Michelle McIlveen
Strangford · Democratic Unionist Party · Northern Ireland
“Public confidence depends not only on effective enforcement but on enforcement being exercised fairly and consistently. <BR /> <BR />There is widespread concern across Northern Ireland about the condition of many of our lakes and rivers, and there are a vast number of factors that contribute to water quality challenges.”
“Although we support the overall direction of travel, I think that is appropriate to reflect on the concerns that have been raised and ensure that the legislation is proportionate, practical and capable of delivering its intended outcomes.”
“If we are therefore serious about improving our aquatic environment, every source of pollution must be addressed. New legislative powers are meaningful only if the Department has the resources, the expertise and the personnel necessary to implement them effectively.”
“There is, however, a need for accompanying clear guidance and support and for regulatory consistency and prompt decision-making. Delays, uncertainty and excessive bureaucracy will undoubtedly discourage investment and undermine confidence in the sector.”
“Subordinate legislation should not become a substitute for proper democratic accountability. Consultation and engagement must be undertaken before regulations are introduced, and I cannot overstate the need for stakeholder engagement. <BR /> <BR />I will now talk about the Bill's proposed enforcement powers.”
“The DUP broadly welcomes the Bill. As has been said, it provides an opportunity to modernise legislation that, in some areas, has remained largely unchanged for decades. The Bill strengthens the protection of our fisheries, improves the regulatory framework for aquaculture and enhances the management of our water environment.”
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“However, the MLAs who are concerned about household budgets — we hear daily about food prices and economic competitiveness — should be concerned about freight costs too. We hear calls from the parties opposite for intervention on the soaring price of fuel at the pumps and the rocketing cost of home heating oil. The Treasury Minister is meeting MPs to explore further action about the unique challenges facing households that use heating oil, but what about the unique circumstances facing Northern Ireland in respect of the Order? In this instance, it seems to be perfectly acceptable to add a further tax from July this year to our customers. <BR /> <BR />The question is whether the specific policy will drive decarbonisation or simply add costs without enabling change.”
“I thank the Member for his intervention. <BR /> <BR />Those routes underpin agri-food exports and chilled supply chains; manufacturing inputs and just-in-time logistics; supermarket and retail distribution; construction supply chains; and tourism and passenger connectivity. As a result, any increase in maritime operating costs flows directly through the entire Northern Ireland economy. Initial estimates suggest that ETS compliance could increase freight costs by around £15 per trailer, equivalent to roughly a 6% increase in average freight costs. Those costs will not simply remain with shipping operators. They will ultimately be passed on via higher export costs for Northern Ireland businesses, including our haulage firms, increased supply chain costs and higher prices for consumers. DAERA has downplayed those costs.”
“I agree with the Member's comments, and that was clear in our considerations. <BR /> <BR />At a time when cost-of-living pressures remain severe, it is reasonable for us to ask whether the proposal is properly designed, adequately evidenced or sufficiently adapted to Northern Ireland's circumstances. In practical terms, the scheme risks functioning less as a decarbonisation mechanism and more as a tax on trade across the Irish Sea. <BR /> <BR />Why does this matter so much to Northern Ireland? It matters because Northern Ireland is uniquely dependent on maritime connectivity. As the Chair said, around 90% of goods entering or leaving Northern Ireland move by sea. For many businesses trading with Great Britain, ferry services are not just one option among several; they are the only route to market.”
“It is a sector that works on small margins, so managing time and fuel is essential. However, in its current form, the proposal risks imposing additional costs on trade between Northern Ireland and Great Britain without delivering meaningful emission reductions. Given Northern Ireland's structural reliance on maritime transport, the policy will disproportionately affect local businesses and households.”
“What happened was, frankly, disgraceful. Last-minute pressure was placed on parties by UKG. A new dimension associated with CBAM and impact on EU negotiations was introduced. No facts, detail or proper briefing, just smoke and mirrors. That is not the way that we should do our politics, and interference at such a late stage is highly suspicious. What is interesting about all this is the fact that Sinn Féin and the SDLP folded under a threat from the British Government. <BR /> <BR />Setting the process aside, let us look at the proposed extension of the UK emissions trading scheme to maritime transport and the significant concerns that it raises for Northern Ireland. It is clear from our discussions that the maritime sector supports decarbonisation and is already investing heavily in cleaner vessels and technologies.”
