John Blair
South Antrim · Alliance Party · Northern Ireland
“It supports the Department's role in enforcement by ensuring that animal welfare standards are being upheld. At their core, the regulations are based on prevention, accountability and transparency.”
“I, like others, rise as a member of the AERA Committee in support of the regulations, which seek to make CCTV mandatory in our slaughterhouses. I do not intend to repeat all of the relevant points that have been covered by the Committee Chair and Committee colleagues.”
“<BR /> <BR />I recognise the work of my colleague the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, who is using the powers within his remit to help mitigate climate change.”
“I rise as chair of the all-party group on climate action to address the extreme heatwave that is forecast to hit mainland UK, including a rare red weather warning, with temperatures forecast to be as high as 40°C. It is yet another reminder that climate change is not a distant future risk that we can brush under the carpet.”
“They place pressure on our health service, disrupt transport and infrastructure, reduce productivity and threaten food production, water supplies and biodiversity. If such events continue to grow in severity and frequency, the cost to our communities, our local economy and our natural environment will only rise.”
“I thank the member of the Commission for that reply. It is good to hear that those reviews take place, of course. However, further to the information that was presented, will there be an ongoing review of the continuous improvement plan, and will that information be available to Members?”
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“In the interim, and before the legislative ban, the Economy Minister must send a clear message that, in Northern Ireland, it is no longer open season regarding these outdated and environmentally damaging practices. We cannot effectively combat climate change while continuing to support industries that contribute substantially to it.”
“<BR /> <BR />While we on these Benches agree in principle with the amendment, which seeks a ban before the end of 2024, the reality is that achieving such a ban in that short time frame is, unfortunately, highly unlikely, but we support the motion and the amendment on the basis of that principle.”
“My Alliance colleague Councillor Jay Burbank successfully brought a similar motion to Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in the recent past. It is unfortunate, however, that that has not been replicated in the other council areas. For instance, my understanding is that the DUP, the Ulster Unionist Party and, indeed, the SDLP councillors on Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council opposed and obstructed such a proposal. It is simply illogical not to have cross-party support at all levels of government for a ban to address what is undoubtedly a widespread concern. It was necessary to prevent petroleum licensing and fracking years ago, and we must continue in the same spirit of environmental protection.”
“Thank you, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker. Before I respond to the Member's intervention, I stress that I need hardly point out the recent environmental challenges at Lough Neagh and the impact that those have had on communities. <BR /> <BR />I thank the Member for his intervention. We should look at everything on a case-by-case basis. He will know from the tone of what I am saying, however, that my response to drilling is instinctively negative. If the Member compares the areas of Northern Ireland designated for such exploration by some, he will see that we are a many times multiple — over 20% of our land mass — compared with single percentages in the rest of GB, right down to 0·8% in one region. <BR /> <BR />I am pleased at a local level.”
“Those changes would help mitigate the effects that we already experience as a result of climate change and secure a more sustainable future for all of us. <BR /> <BR />The practice of fracking continues to cause significant worry and apprehension among the residents of Northern Ireland. That includes my constituents in South Antrim, whose primary concern is the drilling activities that will potentially take place in or around Lough Neagh. It is the largest freshwater lake in the UK, a designated area of special scientific interest (ASSI) and home to several nature reserves. It is not an area to be destroyed on the whim of large-profit businesses that care nothing for our natural environment, and I need hardly point out —.”
“It is essential that we take significant steps to improve those figures if we are to meet our legally binding target of producing 80% of our electricity from renewable sources by the year 2030. <BR /> <BR />If we are to reach net zero, it is imperative that we prioritise the transition to utilising clean and renewable sources of energy. That shift would help protect our natural environment, including helping to increase biodiversity and protect our waterways. It would also help reduce our dependence on finite resources that are becoming increasingly scarce. Investment in renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind and hydropower, must therefore be increased. Additionally, there should be investment in alternative modes of transport, such as public transport networks, active travel opportunities and electric vehicle infrastructure.”
