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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“As chair of the all-party group on climate action, I take this opportunity to mark the start of the 30th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties, otherwise known as COP30, hosted this year in Brazil. <BR /> <BR />Each year at COP, leaders from across the globe are reminded of the scale of the challenge that we all face together. The theme this year is especially poignant, calling us not just to recognise the seriousness of climate change but to act collectively in the face of it. While Northern Ireland has experienced its own share of climate change — my constituency, South Antrim, for example, has increased and recurrent flooding — we must remember that other countries have been hit much harder, often with far fewer resources at their disposal to deal with it. Therefore, COP is an annual call to solidarity and shared purpose.”
“I thank the Minister for that reply. Does he envisage going to public consultation during the mandate on any of the options considered in the report?”
“I thank the Minister for his statement. In the Minister's opinion, what has the cost been to our environment of previous inaction on establishing an independent environmental protection agency? I ask that in the context of some in the SDLP, for example, forgetting that that party held the brief before and did not deliver on that.”
“I also pay tribute to the dedicated and enthusiastic team of Assembly officials who have supported and encouraged our Youth Assembly since its inception. <BR /> <BR />I am deeply impressed by the increase in confidence and contribution that I have observed amongst the Youth Assembly Members. Their efforts should never be taken for granted, and they should be celebrated by us all. I wish all outgoing and incoming Youth Assembly Members every success for the future.”
“I encourage everyone to take time to read it, as it offers a unique insight into the achievements and perspectives of our Youth Assembly Members. <BR /> <BR />I look forward to seeing what those remarkable young people will go on to achieve. I also look forward very much to working with the 90 newly recruited Members for the 2025-27 mandate. That new group reflects the diversity of our society, with Members coming from every constituency across Northern Ireland. We must always recognise and commend the hard work, commitment and enthusiasm of those young people. They have succeeded in their Youth Assembly roles while juggling demanding school or college schedules, exams and extracurricular activities.”
“The depth and breadth of the Youth Assembly's involvement is highlighted by its collaboration with the Justice Committee on the Justice Bill; its input to the Education and Economy Committees during the independent review of education; and its valuable perspectives on the Dilapidation Bill, delivered to and through the Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee. The Youth Assembly also engaged on and addressed a host of other issues, including the plight of young carers. Such a broad remit across all Departments truly demonstrates the scope of the Youth Assembly Members' understanding and why they are held in such high regard as credible, articulate representatives of young people in Northern Ireland. That important legacy report has been provided to every MLA and is also available online.”
“Mr Speaker, I had the pleasure of attending the final plenary session of the second Youth Assembly on Saturday past, and I know that you were also there. I take this opportunity to recognise the dedication and hard work of everyone involved. <BR /> <BR />At Saturday's event, the Youth Assembly Members launched their legacy report, which chronicles their extensive work from 2023 onwards. The legacy report is a testament to the dedication and engagement of the Youth Assembly Members. They have played a significant role in shaping policy and debate across a wide range of issues.”
“First, I thank the Minister for providing a reminder for those who are in need of it that he also covers environment and rural affairs. Is he as fed up as I am with the politicians who, mostly, sit on our right and line up every year to call for action on pollution and Lough Neagh when they see blue-green algae but then come to the Chamber and decry or vote against every practical, proportionate and essential measure that is proposed? They talk out of both sides of their mouth and deliver nothing in detail.”
“It is well known that waste water spills are a key factor driving water pollution. It is also known that our waste water infrastructure is at capacity and that SuDS alone in new developments cannot change the situation that already exists. How does the Minister propose to deliver the significant investment that is needed without undue delay?”
“The Minister referred to 500 sightings of Asian hornets in the UK and Ireland. Will there be continued analysis carried out and information sharing among officials in those jurisdictions?”
“Apple growing is not just fundamental to our rural economy; it is key to food security and ensuring that high-quality, home-grown produce reaches tables across Northern Ireland. Too often, we overlook the journey that our food takes and the dedication of those behind the scenes. <BR /> <BR />Thanks again to the Member for raising the matter and for giving us the opportunity for this important reflection. I look forward to hearing from the Minister.”
“I know, however, that the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs is dedicated to promoting and supporting local produce, as shown by the funding that was recently allocated to the sector through the sustainable agriculture programme, as well as through his ongoing commitment to nature-friendly farming schemes. I look forward to hearing more details from the Minister about the efforts that are being made to support this sector, which is so vital to our economy and our environment as well as to biodiversity, in particular.”