“Having that ability in relation to this Order has been enlightening. As the Chair has outlined, having heard from the Department on 19 February, when all parties bar Alliance raised concerns, we agreed to hear from Stena and the UK Chamber of Shipping. Last Thursday, we heard an incredibly detailed and considered presentation from both organisations. So convincing were their arguments that the United Kingdom Government (UKG) clearly believed that the Committee was going to oppose the Order.”
“There is much talk in the media and other places, including from Members, about the lack of legislation coming through the Chamber. No focus is placed on or thought given to the hours of scrutiny in Committees weekly, and in particular to the importance of statutory instruments. Delegated legislation that brings the provisions of Acts into force, and that creates detailed laws and orders, essentially puts flesh on the bones of primary legislation. This is the devil in the detail — the legislation that changes citizens' lives. <BR /> <BR />Scrutiny of SIs, or the lack thereof, has been a bugbear of mine. Until this year, there was no mechanism for Committees to formally seek views outside what was presented by the relevant Departments.”
“The weekend celebrations, which included a concert, a special historical exhibition and a service of thanksgiving, were a wonderful success. I warmly congratulate the minister, the Rev Gareth Simpson, the kirk session, the congregation and all the supporting groups and volunteers who worked so hard to make the anniversary memorable and meaningful. Their faithfulness over 400 years is an inspiration to us all. I extend my sincere congratulations and best wishes to the entire Ballywalter Presbyterian family as it looks forward to the years ahead. <BR /> <BR />I record special thanks to the Ulster-Scots Agency for generously supporting the celebrations, to Mark Thompson and to Billy Carlile of the Ballywalter and District Historical Society for pulling together all the information. Congratulations to all involved.”
“The congregation has provided spiritual and pastoral support and practical service to every generation. Its distinctive building on Main Street, completed in 1889, stands as a landmark of faith and community.”
“I rise to recognise a significant milestone in the life and godly witness of one of our oldest Presbyterian congregations. On 6 March 2026, Ballywalter Presbyterian Church in my constituency of Strangford celebrated 400 years of continuous ministry in the village. The celebrations marked the anniversary of the installation in 1626 of the Reverend James Hamilton as the first Presbyterian minister on the Ards peninsula. A nephew of Viscount Clandeboye, Reverend Hamilton was ordained in March 1626 and faithfully served the growing Scottish community for a decade. That date is commemorated on the front of my old office in the village, the former Presbyterian church hall. For four centuries, Ballywalter Presbyterian Church has been at the very heart of village life.”
“I thank the Member for giving away. He had started to go on to the point that I am going to make, which is that any agreement around reform needs to have the support of all parties, particularly the largest unionist party.”
“Farmers will welcome the fact that, two years on, the Minister is focusing attention on Northern Ireland Water. What assessment has the Minister made of the impact of the measures that he has announced on current Northern Ireland Water consents and future planning applications in the absence of a credible funded alternative to SORPI?”
“If the First Minister was genuinely unable to attend, the public deserves to know why. If she was unavailable, why was another senior Minister not nominated in order to ensure full Executive representation? Leadership is most evident in moments of uncertainty, and this was such a moment. An explanation is required. Beyond that, we need confirmation that Northern Ireland will be fully engaged in all further coordination with HM Government, so that clear advice, robust planning and visible leadership are provided to the people whom we serve.”
“Northern Ireland was represented by my party colleague the deputy First Minister but not by the First Minister. At such a moment, attendance is not a diary preference. It was the kind of high-level briefing that Northern Ireland's most senior office-bearer should be expected to attend. <BR /> <BR />People across Northern Ireland are not detached observers of events in the Middle East. Many have family members, colleagues, employees and business interests in the region. There is real anxiety. They want reassurance. They want to know that their Government are fully informed and fully engaged.”