“The Alliance Party has stood in the Chamber not just today but several times in the past to speak in support of a ban on all forms of exploration and extraction of oil and gas in Northern Ireland, as well as to make clear its opposition to fracking. On this occasion, I take the opportunity to address the motion from an environmental perspective. <BR /> <BR />First, I note that the exploration, drilling and extraction of hydrocarbons in Northern Ireland will severely obstruct our efforts to meet the climate change targets set under the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. According to recent statistics from the Department for the Economy, only 45% of the electricity consumed in Northern Ireland in 2023 was generated from renewable sources, representing a 5% decrease from the previous year.”
“Will the Minister outline some of the environmental benefits of the emissions trading schemes?”
“To ensure that justice is served, it is also vital to implement stricter sentencing guidelines that reflect the severity of the harm that these people inflict. The Minister has already stated her intention to introduce new provisions to protect front-line and emergency service responders. That is another area on which she will absolutely depend on the support of the House and Executive colleagues for delivery. That is why we are supporting the motion and the amendment, despite our reservations on some of the terminology and geographical references in them. <BR /> <BR />I reiterate the absolute need for the declared intention of the motion to be accompanied by the delivery of budgetary support to provide for and protect the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the public that it serves.”
“The Minister has referred to that often, and I am sure she will do so again. I hope that she has the support of the Assembly and the Executive in making the provision for policing, the wider justice family and the public that is required. It is political will that is required to deliver a settlement that is fit for the provision of justice and public safety in the 21st century, with all of its changes and challenges. <BR /> <BR />Action must be taken if we are to lower the very worrying statistics referred to in the motion in relation to attacks on police. It is imperative that those who cause damage to property and pose a threat to human life are held accountable for their actions.”
“There is that local need, but, apart from that, those who saw the working conditions of officers in Crossmaglen prior to the report on reform, which were referenced by Mr Nesbitt, fully understand the need for change. As Policing Board members, we saw those conditions. That change, in addition to necessary improvements in infrastructure, must also include an effort to engage the community in a policing model that is consistent with that in other areas across this region. In any case, those are operational matters and are the responsibility of the Chief Constable and outwith the control of the Justice Minister for reasons that we all know and, frankly, should all understand. <BR /> <BR />The motion makes relevant reference to the need for satisfactory budget provision for policing.”
“That is not what the majority of people in Northern Ireland want, and all of us know that. Whilst it is essential to recognise the seriousness of ramming police vehicles in south Armagh, it is crucial to not overlook the fact — it is an absolute fact — that such incidents are happening all over Northern Ireland. The records show that clearly. My colleague Stewart Dickson has referred to that, and even though I do not wish to simply repeat his points, the focus has to be on the spread of the problem and the threat that stems from that problem. <BR /> <BR />Furthermore, I must draw on Policing Board experience, again, to express unease at how the motion references policing reform in an area that needs positive and proactive neighbourhood policing as much as anywhere else in Northern Ireland.”
“As another recently serving member of the Policing Board, I am acutely aware of the incidents addressed in the motion and the effect that ramming police vehicles has on the community, the PSNI as a whole and, especially, the individual police officers involved and their families. Those sinister acts accomplish nothing except the spread of fear in communities and the direction of destruction and injury towards police. <BR /> <BR />The PSNI has the complete and unwavering support of Alliance in its efforts to safeguard our communities. Officers constantly put themselves in harm's way to achieve that goal for the public good, and they have our utmost respect and gratitude. <BR /> <BR />Those who use vehicles as weapons to attack the police are trying to take us back to a time of violence and division.”
“Does the Minister agree that there are significant economic constraints due to water and waste water infrastructure issues being raised at the planning stage. I think in particular about town centre regeneration and the fact that such restrictions have been placed on converting premises for, for example, hospitality purposes. The matter needs urgent attention.”
“Ultimately, the current momentum within the sectors governed by DAERA must be sustained and built upon to achieve a greener and cleaner future for us all.”
