Claire Sugden
East Londonderry · Independent · Northern Ireland
“That is, gosh, almost 35 years ago, yet we are still having the conversation in 2026. If I were to speak to that eight-year-old girl, I would tell her, "When you are 40, Claire, this will not even be a consideration for you". Sadly, however, it still is. It is deeply disappointing that, when we had an opportunity, it was not taken.”
“Indeed, I tabled an amendment to that Bill to achieve the desired outcome, but, sadly, the opportunity was not taken. One of the strengths of the Assembly is that Committees can identify where Executive legislation has fallen short and produce their own practical, targeted solutions.”
“Frankly, we should be listening. Sometimes, we talk about equality in broad terms, but the Bill reminds us that equality is often about practical things. It is about removing unnecessary barriers from everyday life and ensuring that opportunities and choices do not depend on arbitrary differences between schools.”
“That is ridiculous. The point that we should all pay attention to is that of girls feeling less exposed. We should focus on that even if there were no other reasons to pass the legislation. Girls simply want to get on with their school day without having to think about something that most boys take for granted.”
“That meeting was a reminder that issues that can appear small to adults — there have been adults who have asked why the Assembly is legislating on this — can be issues on which we need to legislate. When people do not behave appropriately, we as a legislature have a responsibility to legislate.”
“Around one in seven couples in Northern Ireland experiences fertility problems, yet Northern Ireland continues to offer one of the most limited publicly funded fertility services anywhere in the United Kingdom. Couples face lengthy waits, restricted eligibility criteria and fewer publicly funded IVF opportunities than elsewhere.”
The complete record
Every one of 2,208 lines we hold for Claire Sugden, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 10 of 45.
“<BR /> <BR />Ms McLaughlin and the junior Minister referred to age discrimination legislation. There has been a conversation about that for a number of years. We have had promises and commitments to take it forward, but it has not happened. As the independent Member, I hope to make legislation happen, subject to the Speaker's say-so. It is critical, given that we are the only region in the UK and Ireland not to have that legislation in place. There is a model that works.”
“<BR /> <BR />I appreciate Alliance's commitment to consider the older population. If everybody supports the motion, including the parties who have Members at the Executive table, we should get an outcome. We should get the issue into the Programme for Government and start moving forward. I do not want this to be a debate that is recorded with that being all we do with it. As the Member who led the debate, I will follow up the actions that the Assembly is likely to support. The matter may not be in the specific remit of those who sit at the Executive table, but, as discussed, it is a cross-departmental issue and everyone at the table has a voice, so I encourage them to take it forward. Anything that Members can do to encourage their Ministers to do that would be really helpful.”
“Given that, because of d'Hondt, this is the first time that I have had the opportunity to lead on a motion — it is not the first time that I have spoken on a motion; I hope that Members realise that — I did not want to look at it as one specific issue but at how we, as a Government and as an Assembly, can do better in taking our services forward. <BR /> <BR />Every week, we hear about how this place is not performing. If we looked at it strategically, however, we could probably fix a lot of the problems that we see in Northern Ireland. That would not happen overnight — of course it will not — but it would happen in 10 years. I have been here for 11 years, and, sadly, all the problems that we are discussing now are the ones that we discussed 11 years ago, and they have got worse. That is why we need to start having those conversations now.”
“I am mindful that the mandate is due to end in two years and that what we can do in that time is limited. I appreciate that the Executive have already set out their policies and legislation, but let us get the wheels in motion so that we can start moving forward. The issue will not end with the current Government; it is an issue that we need to take forward with consistency. <BR /> <BR />I appreciate Robbie Butler's comments and those of other Members who acknowledged that it is not just about older people but about our wider system and services.”
“I appreciate that the junior Minister indicated that over one third of the consultation responses were from people over 55, and I am not surprised by that as older people are one of the most engaged and active groups in our society. However, I hope that that is not all and that we see a tangible outcome. To an extent, I would be content if we even paid lip service to that, because, at least, then we would be thinking about the future and about Northern Ireland. It is not enough to say that it is for all ages, because what I am raising is specifically and critically about age and our ageing population. The junior Ministers should feel free to intervene on that if the First Ministers have given them the authority to do so. Will we see a specific outcome-based ask in the Programme for Government so that we can start planning for this now?”
