Pam Lewis
South Antrim · Democratic Unionist Party · Northern Ireland
“I thank the Minister for her answer. Indeed, I thank her for the assistance that she, as Minister of Justice, gave my constituents Kathryn and Aaron McCollum following the tragic death of their much-loved husband and father. Her assistance was deeply appreciated.”
“I thank the Minister for her answer. I very much welcome the amendment to the Justice Bill on this subject, and I thank my colleagues across the Chamber for the good work that they have done on it. What cost is the PSNI carrying for the seizure, storage and disposal of those vehicles? Is that cost creating a barrier to enforcement?”
“It progresses 18 recommendations from the independent review of charity regulation, with a focus on a more risk-based approach that promotes trust and accountability without placing undue burdens on charities.”
“I welcome the opportunity to speak as a member of the Communities Committee at Second Stage of the Charities (Amendment) Bill. I thank the Minister and the Chair of the Committee for outlining the details of the Bill.”
“The public must have confidence that charitable funds are being used properly, that trustees understand their responsibilities and that there is effective oversight when misconduct or mismanagement occurs.”
“<BR /> <BR />I welcome the streamlining of accounting and reporting requirements. For small charities, administration can be a real challenge and burden.”
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“If the strategy is to succeed, Departments must be held accountable for outcomes, not simply intentions. That means setting measurable targets for outcomes on diagnosis, waiting times, educational support provision and transitions into adulthood and employment, alongside regular public reporting on progress. <BR /> <BR />Under the provisions of the Autism (Amendment) Act 2022, Ema Cubitt was appointed in 2024 as the first Independent Autism Reviewer for Northern Ireland, and we absolutely welcome that. The role is the first of its kind across the United Kingdom and Ireland, and we should be rightly proud of it. However, Ema Cubitt has, on several occasions, highlighted the significant challenges associated with carrying out her responsibilities effectively, particularly because of insufficient resources, inadequate data —.”
“We need targeted employment strategies, supported apprenticeships, autism-friendly recruitment practices and greater partnership among government, employers and the community sector to create sustainable employment opportunities. <BR /> <BR />I welcome the fact that the Health Minister is here to respond to the debate. I welcome the publication of the latest delivery plan, but I remain concerned by the continuing absence of clear, measurable and time-bound targets. That has been a persistent weakness of previous strategies and action plans. Without quantifiable targets, transparent reporting mechanisms and departmental accountability, it becomes impossible to properly assess whether progress is being made. Aspirational language alone will not reduce waiting lists, improve school supports or increase employment opportunities.”
“Too many parents describe a cliff edge in support once a young person leaves school. There remains a lack of meaningful pathways into further education, employment, independent living and community participation for autistic adults. The employment figures alone should act as a wake-up call. Across the UK, only 22% of autistic adults are in employment, which is one of the lowest employment rates of any disability group. Many autistic people have enormous skills, talents and potential that are being overlooked because workplaces are not adapting recruitment practices or providing appropriate support. That is why we in government must move beyond simply recognising the problem and begin implementing measurable actions.”
“In other words, the failure to intervene early is not only damaging for families but economically short-sighted. <BR /> <BR />In education, autistic children continue to be failed in the classroom environment. Many parents report that their child is either not receiving the support that is needed or is being placed on a reduced timetable because the school does not have the capacity or resources to meet need. Even more concerning is the increasing number of autistic children who are now being described as experiencing "school can't" — children who are unable to attend school because the educational environment has become overwhelming, unsupported or unsuitable for them. <BR /> <BR />Families are also deeply worried about what happens when their child reaches adulthood.”
“One of the clearest examples of systemic failure is the current waiting times for autism assessments. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance states that autism assessment pathways should be completed within 13 weeks, yet, in some health trust areas, families wait for up to five years to simply receive a diagnosis. That represents five years without clarity, five years without access to appropriate interventions and five years of avoidable stress and anxiety for children, parents and adults. <BR /> <BR />Early diagnosis and intervention are evidence-based approaches that improve educational outcomes, mental health outcomes and long-term independence. Delayed diagnosis often results in needs escalating to crisis point, placing even greater pressure on health, education and social care services further down the line.”
“I thank the Members who tabled the motion for highlighting the ongoing and deeply concerning issues surrounding autism services in Northern Ireland. As a member of the all-party group on autism and sponsor of the Autism (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, I am profoundly frustrated that, despite repeated commitments, strategies and two pieces of legislation, so many autistic people and their families continue to be failed by the systems that are supposed to support them. <BR /> <BR />In my work across my constituency, I hear regularly from parents and autistic adults about the barriers that they face daily when accessing basic services and appropriate supports. Far too many families are being left to fight for support in a system that is fragmented, under-resourced and regionally inconsistent across Northern Ireland.”