“They support countless local families, sustain many small businesses and preserve cultural traditions that span generations. The orchards also serve as a major tourist attraction and are central to festivals such as the Armagh Apple Blossom Festival. This vital industry faces significant challenges, however. Climate change is altering rainfall patterns and increasing extreme weather events. Rising input costs are also a challenge, as are labour shortages, and market fluctuations strain the sector further. <BR /> <BR />The Ulster Farmers' Union reports that over 75% of Northern Ireland's apple growers saw reduced profitability in 2023.”
“As Alliance AERA spokesperson, I sincerely thank Mr McNulty for highlighting this important and overlooked industry by securing this Adjournment debate. Our local growers and horticultural sectors must always be recognised amid large-scale production, as they are essential for local communities as well as the local economy. I observed that first-hand during a recent AERA Committee visit to a farm garden in Carrickfergus, which underscored the significance of locally produced, sustainable food for consumers and chefs in that region. There are examples of that, of course, across Northern Ireland. <BR /> <BR />County Armagh in particular is renowned locally and internationally for its world-class apple orchards. Those apples are essential ingredients in products such as ciders, juices and sauces.”
“I thank the Member for the intervention and congratulate him on his appointment as vice chair of the all-party group on climate. Hopefully, the sentiments, targets and aspirations of that group will be reflected in future motions. <BR /> <BR />In closing, let me be clear: any shortcuts that we make today will only increase the cost, both financially and environmentally, for future generations. We must act decisively to ensure that every household in Northern Ireland can be assured of a warm, energy-efficient home, affordable energy and a cleaner, greener future. I urge all Members to support the Alliance motion, to reject the amendments that I outlined as being incompatible with it and to consider the other amendment, which is probably compatible.”
“I am going to continue. <BR /> <BR />Amendment No 3 is supportable, because it preserves the core aim of the motion and especially its focus on bridging the gap between ambitious climate measures and assisting those who are most affected by rising energy costs. <BR /> <BR />I am happy to give way now, if Dr Aiken wants me to.”
“We must uphold our shared commitments and not retreat from hard-won progress simply because implementation poses challenges. We must prioritise urgency, not half measures or backtracking. I read those two amendments, and I listened to them being proposed. I heard from Dr Aiken about the lights going out, and I read the amendments again. I concluded that the lights are on but there is nobody at home — not over there, at least, and not with that level of climate denial. <BR /> <BR />In contrast, amendment No 3 is supportable, because it preserves the core aim —.”
“Addressing those ambitions, Alliance will continue to urge the Minister for Communities to introduce comprehensive proposals for redesigning and constructing social homes to be fit for a net zero future. That means integrating higher energy-efficiency standards, which are vital for residents who are already struggling to pay their bills. That would also make a significant contribution to meeting our emissions targets. Hopefully, when the Minister responds today, we will hear more about current and future plans. <BR /> <BR />I turn to the amendments. Amendment No 1 fails to properly address the immediate threats posed by climate change. Amendment No 2 is similarly problematic, especially the claim about the "undeliverable nature of emissions targets" in the Climate Change Act, an agreement that was forged collectively by all parties here.”
“As has been mentioned, we have a statutory duty set out in the Climate Change Act, which was supported by all Executive parties. The legislation commits us to ambitious renewable energy targets. Recent data from the Department for the Economy shows that Northern Ireland currently sources approximately 45% of its electricity from renewables. Whilst that is a commendable achievement, we cannot be complacent, especially when neighbouring regions such as Scotland have surpassed 60%. Northern Ireland should strive not just to meet but to surpass those targets by leveraging our landscape, which is conducive to clean energy innovation, to become a leading example for all of the United Kingdom and Ireland.”
“For example, introducing large-scale retrofitting schemes such as upgrading insulation, replacing fossil fuel heating systems with other, low-carbon technologies and improving the energy efficiency of windows and roofs can help alleviate fuel poverty while cutting emissions. Such interventions are essential in combating social inequality alongside achieving environmental goals.”
“I rise mindful of the fact that I was recently appointed chair of the all-party group on climate action. However, I speak primarily as Alliance Party spokesperson on the environment and to express my support for the important Alliance motion. The motion does not just prioritise urgent climate action but emphasises achieving a just transition, particularly for those in society who are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change as well as energy poverty. <BR /> <BR />The housing sector, whether we like it or not, is responsible for a significant proportion of our carbon emissions, but addressing that challenge can bring wide-ranging benefits. By reducing emissions from our homes, we can deliver affordable warmth, lower household energy bills and improve the health and well-being of the most disadvantaged members of our community.”