“The House and the people of Northern Ireland deserve an explanation for the absence of the First Minister, Michelle O'Neill, from Saturday evening's emergency security briefing, which was convened by the UK Cabinet Office. It was not a routine briefing. Rather, it was called in response to a rapidly escalating crisis in the Middle East, as hostilities between the US, Israel and Iran intensified, raising the real prospect of a wider regional conflict. International partners were assessing the risks to regional stability, to energy markets and to the safety of UK nationals overseas, including those from Northern Ireland. The devolved Administrations were brought together to ensure coordination, preparedness and clarity. The First Ministers of Scotland and Wales attended.”
“I thank the Minister for his response. He has recognised that that is a further blow to a sector that is already under huge pressure. We could list the pressures that the sector has been under for quite some time. Has the Minister made contact with the UK Government about the issue, and will he work with skippers in the sector and the producer organisations to bring forward a strategy that works for the fishing sector by making it sustainable?”
“Given that plastic makes up 15% to 20% of a nappy, I ask the Minister, further to my debate in January last year, whether he will provide an update on how he is going to divert nappies and absorbent hygiene products away from residual waste and ensure that valuable, recyclable material is extracted and reused?”
“I have written to the Minister responsible for fisheries, Andrew Muir, setting out the concerns and calling for urgent engagement. The Minister must bring industry representatives together without delay and open direct discussions with the Isle of Man authorities to seek a resolution. I have also written to the Isle of Man Government. <BR /> <BR />Our fishermen are not asking for preferential treatment; they are asking for fairness, recognition of long-established fishing practice and firm support from the Minister.”
“Two years ago, exclusion zones were introduced that prevented Northern Ireland’s trawl fleet from accessing key fishing grounds. Those measures were presented on environmental grounds, but many in the industry believed that they disproportionately favoured Manx vessels. We now see a similar outcome achieved by different means, this time through immigration rules rather than fisheries policy. <BR /> <BR />There has been little meaningful consultation, limited notice and scant regard for the economic circumstances of our fishing industry. The change comes at a time when the sector is already under severe pressure: fuel costs remain high, labour shortages persist and regulatory demands continue to grow. Many vessel owners operate on tight margins; removing access to traditional fishing grounds places their businesses in genuine jeopardy.”
“For many years, our fleet has faced real and persistent difficulties in recruiting local crew. As a result, around 70% of those working on vessels registered in Northern Ireland are overseas workers. They work hard and contribute to our coastal economy, yet the new approach takes no account of that reality and places compliant vessels at a serious disadvantage. The consequences are evident: Northern Ireland vessels, despite having lawfully purchased licences and fished the waters for generations, will effectively be shut out from operating within the Isle of Man's 12-nautical-mile limit. That will be felt most sharply in the scallop and nephrop sectors, both of which are central to the viability of our trawl fleet. <BR /> <BR />The challenge is not the first that our fleet has faced in Manx waters.”
“I will highlight a matter of urgent concern for our fishing communities, particularly those in my constituency of Strangford and in south Down. Once again, their livelihoods are under threat as a result of action taken by the Isle of Man Government. New Manx immigration rules mean that any vessel operating with crew members holding a UK transit visa or a UK skilled worker visa cannot fish commercially in Manx territorial waters. If such a vessel does so, its owner is deemed to have committed an offence. In practical terms, crew members must now hold an Isle of Man visa to work in those waters. To secure such a visa, the employing business must be registered in the Isle of Man. <BR /> <BR />The change will have a huge impact on local fishermen and businesses.”
“Importantly, in the context of the debate, a bridge would take the pressure off the A20 when that road is closed or unsafe. It would also provide a safer route. As local representatives, we are aware that the A20 is a notorious accident black spot that, sadly, has claimed many lives. Such a project should be carried out in tandem with the maintenance of a resilient infrastructure that future-proofs our transport network. We need to be ambitious in our planning to deliver for our communities safe, reliable roads and transport links that are capable of withstanding whatever nature throws at them. <BR /> <BR />Thank you very much for that.”
“Thank you very much, Mr Deputy Speaker. <BR /> <BR />A bridge would provide an alternative route off the peninsula that does not depend on a coast-hugging road that is vulnerable to storm surge. It would improve traffic flow for local residents, visitors and emergency services. There is little doubt that a bridge would boost tourism and local commerce by making lower Ards and the rest of the peninsula more accessible all year round.”