“Their conditions were probably as critical as those of the people who arrived after them and those of the people who arrived before them: they were just in the queue like everybody else. Equally, as well as older people weeping, children were crying at 2.00 am. I cannot emphasise enough that the debate is not just about the older people but about everyone in Northern Ireland. If we do not get a grip on the fact that we have an ageing population and on the demand that that will place on our public services, we will see that more and more. <BR /> <BR />I am really pleased that all parties have indicated that they will support the motion, but it includes a specific ask about what should be included in the Programme for Government.”
“One of the reasons for the growth of our prison population is that prisoners are living longer. It is not just about health and social care or community transport; it is about how everyone is affected. It is about supply and demand: as we are living longer, there will be more of us, so our services really need to adapt accordingly. <BR /> <BR />I will not reiterate too much the comments made by other Members, but I will try to pick up on their points. It is very much about health and social care, and we see that acutely. About 18 months ago, I found myself in Antrim Area Hospital's accident and emergency department, and what really struck me was the number of older people sitting around me who were weeping in pain.”
“I expect all of us to have access to and be entitled to our public services as we grow old with dignity. <BR /> <BR />The crux of the debate is not necessarily how our public services directly impact on older people; the debate is about the strategy that the Northern Ireland Executive must take to protect all public services in Northern Ireland. Regrettably, we see public services around us crumbling due to the fact that we have never engaged in forward planning. Look at our GP services. If we had planned in that area 10 years ago, maybe people would be able to get an appointment. As Members from around the Chamber have indicated, the issue really impacts on all aspects of our public services. I recall what the Justice Minister said yesterday about prison populations.”
“Thank you, Mr Speaker. When I was co-opted as an MLA nearly 11 years ago, I felt that the most important thing for me to do was get out into my constituency so that I could get to know the people whom I was representing and, equally, they could get to know me. What I was struck by in East Londonderry was the number of really active older people and the community groups that facilitate them. That has driven my interest as an MLA in advocating for older people on various issues, so much so that I established the all-party group on ageing and older people 10 years ago today. We will celebrate that milestone anniversary. I am driven by that because it is important that we look after the people who looked after us. I declare an interest in that, as should everyone. Hopefully, we will all have the honour of being able to grow old some day.”
“I urge all Members to support the motion and to commit to securing a future where we can all age with dignity, security and confidence.”
“<BR /> <BR />The evidence is clear: our population is ageing; our public services are under strain; and, without action, we face serious consequences. That is not just a warning — I hope that this debate is not just an echo chamber conversation — it is a call for action. We have an opportunity to shape the future, to build a society that values and supports people at every stage in their life and to do something useful in the Assembly to reflect the needs of the people outside this Building. A strategic, cross-departmental plan for ageing is not just necessary but essential for the sustainability of public services and the well-being of every citizen in Northern Ireland. We must invest, we must adapt and we must act now.”
“Despite clear evidence that that demographic change will impact on every aspect of public life, there is no recognition of that challenge in their current plans. The Executive's failure to address the issue is short-sighted and irresponsible. Without a strategic approach, public services are becoming overwhelmed, inequalities are worsening and economic stability is at risk. We need decisive leadership that acknowledges the long-term implications of an ageing society and that takes action to ensure that our public services, workforce and infrastructure are prepared. The Government need to prepare. The absence of an ageing population plan in the Programme for Government is a glaring omission that must be rectified in the final draft. We cannot afford to wait any longer.”
“We need proper digital literacy programmes and alternative ways for people to access services so that they do not fall through the cracks, which we have seen happen in Executive programmes. <BR /> <BR />Loneliness is a major issue that the Assembly has talked about at length. We know that social exclusion leads to poor mental and physical health, yet too many older people feel cut off from their communities. We need better social infrastructure, places to meet, community groups and support networks to make sure that older people stay engaged and connected. <BR /> <BR />It is deeply concerning for me, and it should be concerning for the Assembly, that the Northern Ireland Executive have failed to adequately consider the reality of our ageing population in their current draft Programme for Government.”
“We need policies that support older workers to stay in employment and encourage younger people into key industries. <BR /> <BR />Many older people rely on public transport to stay independent, yet services, especially in rural areas, are simply not good enough. If we are serious about inclusion, we must make transport accessible, reliable and affordable for those who need it most. <BR /> <BR />With fewer people of working age paying taxes and more individuals drawing pensions, there will be growing pressures on public finances. The Government need to act now to make sure that pension systems are sustainable and that older people are protected from financial hardship. More and more essential services are now moving online, but many older people feel left behind.”
