Northern Ireland Assembly, 10 September 2012

327 contributions from 68 members. The official report.

Assembly Business

Alasdair McDonnell (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast South)

On a point of order, Mr Speaker. It is with great sadness that I have to raise a point of order with you, but, during recent weeks, the Minister for Social Development's reactions to events in north Belfast have brought the House into serious disrepute. The Minister failed to give full support to the upholding of law and order. To my mind, Minister Nelson McCausland has clearly breached articles 1.4 and 1.5 of the ministerial Pledge of Office. Mr Speaker, is there any way in which you can take some action and sort this situation out?

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

I thank the Member for his point of order. As he will know, as Speaker, I have no role in deciding whether the Pledge of Office, including even the ministerial code, has been breached by any Minister. The Member will know that these are complex and difficult issues. As Speaker, I have no role whatsoever in that. However, I will be keen to talk to the Member outside the Chamber about the complex issues to do with whether a Minister has broken the Pledge of Office or with his role as a Minister.

Alasdair McDonnell (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast South)

Further to that point of order, Mr Speaker, I have discussed this issue with some of my colleagues, and we feel that this breach is very serious for the House. You rightly suggested that you do not have the authority on that matter, and we accept your wisdom on that. In that event, and because of the behaviour, we may have no option but to bring a motion of censure to the Floor.

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

Order. I listened intently to the Member, but, once again, I will say that these are complex matters. I say to all Members that, as Speaker, I have no role whatsoever in this issue. However, I am always keen to talk to Members outside the House on these issues, because they are complex.

Order. Before we proceed to today's business, I welcome Members back after the summer recess.

As Members will know, I am so glad to see them in the Chamber this afternoon, and I also have a few announcements.

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

I wish to inform the House that the Budget (No. 2) Act (Northern Ireland) 2012 has received Royal Assent and became law on 20 July 2012.

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

I have received the resignations of Mr Alban Maginness as Chairperson of the Committee for Enterprise, Trade and Investment and of Mr Joe Byrne as Deputy Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee. Mr Patsy McGlone was nominated as Chairperson of the Committee for Enterprise, Trade and Investment and Mr John Dallat was nominated as Deputy Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee, both with effect from 7 September 2012. Mr McGlone and Mr Dallat accepted the nominations. I am satisfied that the requirements of Standing Orders have been met and, therefore, confirm that the appointments took effect from 7 September 2012.

Matter of the Day

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

Mr Alban Maginness has been given leave to make a statement on the award given to Michael McKillop by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), which fulfils the criteria set out in Standing Order 24. I recognise the huge success of many athletes from right across Northern Ireland who attended the Paralympic Games. I will be reasonably relaxed if Members want to widen the issue slightly, because I understand that there is a wider issue.

Members will be aware that I wrote to them on 3 July about changes to the arrangements for calling them to speak on matters of the day. I do not intend to revisit all the details of my ruling in the Chamber this afternoon. However, I remind the House that there will no longer be a speaking list at the Table. If other Members wish to speak, they should clearly indicate to me that they wish to be called by rising in their place and continuing to do so until they are called, as happens at Question Time. All decisions on who is called will be at my discretion. I will take a number of factors into account, as I always do. I do not expect most matters of the day to take much longer than they did before, but I have ruled that there will be a maximum time limit of 30 minutes.

Before I call Mr Maginness, I remind other Members who wish to be called that they should rise clearly in their place and continue to do so. All Members will have up to three minutes to speak. As I said, on this occasion, I will allow Members more latitude, within reason, to refer to the success of other Olympians. I will not take any points of order until the end. If that is clear, we shall proceed. The changes have come about because Members from various parties raised issues about getting the balance of business and party contributions right in the House. They have been made to streamline the business of the House as we enter the new session.

Alban Maginness (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast North)

I rise to speak about Michael McKillop and his extraordinary success at the Paralympics. I am also mindful of the many others from Northern Ireland who engaged in the Paralympics and, indeed, the Olympics. I have to say that they have done us proud. Their extraordinary efforts should be appreciated by all in the House. The courage and skill demonstrated and the entertainment and thrills that they provided us with are a matter of great celebration for all the people in Northern Ireland and in the House. I refer to not only Michael McKillop but to Jason Smyth, Bethany Firth and all those who won medals and participated in the Paralympics.

Michael McKillop is a lucky man: lucky because he lives in North Belfast and is one of my constituents. I know that Mr Ford has tried to claim him, but he has 200 metres of North Belfast to claim into South Antrim. North Belfast is a wonderful place, as we all know, because we have seen such extraordinary achievement from Michael McKillop — and, indeed, from Paddy Barnes, I hasten to add. It is a great honour for me, as a representative of North Belfast, to applaud the fact that Michael McKillop not only won two gold medals — he won both the T37 1,500 metres and 800 metres — but established himself as the world's greatest Paralympic middle-distance runner. Indeed, he had the honour of being presented with one of the gold medals by his mother, Catherine, and, of course, his father Paddy has been a wonderful coach in his athletic endeavours.

Michael is an extraordinary person, and the extraordinary zeal that he has shown for the Paralympic movement has been recognised by the International Paralympic Committee, and he was rightly honoured last night in London. The London Olympics and Paralympics have been a wonderful success.

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

I remind the Member of the time.

Alban Maginness (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast North)

The House should congratulate Michael on the honour that he has bestowed on all the people in Northern Ireland and in Belfast.

Gregory Campbell (DUP, East Londonderry)

On behalf of my party and, I am sure, the rest of the House, I join the honourable Member for North Belfast in paying tribute to Michael McKillop, who was an outstanding Paralympian, and the other athletes. We do not want to go round the houses to say how tremendous each constituency is. Having said that, it would be remiss of me to ignore the Chambers brothers and Alan Campbell, who were absolutely magnificent in the Olympics, as were Jason Smyth and Sally Brown in the Paralympics. We undoubtedly have much to be proud of. We all sat and watched with awe as the inspiring efforts of our Olympians and Paralympians brought success back to Northern Ireland. I understand that recognition for the athletes will be forthcoming, and that is right and proper.

Only a couple of days ago, the manager of the Russian football team, who was formerly a failed manager of England, Fabio Capello, when talking about the forthcoming match against Northern Ireland, said:

"Sure it is only Northern Ireland".

Well, it is only Northern Ireland that has the best Paralympian in the world in Jason Smyth, and it is only Northern Ireland that has the greatest boxers, rowers and other athletes from across the Province. We pay tribute to them, and we are exceptionally proud of them all.

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

I ask Members to continually rise in their places. There is a keen interest in this subject, and if Members continually rise, we will try to get all Members in.

Cathal Ó hOisín (Sinn Féin, East Londonderry)

Go raibh maith agat, a Cheann Comhairle. I concur with what the previous Members have said and congratulate Michael McKillop on winning the Whang Youn Dai achievement award for the most outstanding Paralympic athlete of the games. Yesterday's all-Ireland hurling final brought together a wonderful summer of sporting achievement right across the island. It was a remarkable achievement for Team Ireland to win eight gold, three silver and five bronze medals. I think of Jason Smyth from my own neck of the woods who, of course, won double gold to follow the two that he had from Beijing.

I commend the Minister for putting together a reception this week. I wish her well after her recent hospitalisation and hope that she will make it on Thursday. I hope that Members here will attend the event in the Building on Thursday evening to mark the achievements of all the Olympians right across the board.

There are also many who took part and did not win gold, and I congratulate them for their achievements. I think particularly of Sally Brown from Ballykelly. Last week was a very historic week for Ballykelly. Sally, of course, is the granddaughter of Brian Brown, who was a councillor of ours in Limavady Borough Council.

In fairness, perhaps this summer has changed people's attitude to sport. Particularly, and I heard this repeated on the radio this morning, it has changed people's attitude to disabilities. People have seen remarkable disabled athletes achieve goals that, a few short years ago, would have been beyond their reach. The House should join together and congratulate those people and mark that this week.

Robin Swann (UUP, North Antrim)

On behalf of the Ulster Unionist Party, I congratulate all our Paralympic and Olympic medal winners. I had the privilege to meet Michael McKillop at the LOCOG Inspire event held here in the Northern Ireland Assembly earlier in the year, and I had the chance to speak to him about his commitment to the positive promotion of Paralympic sports. He carries that to schools and community organisations throughout Northern Ireland. What I found especially significant with Michael was his unassuming, humble approach to his achievements. That night, he could not understand why he had even been invited here, never mind being on the stage. When Michael reflects this morning, he can look back at his two gold medals — a T37 1,500 metres gold medal and the world record and a T37 800 metres gold — and the fact that he was given the special award for male athlete who best exemplified the spirit of the Paralympics at the games in London. Having met Michael, I am under no illusion that he is well deserving of all those medals and the accolades.

Like Members who spoke previously, I add my congratulations to all the competitors who took part in the Paralympic and the Olympic Games. I also commend the game makers from Northern Ireland who went across to London and volunteered in various capacities to make the event the success that it was. There was a large commitment in dedication and time from people from Northern Ireland to make the Olympics the true success that we have seen.

David Ford (Alliance, South Antrim)

I join in the congratulations to Michael and to all our Paralympians and Olympians. I echo the words that were said by nearly every Member of the House, apart from the nasty border war that Alban Maginness was attempting to wage with me. The key thing, and why he quite correctly highlighted Michael McKillop, is not just the issue of the medals or taking part, but the fact that Michael was recognised as truly embodying the Paralympian spirit, and that is a very significant statement for this society as a whole, not just for him. I remind Alban Maginness that, although the Sandyknowes area of Newtownabbey may currently be in North Belfast, he acknowledged that it is by only 200 metres, and we all know how quickly Michael McKillop could cover that if he wanted back into South Antrim.

On a serious point, as somebody who, in a past life, was a senior social worker in Newtownabbey and worked with groups assisting people with disabilities, it is a huge statement that one of ours achieved that award for embodying the spirit. It is recognition not just of what Michael and his family have done, which is clearly significant, it is also something in which all those involved in working to assist people with disabilities across Northern Ireland can take pride, especially those in Newtownabbey. Although we should recognise that the achievement of that special award is a victory for all of us, it is clearly a victory most particularly for Michael and his family, and it is something that we should all take pride in.

Last night, Lord Coe said that the Paralympic Games had changed the way in which we relate to disability. If that is the lasting legacy for all of us, that is something that will be truly worthwhile.

Paula Bradley (DUP, Belfast North)

I congratulate all the Olympians and Paralympians from Northern Ireland. From the very moment when we stood out on the steps on the Sunday morning when the torch came up to Stormont right through until the closing ceremony of the Paralympics last night, I was drawn in and truly addicted to it over those wet, horrible weeks in August. I especially want to speak as a Member for North Belfast and as someone who grew up in Glengormley, someone who represents Glengormley, someone who lives in Glengormley and someone who was the mayor of Newtownabbey and met Michael on several occasions. What a wonderful young man and what a wonderful ambassador for Paralympic sport in Northern Ireland and, of course, Newtownabbey. I offer him my wholehearted congratulations. I look forward to the homecoming party that he deserves when he arrives back in Glengormley.

David McNarry (Independent, Strangford)

I thank the Member for North Belfast for bringing the matter to us. What a way to start our new session, all together as we should be. Is it not wonderful how sport is the equaliser that brings us together?

I want to mention a couple of things. Having watched the faces of the athletes — just to be on the track; just to be in the auditorium; just to be doing whatever they were there to do — I can tell you that, for me, their expressions sold everything. In fact, at times, they really put me to shame, in that I did not recognise the disability that they had and how they were overcoming that. When I watched people play football, with a bell to direct them towards the goal, I said, "That is just astounding." We saw how people have overcome their disability to the best of their abilities and made the best out of them.

I will touch on the legacy. Much has been said about the legacy that the games will bring. Northern Ireland, on top of its victorious achievements, should now be laying claims for that legacy to make sure that we get a part of it and that funding is assured for the future. We end the games by looking forward to Rio de Janeiro in Brazil.

Finally, I say that we are a great country, Northern Ireland. We bump into people all over the world, holding positions in many, many spheres, who we can relate to because they come from a village or town or city that we were born in or know well. We have done well in these sports, at international and national level. I am very proud of all who took part and hope that they get the welcome they deserve. I hope that we remember what they have laid down for the young people coming after them. We have so much to look forward to.

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for allowing the matter to be heard today.

Michelle McIlveen (DUP, Strangford)

Like other Members, I thank the Member for bringing forward the matter on the achievements of Michael McKillop. Those of us who were gripped by the Paralympics over the past couple of weeks were no doubt amazed at the victory over adversity that those who took part displayed. The efforts and achievements of Michael are certainly deserved in earning him the accolade of male athlete who best exemplified the spirit of the games. Michael utterly dominated both his races, but in his post-race interviews was truly magnanimous and gracious in victory, paying tribute to his fellow racers.

Although the Matter of the Day concerns the award conferred upon the Glengormley resident, I pay tribute to all the athletes from Northern Ireland who played a full and determined part in what was probably the best Olympic and Paralympic Games that I have ever seen. I thank James Brown, Sally Brown, Eilish Byrne, Bethany Firth, Laurence McGivern, Jason Smyth, Sharon Vennard, Paddy Barnes, Michael Conlon, Hannah Craig, Martyn Irvine, David McCann, Iain Lewers, Lisa Kearney, Alan Campbell, Richard and Peter Chambers, Ryan Seaton, Matt McGovern, James Espey, Sycerika McMahon, Melanie Nocher, Na Liu, Aileen Morrison and Gavin Noble for entertaining and inspiring all of us. They were all ambassadors for Northern Ireland on a world stage.

From the opening ceremony of the Olympics, when the Phil Kids' Choir sang on the Giant's Causeway, to Sir Kenneth Branagh's portrayal of Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Dame Mary Peters passing the torch to Katie Kirk to light the cauldron while Alex Trimble sang, through to the presentation of Michael McKillop's award, Northern Ireland was front and centre at the beginning, middle and end of both games. I pay tribute to the coaches, volunteers, schoolchildren, games makers and others from Northern Ireland who contributed to the outstanding success of London 2012, and, of course, all who made these the greatest Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Mr Speaker, I realise that the further achievement this weekend of Rory McIlroy should not go unmentioned and unrecognised. Yet again, he has made sure that Northern Ireland is at the centre stage of sporting success.

David McClarty (Independent, East Londonderry)

All of us have something in common this morning — all of us are back to school. However, we are also suffering from withdrawal symptoms from the Olympics and, latterly, the Paralympics. There were fantastic events on the world stage, and the Northern Ireland athletes proved themselves equal, if not more than equal, to others from around the world. I am talking not only about the medallists from Northern Ireland, but all the competitors, because even to achieve Olympic standard is a tremendous achievement for any athlete. Of course, I particularly think of the athletes from my own constituency. I remember particularly well standing in a church hall with the MP for the area and then at the Diamond watching our rowers bring honour and glory. They showed the real Olympic spirit. I think particularly of Alan Campbell who was on the point of exhaustion and was willing and able to give his very last to achieve his bronze medal.

