","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 actions his Department is taking to address the gaps in rural broadband in areas like Kearney and Quinton Bay outside Portaferry or Castle Meadows Cloughey.","answerText":"Telecoms is a reserved matter and the market is fully privatised and independently regulated. My Department cannot compel a provider to invest in infrastructure or deploy services. Public intervention can be used to encourage investment. However, these are ultimately business decisions taken by providers. Using the limited powers afforded under the Communications Act 2003, my Department has made significant investments in initiatives aimed at increasing the quality of broadband infrastructure in Northern Ireland.\n\nUnder my Department’s Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project, BT has reported, at 30 June 2016, that some 3,226 premises in the Strangford Constituency have benefited, of which 853 have taken up new broadband services delivered through this project. The contract, with BT, has a mechanism which requires funding to be returned for re-investment when take up of service exceeds a certain threshold. This will allow more premises to see improvements, including in the Strangford Constituency.\n\nMy Department is also currently delivering the Superfast Roll-out Programme. This project is expected to provide access to superfast broadband, with speeds of at least 24 Megabits per second, to a further 39,000 premises by 31 December 2017 including the Strangford constituency. Details of the current roll-out plans at 5 digit postcode level can be found at https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/superfast-rollout-programme-phase-2.\n\nIt is important to recognise that there are alternative technologies that can be used to deliver broadband services. The Department provides support under the Better Broadband Scheme, with the cost of installing a basic broadband service (using satellite or wireless technology), from a list of registered suppliers. Aimed at premises that cannot access services greater than 2Mbps, this scheme ensures that no eligible household or business need pay more than £400 to access a basic broadband scheme, over a 12 month period. Further details can be found on DfE’s website at:\n\nhttp://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/northern-ireland-better-broadband-scheme\n\nYou will also be aware that the NI Executive’s draft Programme for Government (PfG) includes an Indicator to improve internet connectivity. The outcome of the PfG and related budget discussions will dictate the nature and scale of DfE’s future telecommunications intervention.","answerHtml":"Telecoms is a reserved matter and the market is fully privatised and independently regulated. My Department cannot compel a provider to invest in infrastructure or deploy services. Public intervention can be used to encourage investment. However, these are ultimately business decisions taken by providers. Using the limited powers afforded under the Communications Act 2003, my Department has made significant investments in initiatives aimed at increasing the quality of broadband infrastructure in Northern Ireland.
Under my Department’s Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project, BT has reported, at 30 June 2016, that some 3,226 premises in the Strangford Constituency have benefited, of which 853 have taken up new broadband services delivered through this project. The contract, with BT, has a mechanism which requires funding to be returned for re-investment when take up of service exceeds a certain threshold. This will allow more premises to see improvements, including in the Strangford Constituency.
My Department is also currently delivering the Superfast Roll-out Programme. This project is expected to provide access to superfast broadband, with speeds of at least 24 Megabits per second, to a further 39,000 premises by 31 December 2017 including the Strangford constituency. Details of the current roll-out plans at 5 digit postcode level can be found at https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/superfast-rollout-programme-phase-2.
It is important to recognise that there are alternative technologies that can be used to deliver broadband services. The Department provides support under the Better Broadband Scheme, with the cost of installing a basic broadband service (using satellite or wireless technology), from a list of registered suppliers. Aimed at premises that cannot access services greater than 2Mbps, this scheme ensures that no eligible household or business need pay more than £400 to access a basic broadband scheme, over a 12 month period. Further details can be found on DfE’s website at:
http://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/northern-ireland-better-broadband-scheme
You will also be aware that the NI Executive’s draft Programme for Government (PfG) includes an Indicator to improve internet connectivity. The outcome of the PfG and related budget discussions will dictate the nature and scale of DfE’s future telecommunications intervention.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205577%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277516"}},{"id":"277314","reference":"AQW 5498/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-17","answerBy":"2016-11-01","answered":"2016-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education , given it is one of his Department's arm's-length bodies, to outline the oversight mechanisms used for the Education Authority .","answerText":"A governance and accountability framework is in place between my Department and the Education Authority (EA) to ensure that the responsibilities placed on the Department under Managing Public Money NI are adhered to.\n\nThe EA’s operating framework which covers the conditions under which public funds are paid and how the EA is to be held to account for its performance, is set out in the EA’s Management Statement and Financial Memorandum which was drawn up by DE in consultation with the EA and approved by the Department of Finance. Within that framework a number of measures and controls are in place to provide the Department with assurances in relation to accountability and performance management, arrangements for strategic and business planning, budget allocations and financial monitoring, governance and accountability reviews, risk management and audit and risk assurance.","answerHtml":"A governance and accountability framework is in place between my Department and the Education Authority (EA) to ensure that the responsibilities placed on the Department under Managing Public Money NI are adhered to.
The EA’s operating framework which covers the conditions under which public funds are paid and how the EA is to be held to account for its performance, is set out in the EA’s Management Statement and Financial Memorandum which was drawn up by DE in consultation with the EA and approved by the Department of Finance. Within that framework a number of measures and controls are in place to provide the Department with assurances in relation to accountability and performance management, arrangements for strategic and business planning, budget allocations and financial monitoring, governance and accountability reviews, risk management and audit and risk assurance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205498%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277314"}},{"id":"277313","reference":"AQW 5497/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-17","answerBy":"2016-11-01","answered":"2016-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education , pursuant to AQW 4433/16-21, to detail any discussions he has had with the Education Authority regarding the ongoing issue of repair work at Killyleagh Integrated Primary School.","answerText":"As previously advised Killyleagh Integrated Primary School is a controlled school, and as such the Education Authority is responsible for minor works and maintenance at the school. Since the response issued to AQW 4433/16-21 on 7 October, which confirmed the position regarding the ceiling repair and pipe work replacement I have not had any further discussions with Education Authority officials regarding the ongoing issue of repair work at the school.","answerHtml":"As previously advised Killyleagh Integrated Primary School is a controlled school, and as such the Education Authority is responsible for minor works and maintenance at the school. Since the response issued to AQW 4433/16-21 on 7 October, which confirmed the position regarding the ceiling repair and pipe work replacement I have not had any further discussions with Education Authority officials regarding the ongoing issue of repair work at the school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205497%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277313","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277313"}},{"id":"277312","reference":"AQW 5496/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-17","answerBy":"2016-11-01","answered":"2016-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the criteria used to determine whether a school requires capital investment.","answerText":"The criteria used to determine whether a school requires capital investment will depend on the Ministerial priorities and budget availability at any given time.\n\nBefore a project can be considered for capital investment, it must first be prioritised by the school’s Managing Authority and submitted to the Department, in response to a call for projects.\n\nThe Department’s ‘Protocol for the Selection of Major Works Projects to Proceed in Planning’ is then applied to all projects submitted. The Protocol includes a ‘gateway’ check to exclude any projects where uncertainties exist around sustainability, area planning and school size.\n\nThose projects that are successful in the ‘gateway’ check are scored under the Department’s Protocol, and ranked. Selection is then subject to the capital budget availability.\n\nThe Protocol is available on the Department’s website at the following link https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/protocol-selection-major-works-projects\n\nThe Department does not hold ‘waiting lists’ of capital projects which were previously unsuccessful in securing funding and there are no plans for a further capital announcement at present given the substantial size of the current Major Capital Investment Programme.","answerHtml":"The criteria used to determine whether a school requires capital investment will depend on the Ministerial priorities and budget availability at any given time.
Before a project can be considered for capital investment, it must first be prioritised by the school’s Managing Authority and submitted to the Department, in response to a call for projects.
The Department’s ‘Protocol for the Selection of Major Works Projects to Proceed in Planning’ is then applied to all projects submitted. The Protocol includes a ‘gateway’ check to exclude any projects where uncertainties exist around sustainability, area planning and school size.
Those projects that are successful in the ‘gateway’ check are scored under the Department’s Protocol, and ranked. Selection is then subject to the capital budget availability.
The Protocol is available on the Department’s website at the following link https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/protocol-selection-major-works-projects
The Department does not hold ‘waiting lists’ of capital projects which were previously unsuccessful in securing funding and there are no plans for a further capital announcement at present given the substantial size of the current Major Capital Investment Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205496%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277312","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277312"}},{"id":"277162","reference":"AQW 5411/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-14","answerBy":"2016-10-31","answered":"2016-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of Education Authority staff that receive a salary of (i) over £150,000 per annum; (ii) £125,000 to £150,000 per annum; (iii) £100,000 to £125,000 per annum; and (iv) £75,000 to £100,000 per annum.","answerText":"The information requested is provided in the table below:\n\nSalary Band\t£75,000 to £100,000\t£100,001 to £125,000\t£125,001 to £150,000\tMore than £150,001\nNo. of employees\t10\t*\t0\t0\n\n* denotes figure fewer than 5 suppressed to avoid potential identification of individuals.","answerHtml":"The information requested is provided in the table below:
| Salary Band | £75,000 to £100,000 | £100,001 to £125,000 | £125,001 to £150,000 | More than £150,001 |
| No. of employees | 10 | * | 0 | 0 |
* denotes figure fewer than 5 suppressed to avoid potential identification of individuals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205411%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277162","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277162"}},{"id":"277161","reference":"AQW 5410/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-14","answerBy":"2016-10-31","answered":"2016-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether there are policies in place to support teachers and schools that have received personal attacks through social media.","answerText":"The Department of Education is not the employer of teachers. The responsibility for the health, safety and wellbeing of teachers rests with their employers, their Board of Governors, in conjunction with the employing authority where relevant.\n\nTeachers’ Health and Wellbeing is a matter of the utmost importance. The teachers’ health and safety working group of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC), meets regularly to discuss ongoing issues, including Social Media concerns, and the way forward.\n\nGuidance on any abusive behaviour against teachers can be found in Circular TNC 2011/2.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education is not the employer of teachers. The responsibility for the health, safety and wellbeing of teachers rests with their employers, their Board of Governors, in conjunction with the employing authority where relevant.
Teachers’ Health and Wellbeing is a matter of the utmost importance. The teachers’ health and safety working group of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC), meets regularly to discuss ongoing issues, including Social Media concerns, and the way forward.
Guidance on any abusive behaviour against teachers can be found in Circular TNC 2011/2.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205410%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277161","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277161"}},{"id":"277160","reference":"AQW 5409/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-14","answerBy":"2016-10-31","answered":"2016-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education , pursuant to AQW 18/16-21, to detail the services provided to schools which constitute 13% of the overall budget.","answerText":"The services provided to schools which constitute 13% of the 2016-17 Education Budget includes: Transport, C2K (managed ICT service), School Meals, Headquarters, Pupil Support, Schools Development Service, Music Service and School Library Service.","answerHtml":"The services provided to schools which constitute 13% of the 2016-17 Education Budget includes: Transport, C2K (managed ICT service), School Meals, Headquarters, Pupil Support, Schools Development Service, Music Service and School Library Service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205409%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277160","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277160"}},{"id":"277159","reference":"AQW 5408/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-14","answerBy":"2016-10-31","answered":"2016-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education , pursuant to AQW 2060/16-21, how much of the €35.3m PEACE IV funding has been spent to date on Shared Education.","answerText":"The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) has not yet completed its application process to appoint delivery agents for the Peace IV Shared Education thematic area and consequently there has been no spend to date. Details of the SEUPB’s application call timetable are available under the Peace IV section of their website (www.seupb.eu).","answerHtml":"The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) has not yet completed its application process to appoint delivery agents for the Peace IV Shared Education thematic area and consequently there has been no spend to date. Details of the SEUPB’s application call timetable are available under the Peace IV section of their website (www.seupb.eu).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205408%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277159","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277159"}},{"id":"277057","reference":"AQW 5356/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-13","answerBy":"2016-10-28","answered":"2016-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education , pursuant to AQW 4172/16-21, to outline (i) why capital viability has not been achieved; and (ii) the discussions he has had with the Education Authority in relation to the school.","answerText":"The Department’s “Schools for the Future – A Policy for Sustainable Schools” (SSP) requires new post-primary schools to achieve minimum intakes of 50 pupils in the first year, 80 in the second year and 100 each year thereafter in anticipation that a minimum enrolment of 500 in Years 8-12 will be achieved. The 2015/16 enrolment at Blackwater Integrated College was 213, which falls below the SSP minimum threshold. Therefore the school has not yet met the criteria to quality for capital funding.\n\nThe school needs to be considered within the context of Area Planning to ensure sustainable provision of post-primary integrated education in this area.\n\nDepartmental officials have had discussions with the Education Authority in relation to urgent works at the school.","answerHtml":"The Department’s “Schools for the Future – A Policy for Sustainable Schools” (SSP) requires new post-primary schools to achieve minimum intakes of 50 pupils in the first year, 80 in the second year and 100 each year thereafter in anticipation that a minimum enrolment of 500 in Years 8-12 will be achieved. The 2015/16 enrolment at Blackwater Integrated College was 213, which falls below the SSP minimum threshold. Therefore the school has not yet met the criteria to quality for capital funding.
The school needs to be considered within the context of Area Planning to ensure sustainable provision of post-primary integrated education in this area.
Departmental officials have had discussions with the Education Authority in relation to urgent works at the school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205356%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=277057","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=277057"}},{"id":"276759","reference":"AQW 5150/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-12","answerBy":"2016-10-27","answered":"2016-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to outline the criteria that schools have to follow before a referral is made to an education psychologist; and (ii) whether there is a set number of referrals a school can make.","answerText":"(i) Due to the wide variation in the nature and complexity of children’s special educational needs, it is not possible to devise a single set of criteria applicable to all children on which to decide on educational psychology involvement. Statutory guidance is available to assist schools in considering the circumstances of each child. This includes the ‘Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs (1998 and Supplement 2005)’.\n\nIn addition advisory resources are available to assist schools in considering the circumstances of each child, such as:\n\n‘Provisional Criteria for Initiating Statutory Assessments of Special Educational Needs and for Making Statements of Special Educational Needs’;\n\n‘Good Practice Guidelines for Schools to meet the Special Educational Needs of Pupils at the School-Based Stages of the Code of Practice‘;\n\n‘Resource File for Schools to Support Children with Special Educational Needs’.\n\nEA educational psychologists provide advice and support to schools in forming decisions as to the children for whom they wish to utilise the allocation of educational psychology time available to the school within the current capacity of the educational psychology service. This is achieved through direct consultation with the principal of the school and/or the school’s special needs co-ordinator.\n\n(ii) Educational psychology is a statutory service. Priority is given within the service to providing the psychological advice required for statutory assessments of children’s special educational needs (i.e. Stage 4 of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs). The educational psychology service also provides advice for non-statutory assessments at Stage 3 of the Code of Practice. Whilst there are no limits imposed on the number of children that may be referred to an educational psychologist for assessment at Stage 3, the Education Authority (EA) operates a time allocation model for Educational Psychology Services where each school receives an allocation of educational psychologists’ time and then, in partnership with the EA, the school prioritises the children for assessment.\n\nWorking closely with their named Educational Psychologist, schools prioritise their pupils’ needs based on the principles of consultation, equity of access and flexibility. If information is presented to the Educational Psychologist during consultation which indicates that a pupil has exceptional circumstances, such referrals will continue to receive priority.\n\nThe EA stresses that it applies the time allocation system in as flexible a manner as possible so that, whenever possible, if a child is in relatively urgent need of an assessment, the child will get an assessment even if the time allocated to the school has already been used up.","answerHtml":"(i) Due to the wide variation in the nature and complexity of children’s special educational needs, it is not possible to devise a single set of criteria applicable to all children on which to decide on educational psychology involvement. Statutory guidance is available to assist schools in considering the circumstances of each child. This includes the ‘Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs (1998 and Supplement 2005)’.
In addition advisory resources are available to assist schools in considering the circumstances of each child, such as:
‘Provisional Criteria for Initiating Statutory Assessments of Special Educational Needs and for Making Statements of Special Educational Needs’;
‘Good Practice Guidelines for Schools to meet the Special Educational Needs of Pupils at the School-Based Stages of the Code of Practice‘;
‘Resource File for Schools to Support Children with Special Educational Needs’.
EA educational psychologists provide advice and support to schools in forming decisions as to the children for whom they wish to utilise the allocation of educational psychology time available to the school within the current capacity of the educational psychology service. This is achieved through direct consultation with the principal of the school and/or the school’s special needs co-ordinator.
(ii) Educational psychology is a statutory service. Priority is given within the service to providing the psychological advice required for statutory assessments of children’s special educational needs (i.e. Stage 4 of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs). The educational psychology service also provides advice for non-statutory assessments at Stage 3 of the Code of Practice. Whilst there are no limits imposed on the number of children that may be referred to an educational psychologist for assessment at Stage 3, the Education Authority (EA) operates a time allocation model for Educational Psychology Services where each school receives an allocation of educational psychologists’ time and then, in partnership with the EA, the school prioritises the children for assessment.
Working closely with their named Educational Psychologist, schools prioritise their pupils’ needs based on the principles of consultation, equity of access and flexibility. If information is presented to the Educational Psychologist during consultation which indicates that a pupil has exceptional circumstances, such referrals will continue to receive priority.
The EA stresses that it applies the time allocation system in as flexible a manner as possible so that, whenever possible, if a child is in relatively urgent need of an assessment, the child will get an assessment even if the time allocated to the school has already been used up.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205150%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=276759","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=276759"}},{"id":"276758","reference":"AQW 5149/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-12","answerBy":"2016-10-27","answered":"2016-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of children referred to an educational psychologist. broken down by (i) Education Authority region; and (ii) primary or post-primary sector, in each of the last five academic years.","answerText":"The Education Authority has advised that they cannot provide this data with confidence given the recent changes with its Educational Management System upgrade.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority has advised that they cannot provide this data with confidence given the recent changes with its Educational Management System upgrade.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205149%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=276758","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=276758"}},{"id":"276757","reference":"AQW 5148/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-12","answerBy":"2016-10-27","answered":"2016-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether the cost of referring a child to an educational psychologist is met by the school's budget.","answerText":"The cost of referring a child to an EA educational psychologist is not met by the school’s budget.","answerHtml":"The cost of referring a child to an EA educational psychologist is not met by the school’s budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205148%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=276757","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=276757"}},{"id":"276756","reference":"AQW 5147/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-12","answerBy":"2016-10-27","answered":"2016-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to outline his Department's policy on educational child psychologists; and (ii) to detail how many are employed in each Education Authority region.","answerText":"There is no policy as such regarding the educational psychology service but the Education Authority (EA) has a statutory duty to maintain an educational psychology service in order to assist in identifying and assessing the needs of children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN).\n\nThe numbers of Educational Psychologists employed in each Office (region) of EA, as of 3rd October 2016, are:\n\nEducation Authority Office\tNumber Employed (full-time and part-time)\tFull Time Equivalent Number employed\nBelfast\t33\t25.1\nNorth Eastern (Ballymena)\t26\t22.7\nSouthern (Armagh)\t37\t30.8\nSouth Eastern (Dundonald)\t38\t34.7\nWestern (Omagh)\t27\t22.6","answerHtml":"There is no policy as such regarding the educational psychology service but the Education Authority (EA) has a statutory duty to maintain an educational psychology service in order to assist in identifying and assessing the needs of children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
The numbers of Educational Psychologists employed in each Office (region) of EA, as of 3rd October 2016, are:
| Education Authority Office | Number Employed (full-time and part-time) | Full Time Equivalent Number employed |
| Belfast | 33 | 25.1 |
| North Eastern (Ballymena) | 26 | 22.7 |
| Southern (Armagh) | 37 | 30.8 |
| South Eastern (Dundonald) | 38 | 34.7 |
| Western (Omagh) | 27 | 22.6 |
The Delivering Social Change Shared Education Signature Project Business plan included fifteen Development officers at an annual budget of £540,000.