“Our health system is too reactive and too busy fighting the fires. We need to invest in early detection, frailty prevention and long-term condition management. Supporting people to stay healthy for longer will ease the burden on acute hospital services. <BR /> <BR />More older people need accessible, age-appropriate housing, yet demand for social housing is at an all-time high whilst supply remains critically low. Many older people live in homes that are no longer suitable, but they have no alternative. If we do not fix this, we will see more preventable falls, more hospital admissions and more pressure on care services. We already have labour shortages in key sectors such as healthcare, social care, retail and hospitality. An ageing population means fewer working-age people, and, without planning, our economy will struggle.”
“<BR /> <BR />Without strategic planning, we are setting ourselves up for failure. Right now, 80% of care packages in Northern Ireland are for older people, and the number of people living with dementia is set to treble in the next three decades, yet, instead of increasing capacity, we are seeing cuts to care home beds and domiciliary care services. Without proper planning, our health and social care system will simply not cope. This is not just about older people. More pressure on hospitals, GPs and emergency departments means longer waiting lists for everyone. If we do not plan for an ageing population, every patient, young and old, will feel the impact. They already are. As the UK's Chief Medical Officer, Chris Whitty, has highlighted, prevention and early intervention must be at the heart of ageing population planning.”
“<BR /> <BR />Before I speak to the challenges, I first acknowledge the vital contribution of our older people. They are essential to our communities as volunteers, carers and mentors and are often the ones holding families together. They are the childcare that the Executive have promised but so far not provided. They are filling the gaping holes that the Northern Ireland Executive tend to overlook, yet they continue to work, pay taxes and contribute to our economy in significant ways. Recognising their contribution is not only fair but absolutely necessary. A society that plans well for ageing does not merely support its older citizens; it benefits all generations. A well-supported older population means a stronger economy, healthier communities and a more resilient public sector.”
“The current models are still largely based on a younger population profile that no longer reflects the reality of Northern Ireland today. Without strategic planning and reform, our public services will continue to face challenges in delivering effective support to our changing society. By 2040, one in four people here will be over 65, and, by 2070, for every two working-age people, there will be one pensioner. That shift presents challenges and opportunities, but what is certain is that failing to act now will lead to avoidable crises in healthcare, social care, housing, transport and the economy. The motion calls for a cross-departmental strategy to ensure that we meet the needs of our ageing society. It is a call for leadership, vision, responsibility and common sense and, critically, it is a call for action.”
“Public services are crumbling and, if we do not strategically plan for our changing demographics, the situation will only deteriorate further over the next decade. If we fail to act now, we are consigning future generations to a system that will have inevitably collapsed due to unsustainable pressure. <BR /> <BR />In 20 years, Northern Ireland has experienced a significant demographic shift. In 2001, the median age of our population was 34 years. By 2011, it had risen to 37, and in 2022, it reached 40. That trend reflects a growing proportion of older individuals in society, and, conversely, the percentage of children under 16 decreased from 24% in 2001 to 19% in 2021. Despite those clear demographic changes, our public services have not adapted accordingly.”
“This issue is not just about those in later life. It affects us all right now. The growing demands of an ageing population are already placing significant strain on our health and social care services, our workforce and our communities. This is not a problem for the future; it is a crisis unfolding today. We see it daily in every accident and emergency department across Northern Ireland, with patients waiting not hours but days to receive treatment, many of whom are older people who are weeping in pain and going without food or medication until it is their turn. As elected representatives, what are we doing — or, rather, not doing — when our hospitals are no longer safe in 2025?”
“This is my first opportunity in nearly 11 years as an independent MLA to lead private Member's business. I have chosen to focus on the issue of strategic planning for an ageing population. I believe that it is the most important and necessary action that this Government and Assembly can take for the future of all public services in Northern Ireland.”
“I thank the Minister for that answer. My biggest concern for courthouses across Northern Ireland is primarily access to justice, but also the impact on rural areas of removing courthouses. As part of the review, will the Minister look at an impact assessment to ensure that we take into account all the aspects of why not having a courthouse is a good thing?”
“The safety of women and girls demands our attention to ensure that every individual, regardless of background, can live without fear. Let us focus our efforts on tangible, immediate actions that make our community safer and more respectful for everyone.”