“I thank the Minister for the statement. I am also thinking of those impacted on at the infected site; I put that on the record. However, will the Minister inform us or remind us, as the case may be, whether there is a legal requirement for all bird keepers to register their birds and whether there will be ongoing communications about registration?”
“I thank the Minister for that answer. How does his Department intend to make any retained estate more energy-efficient and modern? After any review or rationalisation, there will still be a considerable estate, so is there an action plan or a programme to do that?”
“I thank the Minister for the reply to my question. May I ask the Minister for some more specific information on his conversations with the UK Government? Will he outline whether there will be a transitional arrangement in moving from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to the local growth fund?”
“Further to the Minister's replies, have efforts been made to recruit more NIEA staff in order to improve response times to planning applications?”
“<BR /> <BR />Before I finish, I sincerely thank everyone involved in the environment sector: our remarkable NGOs, hard-working volunteers and dedicated organisers. Their efforts are greatly appreciated and do not go unnoticed. We should all feel inspired by their commitment and consider how we can contribute more to safeguarding our natural landscape in Northern Ireland. Hopefully, we can match that real and sincere sectoral effort and the public interest in protecting our natural environment with the political will that will be required in the future to produce the much-needed outcomes.”
“That long-overdue document sets out five strategic objectives and 26 ambitious actions to restore damaged peatlands and secure a future for those vital ecosystems. It is crucial that we move swiftly from strategy to action, harnessing partnership and collective expertise to ensure delivery on the objectives. Protecting and restoring our peatlands is essential if we are serious about achieving our climate targets and safeguarding our environment for future generations. <BR /> <BR />I encourage all Members and the public to participate in Environment Week. A variety of public events will take place throughout the week to raise awareness and to promote conservation efforts. They include training sessions, talks, guided walks and volunteering opportunities that focus on specific sites, species and local landscapes.”
“As Members may already be aware, today marks the beginning of Northern Ireland Environment Week, which is a crucial week of concentrated effort in our environment sector. I was glad to attend Northern Ireland Environment Link's launch event this morning alongside some of my Alliance Party colleagues. <BR /> <BR />The theme for this year's Environment Week is peatlands, a subject that is of vital significance in Northern Ireland. Our peatlands are immensely valuable for biodiversity, carbon storage, water quality and flood protection, yet those unique habitats have been under immense strain for years owing to factors such as overgrazing, drainage and burning. That is why I was glad to hear that the Alliance Party Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has successfully published the long-awaited peatland strategy.”
“Let us all remember this message after the debate and carry it outside the Chamber: safeguarding our natural environment is the responsibility not just of government and agencies but of every individual in our society. Fostering a culture of awareness and respect for our ecosystems will ensure that we sustain a resilient, diverse and thriving landscape for current and future generations to enjoy.”
“Ultimately, a joined-up approach across government agencies, landowners and farmers is essential, if we are to prevent wildfires or to respond as effectively as possible when they occur. <BR /> <BR />Dissuading people from deliberately setting destructive fires at Sliabh Beagh or anywhere else in Northern Ireland must be an absolute priority. Deliberately setting a wildfire on a site of special scientific importance where rare species and fragile habitats are endangered is simply a crime against nature. <BR /> <BR />Looking ahead, we await the publication of a wildfire strategy. Hopefully, when published, it can progress without delay. The hard work on implementing real measures to limit the effects of wildfires must begin before the next wildfire season.”
“The Northern Ireland Environment Agency is prepared with specialist wildfire vehicles and has expert staff available to advise and support wildfire response efforts, as happened at Sliabh Beagh. <BR /> <BR />In June, departmental officials visited the Sliabh Beagh area of special scientific interest to assess the impact. While the damage is extensive, officials believe that, given time and freedom from further pressures, such as heavy grazing, the area will eventually recover. The Department will continue, I understand, to monitor the situation, providing ongoing support and guidance. However, another fire like this year's fire could be the final blow for the site.”
“The peatlands themselves are crucial habitats that lock away carbon, supporting our climate goals. When healthy, they also act as natural water filters, improving the quality of our lakes and rivers. For all those reasons, we must do everything in our power to protect and restore those vital ecosystems. <BR /> <BR />I am pleased to note that protecting peatlands from wildfires is a clear priority in the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs' recently published peatlands strategy. Across agencies, there is innovation and collaboration. The River Blackwater Catchment Trust, for example, is now exploring new ways to tackle wildfires, such as utilising drones.”