I want to pay tribute to not only the athletes, Mr Speaker, but to their parents and families. They have made tremendous sacrifices over the years for their sons, daughters or whomever. Those people are not used to the limelight, but they had microphones thrust under their nose, and they represented Northern Ireland to the very best when they had to comment on national television.

Assembly Business

Maurice (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

I beg to move

That, in accordance with Standing Order 10(3A), the sitting on Monday 10 September 2012 be extended to no later than 7.30pm.

Question put and agreed to.

Resolved:

That, in accordance with Standing Order 10(3A), the sitting on Monday 10 September 2012 be extended to no later than 7.30pm.

Committee Business

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

As with similar motions, this will be treated as a business motion. Therefore, there will be no debate.

Resolved:

That Mr Declan McAleer replace Ms Michaela Boyle as a member of the Committee for Agriculture and Rural Development; that Ms Rosie McCorley replace Mr Pat Sheehan as a member of the Committee for Culture, Arts and Leisure; that Mr Chris Hazzard and Mr Pat Sheehan replace Mr Phil Flanagan and Mr Daithí McKay as members of the Committee for Education; that Ms Sue Ramsey replace Ms Jennifer McCann, and that Ms Maeve McLaughlin be appointed, as members of the Committee for Enterprise, Trade and Investment; that Mr Barry McElduff replace Mr Chris Hazzard as a member of the Committee for the Environment; that Ms Megan Fearon be appointed as a member of the Committee for Finance and Personnel; that Ms Maeve McLaughlin be appointed as a member of the Committee for Health, Social Services and Public Safety; that Ms Rosie McCorley replace Ms Jennifer McCann as a member of the Committee for Justice; that Ms Megan Fearon and Ms Bronwyn McGahan replace Mr Francie Molloy and Ms Caitríona Ruane as members of the Committee for the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister; that Mr Declan McAleer be appointed as a member of the Committee for Regional Development; that Mr Phil Flanagan be appointed as a member of the Committee for Employment and Learning; that Ms Caitríona Ruane be appointed as a member of the Assembly and Executive Review Committee; that Mr Francie Molloy replace Mr Alex Maskey as a member of the Committee for Standards and Privileges; that Mr Phil Flanagan replace Ms Sue Ramsey as a member of the Committee on Procedures; that Mr Daithí McKay be appointed as a member of the Public Accounts Committee; and that Mr Gerry Kelly be appointed as a member of the Business Committee. — [Mr McCartney.]

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

We now move to the second motion on Committee membership. Again, this will be treated as a business motion. Therefore, there will be no debate.

Resolved:

That Mr Sean Rogers be appointed as a member of the Public Accounts Committee; and that Mr Alban Maginness be appointed as a member of the Committee for Enterprise, Trade and Investment. — [Mr P Ramsey.]

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

I know that this is the first day back, but the "ayes" need to be a wee bit louder.

Ministerial Statement

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

Mr Speaker, in accordance with the requirements of the Northern Ireland Act 1998, I wish to make the following report on the eighth British-Irish Council ministerial meeting on the misuse of drugs, which was held in St Helier, Jersey on Friday 29 June 2012. Junior Minister Jennifer McCann MLA and I represented the Northern Ireland Executive at the meeting.

Deputy Anne Pryke, Jersey’s Minister for Health and Social Services, hosted the meeting. Jersey was also represented by the Minister for Home Affairs, Senator Ian Le Marquand, and the Assistant Minister for Health and Social Services, Constable John Refault. The Irish Government were represented by the Minister of State with responsibility for primary care, Ms Róisín Shortall TD, who chaired the meeting. Lord Henley, Minister of State for Crime Prevention and Antisocial Behaviour Reduction, represented the UK Government. Guernsey was represented by the Minister of Home Department, Mr Jonathan Le Tocq. The Isle of Man was represented by Honourable Juan Watterson MHK, Minister for Home Affairs. Ms Roseanna Cunningham, Minister for Community Safety and Legal Affairs, represented the Scottish Government. Finally, the Welsh Government were represented by Ms Joanna Jordan, director of corporate services and partnerships at the Health, Social Services and Children Department.

The main thematic discussion at the meeting focused on 'Young people and drugs — breaking the cycle’. During the discussion, Ministers shared evidence in relation to the trends in drug use among young people, and it was agreed that there is a need for an improved understanding of how the attitudes and behaviours of young people change and develop, as that is important in optimising the success of any interventions. Ministers agreed that the promotion of healthier lifestyle choices for young people through an improved focus on personal development and life skills is the key to breaking the cycle of substance use.

A graduated approach to prevention and education measures was favoured, ranging from universal approaches aimed at the general population, such as consistent education in the school setting and public information, to taking more targeted approaches, such as brief interventions and assertive outreach, aimed at those who are at greater risk. The importance of providing timely, age-appropriate treatment and support to young people who use drugs was discussed, together with alternative options other than incarceration for dealing with young offenders.

Discussions also focused particularly on how drug misuse can affect families and especially on addressing the increased risks for children in families that are experiencing problem substance use. The need for referral procedures across all service providers to ensure early and appropriate interventions for members of such families was also highlighted.

Concluding this section of discussion, the Council agreed on the importance of endeavouring to provide opportunities and experiences for young people that would lessen the likelihood of their becoming involved in drug use, as well as dealing with such issues for this age group in a way that increases the chances for long-term drug-free living.

During the meeting, Ministers also took the opportunity to discuss the use and misuse of alcohol in their jurisdictions. We exchanged information on the extent of problems relating to alcohol and the various approaches that are being taken to address the issues, including through legislative measures being explored in a number of member Administrations. Following the discussion, Ministers agreed that the use and misuse of alcohol should be included in the work of the British-Irish Council. Given the nature of alcohol use across the jurisdictions, we consider that this is a very positive and useful development.

We also reviewed the recent work carried out by the British-Irish Council in the area of the misuse of drugs. This included the summit meeting that took place in Dublin in January this year, where heads of Administrations and Ministers discussed ‘Recovery from problem drug use’ and agreed to encourage a renewed focus on recovery and to share successful approaches in that regard.

The 2012 programme also covered issues such as developing methods of assessing the progress of local drugs programmes to inform what is a wider policy development; the development and implementation of naloxone programmes to reduce deaths from opiate overdoses; and issues around the misuse of prescription drugs, in particular benzodiazepines.

It was agreed by Ministers that the meetings had provided a useful forum for sharing the detailed expertise and knowledge of those involved in the drugs sector across the British-Irish Council area. It was also noted that, in addition to exploring specific themes in depth, each meeting had facilitated the exchange of information on wider policy developments and initiatives.

We agreed that the work programme for 2013 would include sectoral group meetings on the misuse of drugs in Scotland, the United Kingdom, Guernsey and Ireland. That will help to continue the development of the formal and informal links that have built up between the Administrations to the benefit of the effort against drug misuse in all jurisdictions.

It was agreed that the next ministerial meeting of the work stream would be in late 2013.

Mike Nesbitt (UUP, Strangford)

I thank the junior Minister for his update on this important work. I go back to paragraph 11: did the junior Minister sense a meeting of minds from delegates on the issue of alternatives to incarceration? I have the impression, for example, that the tradition on the Isle of Man is what we might call a rather punitive physical intervention regime.

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

In the criminal justice system, the 'New Strategic Direction for Alcohol and Drugs: Phase 2' outlines all the actions that we will take to reduce the harm related to alcohol and drug misuse, and the Northern Ireland Department of Justice has significant input to addressing alcohol- and drug-related offending. Through the 'New Strategic Direction for Alcohol and Drugs: Phase 2', a number of planned actions will assist offenders to overcome drug and substance misuse. They will include substance misuse programmes for those who are on probation and those in prison. It involves local policing and community safety partnerships working closely with drug and alcohol co-ordination teams to address substance misuse behaviour in communities. It includes the roll-out of a regional initial assessment tool into other sectors and the development of that tool as the first point of contact for all our agencies that work with young people so that they can identify, intervene early and signpost to the appropriate agencies so that young people can get the help that they need. It involves community organisations working in prisons to deliver psychological and educational programmes to all offenders, and it ensures that there is a continuum of treatment and support for those who are leaving prison and returning to the community and access to addiction services in the three custody suites. Those are the targeted measures that we will use to help young people to come through drug dependency and, in many cases, alcohol and drug dependency.

William Humphrey (DUP, Belfast North)

I thank the junior Minister for his statement. He is quite right that early intervention is the key to this, and I agree entirely with him. The Minister will be aware that today is world suicide prevention day. He has visited my constituency of North Belfast and met those involved in trying to prevent the spread of the awful scourge of suicide, so he will know that a joined-up approach is —

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

I encourage the Member to come to his question.

William Humphrey (DUP, Belfast North)

The connection between drugs, drink and suicide is well known. Does the Minister agree with me that the work of organisations such as FASA and church youth organisations is key to a resolution and that, as the Health Minister said this morning, a joined-up approach is absolutely essential.

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

The Member raises two key points: joined-up working and early intervention. I am more than happy to place on record our thanks to the people in his constituency and to the churches and youth and community organisations, many of which work on an entirely voluntary basis, who work hard to give young people the opportunity, through, first of all, prevention and, secondly, early intervention, to receive the help that they need. It is important that we have targeted initiatives for those most at risk, including reaching out to the children and young people in North Belfast, Strangford and, I am sure, in all our constituencies who are not in education, employment or training. I pay tribute to those organisations and to all the organisations working across the constituencies, including my constituency of Strangford, where we have North Down Community Assistance, Scrabo Residents Association and Ards Community Network, which worked in the Bowtown estate to transform murals and to ensure that young people got a positive message about abstaining from drug use. All those organisations deserve tremendous credit.

As I said in my statement, the important thing, in my view, is that the health and social care family has developed a regional initial assessment tool. That allows all those non-specialist workers to screen and assess a young person's drug and alcohol misuse, provide an initial intervention and signpost him or her to the correct service. That tool has been piloted and evaluated in the youth justice sector, and work is under way to roll it out across all the sectors: social services, education and the police. Over the past two years, the Public Health Agency has piloted the one-stop shop initiative to support young people around substance misuse.

As the Member for North Belfast pointed out, in his constituency, which is, in many ways, no different from all our constituencies, not only do young people have issues with substance misuse but there is the very serious issue of suicide. That is a priority for Jennifer McCann and me. Those of us who have worked with young people and lost some of them in our previous careers in social services know the impact that suicide has on social workers, the family, the loved ones and the surrounding families. However, there are also the issues of self-harm and mental health and well-being, and different pilot sites have been established in rural and urban areas. Each has taken a slightly different approach, but the initiative will be rolled out across Northern Ireland, and it will recognise that the misuse of drugs is often linked to the misuse of alcohol, self-harm and poor sexual and mental health.

Also as part of phase 2 of the new strategic direction, a range of local low-threshold counselling and mentoring services for children and young people is being commissioned and made available across Northern Ireland. Prevention is key, but it is key not only that we invest in services to prevent young people from engaging in substance misuse but that there is early intervention and a treatment and support service. I pay tribute to the local low-threshold counselling services, which are often the very first point of contact in the health service for children and young people with substance misuse issues.

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Go raibh maith agat. I thank the Minister for his statement and answers so far. Given that the meeting focused on the issue of young people and drugs and breaking the cycle, what steps are the Executive taking to ensure not only that there is early intervention but that the signs of drugs misuse that the general public, schoolteachers and others can pick up on are reacted to? There should be a process that young people, particularly those at school, can go through to get support and intervention without being criminalised.

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

The Member raises some important issues. There is a co-ordinated approach, initially with the Department of Education but also involving the Department of Health and the Department for Social Development. The key strategy that runs through all of this is the new strategic direction. As the Member states, it is important — the Executive are focused on recognising this — to realise that children and young people can be susceptible to the harm related not just to their own substance misuse but to that of others. We have to realise that a number of our young people have carers and parents who live with substance and alcohol misuse. It must be recognised that each individual has their own needs and will require a different approach from that taken with adults to address those needs.

Therefore, two themes are being taken forward through the Executive: one is the theme of adults and the general public, and the second is that of children, young people and their families. As the Member alluded to in his question, the age of initiation can be critical. There is evidence that, sometimes, the earlier the young person starts drinking, the more likely they are to have serious alcohol problems later in life. Therefore, the focus on prevention work is being carried out to target a range of groups and through a wide spectrum of organisations, including not only the schools but the Youth Service and the wide body of community organisations that exist. However, a significant proportion of it is being taken forward in education settings. There is also a new focus on increasing the emphasis on developing and promoting prevention work in community settings, particularly for groups that are termed "hard-to-reach" and areas that are described as "disadvantaged".

The Member asked for specific initiatives. The key initiatives include the roll-out of the adapted school health and alcohol harm reduction project, which many Members will know as SHAHRP, in Northern Ireland. That project has already shown effectiveness in reducing alcohol-related harm among schoolchildren in Northern Ireland, and alcohol and drug misuse remain mandatory elements of the school curriculum in Northern Ireland, as part of the wider personal and social development agenda.

Colum Eastwood (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Foyle)

I thank the junior Minister for his statement. Has he or his Executive colleagues given any more thought to minimum pricing for alcohol?

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

Yes. Minimum pricing for alcohol remains a very live subject that is under discussion. That is because of the significance of alcohol misuse to us in Northern Ireland. The research that we are looking at has shown that it costs up to £900 million a year and is a much bigger issue than drug misuse. I repeat: the cost of alcohol misuse is £900 million a year in Northern Ireland. The issues of particular concern are, as the Member says, first, how the alcohol is priced and, secondly, how it is promoted. Research has shown that alcohol is 62% more affordable today than it was more than 30 years ago in 1980 and that, as the relative price of alcohol falls, its consumption and misuse increase. The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety and the Department for Social Development have been following developments in this area. In 2011, the Departments issued a joint consultation on the principle of introducing a minimum unit price in Northern Ireland, and they continue to work together on the issue. They are keen to assess and establish the impact that minimum unit pricing is likely to have in Northern Ireland. They are commissioning research to model the likely effect of minimum unit pricing in Northern Ireland, and that will help to inform the future decision in that area. I understand that we are also looking at the issues with colleagues in the Republic of Ireland.

Chris Lyttle (Alliance, Belfast East)

I thank the junior Minister for his update on the work that is being undertaken. What is his assessment of the extent and type of drug and alcohol misuse among young people and others in Northern Ireland? What practical and legislative measures are being explored in other British and Irish Administrations to address the misuse of alcohol in particular?

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

It is important to note that, in Northern Ireland, the majority of our young people do not take drugs and that most of those who take those substances have done so recreationally. I do not like to use that term, as it can be misguiding and lead to a false impression. In my view, any time that you take drugs, there is potential for harm. However, many of the young people who have experimented have not gone on to develop addiction or suffer significant harm. That having been said, as I know from my social work experience, there are many cases where young people have been at the very onset of starting to take drugs and have suffered severe health effects as a result. The message should go out to young people that there is no harm-free option in experimenting with drugs.

