To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any steps her Department is taking to support second earners, particularly women.

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.