“We need swift and decisive action when crimes are reported, sentencing outcomes that reflect the harm that is being caused, and timely investigations and processes. We need proper support for victims, and we need to make sure that perpetrators are dealt with appropriately so that women have confidence in the system. <BR /> <BR />We need to be clear about the realities of violence against women and girls. While individuals from any background can be responsible for the behaviour, it is important to focus on facts rather than assumptions led by misinformation or prejudice. Most perpetrators are known to their victims — they are their partners, relatives, colleagues or acquaintances — and shifting blame to specific groups without any evidence only distracts from addressing the real and systemic issues at hand.”
“<BR /> <BR />Although women face harassment, stalking and exploitation on social media platforms, Northern Ireland is not doing enough in that space. We could review the Malicious Communications Act 1988, otherwise it is just redundant legislation. We could introduce stalking protection orders to intervene earlier in cases of persistent harassment. <BR /> <BR />As ever, tackling the issues requires a joined-up approach that goes beyond a reactive police response. Local councils have a role to play: better street lighting, more and more active CCTV in key areas and better maintenance of public spaces can make a real difference to making women feel safe. The justice system also really needs to improve.”
“The unsettling reality for women is that we have always navigated a world that is fraught with potential dangers, both public and private. For women, even walking in public in familiar spaces often requires a heightened sense of awareness. When doing simple things that many men take for granted, such as coming home after dark, we clutch keys between our fingers, we avoid certain routes and we get our phones ready to call for help. That constant state of alert is a lived reality for women and girls. The threat, however, is not confined to public spaces. Our homes, which should be havens of safety, are frequently places of unreported distress, and 32,763 incidents were reported to the PSNI last year.”
“Recent events in Coleraine have once again highlighted the issue of women and girls' safety in Northern Ireland, the threat to which is pervasive. The discovery of a bag containing suspicious items near a family home has understandably caused distress in our community. Although the police indicated that the incident was domestic, other recent reports of women being followed in the area highlight the range of dangers that women face every day. I commend the police in Causeway Coast and Glens for their quick response to the recent event. They worked tirelessly throughout the week to get a result, which we will see in court today. <BR /> <BR />Regrettably, Coleraine is not unique. The vulnerabilities experienced by women there reflect wider issues across Northern Ireland.”
“I call on the Executive to deliver a cross-departmental approach that ensures that carers have the support that they need in the round.”
“Many carers go for years without a break, sacrificing their own well-being. In a modern, compassionate society, which we would like to think that we are, that should not be the norm. We must create a system in which carers are not forced to choose between their survival and the well-being of those for whom they care. <BR /> <BR />This is about principles. It is about recognising that, at some point in our life, every one of us may become a carer or rely on one. If we do not act now, we send a message that carers' sacrifices are expected but definitely not respected. I urge the Minister to explore bringing forward an additional carer's allowance. I appreciate the financial constraints, but we must start the conversation and get the ball rolling.”
“It is an all-consuming responsibility that comes without proper respite and support. That respite does not exist. A constituent who was recently diagnosed with progressive cancer has an adult son with learning disabilities. He is terrified about what will happen to his son, not least because he cannot get respite now whilst he is here. <BR /> <BR />People are being left physically, mentally and emotionally drained. Too many find themselves isolated, burned out and struggling to cope. If we truly value our carers, we must provide access to proper respite services, paid carer's leave and practical workplace support to allow them to balance caring responsibilities with employment, which is a significant part of their life. <BR /> <BR />The stories speak for themselves.”
“I recently spoke to a constituent who had to give up her career to care for her husband. She had no choice. The financial strain has been overwhelming for her, and the stress of navigating an inadequate support system has only added to that. She is not alone in that struggle, as we have heard from across the House. I strongly support the introduction of a carer's allowance supplement, because the evidence is clear: similar schemes elsewhere, such as the one in Scotland, have made a tangible difference in lifting carers out of hardship. It is a simple yet effective way to acknowledge their contribution and provide some financial breathing room for those who give so much of themselves. However, as others have said, the debate has to go beyond financial support, because being a carer is not just a role.”
“Despite sacrifices, carers continue to be overlooked in our social security system. The reality is stark. Many are living in poverty, unable to afford even the basics, all the while providing the care that our overstretched health and social care system is not able to provide. <BR /> <BR />Carer's allowance remains shockingly low, equating to just over £2 an hour for providing full-time care. Worse still, strict eligibility criteria mean that many who dedicate themselves to caring receive no financial support at all. That cannot continue. This is not a financial issue; it is a moral issue. Were it a financial issue, we would be asking for more. We must ask ourselves how acceptable it is that those who give so much to others are left struggling to survive.”