As the Member knows, drug misuse is only one issue that faces many of our young people. Alcohol misuse, obesity, sexual health, mental health, peer pressure and bullying all have an impact on our young people. However, research from surveys that have been carried out shows that Northern Ireland seems to be reaching something of a plateau in levels of drug misuse. We have real concerns about more young people involving themselves in drug use with the emergence of what are sometimes known as "new psychoactive substances" and sometimes mislabelled as "legal highs". I say that they are mislabelled as "legal highs", and I refer anybody who uses that term to the Medicines Act, which shows that it is illegal to provide drugs of that nature for human consumption. We need to avoid using the term "legal highs" or even dressing them up as "new psychoactive substances". These are drugs that are harmful, and young people appear to be using them, but, to answer the Member's question directly, overall drug misuse seems to be reaching something of a plateau. In my assessment, cannabis remains the main drug of misuse for our young people. Some 69% of the under-18s in treatment recorded cannabis as their main drug. Mephedrone is having an impact, with 17% recording that as their drug of misuse. Thankfully, we have very low numbers of under-18s either reporting the use of or seeking treatment for the use of heroin and cocaine. In addition, we see very low numbers of under-18s who are injecting any drugs.

As has been said by a number of Members, alcohol misuse among our young people remains the most prevalent issue for us to deal with. Some 46% of pupils report having taken an alcoholic drink, and of those who have had an alcoholic drink, 49% were aged 13 or under when they had their first drink. However, I am pleased to report that some progress is being made on reducing the percentage of young people who get drunk, which has fallen from 33% in 2003 to 23% in the last figures that I looked at, which are for 2010.

Overall, it is important that we do not overplay the figures or underplay the issue. Many young people will suffer real and lasting harm from drug use. There is no room for complacency. We need to provide a range of services from prevention through to intervention and treatment services to support our young people not to use drugs in the first place and to assist them in their recovery when they do.

George Robinson (DUP, East Londonderry)

I thank the junior Minister for his statement. Will he outline whether any proposals were made to ensure that local police forces work closely together to combat drug trafficking in the United Kingdom?

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

That is an example of a very focused question.

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

Essentially, what has been done in police forces right across the jurisdictions is to focus on sharing good practice. Secondly, there is a focus on the fact that, as I said, it is not an issue for the police and the criminal justice system alone, although, when young people go on probation or are incarcerated as a result of a sentence, there is a co-ordinated approach to ensure that the cycle of addiction is broken, not only while they are in prison but when they are out of prison, through a continuum of progress. The focus was on multidisciplinary working, and that included the police services.

Danny Kinahan (UUP, South Antrim)

I thank the junior Minister for his statement, which is on a hugely important matter. I remind him that, in what he is saying, there is too much on strategy, research, developing methods and informing wider policy, and there is a danger of referring to it as waffle again. We want to see actions, timelines and targets.

I will get to my question. Page 3 of the statement mentions legislative measures being explored in other Administrations. I think that that is also what Mr Lyttle was asking about and did not get an answer to. What other legislative measures are there or have been mentioned?

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

Nothing was specifically identified as new legislation, as I recall. I will avoid point scoring because I think I have shown the clear and new processes that are taking place in dealing with young people You may regard the work that is done on the school health and alcohol harm reduction project that I outlined as waffle, but I can assure you that, if you were to listen to the young people and schools in south Antrim, they would tell you, as they are telling me in Strangford and across Northern Ireland, that the school health and alcohol harm reduction project has already been shown to be effective in reducing alcohol-related harm in schoolchildren in Northern Ireland. If you had been listening, you would have heard that alcohol and drug misuse remain mandatory elements of the school curriculum in that part of Northern Ireland. If you had been listening, you would have heard the targeted initiatives that reach out to young people not in education, employment or training. If you had been listening, you would have heard the specific information on the regional assessment tool, which gives the non-specialist workers the opportunity of interventions and signposting to the correct service, and that that tool had already been piloted and rolled out across other key sectors like social services, education and the police. If you had been listening, you would have heard that the Public Health Agency has been piloting the one-stop shop initiative, which helps young people around substance misuse. If you had been listening, you would also have heard that it was helping with suicide, self-harm, mental health, sexual health, relationship issues, resilience and coping skills. You would also have heard, had you been listening, of the low-threshold counselling that has been rolled out across Northern Ireland. It is important that people, even those in their castles, do not refer to waffle when they look down but think for a second of the poor man at the gate dealing with families and children, and, instead of party political point scoring, focus on what has already delivered success to young people in Northern Ireland.

Jim Allister (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

I was listening, and I heard the Minister dodge the essence of the question from Mr Nesbitt, so can I take him back to that matter? What are these alternatives to incarceration? Fuzzy, liberal talk about alternatives to incarceration comes very easily, but what are the alternatives that have been discussed? Do they involve any element that is punitive, so necessary for deterrence? The Minister likes to cultivate a persona of being tough on crime, so let us hear from him. What are the alternatives to imprisonment for young offenders that he is thinking of?

Mike Nesbitt (UUP, Strangford)

Hear, hear.

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

Mr Nesbitt said "Hear, hear"; I do not know whether he is proposing the model of flogging people. The TUV leader seems to act as the plenipotentiary for the absent Ulster Unionist leader on so many occasions. I do not know whether they are talking about bringing people out and flogging them. The Ulster Unionist leader was talking about the Isle of Man: I am not sure what those initiatives were. Certainly, I spoke to people on the Isle of Man at the weekend about the initiatives that have taken place there, but, if it is now the TUV/Ulster Unionist policy to want people to be brought out and publicly flogged, it is up to them to defend that argument. I am interested — [Interruption.]

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

Order.

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

If the TUV and Ulster Unionists want to go out and advocate public flogging, I think they will find themselves as embarrassed as they are now, which means they are trying to get out from their sedentary positions — [Interruption.] Look: those who are serious — and I mean serious — about helping young people avoid harm know that we have to do a number of things. First, we had to establish the regional assessment tool. We had to make sure that, whether you live in Dungannon or Ballyhalbert, when you come forward to the health service you can have a proper assessment, and that assessment could often direct you to counselling services that would prevent you going into a criminal career of drug misuse. That is the key.

The second initiative, if you had been listening —

Jim Allister (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

Drug misuse —

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

Order.

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

You and Mike can go and argue all you like that you want people publicly flogged in the streets — [Interruption.] He will be more embarrassed than you are, and that might be hard — [Interruption.]

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

Order.

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

The initiatives are not about scoring points, Mike. They are not about flogging people in the centre of Newtownards. The initiatives are about a one-stop shop: young people getting the help where they need it; getting the pressure taken off them that has led many of them to attempt suicide and self-harm; getting help for their mental health and well-being and for the threat to their sexual health; and assistance with their relationships, resilience and coping skills.

I may not have spoken to them all, but I have spoken to many across Newtownards and right across the north, south, east and west of this Province. It may disappoint Mike Nesbitt and Jim Allister, but the focus of the Northern Ireland people is to assist young people, to intervene early, to give them the treatment that they need, to get them help when they fall into the criminal justice system and to ensure that they get help on a continuing basis when they come through the criminal justice system and out the other end, so that they can maintain their treatment and prevent recidivism. There is not a single person anywhere that I have travelled who goes for the Allister/Nesbitt approach of hang them and flog them in public.

Mike Nesbitt (UUP, Strangford)

On a point of order, Mr Speaker.

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

A point of order from Mr Nesbitt, before we move on.

Mike Nesbitt (UUP, Strangford)

Will the Speaker go back over Hansard and contrast the words of the junior Minister to my words? He is making a connection that does not exist.

Jim Allister (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

Further to that point of order —

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

Let me deal with that point of order first. As the Member will know and I have said in the House on many occasions, I do not sit as an arbitrator in how a Minister might answer a question, but I am happy to look at Hansard for you. I call Mr Allister.

Jim Allister (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

I am obliged, Mr Speaker, and I am sure that you are anxious that no one is misrepresented. The Minister was asked a very simple question: what is he advocating as an alternative to imprisonment? We listened, and we heard no answer, because he has no answer. Instead, he seeks to misrepresent what I said, which was not "Let's flog them"; it was "What is your alternative to imprisonment?".

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

Order. Let us move on. Once again, as in a lot of these debates, I see it as the cut and thrust of debate. Members need to be continually reminded to be of good temper and show moderation in the Chamber. That goes for Ministers as well. Let us move on.

Jonathan Bell (DUP, Strangford)

On a point of order, Mr Speaker. Can we also hear from the Ulster Unionist leader what he referred to when he talked about the excessive physical punishment on the Isle of Man?

William Hay (Speaker, Foyle)

Order. I am not prepared to open the debate again. Let us move on, but I will look at Hansard and come back to the Member directly.

(Mr Principal Deputy Speaker [Mr Molloy] in the Chair)

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

With your permission, Mr Speaker, I wish to make a statement in compliance with section 52 of the 1998 Act, regarding the seventeenth meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council in agriculture sectoral format, held in Armagh on Wednesday 25 July 2012.

The Executive were represented by Minister Sammy Wilson MP MLA and me. The Dublin Government were represented by Simon Coveney TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and Phil Hogan TD, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government. Minister Coveney chaired the meeting. This statement has been agreed with Minister Wilson, and I make the statement on behalf of us both.

The Council discussed recent developments and next steps in the CAP reform process and noted the possibility that an EU agreement may be reached during the Irish EU presidency in the first half of 2013. The Council further noted the strong commonality between Agriculture Departments on the main issues. Ministers discussed the need for a sufficient period of transition towards flat-rate area payments and the importance of regional flexibility in implementing CAP proposals. It was also agreed that Ministers should host a joint CAP-themed event at the national ploughing championships. As the process develops, Ministers and officials will maintain close contact, with a view to maximising benefits for farmers and rural communities right across the island.

The Council noted that on 12 June the EU Council of Ministers agreed a general approach on proposals for a basic common fisheries policy (CFP) regulation and the Common Market organisation regulation. The Danish Presidency has also submitted a progress report for the EU Council to note on a proposal for a European maritime and fisheries fund regulation. The EU Council’s agreed proposals for reform of the common fisheries policy will be considered by the European Parliament, and a final CFP reform package is likely to be agreed during the Irish Government's presidency in 2013.

Ministers agreed that officials from the two Agriculture Departments will remain in close contact to ensure that shared aims for fisheries reform are represented to the greatest extent possible in the final agreement.

Ministers discussed recent developments and opportunities in international trade, including the agrifood industry’s strong record of export-led growth making the sector well placed to exploit opportunities for increased global trade. Ministers also discussed prospects for developing agrifood links between China and Ireland in areas such as animal health, equine studies and research and trade.

The Council welcomed progress on the delivery of the all-island animal health and welfare strategy action plan, including the submission to the EU by both Agriculture Departments of the applications for Aujeszky’s disease-free status, with the aim of having both applications considered at the EU Standing Committee on Food Chain and Animal Health meeting; the hosting of an international vaccination experts’ scientific symposium in May 2012 in Belfast, which considered the potential that vaccination could play in the eradication of bovine TB; further liaison between officials during discussions on the proposed new EU animal health law; and a successful joint cross-border mapping exercise called Exercise Mirrormap, which took place on 29 February 2012. Ministers also looked forward to receiving a further progress report at their next meeting.

The Council noted a progress report provided by the plant health and pesticides steering group on the implementation of its work programme, including an informal meeting in February 2012 to discuss potato and ornamental pests, surveys and the review of EU plant health legislation and two forestry meetings held in March 2012; facilitation, under the research agendas of the two Agriculture Departments, of a number of research projects, including projects on potato blight, blackleg and phytophthora ramorum, and the collaboration on the EUPHRESCO project on current and emerging phytophthora — I probably said that wrong — species; preparations for a trilateral meeting with the Food and Environment Research Agency to discuss areas of mutual concern, particularly the EU reform of plant health legislation; and agreement to establish an early incident warning protocol in relation to measures to control pesticide use.

The Council also welcomed the significant and ongoing cross-border co-operation to deal with the challenges posed by outbreaks of phytophthora diseases in forests. Ministers welcomed ongoing co-operation on rural development programme issues, specifically in relation to the support of cross-border engagement by local action groups. We also welcomed the progress of the €10 million INTERREG IVA funding for six strategic, cross-border rural development projects and the recent launch of projects such as harnessing natural resources, the Castleblayney and South Armagh rural investment initiative, and the river links and Clones Erne East Blackwater rural regeneration.

The Council also approved the InterTradeIreland 2012 business plan, recommended the budget and noted the Tourism Ireland annual report and draft accounts 2011. The Council agreed to hold the next agriculture sectoral meeting on 31 October 2012. Go raibh míle maith agat.

Paul Frew (DUP, North Antrim)

I thank the Minister for her statement. She noted that there were discussions on the CAP reform and on the progress, or indeed lack of progress, on the negotiations. There were discussions on the need for a sufficient period of transition towards flat area payments and the importance of regional flexibility within that. As well as discussions in the North/South Ministerial Council, can the Minister tell us what discussions she has had in Europe on those two issues and when she will be meeting the new Minister, Owen Paterson, on the issue of CAP reform?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Obviously, a lot of focus at the minute is on CAP reform. I take every opportunity. I have had meetings with the agricultural cabinet in Europe. I have also had meetings with Dacian Ciolos, the European Commissioner, and I will be meeting him over the next number of days to discuss further our proposals.

Obviously, for us, the most important thing was maintaining a decent budget as well as flexibility and simplification. They remain the three key tenets of the arguments that we are taking to Europe. In order for us to move forward, we need an agreement on the budget. Unfortunately, that has not happened yet. There were some indications that that would happen this side of Christmas, but it is now widely believed by many member states that that might not happen. That will push the whole timetable back.

All the negotiations will be ongoing over the next number of months. There will be the October, November and December Council meetings, in which we will actively engage. We have the new Minister in DEFRA; Owen Paterson is taking on that position. Hopefully, he will be able to reflect at any opportunity the views of the North and the farmers here and will have a bit more insight into the type of farming that happens here, given that he was placed here for some time. I will have a phone call with him later this week, and we will have to engage with him as I did over the past 14 to 16 months with the former Minister for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. When we go to Europe, we do not differ on the details; we differ on the overall budget and the arguments that we put to Europe. We have to continue to exploit that alliance.

Oliver McMullan (Sinn Féin, East Antrim)

I thank the Minister for her update. Will she update us on the position of the negotiations on the common fisheries policy (CFP) reform?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

At this stage, things seem to be slipping, but there has been a bit more progress on CFP now that a general approach has been agreed. However, there is a lot more to be done before a final decision can be reached. The intention, according to the timetable, is that an agreement will be reached by the middle of next year. The key issue that we need to press for is the need for regionalisation. The EU needs to recognise the diversity of the fisheries in EU waters. Obviously, fisheries vary according to location, so we need the Commission to take the view that one size does not fit all, that we need regionalisation, and that we need to be able to create our own management plans, which suit the needs of the industry, deal with the science, look at future sustainability and deal with the problems that we have with disregards.

Jo-Anne Dobson (UUP, Upper Bann)

I thank the Minister for her statement. I note her emphasis on international trade, which is extremely important for the future of our local agriculture industry. Will she assure those companies and farmers who are thinking of tapping into new markets that they will not be treated by DARD in the same way as local potato producers were treated when their cargo was rejected in Morocco?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

I am committed to making sure that our farmers reach their full potential and can exploit all the available opportunities for trade. That is why I established the Agri-Food Strategy Board along with the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment. We wanted to look at the challenges and barriers to growth and at how to work in partnership with industry to ensure that we reach our potential.