Following a subsequent grading exercise by Education and Library Board’s (ELB) HR function these posts were graded at a higher level than originally planned. After discussion it was agreed that ten posts at Assistant Advisory Officer grade should be recruited across the 5 ELB areas. Of these, nine were filled by September 2015.
One of the appointed officers left their post in November 2015. The post was offered to the first reserve who has been on maternity leave and is due to join the team in February 2017. This post has been filled on a temporary basis by seconding teachers as appropriate.
The recruitment process for the tenth post, which will support the recently agreed Teacher Professional Learning strand, is in progress with appointment expected in the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205146%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=276755","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=276755"}},{"id":"275620","reference":"AQW 4670/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-05","answerBy":"2016-10-13","answered":"2016-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) when the new Strangford ferry will be brought to Strangford Lough; (ii) from what date it will be operational; and (iii) why it was delayed.","answerText":"I am pleased to report that, following successful sea trials, the new ferry arrived in Strangford Lough on Saturday 8 October 2016. There will now be a period of training for the ferry crews. It is anticipated that the new ferry will be operational by late November 2016.\n\nDelivery of the vessel was originally scheduled for 31 August 2016. However, during the commissioning phase, the builder, Cammell Laird shipyard, Birkenhead, encountered some issues regarding the integration of the engines and thrusters. These issues were resolved prior to delivery of the vessel.","answerHtml":"I am pleased to report that, following successful sea trials, the new ferry arrived in Strangford Lough on Saturday 8 October 2016. There will now be a period of training for the ferry crews. It is anticipated that the new ferry will be operational by late November 2016.
Delivery of the vessel was originally scheduled for 31 August 2016. However, during the commissioning phase, the builder, Cammell Laird shipyard, Birkenhead, encountered some issues regarding the integration of the engines and thrusters. These issues were resolved prior to delivery of the vessel.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204670%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=275620","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=275620"}},{"id":"275619","reference":"AQW 4669/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-05","answerBy":"2016-10-20","answered":"2016-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the policies and training his Department has and delivers for principal teachers and Board of Governors in relation to budget managament.","answerText":"The policies which the Department has in place for Boards of Governors in relation to budget management are contained in the Financial Guides which have been established for the Controlled and Maintained schools (Guidance on Financial and Management Arrangements for Controlled and Maintained Schools Funded under the Common Funding Scheme), Voluntary Grammar schools (Financial & Audit Arrangements Manual for Voluntary Grammar Schools) and Grant-Maintained Integrated schools (Financial & Audit Arrangements for Grant-Maintained Integrated Schools).\n\nEach Guide sets out the arrangements and conditions for the payment of grant by the Department, and the financial responsibilities of Boards of Governors in ensuring that monies from grant payments are used appropriately and within the guidance provided.\n\nThe Education Authority provides training on an annual basis to both Boards of Governors and first time Principals in relation to budget management.\n\nThe Education Authority’s 2016/17 training programme for members of Boards of Governors includes a training course entitled Financial Management and Accountability. The Authority has also developed a one day training programme for first time Principals which covers local management of schools, financial planning and management, budget management and internal audit.\n\nIn addition, those teachers seeking to become Principals can avail of the Professional Qualification for Headship, which includes a module on “managing school finances”.\n\nGuidance is also contained in Chapter 8 of ‘Every School a Good School – The Governor’s Role’, which is published on my Department’s website. This explains how schools are funded and sets out the main responsibilities of the Board of Governors and the Principal in relation to the management of school finances.\n\nThe Educational television website – http://www.esags.tv/ - also hosts a short programme on school finances.","answerHtml":"The policies which the Department has in place for Boards of Governors in relation to budget management are contained in the Financial Guides which have been established for the Controlled and Maintained schools (Guidance on Financial and Management Arrangements for Controlled and Maintained Schools Funded under the Common Funding Scheme), Voluntary Grammar schools (Financial & Audit Arrangements Manual for Voluntary Grammar Schools) and Grant-Maintained Integrated schools (Financial & Audit Arrangements for Grant-Maintained Integrated Schools).
Each Guide sets out the arrangements and conditions for the payment of grant by the Department, and the financial responsibilities of Boards of Governors in ensuring that monies from grant payments are used appropriately and within the guidance provided.
The Education Authority provides training on an annual basis to both Boards of Governors and first time Principals in relation to budget management.
The Education Authority’s 2016/17 training programme for members of Boards of Governors includes a training course entitled Financial Management and Accountability. The Authority has also developed a one day training programme for first time Principals which covers local management of schools, financial planning and management, budget management and internal audit.
In addition, those teachers seeking to become Principals can avail of the Professional Qualification for Headship, which includes a module on “managing school finances”.
Guidance is also contained in Chapter 8 of ‘Every School a Good School – The Governor’s Role’, which is published on my Department’s website. This explains how schools are funded and sets out the main responsibilities of the Board of Governors and the Principal in relation to the management of school finances.
The Educational television website – http://www.esags.tv/ - also hosts a short programme on school finances.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204669%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=275619","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=275619"}},{"id":"275373","reference":"AQW 4592/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-04","answerBy":"2016-10-19","answered":"2016-10-18","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 to detail the outputs and outcomes achieved by the Maximising Access to Services, Grants and Benefits in Rural Areas project, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The Maximising Access to Services, Grants and Benefits in Rural Areas (MARA) Project achieved 17,824 individual household visits between April 2011 and September 2016. More details on these outputs and the outcomes achieved, from the 46,205 referrals generated from these visits, are provided by constituency below.\n\nSUMMARY OF OUTCOMES FROM THE MARA PROJECT, 2011 – SEPTEMBER 2016\nConstituency\tAccessed Additional Grants Benefits or Services\tComplete. No Additional Grants Benefits or Services\tAdvised to ‘Make the Call’ to Improving Benefit Uptake\tSignposted\tPending\tOutstanding\tGrand Total\nBELFAST EAST\t3\t4\t1\t1\t\t1\t10\nBELFAST NORTH\t1\t2\t\t\t\t\t3\nEAST ANTRIM\t560\t1291\t107\t29\t71\t27\t2085\nEAST LONDONDERRY\t1111\t1760\t104\t37\t115\t65\t3192\nFERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE\t2481\t2831\t151\t36\t101\t142\t5742\nFOYLE\t95\t200\t2\t2\t9\t2\t310\nLAGAN VALLEY\t1356\t1375\t70\t26\t49\t57\t2933\nMID ULSTER\t1501\t2489\t115\t39\t109\t60\t4313\nNEWRY AND ARMAGH\t1211\t1866\t156\t34\t119\t18\t3404\nNORTH ANTRIM\t1366\t2287\t241\t49\t90\t24\t4057\nNORTH DOWN\t66\t81\t6\t5\t4\t\t162\nSOUTH ANTRIM\t709\t1409\t102\t34\t118\t39\t2411\nSOUTH DOWN\t2357\t3690\t199\t55\t192\t87\t6580\nSTRANGFORD\t1793\t2118\t224\t48\t163\t53\t4399\nUPPER BANN\t572\t1099\t92\t24\t71\t30\t1888\nWEST TYRONE\t2003\t1939\t192\t61\t204\t185\t4584\nNot Assigned\t55\t61\t8\t1\t3\t4\t132\nGrand Total\t17240\t24502\t1770\t481\t1418\t794\t46205\nOUTCOMES FROM THE MARA PROJECT, 2011 – SEPTEMBER 2016 – BY CONSTITUENCY\nConstituency\tAccessed Additional Grants Benefits or Services\tComplete, No Additional Grants Benefits or Services\tAdvised to ‘Make the Call’ to Improving Benefit Uptake\tSignposted\tPending\tOutstanding\tGrand Total\n\nBELFAST EAST\t3\t4\t1\t1\t\t1\t10\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t\t\t1\t1\t\t\t2\nHome Safety Check\t1\t\t\t\t\t1\t2\nLocal Services\t\t2\t\t\t\t\t2\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t1\t1\t\t\t\t\t2\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t\t1\t\t\t\t\t1\nSmartpass\t1\t\t\t\t\t\t1\n\nBELFAST NORTH\t1\t2\t\t\t\t\t3\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t\t1\t\t\t\t\t1\nHome Safety Check\t1\t\t\t\t\t\t1\nLocal Services\t\t1\t\t\t\t\t1\n\nEAST ANTRIM\t560\t1291\t107\t29\t71\t27\t2085\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t32\t327\t107\t29\t33\t\t528\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t6\t75\t\t\t38\t7\t126\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t48\t126\t\t\t\t\t174\nHome Safety Check\t259\t139\t\t\t\t14\t412\nLocal Services\t80\t269\t\t\t\t\t349\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t31\t69\t\t\t\t1\t101\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t32\t163\t\t\t\t1\t196\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t33\t91\t\t\t\t\t124\nSmartpass\t29\t7\t\t\t\t4\t40\nSocial Services\t10\t25\t\t\t\t\t35\n\nEAST LONDONDERRY\t1111\t1760\t104\t37\t115\t65\t3192\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t31\t567\t104\t37\t41\t\t780\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t25\t112\t\t\t74\t24\t235\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t81\t160\t\t\t\t\t241\nFlexicare\t37\t70\t\t\t\t\t107\nHome Safety Check\t478\t108\t\t\t\t19\t605\nLocal Services\t211\t288\t\t\t\t\t499\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t27\t122\t\t\t\t9\t158\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t49\t136\t\t\t\t7\t192\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t110\t147\t\t\t\t1\t258\nSmartpass\t51\t13\t\t\t\t5\t69\nSocial Services\t11\t37\t\t\t\t\t48\n\nFERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE\t2481\t2831\t151\t36\t101\t142\t5742\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t49\t761\t151\t36\t65\t1\t1063\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t27\t250\t\t\t36\t25\t338\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t167\t348\t\t\t\t\t515\nFlexicare\t65\t45\t\t\t\t\t110\nHome Safety Check\t1091\t197\t\t\t\t12\t1300\nLocal Services\t574\t448\t\t\t\t3\t1025\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t37\t143\t\t\t\t51\t231\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t151\t210\t\t\t\t46\t407\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t272\t196\t\t\t\t1\t469\nSmartpass\t42\t16\t\t\t\t3\t61\nSocial Services\t6\t217\t\t\t\t\t223\n\nFOYLE\t95\t200\t2\t2\t9\t2\t310\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t2\t42\t2\t2\t1\t\t49\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t9\t20\t\t\t8\t\t37\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t11\t14\t\t\t\t\t25\nFlexicare\t13\t6\t\t\t\t\t19\nHome Safety Check\t42\t16\t\t\t\t\t58\nLocal Services\t12\t37\t\t\t\t\t49\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t\t20\t\t\t\t1\t21\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t\t18\t\t\t\t\t18\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t3\t18\t\t\t\t\t21\nSmartpass\t2\t\t\t\t\t1\t3\nSocial Services\t1\t9\t\t\t\t\t10\n\nLAGAN VALLEY\t1356\t1375\t70\t26\t49\t57\t2933\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t28\t282\t70\t26\t22\t\t428\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t39\t216\t\t\t27\t22\t304\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t86\t141\t\t\t\t\t227\nHome Safety Check\t647\t147\t\t\t\t10\t804\nLocal Services\t14\t249\t\t\t\t\t263\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t74\t94\t\t\t\t14\t182\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t216\t93\t\t\t\t2\t311\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t180\t126\t\t\t\t7\t313\nSmartpass\t71\t10\t\t\t\t2\t83\nSocial Services\t1\t17\t\t\t\t\t18\n\nMID ULSTER\t1501\t2489\t115\t39\t109\t60\t4313\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t46\t680\t115\t39\t28\t\t908\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t69\t186\t\t\t81\t27\t363\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t162\t381\t\t\t\t\t543\nHome Safety Check\t729\t284\t\t\t\t21\t1034\nLocal Services\t77\t495\t\t\t\t\t572\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t56\t65\t\t\t\t2\t123\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t164\t182\t\t\t\t6\t352\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t70\t145\t\t\t\t\t215\nSmartpass\t114\t9\t\t\t\t4\t127\nSocial Services\t14\t62\t\t\t\t\t76\n\nNEWRY AND ARMAGH\t1211\t1866\t156\t34\t119\t18\t3404\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t42\t563\t156\t34\t53\t\t848\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t51\t243\t\t\t66\t9\t369\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t122\t269\t\t\t\t\t391\nHome Safety Check\t686\t157\t\t\t\t\t843\nLocal Services\t51\t230\t\t\t\t\t281\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t52\t101\t\t\t\t6\t159\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t60\t160\t\t\t\t1\t221\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t104\t94\t\t\t\t2\t200\nSmartpass\t36\t13\t\t\t\t\t49\nSocial Services\t7\t36\t\t\t\t\t43\n\nNORTH ANTRIM\t1366\t2287\t241\t49\t90\t24\t4057\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t45\t733\t241\t49\t42\t\t1110\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t21\t160\t\t\t48\t14\t243\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t112\t232\t\t\t\t\t344\nHome Safety Check\t610\t141\t\t\t\t7\t758\nLocal Services\t169\t445\t\t\t\t1\t615\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t60\t182\t\t\t\t\t242\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t99\t191\t\t\t\t1\t291\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t130\t144\t\t\t\t\t274\nSmartpass\t99\t11\t\t\t\t1\t111\nSocial Services\t21\t48\t\t\t\t\t69\n\nNORTH DOWN\t66\t81\t6\t5\t4\t\t162\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t3\t29\t6\t5\t3\t\t46\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t\t6\t\t\t1\t\t7\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t5\t14\t\t\t\t\t19\nHome Safety Check\t35\t3\t\t\t\t\t38\nLocal Services\t10\t5\t\t\t\t\t15\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t\t1\t\t\t\t\t1\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t8\t5\t\t\t\t\t13\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t2\t13\t\t\t\t\t15\nSmartpass\t3\t1\t\t\t\t\t4\nSocial Services\t\t4\t\t\t\t\t4\n\nSOUTH ANTRIM\t709\t1409\t102\t34\t118\t39\t2411\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t30\t337\t102\t34\t41\t\t544\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t23\t147\t\t\t77\t11\t258\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t36\t121\t\t\t\t\t157\nHome Safety Check\t374\t187\t\t\t\t8\t569\nLocal Services\t92\t245\t\t\t\t1\t338\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t30\t81\t\t\t\t9\t120\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t55\t167\t\t\t\t1\t223\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t29\t84\t\t\t\t\t113\nSmartpass\t35\t8\t\t\t\t9\t52\nSocial Services\t5\t32\t\t\t\t\t37\n\nSOUTH DOWN\t2357\t3690\t199\t55\t192\t87\t6580\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t69\t945\t199\t55\t85\t1\t1354\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t89\t481\t\t\t107\t30\t707\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t274\t504\t\t\t\t\t778\nHome Safety Check\t1049\t280\t\t\t\t15\t1344\nLocal Services\t288\t611\t\t\t\t\t899\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t82\t203\t\t\t\t31\t316\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t200\t250\t\t\t\t\t450\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t194\t344\t\t\t\t3\t541\nSmartpass\t103\t31\t\t\t\t7\t141\nSocial Services\t9\t41\t\t\t\t\t50\n\nSTRANGFORD\t1793\t2118\t224\t48\t163\t53\t4399\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t57\t612\t224\t48\t80\t2\t1023\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t65\t239\t\t\t83\t20\t407\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t152\t298\t\t\t\t\t450\nHome Safety Check\t705\t101\t\t\t\t20\t826\nLocal Services\t290\t342\t\t\t\t\t632\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t58\t107\t\t\t\t9\t174\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t250\t91\t\t\t\t\t341\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t151\t277\t\t\t\t\t428\nSmartpass\t55\t20\t\t\t\t2\t77\nSocial Services\t10\t31\t\t\t\t\t41\n\nUPPER BANN\t572\t1099\t92\t24\t71\t30\t1888\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t15\t300\t92\t24\t42\t1\t474\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t12\t141\t\t\t29\t7\t189\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t52\t136\t\t\t\t\t188\nHome Safety Check\t306\t89\t\t\t\t1\t396\nLocal Services\t60\t185\t\t\t\t\t245\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t27\t50\t\t\t\t14\t91\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t39\t86\t\t\t\t1\t126\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t38\t97\t\t\t\t4\t139\nSmartpass\t22\t7\t\t\t\t2\t31\nSocial Services\t1\t8\t\t\t\t\t9\n\nWEST TYRONE\t2003\t1939\t192\t61\t204\t185\t4584\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t36\t563\t192\t61\t61\t\t913\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t54\t144\t\t\t143\t51\t392\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t120\t253\t\t\t\t\t373\nFlexicare\t124\t127\t\t\t\t\t251\nHome Safety Check\t913\t109\t\t\t\t89\t1111\nLocal Services\t348\t142\t\t\t\t5\t495\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t12\t90\t\t\t\t16\t118\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t77\t220\t\t\t\t18\t315\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t178\t203\t\t\t\t1\t382\nSmartpass\t127\t11\t\t\t\t5\t143\nSocial Services\t14\t77\t\t\t\t\t91\n\nNot Assigned\t55\t61\t8\t1\t3\t4\t132\nBenefit Entitlement Check\t2\t18\t8\t1\t\t\t29\nBoiler Replacement Scheme\t1\t4\t\t\t3\t2\t10\nEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\t7\t10\t\t\t\t\t17\nFlexicare\t1\t\t\t\t\t\t1\nHome Safety Check\t26\t8\t\t\t\t\t34\nLocal Services\t6\t7\t\t\t\t\t13\nNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\t\t3\t\t\t\t2\t5\nOccupational Therapy Assessment\t8\t6\t\t\t\t\t14\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\t2\t4\t\t\t\t\t6\nSmartpass\t2\t\t\t\t\t\t2\nSocial Services\t\t1\t\t\t\t\t1\n\nGrand Total\t17240\t24502\t1770\t481\t1418\t794\t46205","answerHtml":"The Maximising Access to Services, Grants and Benefits in Rural Areas (MARA) Project achieved 17,824 individual household visits between April 2011 and September 2016. More details on these outputs and the outcomes achieved, from the 46,205 referrals generated from these visits, are provided by constituency below.
