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.”
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“I was also prepared to accept the arrangements under the protocol on the promises that the benefits would be realised. How many years in are we, and what are those benefits? I am happy to take interventions. <BR /> <BR />The current arrangements under articles 5 to 10 of the protocol have created as many problems as they have solved. I believe that that falls significantly short of serving the people of Northern Ireland — all the people.”
“We must now focus on solutions that protect Northern Ireland's interests without losing sight of fairness, inclusion and practicality. <BR /> <BR />I know how important it is to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland. Indeed, I know how important it is to avoid a hard border in the Irish Sea. It is not just a political issue. It is about safeguarding peace, ensuring cooperation and enabling a two-way market in Northern Ireland that is as seamless within the east-west jurisdiction as it is outside that jurisdiction, North/South. I was prepared to accept the arrangements under the protocol in good faith that the practical issues would be resolved, but it seems that, day by day and week by week, more issues are arising.”
“As an independent and constitutional unionist, I like to think that I approach issues from the perspective of practical governance that works for everyone in Northern Ireland. My unionism is not abstract ideals or rigid ideology. It is about ensuring that Northern Ireland remains a prosperous, stable and equal part of the United Kingdom. It is about creating the best possible context for delivering public services, supporting businesses and serving all communities — unionists, nationalists and those who identify as neither. <BR /> <BR />I voted to remain in the European Union because I believed that it offered economic, social and political stability for Northern Ireland. However, we are long past the point of criticising the outcome of Brexit without any real effect.”
“Thank you, Minister, for your response. I am pleased to hear that you are working with other Departments to try to coordinate a transport approach. I encourage you to look in particular at the impact on rural areas. It can take up to an hour to get from Coleraine to Castlerock on a public transport bus, whereas it takes 10 minutes in a car. If community transport can take customers to the bus stop, there are ways that we can do that better. Are there any more conversations that we can have about medical transport? I know that a lot of people are paying privately for that service, and the cost is quite significant.”
“We must also foster a culture in which survivors feel safe to come forward and where attitudes that enable abuse are systematically dismantled. <BR /> <BR />The 40th anniversary of Nexus is a moment to reflect on resilience, progress and partnership, but it is also a solemn reminder of the work that remains. As we move forward, let us be guided by the vision of a society free from abuse, a society where women and girls can thrive without fear. I urge the Assembly to fully support the motion. Let us continue to prioritise the fight against sexual abuse and abusive relationships, champion the work of Nexus and other organisations and honour the courage of survivors. Together we can build a safer, more compassionate Northern Ireland.”
“Their dedication is a lifeline to those in need, providing safety, guidance and hope in the face of unspeakable trauma. It was right that the Department of Health extended Nexus's contract before the summer, but the handling of the issue — the last-minute decision-making — tells me that the Government have much to learn. We all have much to learn. We need only look to our neighbours in the Republic of Ireland to see that our efforts and resources are the tip of the iceberg when it comes to comprehensively addressing the issue. <BR /> <BR />Ending sexual abuse and abusive relationships requires leadership, collaboration and unwavering commitment. As Members of the Assembly, we must ensure that the resources and support that organisations such as Nexus need are not only sustained but expanded.”
“We all must be committed to the strategy and to creating a society in which abuse is not tolerated, victims are supported, and perpetrators are held to account. The vital role that training and capacity-building play in achieving those goals must not be underestimated. Nexus has led the way by training over 500 police officers and members of the Public Prosecution Service's (PPS) serious crime unit to better handle cases of rape and sexual crime. Such efforts are instrumental in ensuring that there is a trauma-informed response across the justice system. <BR /> <BR />Today, we commend not only Nexus but the countless staff, volunteers and partner organisations that work tirelessly to combat sexual abuse and domestic violence.”
“Northern Ireland is one of the most dangerous places to be a woman. That is not an exaggeration; it is not open to whataboutery or diluted forms that ignore the problem. It is a shocking and unacceptable reality that underscores the critical need for the work of Nexus and other organisations. It also highlights the importance of the strategic framework to end violence against women and girls, with the goal of addressing gender-based violence at its rotten core. <BR /> <BR />In September, the cross-departmental domestic and sexual abuse strategy was published. It is built on the five pillars of partnership; prevention; children and young people; support and provision; and justice. It emphasises the need for a whole-of-society approach.”