We have fantastic produce, which is well marketed and which people want. The clean, green image of our produce is something that people want right across Europe and further afield. I will continue to work with farmers and industry in general to make sure that we take up all those potential opportunities. One of those opportunities is the links with China, which I am keen to continue to explore.

The Member mentioned the seed potato and Morocco. I dealt with that issue in the House before and I engaged with the farmers concerned. The Chair of the Committee wrote to me on the issue and I am happy to discuss it further with the Committee if it feels it is necessary.

Joe Byrne (Social Democratic and Labour Party, West Tyrone)

I, too, welcome the statement, but I am concerned about its lack of substance. On international trade, what sort of meaningful discussions are going on between the Republic and ourselves about opening up potential markets in China and Russia? Given that most of our beef and pig farmers are experiencing difficulties at the moment, all urgency needs to be applied by the Department to make sure that we have some meaningful marketing exercises.

Secondly, will the Minister assure us that the new INTERREG IVa programme will not be affected by the kind of bureaucracy that pertained in the past and which caused a lot of frustration for local groups?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

As I said in my previous answer, I am committed to ensuring that we reach our potential and tap into the markets that exist. Our growth, and the success of the agrifood sector, has been in the export market, and we will target export-led growth in the time ahead. There are potential avenues in China and Russia, and there are many other directions in which we should be looking in order to market our produce. As I said, our produce has a fantastic clean, green image that people seek out.

I agree with the Member about our pig farmers. There are issues around getting pork products into China because of the export certificate. I am actively involved in challenging that situation, and I raised it with the First Minister and the deputy First Minister ahead of all their previous visits to China. I have raised it with the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment and I intend to take it up when I visit China.

Kieran McCarthy (Alliance, Strangford)

I thank the Minister for her statement this afternoon. My question is along the lines of Oliver McMullan's as regards the common fisheries policy. Will the Minister advise the House whether any joint representations have been made? We are coming up to the December meeting in Brussels concerning quotas, etc, and Northern Ireland has certainly been at the sharp end of cuts every December. I acknowledge that there has been a rise in the herring quota recently, and we thank the Minister for her efforts in that area, but can she give us any encouragement that perhaps a joint effort will see a relaxation in the quotas for our local fishing industry?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

When I reported to the House after last year's December negotiations, I called it the "dance" in Europe, because it is an unacceptable situation that we have to go out every year and argue for our quota for the year ahead. It does not allow fishermen the opportunity to plan ahead. How can you develop a business year on year not knowing what the quota will be? This is something that I will continually argue with Europe. It is not even something that CFP will fix — it will not remove the need for the December negotiations. However, I will go to those negotiations with the interests of the industry, and I will make sure that I defend the industry and its right to fish.

We have been very positive in our engagement with the Commission. We have had gear trials, which have been very successful, and our industry is meeting the needs of the Commission with respect to dealing with discards. So, in preparation for December, I will meet with the industry and make sure that we agree our key priorities. As I said, we have to go to make our case every December, which is unfortunate; but I will continue to do so. However, alongside that, I will continue to argue with the Commission that we need longer management plans for the fishing industry in order that it can be sustainable in the future.

Robin Swann (UUP, North Antrim)

I thank the Minister for her statement so far. As regards paragraph 7 of her statement, on all-island animal health, can I ask the Minister whether, with respect to the presentation on Aujeszky’s disease-free status, she can give a commitment to the House that our submission on this matter was not held back and was submitted at the same time as that of the Republic of Ireland? Also, as regards the discussions on TB, did the Minister discuss her Department's wildlife intervention programme, and was that raised at the meeting?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

As far as Aujeszky's disease-free status is concerned, we have an EU all-island animal health and welfare strategy. The principle behind it is to facilitate trade across the island. There should be no barriers to trade on such a small island. The presentations on Aujeszky's disease being submitted at the same time makes perfect sense. If we were to go ahead, and the South did not, trade would be affected. It makes good sense for us to put our submissions in at the same time. The EU Committee that will consider the matter will be doing so later this month, and we hope to have a positive outcome. I think that we are in a very positive position as regards increasing the trading opportunities that exist and not having to put in any silly controls with respect to movement across the island.

TB and brucellosis were not topics of discussion at the last meeting in any great detail. The Member is aware of my plans. I consulted with respect to compensation and decided to move forward just with the brucellosis compensation changes at this time. I will come back to the TB issue at a later stage. From 1 September, in-contacts will be treated in the same way as reactors, and the Member will be aware of that.

I think that we are doing a lot of positive work with respect to TB and the wildlife issue. It is a very emotive issue. There is no quick fix and no simple solution to TB; if there were, I would obviously take that route. We will continue with the hard work that we are engaged in as regards tackling all the factors that could possibly contribute to TB. However, there is not enough information out there, and this is an issue that we are going to have to continue to battle. I hope that we will get to the stage where we can be in a free status.

Seán Rogers (Social Democratic and Labour Party, South Down)

I thank the Minister for her statement. I note the Castleblayney and south Armagh rural investment initiative. Are any similar initiatives being drawn up or supported with respect to cross-border initiatives between the Mournes and Cooley regions? I believe that this would help to complement the strong cross-border and cross-party support for the Narrow Water bridge.

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

I am not aware of any such project at this minute, but I will be happy to make some enquiries and come back to the Member. They are beautiful regions. The mountains are lovely, and I will be climbing the Cooleys on Saturday. That is something I enjoy very much. I will look into it and come back to the Member if there are any potential projects.

Jim Allister (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

The statement refers grandly to promoting opportunities in international trade. Why, therefore, has the Minister persistently refused assistance to help with export costs, particularly transport costs, for our significant niche export market in pedigree pigs? Why is she not helping Northern Ireland producers with those exorbitant costs? Does that mean that all this talk about supporting international trade amounts to mere sound bites with no substance?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Go raibh maith agat, a Phríomh-LeasCheann Comhairle. As I said in answer to an earlier question, I am very committed to making sure that our industry reaches its full trade potential, which is why I established the Agri-Food Strategy Board. Work is under way, and it is looking at all agriculture sectors. I am quite sure that the pedigree pig issue will be raised in that working group. I have given a commitment that when the report comes to me by the end of this financial year, we will look at all the challenges and barriers to trade and growth and at how industry and government, in partnership, can challenge each other to ensure that they reach their full potential. The growth that we are targeting is export-led, so trade links are very important. We need to remove all possible barriers to that growth.

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Go raibh maith agat, a Phríomh-LeasCheann Comhairle. With your permission, I wish to make a statement in compliance with section 52 of the 1998 Act, regarding the recent meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC) in aquaculture and marine sectoral format. The meeting was held in Derry City Council offices on Wednesday 4 July. The Executive were represented by Nelson McCausland MLA and me. The Dublin Government were represented by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte TD, and the Minister of State for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Fergus O'Dowd TD. The statement has been agreed with Minister McCausland, and I am making the statement on behalf of us both.

We received a progress report on the work of the Loughs Agency from the chairperson, Winston Patterson, and the chief executive, Derick Anderson. We welcomed the development of a formal operational plan with the PSNI and an Garda Síochána to deal with assaults on agency staff, and we expressed our concern at two recent serious assaults in the Lifford area. Those assaults resulted in two members of staff being hospitalised. However, the chief executive reported at the meeting that both staff members had recovered and had resumed their duties. The agency reported that, with support from an Garda Síochána, court injunctions were obtained against two of the principal offenders, banning them from the banks of the Rivers Foyle, Finn and Mourne and from their having any contact with the agency’s fisheries protection staff.

We noted the position on the survival of Atlantic salmon, which is causing significant concern, with less than 5% of the juveniles leaving the systems returning as adults. We received an update on the agency's work in conserving and protecting fish stocks in the Foyle and Carlingford areas, including work on the prevention of salmon poaching and pollution, and the agency’s involvement in the recent North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organisation (NASCO) conference in Edinburgh.

We welcomed the memorandum of understanding between the Food Safety Authority of Ireland and the agency and the positive impact that that will have on shellfish hygiene, and we noted the ongoing improvements in the Lough Foyle oyster fishery and the reduction in incidents of bonamia. The latest results of statutory testing from the Irish Marine Institute, from the south side bed in Lough Foyle, show that the level of bonamia infection is low compared with the levels detected by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in 2010. Further testing will take place in late 2012, and mortality levels will be monitored once again in the autumn native oyster survey.

We welcomed the formal launch of the EU-funded IBIS project and heard that the project public website also came online in June to coincide with the official launch of the project. We also heard about the progress already made under the project. Twelve PhD students have taken up their positions, the first cohort of masters students has been appointed, and a full complement of support staff is in place. The agency reported that significant progress is being made on a number of research projects that will inform a number of cross-cutting management strategies.

We noted progress on marine tourism and angling development, including the completion of the pontoon at Meadowbank. We also heard about the agency’s significant contribution to the Clipper Round the World event and saw the work at first hand immediately after the meeting, as we had an opportunity to visit the crew of a local vessel participating in the race. We also heard about the agency’s preparations for the sea- and trout-angling events of the 2013 World Fire and Police Games.

The Loughs Agency gave a presentation on water framework directive fish monitoring, and we heard about the methods that the agency’s field staff use to monitor fish stocks in the Foyle and Carlingford areas, including electrofishing and various types of netting. We noted the practical use of this information by the Loughs Agency and other statutory stakeholders and heard how the monitoring is managed through a collaborative, participative process, cutting across Departments and agencies.

We approved the Loughs Agency’s business plan for 2012 and recommended budget provision for 2012 of €5·0525 million. We noted the agency's annual report and draft financial statements for 2011. We welcomed progress on the delivery of the Loughs Agency’s legislation implementation plan and noted that further regulations will require NSMC approval later in 2012. We also approved, for a further year to July 2013, a procedure to support the Loughs Agency in dealing, through regulations, with emergencies such as pollution incidents. This procedure was initially approved by the NSMC in 2009, following several major fish kills that year. The agency reported at the meeting that since the initial approval of the procedure on 20 July 2009, it has not had to operate the procedure. It was agreed that NSMC will review the operation of the procedure, including its possible renewal, before 20 July 2013.

We noted that the Loughs Agency had reviewed pay and pension arrangements for its staff. A draft economic appraisal recommended that the agency take the necessary steps to join the North/South pension scheme. It was noted that, following consideration of the legal and financial implications of this, an update will be provided at the next NSMC aquaculture and marine meeting.

Finally, we agreed to meet again in aquaculture and marine sectoral format in October or November 2012.

Paul Frew (DUP, North Antrim)

I thank the Minister for her statement on this very important issue. She mentioned the formal operational plan between the PSNI and the Irish police force for assaults on Loughs Agency staff. The Minister will be aware of incidents involving assaults on agency staff in Northern Ireland and, of course, all other illegal activity. Will she outline how many such assaults have taken place in Northern Ireland in the past three years and the outcome of any legal action taken as a result of these assaults and, indeed, in response to the wider issue of illegal activity? Will she also explain how things have improved, if at all, since we last debated the issue in the House?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Go raibh maith agat, a Cheann Comhairle. First, I condemn the attacks on agency staff. In my statement, I referred to two recent attacks, and, since the meeting, I have been informed that the people involved received a custodial sentence. That is a positive step. I took up the issue with the Minister of Justice after the previous debate, particularly the fact that repeat offenders are not dealt with sufficiently by the justice system. I hope that the impact of those custodial sentences will be to act as a deterrent. The formal operational plan has now been signed. An Garda Síochána and the PSNI have been working together very closely on these issues, and the formal arrangement that is now in place is a positive step. I have regular meetings with the Chief Constable of the PSNI to discuss rural issues in general, and I took this issue to him on the back of a lot of discussions with the Committee and Members of the House. I am pleased that a lot of positive action has been taken, and I hope that it acts as a deterrent.

I have a list detailing the numbers involved, and I am happy to provide that to you. A number of seizures of vehicles, boats and nets have taken place, which is very positive. Loughs Agency staff have seized, for example, clubs with nails in them for attacking staff — that is ridiculous. We have to come down heavily on the people involved, because staff going out to do a day or night's work should not have to fear for their safety. As I said, I am happy to provide the Member with the figures.

Oliver McMullan (Sinn Féin, East Antrim)

Go raibh maith agat, a Phríomh-LeasCheann Comhairle. I thank the Minister for her comprehensive report. Recently, Minister, we hosted a very successful stage of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race in Derry. Was the Loughs Agency involved in the preparations?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

You are absolutely right. The event was fantastic, and we were lucky enough to have the NSMC meeting in the council offices, which had a window overlooking the boats. The Loughs Agency was very involved in that it provided a new pontoon, which was invaluable, as it enabled people to access all the yachts that were coming in. We were able to walk down and have a look round one of them. The Loughs Agency provided all the temporary pontoons, as well as the permanent one. So, I am delighted that it played a significant role, because it was a fantastic event for Derry in attracting tourism to the area.

Jo-Anne Dobson (UUP, Upper Bann)

I also thank the Minister for her statement. The Chair of the Committee for Agriculture and Rural Development referred to the creation of a formal operational plan between the police and the Loughs Agency following assaults on the agency's staff. The Chair also referred to the actions that are being taken to ban offenders in the areas that are affected.

I will expand slightly on the Chair's comments, if I may. I am sure that farmers across Northern Ireland would welcome a similar operational plan to stamp out rising rural crime, which often has a cross-border element. Can the Minister update the House on her discussions in that area?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

The stats show that there has been a rise in rural crime. There is a difference between agricultural crime and rural crime. I now have regular meetings — almost quarterly — with the Chief Constable to discuss the PSNI's approach to rural crime and some of the developments that it is taking forward. It is obviously very keen to be involved. In the past, I sent to the Committee a list of all the actions that the PSNI has told me that it is involved in to tackle rural crime. I am happy to forward that list to the Member. It is an important issue, and it is vital that we are vocal about it. Sometimes where people live in a rural community can make them very isolated and an easy target. We saw the theft of sheep in rural areas over the past number of months. So, these are issues that we have to keep on top of, and I will continue to challenge the PSNI on its actions in dealing with them.

Joe Byrne (Social Democratic and Labour Party, West Tyrone)

I, too, welcome the Minister's statement. I also condemn the illegal acts that have taken place in the Lifford area with the poaching of fish. How serious are the Department, the Minister and the Loughs Agency taking the concerns of the Foyle Association of Salmon and Trout Anglers (FASTA)? The FASTA officers, who represent over 2,000 legal anglers, are very disturbed because they feel that their case is not being listened to seriously.

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

I assure the FASTA members that I will listen to their concerns very sincerely. They have raised some issues and requested a meeting with me, and I intend to have that meeting. If they have reported issues with the Loughs Agency, I am happy to explore them. I want there to be a very positive relationship because it is in everyone's interest that that exists. As I said, I will be talking to them in the near future.

Kieran McCarthy (Alliance, Strangford)

I thank the Minister once again. The Minister and our Committee Chairperson already condemned the assaults on staff who are going about their daily work. The statement refers to the group, noting:

"the Loughs Agency has reviewed pay and pension arrangements".