“We should not ignore them simply because they are difficult; we should look at them because of their likely impact. <BR /> <BR />I am conscious that I have run out of time, Mr Deputy Speaker.”
“Secondly, I ask the Minister to develop a long-term coastal resilience strategy for the Ards peninsula based on robust climate modelling that anticipates future tidal and storm risk instead of reacting after damage occurs. We need to be much more proactive, not reactive. Finally, I ask the Minister to work with communities, councils and engineers to identify where enhanced defences can be installed before the next major storm hits. <BR /> <BR />Looking beyond sea defences, we must examine whether fundamentally different transport solutions might deliver resilience and economic benefit for our area. That is why I continue to raise the prospect of having a fixed crossing between Portaferry and Strangford. I know that the prospect of a bridge annoys Ms Armstrong, but we need to be bold and consider long-term infrastructure options.”
“<BR /> <BR />That brings me to a key point: we must look at ring-fencing money for sea defences. Too often, coastal protection is the first thing to be squeezed in budget rounds, leaving front-line infrastructure vulnerable and the taxpayer ultimately paying for more reactive repairs than proactive protection. <BR /> <BR />I ask the Minister for a number of things, the first of which is to establish a dedicated, ring-fenced sea defence budget in the Department for Infrastructure that is targeted at strategic coastal road protection so that the issues on vital routes such as the A20 can be addressed. As the Minister will know, I have raised the matter recently in questions for written answer. Thus far, I have been disappointed with her responses.”
“<BR /> <BR />It is a matter of record that severe weather events have repeatedly led to sea defence repairs to the Portaferry Road section, but we cannot and should not treat the issue as one of maintenance alone. To give credit where it is due, I thank Stephen Gardiner, the local section engineer, and his team. They have worked tirelessly, looking to undertake local improvement works and trying to access the money to do them. Following the previous Adjournment debate, which focused on various issues along the road, those works will include carriage resurfacing schemes in the vicinity of Portaferry and along stretches of the A20 and adjacent access roads. Resurfacing can go only so far, however, when the road's very foundations are threatened by relentless coastal forces.”
“That is one reason that, when I was Minister for Regional Development, I established the coastal forum with the then Minister of the Environment, Mark Durkan. As the Minister will know, I have kept a keen interest in the running of that group. I was disappointed to note the gap between its meetings. <BR /> <BR />Coastal erosion is hugely significant for the entire Ards peninsula. I am acutely aware of the fact that the Department has had to repair road undermining and sea wall damage along that very route for some time. During my time as Minister, a structural survey was carried out at my behest, and works were subsequently undertaken.”
“Storm Chandra last week and earlier events such as storm Bram brought heavy rain, tidal surges and severe winds that caused significant flooding and closures along the Portaferry Road. Entire sections of the carriageway were impassable. Residents and commuters were cut off by floodwater, debris and wave overtopping, and emergency services were left battling unpredictable conditions. We all saw images of vehicles stranded amid rising waters. As has been said, those events are not one-off occurrences but symptomatic of a shifting climate reality. <BR /> <BR />The coastal alignment of the A20, hugging the shores of Strangford lough, makes it especially vulnerable to tidal surges, wave action and rising sea levels.”
“While there are alternatives along the peninsula, as Ms Armstrong said, they are often unsuitable for the traffic that is diverted on to them, with many requiring considerable resurfacing and drainage work to make them safe.”
“Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. I thank my constituency colleague for securing the Adjournment debate and the Minister for attending it. <BR /> <BR />The fact that the Portaferry Road has now been the subject of two Adjournment debates since the restoration of the Assembly underlines the strategic importance of the route. As has been said, the A20 Portaferry Road is a vital lifeline for communities across the Ards peninsula and beyond. Local constituents and businesses are hugely concerned about the recurring damage to the road and the need for earlier notification about the road closures.”
“While I am mindful of the Minister's responses in relation to ammonia levels, is the strategy just a further attempt to reduce livestock numbers in Northern Ireland?”
“I thank the Minister for her response. The numbers that she has shared with the Chamber are shocking. While she has outlined some of the obstacles that she wishes to remove, given that she has accepted that inadequate waste water infrastructure and inherent delays in the planning system are the biggest obstacles to economic growth in Northern Ireland, what is she planning to do about the issues with consultee response times, staff turnover and failure to adopt best practice from other jurisdictions in order to address the gridlock in our planning system?”