“The impact extends beyond the immediate victim, disrupting lives, eroding trust and casting long shadows over generations. It is a hidden shame in our society that must be confronted with courage and compassion. It is the responsibility of us all to bring attention to those issues, to ensure that survivors receive the support and justice that they deserve and to create a culture that rejects abuse in all its forms. <BR /> <BR />While we reflect on Nexus's remarkable journey, we must confront a stark reality. Violence against women and girls persists at alarming levels in Northern Ireland. Over 32,000 domestic abuse incidents were recorded last year, which is more than one and half times higher than the figure 20 years ago. Forty-two women have lost their lives to violence since 2017.”
“As well as providing critical therapeutic services, Nexus has been active in early intervention, education and prevention through training and workshops in schools, communities and organisations. Since 2019, Nexus has also managed the regional domestic and sexual abuse helpline, which offers a lifeline to those in desperate need. That invaluable service reflects its unwavering commitment to victims and survivors, regardless of their age, gender or circumstances. <BR /> <BR />Sexual abuse and abusive relationships are a profound human tragedy, inflicting deep and enduring harm on individuals, families and communities. Those crimes often occur in silence, hidden from view, leaving survivors to carry an immense burden of pain and a shame that should never be theirs to bear.”
“The motion is the first of the mandate to be led by the Women's Caucus, an important cross-party forum comprised of all the current women MLAs. Its aims are to address the under-representation of women in politics and highlight the importance of women in public life. As elected representatives, we are committed not only to advancing gender equality but to being a voice on critical issues such as gender-based violence, abuse and harm. Through our shared objectives, we strive to create a society in which all individuals can live free from fear and violence. <BR /> <BR />Nexus began, 40 years ago, as a small volunteer group responding to a number of rapes in south Belfast. Today, it is an established beacon of hope and resilience that provides support to adults, children and young people impacted by sexual abuse.”
“Thank you, Deputy Speaker. It is with appreciation and reflection that I mark the 40th anniversary of Nexus. This milestone is a recognition not just of the many years that have passed but of the lives that have been transformed and the progress that has been made in the fight against sexual and abusive relationships in Northern Ireland. As Chairperson of the Northern Ireland Assembly Women's Caucus, I believe that it is appropriate that we unite to recognise Nexus's remarkable contributions, while acknowledging the ongoing need for collective action against the horrific abuses that, sadly, remain frequent across our society.”
“First Minister, the engagement of older people is also important. Do you have an update on the appointment of the Older People's Commissioner, as the current commissioner is leaving his post today?”
“Minister, I have consistently raised with you the impact of second home ownership, particularly in areas such as the north coast. Ultimately, the solution is to build more houses, particularly social and affordable homes, and your statement goes into that. However, as part of the strategy, will the Minister commit to looking at that particular issue to see whether there are ways in which we need to do more in those areas?”
“As the only Member who does not receive financial assistance for political parties, my question is this: does the Member have a view on how we better support independents? I am the longest-serving independent Member — 10 years — and would gratefully receive that support.”
“Thank you, Minister. Does the Minister have any concerns about the Education Authority's (EA) recent decision not to proceed with a contract with Fujitsu for over £5 million?”
“Everyone in the Chamber will have heard that from their staff who have tried to help people. It is the same old story. We go from month to month saying these things upon hearing the same stories, and, although we need to raise awareness in Homelessness Awareness Week, it is important that we also take action. Otherwise, our words will just be in vain.”
“Although we all stand here united in support of addressing homelessness, it is really frustrating that no tangible change will realistically happen any time soon, because we are not building more social and affordable homes, and certainly not enough to maintain the current proposed figures for new builds. <BR /> <BR />On a positive note in Homelessness Awareness Week, we have to acknowledge the fact that the homelessness sector does great work. I have already spoken about the tireless work of Women's Aid, but we should also recognise other organisations, such as the Simon Community, that provide stability where, sadly, our Government do not. The work that those organisations do is often done under a lot pressure, and it is highly emotional and draining.”