| SUMMARY OF OUTCOMES FROM THE MARA PROJECT, 2011 – SEPTEMBER 2016 | |||||||
| Constituency | Accessed Additional Grants Benefits or Services | Complete. No Additional Grants Benefits or Services | Advised to ‘Make the Call’ to Improving Benefit Uptake | Signposted | Pending | Outstanding | Grand Total |
| BELFAST EAST | 3 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 10 | |
| BELFAST NORTH | 1 | 2 | 3 | ||||
| EAST ANTRIM | 560 | 1291 | 107 | 29 | 71 | 27 | 2085 |
| EAST LONDONDERRY | 1111 | 1760 | 104 | 37 | 115 | 65 | 3192 |
| FERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE | 2481 | 2831 | 151 | 36 | 101 | 142 | 5742 |
| FOYLE | 95 | 200 | 2 | 2 | 9 | 2 | 310 |
| LAGAN VALLEY | 1356 | 1375 | 70 | 26 | 49 | 57 | 2933 |
| MID ULSTER | 1501 | 2489 | 115 | 39 | 109 | 60 | 4313 |
| NEWRY AND ARMAGH | 1211 | 1866 | 156 | 34 | 119 | 18 | 3404 |
| NORTH ANTRIM | 1366 | 2287 | 241 | 49 | 90 | 24 | 4057 |
| NORTH DOWN | 66 | 81 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 162 | |
| SOUTH ANTRIM | 709 | 1409 | 102 | 34 | 118 | 39 | 2411 |
| SOUTH DOWN | 2357 | 3690 | 199 | 55 | 192 | 87 | 6580 |
| STRANGFORD | 1793 | 2118 | 224 | 48 | 163 | 53 | 4399 |
| UPPER BANN | 572 | 1099 | 92 | 24 | 71 | 30 | 1888 |
| WEST TYRONE | 2003 | 1939 | 192 | 61 | 204 | 185 | 4584 |
| Not Assigned | 55 | 61 | 8 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 132 |
| Grand Total | 17240 | 24502 | 1770 | 481 | 1418 | 794 | 46205 |
| OUTCOMES FROM THE MARA PROJECT, 2011 – SEPTEMBER 2016 – BY CONSTITUENCY | |||||||
| Constituency | Accessed Additional Grants Benefits or Services | Complete, No Additional Grants Benefits or Services | Advised to ‘Make the Call’ to Improving Benefit Uptake | Signposted | Pending | Outstanding | Grand Total |
| BELFAST EAST | 3 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 10 | |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 1 | 1 | 2 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 1 | 1 | 2 | ||||
| Local Services | 2 | 2 | |||||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 1 | 1 | 2 | ||||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 1 | 1 | |||||
| Smartpass | 1 | 1 | |||||
| BELFAST NORTH | 1 | 2 | 3 | ||||
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 1 | 1 | |||||
| Home Safety Check | 1 | 1 | |||||
| Local Services | 1 | 1 | |||||
| EAST ANTRIM | 560 | 1291 | 107 | 29 | 71 | 27 | 2085 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 32 | 327 | 107 | 29 | 33 | 528 | |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 6 | 75 | 38 | 7 | 126 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 48 | 126 | 174 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 259 | 139 | 14 | 412 | |||
| Local Services | 80 | 269 | 349 | ||||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 31 | 69 | 1 | 101 | |||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 32 | 163 | 1 | 196 | |||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 33 | 91 | 124 | ||||
| Smartpass | 29 | 7 | 4 | 40 | |||
| Social Services | 10 | 25 | 35 | ||||
| EAST LONDONDERRY | 1111 | 1760 | 104 | 37 | 115 | 65 | 3192 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 31 | 567 | 104 | 37 | 41 | 780 | |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 25 | 112 | 74 | 24 | 235 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 81 | 160 | 241 | ||||
| Flexicare | 37 | 70 | 107 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 478 | 108 | 19 | 605 | |||
| Local Services | 211 | 288 | 499 | ||||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 27 | 122 | 9 | 158 | |||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 49 | 136 | 7 | 192 | |||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 110 | 147 | 1 | 258 | |||
| Smartpass | 51 | 13 | 5 | 69 | |||
| Social Services | 11 | 37 | 48 | ||||
| FERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE | 2481 | 2831 | 151 | 36 | 101 | 142 | 5742 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 49 | 761 | 151 | 36 | 65 | 1 | 1063 |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 27 | 250 | 36 | 25 | 338 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 167 | 348 | 515 | ||||
| Flexicare | 65 | 45 | 110 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 1091 | 197 | 12 | 1300 | |||
| Local Services | 574 | 448 | 3 | 1025 | |||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 37 | 143 | 51 | 231 | |||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 151 | 210 | 46 | 407 | |||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 272 | 196 | 1 | 469 | |||
| Smartpass | 42 | 16 | 3 | 61 | |||
| Social Services | 6 | 217 | 223 | ||||
| FOYLE | 95 | 200 | 2 | 2 | 9 | 2 | 310 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 2 | 42 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 49 | |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 9 | 20 | 8 | 37 | |||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 11 | 14 | 25 | ||||
| Flexicare | 13 | 6 | 19 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 42 | 16 | 58 | ||||
| Local Services | 12 | 37 | 49 | ||||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 20 | 1 | 21 | ||||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 18 | 18 | |||||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 3 | 18 | 21 | ||||
| Smartpass | 2 | 1 | 3 | ||||
| Social Services | 1 | 9 | 10 | ||||
| LAGAN VALLEY | 1356 | 1375 | 70 | 26 | 49 | 57 | 2933 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 28 | 282 | 70 | 26 | 22 | 428 | |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 39 | 216 | 27 | 22 | 304 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 86 | 141 | 227 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 647 | 147 | 10 | 804 | |||
| Local Services | 14 | 249 | 263 | ||||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 74 | 94 | 14 | 182 | |||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 216 | 93 | 2 | 311 | |||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 180 | 126 | 7 | 313 | |||
| Smartpass | 71 | 10 | 2 | 83 | |||
| Social Services | 1 | 17 | 18 | ||||
| MID ULSTER | 1501 | 2489 | 115 | 39 | 109 | 60 | 4313 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 46 | 680 | 115 | 39 | 28 | 908 | |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 69 | 186 | 81 | 27 | 363 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 162 | 381 | 543 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 729 | 284 | 21 | 1034 | |||
| Local Services | 77 | 495 | 572 | ||||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 56 | 65 | 2 | 123 | |||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 164 | 182 | 6 | 352 | |||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 70 | 145 | 215 | ||||
| Smartpass | 114 | 9 | 4 | 127 | |||
| Social Services | 14 | 62 | 76 | ||||
| NEWRY AND ARMAGH | 1211 | 1866 | 156 | 34 | 119 | 18 | 3404 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 42 | 563 | 156 | 34 | 53 | 848 | |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 51 | 243 | 66 | 9 | 369 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 122 | 269 | 391 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 686 | 157 | 843 | ||||
| Local Services | 51 | 230 | 281 | ||||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 52 | 101 | 6 | 159 | |||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 60 | 160 | 1 | 221 | |||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 104 | 94 | 2 | 200 | |||
| Smartpass | 36 | 13 | 49 | ||||
| Social Services | 7 | 36 | 43 | ||||
| NORTH ANTRIM | 1366 | 2287 | 241 | 49 | 90 | 24 | 4057 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 45 | 733 | 241 | 49 | 42 | 1110 | |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 21 | 160 | 48 | 14 | 243 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 112 | 232 | 344 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 610 | 141 | 7 | 758 | |||
| Local Services | 169 | 445 | 1 | 615 | |||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 60 | 182 | 242 | ||||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 99 | 191 | 1 | 291 | |||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 130 | 144 | 274 | ||||
| Smartpass | 99 | 11 | 1 | 111 | |||
| Social Services | 21 | 48 | 69 | ||||
| NORTH DOWN | 66 | 81 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 162 | |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 3 | 29 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 46 | |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 6 | 1 | 7 | ||||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 5 | 14 | 19 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 35 | 3 | 38 | ||||
| Local Services | 10 | 5 | 15 | ||||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 1 | 1 | |||||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 8 | 5 | 13 | ||||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 2 | 13 | 15 | ||||
| Smartpass | 3 | 1 | 4 | ||||
| Social Services | 4 | 4 | |||||
| SOUTH ANTRIM | 709 | 1409 | 102 | 34 | 118 | 39 | 2411 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 30 | 337 | 102 | 34 | 41 | 544 | |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 23 | 147 | 77 | 11 | 258 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 36 | 121 | 157 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 374 | 187 | 8 | 569 | |||
| Local Services | 92 | 245 | 1 | 338 | |||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 30 | 81 | 9 | 120 | |||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 55 | 167 | 1 | 223 | |||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 29 | 84 | 113 | ||||
| Smartpass | 35 | 8 | 9 | 52 | |||
| Social Services | 5 | 32 | 37 | ||||
| SOUTH DOWN | 2357 | 3690 | 199 | 55 | 192 | 87 | 6580 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 69 | 945 | 199 | 55 | 85 | 1 | 1354 |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 89 | 481 | 107 | 30 | 707 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 274 | 504 | 778 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 1049 | 280 | 15 | 1344 | |||
| Local Services | 288 | 611 | 899 | ||||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 82 | 203 | 31 | 316 | |||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 200 | 250 | 450 | ||||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 194 | 344 | 3 | 541 | |||
| Smartpass | 103 | 31 | 7 | 141 | |||
| Social Services | 9 | 41 | 50 | ||||
| STRANGFORD | 1793 | 2118 | 224 | 48 | 163 | 53 | 4399 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 57 | 612 | 224 | 48 | 80 | 2 | 1023 |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 65 | 239 | 83 | 20 | 407 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 152 | 298 | 450 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 705 | 101 | 20 | 826 | |||
| Local Services | 290 | 342 | 632 | ||||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 58 | 107 | 9 | 174 | |||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 250 | 91 | 341 | ||||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 151 | 277 | 428 | ||||
| Smartpass | 55 | 20 | 2 | 77 | |||
| Social Services | 10 | 31 | 41 | ||||
| UPPER BANN | 572 | 1099 | 92 | 24 | 71 | 30 | 1888 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 15 | 300 | 92 | 24 | 42 | 1 | 474 |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 12 | 141 | 29 | 7 | 189 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 52 | 136 | 188 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 306 | 89 | 1 | 396 | |||
| Local Services | 60 | 185 | 245 | ||||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 27 | 50 | 14 | 91 | |||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 39 | 86 | 1 | 126 | |||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 38 | 97 | 4 | 139 | |||
| Smartpass | 22 | 7 | 2 | 31 | |||
| Social Services | 1 | 8 | 9 | ||||
| WEST TYRONE | 2003 | 1939 | 192 | 61 | 204 | 185 | 4584 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 36 | 563 | 192 | 61 | 61 | 913 | |
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 54 | 144 | 143 | 51 | 392 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 120 | 253 | 373 | ||||
| Flexicare | 124 | 127 | 251 | ||||
| Home Safety Check | 913 | 109 | 89 | 1111 | |||
| Local Services | 348 | 142 | 5 | 495 | |||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 12 | 90 | 16 | 118 | |||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 77 | 220 | 18 | 315 | |||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 178 | 203 | 1 | 382 | |||
| Smartpass | 127 | 11 | 5 | 143 | |||
| Social Services | 14 | 77 | 91 | ||||
| Not Assigned | 55 | 61 | 8 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 132 |
| Benefit Entitlement Check | 2 | 18 | 8 | 1 | 29 | ||
| Boiler Replacement Scheme | 1 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 10 | ||
| Energy Saving Homes Scheme | 7 | 10 | 17 | ||||
| Flexicare | 1 | 1 | |||||
| Home Safety Check | 26 | 8 | 34 | ||||
| Local Services | 6 | 7 | 13 | ||||
| NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | 3 | 2 | 5 | ||||
| Occupational Therapy Assessment | 8 | 6 | 14 | ||||
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | 2 | 4 | 6 | ||||
| Smartpass | 2 | 2 | |||||
| Social Services | 1 | 1 | |||||
| Grand Total | 17240 | 24502 | 1770 | 481 | 1418 | 794 | 46205 |
The aim of the Maximising Access to Services, Grants and Benefits in Rural Areas (MARA) Project was “to improve the health and well being of rural dwellers in Northern Ireland by increasing access to services, grants and benefits by facilitating a co-ordinated service to support rural dwellers living in or at risk of poverty and social exclusion”. The MARA Project proactively targeted the most vulnerable households in identified rural communities using a community development approach. The project was subject to continuous review and evaluation which assisted on-going refinement and learning to maximise its impact.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204591%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=275372","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=275372"}},{"id":"275371","reference":"AQW 4590/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-04","answerBy":"2016-10-19","answered":"2016-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when a resuscitation manager will be recruited to ensure a co-ordinated approach to resuscitation.","answerText":"The Ambulance Service anticipate that the recruitment of a regional Community Resuscitation Co-ordinator will commence later this month, subject to the outcome of ongoing discussions with Trade Union representatives regarding job evaluation.","answerHtml":"The Ambulance Service anticipate that the recruitment of a regional Community Resuscitation Co-ordinator will commence later this month, subject to the outcome of ongoing discussions with Trade Union representatives regarding job evaluation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204590%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=275371","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=275371"}},{"id":"275339","reference":"AQW 4558/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-04","answerBy":"2016-10-19","answered":"2016-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail each (i) primary school; (ii) post-primary school that has a deficit; and (iii) to detail each deficit at the end of each financial year (a) 2010/2011; (b) 2011/2012; (c) 2012/2013; (d) 2013/2014; and (e) 2014/2015.","answerText":"I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.\n\nThe information provided is in respect of Controlled/Maintained schools only. Similar data is not available for Voluntary Grammar (VG) and Grant-Maintained Integrated (GMI) Schools, for which my Department is the Funding Authority. VG and GMI schools are not reported on in the same way as each other (the same accounting policies are not used by all) or in the same way as Controlled/Maintained schools for which the Education Authority (EA) (formerly Education and Library Boards) are the Funding Authority.","answerHtml":"I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.
The information provided is in respect of Controlled/Maintained schools only. Similar data is not available for Voluntary Grammar (VG) and Grant-Maintained Integrated (GMI) Schools, for which my Department is the Funding Authority. VG and GMI schools are not reported on in the same way as each other (the same accounting policies are not used by all) or in the same way as Controlled/Maintained schools for which the Education Authority (EA) (formerly Education and Library Boards) are the Funding Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204558%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=275339","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=275339"}},{"id":"275338","reference":"AQW 4557/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-04","answerBy":"2016-10-19","answered":"2016-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education , pursuant AQW 3449/16-21, to detail how many staff in his Department and the Education Authority have completed (i) Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness; (ii) Disability Awareness for Frontline Staff; and (iii) Diversity Now.","answerText":"Completion figures for Department of Education staff are as follows:-\n\nAutism Spectrum Disorder Awareness – None\n\nDisability Awareness for Frontline Staff – None\n\nDiversity Now – 577 staff have completed this e-learning course since July 2015.\n\nThe e-learning modules referred to in the answer to AQW 3449/16-21are not available to Education Authority (EA) staff.\n\nFace to face training on Autism Spectrum Disorder (including autism and Asperger’s Syndrome) was delivered to 4,741school staff across the EA between April 2014 and March 2016. Also 880 teachers and youth workers were trained in the areas of disability and diversity as part of the EA’s Community Relations, Equality & Diversity in Education Policy (CRED) training.","answerHtml":"Completion figures for Department of Education staff are as follows:-
Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness – None
Disability Awareness for Frontline Staff – None
Diversity Now – 577 staff have completed this e-learning course since July 2015.
The e-learning modules referred to in the answer to AQW 3449/16-21are not available to Education Authority (EA) staff.
Face to face training on Autism Spectrum Disorder (including autism and Asperger’s Syndrome) was delivered to 4,741school staff across the EA between April 2014 and March 2016. Also 880 teachers and youth workers were trained in the areas of disability and diversity as part of the EA’s Community Relations, Equality & Diversity in Education Policy (CRED) training.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204557%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=275338","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=275338"}},{"id":"275077","reference":"AQW 4435/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-03","answerBy":"2016-10-18","answered":"2016-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what his Department is doing to ease access to the Northern Ireland Office's Fresh Start capital money .","answerText":"The first tranche of projects funded from the Fresh Start Agreement (FSA) for shared and integrated education, was announced in March 16 and included the acceleration of 6 shared and integrated projects already underway. An additional 17 shared and integrated new school proposals were also announced to advance to planning, including the second tranche of the Executive’s shared campus programme. All of the new projects are in the early stages of planning.\n\nI will continue to engage with the Northern Ireland Office regarding future tranches of projects to advance in planning under the fund to ensure that the allocation of FSA spend has a maximum impact on shared and integrated education here.","answerHtml":"The first tranche of projects funded from the Fresh Start Agreement (FSA) for shared and integrated education, was announced in March 16 and included the acceleration of 6 shared and integrated projects already underway. An additional 17 shared and integrated new school proposals were also announced to advance to planning, including the second tranche of the Executive’s shared campus programme. All of the new projects are in the early stages of planning.