“I support the motion and the amendment. I commend Mr Carroll for bringing his first motion to the House after nine years in the Assembly, which is remarkable. The importance of the motion is to acknowledge the essential yet undervalued role of our unpaid carers. Thousands across Northern Ireland give their life to caring for loved ones, often at great personal and financial cost. They do not do it for recognition or reward, but that does not mean that they do not deserve more fairness, dignity and meaningful support from the Assembly and the Executive. As others have said, imagine what our society would look like without paid carers. The health and social care system in Northern Ireland would collapse; it is on the brink. We are taking their commitment for granted.”
“We must ensure that schools, parents and young people understand the risks associated with nicotine addiction and that cessation support is readily available for those who need it. <BR /> <BR />I support the motion, because it is the right step towards a healthier Northern Ireland. It protects future generations, strengthens regulation and addresses the evolving challenges of tobacco and nicotine use. While there are complexities and challenges, we must not lose sight of the fundamental goal, which is reducing addiction, saving lives and easing the burden on our health service.”
“It is an unacceptable constraint on our ability to protect lives. <BR /> <BR />The legislation alone will not solve the problem. We need to ensure that enforcement mechanisms are properly funded and that public awareness campaigns accompany the changes. Retailers must be supported in complying with the new regulations, and public health messaging must continue to evolve, particularly in relation to vaping. As others have said, education is also key. In GB, clinics have been set up with the aim of treating nicotine addiction amongst children as young as 11 years old. That highlights the scale of the issue and the need for intervention at both legislative and public awareness levels.”
“It is not just the case with tobacco legislation; Northern Ireland has diverged from the rest of the UK on multiple policy fronts, creating a situation where we are unable to implement laws that benefit our citizens. The fact that we must navigate EU rules while the rest of the UK is free to act underscores a wider issue of fairness and sovereignty. We should have the same ability to enact legislation that protects lives, yet the Windsor framework limits us in doing so. It is not a technical issue; it is a fundamental failure of democratic representation. If those legal challenges arise, they will be addressed, but we must recognise how serious the situation is becoming. Northern Ireland risks being unable to implement vital public health policies while the rest of the United Kingdom moves forward.”
“<BR /> <BR />There have been discussions regarding the legal implications of the generational smoking ban under the Windsor framework and EU law. While those complexities must be addressed, they should not stand in the way of implementing critical public health measures. The expansion of the Northern Ireland tobacco retail register to include vapes and nicotine products will provide the necessary oversight to ensure compliance and enforcement of the new regulations. <BR /> <BR />As for the legal complexities, the Windsor framework once again highlights how Northern Ireland is uniquely constrained compared with the rest of the United Kingdom. Whilst England, Scotland and Wales can take decisive action on matters of public health, we remain bound by EU directives without democratic input or control.”
“One of the most valuable contributions to our consideration of the LCM has come from young people. The Northern Ireland Youth Assembly has expressed strong support for measures to regulate vaping and to prevent the next generation from becoming addicted to nicotine. It has also raised concerns about ensuring adequate support for those who are already addicted to vapes and the potential enforcement challenges of banning smoking in more public places. Their voices remind us that the legislation is not just for today or for us but for the future generations who will live in a healthier Northern Ireland because of the steps that we are taking today. Their concerns about enforcement and public awareness are valid, and it is incumbent on us to ensure that the regulations are not only robust but effectively communicated and implemented.”
“While vapes have been promoted as a cessation tool for smokers, they have also become alarmingly attractive to young people who have never smoked. The bright packaging, sweet flavours and targeted marketing towards teenagers have created an entirely new public health issue. The Bill seeks to curb that trend and rightly so. <BR /> <BR />We cannot afford to become complacent. I have seen at first hand the devastating impact of smoking. My father died of lung cancer caused by smoking 15 years after he gave it up. This is not just a policy debate; it is about protecting lives and ensuring that future generations do not suffer the same fate as me and my family. <BR /> <BR />We know that the vast majority of smokers take up the habit in their youth. By preventing young people from ever legally purchasing tobacco, we remove that gateway.”