“That has an obvious knock-on effect on demand for the provision of social housing and on homelessness. I do not know how we fix that. I remain unconvinced that increasing rates will have much of an impact. Ultimately, we need more social and affordable homes. <BR /> <BR />I appreciate the challenge of building more homes. Even if the Minister for Communities had the money, the next hurdle would be planning and waste water infrastructure, and there would probably be another hurdle after that. That is why we really need to take a cross-departmental approach and have a commitment that Ministers and Governments will work together to address what is a growing crisis. We need to see such action now. We are 10 months into a shortened mandate.”
“Imagine being in your eighties and being told that your home is being sold and that you will have to find somewhere else to live. That is not easy for an elderly person, particularly one who is alone and does not have family support. Finding somewhere else to live is difficult, particularly on the north coast. For several years now, I have talked at length about the impact of second-home ownership on the north coast. Staggering house prices and high rents are forcing long-term tenants away from the area, which is just not an option for people who need to be near their services and families.”
“While intended as a stopgap, temporary accommodation has seen a nearly 500% increase in costs over five years, with over 5,000 children living in precarious arrangements. We have all heard the stories of temporary accommodation's being offered an hour and a half down the road, away from the children's school and away from Health and Social Care services, when to get those services in place was a struggle to begin with. It is not sustainable. It is not good enough. The Government are failing when figures and stories like that exist. <BR /> <BR />We know that homelessness affects people of all backgrounds. I am particularly concerned about the number of older people who are presenting to my office having been told that, after many years, their private landlord is selling the property.”
“Homelessness and the threat of homelessness remains the most prevalent casework issue in my constituency office, followed by domestic abuse. Indeed, the two issues often go hand in hand, as many victims find themselves alone and homeless, usually with their children — one of the reasons why she does not "just leave". We do not do enough to support victims of domestic abuse. Organisations in the community and voluntary sector, like Women's Aid, do what they can and do an incredible job, but it is really shocking that there is a waiting list for temporary accommodation in a women's shelter. Those who can do so can live in temporary accommodation for months, with too many children being raised there.”
“I am pleased to join political parties in supporting the motion. <BR /> <BR />Homelessness remains one of the most urgent and growing issues of our generation. As we mark Homelessness Awareness Week, we must recognise that we are in the midst of a housing crisis. Over 58,000 individuals are officially homeless: that is one in every 33 people. Of that number, one third are children, and families account for more than half at 57%. Those figures demand our immediate attention, because, behind those numbers, families have been torn apart, children's education has been disrupted and individuals' dignity has been eroded. Homelessness is not merely a lack of shelter; it is a profound social failure.”
“Minister, I appreciate that, but, given that your colleague in the Government said that it was unlikely that such legislation would go through in this mandate, will you commit to working with the Minister for the Economy to see whether we can use your Bill as a vehicle in order to, finally, get that through?”
“Minister, do you have any plans to review the criteria for Sure Start provision? Typically, it is now used via postcode. In my constituency, a couple of million-pound houses qualify for Sure Start provision, yet pockets of people who may receive benefits do not.”
“Minister, the British Open will return to Royal Portrush next year. Do you have any plans for a showcase event, for example, to maximise the tourism opportunities right across Northern Ireland?”
“I appreciate that, and I appreciate that you are giving it attention. However, the British Open is coming to Northern Ireland next year, and we have a hotel that has been held up for nearly eight years, not necessarily because of your Department but for other reasons. Will you give this your attention, considering the mitigating circumstances around it?”
“I thank the Minister. The work that he has done in this area is very much appreciated, and many parents are grateful for the support. However, there are parents who have children of school age who are not necessarily getting that support. There is much that we can do with breakfast clubs and after-school clubs, which, with the Minister's support, could extend that type of childcare.”
“Asthma, for example, affects around 182,000 people in Northern Ireland, including many children. Although the condition is often manageable, uncontrolled asthma can lead to severe complications and can be fatal, but, by investing in preventative care for asthma, such as regular check-ups, access to medication and public education, the Government can reduce the need for emergency interventions and help more people lead healthier lives. Many lung cancer patients also have underlying respiratory conditions, which could be detected and help the cancer to be caught early. <BR /> <BR />We need to reduce the stigma around lung cancer. The truth is that anyone can develop it or any respiratory condition. A well-funded public awareness campaign could emphasise how lung health matters for everyone.”
