I share the concern of consitutents regarding the timing of roadworks on the junction of the Old Carrick Road and the Monkstown Road, Newtownabbey, that start on Monday 2nd March. However after an in depth conversation with DfI, I have been made aware that these are essential works as the traffic light loops are in shallow ground and are breaking up, which is reducing the efficiency of the junction. The work will start on 02/03/26 and will finish on 24/03/26 and will be limit

Recently several parents have been in touch with me regarding overdue childhood vaccinations, and the process of receiving these via their GP. I have written to the Minister to ask what the process is. Childhood vaccinations are provided by GPs to children registered with their practice. However, I have been made aware of cases where children have waited many months, with parents struggling to get clear information, timescales, or a plan. Practices are regularly informed by C

Minister's Answer Childhood vaccinations are provided by GPs to children registered with their practice. There have been several recent changes in the childhood vaccination schedule, and information has been provided to inform GPs and their practice teams about the new schedule, including through on-line training, and via workshops. Childhood vaccinations are currently recorded on the Child Health System (CHS), which is also used to schedule vaccination appointments. The P

Minister's Answer Ministers are not required to recuse themselves from discussion, and as such there is no recorded information in relation to recusals. Ministers are required to declare an interest where they are proposing or supporting an action which is likely to, or perceived to, have a direct benefit to themselves or to another person or organisation with whom they have a close personal relationship or interest. Such an interest was declared by the deputy First Minister

There will be a line Closure between Carrickfergus and Larne Harbour this weekend (21st & 22nd Feb) and next weekend (28th Feb & 1st March) Rail replacement bus services will serve main road bus stops but will call at Whitehead and Larne Town Train Stations. Rail replacement bus services will meet Belfast-bound trains at Carrickfergus. The line between Carrickfergus and Belfast will be operational. Translink are advising customers to check their timetables in advance of trave

Minister's Answer I can confirm that the responsibility for maintenance of the footpath at the location specified rests with my Department.

Minister's Answer My Department or the Public Health Agency have not been invited to attend this event. Screening policy across the UK is informed by the recommendations of the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent committee which advises the four UK health Departments on screening matters. My Department will continue to be guided by the UK NSC’s recommendations on proposals for screening programmes.

Minister's Answer I agree with the Member about the impact of waiting times on patients and their families and friends. I do not have an answer to the Member's specific question about Belfast City Hospital. Generally speaking, however, we are trying to deal with regional variation, particularly where it is not reasonable variation. I gave an example to Mr Kingston of what I consider not to be reasonable variation or a reasonable reason for delay. As well as making savings in

Thinking ahead to planting season? A local social enterprise based in prison grounds is offering sustainably grown trees at reduced prices while stocks last. Magilligan Tree Nursery has announced two special offers and has also explained how each order helps support its prisoner rehabilitation efforts as well as work to help native tree species and the community. The offers – 10 trees from £8.95 plus one free tree with every ten purchased – are now available. The £8.95 price

Minister's Answer My officials initially assessed the damage to the sea wall, at Rhanbuoy Park, immediately following Storm Bram, which occurred on Tuesday 9 December 2025. Temporary measures were put in place to ensure public safety and mitigate against future flooding, until permanent repairs can be completed. As you will appreciate work of this nature is susceptible to the elements; therefore, repairs will be scheduled during more amenable weather conditions. Officials con