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Minister, do you agree that all minority languages are important in Northern Ireland, and that there is a clear focus by some elements in the House to pick out one language and not focus on the clear agreements that were made that all languages would be treated fairly and equitably here in Northern Ireland?
I am more than happy to consider all invites that come in. Depending on how the work progresses, I will determine whether it would be useful or necessary for me or my officials to have such a meeting.
We love to ask questions about meetings in this place. I do not have information on the exact number of meetings that have taken place, but I will happily provide that to the Member.
Thank you, Minister, for your answer. What conversations have you had with the Executive Office on the new bodies and roles that are being established, particularly that of the Irish language commissioner?
Work is progressing on the development of the Executive's Irish language strategy. Owing to the cross-cutting nature of the strategy, a cross-departmental working group of senior officials from Departments is considering the Irish language strategy co-design group's proposed strategy and action plan, which are being…
No, because I do not think that that would be a good use of time. I have given examples of why, sometimes, meetings cannot happen. With regard to some of the social inclusion strategies, I have made it clear that I wanted to set out my Department's way forward before we committed to different meetings. Remember, of…
Recently, at an all-party group (APG), women's groups voiced that they were saddened that they had not had the chance to meet you yet. I understand that, as a Minister, your diary is tight for time. Will you consider publishing the criteria by which you decide whether to accept a meeting?
Yes. So far, I have accepted 395 invitations from various organisations and individuals under the remit of my Department. It is important to put that on record, because there has been a lot of controversy about this over the past weeks. It is not possible for me to meet everybody. Sometimes there are diary clashes;…
In your answer to the Member's question, you mentioned how many groups you have not yet been able to meet. Can you outline how many groups you have met in your time in office?
I reiterate my opposition to any intimidation whatsoever, wherever it comes from. It is absolutely wrong and should not happen. My party and I have been categorical on that matter. If there is anything that I can do to assist, I will be happy to do so. I am more than happy to look again at the invitation. I do not…
As you know, Minister, sport plays an important role in building community cohesion. I am advised that East Belfast GAA wrote to you on 18 September to request a meeting but has not yet received a response. What actions are you taking urgently to meet East Belfast GAA to demonstrate your support in the face of ongoing…
I cannot answer questions on behalf of the Department of Education. Of course, if intimidation is happening, regardless of the situation, scenario or where it takes place, I will always condemn it. However, that issue was not raised with me during the meeting to which the Member refers, because it does not fall within…
Thank you, Minister. It has been reported that the Loyalist Community Council (LCC), which the Education Minister and you recently met, has raised opposition to Scoil na Seolta in east Belfast. Given the ongoing intimidation, attacks and whipping up of sectarianism against the school and those who use it, will you…
Even if the building were to be listed, that would not mean that it could not be demolished. All planning applications relating to listed buildings are determined by the local council. It assesses the merits of the building's special architectural or historical interest against current planning policy. My Department…
I have been briefed by officials on the proposed listing of Marlborough House. They have shared with me the proposed listing report and its case for special interest in architectural and historical terms, which is the relevant statutory test. My officials have also advised that an independent report was commissioned…
I hope that the Member understands that I do not have those figures at my disposal right now. Of course, I will be happy to write to him with that information.
How many times has the homelessness strategy steering group met since the Minister took up office? During that time, how many people have presented as homeless citing loss of private rented accommodation as the reason?
I will certainly be happy to find out further information on the specific issue that the Member raises. He will be aware, however, that commissioning decisions for Supporting People services are a matter for the Housing Executive, which is the commissioning body for the programme. I understand that the Living Rivers…
Minister, a Choice Housing development which was built at George Street in Ballymena was completed in summer 2023. It was designed to be one-bedroom general needs properties. Does your Department have any oversight of the change from general needs to emergency accommodation that has been allowed to happen in that…
That is a very important issue. Overall, dealing with homelessness requires a whole-of-government approach, because the reasons for it are varied and complex. We know that young people leaving care or people with mental health or addiction issues are more likely to face homelessness. To prevent and resolve…