“<BR /> <BR />I want to put on record my thanks, however, to the AERA Minister for his work in his new role to date, particularly in his commitment to tackling the Lough Neagh blue-green algae issue and broader issues surrounding water quality in Northern Ireland. That is something that I highlighted in detail in my Member's statement this morning. I will continue, with others, to work closely with the Minister and alongside Committee colleagues to achieve the necessary positive outcomes, hopefully delivered through appropriate funding streams. <BR /> <BR />I wish to reiterate the importance of cross-departmental collaboration in achieving the change necessary for our communities as well as our planet. Such contributions across Departments are vital to ensure that initiatives are future-proofed and receive sustainable funding.”
“It would be a shame if such outreach were ever seen as low-hanging fruit when it comes to budgetary pressures and budget cuts. <BR /> <BR />Those budgetary pressures must be addressed in the context of the motions. In short, the required processes brought by Brexit, the environmental challenges that I outlined, change in support mechanisms for our agriculture sector, those climate action commitments and the required resource for all those means that DAERA funding must be protected and awarded in a more meaningful and targeted way. Ring-fenced funding is required for climate, environmental protection and governance, which would include, for example, Lough Neagh, an environmental improvement plan and animal welfare. It hardly needs saying that rectifying the problems at Lough Neagh will come at a considerable price.”
“That is not to mention how the Department has been working on reduced budgets for animal welfare, including welfare in veterinary services. Those areas must, instead, be increased and improved upon. That is also true of the rural affairs aspect of the Department, which brings its own demands on connectivity, rural isolation, access to services and addressing the urban/rural divide. <BR /> <BR />Separate from all those statutory commitments, the Department is well placed to engage with the community and maximise opportunities for the public to avail themselves of the facilities in forests and fisheries in order to help those who wish to be outdoors and active, assist in healthy lifestyles, appreciate nature and, whilst doing that, reach some of the most disadvantaged and isolated members of our community.”
“Those include the biodiversity strategy, the marine strategy, the peatland strategy and the clean air strategy. It is also, quite frankly, disgraceful that, in 2024, according to the most recent RSPB 'State of Nature' report, 12% of our species are being threatened with extinction and the area of certified woodland has continued to decrease despite increasing in England. In addition, around half our protected areas are in unfavourable conditions. That situation demands investment. Northern Ireland has many natural assets, but if we continue that trend, we will cause lasting damage. <BR /> <BR />There are many opportunities for restoration and recovery. The Department must seize on those immediately, but it can do that only if it is properly funded.”
“There is no doubt that the absence of a Government for the past two years impacted on how our Departments are being funded. That includes the scrutiny of figures, which needs to be improved. It has resulted in a need for transformation in the work of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in particular. The Department oversees one of our largest carbon emitters, but it also has ample opportunities to deliver on our climate change targets. A truly just transition requires funding of those opportunities. I hope that the Minister can reflect on that when she speaks later. <BR /> <BR />In order to achieve that delivery, the Department must be in a position to formalise the many overdue policies and strategies that remained stagnated alongside the Assembly's collapse.”
“Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am speaking as Alliance spokesperson for agriculture, environment and rural affairs, and I will talk about how the Supply Estimates and draft spending proposals impact on pollution remedies, climate obligations and a number of other DAERA responsibilities.”
“I thank the Minister for that reply. Related to climate considerations, what strategic support and leadership is the Department providing to meet the requirements of the Climate Change Act, as set out in the Department's business plan?”
“<BR /> <BR />What I raise today is essentially a local issue, but the circumstances and the environmental threat could be replicated as an example of any of our waterways across Northern Ireland. Last month, I reflected publicly on the 'State of Our Rivers' report by the Rivers Trust in 2024, which told us that none of our rivers was of "good" overall status and that 12% were "poor" or "bad". Shortly after that, the Northern Ireland Audit Office's report on water quality highlighted no improvement in our river quality and diminished improvement in our lake quality since 2015. The lessons are clear: we must do better, and we must start to do better as soon as we can.”