Is the Minister convinced that these people are suitably paid for the job that they do, bearing in mind the dangers that they offer themselves up to from poachers and whoever else?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

I will just explain what is behind the review. There was a review of the overall pay and conditions of all the staff. The proposals are still under review, and we are seeking legal advice. As with any changes to pay arrangements, it is important that you consult with staff and are very sure of your ground. The problem here is that when the North/South Ministerial Council pension scheme was set up, Loughs Agency staff could not buy into it because of legacy pay arrangements. We are now trying to bring them in so that all staff are on the same pay and conditions. As regards whether they are well enough paid, I am sure that there are people who do not think that they are. I do not have a role in setting their pay; that is done outside my control. However, I hope that they are well enough paid. They do a fantastic job, quite often in very difficult circumstances, as you say.

Robin Swann (UUP, North Antrim)

I thank the Minister for her statement. Minister, you referred to methods that the agency's field staff use to monitor fish stocks in the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Does the Minister see any advantage in expanding those methods into Lough Neagh so that we can establish a basic fish stock in Lough Neagh?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

The NSMC is obviously confined to the Foyle and Carlingford areas. You are aware that we have a working group in place to look at all the issues around Lough Neagh, and I am sure that that will be one of the issues that is raised as a result of all that work.

That is about gathering information, because so many interests on the lough need to be taken into account.

Fish stocks is a DCAL issue, but I am sure that that will come out through the work of the task force.

Karen McKevitt (Social Democratic and Labour Party, South Down)

I, too, thank the Minister for her statement. Will she give us further assurances that pay and conditions for agency staff in the North of Ireland will not be disadvantaged as a result of any decisions about public pay in the South and the threat of a review?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

I will make sure that no agency staff will be disadvantaged. This is an attempt to improve conditions to ensure that everybody has the same pay and conditions. It is only right that there should be no differential across agency staff. This will bring things up to date. We are seeking legal advice and will consult staff to make sure that everybody is happy with the way forward.

Jim Allister (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

As a result of the review of pension arrangements, will agency staff now be treated in accordance with what prevails in the public sector in this jurisdiction, where pensions are linked to the consumer price index (CPI) rather than to the retail price index (RPI)? If that has not happened, when will it happen so that there is parity between the public service and these cross-border bodies?

Michelle O'Neill (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Anybody who works the under the remit of the North/South Ministerial Council in any of its forms should be on the same pension arrangements. There is a disparity, in that some staff, because of legacy pay issues, were not brought in under the scheme at the start. A review is going on at the minute, and legal advice is being sought. All that detail will be reported to the next NSMC meeting, and, at that stage, I am happy to talk to the Member about whether it is CPI or RPI.

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

With your permission, Mr Deputy Speaker, I wish to make a statement on the publication for consultation of the draft strategic framework for public health, 'Fit and Well – Changing Lives 2012-2022'. The framework is of importance to all of us for its potential to make a real difference to the health and well-being of the lives of our communities. The framework reflects a truly cross-cutting agenda, and, therefore, we need real involvement from all parts of government in Northern Ireland. Leadership from all Ministers will be paramount.

'Fit and Well – Changing Lives' seeks to reinvigorate action to improve health and reduce health inequalities. It builds on Investing for Health, the first public health strategy, which was published in 2002. In general, we know that health has been improving. Unfortunately, the rate of improvement has not been the same for everyone. Health outcomes are generally worse in the most deprived areas in Northern Ireland when compared with the region generally. Our state of health and well-being is the result of a complex interaction of influences on everyday life. It is not an accident that those living in different social circumstances experience differences in health, well-being and length of life. It is also clear that many inequalities in health arise because of inequalities in society and the conditions in which we live.

The factors that impact on health and health inequalities do not fall solely within the bailiwick of the Health Department to influence. They include community and social conditions, which, in turn, are influenced by wider political and economic circumstances. Population health also contributes to social outcomes. For example, economic growth improves health, and improved health enhances economic productivity and growth. Working together to secure targeted improvement in the health of the population, especially those most in need and those with the most to gain, is both the right thing to do and an essential priority if we are to limit the growth in the cost to our society and economy of avoidable ill health. Therefore, the proposed new framework will also contribute towards the achievement of a number of goals in the Programme for Government and the economic strategy. The intention is to encourage synergy between the framework and other key government strategies, such as Delivering Social Change.

'Fit and Well – Changing Lives' is a new, overarching framework that has been informed by up-to-date international and national evidence, particularly the Marmot report, 'Fair Society, Healthy Lives'. A review of Investing for Health, the previous strategy for tackling health inequalities, has also informed our thinking. The review reported that much of that strategy’s approach remains relevant: for example, its values, principles and broad aims, and its cross-cutting focus on the broader social factors that impact on health, and those features have been retained. However, the review also recommended that the new strategy should take account of the current socio-economic context.

Although it is proposed that much of the approach advocated by Investing for Health is retained, the draft framework incorporates some new key features. The new strategy is built on the life course approach, which focuses on the social influences on health at every stage of development throughout life from early years. The framework is built on two underpinning themes that encourage interventions that affect health and well-being across the life course.

Engaging and promoting supportive and sustainable communities is an important tool in tackling the issues that affect health inequalities. Sustainable communities is, therefore, an underpinning theme, along with building healthy public policy, which aims to ensure that, at government level, potential health impacts are taken into account as part of the policy development process.

For each of the life course stages and themes, policy aims are identified, and long- and shorter-term outcomes have been agreed with other Departments. Two strategic priorities for tackling health inequalities are proposed. They are early years and supporting vulnerable people and communities.

We have chosen early years because of the now overwhelming evidence internationally that people’s life chances are most heavily influenced by their development in the first years of life: positive and negative influences and impacts on behaviour and on social interaction, as well as on physical health, have consequences that can last a lifetime. If we are to break the cycle of disadvantage across generations, it is vital that our children are given the best possible start in life. That starts from antenatal care and includes childhood development, support for good parenting and opportunities for learning. What happens to children in their earliest years is key to outcomes in adult life, not just in relation to health but also to educational attainment and economic status.

The second strategic priority, support for vulnerable people and communities, continues the focus on those who are disadvantaged. It includes those who live in disadvantaged areas, and population groups who require additional or more specific support, for example those with disabilities. The framework reflects ongoing work across all Departments.

At the same time, the public health framework aims to enhance and add value to work under way or planned. It therefore proposes six priority areas for collaboration. Those areas are still at a developmental stage but have been included to seek views and further input during the consultation period. They are support for families and children — enhanced support through incremental development of targeted and universal programmes; employability — promoting opportunities to gain experience, particularly targeting the young and long-term unemployed; use of space and assets — considering the use of space, including premises, to build community capacity and maximise investment; promoting volunteering; working to ensure that children are equipped for life through achieving life skills; and considering the potential impact of using arts, sports and culture not just on physical activity but on mental health, inclusion, and other benefits.

Given the range of factors that influence health and well-being, partnership working will remain key. The Investing for Health review identified good engagement at local level but disconnection between local and regional implementation. Informed by those findings, the aim will be to promote a whole systems approach by strengthening the connections across policy areas and delivery structures and between regional and local levels.

For policymakers and practitioners, the framework provides strategic direction, to secure more coherence cross-departmentally and cross-sectorally with a focus on upstream interventions to improve health and tackle health inequalities. It should also provide strategic direction for work to be taken in support of this at regional and local levels, with public agencies, local communities and others working in partnership.

It is intended to develop the proposals for implementation and governance by December 2012. Initial proposals in the consultation document include looking more closely at how to link at ministerial Executive level. I propose that the Public Health Agency should lead on regional and local co-ordination, ensuring that partnership arrangements are effectively linked. The priority that the Executive have given is indicated by our commitment in the Programme for Government to increase the proportion of the health budget that is allocated to public health. That will need to be supported by other Departments and agencies, working together with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) to achieve our objectives.

It is in our collective interests, as elected representatives, to ensure that:

“all people are enabled and supported in achieving their full health potential and well-being.”

That is the proposed vision of the framework. Although I believe that the draft framework sets a clear policy direction, it is intended to be a formative document. I am keen to engage with and take the views of a wide range of stakeholders. I therefore ask each and every member of the Assembly to consider the proposals contained in the draft strategic framework for public health, 'Fit and Well — Changing Lives', and help us to change lives, particularly for our young people and those who are most vulnerable.

Sue Ramsey (Sinn Féin, Belfast West)

Go raibh maith agat, a Príomh-LeasCheann Comhairle. I warmly welcome the statement from the Minister. I was around when Investing for Health was published in 2002, and it is something that I kept raising over the years. I commend the Minister for getting to this point on 'Fit and Well — Changing Lives 2012-2022'. I thank him for his earlier briefing, which was important. I highlight the fact that the Health Committee as a whole takes the issue of public health and health inequalities very seriously. We have agreed to carry out a review into health inequalities, focusing particularly on measures that have been effective in other countries and regions. That fits in well with what the Minister has outlined in the statement today. We are keen that the work we do will assist, advise and even contribute to the final strategy produced by the Department.

Will the Minister advise us of the interest and support he has had to date from other Departments and the interest other Ministers have in taking the draft strategy forward? A lot of the issues you highlighted, Minister, are not necessarily health issues. It is other Ministers and communities that need to take responsibility for themselves.

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for the question. I welcome the work that the Health Committee is carrying out. We will give that report due cognisance when it is completed. We will certainly seek to marry that work with the work that we are doing.

We in the Department of Health lead a group on public health. Other Departments are well represented on that group. Separate from that, I have had separate meetings with the Social Development Minister, the Education Minister, the Culture, Arts and Leisure Minister and the Justice Minister. I have also met the junior Ministers. There is a strong body of support for improving public health. There is a very clear correlation between poor public health outcomes, poor educational outcomes and poor employability prospects, and, indeed, that links on through to justice. All those matters tend to be linked. The more we can work together as a Government on the issues, the greater chance there is of us tackling this particular issue and, as a consequence, having a knock-on beneficial effect on a range of other issues, and vice versa. So, if we have better educational outcomes, we will have better health outcomes, linked hand in hand. That will give people who go into the workforce a better chance of employment, which, again, will help us when it comes to justice issues.

Jim Wells (DUP, South Down)

The Minister has highlighted the fact that access to tobacco is one of the reasons for the major health inequalities between deprived areas and the rest of Northern Ireland. What action will the new strategy take to try to reduce the incidence of people consuming tobacco?

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The new strategy is linked to a range of strategies. We published a strategy on tobacco earlier this year, which sets a strategic direction for tobacco control in Northern Ireland over the next 10 years. First of all, we recognise the high prevalence of smoking amongst those in areas of deprivation. About 24% of our population smoke — 25% of men and 23% of women — but that rises to around one third in deprived areas. The Public Health Agency is responsible for developing the action plan to accompany the tobacco strategy, and that plan will contain a number of actions that will be specifically aimed at reducing the prevalence of smoking amongst those living in areas of social or economic deprivation.

Improvements have been made in increasing the number of pregnant women who are accessing smoking cessation services. If we can encourage women and, indeed, their partners to stop smoking before their child is born, we can improve the long-term outcomes for the parents and their children.

Samuel Gardiner (UUP, Upper Bann)

May I first of all thank the Minister for his statement? It is very comprehensive and much welcomed. I know that the Minister will, perhaps, move immediately to put the recommendations in place, but how soon can all the recommendations be achieved?

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Today is the launch of a consultation, and we will want to get feedback from the community. I suspect that much of what we are proposing will be acceptable, but I will also be open to people's ideas on how we can make a real difference as they come forward during the process. Once that consultation is complete, we will move quite quickly to make our final assessment on it and then move this forward as a document. Once that comes into place, it will become a policy for the Department, the Public Health Agency (PHA), the Health and Social Care Board, the trusts and the entirety of the system to implement immediately.

Kieran McCarthy (Alliance, Strangford)

I welcome the Minister's statement this morning, but I have to say that there is very little new in it; we have heard it all before. The Minister talks about two strategic priorities: early years and supporting vulnerable people and communities. It is not so long ago that the House, to a man and woman, was fighting for the very existence of Home-Start, Sure Start and Life Start. Had it not been for that campaign, God knows where those would be. This is something for the Minister to do: tell the Assembly that those things will be funded sufficiently.

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Please come to a question.

Kieran McCarthy (Alliance, Strangford)

We want to show our support for the Public Health Agency, but can the Minister assure the House that that agency will be properly funded to ensure that what he is talking about on these two pages will be fulfilled? I doubt it.

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The problem for the Member is that whenever it comes to public health, it is not something new. There is no magic bullet out there. The truth is that there were too many people smoking 10 years ago, and there are still too many people smoking. If it were down to 5%, there would still be too many people smoking. There are too many people drinking alcohol to excess and binge drinking. That was the case 10 years ago, and it is still the case. There are too many obese people and too many people not eating enough fruit and vegetables. That was the case many years ago, and it is still the case.

This is not a sprint; it is a marathon. The Member may think that he has some magic transformational trick. Given that this is a consultation, I look forward to hearing from the Alliance Party all the answers to the difficult questions that are being posed. We will look forward to its contribution and read it in-depth, because it appears that it knows all the answers that we have missed. I lay down that challenge. We will be coming back to the House with the final document, and I am sure that the Alliance Party will have made a major contribution to that final document in producing the right answers to the questions.

Paula Bradley (DUP, Belfast North)

I thank the Minister for what I believe is a very positive statement this afternoon. In the statement, he talked about the two strategic priorities of early years and supporting vulnerable people and communities, as my colleague said. In our communities, we have very many young vulnerable people. To the best of my knowledge, the strategy for sexual health is due to end soon. Will the Minister please tell me what he is doing to address teenage pregnancy and teenage parenthood?

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I am very glad to say that the rate of teenage pregnancy has reduced quite significantly over the past 10 years. However, the rate of teenage pregnancy in neighbourhood renewal areas is over twice as high as the regional rate, sitting at around 6·2 births for every thousand. We need to be very cognisant of the issue, because sexual health is just as important as mental health and, indeed, physical health. People need to look after their sexual health and recognise that they should behave responsibly.

The PHA has been asked to renew the focus on addressing teenage pregnancy through the Sexual Health Improvement Network. It is also working with partners in the Department of Education, Youth Service, voluntary groups and faith groups to support the development of relationship and sexual education programmes in all settings. I think that it is very important that we put "relationship" back into sexual education.

Mickey Brady (Sinn Féin, Newry and Armagh)

Go raibh maith agat, a LeasCheann Comhairle. I thank the Minister for his statement. Minister, you talked about the second strategic priority — support for vulnerable people and communities. You said:

"It includes those who live in disadvantaged areas, and population groups who require additional or more specific support, for example, those with disabilities."

Will the Minister comment on the impact of benefit cuts, particularly on groups of disadvantaged people and people with various disabilities? From a benefits point of view, support will largely be withdrawn from large groups of vulnerable people.

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Benefit cuts are a concern for us. I am deeply concerned about what has happened at national government level, where we have the Conservative Party, in association with the Liberal Democrats, voting through cuts. The Liberal Democrat party is the sister party of the Alliance Party, which is crying "shame" about benefit cuts. The reality here in Northern Ireland is that we will feel the impact of that. Should we not administer what is being done in Westminster, we will have to find hundreds of millions by stripping money from education, health, regional development and every other Department in order to meet the cuts that the Conservative-Lib Dem alliance is imposing on the people of Northern Ireland.

