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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“That is critical, as many property owners may be unwilling or unable to take action, which will leave the councils with no choice but to intervene. Having the means to recover those costs will not only support our councils financially but streamline the process of ensuring that our communities are safer and that their infrastructure is well maintained. Fundamentally, it is essential to recognise that local authorities are best positioned to understand the specific needs and circumstances of their communities. The Bill allows the flexibility to act in a manner that reflects those local priorities. <BR /> <BR />The Dilapidation Bill represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges that are posed by neglected and dangerous buildings in our communities.”
“Those properties are not only eyesores; they decrease property values, pose health and safety risks and have a harmful impact on the wider environment and community. The strong public support for action is therefore understandable, and I am glad that the AERA Minister has responded by bringing the Bill to the House. <BR /> <BR />Many of our councils lack the powers or mechanisms that are necessary to effectively address the issues. The Bill grants them discretionary powers to take action on such buildings, bringing Northern Ireland in line with the rest of the United Kingdom. Moreover, the enhanced cost recovery powers will make it feasible for councils to undertake the necessary remediation work themselves when required.”
“As Alliance AERA spokesperson, I express our support for the Dilapidation Bill at its Second Stage. As has already been indicated by others in the debate, this is a long-awaited and crucial piece of legislation that aims to empower district councils with the necessary tools to address the pressing issue of dilapidated and dangerous buildings throughout Northern Ireland. We all recognise the issues that are caused by neglected sites and deteriorating structures. I have been contacted by constituents who have expressed concerns about specific dilapidated buildings in South Antrim. I am sure that others in the Chamber have been contacted by their constituents with similar concerns.”
“I thank the Minister for giving way. At this stage in his response, can he give us his thoughts on the mention that has been made of migrant workers on two fronts? First, the impact on the availability of migrant workers due to Brexit, which the people of Northern Ireland did not want to start with. Secondly, the very direct impact on the availability of migrant workers and on the attractiveness of Northern Ireland to migrant workers of the recent direct threats and violence against them.”
“Clauses 5 and 6 are mainly technical and can be supported on that basis. <BR /> <BR />The legislation signifies a substantial step towards a more sustainable future for our horticulture sector. By fostering and nurturing local food production, advocating sustainable farming practices and ensuring fair access to markets for Northern Irish farmers, the legislation will directly contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of our food system while invigorating our local economy by creating jobs and driving growth. On behalf of the Alliance Party, I therefore express our support for the Bill, and we urge others to join us in that support.”
“That will strengthen the security and resilience of our grid systems, offering producers the stability that is required for consistent operations in an ever-changing and challenging climate.”
“Therefore, the legislation provides much-needed clarity and stability for future horticulture support, which many who work in the sector have welcomed. <BR /> <BR />Clauses 2 to 4, along with clause 1, will promote sustainable growth in our horticulture sector. Those clauses introduce vital reforms that are aimed at supporting our farmers and producers as we adjust to the post-Brexit environment, allowing them to succeed in a competitive global market. Alongside that, the clauses will enable farmers to embrace new technologies and methods that will enhance their livelihoods while benefiting our environment.”
“<BR /> <BR />I cannot speak on those matters without thanking the Assembly and the Committee officials for their work with the Committee in considering the Bill, as well as the departmental officials — they are here today — who provided numerous presentations and updates to the Committee to keep us informed throughout the scrutiny process. <BR /> <BR />As we move forward with the debate on the Bill, I urge all Members to keep in mind the wider implications of our decisions today, although it appears that there is cross-party support. For example, without clause 1, the Department would remain under a legal obligation to fund eligible claims under the FVAS scheme, which would restrict the Minister's ability to prioritise support in a manner that maximises value for money and effectively meets specific local needs.”
“<BR /> <BR />As a member of the AERA Committee, I express my support and that of the Alliance Party for the Final Stage of the Agriculture Bill. The legislation represents a step forward in aiding the fruit and vegetable sector, supporting our rural communities and ensuring a sustainable future for food production in Northern Ireland. <BR /> <BR />Members will be aware that the challenges facing the agriculture sector have recently garnered significant discussion inside and outside the Chamber, emphasising the urgent need for the legislation to progress smoothly. It is clear that the AERA Minister remains committed to tackling the challenges facing our agriculture sector and that he is actively working towards a more sustainable future in which agricultural and environmental sustainability are more evenly balanced.”
“Madam Principal Deputy Speaker, if I may beg your indulgence, I would like to make a few comments following the recent passing of my father. First, I thank you, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker, as well as the Speaker and Deputy Speaker Aiken, for being in touch so quickly to offer sincere sympathy and support. The same goes for every business area of the Assembly and for Members across the House from every party, who very sincerely offered their thoughts and prayers. There have been similar levels of support from many sectors, individuals and groups in Northern Ireland and from my South Antrim constituency. I record my sincere thanks and those of my family, and I assure everyone involved that their support brought great comfort and is still doing so.”
