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.

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.