“<BR /> <BR />I express my sincere gratitude to the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, as well as to everyone else who put their lives at risk to tackle recent wildfires and to all those who worked so hard to restore our natural environment in their aftermath. <BR /> <BR />This year alone, more than 25 firefighters were deployed to tackle the fire at Sliabh Beagh, yet, despite their efforts, one third of that crucial area was significantly damaged in May. The River Blackwater Catchment Trust has warned us that it could take thousands of years for the peatland destroyed by fires at Sliabh Beagh to return to what would be regarded as ecological health. The bog is not only vital for biodiversity but serves as the home of the endangered hen harrier.”
“I also thank Colm Gildernew for raising this important issue for today's Adjournment debate. <BR /> <BR />As we move into colder and wetter months, it is understandable that our concerns about wildfires might diminish or be replaced by more seasonal issues, such as flooding or adverse weather conditions. However, the impact of wildfires on our natural environment does not fade with the seasons. Every wildfire, no matter how small, leaves a lasting and detrimental mark on our species and habitats. It is deeply troubling and unacceptable that many if not most wildfires are caused deliberately. The devastation to our environment, our wildlife and our plant life is serious and long-lasting.”
“We now need the delivery of that vital transport link.”
“Accessible, efficient and reliable public transport is vital for enhancing citizens' quality of life, regardless of their location. Achieving that requires increased public investment and improved connectivity between rural and urban areas. There may also be real action required with the public and private sectors working innovatively together to deliver. My colleagues in the Alliance Party and I remain dedicated to addressing the ongoing shortcomings in our rural public transport system. We aim for an inclusive, efficient and responsive network that serves all our constituents and meets our society's growing needs. The economic, environmental and social benefits of reinstating the Knockmore line and utilising the close proximity to a vastly improved and expanding Belfast International Airport must be prioritised.”
“The public profile and levels of engagement of those campaigns not only demonstrates the commitment of those involved but shows that there is significant public interest in sustainable public transport solutions. <BR /> <BR />Members and the Minister will be aware of the plans announced today, which include a new rail halt as part of Belfast City Airport's 2040 extension master plan. That sends a strong signal of the recognition that our region's growth relies increasingly on integrated and sustainable links and aligns with my calls for a renewed commitment to projects such as the reinstatement of the Knockmore line and improved airport access. <BR /> <BR />As I draw to a conclusion, I again urge the Infrastructure Minister to make decisions on the Knockmore line at pace.”
“With so much growth and potential, securing modern, sustainable connectivity for all is more urgent than ever. <BR /> <BR />It would be remiss of me in bringing forward this Adjournment debate not to use the opportunity to offer recognition and thanks to the individuals and groups who have worked hard in the community space to keep the Knockmore line issue in the public domain. The Circle Line Belfast and FundtheNINE's active campaigns to do better on our rail infrastructure have caught public and media attention, as well as promoting the real benefits of offering rail services to residents, commuters, businesses and tourists in the greater Belfast, south Antrim, east Antrim and Lagan valley areas and, indeed, well beyond.”
“Demand for public transport has soared with the increase in population, not just among commuters but among students who depend on reliable and affordable transport to universities, workplaces and social events. Sustainability is now a central priority, with more people seeking greener and more affordable travel options. <BR /> <BR />In addition to that, Belfast International Airport use has grown substantially, with more residents, students and tourists travelling than ever before. Significant tourism investment has put Northern Ireland on the global stage, and international visitors reasonably expect seamless transport, as is standard in many countries. Unfortunately, many leave here disappointed with our limited public transport, undermining our efforts to showcase Northern Ireland's best.”
“<BR /> <BR />I thank my Alliance colleague David Honeyford for persistently pressing the issue with the Infrastructure Minister and other Ministers. I express my gratitude to our colleagues on Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and on Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council for their efforts. The Alliance Party, I have to make clear, remains committed to ensuring that the Knockmore line reopens. <BR /> <BR />Since the closure of the line in 2003, Northern Ireland's communities and economy have changed significantly. In many ways, the case for reopening is stronger than ever. For example, Glenavy's population has doubled since 2003. Ballyclare and Templepatrick, which I mentioned, have also witnessed significant population growth. Our region has grown, but our infrastructure has not kept pace.”