“I put on record my thanks to the Committee Clerk and her team. I came to the Committee for Communities late in the day. A huge amount of work has been done, not just by Committee staff but by many members of staff who have been incredibly accommodating in ensuring that every voice has been heard during the scrutiny of the legislation. That was no mean feat, and we thank everyone who was involved in making the scrutiny as good as it could possibly be. <BR /> <BR />This is a great day. It is a day that will mean a positive step forward. It is about fairness, inclusion and respect. It is about recognising the importance of language and ensuring that people are not excluded because of it. I have great pleasure in supporting the Bill, and I look forward to seeing the difference that it will make in the many years ahead.”
“Early access to sign language for deaf children and their families will also be key to improving long-term outcomes and ensuring that no one is disadvantaged from the very start of life. Above all, delivery must remain informed by those with lived experience. Ongoing engagement with the deaf community will be essential if we are to get this right. At the Bill's previous stages, I raised the issue of the importance of guidance, which is under development. That guidance will be vital in guiding public services as we move to implement the legislation.”
“Importantly, the Bill also recognises that sign language is not simply a tool for communication; it is a part of a distinct culture and identity, and we celebrate that. That has to be understood and respected by all of us. By recognising BSL and ISL in this way, we send a clear message that the deaf community is valued as integral to the fabric of our society, not as an afterthought or an add-on. <BR /> <BR />The focus now must turn to delivery, and the legislation provides a strong foundation, but its success will be measured by what follows. We need to see tangible improvements in access to public information, greater availability of services in sign language and continued progress across areas such as education, healthcare and justice.”
“I extend my sincere thanks to the deaf community, the representative organisations such as the British Deaf Association (BDA) and the wider stakeholders who have contributed their lived experience, their insight and their expertise in shaping this incredibly important legislation. <BR /> <BR />For far too long, many deaf people have faced unnecessary barriers when accessing public services, information and opportunities. For those whose first language is BSL or ISL, that experience is too often dependent on workarounds rather than being built into a system from the outset. The Bill begins to change that. It places a clear expectation on public authorities to plan for and deliver improved access, and it does so in a way that is practical and proportionate.”
“<BR /> <BR />This is a really good piece of work, one that reflects sustained engagement and a shared commitment across the House to improve how we recognise and support those who use British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language in their daily life. I thank the DUP Minister for Communities for making it an absolute priority in this term of office. I also thank the Department officials who worked for an incredibly long time on the legislation and worked so well with the entirety of the sector throughout the process, ensuring that co-design took place and that the legislation can indeed be the very best that it can be.”
“I am delighted to speak today on the Final Stage of the Sign Language Bill. It is a historic day. It is an incredibly significant and long-awaited day and one that will be welcomed by the deaf community across Northern Ireland and further afield. I welcome all of you to our Public Gallery. It is great to have you with us and included at this stage. I give a particular shout-out to Rita and Raymond Abernethy, my constituents in South Antrim. We have had very confused conversations for many years, and I hope that those will get easier as time goes on and we see the impact of the legislation as it is rolled out.”
“I thank the Minister for his answer. With over £350 million a year being lost through benefit fraud and error, there is huge potential to recoup funds. I urge the Minister to support the Communities Minister and push the UK Treasury on that topic. <BR /> <BR />What practical steps has the Finance Minister taken to address funding pressures in Northern Ireland himself, rather than just blaming the Brits?”
“The UK Treasury awarded extra money to bodies across the UK to address the significant increase in demand for special educational needs services. The Education Minister has for some time been referring to the pressure that SEN provision is putting on his Department's budget. Will the additional £380 million in Barnett consequentials, given the UK Government's decision to fund SEN, be ring-fenced and applied to the NI Education budget, version 2?”
“I thank the Minister for his statement to the House. I welcome the fact that special educational needs was discussed at the meeting, given the importance that it has in our school community. Will the Minister provide an update on further special educational needs provision, with particular reference to Dromore?”
“I thank the Minister for his really important statement to the House. <BR /> <BR />Minister, some Members in the Chamber would do well to speak to the schools, principals and staff to hear what they have to say. Thank you for coming out to schools in South Antrim last week. We heard directly from them. <BR /> <BR />Will the Minister explain what he expects from AI and how it may assist in addressing some of the workload pressures?”