“Smoking remains one of the biggest public health challenges of our time. It burdens our health service, devastates families and generates enormous economic costs. The introduction of smoke-free legislation ensuring that those born after 2009 will never legally purchase tobacco is a necessary step towards eradicating the cycle of addiction and ill health associated with smoking. Beyond traditional tobacco, we must also acknowledge the rise in youth vaping, which has become a growing concern. Take, for example, the case of a 17-year-old who began vaping at 12 and was hospitalised after coughing up blood due to severe lung damage. His story is not unique. Across the United Kingdom, hospitals treat increasing numbers of young people suffering from vaping-related illnesses.”
“I support the legislative consent motion (LCM), through which I see an opportunity for better public health, particularly in Northern Ireland, where smoking continues to be one of the leading causes of preventable death. In March 2024, then Health Minister Swann confirmed Northern Ireland's inclusion in the UK Tobacco and Vapes Bill, with the Assembly endorsing the plan later that May, thereby aligning this region with national efforts to phase out smoking for future generations and demonstrating a strong commitment to tackling smoking-related deaths. Today is the tangible outcome of our commitment to tackling smoking- and vaping-related harm by translating it into effective legislation. Furthermore, plans to ban the sale of single-use vapes by April 2025 demonstrate a proactive approach to public health as well as environmental concerns.”
“I thank the Minister for her interest. It seems as though no one from the Northern Ireland Executive is leading on it; indeed, I have questioned both Departments about it. Northern Ireland needs a veterinary school, and Coleraine is the most obvious place for it. Will the Minister reconfirm her commitment to that, if that is what Ulster University wants?”
“I congratulate the Minister on her new role. I am really pleased for our constituency.”
“Minister, have you explored the opportunity to create a Northern Ireland version of the warm homes discount scheme?”
“Northern Ireland has proven that it can deliver world-class events, but we must do more than just host them. We must leverage them for long-term success, and the Open in 2025 is not just about golf but about our economy, our communities and our future.”
“<BR /> <BR />We know from the previous time the Open was here that, although it was a resounding success, there were challenges. Some businesses felt sidelined, transport and accessibility issues caused frustration and the wider economic potential was not fully harnessed. This time, we must and can do better. The Northern Ireland Executive and Tourism NI should work with local businesses and the hospitality sector to ensure that they reap the rewards of increased visitor numbers, both during and after the event. Our Government should be leading the charge in ensuring a lasting legacy, whether through improving sporting infrastructure, supporting small businesses or using this global platform to tell a positive story about Northern Ireland.”
“<BR /> <BR />I do, however, believe that the Northern Ireland Executive are missing opportunities. Events of this scale do not just bring short-term economic benefits; they have the potential to open up long-term gains in tourism, trade and investment, yet it seems that the Executive are limited in their approach to capitalising on these opportunities. Where is the ambition to secure future major sporting events? Where is the plan to promote Northern Ireland as a global destination off the back of millions of viewers watching this tournament, set in one of the most stunning links courses in the world? Where is the real engagement with businesses to help them to maximise the benefits, not just for the week of the Open but for years to come?”
“This year, my constituency is, once again, hosting the British Open, one of the world's most prestigious sporting events. More than just a golf tournament, the Open is a major opportunity to showcase the very best of our local area and Northern Ireland as a whole. I acknowledge the work of the R&A; its commitment to bringing the Open back to Royal Portrush is a testament to the success of the event in 2019 and the quality of our local courses. Its investment and belief in our ability to host a tournament of that scale should not go unrecognised. I also commend Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and the various statutory agencies that have been working hard to put in place plans on transport infrastructure and event management to ensure that the tournament runs smoothly and that local people are engaged in the process.”
“I thank the Minister for his answer. Minister, can we some more details of a response plan should foot-and-mouth disease come to Northern Ireland? We can all recall when it came back in 2001 and the devastation that it caused, particularly to the economy. Does he have any plans to deal with that, particularly for compensation, should we find ourselves in a similar position?”
“The conversation today is about how, certainly for my constituents and me, that begins with the Riverside Theatre. If we remove it, what are we saying to the people who are not sporty or do not do the things that tend to get more investment than the arts in Northern Ireland? It is really important for our generation and for future generations that we continue to invest in the arts, not least the Riverside Theatre, which is well established. It is a great facility, and it would be a real shame to lose it. If the Minister can do anything alongside the Economy Minister, we should look at that.”