“We recently learned that that report is complete and with the Department for Infrastructure. That is an important milestone, but it is just one step on a long path. <BR /> <BR />While I acknowledge the Department's deliberation, I urge it to give us clarity and a path forward as soon as possible. Our communities need a timeline, a budget and, most important, a commitment to develop this essential project. Of course, financial constraints are real — I understand the pressure that each Department is under — and, of course, Ministers must make difficult decisions to safeguard vital public services. However, reducing investment in public transport has a major ripple effect on our economy. Every pound spent on sustainable connectivity yields significant returns in opportunity, much of which I have outlined.”
“<BR /> <BR />Conversations that I have had with constituents, local businesses and organisations such as Antrim Chamber of Commerce have echoed one message: connectivity is not a luxury; it is a necessity. A reliable rail service is invaluable for commuters, families, young people seeking opportunity and older citizens wanting to stay connected. <BR /> <BR />Beyond the everyday advantages, reinstating the Knockmore line and extending it to Belfast International Airport would unlock enormous potential. Improved access would benefit domestic and international tourists, stimulate sustainable economic growth and help meet commitments on decarbonisation and balanced regional development. Progress, however, has been slow and, frankly, frustrating. It has been over two years since Translink committed to a feasibility study.”
“<BR /> <BR />I have spoken in the Chamber many times about how our rural communities across Northern Ireland remain chronically underserved and neglected by transportation infrastructure. Residents face significant and often overwhelming barriers to accessing essential services, stable employment and social amenities, primarily due to unreliable, infrequent or altogether absent public transport. That is especially difficult to accept when a transport line is built only to be prematurely closed, even more so when much of the rail infrastructure around it remains in place, seemingly ready for public use and being used by the operator for training and diversion purposes but not as part of the public network.”
“Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am grateful for the opportunity to address the Assembly in an Adjournment debate on an issue that is of great significance to my constituency of South Antrim and, indeed, to Northern Ireland. I am also grateful to the Minister for coming to the House to respond. <BR /> <BR />There has been long-standing support for reinstating the Knockmore rail line since it closed in 2003. It would reconnect the towns of Crumlin, Glenavy and Ballinderry and extend the service to Belfast International Airport. There could also be significant beneficial impact on accessibility and in increased public transport options in places such as Templepatrick and Ballyclare and other towns and villages throughout the area.”
“I thank the Minister for that. I assure her that I would welcome such a conversation, having previously raised, on a number of occasions, flooding in Antrim town and the flood risk on all stretches of the Sixmilewater river, for example, which affects residential properties and, indeed, commercial properties. Is the delivery of the flood alleviation plans in a timely way any closer than it was the last time I asked?”
“Will the Minister provide an update on the prostate cancer screening evidence review undertaken by the UK National Screening Committee and outline any preparation that his officials have undertaken ahead of the recommendations from that review?”
“By tightening the rules governing non-commercial movements from third countries, we will ensure that we are not inadvertently supporting harmful practices that are taking place abroad. <BR /> <BR />Alliance supports the LCM and anticipates the Bill's successful passage across the UK, as such an approach is essential if we are to end these illegal trades and inhumane practices for good. This is another important step in the journey towards animal welfare improvements. There are other steps in that journey, which have been announced or are planned by the Minister. It is my hope that there will be the political will to see those through.”
“It is concerning that there has been a recent increase in celebrities purchasing animals that have been subject to such mutilation. It seems that that has driven public demand. In 2023, the RSPCA received 354 calls related to ear cropping in dogs. It is essential that we convey from here the message that those unacceptable practices, which inflict unnecessary pain and suffering on defenceless animals, will not be tolerated. Although legislation banning those practices here exists, individuals can still import into Northern Ireland animals that have endured such cruel treatments elsewhere. That loophole, which effectively allows widespread animal cruelty, needs to be closed. We can no longer tolerate the mentality of out of sight, out of mind.”
“I will speak briefly as a member of the AERA Committee and Alliance spokesperson on agriculture, environment and rural affairs to express support for the extension of the Animal Welfare (Import of Cats, Dogs and Ferrets) Bill to Northern Ireland. The UK-wide approach to prevent the commercial import of mutilated or heavily pregnant animals from masquerading as non-commercial movements demonstrates our collective commitment to improving animal welfare standards in this region. I am pleased that the Welsh and Scottish Parliaments have given their legislative consent for the Bill, and I am hopeful that Northern Ireland will shortly follow suit. <BR /> <BR />Certain practices, such as the ear cropping of dogs and the declawing of cats, are still commonly performed, despite the significant harm that such practices cause the animals involved.”
“It empowers local councils to take action, enhances their capacity to undertake remediation work and, ultimately, makes our communities more vibrant places in which to live and work. The Alliance Party supports the Bill and we urge others to do likewise.”