“<BR /> <BR />The south Antrim river to which I refer today flows into Lough Neagh, as do many other rivers, of course, in the lough's catchment area. In what remains of this Assembly mandate, we must consider those ecosystems and living environments and their survival carefully in policy, regulation and legislation. Alongside Alliance colleagues, I have stated that our waterways and Lough Neagh, in particular, need a series of actions from those of us who legislate. They include an independent environmental protection agency, as previously promised; increased fines and penalties for polluters; investment in our waste water infrastructure; support for nature-friendly farming; and the creation of a duty for inter-agency cooperation and an integrated management plan.”
“Those have been reported to the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), and one incident has been confirmed as spreading during the closed season and is still being investigated. There have been many other incidents of pollution in my area over recent years. <BR /> <BR />I should point out that both NIEA and DAERA have been prompt with their follow-ups and replies to the points that I have raised with them. I also welcome the fact that the AERA Minister has committed to an environmental governance review and to tackling the environmental crisis at Lough Neagh. However, the scenes at Lough Neagh and on its shores last year and the fact that none of Northern Ireland's rivers is currently of good classification shows clearly that all policies and practices on this need serious and urgent review.”
“I rise to make a statement on the subject of river pollution. I will attempt to highlight some of the practices that contribute to that and to make an appeal that all of us start to deal with the issue properly. Regrettably, I have all too often had to raise the matter of pollution since joining the Assembly in 2018, through comments here, correspondence to DAERA and, of course, through Assembly questions for oral and written answer. <BR /> <BR />Since the start of this year, I have had, through my constituency office, a number of reports of suspected pollution or threat of pollution on the Six Mile river due to slurry spreading in the Ballyclare and Doagh areas, in particular, in my South Antrim constituency.”
“I thank the Commission member for that answer. As part of the aim to reach net zero, are there any plans to review the electric vehicle charging provision at Parliament Buildings and, perhaps, to extend it to e-bike charging?”
“<BR /> <BR />The campaign that the groups have launched today reminds us that it really is time for change in Northern Ireland. I urge the public to support the campaign, and I once again make clear the widespread opposition to that barbaric practice. I also call on Members from all parties to ensure that this is the mandate in which we deliver in the interests of animal welfare. It is crucial not only that we bring Northern Ireland into line with other jurisdictions but that we lead the way by surpassing their standards of animal welfare. The time has come to do the right thing, together.”
“The practices and effects of hunting, such as wild mammals being chased across fields in the countryside and dogs suffering life-threatening injuries, are not sources of entertainment: far from it. That so-called sport is cruel both to the wild animals being hunted and to the dogs that are being used in the hunt and encouraged to chase and kill those wild animals. <BR /> <BR />I thank the USPCA and the League Against Cruel Sports for organising a constructive engagement session with all parties a few weeks ago in the Building. That is a clear sign that there has been progress on the matter and that there is now an opportunity for all parties to work together. I ask the House to note that that cross-party engagement is ongoing.”
“It is absolutely shameful that, in 2024, Northern Ireland remains the only part of the UK without such a ban. Members will know that it is a matter that is very close to my heart and that I previously tried to introduce a ban through the Assembly. It was disappointing that the Bill narrowly failed on that occasion, and it was a palpable shock that Sinn Féin did not support it, despite a previous public commitment to supporting a ban on fox hunting. I do, however, remain grateful for the cross-party support that was achieved for the Bill on that occasion. <BR /> <BR />There is no doubt that hunting with dogs is an outdated and brutally cruel activity that has no place in a civilised, modern-day society.”
“I want to bring to the attention of the House the launch of a campaign today by the USPCA and the League Against Cruel Sports to ban hunting with dogs in Northern Ireland. The groups have named it the Together campaign.”
“What plans, if any, does the Minister have to review the Rural Needs Act 2016? If such a review were to take place, what might it look like?”
“I thank the Minister for his statement. I have no doubt that he will have given the matter the most serious consideration. Is he willing to come to a meeting of the Assembly all-party group on animal welfare to discuss the proposals that he has outlined today, as well as related animal welfare matters?”
“It is also imperative that we invest in sustainable and economically viable fisheries while taking steps to protect the marine environment on which it depends. I have focused mainly on environmental and marine matters this morning. Alliance colleagues will speak soon in the debate on other matters, including the economy, the industry's importance to local communities and access to seasonal workers. In the meantime, I express our support for the motion and the amendment.”