I will continue to engage with the Northern Ireland Office regarding future tranches of projects to advance in planning under the fund to ensure that the allocation of FSA spend has a maximum impact on shared and integrated education here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204435%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=275077","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=275077"}},{"id":"275076","reference":"AQW 4434/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-03","answerBy":"2016-10-18","answered":"2016-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail each school's maintenance costs, broken down by (i) primary; and (ii) post-primary school.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for maintenance in controlled, voluntary maintained and Irish medium primary and post primary schools and has provided details of maintenance expenditure in individual schools for the 2015/16 financial year. I have arranged for this information to be placed in the Assembly Library.\n\nThe EA’s total maintenance expenditure in primary schools in 2015/16 was £8,561,798; while £5,160,282 was spent in post-primary schools.\n\nVoluntary Grammar Schools and Grant Maintained Integrated Schools are responsible for their own maintenance, with the cost being met from the school’s own recurrent budget. The Department of Education does not therefore hold information on maintenance expenditure in these schools.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for maintenance in controlled, voluntary maintained and Irish medium primary and post primary schools and has provided details of maintenance expenditure in individual schools for the 2015/16 financial year. I have arranged for this information to be placed in the Assembly Library.
The EA’s total maintenance expenditure in primary schools in 2015/16 was £8,561,798; while £5,160,282 was spent in post-primary schools.
Voluntary Grammar Schools and Grant Maintained Integrated Schools are responsible for their own maintenance, with the cost being met from the school’s own recurrent budget. The Department of Education does not therefore hold information on maintenance expenditure in these schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204434%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=275076","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=275076"}},{"id":"275075","reference":"AQW 4433/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-10-03","answerBy":"2016-10-07","answered":"2016-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether (i) he can give an undertaking that his Department will investigate Killyleagh Integrated Primary's maintenance and repair issues given the recent collapse of a classroom ceiling and; (ii) refurbishment will be prioritised to ensure pupil and staff safety.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for Killyleagh Integrated Primary School. In relation to the recent incident, the EA has advised that the ceiling has been repaired, as has the pipework that was leaking. Pipework within the proximity has been checked and replaced as was deemed necessary. The area is now safe.\n\nThe EA will have the opportunity to submit Killyleagh Integrated Primary School for consideration in any future capital announcement.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for Killyleagh Integrated Primary School. In relation to the recent incident, the EA has advised that the ceiling has been repaired, as has the pipework that was leaking. Pipework within the proximity has been checked and replaced as was deemed necessary. The area is now safe.
The EA will have the opportunity to submit Killyleagh Integrated Primary School for consideration in any future capital announcement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204433%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=275075","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=275075"}},{"id":"274706","reference":"AQW 4267/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-29","answerBy":"2016-10-14","answered":"2016-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what measures he is putting in place to make sure people will not face additional barriers when renewing or applying for a Blue Badge when the system transfers to the Department for Transport's Blue Badge Improvement Service.","answerText":"Currently, existing badge holders are issued with reminders four – six weeks before their badges are due to expire. People can renew or apply for a Blue Badge by:\n\nConnecting to the NI Direct website and apply using the newly launched online facility.\n\nConnecting to the NI Direct website to download and print out an application form.\n\nPhoning NI Direct to request an application form which will be sent to the requestor.\n\nWriting or emailing the Blue Badge Unit in Enniskillen to request an application form which will be forwarded to them.\n\nThe application process will not change when the system transfers to the Department for Transport's Blue Badge Improvement Service.","answerHtml":"Currently, existing badge holders are issued with reminders four – six weeks before their badges are due to expire. People can renew or apply for a Blue Badge by:
Connecting to the NI Direct website and apply using the newly launched online facility.
Connecting to the NI Direct website to download and print out an application form.
Phoning NI Direct to request an application form which will be sent to the requestor.
Writing or emailing the Blue Badge Unit in Enniskillen to request an application form which will be forwarded to them.
The application process will not change when the system transfers to the Department for Transport's Blue Badge Improvement Service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204267%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=274706","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=274706"}},{"id":"274705","reference":"AQW 4266/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-29","answerBy":"2016-10-14","answered":"2016-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) to outline the process for renewing or applying for a new Blue Badge with the Department for Transport's Blue Badge Improvement Service; and (ii) whether a paper application option still be available for those who are unable to engage with the online process.","answerText":"Currently, existing badge holders are issued with reminders four to six weeks before their badges are due to expire. People can renew or apply for a Blue Badge by:\n\nConnecting to the NI Direct website and apply using the newly launched online facility.\n\nConnecting to the NI Direct website to download and print out an application form.\n\nPhoning NI Direct to request an application form which will be sent to the requestor.\n\nWriting or emailing the Blue Badge Unit in Enniskillen to request an application form which will be forwarded to them.\n\nThe application process will not change when the system transfers to the Department for Transport's Blue Badge Improvement Service.\n\nThe paper application option will remain available for those who are unable to engage with the online process.","answerHtml":"Currently, existing badge holders are issued with reminders four to six weeks before their badges are due to expire. People can renew or apply for a Blue Badge by:
Connecting to the NI Direct website and apply using the newly launched online facility.
Connecting to the NI Direct website to download and print out an application form.
Phoning NI Direct to request an application form which will be sent to the requestor.
Writing or emailing the Blue Badge Unit in Enniskillen to request an application form which will be forwarded to them.
The application process will not change when the system transfers to the Department for Transport's Blue Badge Improvement Service.
The paper application option will remain available for those who are unable to engage with the online process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204266%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=274705","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=274705"}},{"id":"274449","reference":"AQW 4174/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-28","answerBy":"2016-10-13","answered":"2016-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he will be engaging with education stakeholders on the recommendations of the report on the Review of Integrated Education.","answerText":"My officials have received a draft of the Review Panel’s report and are currently undertaking a factual check. I look forward to considering the final report once this work has been completed.\n\nThe Panel has already undertaken considerable engagement with stakeholders including issuing a Call for Evidence in March this year. I will want to give careful consideration to the report’s findings before deciding what further engagement might be required.","answerHtml":"My officials have received a draft of the Review Panel’s report and are currently undertaking a factual check. I look forward to considering the final report once this work has been completed.
The Panel has already undertaken considerable engagement with stakeholders including issuing a Call for Evidence in March this year. I will want to give careful consideration to the report’s findings before deciding what further engagement might be required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204174%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=274449","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=274449"}},{"id":"274448","reference":"AQW 4173/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-28","answerBy":"2016-10-13","answered":"2016-10-12","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 Priory Integrated College's new build.","answerText":"I visited Priory Integrated College on 15 September and discussed the position on the new build that will be funded under the Fresh Start Agreement with the school Principal, the Vice Principal and the Chair of the Board of Governors.\n\nThe project is in the very early stages of planning. The Department and the Education Authority are working collaboratively to reach a decision on school enrolment numbers. Once that process is complete, correspondence will issue in respect of setting up the first Project Board meeting.","answerHtml":"I visited Priory Integrated College on 15 September and discussed the position on the new build that will be funded under the Fresh Start Agreement with the school Principal, the Vice Principal and the Chair of the Board of Governors.
The project is in the very early stages of planning. The Department and the Education Authority are working collaboratively to reach a decision on school enrolment numbers. Once that process is complete, correspondence will issue in respect of setting up the first Project Board meeting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204173%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=274448","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=274448"}},{"id":"274447","reference":"AQW 4172/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-28","answerBy":"2016-10-13","answered":"2016-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline why his Department and the Education Authority have not been able to resolve a landlord responsibility dispute regarding Blackwater Integrated College.","answerText":"The Department of Education (DE) is aware that capital investment is required to improve the condition of the current school buildings occupied by Blackwater Integrated College. However DE is not in a position to invest this level of capital as the school is not vested in the schools estate because it has not yet achieved capital viability. In the interim, urgent health and safety works have been undertaken.\n\nDiscussions between DE and the Education Authority are ongoing in relation to the school.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education (DE) is aware that capital investment is required to improve the condition of the current school buildings occupied by Blackwater Integrated College. However DE is not in a position to invest this level of capital as the school is not vested in the schools estate because it has not yet achieved capital viability. In the interim, urgent health and safety works have been undertaken.
Discussions between DE and the Education Authority are ongoing in relation to the school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204172%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=274447","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=274447"}},{"id":"274446","reference":"AQW 4171/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-28","answerBy":"2016-10-13","answered":"2016-10-12","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 what his Department is doing in relation to the Public Accounts Committee recommendations in the Sustainability of Schools report.","answerText":"The Department’s response to the recommendations contained within the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report, in the form of a Memorandum of Reply, was laid in the Assembly on 10 June 2016.\n\nThe majority of the recommendations included in the PAC report correspond with those in the Northern Ireland Audit Office report on Sustainability of Schools. Work on implementing recommendations is being taken forward by a number of Project Teams involving relevant Department of Education (DE) staff and, as necessary, Education Authority (EA) and Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) representatives.\n\nProgress is monitored by a Programme Board that meets monthly, with quarterly progress reports provided to the DE Board.","answerHtml":"The Department’s response to the recommendations contained within the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report, in the form of a Memorandum of Reply, was laid in the Assembly on 10 June 2016.
The majority of the recommendations included in the PAC report correspond with those in the Northern Ireland Audit Office report on Sustainability of Schools. Work on implementing recommendations is being taken forward by a number of Project Teams involving relevant Department of Education (DE) staff and, as necessary, Education Authority (EA) and Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) representatives.
Progress is monitored by a Programme Board that meets monthly, with quarterly progress reports provided to the DE Board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204171%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=274446","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=274446"}},{"id":"274445","reference":"AQW 4170/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-28","answerBy":"2016-10-13","answered":"2016-10-12","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 Independent Review Panel report on the Review of Integrated Education.","answerText":"My officials have received a draft of the Review Panel’s report and are currently undertaking a factual check. I look forward to considering the final report once this work has been completed.\n\nThe Panel has already undertaken considerable engagement with stakeholders including issuing a Call for Evidence in March this year. I will want to give careful consideration to the report’s findings before deciding what further engagement might be required.","answerHtml":"My officials have received a draft of the Review Panel’s report and are currently undertaking a factual check. I look forward to considering the final report once this work has been completed.
The Panel has already undertaken considerable engagement with stakeholders including issuing a Call for Evidence in March this year. I will want to give careful consideration to the report’s findings before deciding what further engagement might be required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204170%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=274445","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=274445"}},{"id":"273236","reference":"AQW 3611/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-21","answerBy":"2016-10-06","answered":"2016-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline why he has not sought to increase penalties for people who text while driving in line with the recent changes in England and Wales.","answerText":"I am very sensitive to the damage that can be caused by those who use a mobile telephone while driving.\n\nI have followed with interest the media coverage of possible increases in fines and penalties for mobile phone offences in Britain. I am also aware that, following a recent Department for Transport consultation exercise on this issue, the Transport Minister intends to formally publish his response later this year.\n\nAt a meeting of the Road Safety Forum on 27 September I took the opportunity to discuss and reflect on this issue with key road safety stakeholders. Members demonstrated a clear and collective desire to tackle the use of mobile phones while driving. I have asked my officials to review our current legislation in this area, taking account of corresponding provision and proposals in both Britain and the south of Ireland. I will then decide what further actions should be taken to tackle those drivers who continue to offend.\n\nLegal sanctions are useful and may improve the future driving behaviours of those drivers who are caught. However, they have less impact on the total population of drivers – many of whom will not be caught. The police cannot be at every corner and cannot be in every vehicle.\n\nPublic attitudes therefore need to change. I want to make the use of a mobile phone while driving as socially unacceptable as not wearing a seatbelt and as shameful as drink driving. Each of us must take responsibility for our own actions as road users. It is for this reason that road safety campaigns seek to highlight and address poor attitudes and behaviours.\n\nMy Department has been very active in seeking to get this message across – using television adverts, social media campaigns and the Community Engagement toolkit. Each of these has received positive reactions.\n\nIn summary, I believe that driver education, together with an effective legislative deterrent, represents the best approach to tackling this problem. In the coming months, I will take decisions on the detail of this approach.","answerHtml":"I am very sensitive to the damage that can be caused by those who use a mobile telephone while driving.
I have followed with interest the media coverage of possible increases in fines and penalties for mobile phone offences in Britain. I am also aware that, following a recent Department for Transport consultation exercise on this issue, the Transport Minister intends to formally publish his response later this year.
At a meeting of the Road Safety Forum on 27 September I took the opportunity to discuss and reflect on this issue with key road safety stakeholders. Members demonstrated a clear and collective desire to tackle the use of mobile phones while driving. I have asked my officials to review our current legislation in this area, taking account of corresponding provision and proposals in both Britain and the south of Ireland. I will then decide what further actions should be taken to tackle those drivers who continue to offend.
Legal sanctions are useful and may improve the future driving behaviours of those drivers who are caught. However, they have less impact on the total population of drivers – many of whom will not be caught. The police cannot be at every corner and cannot be in every vehicle.
Public attitudes therefore need to change. I want to make the use of a mobile phone while driving as socially unacceptable as not wearing a seatbelt and as shameful as drink driving. Each of us must take responsibility for our own actions as road users. It is for this reason that road safety campaigns seek to highlight and address poor attitudes and behaviours.
My Department has been very active in seeking to get this message across – using television adverts, social media campaigns and the Community Engagement toolkit. Each of these has received positive reactions.
In summary, I believe that driver education, together with an effective legislative deterrent, represents the best approach to tackling this problem. In the coming months, I will take decisions on the detail of this approach.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203611%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=273236","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=273236"}},{"id":"272903","reference":"AQW 3451/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-20","answerBy":"2016-10-05","answered":"2016-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the provisions in place when emergency transport has to be used to minimise the distress to pupils with learning disabilities.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has confirmed that it operates a pool of spare vehicles that can be used in the event of a breakdown and alternative drivers are available should a regular driver be unavailable.\n\nAn assurance is also required from private contractors, as part of the tendering process, to confirm that suitable contingency arrangements are in place to deal with breakdowns etc. The nature of these contingency arrangements can vary but typically most private operators will also have spare vehicles and drivers to call on at short notice.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has confirmed that it operates a pool of spare vehicles that can be used in the event of a breakdown and alternative drivers are available should a regular driver be unavailable.
An assurance is also required from private contractors, as part of the tendering process, to confirm that suitable contingency arrangements are in place to deal with breakdowns etc. The nature of these contingency arrangements can vary but typically most private operators will also have spare vehicles and drivers to call on at short notice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203451%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=272903","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=272903"}},{"id":"272902","reference":"AQW 3450/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-20","answerBy":"2016-10-05","answered":"2016-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many private contractors used for home to school transport provision have been removed from the Department's database.","answerText":"The Department of Education does not hold a database of private contractors used for Home to School Transport. All contracts for this purpose are held by the Education Authority.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education does not hold a database of private contractors used for Home to School Transport. All contracts for this purpose are held by the Education Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203450%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=272902","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=272902"}},{"id":"272901","reference":"AQW 3449/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-20","answerBy":"2016-10-05","answered":"2016-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department provides training for departmental staff on autism and learning disability awareness.","answerText":"Departmental staff have access to three e-learning courses provided on-line by the NICS Centre of Applied Learning (CAL), as follows:\n\nAutism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Awareness;\n\nDisability Awareness for Frontline Staff;\n\nDiversity Now.","answerHtml":"Departmental staff have access to three e-learning courses provided on-line by the NICS Centre of Applied Learning (CAL), as follows:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Awareness;
Disability Awareness for Frontline Staff;
Diversity Now.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203449%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=272901","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=272901"}},{"id":"272743","reference":"AQW 3386/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-19","answerBy":"2016-09-23","answered":"2016-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"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 the rationale for not using the existing provision through their allocation of Special Advisers to accommodate the press secretary role.","answerText":"This is a newly created post, jointly appointed.\n\nThe new press secretary is a person providing specialist support to us jointly, hence the use of the prerogative order made by us acting jointly under section 23(3) of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.\n\nSpecial Advisers are individually appointed by their respective Ministers.","answerHtml":"This is a newly created post, jointly appointed.
The new press secretary is a person providing specialist support to us jointly, hence the use of the prerogative order made by us acting jointly under section 23(3) of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.
Special Advisers are individually appointed by their respective Ministers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203386%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=272743","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=272743"}},{"id":"272724","reference":"AQW 3367/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-19","answerBy":"2016-10-04","answered":"2016-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many people registered with learning difficulties in each Health and Social Care Trust have been allocated a social worker since 2011.","answerText":"Information on people with learning difficulties who have been allocated a social worker is not available. However, information on adults in the learning disability client group who commenced receipt of social work or social care services is available and can be found in Table 1 below.\n\nTable 1. Adults in the learning disability client group who commenced receipt of social work or social care services (Year ending 31 March 2011/12 – 2015/16)\n\nHSC Trust\tNumber of Adults\nBelfast\t798\nNorthern\t473\nSouth Eastern\t251\nSouthern\t277\nWestern\t453\n\nSource: HSC Board","answerHtml":"Information on people with learning difficulties who have been allocated a social worker is not available. However, information on adults in the learning disability client group who commenced receipt of social work or social care services is available and can be found in Table 1 below.
Table 1. Adults in the learning disability client group who commenced receipt of social work or social care services (Year ending 31 March 2011/12 – 2015/16)
| HSC Trust | Number of Adults |
| Belfast | 798 |
| Northern | 473 |
| South Eastern | 251 |
| Southern | 277 |
| Western | 453 |
Source: HSC Board
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203367%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=272724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=272724"}},{"id":"272723","reference":"AQW 3366/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-19","answerBy":"2016-10-04","answered":"2016-10-25","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 mechanism his Department has to ensure the Personal Training Plan payment follows the student and not the training provider.","answerText":"Contracted training suppliers are required to develop an individualised Personal Training Plan for each participant on my Department’s ApprenticeshipsNI and Training for Success programmes.\n\nTo allow time for individual assessment, training suppliers must complete a Personal Training Plan within 12 weeks of the participant’s training start date. Payment is then made directly to the training supplier.\n\nIn the case of Training for Success, if a participant moves to a new training supplier then the new training supplier may be paid for the completion of a new Personal Training Plan. This payment recognises the need for a thorough individual re-assessment to be completed - with the potential for the young person to change their area of vocational training.\n\nIn the case of the ApprenticeshipsNI programme, only one Personal Training Plan payment is made. In the event of a participant changing training supplier the original Personal Training Plan and all related records, outlining progress and achievement to date, are transferred to the new supplier. In contrast to Training for Success, as the apprentice is employed, there should be no change to the vocational area of study.","answerHtml":"Contracted training suppliers are required to develop an individualised Personal Training Plan for each participant on my Department’s ApprenticeshipsNI and Training for Success programmes.
To allow time for individual assessment, training suppliers must complete a Personal Training Plan within 12 weeks of the participant’s training start date. Payment is then made directly to the training supplier.