“On 5 January, we marked the 50th anniversary of the Kingsmills massacre and, just this weekend, the 34th anniversary of the Teebane massacre. Given the brutal loss of life and the trauma inflicted upon the victims and their families to this very day by IRA cowards, does the First Minister wish to retract her statement that there was no alternative to the murder of innocent workmen at the side of the road?”
“He was an active Assembly Member who represented his constituents in Newry and Armagh over many years, and I am conscious that, like all elected representatives, he will have helped many people on day-to-day issues, bread-and-butter issues and things that matter to families and communities. At moments such as this, it is right to acknowledge the loss felt by those closest to him and to recognise his role as a public representative. My condolences go to his family and to those who worked with him.”
“On behalf of the Democratic Unionist Party, I express my sympathy to the family and loved ones of Mickey Brady following his passing. They have lost someone dear to them, and my thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time. Like many colleagues across the Chamber, I served alongside Mickey in the Assembly, including on the Social Development Committee. While our political positions and aspirations could not have been more different, we worked on a number of issues on the Committee that were motivated by the shared responsibility of public service.”
“The Minister will be aware that weight loss medications are available over the internet and have become increasingly accessible without a GP prescription. Will he consider public health messaging on the potential risks associated with the long-term health and side effects that are caused by taking that type of medication without medical supervision?”
“He is also one of those sensible heads that we all need when passions are high. <BR /> <BR />It is deeply sad that this day has come. After William's serving 20 years as a public representative in the council and the Northern Ireland Assembly and in recognition of his long service to his country and his party, I take the opportunity to mark that service properly and purposefully in the Chamber and to place on the public record my party's and my personal appreciation for William. "Retirement" is not a word in William's vocabulary; perhaps, more fittingly, it is simply about refocusing on his other priorities. Our loss is his wife, Olive's, gain. I wish William, Olive and his family every blessing in the future.”
“However, there are other words that can define William: tireless, loyal, generous, compassionate, quiet, diligent, effective, husband, father, grandfather, colleague and friend. It has always been a privilege to serve with and a pleasure to work with William. In the bitter world of local politics, where harsh words and insults are bandied about easily without any consideration of the consequences, one thing that stands out about William is that, in all the years that I have known him, he has never spoken ill of someone or fallen out with anyone. <BR /> <BR />On a personal note, I will miss William's friendship, loyalty, wit, advice and guidance in this place. He has been a fantastic help and support to me through my time in the Assembly, particularly on all matters rural.”
“A true stalwart, William is the authentic voice of the rural community: the natural farmer's friend. Coming from an agricultural background, he has always been fiercely proud of those roots, and becoming Chair of the Committee was one of the highlights of his political career. He has also served with distinction as Deputy Chair of the Committee for Culture, Arts and Leisure and the Deputy Chair of the Infrastructure Committee. He has been a stalwart for unionism in Newry and Armagh; a mantle that he has carried with unwavering principle, and, with that, he has earned the respect and affection of his constituents. His are big shoes to fill. <BR /> <BR />Yesterday, as a tribute, a colleague summed up William Irwin in two words: faithful and true.”
“I rise this morning to recognise the contribution of my friend and DUP colleague William Irwin MLA from the Newry and Armagh constituency. As you will be aware, William has indicated his intention to step down from the Assembly at the end of the year, and it is fitting to mark that occasion. <BR /> <BR />William was first elected to Armagh City and District Council in 2005, prior to his election to the Northern Ireland Assembly in 2007. As a member of the class of 2007, William and the rest of us newbies learned our craft from the old hands. In what seems like a blink of an eye, we are the old hands. <BR /> <BR />As a farmer, William has agriculture in his blood. He earned the right to serve, from day one, on the Committee for Agriculture and Rural Development and, later, the Committee for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs.”
“The regionalisation programme was meant to be a year-long short, sharp intervention. We now have the prospect of a five-year programme in an area of lower-than-average incidence. Is the Minister serious about wildlife intervention and eradicating TB, or is he in the business of kicking the can down the road and tying a future Minister's hands?”