“If I may, I will take us back to the original question on air quality. Will the Minister outline how climate action can also improve air quality?”
“I thank the Minister for that reply. Further to that, what changes, if any, will the EA implement in time for the new school year?”
“I was tempted to congratulate some Members on getting as far as the 1920s and the plough in a debate on environmental matters, but that would be mischievous. <BR /> <BR />The Member referred a moment ago to the consultation. The proposer of the motion commented that the consultation was built without "them"; I assume that "them" is "the sector". Will the Member, on behalf of his party, clarify whether the consultation should be led by science, written by officials and fronted up by a Minister? Given the public interest and the public funding that are involved in this matter, will he clarify that no sectoral interests should be involved prior to a public consultation?”
“I did not want to breach any of your rules. <BR /> <BR />During the debate, the Member for West Tyrone Mr Buchanan referred to a University of Oxford report on water quality in rivers. For the House's information, the same point was made at a meeting of the AERA Committee. I had it clarified at that Committee meeting and written into the record that that report refers to four rivers in England and has nothing to do with Northern Ireland or the NAP. Is it misleading in any way or an example of presenting misinformation to bring such information to a debate in the House when it has been clarified at a Committee meeting that it is not relevant?”
“— we risk further deteriorating water quality and the perpetuation of a cycle of pollution that will affect all walks of life in Northern Ireland, including our agri-food sector.”
“Too often, parties call for more action to address Lough Neagh and protect our natural environment, yet, when it comes to making the difficult decisions directly, they pull back. To do nothing or slow down are not realistic options. The evidence shows that. <BR /> <BR />Average soluble reactive phosphorus levels in our waterways have increased by 55% since 2012. That, perhaps not coincidentally, corresponds directly with the introduction of Going for Growth. Research shows that 17% of farms produce 55% of manure nitrogen. Consultations on those matters in the context of the threat to our water quality should not be seen as controversial; they should be expected. If we allow the status quo to continue —”
“I will not give way. <BR /> <BR />I stress that the Minister has made it clear that no decisions related to the NAP have been finalised. Instead, the Minister has taken the initiative to try to establish a stakeholder group made up of agri-food and environmental experts. The group will review the proposals outlined, if it goes ahead, in the NAP, along with feedback from the consultation. Therefore, for clarification, a public consultation should not be seen as a final version, as the feedback from participants in the consultation will, of course, eventually shape the policy proposals and outcomes. <BR /> <BR />I urge the Assembly to consider the consequences of not translating our words into action, as that is, ultimately, what the programme, along with other initiatives and strategies from the Minister, facilitates.”
“<BR /> <BR />I must also address the misunderstanding in the motion: while the motion calls for the immediate withdrawal of the consultation to allow for stakeholder engagement, the consultation is, in itself, a platform for such engagement. It invites farmers, environmentalists and the wider community to contribute their insights. Instead of opposing the consultation, we should welcome it as a pathway to collaboration and genuine engagement that extends wider than sectoral interests.”
“I will respond quickly by saying that the environment, with the OEP in its governance role, should be a pretty significant part of the discussions. <BR /> <BR />There are farmers who already face the consequences of poor water quality, which threatens the viability of their operations. If the water in Lough Neagh continues to suffer from nutrient overload, it will affect not only those who farm the land but those who rely on clean water for drinking and leisure. It is crucial to recognise that the failure to address the nutrient overload in our waterways will lead only to a worse situation regarding food security; nor should we discount reputational damage to our products.”
“Once, perhaps. I am stuck for time. Go ahead.”
“It pointed out the insufficient progress made so far and stressed the importance of upholding and effectively implementing the NAP regulations in a timely manner. The OEP also indicated that, given the gravity of the situation, any failure to improve in the area may lead it to consider enforcement actions, which will, of course, lead only to further pressures on the Department.”
“It stated clearly that our agri-food sector is not sustainable in terms of our environment and must reduce its impact on our natural resources. The OEP has clearly communicated its position on the NAP consultation. In its guidance to the Department, it states:”
“<BR /> <BR />At this stage, I point out, as clearly as I can, so that we do not hear again what we have heard today, that we know that there is a vital need to address nutrient pollution not only from the agri-food industry but from waste water. The Minister has not been found lacking in that regard. The Infrastructure Department must also take action in parallel with DAERA to address waste water pollution. <BR /> <BR />Supporters of the motion will argue that the proposals could devastate our agriculture sector. However, the reality is that we cannot afford to choose between a healthy environment and a robust agriculture industry: the two are interconnected. That point was made clear by the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) when it briefed the Committee a couple of weeks ago.”