In the case of Training for Success, if a participant moves to a new training supplier then the new training supplier may be paid for the completion of a new Personal Training Plan. This payment recognises the need for a thorough individual re-assessment to be completed - with the potential for the young person to change their area of vocational training.
In the case of the ApprenticeshipsNI programme, only one Personal Training Plan payment is made. In the event of a participant changing training supplier the original Personal Training Plan and all related records, outlining progress and achievement to date, are transferred to the new supplier. In contrast to Training for Success, as the apprentice is employed, there should be no change to the vocational area of study.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203366%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=272723","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=272723"}},{"id":"272716","reference":"AQW 3359/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-19","answerBy":"2016-10-04","answered":"2016-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure when will the commencement order for Review of Old Mineral Permissions be issued.","answerText":"The provisions for the review of old mineral permissions (ROMPs) in the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 were carried forward from the Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991 and have not been commenced.\n\nAt this point in time I have made no decision on the commencement of ROMPs provisions. I have instructed my officials to undertake a priority review of the issues surrounding old mineral permissions and will decide the way forward following consideration of this work.","answerHtml":"The provisions for the review of old mineral permissions (ROMPs) in the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 were carried forward from the Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991 and have not been commenced.
At this point in time I have made no decision on the commencement of ROMPs provisions. I have instructed my officials to undertake a priority review of the issues surrounding old mineral permissions and will decide the way forward following consideration of this work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203359%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=272716","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=272716"}},{"id":"271943","reference":"AQW 2967/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-13","answerBy":"2016-09-28","answered":"2016-09-27","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 what discussions they have had with counterparts in England, Scotland and Wales on the increase in the number of refugees and racial tensions.","answerText":"We are pleased to be playing our part in assisting with the humanitarian crisis in Syria by participating in the Vulnerable Persons Relocation (VPR) scheme. The initial reception and settlement of the refugees who have come to live among us has gone well and we have been heartened by the positive reaction to their arrival and that they have been made to feel welcome.\n\nThe impact of the refugee crisis was considered last year in the 25th summit meeting of the British Irish Council. During this meeting we discussed the efforts across the eight BIC Member Administrations and internationally to help refugees, and the value of joint working and cooperation on the domestic resettlement of refugees.\n\nOur officials hold monthly discussions with colleagues from the Home Office in London, and the Scottish and Welsh Governments in relation to the Vulnerable Persons Relocation scheme. They are also in frequent bilateral contacts, including with officials in Dublin. These discussions provide a valuable opportunity to share best practice and raise any common issues or areas of concern.\n\nWe are pleased that recent statistics from the PSNI have shown a reduction in both racist incidents and racist crime. While there have been a few isolated incidents, the majority of people have been very welcoming of refugees. However, there is no room for complacency.\n\nThe Racial Equality Strategy contains the commitment that we will work with the Department of Justice to develop our approach to tackling race hate crime and we are working to progress the implementation of this Strategy. It is our view that there is absolutely no place for racism or intolerance of any kind in our society.","answerHtml":"We are pleased to be playing our part in assisting with the humanitarian crisis in Syria by participating in the Vulnerable Persons Relocation (VPR) scheme. The initial reception and settlement of the refugees who have come to live among us has gone well and we have been heartened by the positive reaction to their arrival and that they have been made to feel welcome.
The impact of the refugee crisis was considered last year in the 25th summit meeting of the British Irish Council. During this meeting we discussed the efforts across the eight BIC Member Administrations and internationally to help refugees, and the value of joint working and cooperation on the domestic resettlement of refugees.
Our officials hold monthly discussions with colleagues from the Home Office in London, and the Scottish and Welsh Governments in relation to the Vulnerable Persons Relocation scheme. They are also in frequent bilateral contacts, including with officials in Dublin. These discussions provide a valuable opportunity to share best practice and raise any common issues or areas of concern.
We are pleased that recent statistics from the PSNI have shown a reduction in both racist incidents and racist crime. While there have been a few isolated incidents, the majority of people have been very welcoming of refugees. However, there is no room for complacency.
The Racial Equality Strategy contains the commitment that we will work with the Department of Justice to develop our approach to tackling race hate crime and we are working to progress the implementation of this Strategy. It is our view that there is absolutely no place for racism or intolerance of any kind in our society.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202967%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=271943","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=271943"}},{"id":"271859","reference":"AQW 2883/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-13","answerBy":"2016-09-28","answered":"2016-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to outline the criteria used to decide areas of priority for the Affordable Warmth Scheme; and (ii) whether he will review these criteria.","answerText":"The Affordable Warmth Scheme is an area based targeted scheme aimed at owner occupiers and those who rent from a private sector landlord. In order to qualify for the scheme the household must have a total gross annual income of less than £20,000.\n\nA tailor-made targeting tool was developed and tested for identifying households in severe fuel poverty. It aimed to find small areas of Northern Ireland (around 150 households in size) where most households are likely to be in fuel poverty, and a sizeable proportion of these are likely to be in extreme fuel poverty. It uses more than a dozen databases to calculate likelihoods in these small areas, and these include:\n\nhousing quality data;\n\nestimates of income and benefit dependency;\n\nprevailing oil and gas prices;\n\nprevailing temperatures;\n\ndemographic vulnerability profiles.\n\nSubsequent validation of the accuracy of this targeting tool was based on detailed survey data from more than 2,100 homes across all of Northern Ireland. The validation assessment indicated that:\n\nthe tool was able to identify small areas in which 89% of all households were in fuel poverty;\n\n38% were in extreme fuel poverty.\n\nThe data indicates that the accuracy of targeting resources towards those most in need has been considerably enhanced by the application of this approach to targeting those in fuel poverty by my Department.\n\nFollowing successful pilot testing in 2012 and 2013 the targeting tool was used to identify addresses in each council area most likely to be at risk of fuel poverty and ranked these in order of severity. These ranked lists were provided to councils and they have been engaged in a programme of visiting and surveying the households to assess eligibility and work with colleagues in the Housing Executive to improve the energy efficiency of the homes.\n\nThe targeting tool proved to be very effective in identifying households most at risk of fuel poverty during the pilot phases of Affordable Warmth and evidence from the first full year of operation of the scheme confirms that the targeting tool is effective in identifying homes in real need of help.\n\nThe Affordable Warmth Scheme completed its first full year of operation in March 2016 and is currently being reviewed. This review will include an examination of the accuracy of the targeting tool used to select the target areas.","answerHtml":"The Affordable Warmth Scheme is an area based targeted scheme aimed at owner occupiers and those who rent from a private sector landlord. In order to qualify for the scheme the household must have a total gross annual income of less than £20,000.
A tailor-made targeting tool was developed and tested for identifying households in severe fuel poverty. It aimed to find small areas of Northern Ireland (around 150 households in size) where most households are likely to be in fuel poverty, and a sizeable proportion of these are likely to be in extreme fuel poverty. It uses more than a dozen databases to calculate likelihoods in these small areas, and these include:
housing quality data;
estimates of income and benefit dependency;
prevailing oil and gas prices;
prevailing temperatures;
demographic vulnerability profiles.
Subsequent validation of the accuracy of this targeting tool was based on detailed survey data from more than 2,100 homes across all of Northern Ireland. The validation assessment indicated that:
the tool was able to identify small areas in which 89% of all households were in fuel poverty;
38% were in extreme fuel poverty.
The data indicates that the accuracy of targeting resources towards those most in need has been considerably enhanced by the application of this approach to targeting those in fuel poverty by my Department.
Following successful pilot testing in 2012 and 2013 the targeting tool was used to identify addresses in each council area most likely to be at risk of fuel poverty and ranked these in order of severity. These ranked lists were provided to councils and they have been engaged in a programme of visiting and surveying the households to assess eligibility and work with colleagues in the Housing Executive to improve the energy efficiency of the homes.
The targeting tool proved to be very effective in identifying households most at risk of fuel poverty during the pilot phases of Affordable Warmth and evidence from the first full year of operation of the scheme confirms that the targeting tool is effective in identifying homes in real need of help.
The Affordable Warmth Scheme completed its first full year of operation in March 2016 and is currently being reviewed. This review will include an examination of the accuracy of the targeting tool used to select the target areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202883%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=271859","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=271859"}},{"id":"271858","reference":"AQW 2882/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-13","answerBy":"2016-09-28","answered":"2016-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he plans a strategic review of the renewal process for blue badges.","answerText":"I am not planning a strategic review of the renewal process for Blue Badges at present.\n\nThe current Disabled Person Badge Scheme, Blue Badge renewal criterion, is based on the previous and present welfare benefits systems, which require assessments to be undertaken regularly, irrespective of the nature of the disability. Additionally, the Blue Badge scheme in the north is aligned to the scheme in Britain that requires all Blue Badges to be renewed every three years. As a result Item 5 of The Disabled Persons (Badges for Motor Vehicles), Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1993 made under the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons (Northern Ireland) Act 1978 states that “a disabled person’s badge shall be issued for a period of three years from and including the date on which it is issued.”\n\nThere are benefits of having a system in place that reviews all applicants’ requirements on a cyclical basis. These benefits include:\n\nHaving badges in circulation that have been subject to regular assessment;\n\nRemoving badges that have become no longer valid from circulation (thus reducing fraudulent use of the badge) where the applicant has moved out of the country or is deceased; and\n\nMaintenance of an up to date record on all Blue Badge holders.\n\nI should also like to point out, that following a consultation in 2012 on Blue Badges the following Blue Badge processing needs were identified:\n\nnew application form\n\nnew processing system\n\nprovision of a full on-line application facility\n\nlink to the GB’s Blue Badge Improvement Service (BBIS)\n\nThe current position regarding meeting these needs is as follows:\n\nThe new Blue Badge Processing system has been developed and is in use since July 2016.\n\nAn online application facility has been developed and went live on 23 September 2016.\n\nOfficials are working with The Department for Transport (GB) to resolve the contract issues and allow NI access to the BBIS service in April 2017.","answerHtml":"I am not planning a strategic review of the renewal process for Blue Badges at present.
The current Disabled Person Badge Scheme, Blue Badge renewal criterion, is based on the previous and present welfare benefits systems, which require assessments to be undertaken regularly, irrespective of the nature of the disability. Additionally, the Blue Badge scheme in the north is aligned to the scheme in Britain that requires all Blue Badges to be renewed every three years. As a result Item 5 of The Disabled Persons (Badges for Motor Vehicles), Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1993 made under the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons (Northern Ireland) Act 1978 states that “a disabled person’s badge shall be issued for a period of three years from and including the date on which it is issued.”
There are benefits of having a system in place that reviews all applicants’ requirements on a cyclical basis. These benefits include:
Having badges in circulation that have been subject to regular assessment;
Removing badges that have become no longer valid from circulation (thus reducing fraudulent use of the badge) where the applicant has moved out of the country or is deceased; and
Maintenance of an up to date record on all Blue Badge holders.
I should also like to point out, that following a consultation in 2012 on Blue Badges the following Blue Badge processing needs were identified:
new application form
new processing system
provision of a full on-line application facility
link to the GB’s Blue Badge Improvement Service (BBIS)
The current position regarding meeting these needs is as follows:
The new Blue Badge Processing system has been developed and is in use since July 2016.
An online application facility has been developed and went live on 23 September 2016.
Officials are working with The Department for Transport (GB) to resolve the contract issues and allow NI access to the BBIS service in April 2017.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202882%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=271858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=271858"}},{"id":"271770","reference":"AQW 2856/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-12","answerBy":"2016-09-27","answered":"2016-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to detail how many contracts for Home to School Transport from 2014 were awarded to private companies; (ii) whether his Department incurred additional costs as a result.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that the number of contracts for Home to School Transport awarded in the 2014/15 and 2015/16 financial years was as follows:\n\n2014/15 - 306\n\n2015/16 - 184\n\nThe EA has confirmed that no additional costs were incurred as a result of using private companies.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that the number of contracts for Home to School Transport awarded in the 2014/15 and 2015/16 financial years was as follows:
2014/15 - 306
2015/16 - 184
The EA has confirmed that no additional costs were incurred as a result of using private companies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202856%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=271770","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=271770"}},{"id":"271769","reference":"AQW 2855/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-12","answerBy":"2016-09-27","answered":"2016-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how his Department is monitoring the negative effects of body shaming in relation to physical education uniforms.","answerText":"Departmental guidance on uniforms can be found on the Department’s website at:\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/school-uniform-0","answerHtml":"Departmental guidance on uniforms can be found on the Department’s website at:
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/school-uniform-0
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202855%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=271769","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=271769"}},{"id":"271768","reference":"AQW 2854/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-12","answerBy":"2016-09-27","answered":"2016-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) how many contracts his Department has for Home to School transport; and (ii) as of 5 September 2016, how many of these are still in existence.","answerText":"The Department of Education does not hold any contracts for Home to School transport. These are negotiated directly between the Education Authority and various operators.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education does not hold any contracts for Home to School transport. These are negotiated directly between the Education Authority and various operators.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202854%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=271768","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=271768"}},{"id":"273042","reference":"AQO 274/16-21","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-09-08","answerBy":"2016-09-20","answered":"2016-09-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what discussions she has had with the United Kingdom Government concerning funding for legacy issues.","answerText":"The Stormont House Agreement was an agreement made at the end of 2014 between the Northern Ireland Executive and the British and Irish governments. Under that Agreement, the United Kingdom government committed to providing the Northern Ireland Executive with £150 million for legacy.\n\nSince the agreement was made discussions have continued between the Northern Ireland Executive and the United Kingdom Government to ensure that the outstanding legacy issues are resolved and that the bodies proposed to deal with the past are established. I have also met the Secretary of State to discuss legacy matters. Funding has naturally formed an important part of all of those discussions.\n\nMy department has never been resourced to deal with the legacy of the past. Having met a number of victims’ families, I am conscious of the impact of further delay in legacy investigations and legacy inquests. My concern is that, in the absence of the necessary additional funding, it will not be possible to complete the investigation of outstanding Troubles-related deaths in a reasonable period of a time and that we will fail the families of victims.","answerHtml":"The Stormont House Agreement was an agreement made at the end of 2014 between the Northern Ireland Executive and the British and Irish governments. Under that Agreement, the United Kingdom government committed to providing the Northern Ireland Executive with £150 million for legacy.
Since the agreement was made discussions have continued between the Northern Ireland Executive and the United Kingdom Government to ensure that the outstanding legacy issues are resolved and that the bodies proposed to deal with the past are established. I have also met the Secretary of State to discuss legacy matters. Funding has naturally formed an important part of all of those discussions.
My department has never been resourced to deal with the legacy of the past. Having met a number of victims’ families, I am conscious of the impact of further delay in legacy investigations and legacy inquests. My concern is that, in the absence of the necessary additional funding, it will not be possible to complete the investigation of outstanding Troubles-related deaths in a reasonable period of a time and that we will fail the families of victims.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20274%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=273042","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=273042"}},{"id":"268100","reference":"AQW 1554/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-21","answerBy":"2016-07-06","answered":"2016-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether a Jointly Managed School can operate over two separate sites.","answerText":"A Jointly Managed School can operate over two sites.","answerHtml":"A Jointly Managed School can operate over two sites.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201554%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=268100","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=268100"}},{"id":"268099","reference":"AQW 1553/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-21","answerBy":"2016-07-06","answered":"2016-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether legislative change is required for Jointly Managed Schools.","answerText":"A legislative change is not required","answerHtml":"A legislative change is not required
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201553%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=268099","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=268099"}},{"id":"268098","reference":"AQW 1552/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-21","answerBy":"2016-07-06","answered":"2016-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether there is a minimum pupil threshold for a Jointly Managed School.","answerText":"In a case of an amalgamation between a former controlled and maintained school (s), the new school will not be subject to a minimum enrolment criteria for receipt of recurrent funding. (Para 4.7 DE Circular 2015/15 refers).","answerHtml":"In a case of an amalgamation between a former controlled and maintained school (s), the new school will not be subject to a minimum enrolment criteria for receipt of recurrent funding. (Para 4.7 DE Circular 2015/15 refers).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201552%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=268098","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=268098"}},{"id":"268097","reference":"AQW 1551/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-21","answerBy":"2016-07-06","answered":"2016-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what is the religious balance required for a Jointly Managed School.","answerText":"There is no minimum religious balance requirement for a jointly managed school - this is considered on a case by case basis. In most cases a jointly managed school will be established as a result of the amalgamation of a controlled and a Catholic maintained school and will be reflective of the religious breakdown of the constituent schools.","answerHtml":"There is no minimum religious balance requirement for a jointly managed school - this is considered on a case by case basis. In most cases a jointly managed school will be established as a result of the amalgamation of a controlled and a Catholic maintained school and will be reflective of the religious breakdown of the constituent schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201551%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=268097","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=268097"}},{"id":"268096","reference":"AQW 1550/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-21","answerBy":"2016-07-06","answered":"2016-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the difference between a Jointly Managed School and a Jointly Managed Church School.","answerText":"There is no material difference between a Jointly Managed School and a Jointly Managed Church School - the latter reflects that the Trustee representation is agreed by the Transferor churches and the Catholic Church and managed by a Board of Governors with balanced representation from both the main communities here. Whilst there is potential for other forms of a Jointly Managed School, the current provision relates only to what has been termed by stakeholders as a ‘jointly managed church school’. (DE Circular 2015/15 refers).","answerHtml":"There is no material difference between a Jointly Managed School and a Jointly Managed Church School - the latter reflects that the Trustee representation is agreed by the Transferor churches and the Catholic Church and managed by a Board of Governors with balanced representation from both the main communities here. Whilst there is potential for other forms of a Jointly Managed School, the current provision relates only to what has been termed by stakeholders as a ‘jointly managed church school’. (DE Circular 2015/15 refers).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201550%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=268096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=268096"}},{"id":"267729","reference":"AQW 1362/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-17","answerBy":"2016-07-04","answered":"2016-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on the Belfast Bike scheme; and (ii) whether there are plans to expand docking stations.","answerText":"The Department for Regional Development provided a £1 million capital grant to Belfast City Council in order to implement the Belfast Bike Share Scheme. The scheme is owned and operated by the City Council and it is responsible for the development and any proposed expansion of the scheme.\n\nThe scheme has been in operation since the end of April 2015. In the first year of operation there were almost 200,000 hires and an additional three docking stations were opened (one in Titanic Quarter and two at Queen’s University). A more detailed update on the scheme and plans for its expansion can be obtained from the Chief Executive at Belfast City Council.","answerHtml":"The Department for Regional Development provided a £1 million capital grant to Belfast City Council in order to implement the Belfast Bike Share Scheme. The scheme is owned and operated by the City Council and it is responsible for the development and any proposed expansion of the scheme.