“Northern Ireland does not currently offer systematic lung cancer screening, despite evidence showing that targeted, low-dose CT scans can catch lung cancer early in high-risk individuals, such as those over 55 years old or those with a history of smoking. In the United States and Europe, similar programmes have led to a significant increase in early-stage lung cancer diagnosis and improved five-year survival rates. <BR /> <BR />We need to prioritise resources for a lung cancer screening programme that includes people at high risk and extend that model to those with other chronic respiratory issues such as asthma and COPD. Screening and early diagnosis for those conditions would allow for more effective interventions, thus improving quality of life and reducing the strain on our emergency services.”
“On 1 November as well, we observe the beginning of Lung Cancer Awareness Month, which serves as a reminder to all of the devastating impact of the disease and the urgent steps that we need to take to improve outcomes in Northern Ireland. My family and many other families across Northern Ireland are living with that impact. It is cruel yet hopeless to miss someone so much. <BR /> <BR />Lung cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers in Northern Ireland. Over 1,000 people are diagnosed annually. Some 74% of cases are detected at late stages, when treatment options are limited, but, by prioritising regular lung health screening and addressing other lung health issues, we can improve outcomes, and not just for lung cancer but for a wide range of respiratory conditions that affect our community.”
“My father passed away on 1 November 2021. Earlier that year, he had been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. His cancer was likely a consequence of many years of smoking, and, sadly, he realised that. However, he began smoking at a time when it was encouraged and people even suggested that smoking was good for you. His roles in the British Army and the Prison Service made it difficult to stop. He quit about 15 years before his passing, but, unfortunately, the damage had been done.”
“She did it with energy and good humour. Ultimately, however, she served her community and all others. <BR /> <BR />Elected politics in Northern Ireland is difficult, especially when presented with the challenges that Anna experienced. Society no longer accepts those challenges because leaders such as Anna Lo faced them down. She was unique because she was the first; sadly, she is not yet the first of many, but that will come, and it will be because of Anna. That will be her legacy. <BR /> <BR />I offer my deepest condolences to all who knew and loved her.”
“I, too, offer my sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Anna Lo. <BR /> <BR />It was a pleasure to have known and worked with her. Many have said this, because, simply, it is true: she was a trailblazer, and she did it with style. No one rocked a leather jacket in the Chamber as well as Anna Lo”
“I appreciate the Minister coming to the House to answer the question. Everyone in the Chamber supports the ending violence against women and girls strategy. However, the events that occurred in the north-west in recent weeks are immediate and concerning. What is the Minister doing, and how is she working with the PSNI to ensure that our communities are kept safe?”
“Minister, you have answered for both. I am just asking for clarity. How quickly can we make progress, given the significant need for housing?”
“Minister, businesses in our constituency, and, I expect, across Northern Ireland, are concerned, rightly, about the additional pressures that they will experience following HM Treasury's autumn Budget. They suggest that more rate relief would be a great help. In response to a previous question, you mentioned that you are preparing proposals for the short, medium and long term. Can you give us any more detail on that and on whether you propose reducing rates for small businesses?”
“Minister, the legal aid crisis is an access to justice issue. The legal profession is telling us that it can no longer afford to take legal cases, which means that it simply will not, so those who are in need of legal representation will find it harder to get. <BR /> <BR />I am also concerned about sole practitioners in rural areas. It is their job. It is a reality that legal aid cases fund their role, and, in doing so, they provide that representation. How are we going to fix the situation and reassure the legal profession that it can continue to undertake that area of work?”
“In a way, that puts the responsibility back on to us as Members.”
“<BR /> <BR />Finally, as other Members and I mentioned, cooperation is key to underpinning such a register across all agencies, including the Department, councils and the PSNI, and essential for the success of such an initiative. The fragmented nature of the current system has led to inconsistent enforcement and confusion about roles and responsibilities. As MLAs, we all receive reports of animal welfare issues in our constituencies where there has been no follow-up. People feel that nothing was done, and councils say that they do not have the enforcement powers. That in itself warrants a review of current animal welfare legislation. We need to focus our efforts on the perpetrators so that they will not be allowed to keep animals again. It makes no sense that we have that information yet allow that to happen.”