Gordon Dunne (DUP, North Down)

I thank the Minister for his statement. What is he doing to tackle the ever-increasing problem of drugs and alcohol abuse?

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Alcohol and drugs have a real impact on the lives of individuals, families and, indeed, wider communities. The new strategic direction for alcohol and drugs phase 2 was launched in January this year to prevent and address the harm related to alcohol and drugs. The strategy recognises specifically the need to address health inequalities and to take forward actions in areas most at risk.

The amount that people in different groups drink is a key issue. For example, 70% of those in managerial and professional positions exceed the daily guidelines at least once a week, compared with 84% of manual workers. Binge drinking — consuming 10 units or more of alcohol in one session for males or 7 units for females — is more common among routine and manual workers at 36%, compared with 23% of those in the managerial and professional field. That will obviously lead to greater harm being suffered by those in the most deprived areas. Alcohol- and drug-related deaths, and admissions to hospital in those areas are around double the Northern Ireland average and three to four times the rates in the least deprived areas. The same pattern is likely to hold for drug misuse.

People sometimes say that cannabis is not a bad drug. Cannabis is a bad drug. We have seen evidence, even in recent days, of the impact that it has on people's brain development. From my Department's perspective, I have to say very clearly that we really need to reduce the usage of alcohol and drugs, illicit and prescribed, in Northern Ireland if we are to significantly improve people's mental health.

All those drugs, whether alcohol or the other drugs, are doing people real harm. Therefore, we need to challenge that. One area we are looking at is minimum pricing for alcohol. Again, we are working closely with our colleagues in the Department for Social Development (DSD) and, indeed, keeping a very close watching brief on what is happening in Scotland and the Republic of Ireland on moving that issue forward.

Jonathan Craig (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Minister for his very positive statement. Will he comment on the clear link that has been shown between health issues and poor educational achievement in socially deprived areas? That issue was clearly highlighted in a local report done between Barnardo's and Resurgam in Lisburn recently. Will the Minister outline what talks he has had with the Education Minister to move this whole issue forward?

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Certainly, the linkage between poor educational outcomes and poor health outcomes is very close, which will not come as a surprise to anyone. So, we are identifying that people are having poor educational outcomes. The Barnardo's report, in conjunction with the Public Health Agency, has been able to put some meat on the bones.

For example, when you are getting areas where you have up to 30% truancy or 75% of the mothers are single mothers, where 50% of them smoke during pregnancy, and where you are getting children at the other end leaving school with next to no qualifications, it should not come as a surprise to anyone. That is why we do think that more needs to be done in those early years; more needs to be done in the deprived communities to assist. If the Department of Education and the Department of Health cannot work together on these issues to make a real, tangible difference to the people of Northern Ireland, they will have failed.

I have had conversations with Minister O'Dowd on these issues. It is a course of work that both Ministers will need to drive forward to remove the silo walls that can very often appear between Departments and even within Departments in order to ensure that we get outcomes that will be to the wider benefit of our communities.

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Minister for today's statement. The Minister will be aware of the Early Intervention Lisburn project that he launched recently. In the course of the work that was taken forward by that community group, there was a clear demonstration that, to secure community buy-in to the process, community groups are key to driving forward all this change. It is not just something that comes from on high — from government — and is forced upon people, but actually the community will buy into it. So, in that respect, where does the Minister envisage a role in DSD in encouraging that community capacity?

Secondly, in all this, the investment required will need to be reprofiled where it needs to be front-loaded and, obviously, in this particular project bids will come in for substantial amounts of resources. So, how will the Government reprofile the current spend to ensure that early intervention can really work and be funded?

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The Member has put his finger on something that is a bit of a conundrum — a real difficulty for people who are in the Government and, indeed, for the Civil Service — in that it is obvious to us that we need to make an investment if we are not to keep replicating the same mistakes. We need to challenge where we are now. That can be very difficult to do whenever there are demands that need to be met now.

Nonetheless, we have to continue to focus on public health. I know that, for example, the Chief Medical Officer in Scotland gave up practising as a surgeon to go into public health because he believed that he was only fixing problems that could have been avoided in the first instance. We as a Government — not me as a Minister of Health, but we as a Government — need to take the decision that, yes, we are going to invest for the future and, yes, to invest for the future will mean that we will not deliver some of the services that we can currently deliver but we will make a real and meaningful difference to the next generation and generations thereafter if we do that.

That is the challenge, and I am up for it. It will be up to Members to ask whether other Ministers are up to the challenge.

Jim Allister (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

The strategic framework speaks of many laudable aspirations during the life cycle. The pre-birth stage is identified, but little is said about it. Will the Minister give an assurance that, from the moment of conception, the focus will be on the preservation of life, including for those with disabilities? Will he also give assurances that, far from any steps being taken to facilitate life-destroying abortion, his long-awaited guidelines will underscore the priority of the preservation of life and that truly accountable record-keeping will be put in place and the reasons for the termination of pregnancy recorded, so that the data will be transparent and clear to all?

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The Member has moved slightly off course, but I do not have a particular difficulty in answering the question. One of the reasons why I am thankful that the Assembly exists — I know that the Member would prefer that it did not exist — is that many of our direct rule masters were very keen to introduce abortion in this part of the United Kingdom, the only area where abortion on demand is not available. Although since 1967, 6·4 million abortions have taken place in England, Scotland and Wales, which is deplorable, we in Northern Ireland are not in those circumstances. It is because we have the Northern Ireland Assembly, which the Member so objects to, that we do not have abortion on demand. Had we listened to him, we may well have had abortion on demand, but, thankfully, the people did not listen.

Steven Agnew (Green, North Down)

I welcome the emphasis in the Minister's statement on early years. He will be aware of my private Member's Bill, which seeks to improve the co-ordination of early years delivery. I hope that he and his party will support it.

The Minister highlighted health inequalities in deprived areas and the disadvantage that those who live in such areas face. He linked that to income. Unfortunately, he suggested that economic growth improves health inequalities, but research does not back that up. In fact, in the period of economic growth that we had until the current recession, inequalities in wealth and health increased. Does the Minister believe that the Executive as a whole are doing enough to tackle the economic inequality that leads to health inequality? How can we do that given that, in an answer to me, OFMDFM —

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Question.

Steven Agnew (Green, North Down)

— stated that information on wealth inequality is available only for GB? How can we tackle inequalities in income and health if we do not measure them?

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The Member is almost suggesting that we should keep everyone in an economic morass because that would ensure that we have a better distribution of inequalities. I would much prefer that people have the opportunity to get employment and the appropriate education to enable them to get jobs and to be attractive to employers that come to Northern Ireland. I would also prefer it if people did not object to every planning application, which could bring jobs to this country and this region, and focused on delivering a good and sustainable economy in Northern Ireland. All of that is positive.

I note the Member's piece of work, but I have to say that he does not have to create legislation to get me to work with other Ministers. That comes naturally, and we have to work with other Ministers and colleagues.

This is a health strategy; it is not an economic strategy. I will give the lead on health issues, and Minister Foster will give the lead on economic issues. However, the fact is that although the Member said that it did not demonstrate health inequalities, for every percentage that unemployment goes up, the incidence of suicide goes up by 0·9%. I am not sure where the Member gets his statistics from, but I am very clear that we need to have a stronger Northern Ireland economy. When we have that, we will have more to invest in our health services to ensure that we get the best outcomes for people.

Conall McDevitt (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast South)

I welcome the Minister's beginning-of-session reminder to us all to get back in shape and do what we all do after the holidays. What absolute guarantee will the Minister give us that this is not like a New Year's resolution, whereby we say all the right things at the beginning of the session and then slowly, during that session, forget what we said? Specifically, will the Minister tell me how much more he thinks that his Department should be investing in public health to be able to realise even the most basic of the ambitions set out in the very good consultation paper?

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I have to say that the Member's point is fair. Often, we come here with very great and noble aspirations and a real commitment to get things done but, as time moves on, other things take our attention, and we do not give the same focus to the issues that we have just discussed. However, we have a Public Health Agency, and I am very supportive of it. Its current allocation is £81 million for the year 2012-13. Is that enough? To be honest, I would love to invest considerably more in public health. Currently, the Department spends around £4·5 billion. How do we make the savings elsewhere to enable us to put more money into public health? That is the challenge that we need to work towards. So when Members challenge me about the cuts that I will make in one area or another, I might remind them that it is necessary if we are to invest more in other things. If we have a budget that is pretty flat, we have to reduce budgets in other areas. So that will also happen throughout the year. I remind the Member that, when we make cuts, we do so to enable us to invest more in other services in the Health Department.

Pam Brown (DUP, South Antrim)

I welcome the Minister's statement and his answers to the questions so far. What monitoring will take place to ensure that there is progress as a result of the strategy?

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The data and research group has been established to identify a set of high-level indicators. That will facilitate our monitoring of progress on the outcomes of the framework and the wider health outcomes over time. Those indicators will also be included in the final framework. That is absolutely necessary because we could easily spend a lot of money on public health without identifying that we have achieved outcomes. It is essential that we are able to identify the outcomes associated with the investment of resource.

Mervyn Storey (DUP, North Antrim)

I welcome the Minister's statement to the House and also the commitment by the Public Health Agency in areas such as those that my colleagues referred to in Lisburn and also now in my North Antrim constituency. That engagement with the Public Health Agency has been extremely positive, and I thank the Minister for it.

The Minister raised the issues of disadvantaged communities and early years when outlining the framework. I wish him more success than the Education Minister with early years, because that strategy in the Department of Education is in a shambles. On the transition point from the 0-3 age group, from health to education —

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Question?

Mervyn Storey (DUP, North Antrim)

Will the Minister ensure that the transition from early years is a very clear focus of this framework? We must ensure that those early years are appropriately dealt with.

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

It is essential that the transition from early years is appropriately dealt with. We need to focus on ensuring that we have as close a correlation as possible between the two Departments. Sometimes, I suspect that the problem is not with the Ministers but with the civil servants.

Again, we as Ministers need to stamp our authority on behalf of the Assembly so that if we want something to happen and are certain that it is the right thing to do, we do not allow processes to get in the way of outcomes. If we need to adapt, change or challenge processes, so be it, but we need to get to the outcomes. If we have identified that, for example, children who are involved in serious adverse incidents in their early years are far more likely to have suicide ideation at a later point in their life, it is critical, from my perspective, that social services are more effective and are working really closely with people in education to identify and deal with those problems. It is also critical to ensure that children are getting the right nourishment and the appropriate care and that parents, including many young parents, who wish to do the right thing, receive the appropriate education in parenting. It is vital to ensure that children receive appropriate nurture, with parents setting a child on their knee and doing a simple thing such as reading to them, for example. Those are all simple things that are critical to our future and that can make a real, meaningful change in those children's futures.

Roy Beggs (UUP, East Antrim)

The Minister touched on absenteeism. In some areas, up to 30% of young people are referred to the educational welfare officer. Does the Minister agree that fresh thinking is required in a range of Departments to address that? It may be to do with engagement with the parents, which he alluded to, but it could also be about the curriculum that is mandated. Greater flexibility may be required to ensure that young people are enticed into and attracted to education so that they can learn, contribute and better themselves.

Edwin Poots (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I want to be cautious that I do not move on to territory that is not really mine to answer on, but I will make it very clear that a lot of the problems that will appear in the justice system, in schools and that teachers will encounter — for example, people criticise schools as failed schools — are not about the education but about the parenting. If the parenting is wrong at the outset, you will encounter problems all over the place, and we as a society will have to pay for those problems. In my own city, regrettably, a young man with disabilities was badly beaten in the past week. In the past few weeks, a dog was set on fire. What sort of people in our society do those things? You have to ask what way those kids were brought up in the first place. I was certainly brought up in an environment where I would never have considered doing those things. I suspect that that is the case for the vast majority of the House — hopefully all of it. We as a society need to get parenting right in the first instance. Some people just do not have the skills and need help. Some people are beyond help, and we need to intervene in those instances. It clearly falls to my Department, through social services, to take action where things are wrong. I think that truancy and all those things will play their part at a later point, but those are just symptoms of the problems that happened in those early years.

Private Members' Business

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

The Business Committee has agreed to allow up to one hour and 30 minutes for the debate. The proposer will have 10 minutes to propose the motion and 10 minutes to make a winding-up speech. All other Members who wish to speak will have five minutes.

Seán Rogers (Social Democratic and Labour Party, South Down)

I beg to move

That this Assembly unites in its support for world suicide prevention day; and endorses the recommendations contained in the Protect Life strategy to develop a cross-departmental framework to assist the community and voluntary sectors in suicide prevention.

Thank you, Mr Principal Deputy Speaker, and I thank all parties for allowing this to be the first debate of our new term.

As well as thinking about what is happening outside, I think that it is important to have this debate in the Chamber today. My first experience of suicide was almost 20 years ago, when a relative died. I had the task of breaking the news to his young children to tell them that daddy would not be coming back. Last night, I attended a Mass for a relation who died in New Zealand. When I and every Member in the Chamber visit our graveyards, we see evidence of many young people and parents who have taken their own life.

As I was travelling to Newry one day a few weeks ago, I met a lady walking on the road who was wearing a T-shirt with the phrase "Ban suicide websites" on it. The lady is Patti Boyle. She lives in London but has roots in south Down. She is walking from the grave of her son in Burren in south Down to London. Some time ago, her son took his own life in London. His body was found 100 days later. When she and her husband were trying to tidy up his bits and pieces, they discovered that he had visited a website from which he bought a kit to assist him in his suicide.

This is an extremely important debate. The facts about suicide are, quite simply, that it is the third biggest cause of death after heart disease and cancer. More people die in Northern Ireland through suicide than in road-traffic accidents. In Ireland, two people die every day. A suicidal person may not ask for help, but that does not mean that help is not wanted. Suicide prevention starts with recognising the warning signs and taking them seriously.

Let us dispel the myths about suicide. The first myth is that people who talk about suicide will not really do it. That is false. Almost everyone who attempts suicide has given some clue or warning. Do not ignore suicidal threats. Statements such as, "I cannot see any way out of this", no matter how casually or jokingly said, may indicate serious suicidal feelings.

Secondly, if a person is determined to kill himself or herself, nothing will stop them. That is false. Even the most severely depressed person has mixed feelings about death, wavering until the very last moment between wanting to live and wanting to die. Most suicidal people do not want death; they want the pain to stop. The impulse to end it all, however overpowering, does not last for ever.

Thirdly, the idea that people who commit suicide are unwilling to seek help is, again, false. Studies of suicide victims show that more than half of them sought medical help in the six months prior to their death. The final myth is that talking about suicide may give someone the idea. Again, that is false. The opposite is true: bringing up the subject of suicide may give someone the permission to tell you how he or she really feels. People who have come through such a crisis say that it is a huge relief to talk about how they feel. When people start talking, they have a better chance of discussing options other than suicide. If you think that a friend or family member is considering suicide, you may be afraid to bring up the subject, but talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can save a life.