The scheme has been in operation since the end of April 2015. In the first year of operation there were almost 200,000 hires and an additional three docking stations were opened (one in Titanic Quarter and two at Queen’s University). A more detailed update on the scheme and plans for its expansion can be obtained from the Chief Executive at Belfast City Council.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201362%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=267729","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=267729"}},{"id":"266731","reference":"AQW 979/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-10","answerBy":"2016-06-27","answered":"2016-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how much money was spent annually on rent, rates, repairs and maintenance for buildings and grounds for (i) Council for Catholic Maintained Schools; (ii) Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education; (iii) Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta; and the (iv) Controlled Sector Support Council, in each of the last three years for which figures are available.","answerText":"The Department has not incurred any expenditure to date in respect of rent, rates, repairs and maintenance for buildings and grounds for the Controlled Schools’ Support Council as it is not scheduled to come into operation until 1 September 2016.\n\nThe tables below set out the relevant detail on rent, rates, repairs and maintenance for buildings and grounds provided by the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS), the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education and Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta,\n\nTable A - Council for Catholic Maintained Schools\n\nYear\t2013/14\t2014/15\t2015/16\nRent\t£50,377\t£45,546\t£49,825\nRates\t£1,348\t£7,550\t£2,763\nRepairs and Maintenance\t£21,950\t£70,451\t£16,802\nTotals\t£73,675\t£123,547\t£69,390\n\nNote: The 2015-16 expenditure figures for CCMS are based on expenditure reported in CCMS’s 2015-16 Draft Resource Accounts. CCMS’s 2015-16 Resource Accounts are yet to be finalised, however it is anticipated there will be no significant change to the 2015-16 figures.\n\nTable B - The Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education\n\nYear\t2013/14\t2014/15\t2015/16\nRent\t£17,500\t£17,500\t£17,500\nRates\t£0\t£0\t£0\nRepairs and maintenance\t£4,126\t£2,528\t£2,170\nTotals\t£21,626\t£20,028\t£19,670\n\nTable C - Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta\n\nYear\t2013/14\t2014/15\t2015/16\nRent\t£36,643\t£35,983\t£37,230\nRates\t£0\t£0\t£0\nRepairs and maintenance\t£952\t£1542\t£546\nTotals\t£37,595\t£37,525\t£37,776","answerHtml":"The Department has not incurred any expenditure to date in respect of rent, rates, repairs and maintenance for buildings and grounds for the Controlled Schools’ Support Council as it is not scheduled to come into operation until 1 September 2016.
The tables below set out the relevant detail on rent, rates, repairs and maintenance for buildings and grounds provided by the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS), the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education and Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta,
Table A - Council for Catholic Maintained Schools
| Year | 2013/14 | 2014/15 | 2015/16 |
| Rent | £50,377 | £45,546 | £49,825 |
| Rates | £1,348 | £7,550 | £2,763 |
| Repairs and Maintenance | £21,950 | £70,451 | £16,802 |
| Totals | £73,675 | £123,547 | £69,390 |
Note: The 2015-16 expenditure figures for CCMS are based on expenditure reported in CCMS’s 2015-16 Draft Resource Accounts. CCMS’s 2015-16 Resource Accounts are yet to be finalised, however it is anticipated there will be no significant change to the 2015-16 figures.
Table B - The Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education
| Year | 2013/14 | 2014/15 | 2015/16 |
| Rent | £17,500 | £17,500 | £17,500 |
| Rates | £0 | £0 | £0 |
| Repairs and maintenance | £4,126 | £2,528 | £2,170 |
| Totals | £21,626 | £20,028 | £19,670 |
Table C - Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta
| Year | 2013/14 | 2014/15 | 2015/16 |
| Rent | £36,643 | £35,983 | £37,230 |
| Rates | £0 | £0 | £0 |
| Repairs and maintenance | £952 | £1542 | £546 |
| Totals | £37,595 | £37,525 | £37,776 |
The following primary and post primary schools closed in 2013-14 and 2014-15 and are expected to close in 2015/16:
2013/14
Maintained Primary
203-2510 Barrack Street Boys’ PS
503-1301 Clontifleece PS
203-6389 St Anne’s Girls’ PS
503-1213 St Clare’s Convent PS
503-1576 St Colman’s Abbey PS
Controlled Secondary
321-0233 Ballee Community High
121-0266 Orangefield High School
Controlled Special
231-0015 Belmont House School
231-6525 Foyle View School
2014/15
Controlled Primary
101-0269 Avoniel Primary School
461-0085 Down High School, Preparatory Department
Maintained Primary
203-2277 Craigbrack Primary School
503-2693 Crievagh Primary School
203-2631 Envagh Primary School
203-2265 St Anthony’s Primary School
203-2600 St Francis of Assisi Primary School
403-6081 St Luke’s Primary School
203-2687 St Macartan’s Primary School
403-6134 St Mark’s Primary School
Controlled Secondary
421-0086 Knockbreda High School
321-0200 Monkstown Community School
321-0279 Newtownabbey Community High School
421-0183 Newtownbreda High School
Controlled Grammar
341-0033 Coleraine High School
Maintained Secondary
223-0254 Immaculate Conception College
523-0160 St Brigid’s High School
523-0070 St Mary’s High School
523-0088 St Paul’s Junior High School
Voluntary Grammar
342-0032 Coleraine Academical Institution
542-0056 St Michael’s Grammar School
2015/16 (Expected)
Controlled Primary
301-0760 Mullaghdubh Primary School
Maintained Primary
303-3311 Glenravel Primary School
303-0625 St Mary’s Primary School, Glenravel
203-2712 Gortnagarn Primary School
304-0451 Kilcoan Primary School
203-2702 Evish Primary School
Controlled Grammar
241-0040 Collegiate Grammar School
461-0097 Glenlola Collegiate, Preparatory Department
Voluntary Grammar
242-0042 Portora Royal School
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20978%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266730","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266730"}},{"id":"266729","reference":"AQW 977/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-10","answerBy":"2016-06-27","answered":"2016-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what action his Department has taken following the recommendations contained in the Northern Ireland Audit Office report on the Sustainability of Schools.","answerText":"The NIAO report on the Sustainability of Schools was published on 30 June 2015 and included eight recommendations agreed by my Department.\n\nProject governance and management arrangements have been put in place to progress the implementation of the eight recommendations. Seven Project Teams involving relevant Department of Education (DE) staff, Education Authority (EA) and Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) representatives have been established.\n\nProgress is monitored by a Programme Board that meets monthly, with quarterly progress reports provided to the DE Board.","answerHtml":"The NIAO report on the Sustainability of Schools was published on 30 June 2015 and included eight recommendations agreed by my Department.
Project governance and management arrangements have been put in place to progress the implementation of the eight recommendations. Seven Project Teams involving relevant Department of Education (DE) staff, Education Authority (EA) and Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) representatives have been established.
Progress is monitored by a Programme Board that meets monthly, with quarterly progress reports provided to the DE Board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20977%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266729","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266729"}},{"id":"266728","reference":"AQW 976/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-10","answerBy":"2016-06-27","answered":"2016-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education which schools are currently in formal intervention.","answerText":"As at 13 June 2016 the following schools, for which inspection reports have been published, are receiving support to address areas for improvment.\n\nSchool\nBallymacward Primary School, Lisburn\nBallytober Primary School, Bushmills\nCrossroads Primary School, Kilrea\nCulmore Primary School, Londonderry\nFivemiletown College\nFleming Fulton Special School\nKillowen Primary School, Rostrevor\nLaurelhill Community College, Lisburn\nMovilla High School, Newtownards\nMullaghdubh Primary School\nPark School and Educational Resource Centre, Belfast\nRathore School, Newry\nSt Brigid’s Primary School, Altamuskin\nSt John the Baptist Primary School, Belfast\nSt Joseph’s Primary School, Bessbrook\nSt Joseph’s Primary School, Holland Drive, Belfast\nSt Malachy’s Primary School, Belfast\nSt Mary’s Primary School, Killyleagh\nSt Oliver Plunkett Primary School, Strathfoyle\nSt Tierney’s Primary School, Roslea\nTempo Primary School\nUpper Ballyboley Primary School, Ballyclare\nWellington College, Belfast\n\nA list of schools receiving support during the current school year is published on the Department of Education website and may be accessed via the following link:\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/de/Schools-in-the-formal-intervention-process-201516.pdf","answerHtml":"As at 13 June 2016 the following schools, for which inspection reports have been published, are receiving support to address areas for improvment.
| School |
| Ballymacward Primary School, Lisburn |
| Ballytober Primary School, Bushmills |
| Crossroads Primary School, Kilrea |
| Culmore Primary School, Londonderry |
| Fivemiletown College |
| Fleming Fulton Special School |
| Killowen Primary School, Rostrevor |
| Laurelhill Community College, Lisburn |
| Movilla High School, Newtownards |
| Mullaghdubh Primary School |
| Park School and Educational Resource Centre, Belfast |
| Rathore School, Newry |
| St Brigid’s Primary School, Altamuskin |
| St John the Baptist Primary School, Belfast |
| St Joseph’s Primary School, Bessbrook |
| St Joseph’s Primary School, Holland Drive, Belfast |
| St Malachy’s Primary School, Belfast |
| St Mary’s Primary School, Killyleagh |
| St Oliver Plunkett Primary School, Strathfoyle |
| St Tierney’s Primary School, Roslea |
| Tempo Primary School |
| Upper Ballyboley Primary School, Ballyclare |
| Wellington College, Belfast |
A list of schools receiving support during the current school year is published on the Department of Education website and may be accessed via the following link:
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/de/Schools-in-the-formal-intervention-process-201516.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20976%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266728","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266728"}},{"id":"266393","reference":"AQW 830/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-08","answerBy":"2016-06-23","answered":"2016-07-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, of the 26km of sea defences designated by the Drainage Council since its establishment in 1947, (i) how many individual sea defences were created; (ii) what type of defences were installed; (iii) what date work was completed; (iv) what was the cost of each defence created as a result of the designation determined.","answerText":"(i) How many individual sea defences were created;\n\nRivers Agency is responsible for 26km of sea defences comprising of 41 individual structures (including two tidal barriers.) The defences are located at the Foyle estuary, Belfast, Strangford and Carlingford Loughs.\n\n(ii) What type of defences were installed;\n\nThe majority of the sea defences maintained by the Rivers Agency are earth embankments with an armouring layer applied to the sea facing sloping surface. The function of the armouring layer is to reduce the erosive power of the waves. Some embankments can be cored with steel sheet piles and may be topped by a vertical or re-curved concrete wall to reduce wave overtopping.\n\nThe two tidal barriers are substantial concrete structures with control gates that curtail the passage of sea water into the Quoile estuary at time of high tides.\n\n(iii) What date work was completed;\n\nThe construction of the early sea defences commenced in the early 18th century, primarily to reclaim land. Throughout the nineteenth and twenty century major construction works have continued to improve both the degree of protection and their structural resilience. Recent major works included the 2005 upgrading of the Newtownard's Sea defences at a cost of £3.7m and the refurbishment of the Quoile tidal barrier in 2005 at £725k. Currently the Department is exploring options to upgrade the Newry coastal defences at Greenbank.\n\n(iv)What was the cost of each defence created as a result of the designation determined.\n\nGiven the time period that has elapsed since these defences were originally constructed it is not possible to estimate the actual cost of each defence created. However, the Modern (Gross) Replacement value for the sea defences that Rivers Agency maintains is some £46.4m.","answerHtml":"(i) How many individual sea defences were created;
Rivers Agency is responsible for 26km of sea defences comprising of 41 individual structures (including two tidal barriers.) The defences are located at the Foyle estuary, Belfast, Strangford and Carlingford Loughs.
(ii) What type of defences were installed;
The majority of the sea defences maintained by the Rivers Agency are earth embankments with an armouring layer applied to the sea facing sloping surface. The function of the armouring layer is to reduce the erosive power of the waves. Some embankments can be cored with steel sheet piles and may be topped by a vertical or re-curved concrete wall to reduce wave overtopping.
The two tidal barriers are substantial concrete structures with control gates that curtail the passage of sea water into the Quoile estuary at time of high tides.
(iii) What date work was completed;
The construction of the early sea defences commenced in the early 18th century, primarily to reclaim land. Throughout the nineteenth and twenty century major construction works have continued to improve both the degree of protection and their structural resilience. Recent major works included the 2005 upgrading of the Newtownard's Sea defences at a cost of £3.7m and the refurbishment of the Quoile tidal barrier in 2005 at £725k. Currently the Department is exploring options to upgrade the Newry coastal defences at Greenbank.
(iv)What was the cost of each defence created as a result of the designation determined.
Given the time period that has elapsed since these defences were originally constructed it is not possible to estimate the actual cost of each defence created. However, the Modern (Gross) Replacement value for the sea defences that Rivers Agency maintains is some £46.4m.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20830%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266393","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266393"}},{"id":"266392","reference":"AQW 829/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-08","answerBy":"2016-06-23","answered":"2016-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what actions his Department will take during 2016-17 to progress research into coastal management and defences; and to ensure that any research includes consultation with coastal erosion groups such as the Ards Peninsula Coastal Erosion Group.","answerText":"I am very aware of the issues relating to coastal erosion and coastal management, and my Department has some important roles to play in addressing these issues.\n\nI welcome the initiative taken by the former Minister for Regional Development last year in establishing a Coastal Management Forum, and I look forward to working with the Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to build on this. This Forum has brought together relevant organisations including local councils, the National Trust and Government agencies under the chairmanship of Ministers. An outcome from the Forum has been bids by some councils for funding to commission research into costal management issues. I understand that the National Trust is also seeking to commission some research. The Coastal Management Forum will seek to ensure that the outcome of any research will be shared with all relevant parties including local interest groups.\n\nMy Department is currently engaged with the Ards Peninsula Coastal Erosion Group (APCEG) and I commend the achievements of this group in highlighting the issues of coastal management. There is an important role to be played by community based groups in addressing coastal management issues and my Department will continue to engage with APCEG and any other like minded groups as appropriate.","answerHtml":"I am very aware of the issues relating to coastal erosion and coastal management, and my Department has some important roles to play in addressing these issues.
I welcome the initiative taken by the former Minister for Regional Development last year in establishing a Coastal Management Forum, and I look forward to working with the Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to build on this. This Forum has brought together relevant organisations including local councils, the National Trust and Government agencies under the chairmanship of Ministers. An outcome from the Forum has been bids by some councils for funding to commission research into costal management issues. I understand that the National Trust is also seeking to commission some research. The Coastal Management Forum will seek to ensure that the outcome of any research will be shared with all relevant parties including local interest groups.
My Department is currently engaged with the Ards Peninsula Coastal Erosion Group (APCEG) and I commend the achievements of this group in highlighting the issues of coastal management. There is an important role to be played by community based groups in addressing coastal management issues and my Department will continue to engage with APCEG and any other like minded groups as appropriate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20829%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266392","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266392"}},{"id":"266391","reference":"AQW 828/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-08","answerBy":"2016-06-23","answered":"2016-07-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to list the names of the 18 members of the Drainage Council and which body each member represents.","answerText":"The names, position and interests represented on the Drainage Council are as follows:\n\nName\tPosition\tInterest Represented\nMr Alan Strong\tChairperson\tDrainage Specialist\nCllr Brian Hanvey\tVice Chairperson\tLisburn and Castlereagh City Council\nMr Shaun Donnelly\tSecretary\tHead of Business Support Branch, Rivers Agency\nAlderman Samuel Cole\tMember\tCauseway Coast and Glens Borough Council\nCllr Graham Craig\tMember\tBelfast City Council\nCllr Jim Fletcher\tMember\tArds and North Down Borough Council\nCllr Beth Adger\tMember\tMid and East Antrim District Council\nCllr Bernice Swift\tMember\tFermanagh and Omagh District Council\nCllr Billy Webb\tMember\tAntrim and Newtownabbey District Council\nCllr Cadogan Enright\tMember\tNewry, Mourne and Down District Council\nMr Andrew Wilson\tMember\tAgriculture\nMr Brendan Kerr\tMember\tFisheries\nDr Bernie Lafferty\tMember\tTourism\nMr David Porter\tMember\tDfI Rivers Agency official\nMr Angus Kerr\tMember\tDfI Planning, Water and DVA","answerHtml":"The names, position and interests represented on the Drainage Council are as follows:
| Name | Position | Interest Represented |
| Mr Alan Strong | Chairperson | Drainage Specialist |
| Cllr Brian Hanvey | Vice Chairperson | Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council |
| Mr Shaun Donnelly | Secretary | Head of Business Support Branch, Rivers Agency |
| Alderman Samuel Cole | Member | Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council |
| Cllr Graham Craig | Member | Belfast City Council |
| Cllr Jim Fletcher | Member | Ards and North Down Borough Council |
| Cllr Beth Adger | Member | Mid and East Antrim District Council |
| Cllr Bernice Swift | Member | Fermanagh and Omagh District Council |
| Cllr Billy Webb | Member | Antrim and Newtownabbey District Council |
| Cllr Cadogan Enright | Member | Newry, Mourne and Down District Council |
| Mr Andrew Wilson | Member | Agriculture |
| Mr Brendan Kerr | Member | Fisheries |
| Dr Bernie Lafferty | Member | Tourism |
| Mr David Porter | Member | DfI Rivers Agency official |
| Mr Angus Kerr | Member | DfI Planning, Water and DVA |
To ask the Assembly Commission, in relation to the recent Independent Financial Review Panel determination, (i) why the decision was made not to permit Members’ staff to claim mileage for travel related to constituency business, given that the proposed job description provided by the Assembly Commission includes wording confirming certain grades of Members’ staff would be required to travel to meetings to represent the Member as part of constituency business; (ii)whether rural proofing was considered before the decision was taken; (iii) to share the rural proofing process and findings; and (iv) why Members' staff are not permitted out of pocket expenses for travel to constituency or Assembly related travel when Assembly secretariat staff are permitted mileage for travel to meetings outside Parliament Buildings.
(AQW 762/16-21)
The Assembly Commission is mindful of the statutory independence of the Independent Financial Review Panel when making a Determination under section 2 of the Assembly Members (Independent Financial Review and Standards) Act (Northern Ireland) 2011.