“The 108th anniversary of the formation of the Royal Air Force was marked on 1 April this year. The Ulster Aviation Society celebrated it with the handover of a Harrier jet from the Chief of the Air Staff. I am sure that the First Minister will demonstrate our working together by joining me in commending the work of the Ulster Aviation Society as an example of how listed buildings can be utilised and preserved.”
“I thank the Minister for her answer. Will she detail what representation she has made to the UK Government on behalf of local businesses facing those rising costs? Will she continue to press for support that reflects Northern Ireland's reliance on road transport and logistics specifically?”
“It will improve access to services, strengthen inclusion and ensure that the needs of the deaf community are better recognised across Northern Ireland. As with all legislation, delivery will be key. Proper resourcing, clear guidance and sustained engagement with those who have lived experience will determine its success. Today marks an important step forward. It is a good Bill, a necessary Bill and one that can deliver meaningful change. I am pleased to support all the amendments before us today.”
“It must make it clear that, when the duties under the Bill are being fulfilled, priority is given to those for whom British Sign Language or Irish Sign Language is a first language and an essential means of communication. For those individuals, sign language is not an added benefit but is fundamental to equality of access. Clear, co-produced guidance will help to ensure that public bodies understand their responsibilities and that limited resources are directed where they are most needed and that the intent of the legislation is protected. Ongoing partnership with deaf organisations will be essential to achieving that aim. <BR /> <BR />The Bill has the potential to make a real and lasting difference.”
“I share that to make an important distinction: while many people experience hearing loss and will benefit from accessibility measures, the Bill's primary intention is to support the deaf community, those who have been completely shut out for too long and for whom sign language is their first or only means of communication. <BR /> <BR />It is vital that we hear from and prioritise those whose only method of communication is sign language. We must continue to listen to and act for those who are most directly impacted by the decisions that we make. In that context, as the Bill progresses beyond today, I want to ask the Minister and the Department to commit to continued meaningful engagement with the deaf community organisations on the development of the statutory guidance that will follow. That guidance will be critical.”
“<BR /> <BR />The amendments that are before us today make the best of what was passed at Consideration Stage. I completely understand that some people in the deaf community are anxious about opening up the Bill. It is important that the focus remains on those who need the legislation most. <BR /> <BR />I fully recognise that many people become deaf over time. I and my family live with a hereditary condition that means that we are likely to experience increasing deafness as time goes on. In those circumstances, it is more likely that we will rely on hearing technologies and other forms of support.”
“If that focus becomes too broad or unclear, there is a genuine risk that the Bill's core purpose is undermined. <BR /> <BR />There are also practical concerns that the Bill places duties on public bodies to make services as accessible to the deaf community as they are to others. If the definition of the community is widened too far, limited resources, such as funding, specialist expertise and the provision of information in sign language, risk being stretched too thinly. That could reduce the support available to those who rely on sign language as their first or only language, and that is really important. Those concerns are not about excluding anyone from learning or benefiting from sign language; they are about safeguarding the intent of the Bill and ensuring that it delivers meaningful change rather than becoming diluted in practice.”
“When children have meaningful access to language from the outset, outcomes improve across education, communication and wider development. It is, of course, a practical, evidence-based measure that will make a real difference to people's lives. <BR /> <BR />As the Bill has progressed there has rightly been careful consideration of how it is framed and how it will operate. In that context, I want to reflect concerns raised by the deaf community organisations, including the British Deaf Association Northern Ireland, that the Bill could be unintentionally diluted. The concern is that the changes to the definition of the deaf community risked weakening the Bill's focus. The recognition of British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language is rooted in shared language, culture and lived experience.”
“I also acknowledge the work of the Minister and his officials in bringing the Bill to this stage. In particular, I recognise the effort that has gone into tidying up and integrating the amendments, including amendment No 3, which deals with amendments made at the previous stage. That work has helped to ensure greater clarity and coherence in the Bill. It is important in making the legislation more workable as it moves towards implementation. <BR /> <BR />Amendment No 3 deals with eligibility categories, and I strongly welcome the focus on early access to sign language, particularly for children, young people under 25 and their families, guardians and carers. Early and free access to sign language for that grouping is critical.”
“Deaf people and their representative organisations have played a key role in shaping the Bill, and that engagement has, of course, strengthened it. It is important that that approach continues as we move beyond today and into implementation.”
“I welcome the opportunity to speak at the Further Consideration Stage of the Sign Language Bill. I place on record my appreciation for the engagement that has taken place throughout the passage of the Bill.”
“It further states that almost 20 lives are lost each week because of long waits in ED. That is a catastrophic situation. The fact that the winter plan was threadbare has been outlined to you. What will you do to ensure that other families are spared such grief and that no more lives are lost?”