“A centralised register with clear legal backing would streamline enforcement and ensure that bans on offenders are not just theoretical but enforceable. A register of that kind will not only act as a deterrent but ensure that convicted offenders are prevented from owning or acquiring new animals. Currently, the enforcement of bans on offenders keeping animals is inconsistent. A register would close that gap by providing a centralised, accessible resource. It would enable rehoming centres, pet sellers and law enforcement to easily verify whether an individual was prohibited from keeping animals. That transparency is crucial to building public trust and ensuring that those who report abuse feel that their concerns are taken seriously.”
“However, as has been mentioned, there are challenges with its implementation, including the legal framework, public accessibility and cooperation across all the relevant agencies. I recall responding with similar concerns when I was Minister, but we need to work through those challenges because the issue persists. Perhaps it is helpful that the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs are from the same party: the cooperation might between the two Departments might be better than it previously was. <BR /> <BR />For the register to work effectively, we need to underpin it with a solid legal framework. There is enforcement through the Welfare of Animals Act 2011, but that remains fragmented.”
“A key theme was the link between animal abuse and human violence. It is well documented that those who harm animals are more likely to commit violent acts against people. By recognising that cruelty link, we can help our wider community. That underscores the fact that improving animal welfare is not just about animals but about creating safer and more compassionate communities for everyone. <BR /> <BR />The issue is not new to the House. I recall responding to a similar debate when I was Minister of Justice eight years ago, so it remains an active concern for Members, the public and advocacy groups. I expect that most Members in the House, including the Minister, are supportive of a register.”
“I support the motion to establish a register of animal welfare offenders. We must strengthen our efforts to protect animals and prevent repeat offences. If people are capable of that behaviour once, they are capable of it again. It would be remiss of us not to use that information to protect animals, particularly when animal welfare issues are increasing and becoming more sinister. <BR /> <BR />Animal welfare is not an isolated issue but a reflection of the health values and humanity of our society; it is deeply embedded in the wider societal challenges that we face. Earlier this month, I sponsored an important animal welfare conference in the Long Gallery, hosted by Causeway Coast Dog Rescue, which brought together key stakeholders from across these islands, including Dogs Trust and Battersea Dogs' Home.”
“Will the Minister outline the impact on the wider criminal justice system of not taking forward the sentencing Bill?”
“Minister, you have acknowledged postnatal care and postnatal mental health, however there is not much detail on that. Currently, that is provided via a GP, a health visitor or MDTs in GP surgeries, but it is not consistent across the board. Some people have good experiences, and some people do not. Minister, I also ask you to note that it is not a mere matter of weeks following birth; it can be up to a year or two years. I ask the Minister to focus on that to ensure that people get the continuing help that they need; otherwise, it will be much longer than that.”
“I echo the comments of my constituency colleague. Many people in Ballykelly are quite frustrated with the ongoing scheme and would like to have seen the investment being made in a bypass. I appreciate that a bypass would probably require substantially more investment. Will the Minister commit to come to Ballykelly to see the work that needs to be done and why people are advocating for that?”
“The Minister has acknowledged that there is a cliff edge at 18 years for those with special educational needs. Is there scope to extend his proposed legislation for those with special education needs, not necessarily to compel them to stay in education to an older age but to enable them to do so where a special school is the right setting for their needs?”
“We need to strengthen our local food supply chains and promote local produce in order to ensure that farmers receive fair prices while enhancing our food security and reducing our reliance on imported food. <BR /> <BR />As many others said, we must address the mental health challenges that farmers face. Farming is a tough job at the best of times, but the increasing and extra pressures that farmers face, including financial stress, labour shortages and the impacts of climate change, which many did not expect when they entered the role, take a significant toll on their mental health. The Assembly must do more to support them, because it is not just farmers who will come under pressure; Northern Ireland, as an agricultural region of the UK, will come under pressure too.”
“Its eligibility criteria could exclude very small farms that are most in need of help. Farmers in my constituency and across Northern Ireland cannot wait two years for support; they need solutions now. The Minister and the Executive must work with the British Government to ensure an immediate replacement for the basic payment scheme, and that replacement must recognise the specific needs of Northern Ireland's farmers and provide them with the financial support that they need to manage costs, access labour and invest in sustainable farming practices — again, that is a statutory requirement. <BR /> <BR />We need to do more with our local food markets.”