The Commission’s role in the administration of the system of financial support for Members means that it is required to understand and implement the precise provisions contained in any Determination issued by the Panel. In that regard, the Commission notes that the Panel made reference to the issue of staff travel costs at paragraph 83 of the Report which accompanied the Assembly Members (Salaries and Expenses) Determination (Northern Ireland) 2016. However, this reference was by way of summary of the previous system of financial support for Members. The Commission is not aware of any other reference to staff travel contained in the Report or in the Determination. Under earlier Determinations, a Member was able to avail of general office costs expenditure funding to reimburse the costs of staff travel within a constituency. The present Determination does not contain a provision of this nature and, hence, no payment for staff travel can be made. It is the Commission’s understanding that such costs could be borne by a Member from the annual constituency travel allowance that is made available in the Determination.
The Commission is unable to state why such a provision was not included in the recent Determination. The Commission is unaware of any consideration that the Panel may have made with regard to rural proofing and, hence, the results of a rural proofing process are not held by the Commission. The Member may wish to liaise directly with the Panel on these matters.
Staff employed by the Commission are employed on such terms and conditions as the Commission may determine. Staff employed by Members are engaged on such terms and conditions as may be prescribed by the Panel.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20762%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266219","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266219"}},{"id":"266216","reference":"AQW 759/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-07","answerBy":"2016-06-22","answered":"2016-06-23","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 , following the lift on the ban on trawlers in Strangford Lough, to detail the compensation provided for those put out of business by the ban; and whether a compensation scheme was created from European Fisheries Fund or local sources, as outlined by the then Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development on 5 February 2013.","answerText":"Following concerns about the impact of trawling and dredging on the horse Mussel (Modiolus modiolus) communities on the seabed of Strangford Lough, these fishing activities were prohibited in December 2003, and this prohibition remains in place. Fishermen were not put out of business by this action having the opportunity to continue trawling outside the Lough and to continue to fish within the Lough with static gear such as pots.\n\nA further fishery prohibition was introduced in January 2013 to create a non-disturbance zone consistent with the agreed objectives of the 2012 revised Modiolus Restoration Plan.\n\nFishing in Strangford was the subject of an adjournment debate on 5 February 2013, and Minister O’Neill discussed the possibility of a compensation scheme in the event of decommissioning, however since that time my Department has been working with Strangford fishermen on a fisheries management plan for the Lough and this included consideration of financial assistance under the European Fisheries Fund (EFF) to assist them to implement measures to ensure the sustainability of the fishery. To date this has resulted in a Pot Replacement Scheme funded by the EFF. Letters of Offer were issued to 10 fishermen who applied for funding in November 2015, totalling £46,116. At the closure of the scheme fishermen had submitted 6 claims amounting to £14,328, providing 420 lobster and 240 Nephrop pots. Fishery conservation measures adopted under the Fishery Management Plan in future, may also qualify for financial assistance under the new funding programme, the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund.","answerHtml":"Following concerns about the impact of trawling and dredging on the horse Mussel (Modiolus modiolus) communities on the seabed of Strangford Lough, these fishing activities were prohibited in December 2003, and this prohibition remains in place. Fishermen were not put out of business by this action having the opportunity to continue trawling outside the Lough and to continue to fish within the Lough with static gear such as pots.
A further fishery prohibition was introduced in January 2013 to create a non-disturbance zone consistent with the agreed objectives of the 2012 revised Modiolus Restoration Plan.
Fishing in Strangford was the subject of an adjournment debate on 5 February 2013, and Minister O’Neill discussed the possibility of a compensation scheme in the event of decommissioning, however since that time my Department has been working with Strangford fishermen on a fisheries management plan for the Lough and this included consideration of financial assistance under the European Fisheries Fund (EFF) to assist them to implement measures to ensure the sustainability of the fishery. To date this has resulted in a Pot Replacement Scheme funded by the EFF. Letters of Offer were issued to 10 fishermen who applied for funding in November 2015, totalling £46,116. At the closure of the scheme fishermen had submitted 6 claims amounting to £14,328, providing 420 lobster and 240 Nephrop pots. Fishery conservation measures adopted under the Fishery Management Plan in future, may also qualify for financial assistance under the new funding programme, the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20759%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266216","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266216"}},{"id":"266215","reference":"AQW 758/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-07","answerBy":"2016-06-22","answered":"2016-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities if he plans to extend emergency flood payments to businesses impacted by flooding, including coastal flooding, particularly where building/contents insurance can no longer provide cover.","answerText":"The current scheme of emergency financial assistance to district councils covers council costs incurred when responding to the needs of householders across Northern Ireland in the event of any flooding following Rainfall or Tidal Surge. In addition it also includes an immediate payment of £1,000 to householders as practical assistance; to those who have suffered severe inconvenience, to help make homes habitable as quickly as possible. It is not a compensation payment and is available to households with or without insurance.\n\nOn the 10 March 2016, the Executive agreed that a one-off extension to the existing Emergency Financial Assistance Scheme be established for non-domestic properties, including small businesses and farm businesses to cover the period 7 November 2015 until 31 January 2016. The estimated number of successful claimants is projected to be between 350 – 400.\n\nI do not intend, at this time, to seek any extension of the Scheme of Emergency Financial assistance beyond that which currently exists.","answerHtml":"The current scheme of emergency financial assistance to district councils covers council costs incurred when responding to the needs of householders across Northern Ireland in the event of any flooding following Rainfall or Tidal Surge. In addition it also includes an immediate payment of £1,000 to householders as practical assistance; to those who have suffered severe inconvenience, to help make homes habitable as quickly as possible. It is not a compensation payment and is available to households with or without insurance.
On the 10 March 2016, the Executive agreed that a one-off extension to the existing Emergency Financial Assistance Scheme be established for non-domestic properties, including small businesses and farm businesses to cover the period 7 November 2015 until 31 January 2016. The estimated number of successful claimants is projected to be between 350 – 400.
I do not intend, at this time, to seek any extension of the Scheme of Emergency Financial assistance beyond that which currently exists.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20758%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266215","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266215"}},{"id":"266214","reference":"AQW 757/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-07","answerBy":"2016-06-22","answered":"2016-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the integrated schools that received applications for more pupils than could be accommodated for the September intake in each year from 2006 until 2016; (ii) how many places were available per primary and post-primary school; (iii) how many first preference applications were received; (iv) how many children were not able to be accommodated per school; and (v) how many of those children were allocated schools outside the integrated sector.","answerText":"I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20757%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266214","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266214"}},{"id":"266054","reference":"AQW 674/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-06","answerBy":"2016-06-21","answered":"2016-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how much of the Rural Transport Fund grant has been allocated to each of the Rural Community Transport Partnerships for 2016-2017; and how much grant money has been allocated to Disability Action for the Disability Action Travel Scheme.","answerText":"My Department has allocated funding in 2016/17 of £2.43m to Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) to support Dial a Lift services to members living in rural areas that are unable to, or have difficulty accessing local basic services due to having no access to a car or public transport, with the main users of the service being older and disabled people.\n\nThe table below shows amount to each partnership:\n\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\tGrant Allocated\n£k\nCDM Transport\t443\nDown District Accessible Transport\t323\nEasilink Community Transport\t334\nFermanagh Community Transport\t350\nLagan Valley\t125\nNorth Coast Community Transport\t419\nSouth Antrim Community Transport\t128\nSouthern Area\t310\n\nDisability Action also received £2.3m for the Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS) which is a local urban transport service for people with disabilities or for those who find it difficult using mainstream public transport.","answerHtml":"My Department has allocated funding in 2016/17 of £2.43m to Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) to support Dial a Lift services to members living in rural areas that are unable to, or have difficulty accessing local basic services due to having no access to a car or public transport, with the main users of the service being older and disabled people.
The table below shows amount to each partnership:
| Rural Community Transport Partnerships | Grant Allocated £k |
| CDM Transport | 443 |
| Down District Accessible Transport | 323 |
| Easilink Community Transport | 334 |
| Fermanagh Community Transport | 350 |
| Lagan Valley | 125 |
| North Coast Community Transport | 419 |
| South Antrim Community Transport | 128 |
| Southern Area | 310 |
Disability Action also received £2.3m for the Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS) which is a local urban transport service for people with disabilities or for those who find it difficult using mainstream public transport.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20674%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266054","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266054"}},{"id":"266053","reference":"AQW 673/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-06","answerBy":"2016-06-21","answered":"2016-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how many road deaths have occurred since 1 January 2016; and what measures his Department will put in place to reduce road fatalities.","answerText":"At 13 June 2016, a total of 22 people have lost their lives on roads in the North of Ireland this year. This compares to 32 at the same time last year and 31 for 2014.\n\nMy Department continues to take a range of actions to reduce deaths and serious injuries on our roads. We focus on the key causes of road casualties, and on groups which are over-represented in the casualty figures.\n\nThe Road Traffic (Amendment) Act (NI) 2016 which completed its passage through the Assembly earlier this year makes provision for a new drink driving regime and a new Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Scheme. Work is already underway to develop the significant package of subordinate legislation now required to implement the new measures.\n\nMy Department has a statutory duty to promote road safety and, within the context of the Northern Ireland Road Safety Strategy, does this through a wide range of rolling road safety education activities, including road safety public information campaigns and education programmes.\n\nThrough its current portfolio of awareness campaigns, my Department in 2016 will continue to focus on problem areas, such as drink driving, speeding, carelessness and inattention; and on groups which are over-represented in the casualty figures.\n\nMy Department also continues to provide a range of resources and schemes to be used by teachers to allow them to improve road safety behaviours in children and young people. Resources are also available to community organisations to aid them promote road safety in local areas and I am announcing this week that the 2016/17 road safety grant scheme is now open for applications.\n\nI recognise the continuing challenges of preventing road deaths and serious injuries and as such my Department will continue to address the issues through various activities.","answerHtml":"At 13 June 2016, a total of 22 people have lost their lives on roads in the North of Ireland this year. This compares to 32 at the same time last year and 31 for 2014.
My Department continues to take a range of actions to reduce deaths and serious injuries on our roads. We focus on the key causes of road casualties, and on groups which are over-represented in the casualty figures.
The Road Traffic (Amendment) Act (NI) 2016 which completed its passage through the Assembly earlier this year makes provision for a new drink driving regime and a new Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Scheme. Work is already underway to develop the significant package of subordinate legislation now required to implement the new measures.
My Department has a statutory duty to promote road safety and, within the context of the Northern Ireland Road Safety Strategy, does this through a wide range of rolling road safety education activities, including road safety public information campaigns and education programmes.
Through its current portfolio of awareness campaigns, my Department in 2016 will continue to focus on problem areas, such as drink driving, speeding, carelessness and inattention; and on groups which are over-represented in the casualty figures.
My Department also continues to provide a range of resources and schemes to be used by teachers to allow them to improve road safety behaviours in children and young people. Resources are also available to community organisations to aid them promote road safety in local areas and I am announcing this week that the 2016/17 road safety grant scheme is now open for applications.
I recognise the continuing challenges of preventing road deaths and serious injuries and as such my Department will continue to address the issues through various activities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20673%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266053","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266053"}},{"id":"266015","reference":"AQW 635/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-06","answerBy":"2016-06-21","answered":"2016-06-14","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 include a miscarriage support strategy as part of maternity services from 2016.","answerText":"My Department’s guidance entitled ‘Regional Bereavement Guidance on evidence-based, holistic care of parents and their families after the experience of miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death’ published in November 2014, updated December 2015, is the support strategy offered to women and their families throughout the time of their loss.\n\nThe Guidance is used in conjunction with specific care pathways for pregnancy loss at all gestations and is implemented by all HSC Trusts.","answerHtml":"My Department’s guidance entitled ‘Regional Bereavement Guidance on evidence-based, holistic care of parents and their families after the experience of miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death’ published in November 2014, updated December 2015, is the support strategy offered to women and their families throughout the time of their loss.
The Guidance is used in conjunction with specific care pathways for pregnancy loss at all gestations and is implemented by all HSC Trusts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20635%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=266015","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=266015"}},{"id":"265883","reference":"AQW 570/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-03","answerBy":"2016-06-20","answered":"2016-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the progress of a sixth form for Killard House School, Donaghadee; (ii) what meetings have taken place to date; (iii) who in the Education Authority is managing the process; and (iv) whether the development stage will include an open consultation with parents of children already attending Killard House School or parents of children who have the potential to become students of Killard House Schools sixth form.","answerText":"Responsibility for the planning of all grant-aided schools rests with the Education Authority (EA). The EA has advised that a meeting took place with representatives of the Board of Governors of Killard House and the principal on 15 April 2016. Officers from the Children and Young People's Services Directorate were in attendance.\n\nDiscussions took place regarding the area plan and the proposed recommendation within the area plan to progress towards 3-19 provision in special schools which would include Killard House. The Board of Governors was clear regarding the proposal timeframe for the action plan and recognised that this would, in time, require a development proposal. The statutory development proposal process involves widespread consultation.\n\nBefore publication, the Board of Governors, staff and parents of the school concerned must be consulted as well as other schools which may be affected by the proposal. Following publication, there is a statutory two month objection period, during which anyone may provide comments directly to my Department.\n\nThe draft area plan for special schools will be subject to public consultation in the autumn once I have approved it for publication.\n\nA senior officer in the EA education and area planning office is leading the process, with input from the Children and Young People's Services Directorate.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for the planning of all grant-aided schools rests with the Education Authority (EA). The EA has advised that a meeting took place with representatives of the Board of Governors of Killard House and the principal on 15 April 2016. Officers from the Children and Young People's Services Directorate were in attendance.
Discussions took place regarding the area plan and the proposed recommendation within the area plan to progress towards 3-19 provision in special schools which would include Killard House. The Board of Governors was clear regarding the proposal timeframe for the action plan and recognised that this would, in time, require a development proposal. The statutory development proposal process involves widespread consultation.
Before publication, the Board of Governors, staff and parents of the school concerned must be consulted as well as other schools which may be affected by the proposal. Following publication, there is a statutory two month objection period, during which anyone may provide comments directly to my Department.
The draft area plan for special schools will be subject to public consultation in the autumn once I have approved it for publication.
A senior officer in the EA education and area planning office is leading the process, with input from the Children and Young People's Services Directorate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20570%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265883","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265883"}},{"id":"265882","reference":"AQW 569/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-03","answerBy":"2016-06-20","answered":"2016-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many children with a confirmed medical diagnosis of autism (i) have been assessed by an educational psychologist; and (ii) are awaiting diagnosis by an educational psychologist, broken down by county.","answerText":"(i) The Education Authority has advised that it does not hold this information on a database and a manual file search would be required across the region.\n\n(ii) If a child has a diagnosis of an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and is referred to Educational Psychology an assessment will be completed. As per response to AQW 568/16-21 the diagnosis of children with autism is the responsibility of the Department of Health and is therefore confirmed by Paediatric ASD Services within Trusts. Educational Psychologists neither diagnose nor confirm a diagnosis of autism.","answerHtml":"(i) The Education Authority has advised that it does not hold this information on a database and a manual file search would be required across the region.
(ii) If a child has a diagnosis of an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and is referred to Educational Psychology an assessment will be completed. As per response to AQW 568/16-21 the diagnosis of children with autism is the responsibility of the Department of Health and is therefore confirmed by Paediatric ASD Services within Trusts. Educational Psychologists neither diagnose nor confirm a diagnosis of autism.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20569%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265882","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265882"}},{"id":"265881","reference":"AQW 568/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-03","answerBy":"2016-06-20","answered":"2016-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many children diagnosed with autism, confirmed by an educational psychologist, are receiving (i) the number of hours of recommended support; and (ii) less than the recommended hours of support, including the reasons for these children not receiving the recommended hours.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that the diagnosis of children with autism is the responsibility of the Department of Health and is therefore confirmed by Paediatric ASD Services within Trusts. Educational psychologists neither diagnose nor confirm a diagnosis of autism.\n\nChildren with a Statement of Special Educational Needs have an entitlement to the level of support as set out in the statement and as agreed with the school. The support may come in the form of additional adult support and/or intervention from EA autism support services. The number of hours is specific to each child and is agreed with the parent and school.\n\nIn some cases, if schools have difficulty recruiting adult assistance, a child may receive less than the recommended level. Schools are encouraged to put contingencies in play to meet the need, pending the appointment of the adult assistant.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that the diagnosis of children with autism is the responsibility of the Department of Health and is therefore confirmed by Paediatric ASD Services within Trusts. Educational psychologists neither diagnose nor confirm a diagnosis of autism.
Children with a Statement of Special Educational Needs have an entitlement to the level of support as set out in the statement and as agreed with the school. The support may come in the form of additional adult support and/or intervention from EA autism support services. The number of hours is specific to each child and is agreed with the parent and school.
In some cases, if schools have difficulty recruiting adult assistance, a child may receive less than the recommended level. Schools are encouraged to put contingencies in play to meet the need, pending the appointment of the adult assistant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20568%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265881","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265881"}},{"id":"265880","reference":"AQW 567/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-03","answerBy":"2016-06-20","answered":"2016-08-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how many further education colleges provide autism friendly support including a quiet room and support from a specified autism teacher or support officer.","answerText":"All further education colleges provide a range of additional support for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities including those with autism. This support can range from discrete provision for those unable to access mainstream further education provision through to technical and individual personal support.\n\nThe support provided by colleges for students with autism can include classroom support as well as one to one sessions with lecturers, support workers and study skills advisers. The support is provided by teaching and support staff that have had training and/or experience in working with students on the autism spectrum.\n\nEach further education college also has either a dedicated quiet room or space available on each campus or can facilitate access to such a room where this is required by any student including those with autism.","answerHtml":"All further education colleges provide a range of additional support for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities including those with autism. This support can range from discrete provision for those unable to access mainstream further education provision through to technical and individual personal support.
The support provided by colleges for students with autism can include classroom support as well as one to one sessions with lecturers, support workers and study skills advisers. The support is provided by teaching and support staff that have had training and/or experience in working with students on the autism spectrum.