“Minister, one line stands out in Royal College of Emergency Medicine's press release, which is that Northern Ireland:”
“I thank the Minister for that detailed answer and for giving us details on what was clearly a busy and worthwhile visit in which he represented not just the unionist community but all of the community in Northern Ireland. Will the Minister outline the cost and what he sees as the value of the visit to the US?”
“From the assessments of T:BUC that have been undertaken to date, will the deputy First Minister confirm that the programme has been a success and that we should now actively drive forward a refreshed programme to support the excellent work of the groups and organisations that have been involved?”
“<BR /> <BR />The Bill before us is clear in its intent and realistic in its delivery. It has been carefully developed, properly scrutinised and broadly supported. Above all, it sends a clear message to the deaf community that its language, culture and voice are recognised and valued. For those reasons, I am pleased to support the Bill at Consideration Stage, and I look forward to seeing it progress further.”
“<BR /> <BR />It is also important to recognise that the Bill does not exist in isolation; it sits within a wider context of how we support people, remove barriers and ensure that services are accessible to all. The Bill provides a strong foundation on which we can continue to work. It recognises sign language as an integral part of our society. It places a responsibility on Departments to reflect that in how they operate. There will, of course, always be calls to go further — that is the nature of any legislation — but it is important that we proceed in a way that is evidence-based and sustainable and that ensures delivery. The Minister has made it clear that, where further work is needed, it will be taken forward in a practical and measured way. That is the responsible approach, particularly in the current financial climate.”
“I also acknowledge the departmental officials and thank them for their work in drafting the legislation and supporting its progression through the Assembly. I know that that work has gone on over many years, and it is greatly appreciated. The amendments that the Minister tabled reflect that approach and strengthen the Bill. They provide clarity and ensure that the legislation is workable and deliverable in practice. Crucially, they do so without losing sight of the original purpose of the Bill, and that is the right balance to strike. It is not legislation for the sake of legislation; it is focused, proportionate and grounded in what will make a real difference.”
“It is about recognition, respect and, most importantly, improving the everyday lives of people across our communities who rely on British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language. For many in the deaf community, barriers still exist to accessing services, information and opportunities that others often take for granted. The Bill represents a clear and meaningful step towards addressing those barriers. It places a duty on Government not simply to acknowledge sign language but to actively promote it and to consider the needs of those who use it. That matters. <BR /> <BR />I record my appreciation of the Minister for Communities. He has approached the legislation in a thoughtful, measured and constructive way. It is clear that there has been genuine engagement with stakeholders and a willingness to listen throughout the process.”
“I rise to support the Sign Language Bill at Consideration Stage. I record my thanks to the Minister and the Chair of the Committee for outlining so well the work on the legislation as it made its way through Committee Stage. It is important to note that it is a complex, sensitive piece of legislation, and the Assembly has done itself proud in ensuring that those who are most important to that conversation — the deaf community — were very much heard and that we were able to hear them. The work that has been done by the House to facilitate that has been phenomenal and sets a great example going forward. This is important and timely legislation, and we are so glad to see it making its way through the Chamber.”
“I very much welcome the Minister's statement to the House this morning. It is good to hear about the contacts, the engagement and the positive message that he took to the US, as well as about the deliverables. Minister, what would you have achieved if you had just stayed at home?”
“I thank the Minister for his statement. He referred to revised modelling by the University of Sheffield in 2023. At the heart of that study was an acknowledgement that the estimates were unlikely to reflect the impact of minimum unit pricing on people who are addicted to alcohol and that additional support would be needed for that group if the policy was pursued. Did the Minister follow that advice when bringing plans for minimum unit pricing to the Executive? If not, will he give a concrete commitment to expanding inpatient and residential rehabilitation services?”
“I thank the Minister for her answer; I appreciate it. Will you provide a definitive publication date? I know that you are saying that it will be within the next number of days, but certainty is really important for the aviation sector and regional connectivity.”
“I thank the Minister for his answer. Has he engaged with the Economy Minister on the need to assess how this tax change might affect the childcare sector and the many parents across Northern Ireland who have seen childcare costs increase or settings close? Will the Minister revise his proposal to impose a real-terms cut on the childcare allocation in his multi-year Budget?”
“However, many other cases, including those involving grieving families, still face uncertainty and the real prospect of further and harmful delay. Therefore, I urge the Justice Minister to continue working urgently with the Bar Council and all relevant parties to resolve the dispute and restore normal court proceedings. Families who have already endured so much should not have to wait any longer for the justice that they deserve. <BR /> <BR />I have written to the Justice Minister to request a cross-party meeting with the family in the particular case. The family is anxious to hear whether the meeting will be granted.”