“However, we cannot ignore the stark reality that our agricultural practices have contributed to significant pollution of our waters, including, as I have mentioned, Lough Neagh. The alarming rise of blue-green algae in that vital waterbody is a clear sign that our waters are under severe threat. The nutrients action programme, which has existed since 2007, is not just a set of regulations; it serves as an essential framework for change, providing a solution that balances agricultural needs with environmental responsibilities. Importantly, the NAP consultation is science- and evidence-based, which reinforces its necessity.”
“It will come as no surprise to Members when I say that the Alliance Party firmly opposes the motion calling on the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to withdraw the consultation on the nutrients action programme 2026-29. The motion fundamentally misunderstands the urgent need for action to protect our environment, particularly in relation to the ecological crisis that we are trying to overcome at Lough Neagh. It also appears to undermine the very purpose of public consultation. <BR /> <BR />Agriculture is a cornerstone of our economy and a way of life for many in Northern Ireland. It is vital for feeding our communities, supporting jobs and protecting our rural landscapes.”
“I thank the Minister for that reply. Are there any plans to develop a timeline to measure progress on how those matters develop?”
“How is the Department supporting pathways for Northern Ireland players to reach the Ireland national teams in the men's, women's and under-age sectors?”
“Along with my Alliance colleagues, I share the concerns that have been raised by other Members. I thank the Minister for his statement. Is the situation at Mobuoy holding up the delivery of the A6 road upgrade?”
“I thank the Minister for that answer. That being the case, does she have plans to deliver a new single youth community order?”
“I thank the Minister for that answer, outlining the pathway that is required. In addition, what actions is she as Minister or the Department taking to address those challenges?”
“I thank the First Minister for that answer. A racial equality strategy, including ethnic equality monitoring, an update to the Race Relations Order 1997 and an international relations strategy and Europe strategy are key to delivering for that community and all others, so can she give us any indication of what progress has been made on those strategies?”
“I add my good wishes to those that have been expressed to you on your birthday, Mr Speaker. <BR /> <BR />First Minister, given that each Department is a separate legal entity that is free to set up arm's-length bodies and non-departmental bodies as it sees fit, within reason, what role does the Executive Office have in implementing efficiencies in that regard? If it has none, is that not another strong case for reform?”
“And again, it appears. It was during questions on the ministerial statement that we have just heard and during Members' statements earlier. <BR /> <BR />Mr Speaker, will you rule on whether it is appropriate to mention a person's attire and to accuse a person of being an extremist? Those comments were contained in a Member's statement and in a question. Do such remarks constitute a direct and personal attack on a Member, whether that Member is a Minister or not?”
“Mr Speaker, I seek your ruling on the comments made and wording used by Mr Buckley during —.”
“I am pleased to hear that the British-Irish Council has commended the work that is being done on marine litter and the marine environment more generally. Minister, what action is being taken to protect blue carbon habitats and the wider marine environment?”
“In closing, I encourage everyone to wear orange this Thursday as a show of support for these remarkable animals. That will highlight our dedication to safeguarding our ecosystems and denouncing all forms of animal cruelty. Of course, I also urge all Members to join me in supporting my private Member's Bill when the opportunity arises. Nature has no room for cruelty, and it is high time that the Assembly consigned the barbaric practice of hunting foxes for sport to history.”
“<BR /> <BR />Celebrating Fox Day therefore offers us a platform to educate ourselves about the critical importance of wildlife conservation and to stand firmly against any unnecessary harm that is inflicted on those creatures. That is why legislation is required to protect our foxes. Members will know that it is my intention to bring legislation to the Chamber imminently, through a private Member's Bill, to ban hunting wild mammals with dogs.”
“Today, I join the League Against Cruel Sports in recognising the importance of Fox Day, which will be celebrated this Thursday. That annual event gives us the opportunity to honour those extraordinary animals, to highlight their vital role in preserving our ecosystems and to advocate for their protection against cruelty. For centuries, foxes have been an integral part of Northern Ireland's wildlife. As a native species, they are revered for their adaptability and their intelligence. Foxes' presence in our environment not only is a testament to a healthy habitat but underscores their essential contribution to the biodiversity of our region. By supporting initiatives that protect those remarkable creatures, we ensure that future generations can enjoy and appreciate the unique wildlife that defines Northern Ireland.”
“They are a necessary follow-on from and appear to build on the environmental farming scheme, and I hope that the Minister, when he responds, will clarify further the future of that scheme. <BR /> <BR />I urge all Members to support the regulations so that farmers can be recognised and rewarded for their vital role as custodians of the land. The Alliance Party will continue to ensure that nature-friendly farming becomes an attractive and financially viable option for our farmers. Farming with Nature is an appropriate title for a timely programme, because there can be no farming without nature.”