We all have a part to play in preventing suicide. We in the Assembly must continue to ensure that every aspect of the Protect Life strategy is delivered, especially those areas on which there is still a lot of work to do. First, to restrict access to means and methods of suicide, we must recognise that cyberbullying is becoming a major problem and address the issue. Internet and social media can have a positive influence on suicide prevention. We must eliminate the negatives, so websites that assist suicide, such as those that helped Patti's son to end his life, must be closed down.

We need to make suicide and self-harm training a priority for all our emergency services. We must develop a culture of help-seeking for those in high-risk occupations. The Executive must ensure that the health impact assessment of all policies is a priority for all Departments and all statutory bodies. Finally, we must develop mental health care services that actively seek out those recently released from custody.

There are also small things that would help, including more early intervention for cases of anxiety and greater access to counselling. Another little thing would be to make the Lifeline number freely accessible to all callers, irrespective of whether they are calling on a landline or a mobile, across the island. In Kilkeel and right around the border counties, we are subject to roaming charges. Crises do not occur just when we have landlines: having no roaming charges may save a life.

We also need to restore funding for the wraparound services of complementary therapies — the befriending and mentoring. Currently, funding is available only for counselling, but voluntary suicide prevention organisations need all the help that they can get. Every one of us can make a difference. We need to look for the warning signs: the statements about hopelessness; the loss of interest in things that one cares about; giving things away and, maybe, setting one's affairs in order. We must listen actively. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Stigma and silence can prevent saving a life.

In our offices and everywhere else, we need to promote the links to help that are out there, whether the health service, Lifeline, PIPS, Cruse, the Samaritans, Contact Youth or any of the many others that are in this Building today. I acknowledge the great work that all those organisations do. Really, the message is: if in doubt, act. Most people who die by suicide do not want to die; they just want to stop hurting. Talking about it, highlighting suicide awareness, ensuring that the Protect Life strategy is fully implemented and doing the small things can make a difference. We can all help to reduce the hurt. In ending the silence, we help to stop the stigma.

The debate stood suspended.

Oral Answers to Questions

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Questions 9 and 10 have been withdrawn and will require written answers.

Cathal Boylan (Sinn Féin, Newry and Armagh)

1. asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on her efforts to improve access to high-speed broadband and mobile phone coverage in rural areas of Newry and Armagh. (AQO 2357/11-15)

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

My Department has contributed to improved access and quality of broadband services in rural areas across Northern Ireland, including Newry and Armagh. Under the Next Generation Broadband Services contract, some £19·8 million of government and EU funding leveraged £31 million of private sector investment, resulting in the highest level of fibre-to-the-cabinet technology in the United Kingdom. Alternative broadband services are available through high-specification satellite services or high-speed fixed-wireless services.

Building on its previous investments, my Department is scoping two projects, which are aimed at further enhancing the region's telecommunications capabilities by ensuring access to broadband services of at least two megabits per second to all premises and improving access to 3G mobile services. Under the proposed 3G mobile project, my Department aims to reduce the percentage of premises in Northern Ireland with no 3G coverage from any operator from the current level of 11·7% to at least the UK average of 0·9%.

Cathal Boylan (Sinn Féin, Newry and Armagh)

Go raibh maith agat, a LeasCheann Comhairle. I thank the Minister for her answer. I am well aware that there has been a lot of money invested in broadband provision. Does the Minister intend to carry out an assessment of those firms that have received money to provide broadband in rural areas? Clearly, that provision is not there, and I know that from some of the firms that I have dealt with. I would like an assessment of that. Also, how much more money is available to address the gaps in rural broadband provision?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

Of course, any company that receives government money is assessed after the end of the contract to see whether it has delivered the targets that were set in the terms of reference. That is exactly what will happen with the sixth call for Onwave, if that is what the Member is referring to, as has happened with all the other companies.

We will continue to fill that gap. The Member knows that we have been working very hard in respect of that. In its latest research, Ofcom estimates that 94% of households could access a super fast broadband service of 30 megabits per second or better. It is important that we benchmark that against what is happening in the Republic of Ireland, where the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources estimates that just over 20% of households have access to a service of 10 megabits. So, things are a lot better in Northern Ireland in respect of broadband access. That does not take away from the fact that there is more that we can do, and we will be doing more in the future.

I am quite happy to say to the Member that we are accessing money from the UK for broadband infill, but, unfortunately, because we were so far ahead of other parts of the UK, we are now being penalised and are not getting as much money as we should be to follow up with broadband projects. However, we will keep fighting that battle.

There has been a lot achieved in respect of broadband provision, but there is more to do.

Dominic Bradley (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Newry and Armagh)

Go raibh míle maith agat, a LeasCheann Comhairle. Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire as ucht a freagra. I thank the Minister for her answer. Can she give us an assurance that the stated target of 95% indoor coverage for 4G services will be met in all areas of Northern Ireland?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

This is the first time that a Northern Ireland target has been set for mobile services. Part of our difficulty with 2G and 3G was that the target was set at a UK level, and it was only because of lobbying by myself and others that we now have a Northern Ireland target. That is a target that will apply right across Northern Ireland. It is a very high target, and I am pleased that it is a high target, but it is a Northern Ireland target. That is the difference, because, in the past, we have just had UK targets, and we have suffered as a result.

Sandra Overend (UUP, Mid Ulster)

I refer the Minister to the Westminster Government's announcement in their Budget about the improvement of mobile network signals in specific areas of Northern Ireland. What discussions has she had with the Westminster Government on that issue? Will she remind the House of the details of that announcement and the expected timings for the realisation of improvements?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

We have ongoing and very good relations with our counterparts at Westminster. Indeed, I pay tribute to the former Minister of State for Northern Ireland, Hugo Swire, who was very helpful in the negotiations with colleagues in the Department for Culture, Media and Sport at Westminster.

The plan is that we will get in the region of £6·6 million out of the fund. I had hoped, as I said in my answer to Mr Boylan's supplementary question, that we would have had in and around £10 million. We have been able to secure only £6·6 million, but I believe genuinely that that is because our broadband coverage is so far ahead of other parts of the United Kingdom. We should not be penalised like that; we should be encouraged to go further, better and higher. That is certainly what we plan to do under our telecommunications action plan.

Robin Swann (UUP, North Antrim)

2. asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what action she is taking to develop genealogical tourism through the promotion of Ulster-Scots culture, language and heritage. (AQO 2358/11-15)

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

There is potential to develop genealogical tourism through the promotion of Ulster Scots, particularly in the United States, where we have targeted this specific segment through Tourism Ireland's extensive marketing programme. I recently launched a free app that will help Northern Ireland to harness the tourism potential of the 30 million people worldwide who have Ulster-Scots roots.

Our tourism bodies continue to engage with the Ulster Historical Foundation, the UIster-Scots Agency, the Orange Order and other agencies and bodies in Northern Ireland with a view to ensuring that all aspects of Ulster-Scots culture and heritage are reflected in our tourism offering.

Robin Swann (UUP, North Antrim)

I thank the Minister for her answer. I am sure that she will agree that, as well as genealogy, piping and drumming is a major strand of Ulster-Scots culture that could be used as a potential tourism attraction. Has she any plans to further develop the piping and drumming successes that we saw over the summer, when the European championships were held here and in the world championships, so that we can use them as another way of attracting tourism to Northern Ireland?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

I thank the Member for his supplementary question. I declare an interest as the vice-president of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association.

NITB received an application for funding for the 2011 European pipe band championships, and I was very pleased that the Tourist Board was able to support that. I am sure that the Member was as disappointed as I was that we were not able to secure the European championships again and that they are moving back to Scotland next year for another three-year cycle. However, I want to say how proud I was of our pipe bands when I saw that the Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band from Lisburn had won its eighth world championship title this year. As well as that, we had two other world champions: grade 3B was won by Ballybriest, while grade 4B was won by Clogher and District, which, of course, gave me particular pleasure. We also had Northern Ireland winners in three drum major grades.

We have a very proud pipe band history, culture and heritage, and I pay tribute to the pipe bands for the work that they do, free of charge, to introduce young people to music and culture across Northern Ireland. We want to support pipe bands in any way that we can. We recognise that they bring visitors into areas for their competitions, and I hope that we can work with the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure to develop that more.

Michelle McIlveen (DUP, Strangford)

I thank the Minister for her answers so far. She mentioned specifically the potential for developing genealogical tourism through the promotion of Ulster Scots in the United States. What work is her Department doing to fulfil that potential?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

I thank the Member for her question. Tourism Ireland has, in recent years, specifically targeted this segment with extensive marketing programmes as part of its ongoing high-profile marketing activity, promoting Northern Ireland as a compelling holiday destination.

Last year, it ran an Ulster-Scots campaign entitled 'Come home to Northern Ireland this year', which reached up to three million people of Ulster-Scots origin in the southern states of the US through advertisements in specialist publications with strong Ulster-Scots demographics, online advertising and direct marketing focusing on Northern Ireland family names and ancestries and activity with the Smithsonian Channel. As well as that, they attend and will have a presence this year at the Stone Mountain Highland Games, which take place in Georgia. It attracts over 80,000 visitors of Scots and Scots-Irish descent during a two-day festival. We will be present there as well.

We continue to work with all the agencies. Those of you who have the time to do so should look at the new Ulster-Scots app for your iPad and iPhone, which we have launched recently. It has four driving tours: Londonderry and Donegal is one; there is one in north Antrim; and there are two in County Fermanagh. Members should spend some time in having a look at that.

Phil Flanagan (Sinn Féin, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

I was disappointed with the Minister because, until just now, she had not referenced Fermanagh in her discussion on the Ulster-Scots app. Of course, we all know that she went to Lisnaskea to launch it. I was surprised that she did not mention that until now.

When we are talking about genealogy, will the Minister provide the House with an update on her discussions with her counterpart in the Dublin Government, Leo Varadkar, regarding the potential benefits to the local economy of "The Gathering" of 2013 taking place on a 32-county basis?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

I will answer that question when I come to it. It is number 11 or 12 on the list.

Michael McGimpsey (UUP, Belfast South)

3. asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for her assessment of how the continued lack of agreement on a reduction in corporation tax might affect her Department's job creation strategy and targets. (AQO 2359/11-15)

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

My Department's PFG target is to contribute to rising levels of employment by directly supporting the promotion of over 25,000 new jobs. I am pleased to say that, already, approximately 7,000 jobs have been promoted. I am confident that this target will be achieved irrespective of the outcome on corporation tax. That having been said, corporation tax is a powerful economic tool that has the potential to help us in our aim to transform the local economy. We are still pressing for the devolution of this power, and a further ministerial meeting is due to take place before the end of September 2012. Once the outcome of this work is known, the Executive will reassess and, if necessary, strengthen the ambitious nature of their economic goals.

Michael McGimpsey (UUP, Belfast South)

Bearing in mind an unemployment rate of around 66,000 people, does the Minister believe that there are other measures that she can take currently, irrespective of any anticipated reduction in corporation tax, which is looking very slow? When does she think she can put other measures in place, and how much of a reduction does she anticipate seeing from the figure of 66,000?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

If I knew how much of a reduction there would be to the unemployment register, I would have a crystal ball in front of me. We all want to see a reduction in unemployment. The House is united on that matter. Invest Northern Ireland has just informed me this week of its comprehensive plan to work with a lot of our indigenous companies.

Across the UK, we have seen a flattening out, indeed a depression going back into a recession, over the past number of months, and there is a great need to work with our local firms to give them the capacity to employ more people. I am pleased to say that we have seen that across Northern Ireland. We have small companies that are increasing their employment, and I am very pleased to say that we are able to support them. Last week, I announced 70 new jobs at TES in Cookstown. Over the summer, we were able to announce a new package in Moyola Precision Engineering that safeguarded 20 jobs and meant 15 new jobs. Taxi and Bus Conversions in Dungannon is taking on 20 new staff. Benny O'Hanlon at Todds Leap Activity Centre is taking on 10 new staff. Across Northern Ireland, indigenous companies are working away and are taking on staff, bit by bit, and we want to support them as much as we can.

We are in a difficult place economically, and I do not think that there is anybody who can say that this is not a global recession that has gone on for far longer than people projected. However, we, in Northern Ireland, have to get alongside our indigenous companies and give them all the help and support that we can.

Patsy McGlone (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Mid Ulster)

Go raibh maith agat, a LeasCheann Comhairle. I place on record my thanks to the Minister for her involvement with TES in helping to support the creation of new jobs in my constituency.

As far as the devolution of corporation tax and its implications for the North are concerned, has the Department done any assessment of the beneficial consequences that such devolution might have for the local economy?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

We have had a few independent analyses taking into account what it would mean for the Northern Ireland economy. The economic advisory group has provided very strong evidence that it would give us the step change that we need in relation to employment, and that would make a real difference. Invest Northern Ireland has carried out detailed work on what it would mean for foreign direct investment, and, looking at the local economy, it really will be a case of a rising tide lifting all boats. It will mean more money in the economy in higher wages, and it will also mean that smaller companies will be able to get into the supply chain of larger companies, thereby allowing them to grow as well.

We have seen a lot of evidence. I do not think that there is any argument about the difference that a lower rate of corporation tax could make to Northern Ireland. Now, we just have to persuade the Treasury to devolve that power as soon as possible.

Robin Newton (DUP, Belfast East)

I know that the subject of corporation tax is dear to the Minister's heart and she sees it, perhaps, as another tool in her toolbox to help attract, in particular, inward investment to the Province. When he was Secretary of State, Owen Paterson was also a keen supporter of the devolution of corporation tax powers for the same reasons as the Minister.

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Can we have a question, please?

Robin Newton (DUP, Belfast East)

Owen Paterson has now moved on, and we have seen the appointment of Theresa Villiers. Does the Minister see Theresa Villiers being as helpful as Owen Paterson?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

I thank the Member for his question. I would like to place on record my thanks to Owen Paterson for helping to put the devolution of corporation tax powers back on the agenda of the UK Government and, indeed, for working with us on the proposals that are now being discussed. Of course, I wish him every success as Environment Secretary.

I also wish to congratulate the new Secretary of State. We look forward to working with her on a range of issues of significance to the local economy. Of course, corporation tax is at the very top of that list, but there are other areas, such as regional aid, investment and tourism. We look forward to meeting her in the very near future. I very much hope that she will support us fully in our efforts to drive the local economy forward using a lower rate of corporation tax to accelerate the economic growth that everybody in the House so desires.

Daithí McKay (Sinn Féin, North Antrim)

There are clear indications that the British Chancellor's economic policies are slowing down growth across the board, and we now know that the tax take is down, with a lower return in corporation tax being part of the reason for that. Will the Minister indicate whether she has any read-in to those figures for the North? Does she agree that the British Finance Minister is deploying the wrong economic policies for this economy and for job creation here?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

It is worth reflecting on the progress. Sometimes the House looks at the negative aspects in relation to corporation tax. Yes, it has taken us a long time to get to where we are today, but progress has been made on a number of work streams, for example on economic impacts, and, although we and the Treasury will probably never fully agree, there has been substantial movement by the Treasury to better acknowledge the scale of possible benefits in jobs and investments. There remain significant differences on the cost of a reduction in the rate of corporation tax, and those have yet to be resolved, but we will continue to push very hard on that.