“We must remember that, when it comes down to it, our waterways and marine life do not recognise borders and boundaries, so our responses must reflect that. <BR /> <BR />I stress that it would be advantageous for the industry to witness the implementation of the future marine and fisheries support strategy. The strategy is expected to facilitate the growth of green practices and decarbonisation in the sector. The consultation on the strategy was conducted in late 2022 and early 2023 and proposed a five-year financial support plan for the fishing industry. However, delivery of the strategy is still pending and, of course, requires adequate and additional funding. <BR /> <BR />Overall, it is essential to safeguard and build on the success of the Northern Ireland fishing industry.”
“<BR /> <BR />Decarbonising the sector is vital if we are to achieve our climate action targets, particularly the net zero target laid out in the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. In order to make that work, our fishing industry must take an ecosystem-based approach, whereby climate-friendly fishing is championed across the region. That is crucial for ocean conservation and health. Thriving biodiversity is needed for a productive and healthy marine environment, which is, ultimately, vital for good stock management. Therefore, it helps both marine life and the fishing industry to flourish. <BR /> <BR />Furthermore, it is essential to cooperate with other jurisdictions, including North/South and east-west bodies, to ensure that there is a coordinated approach to those matters.”
“<BR /> <BR />There is no doubt that the fishing industry needs investment to modernise its vessels and gear not just to improve efficiency and safety but, importantly, to contribute to green growth. The new Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, my colleague Andrew Muir, recently met the sector, including the Northern Ireland Fishery Harbour Authority (NIFHA) and the Northern Ireland Fishermen's Federation (NIFF), to discuss those issues and the necessary steps for meaningful action. During his visit to Portavogie harbour, the Minister highlighted the significant opportunities for decarbonisation and his intention to pursue those issues. That is welcome news.”
“The importance of our fishing industry has been clearly illustrated by the Members who have spoken. I thank the proposers of the motion and the amendment for bringing the matter to the Assembly today. <BR /> <BR />The Northern Ireland fishing industry has been a vital contributor to the country's economy, providing employment and opportunity and sustaining local communities. However, the industry continues to face significant challenges that are causing concerns among local fishermen and their families, such as rising input costs and fishing quota strains. Those of us who have engaged with the sector over the years will have been briefed on that to some extent and will be well aware of those challenges, so it is all the more important that we address them today.”
“On something more specific, 10 years after the formation of the so-called super-councils, are there any plans to review the structures and mechanisms around them, which may, for example, be blocking the bringing forward of local development plans this far down the line?”
“With your permission, Mr Speaker, I want to say at the outset that it is with absolute pleasure that I welcome the Minister to his new office and to his place today. Will he provide an update on the ongoing inquiry into the seasonal worker route by the migration advisory committee (MAC)?”
“I thank the Member for giving way. I hope that I can give some sort of reassurance, as well as asking for some clarification from the Member. Does he agree that there is a fundamentally strong case for including non-governmental organisations such as Northern Ireland Water, which has been mentioned for a variety of reasons in relation to the problems with Lough Neagh? I can assure the Member that that is the amendment's intent, and I hope that he can accept that.”
“We must take the responsibility of those bodies seriously and ensure that feedback and action from them is guaranteed. Further to that, as our five-point plan clearly highlights, any new duty to cooperate must lead to tangible, measurable and fully resourced outcomes. <BR /> <BR />Alliance will continue to press hard on Lough Neagh, because the future of our waters depends on this. For that reason, on behalf of the Alliance Party, I am content to support the Lough Neagh rescue plan motion with, of course, our amendment.”
“<BR /> <BR />The final point of the plan closely aligns with the motion: creating a new legislative duty to cooperate on developing an integrated management plan. A myriad of public bodies hold some level of responsibility for the lough and its shores, but we lack effective, coordinated governance. For that reason Alliance supports the motion's call for a cross-departmental body and a new management structure to include input from communities and organisations with an interest in the lough's welfare at heart. On that point, I have tabled a minor amendment to ensure the inclusion of "relevant non-governmental organisations" to have a vital role to play on Lough Neagh and the planning of the actions for the future. Northern Ireland Water is perhaps the best example of those NGOs; there will, of course, be others.”