“The actions outlined in the initial phase, such as planting new hedgerows and trees and planting farmland with multi-species winter cover crops, are essential for enhancing biodiversity, improving soil health and sequestering carbon. Those steps lay the groundwork for making genuine strides in mitigating climate change whilst supporting our agriculture sector. <BR /> <BR />Importantly, the Minister has emphasised that this is just the starting point for his Department's ambitions, with plans to significantly expand the initiatives in the coming years. As I have said many times in the Chamber, farming and environmental sustainability must go hand in hand. The regulations mark a broader commitment to sustainable practices that will grow in scope and impact.”
“Addressing the issues presents a significant ongoing challenge for various reasons, including budget constraints, as discussed literally moments ago in today's Budget debate. <BR /> <BR />The Farming with Nature Regulations represent a further initiative from the Minister that will move us closer to achieving a more sustainable agriculture sector in Northern Ireland. If the regulations are passed, the transition scheme will commence next month, empowering farmers across the region to adopt nature-friendly practices that not only preserve but enrich our environment. The intention behind the package is clear: to support our farmers in cultivating a future in which agricultural practices contribute positively to the protection of our habitats and ecosystems.”
“Thank you, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker. <BR /> <BR />I support the draft Farming with Nature Regulations announced last week by the AERA Minister at the Balmoral show, a timely occasion for such an announcement. Indeed, the Balmoral show highlighted the pivotal role that agriculture plays in the daily lives of individuals and communities throughout Northern Ireland. Our rich agricultural heritage was showcased, and the emphasis was on farming as a significant contributor to our local economy. It was encouraging to the Minister's presence at the show over a number of days, if not every day. His commitment to finding a balance between agricultural sustainability and environmental responsibilities is truly commendable, especially in today's challenging landscape.”
“Like other members of the AERA Committee, I know something of the effort that the Minister has made with the UK Government, and, indeed, with the EU, on these matters. What help might be provided from the announcement to assist us with making progress on climate and on the environment more generally?”
“I thank the Minister for that reply. Can he give us any information on the work that his Department or its agencies might be doing with other bodies to ensure that progress is made in ensuring that victims of domestic abuse can be better supported to access social housing and on how the Department is helping to better shape such policies and partnerships?”
“Minister, what actions in the disability and work strategy fall under your Department's direct ownership? How will they be prioritised for implementation?”
“<BR /> <BR />Recognising the vital importance of accessible, efficient and reliable public transportation is crucial to enhancing the quality of life for all citizens, irrespective of their geographical location. Achieving that goal will require significant increases in public investment and enhancing connectivity between rural regions and urban centres, which are often viewed as hubs of opportunity. Members will be aware that, even within council areas, connectivity is a challenge. My Alliance colleagues and I will continue to advocate on the matter and address the ongoing shortcomings in our rural public transport system. We need an urgent review and action soon thereafter.”
“They face unnecessary detours and complications just to reach appropriate bus stops that should, ideally, be located within their neighbourhoods. Furthermore, I have heard from young people, especially students, about the difficulties that they encounter due to inadequate rural transport in my constituency. For example, those who lack access to a car struggle to obtain part-time jobs, which are essential to the local economy as well as to those young people's development. They also have difficulties in participating in university or college classes and social activities, which can negatively affect their mental and physical health.”
“<BR /> <BR />The current transport situation not only continues systemic inequalities but creates a major obstacle to economic growth and social progress in those communities. For instance, in my constituency, the towns of Randalstown and Toome are situated along the primary route to Derry/Londonderry. Despite my Alliance colleagues and I attempting to negotiate and secure access to that bus route for either Belfast or Derry/Londonderry, we have encountered bureaucratic obstacles and disappointments. At the opposite end of my constituency, in Glenavy, my constituents regularly express frustrations about the inadequacy of the public transport services that should facilitate their children's commute to and from school.”
“I rise as a representative of South Antrim to draw attention to the unsatisfactory state of rural public transport across the constituency. Across Northern Ireland, our rural communities remain severely underserved and neglected by transportation infrastructure. Residents in those areas face significant and, often, overwhelming difficulties in accessing essential services; stable employment opportunities; and social amenities and activities. That is primarily due to the unreliable, infrequent and, at times, entirely absent public transport provision that is available to them. It is disheartening to acknowledge that, despite the combined efforts of local representatives and community champions to advocate for improved services, the needs and voices of rural residents continue to go unheard.”
“I thank the Member for giving way. As my colleague and friend, she knows that I seldom refer to my personal circumstances in the Chamber. However, she also knows that I, as an openly gay representative in the 1990s and noughties, suffered snide remarks, gossip and blatant harassment, which ended up in court and is a matter of public record. Does the Member agree that those who did that then would simply not get away with doing it against the gay community, and that they know that? I expect that, if they thought that they would get away with that, they would try, but they would not get away with it today. Does she agree that, for them, trans people are simply the new target and that they cannot be shamed in that regard?”