As regards our Chancellor of the Exchequer, it is not my job to tell him how to do his job, any more than it is his job to tell me how to do mine.

Gregory Campbell (DUP, East Londonderry)

4. asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what job creation opportunities can be developed by promoting golf tourism on the Causeway Coast. (AQO 2360/11-15)

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

Finding the answer to question 4, as opposed to question 5, would be good.

The success of our golfers continues, with Rory McIlroy cementing his world number one status with his PGA Championship win last month, the Deutsche Bank Championship victory last week and, just last night, his BMW Championship win in Indiana. These wins, alongside the extensive positive media coverage received around the world through hosting the Irish Open, have increased Northern Ireland's profile as a major visitor and golf destination and for inward investment. Royal Portrush attracts golfers from all over the world. Forward bookings as a result of the Irish Open are very healthy, with the course practically fully booked until the end of 2012. Royal Portrush has also applied to host the British Amateur Championship in 2014. Maximising the economic benefit from golf also depends on the supporting infrastructure. The Bushmills dunes golf resort will bring an estimated 360 jobs to the area.

Golf is of great interest to many senior business executives. Northern Ireland's courses and the opportunity to play them can be a significant quality-of-life factor during inward investment visits. The Irish Open, in particular, was used to attract senior international business executives to visit Northern Ireland. The senior management team of Olenick and Associates from Chicago came to the Irish Open and chose the occasion to announce its new project for 55 jobs.

Events such as the Irish Open and the development of golf tourism are key towards meeting the ambitious target of over 50,000 jobs sustained in tourism by 2020.

Gregory Campbell (DUP, East Londonderry)

I thank the Minister for all the work that she and her Department put in during the run-up to the Irish Open and its success in Portrush this summer. In the context of promoting jobs and golf tourism in Northern Ireland, I ask her to take account of the views of a number of traders who expressed concern that, when spectators arrived and went into the tournament, they were, unfortunately, unable to avail themselves of many of the sites and shops of Portrush until the tournament closed. Will she take account of that when she negotiates and deals with incoming tour operators to promote all of Northern Ireland and its tourist infrastructure when such events take place?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

I thank the Member for his supplementary question. He and others have raised the issue with me previously. The Irish Open was a phenomenal success. I recognise the fact that some traders did not have the retail experience that they thought they would have during the tournament. However, since then, Portrush has experienced a renewal — a revival, if you like. Many people who visited Portrush over the summer have told me that they think that the place has been transformed. A lot of work went into the area before the Irish Open. Its legacy is that people visit Portrush now and rightly so. I spent some of my summer holiday in Portrush and the north coast. It was a very enjoyable experience.

The important thing is that we were able to bring record crowds to Northern Ireland for the Irish Open; in fact, its attendance was double that of the Scottish Open. That really puts it into context.

John Dallat (Social Democratic and Labour Party, East Londonderry)

I am absolutely delighted that the Minister spent some of her holiday in Portrush. I am sure that she thoroughly enjoyed it.

Does the Minister agree that retention of the Giant's Causeway's UNESCO world heritage site status is absolutely critical to the long-term sustainable development of tourism in that part of the causeway?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

As someone who has some knowledge of UNESCO, I can tell the Member that that is not an issue that will materialise. There is no threat to the Giant's Causeway's UNESCO world heritage site status. People who say that there is actually cause more problems than anything else.

Mike Nesbitt (UUP, Strangford)

I join the Minister in congratulating Rory McIlroy on a most phenomenal run of success. Does she share my surprise that, when the words "Rory McIlroy" are typed into the search box on the Discover Northern Ireland website, the response is this:

"We're sorry. No matches were found"?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

I am surprised at that. The Member must have a lot of time to type such things; it seems to be a recurring theme with him. If he has any technological expertise that could help the Northern Ireland Tourist Board to remedy that, I am sure that the board would be happy to speak to him.

Golf tourism currently generates £14 million a year for the economy in Northern Ireland. The key issue is that golf tourists normally spend £300 to £450 per visitor. That is significantly higher than for any other type of tourist. Therefore, we are, of course, working hard to get more golf tourists to come to Northern Ireland.

Oliver McMullan (Sinn Féin, East Antrim)

Go raibh maith agat, a LeasCheann Comhairle. I agree with the Minister that golfing is a major tourist attraction. What worries me is that the other part of the brand name is being left out totally. It is the "Causeway Coast and Glens". Indeed —

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

May we have a question, please?

Oliver McMullan (Sinn Féin, East Antrim)

Will promotion of golfing in the area include its full brand name of "Causeway Coast and Glens"?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

I am not sure whether the Member realises that, a short time ago, I was with Causeway Coast and Glens to help it to promote its new strategy. I have no difficulty in continuing to support Causeway Coast and Glens in its tremendous work.

Trevor Clarke (DUP, South Antrim)

5. asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how much funding Invest NI has provided for south Antrim over the last three years. (AQO 2361/11-15)

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

Between 1 April 2009 and 31 March 2012, Invest NI offered assistance or funding of £21·4 million to businesses in the South Antrim constituency, including £7 million to externally owned businesses. Since the start of the Boosting Business campaign in November 2011, Invest NI has added 114 prospective projects worth £4·4 million of support in the south Antrim area. These are at various stages of development and have the potential to generate £21 million of investment for the local economy and create 138 new jobs. The figure of £21·4 million assistance that I detailed contains 37 of these projects, amounting to £496,000 of support. The jobs fund was launched in April 2011, and, by the end of August 2012, it had secured 21 projects in South Antrim. These are at various stages of development and should lead to the creation of 117 new jobs, 22 of which have already been created. The figure of £21.4 million contains 16 of these jobs fund projects, amounting to £338,000 of support.

Trevor Clarke (DUP, South Antrim)

I thank the Minister for her answer. I also thank the Minister and her Department for their work with Invest NI in relation to the £21 million for South Antrim. Will the Minister give us her assessment of what part the banks played in that investment over the past two to three years and of the part that they continue to play?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

The banks play a critical role, particularly for small businesses. I know that small businesses that were clients and customers of the Ulster Bank have had a particularly difficult period to deal with. Having read a survey of some of the Ulster Bank's customers in its purchasing manager's index (PMI), I am not surprised that the bank is predicting difficulties. The Ulster Bank, unfortunately, contributed to some of the difficulties that many small businesses across Northern Ireland experienced. My economic advisory group is embarking on an independent analysis of access to finance for Northern Ireland businesses. That group is supported by financial experts Philip McDonagh and Maureen O'Reilly, and it will hold a targeted series of meetings with key stakeholders, including business representatives from across Northern Ireland. The banks are telling colleagues and me one story about wanting to lend money to businesses, and our constituents are telling us a completely different story. Therefore, we need some independent analysis of access to finance, and I look forward to receiving that information.

Joe Byrne (Social Democratic and Labour Party, West Tyrone)

In relation to some of the bottlenecks that crop up in different areas, what is Invest Northern Ireland doing to ensure that there is enough industrial zone development land in provincial towns such as Omagh?

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Clearly, that question is much wider than the original question on south Antrim. If the Minister wishes to reply, she may.

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

That, of course, is led by Minister Attwood through area plans. When information is sought on area plans, we submit material to that.

Samuel Gardiner (UUP, Upper Bann)

Will the Minister update the House on the Go For It programme, considering that £250,000 was reported to have been spent on advertising in late 2011?

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

As I understand it, the new procurement has now been settled, and we hope to make an announcement on the tender in the very near future.

Mervyn Storey (DUP, North Antrim)

6. asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on the impact that the Tourist Board Our Time Our Place 2012 campaign has had in attracting visitors to Northern Ireland. (AQO 2362/11-15)

Arlene Foster (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

It is still too early to comprehensively assess the impact of the ni2012: Our Time Our Place campaign on attracting visitors to Northern Ireland. However, the signs are very encouraging. Belfast City Council has reported that the MTV Europe Music Awards in 2011 attracted 33,500 visitors during Belfast Music Week and generated a total economic impact of £22 million for Belfast, with £10 million being the amount of additional tourism revenue for the city. Titanic Belfast has reported welcoming in excess of 450,000 people to its visitor exhibition to the end of August 2012. Of those, 62% were out-of-state visitors from 109 different countriesand 38% were domestic visitors. The Irish Open had a record attendance of 130,785 during the tournament. Up to 26 August 2012, the National Trust reported welcoming 192,000 visitors since the opening of the new Giant's Causeway visitor centre, of which 39% were Northern Ireland residents and 61% were out-of-state visitors.

2012 has not just been about those major international events. In the past few weeks, we have enjoyed the Happy Days Enniskillen International Beckett Festival, the 21st Bluegrass Festival, the East Belfast Arts Festival, the Hillsborough International Oyster Festival, BBC Proms in the Park at Titanic Slipways, Belfast, and, of course, not forgetting the Northern Ireland International Airshow. All that shows that 2012 continues to be our time to shine here in Northern Ireland.

Environment

Oliver McMullan (Sinn Féin, East Antrim)

1. asked the Minister of the Environment whether he will be holding public information sessions on the Causeway Coast and glens to explain the rationale for the possible designation of a national park. (AQO 2372/11-15)

Alex Attwood (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast West)

I thank the Member for his question, and I welcome everyone back to the Chamber. Quite clearly, I would not have been taking much note of what was going on in the North over the past number of weeks if I were not very aware of the ongoing debate, if not controversy, on national parks. I want to make it very clear that I am going to take stock of where we are with this proposal, and I ask everyone else inside and outside the Chamber to do the same. I stress that it is only a proposal in principle that has yet to earn support at the Executive or more broadly. We will see where that goes over the next period, never mind having legislation on the Floor or designation on the far side of legislation.

I make it clear that this is a conversation about a principle. I am going to take stock. I ask everybody else to take stock in the certain knowledge that, even if this principle were agreed, nothing would be imposed on any part of Northern Ireland. That would be antidemocratic and would not work in practice. If national parks were to happen, a sovereign principle at the heart of that would be that you would work with all the stakeholders, residents and farmers in any area to define what the shape of a national park might be. I think that that is a balanced, moderate and sensible way to go forward, and I hope that others concur.

Oliver McMullan (Sinn Féin, East Antrim)

I thank the Minister for his answer. However, we are seeing the cart being put before the horse. You have put something out that, as you said, will not be legislated for. When will we see a working model so that people can really look at the pros and cons of this aspiration for a playground for suburbia? [Interruption.] Secondly, Minister, will you come to the glens to —

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

I remind Members that you are all entitled to ask a question of the Minister. Minister, answer please.

Oliver McMullan (Sinn Féin, East Antrim)

Will the Minister tell me today —

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

Order. A question has been asked, and a clear attempt to ask a second is now being made. Can I have the answer, Minister?

Alex Attwood (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast West)

I concur with the initial thrust of the question, which was, namely, about a conversation on the pros and cons. The pros might be that there would be no additional regulation. A pro would be that planning would be vested in local councils under RPA and not in any other structure. A pro would be that no restrictions would be placed on livestock or on products that might be grown.

John Dallat (Social Democratic and Labour Party, East Londonderry)

Hear, hear.

Alex Attwood (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast West)

Thank you, Mr Dallat. Another pro would be that any restrictions will come from Europe and DARD and not from DOE and national park designation. We will see where things go between now and 2014 with the renegotiation of CAP, which will have a much more intimate and real-time impact on farmers and rural dwellers than anything that I, DOE or national parks might lead.

Will it be a playground for suburbia? We face a situation in the North where 80,000 people will be out of work on the far side of welfare reform, if it is imposed on the Assembly. On the far side of that, there could be more people unemployed, given that unemployment increased by 400 between the first and last day of July alone.

Therefore, we have to position the North in all ways to maximise the opportunities for work, given the scale of unemployment that we are about to face and the structural nature of it.

In that context, national parks may be an option. It may end up that they do not win favour in any one part of the North, never mind at the Executive or in the Chamber, but national parks are a proven model in other places. We would model ours in the image of our circumstances, given the scale of our rural community and the primacy of farmers. We would model it to the circumstances that suit the North of Ireland. Why? To bring benefit to all those who live in those areas. Why? To protect the farming interests going forward. Why? To grow tourism to a billion pounds a year industry, as is the ambition of many people over the next number of years. That is not a playground for suburbia; that is serving the interests of all those who live in such areas and, in particular, serving the needs of the many, many people who will be workless over the next five, 10 and 15 years.

Maurice (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

I listened to the Minister reply to the original question and to the supplementary. Are you now telling this Assembly that you are not proceeding with a national park?

Alex Attwood (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast West)

I said, and I will repeat it now, that I am taking stock. That is not saying that I will not proceed with anything. I am taking stock, as is my obligation as a democratically accountable Minister, to hear the many and differing voices on the issue of national parks. In one part of the North, legitimate concerns have been raised by the farming community. In the same area, there is legitimate support for the principle of national parks from the commercial community. Therefore, there are many voices on the issue of national parks. I would be reckless if I did not listen to and heed what people are saying. That is why, far from abandoning the proposal, I want to have a conversation with all those for and against it over the next number of weeks. On the far side of that, Lord Morrow, I will make a judgement about the best advice to give to the Executive and the House.

However, given the scale of worklessness that our people are facing, do we not have an obligation to interrogate forensically any and all opportunities to grow jobs in this part of the world? Do we not have an obligation to recognise that, given the scale, wonder and beauty of our natural and built environment, we need to grasp the opportunities for heritage-led development over the next five and 10 years? Deciding what vehicle to use to do that is the challenge to me as a Minister and to us as a legislature. I hope that, whatever way we do it, we measure up to that task.

Tom Elliott (UUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

The Minister welcomed us back after the summer, and I welcome him back, particularly after the two aggressive meetings about national parks recently, one in Cookstown that he attended and the other in Newcastle that he did not. The three areas that have been outlined as potential —

Francie Molloy (Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster)

May we have a question, please?

Tom Elliott (UUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

— national park areas all have some protected designation. How would designations as national parks differ from those designations that they already have?

Alex Attwood (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast West)

Yes, I was at one public meeting and not the other. I was invited to the latter at very short notice, and I had legitimate family commitments on that night. I will listen to people publicly and privately on the issue of national parks and the principle behind them; namely, what we can do to protect the assets of our natural environment, promote the farming community that lives therein and grow that as a marketing tool for tourist development.

What will be different? The level of designations in many parts of Northern Ireland is a reflection of, as I said before, the scale, wonder and beauty of our built and natural heritage. There are many designations in the North. Indeed, parts of the North have multiple environmental designations. What does a national park do? It says that one or two places from all the places of wonder and beauty have such a special quality that they have a special name, and within the special name follows resources, good management with the local community, especially farmers, and marketing opportunities on the far side.

I understand the worst fears about national parks, because there are models that, in my view, are not fit for purpose in the circumstances of the North. However, can we model one that is suitable for the circumstances of the North, that reflects the needs of the farming community in particular, given the scale and character of that community in Northern Ireland, and yet creates opportunities by defining one or two areas in such a special way that people internationally will say that if you go there, you will have a special and particular experience?