“Behind every case number is a real family; people who are trying to rebuild their lives after unimaginable loss. For them, justice delayed is not simply a procedural matter; it has a profound emotional and psychological impact. <BR /> <BR />I recognise that the issues surrounding legal aid and the sustainability of the criminal justice system are complex. However, it is vital that a resolution is found as quickly as possible, so that victims and their families are not left in limbo and their pain is not unnecessarily prolonged. I acknowledge that a limited number of cases have proceeded under derogation arrangements during the industrial action. That is, of course, welcome and has ensured that some matters have been able to move forward.”
“Today, I highlight the human cost of the ongoing barristers' strike in Northern Ireland and its impact on victims' families across the country. Recently, I met a constituent and her only son, whose husband and father tragically lost his life in a workplace incident several years ago. Since the horror of that day, that family has been waiting patiently for justice through the courts. The trial in their case is scheduled for later this year, but, like many others, the case faces a real possibility of further delay due to the current industrial action by the legal profession. The court process has already been long and deeply painful for that family. They have attended court on numerous occasions, only to have hearings postponed. Each delay reopens wounds and prolongs the uncertainty that they must live with every day.”
“I thank the Member for that very detailed answer. We all, as Members of the Assembly, recognise how busy this place is and how many visitors we have. That is wonderful, because this is the people's Parliament, and it belongs to them. While the proceedings are broadcast and recorded, does the Commission accept that many people are not able to visit the Building in person to engage in that outreach? Some people still find it difficult to understand the workings of the Assembly. Has consideration been given to producing simplified summaries of Assembly business to improve public understanding of the work that is done here?”
“It is important that the Child Maintenance Service is fair to parents and children. Will the Minister outline what the improvements will be following the review?”
“We also reaffirm our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls. Every woman and girl has the right to safety, dignity and respect. Frameworks and strategies must be matched by delivery and accountability. <BR /> <BR />International Women's Day is about celebrating achievement, but it is also about confidence. It is about standing proud together and supporting one another to achieve our full potential. It is about encouraging young girls to believe that there are no limits to their ambition. It is about saying clearly and confidently, "We are women, and our contribution matters". Let us continue to build a Northern Ireland where women are supported, barriers are removed, families are strengthened and the next generation can pursue their dreams with confidence.”
“We will continue to press for improved endometriosis pathways and better outcomes across women's health. <BR /> <BR />We must remove barriers wherever they exist, whether that is in employment, entrepreneurship, rural life or public service. Women in rural communities in particular often face additional pressures in balancing work, family and caring responsibilities. Practical support and sensible policy must reflect those realities. <BR /> <BR />While we celebrate progress, we must address the challenges that persist. Women in public life continue to face unacceptable levels of abuse and intimidation, particularly online. No woman should be deterred from standing for election or engaging in debate by harassment or degrading content. We must stand firmly against that behaviour.”
“Affordable and accessible childcare remains one of the greatest challenges facing working mothers and young families. If we are serious about enabling women to participate fully in the workforce or to pursue leadership roles, childcare provision must be sustainable, flexible and properly supported. Reducing pressures from such challenges is not just a women's issue; it is an economic necessity. <BR /> <BR />We must do more to improve healthcare provision for women. Conditions such as endometriosis can be debilitating, yet too many women face long delays in getting a diagnosis and access to appropriate treatment and preoperative services. That is simply not good enough. Women deserve timely care, proper resourcing of specialist services and a health system that listens to their concerns.”
“I welcome the opportunity to speak in support of the motion, which marks International Women's Day 2026. International Women's Day gives us the chance to recognise the invaluable contribution that women make across our society: in our workplaces, in our schools, in our hospitals, in our churches, in our voluntary organisations, in our businesses, on our farms and in our homes and communities. Women are central to the strength, stability and success of Northern Ireland. This year's theme of "Give to gain" is particularly fitting. When we support women, create opportunity and remove barriers, we do not disadvantage anyone; we strengthen families, communities and our economy. <BR /> <BR />As a party, the DUP has consistently raised the practical issues that matter to women and families.”
“I thank the Minister for her answer. I appreciate that the Minister may not have the information with her, but, if she could follow up, that would be good. Can the Minister confirm what proportion of that projected loss relates specifically to socially necessary services funded through the PSO? Has a root analysis been undertaken to assess those services and see whether they can be delivered more efficiently?”