Each further education college also has either a dedicated quiet room or space available on each campus or can facilitate access to such a room where this is required by any student including those with autism.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20567%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265880","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265880"}},{"id":"265879","reference":"AQW 566/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-03","answerBy":"2016-06-20","answered":"2016-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure when the Loughdoo, Tullymally, Dunevely and Drumarden Roads on the Ards Peninsula will be repaired.","answerText":"I can advise the Member that my Department’s TransportNI operate a cyclic routine inspection regime on all adopted roads including those referred to in her question.\n\nA reduced level of maintenance service is currently being implemented by TransportNI due to budgetary constraints. As a consequence only the highest priority defects are being repaired across the entire road network.\n\nI can confirm that Loughdoo Road was inspected recently and a number of recordable defects were noted for repair under the current reduced level of service. I understand that these defects have now been repaired. The other roads referred to by the Member are not due to be routinely inspected for another three months and any recordable defects will be repaired thereafter.","answerHtml":"I can advise the Member that my Department’s TransportNI operate a cyclic routine inspection regime on all adopted roads including those referred to in her question.
A reduced level of maintenance service is currently being implemented by TransportNI due to budgetary constraints. As a consequence only the highest priority defects are being repaired across the entire road network.
I can confirm that Loughdoo Road was inspected recently and a number of recordable defects were noted for repair under the current reduced level of service. I understand that these defects have now been repaired. The other roads referred to by the Member are not due to be routinely inspected for another three months and any recordable defects will be repaired thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20566%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265879","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265879"}},{"id":"265754","reference":"AQW 478/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-02","answerBy":"2016-06-17","answered":"2016-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many women in each Health and Social Care Trust miscarried in each year from 2010-11 to 2015-16; and how many miscarriages occurred (i) in hospital; and (ii) away from hospital.","answerText":"Information is not collected centrally on the number of women who miscarry in each Health and Social Care Trust; therefore it is not possible to determine the exact number of miscarriages that occurred either in or away from hospital. The number of admissions to hospital with a pregnancy miscarriage recorded is given in the following table by HSC Trust, for each of the last five years (the latest available data).\n\nHSC Trust\t2010/11\t2011/12\t2012/13\t2013/14\t2014/15\nBelfast\t562\t566\t379\t403\t382\nNorthern\t432\t459\t390\t373\t403\nSouth Eastern\t477\t434\t360\t388\t356\nSouthern\t606\t623\t646\t663\t606\nWestern\t480\t456\t482\t409\t419\nTotal\t2,557\t2,538\t2,257\t2,236\t2,166\n\nSource: Hospital Inpatient System\n\nNote:\n\nThe number of pregnancy miscarriages given includes all pregnancy losses from the time of conception until 24 weeks gestation.\n\nReadmissions for retained products of conception following treatment for ectopic pregnancy, hydatidiform mole, other abnormal products of conception or spontaneous abortion have been excluded.","answerHtml":"Information is not collected centrally on the number of women who miscarry in each Health and Social Care Trust; therefore it is not possible to determine the exact number of miscarriages that occurred either in or away from hospital. The number of admissions to hospital with a pregnancy miscarriage recorded is given in the following table by HSC Trust, for each of the last five years (the latest available data).
| HSC Trust | 2010/11 | 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | 2014/15 |
| Belfast | 562 | 566 | 379 | 403 | 382 |
| Northern | 432 | 459 | 390 | 373 | 403 |
| South Eastern | 477 | 434 | 360 | 388 | 356 |
| Southern | 606 | 623 | 646 | 663 | 606 |
| Western | 480 | 456 | 482 | 409 | 419 |
| Total | 2,557 | 2,538 | 2,257 | 2,236 | 2,166 |
Source: Hospital Inpatient System
Note:
The number of pregnancy miscarriages given includes all pregnancy losses from the time of conception until 24 weeks gestation.
Readmissions for retained products of conception following treatment for ectopic pregnancy, hydatidiform mole, other abnormal products of conception or spontaneous abortion have been excluded.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20478%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265754"}},{"id":"265753","reference":"AQW 477/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-02","answerBy":"2016-06-07","answered":"2016-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many community organisations that applied for funding directly from her Department for 2016-17 are awaiting confirmation of this funding; and when letters of offer or rejection will be issued.","answerText":"My Department has received a total of 66 applications for funding for the 2016/17 financial year. Out of this total, 13 letters of offer have been issued. A further 22 applications have been approved and those organisations will receive letters of offer within the next week.\n\nThe remaining 31 applications are still being assessed by the Department.","answerHtml":"My Department has received a total of 66 applications for funding for the 2016/17 financial year. Out of this total, 13 letters of offer have been issued. A further 22 applications have been approved and those organisations will receive letters of offer within the next week.
The remaining 31 applications are still being assessed by the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20477%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265753"}},{"id":"265752","reference":"AQW 476/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-02","answerBy":"2016-06-17","answered":"2016-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether miscarriages that occur outside hospital are recorded and reported by GPs; and where such information is stored or published.","answerText":"My Department does not routinely record miscarriages that occur outside hospital and the information requested is therefore not available.","answerHtml":"My Department does not routinely record miscarriages that occur outside hospital and the information requested is therefore not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20476%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265752","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265752"}},{"id":"265751","reference":"AQW 475/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-02","answerBy":"2016-06-17","answered":"2016-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how much funding her Department provided to Health and Social Care Trusts for bereavement services for women, and their families, following miscarriage; and to detail the nature of the service provided in each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"My Department’s Maternity Strategy, ‘A Strategy for Maternity Care in Northern Ireland 2012 – 2018’, sets out the strategic direction for all maternity care in the North of Ireland. Patient representative groups were fully consulted during the development of the strategy. With regard to my Department’s policy on miscarriage: in implementing the Maternity Strategy, the Public Health Agency has developed a commissioning intention and referral pathway, based on NICE guidance, which specifies the approach to development of Early Pregnancy Assessment Services (EPAS) throughout the North of Ireland.\n\nMy Department’s regional bereavement guidance (Regional bereavement guidance on evidence-based, holistic care of parents and their families after the experience of miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death) has been recently updated and is available on the Department’s website: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/bereavement-guidance-after-experience-miscarriage-stillbirth-or-neonatal-death\n\nIt is not possible to provide specific funding information for bereavement services for women, and their families, following miscarriage as support will be provided by midwives, nurses and doctors in Maternity or Gynae wards who are part of the core maternity and gynae service teams in Health and Social Care Trusts. There are five Bereavement Co-ordinators located across the North. The Belfast and South Eastern Trusts also provide dedicated bereavement midwife support to women and their families.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Maternity Strategy, ‘A Strategy for Maternity Care in Northern Ireland 2012 – 2018’, sets out the strategic direction for all maternity care in the North of Ireland. Patient representative groups were fully consulted during the development of the strategy. With regard to my Department’s policy on miscarriage: in implementing the Maternity Strategy, the Public Health Agency has developed a commissioning intention and referral pathway, based on NICE guidance, which specifies the approach to development of Early Pregnancy Assessment Services (EPAS) throughout the North of Ireland.
My Department’s regional bereavement guidance (Regional bereavement guidance on evidence-based, holistic care of parents and their families after the experience of miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death) has been recently updated and is available on the Department’s website: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/bereavement-guidance-after-experience-miscarriage-stillbirth-or-neonatal-death
It is not possible to provide specific funding information for bereavement services for women, and their families, following miscarriage as support will be provided by midwives, nurses and doctors in Maternity or Gynae wards who are part of the core maternity and gynae service teams in Health and Social Care Trusts. There are five Bereavement Co-ordinators located across the North. The Belfast and South Eastern Trusts also provide dedicated bereavement midwife support to women and their families.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20475%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265751","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265751"}},{"id":"265750","reference":"AQW 474/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-06-02","answerBy":"2016-06-17","answered":"2016-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the strategic policy to address the number of miscarriages that take place annually; and what consultation her Department, or Health and Social Care Trusts, have had with women that have miscarried.","answerText":"My Department’s Maternity Strategy, ‘A Strategy for Maternity Care in Northern Ireland 2012 – 2018’, sets out the strategic direction for all maternity care in the North of Ireland. Patient representative groups were fully consulted during the development of the strategy. With regard to my Department’s policy on miscarriage: in implementing the Maternity Strategy, the Public Health Agency has developed a commissioning intention and referral pathway, based on NICE guidance, which specifies the approach to development of Early Pregnancy Assessment Services (EPAS) throughout the North of Ireland.\n\nMy Department’s regional bereavement guidance (Regional bereavement guidance on evidence-based, holistic care of parents and their families after the experience of miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death) has been recently updated and is available on the Department’s website: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/bereavement-guidance-after-experience-miscarriage-stillbirth-or-neonatal-death\n\nIt is not possible to provide specific funding information for bereavement services for women, and their families, following miscarriage as support will be provided by midwives, nurses and doctors in Maternity or Gynae wards who are part of the core maternity and gynae service teams in Health and Social Care Trusts. There are five Bereavement Co-ordinators located across the North. The Belfast and South Eastern Trusts also provide dedicated bereavement midwife support to women and their families.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Maternity Strategy, ‘A Strategy for Maternity Care in Northern Ireland 2012 – 2018’, sets out the strategic direction for all maternity care in the North of Ireland. Patient representative groups were fully consulted during the development of the strategy. With regard to my Department’s policy on miscarriage: in implementing the Maternity Strategy, the Public Health Agency has developed a commissioning intention and referral pathway, based on NICE guidance, which specifies the approach to development of Early Pregnancy Assessment Services (EPAS) throughout the North of Ireland.
My Department’s regional bereavement guidance (Regional bereavement guidance on evidence-based, holistic care of parents and their families after the experience of miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death) has been recently updated and is available on the Department’s website: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/bereavement-guidance-after-experience-miscarriage-stillbirth-or-neonatal-death
It is not possible to provide specific funding information for bereavement services for women, and their families, following miscarriage as support will be provided by midwives, nurses and doctors in Maternity or Gynae wards who are part of the core maternity and gynae service teams in Health and Social Care Trusts. There are five Bereavement Co-ordinators located across the North. The Belfast and South Eastern Trusts also provide dedicated bereavement midwife support to women and their families.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20474%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265750","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265750"}},{"id":"265328","reference":"AQW 231/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-05-27","answerBy":"2016-06-13","answered":"2016-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many of the thirty five staff (seven per Health and Social Care Trust area) promised in the last mandate to reduce autism diagnosis waiting times; (i) have been recruited; (ii) are currently in post and working to reduce autism diagnosis waiting times; and when the remaining posts will be filled.","answerText":"The additional £2m investment for children’s autism services announced earlier this year has been available to Trusts from 1 April 2016 and is currently being applied to address waiting list pressures, pending the finalisation of a new regional service model required to meet current and future demand. The exact details of this model, including the required skill mix in each Trust, will be agreed over the next few months.\n\nIn the meantime, some HSC Trusts have commenced the process of appointing staff on a temporary basis and the HSC Board has recently confirmed that Trusts can make permanent appointments provided they can be utilised in line with the new model, once finalised. As with all HSC posts, Trusts are required to follow a robust recruitment process for permanent staff and this can take up to 9 months to complete.\n\nMy Department has also taken action to ensure that Trust plans are focused on the need for sustained, demonstrable improvements in waiting times and services for children with autism and their families, and that the robust monitoring of those plans is being prioritised.","answerHtml":"The additional £2m investment for children’s autism services announced earlier this year has been available to Trusts from 1 April 2016 and is currently being applied to address waiting list pressures, pending the finalisation of a new regional service model required to meet current and future demand. The exact details of this model, including the required skill mix in each Trust, will be agreed over the next few months.
In the meantime, some HSC Trusts have commenced the process of appointing staff on a temporary basis and the HSC Board has recently confirmed that Trusts can make permanent appointments provided they can be utilised in line with the new model, once finalised. As with all HSC posts, Trusts are required to follow a robust recruitment process for permanent staff and this can take up to 9 months to complete.
My Department has also taken action to ensure that Trust plans are focused on the need for sustained, demonstrable improvements in waiting times and services for children with autism and their families, and that the robust monitoring of those plans is being prioritised.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20231%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265328","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265328"}},{"id":"265327","reference":"AQW 230/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-05-27","answerBy":"2016-06-13","answered":"2016-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she intends to review the condition of roads across the Ards Peninsula; to details how many roads have unrepaired potholes (as of the end of June 2016); how many roads have been identified for repair and when those repairs will be completed.","answerText":"I can advise the Member that my Department’s TransportNI operates a cyclic routine inspection regime on all adopted roads including those within the Ards Peninsula. As such there is no requirement to carry out a review of the condition of the roads across the Ards Peninsula as the inspection regime is ongoing throughout the year.\n\nAt this time I am unable to provide details of the number of roads which have unrepaired potholes up to the end of June 2016. I would also point that the number of roads where repairs have been identified is not normally recorded as a separate statistic on our systems.\n\nUnder the current reduced level of service due to budgetary constraints, only the highest priority defects are being fixed across the entire road network, including unclassified rural roads. These defects will be repaired within either one calendar day or five working days depending on their severity and depending on the necessary resources being available.","answerHtml":"I can advise the Member that my Department’s TransportNI operates a cyclic routine inspection regime on all adopted roads including those within the Ards Peninsula. As such there is no requirement to carry out a review of the condition of the roads across the Ards Peninsula as the inspection regime is ongoing throughout the year.
At this time I am unable to provide details of the number of roads which have unrepaired potholes up to the end of June 2016. I would also point that the number of roads where repairs have been identified is not normally recorded as a separate statistic on our systems.
Under the current reduced level of service due to budgetary constraints, only the highest priority defects are being fixed across the entire road network, including unclassified rural roads. These defects will be repaired within either one calendar day or five working days depending on their severity and depending on the necessary resources being available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20230%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265327","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265327"}},{"id":"265326","reference":"AQW 229/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-05-27","answerBy":"2016-06-13","answered":"2016-07-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail how much was spent by the Department for Regional Development to rebuild and reinstate roads that were eroded, damaged or destroyed by coastal erosion and/or tidal surges; each year for the past 10 years (from April 2005 to the end of March 2016), broken down per county.","answerText":"My Department does not record expenditure at the specific level of detail in order to respond in the format requested.\n\nThe member may, however, be interested to know that extensive coastal erosion work has been undertaken by the former Department for Regional Development over the past five years comprising of sea defence strengthening, rock armouring, rock face netting, slope stabilisation and repairs to sea walls in County Down and along the A2 Coast Road in County Antrim. The estimated expenditure arising from the engineering works that were carried out over the past five years is illustrated below for both Down and Antrim.\n\n2011 \\ 2012 - £287,000\n\n2012 \\ 2013 - £1,052,000\n\n2013 \\ 2014 - £2,026,000\n\n2014 \\ 2015 - £764,500\n\n2015 \\ 2016 - £292,000","answerHtml":"My Department does not record expenditure at the specific level of detail in order to respond in the format requested.
The member may, however, be interested to know that extensive coastal erosion work has been undertaken by the former Department for Regional Development over the past five years comprising of sea defence strengthening, rock armouring, rock face netting, slope stabilisation and repairs to sea walls in County Down and along the A2 Coast Road in County Antrim. The estimated expenditure arising from the engineering works that were carried out over the past five years is illustrated below for both Down and Antrim.
2011 \\ 2012 - £287,000
2012 \\ 2013 - £1,052,000
2013 \\ 2014 - £2,026,000
2014 \\ 2015 - £764,500
2015 \\ 2016 - £292,000
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20229%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265326","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265326"}},{"id":"265325","reference":"AQW 228/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-05-27","answerBy":"2016-06-13","answered":"2016-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) how many teachers are employed in primary schools; (ii) how many of those teachers have completed accredited autism awareness training; and (iii) how many primary school teachers currently hold up to date autism awareness training certification.","answerText":"The number of teachers employed in the 2014/15 academic year in Primary schools was 8,782 and 140 in Preparatory departments.\n\nAutism specific training for teachers, to build the capacity of schools to effectively meet the needs of children with autism, has been delivered by the Education Authority (EA) and Middletown Centre for Autism (MCA). However,\n\nthe EA and MCA have advised that they do not hold a database on teachers with accredited autism awareness training or on teachers who currently hold up-to-date autism awareness training certification.\n\nNotes:\n\nInformation on teacher numbers is taken from the Teachers’ Payroll and Pensions Administration System and validated individually with each school on an annual basis.\n\nThe data provided refer to the 2014/15 academic year, and specifically to 24-28 November 2014.\n\nThe following types of teacher are included:\n\nfull-time (FT) permanent teachers;\n\npart-time (PT) permanent teachers;\n\ntemporary teachers filling vacant posts, secondments or career breaks\n\nThe following teachers are excluded:\n\nsubstitute teachers covering illness or other short-term absences;\n\nperipatetic teachers;\n\nteachers employed under the Signature Project\n\nThe figures provided are headcounts, where a part-time teacher counts the same as a full-time teacher.","answerHtml":"The number of teachers employed in the 2014/15 academic year in Primary schools was 8,782 and 140 in Preparatory departments.
Autism specific training for teachers, to build the capacity of schools to effectively meet the needs of children with autism, has been delivered by the Education Authority (EA) and Middletown Centre for Autism (MCA). However,
the EA and MCA have advised that they do not hold a database on teachers with accredited autism awareness training or on teachers who currently hold up-to-date autism awareness training certification.
Notes:
Information on teacher numbers is taken from the Teachers’ Payroll and Pensions Administration System and validated individually with each school on an annual basis.
The data provided refer to the 2014/15 academic year, and specifically to 24-28 November 2014.
The following types of teacher are included:
full-time (FT) permanent teachers;
part-time (PT) permanent teachers;
temporary teachers filling vacant posts, secondments or career breaks
The following teachers are excluded:
substitute teachers covering illness or other short-term absences;
peripatetic teachers;
teachers employed under the Signature Project
The figures provided are headcounts, where a part-time teacher counts the same as a full-time teacher.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20228%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265325","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265325"}},{"id":"265277","reference":"AQW 180/16-21","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"16-21","tabled":"2016-05-27","answerBy":"2016-06-13","answered":"2016-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether she plans to overturn the lifetime ban on the donation of blood by men who have sex with men.","answerText":"On Thursday 2 June, having considered the evidence regarding patient safety, with the agreement of the Executive I decided to end the lifetime ban on blood donation by men who have had sex with men (MSM) and to put in place a twelve-month blood donation deferral for MSM.\n\nThe new policy will come into effect on 1 September 2016.\n\nIt is important to stress that blood donors comply with any deferral rules that apply to them.","answerHtml":"On Thursday 2 June, having considered the evidence regarding patient safety, with the agreement of the Executive I decided to end the lifetime ban on blood donation by men who have had sex with men (MSM) and to put in place a twelve-month blood donation deferral for MSM.
The new policy will come into effect on 1 September 2016.
It is important to stress that blood donors comply with any deferral rules that apply to them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20180%2F16-21","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=265277","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=265277"}}]}