“I am happy to respond. I confirm that they are not my figures but those of the Department, as presented in the cross-party updates that have been given on Lough Neagh. I do not have a list in front of me of all the contributors, but I assume that the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), for example, and others will have contributed. Those are the figures that were stated at those briefings. The point is that we must look at this seriously in light of the figures so that, as well as doing what I outlined on pollution, we secure investment in our waste water infrastructure and support more nature-friendly farming practices. The required DFI role and commitment on that further reinforces the need for the interdepartmental and inter-agency approach that we often reference.”
“The fact is that it will take at least 20 years for the phosphorous sediment on the bed of the lough to rectify itself naturally or even begin to do so, but we will never achieve that if we continue to pump the same substances into the lough at the same rate as we are pumping them in now. It is clear beyond doubt that the bacterium in the lough is due to nutrient overload. The figures are out there: about 64% results from farming practices, 24% from water treatment and sewage and 12% from septic tanks. Therefore, we must look —”
“<BR /> <BR />If you will allow me, Mr Speaker, I will use the opportunity and take a moment to highlight some of the work that I have done with colleagues to address the issue in the long term. My colleague Sian Mulholland deserves particular mention for her work on this. Our five-point plan for Lough Neagh clearly details the actions that need to be taken now. The first is the establishment of an independent environmental protection agency, which is a long-standing policy of the Alliance Party. The new body would have the authority to oversee and enforce environmental laws. It would have powers beyond DAERA, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) and the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP). <BR /> <BR />Our plan for Lough Neagh also details increasing fines and penalties for polluters. That is a must.”
“<BR /> <BR />Last week, after only a few days in office, the new Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs was on a boat in the middle of the lough to see at first hand the work that needs to be done. It is reassuring to hear the Minister say that the Lough Neagh crisis will remain high on his and the Department's agenda. We must be under no illusion, however: the restoration of the Assembly will not and cannot lead to a quick-fix solution. This valuable natural asset can be saved, but it will take a concentrated and coordinated effort over a long period by us as elected representatives, as well as by various Departments and agencies. There is damage that has been done over a large number of years to be put right.”
“All the policies and practices that have led to this devastating situation should be on the table for review as a matter of absolute urgency. <BR /> <BR />When the blue-green algae issue was at its worst over the summer, I sponsored an event upstairs in Parliament Buildings which was led by Lough Neagh Partnership. Some of those who are in the Chamber today joined us at that event, and I am sure that they would all agree that there was a tangible sense of anger and frustration in the room about the limits of what could be done at that time without a Minister in place. I am glad that, in the restored Assembly, we can now get on with trying to tackle the many issues we face at Lough Neagh.”
“I rise to support the motion and the amendment that colleagues and I have put forward. <BR /> <BR />I share others' frustration at the incredible delay in progressing meaningful action to tackle our Lough Neagh crisis. While the Assembly remained collapsed over the summer of last year, the largest fresh water lake in these islands — a vital strategic asset for biodiversity, tourism, recreation, fishing, culture and drinking water — experienced algal blooms at a rate never before witnessed on these islands. As if we have not already have enough warnings about the state of our ecosystems and the associated threat to nature over recent times, the Lough Neagh ecological crisis most certainly serves as notice that we must do things differently and must do better.”
“I add to the good wishes that have been expressed to the Minister on taking up his role and to the Committee Chair, who takes her place today in the Chamber. I will keep in touch with the Minister individually on all the local needs and questions that I have, including the Ballycorr Road in Ballyclare, which has to be one of the worst roads that I have seen. <BR /> <BR />My question is more broad-based and relates to footways. They are not mentioned in the statement. The Minister will be aware, like the rest of us, that many footways have fallen into a state of disrepair that makes them either dilapidated or dangerous. Are they included? If not, will there be a future bid for funding for those that might also include cycle paths where they are on or shared with footways?”