“On its bicentenary, it is fitting that the Chamber recognises Carrickmannon Primary School's remarkable contribution to our society.”
“A school that normally raised modest sums for annual charities became the heart of a Province-wide movement. Schools, churches, businesses and community groups rallied around Carrickmannon, organising countless fund-raising events. Driven by the commitment of staff, parents and local people, the target was reached and exceeded. The first MRI scanner in Northern Ireland was housed in a purpose-built facility, known appropriately as Carrickmannon House, at the Royal Victoria Hospital. It was transformative for healthcare in Northern Ireland. <BR /> <BR />Carrickmannon is a family-oriented school with a big heart, welcoming pupils from the village and the rural community. It has been recognised for its exceptional pastoral care and academic achievements, and it is a shining example of what a small rural school can achieve.”
“The legacy of Carrickmannon Primary School is not confined to the achievements of individuals. It is also seen in how that small school has inspired collective action: action that changed healthcare in Northern Ireland. In the late 1980s, the Carrickmannon scanner appeal was launched. At that time, no MRI scanners existed anywhere in Northern Ireland or the Irish Republic. A local child's illness exposed the urgent need for one. Dr McKinstry, an early and passionate advocate for MRI technology, was invited to Carrickmannon to explain its potential. In a packed room, he described how the scanner could detect abnormalities as small as a grain of sand. The school's former principal Mrs Montgomery asked what could be done. His answer: £700,000 to secure Northern Ireland's first MRI scanner. What followed was extraordinary.”
“One of its earliest former pupils was James Munce, the renowned Ulster-Scots poet who produced a 400-page volume of poetry that continues to be recognised in Ulster-Scots literature. Sir John Henry Biggart, who started attending the school in 1911, became dean of the faculty of medicine at Queen's; a post that he held for an extraordinary 28 years. His leadership was instrumental in the development of the blood transfusion service, and he played a defining role in the evolution of the health service of Northern Ireland.”
“On Saturday evening, I was delighted to host a gala ball in Parliament Buildings, bringing to an end a year of celebration for Carrickmannon Primary School as it marked its 200th anniversary. It is proudly Northern Ireland's oldest school. It began in 1825 in a one-room thatched-roof schoolhouse on the outskirts of Ballygowan, with a grant of £22, on land granted by Lord Dufferin. <BR /> <BR />That little school witnessed the Industrial Revolution, the reign of Queen Victoria, the launch and sinking of the Titanic, and two world wars. Its influence can be traced through generations and through individuals whose contributions have shaped our cultural, academic and medical landscape.”
“Food security is an issue not just for DAERA; there must be an Executive-wide approach, and the Minister must, as a priority, establish formalised discussions with the Department for the Economy on the development of a food strategy that places food security at its heart. The motion recognises those realities and identifies the steps that are to be taken. It sends a message that the Assembly values our farmers, processors and the tens of thousands of families whose livelihoods depend on the agri-food sector.”
“It is productive, innovative, resilient and respected globally, but it is also vulnerable. If we want to retain food security, the obstacles that prevent growth need to be removed, the lack of clarity on ammonia controls in planning needs to be addressed and the looming crisis in veterinary medicine and the regulatory divergence created by the Windsor framework all need to be addressed. However, we must also adopt realistic climate targets that protect the environment and the farms and businesses that feed us. <BR /> <BR />Food security is not delivered by overburdening the very people who provide the food, and sustainability is not delivered by driving production elsewhere. Economic growth is not delivered by allowing bureaucracy, whether it is from London, Brussels or our own agencies, to choke off investment.”
“There is no shame in the Minister revisiting the interim 2030 and 2040 targets. It would be an act of honesty and responsibility. We see that in jurisdictions around the world where pragmatism is favoured over hubris. <BR /> <BR />For obvious reasons, we will not support the Sinn Féin amendment. It fails to recognise the problems that the Windsor framework causes and, therefore, fails to seek to address those problems. It fails to recognise the damage that will be caused by strict adherence to unrealistic targets rather than revisiting them, as is happening in other jurisdictions. It does not address what our agri-food sector needs. <BR /> <BR />Northern Ireland's agri-food sector is one of our greatest assets, and it should be cherished and protected.”