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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“I ask that we move away from opinions and views to fact, so, in light of that, I ask this: what impact will the clarity of the assessment on the need for non-discrimination on the basis of gender reassignment have on the Executive Office's work on equality for all, including members of our trans community?”
“This represents a long-term commitment to creating a more compassionate society, and I strongly urge Members to support our amendment.”
“<BR /> <BR />Alliance supports the essence of the motion but believes that our amendment strengthens it by acknowledging the Minister's commitments, which he has already expressed, regarding the regulation of rescue and rehoming organisations. It also urges the Minister to uphold his prior pledges to improve animal welfare across Northern Ireland by bringing forward his animal welfare pathway. It is important that we use the current and developing frameworks, some of which were recently announced by the Minister, to do that. Therefore, the amendment is consistent with resource efficiency as well as with working collaboratively for best outcomes. It is essential that, in the 21st century, our councils, inspired by the work of dedicated charities and volunteers, are better equipped to uphold the welfare of our animals.”
“Although the percentage of stray dogs being euthanised has remained below 5% for several years, we must do everything that we can to ensure that such outcomes do not occur at all. That low figure of 5% is another example of the excellent work done by animal rescue charities and dedicated animal welfare volunteers. <BR /> <BR />The all-party group on animal welfare, which I chair, continues its vital work to strengthen collaboration among the Department, councils, stakeholders and the public, thereby improving our unified approach to animal welfare. That group remains crucial in raising awareness not just in the Assembly but outside it of animal welfare issues, including those under discussion today, and in championing legislative change that safeguards our beloved companion animals.”
“It is essential that animal welfare becomes a top priority across all levels of government in Northern Ireland. However, I stress — it must be made clear — that the legislation is clear: responsibility for non-farmed animals ultimately rests with district councils. The Department acknowledges that it has no legal authority to intervene and remains focused on farmed animals. That is where we are. Additionally, the Department regularly engages with councils to ensure, as far as possible, a joined-up approach. <BR /> <BR />Our collective aim should be to collaborate, with the Department's support, on developing a standardised approach across all councils. That will not only foster consistency in our animal welfare policies but, hopefully, prevent the unnecessary euthanasia of animals.”
“As part of that pathway, he recently announced a new expert advisory group on dog breeding standards that will implement actions to ensure that dog breeding practices in Northern Ireland align with best practice and are enforced through strong legislation. The advisory group will also review recommendations concerning canine fertility clinics, a pressing issue that requires urgent attention in Northern Ireland. By collectively championing the strategic initiatives proposed by the Minister, we can drive significant change that will enhance the welfare of animals throughout the region. <BR /> <BR />While we celebrate the progress that we have made, we must also recognise that considerable work still lies ahead, especially in our councils.”
“At this stage in the mandate, it is evident that the Minister is devoted to fulfilling his undertaking to prioritise the enhancement of animal welfare. For instance, he has pledged to introduce Lucy's law or something close to it in Northern Ireland, effectively banning third-party sales of puppies and kittens and prohibiting the use of shock collars as training devices. Members will have received much correspondence on that issue, and I, like others, have met people who are keen to see those matters develop and evolve. <BR /> <BR />Moreover, I eagerly anticipate more information regarding the Minister's forthcoming animal welfare pathway.”
“Through their hard work, many animals that would otherwise face uncertain futures are given a second chance to be loved and cared for. <BR /> <BR />Our amendment aims to recognise the ongoing efforts of the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to address the objectives that are outlined in the motion. Specifically, the amendment highlights the Minister's commitment, which is already in place, to exploring the need for inspecting and licensing rescue and rehoming organisations and bringing forward relevant legislation thereafter.”
“Thank you, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker. I would like to start by expressing my gratitude to the Ulster Unionist Party Members to my right for bringing this crucial issue to the Chamber today. The motion rightly highlights the invaluable contributions of organisations such as Dogs Trust and numerous rehoming charities that play a central role in safeguarding the welfare of animals in Northern Ireland. The Alliance amendment does not seek to overlook the dedication and unwavering passion of those organisations and their many volunteers. Those individuals invest their time and energy wisely and tirelessly in order to find loving homes for animals, to rehabilitate those that have suffered and to advocate for improved policies. Their commitment is nothing short of extraordinary.”
“I thank the Minister for the detail that he has provided in his answers. How is the Minister working with not only the Loughs Agency, as a cross-border body, but his counterparts in the Republic of Ireland to improve water quality in Northern Ireland?”
“I thank the Minister for her answer. The context is human waste on our roads and in Belfast lough, the Lough Neagh situation, the stalled living with water programme in Belfast and the calling in of forensic accountants, and, in managing our water, we are not in a good place. Does the Minister accept that a review should be undertaken urgently, with governance arrangements included in its remit and its outcome made public?”
“I thought that he had given way, Mr Deputy Speaker.”
“I understand that the situation will be slightly better than medieval warming.”
“I will give the Member a figure. The water temperature of Lough Neagh has risen by over 1°C, and he has seen the consequences. Climate change has been a contributing factor. It is not the only factor, but it has certainly been a contributing factor. Separately, when it comes to global responsibility — I would really like the Member to tell me what his global responsibility is — the Global South, which has undeniably contributed far less to climate change than industrialised and developed areas, is in a situation in which millions of people are already facing displacement from their home because of rising sea levels. Can the Member therefore define for the House his global responsibility?”
“I thank the Member, who has been incredibly patient. I want to ask him two things. First — I hope that he does not mind me asking — does he feel that some of what we are hearing today from the DUP is a bit rich, considering that that party thought that it was OK to spend around or over a quarter of a million pounds on magnetic pouches for a very limited number of schoolkids? Secondly, the Member has covered well the cost of doing nothing. On that theme, apart from the fact that doing nothing is much more expensive in the longer term, does he agree that the Climate Commissioner could play a vital role in ensuring that public funds are best spent in a coordinated and targeted way?”
“It is our collective responsibility to support the draft regulations today, recognising that immediate action is required and that further delays are simply not an option. We are more than a quarter of a way through the 21st century, yet the climate crisis remains real and urgent, as world events show us on an increasingly regular basis. It is now time to get on with it.”
“I thank the Member for the intervention, and I welcome the example that he gave. I can add another one — I am sure that he would agree with this — which is the rise in the water temperature in Lough Neagh. I know only too well about that in my constituency, and it will probably play out in the news again very soon this year. Additionally, in looking at our global responsibilities, however, we should acknowledge the fact that net zero targets that established national Governments set represent at least 87% of global greenhouse gas emission targets, so there is also a crucial part to play there. <BR /> <BR />As climate-related events escalate worldwide, the call for urgent action has never been clearer.”
“Unfortunately, some parties, including, very obviously, the DUP, continue to voice scepticism about the necessity of a Northern Ireland Climate Commissioner. However, we cannot afford to overlook the scientific consensus on the issue. The UK Climate Change Committee has publicly welcomed the establishment of such a role and highlighted the urgent need for strong leadership and coordinated action in addressing the climate crisis. That same —.”
“<BR /> <BR />We have faced instability in our Assembly and subsequent gaps in delivering crucial climate policies, including our pledge to support the appointment of a Climate Commissioner. Some are still trying to delay progress, raising concerns about costs and bureaucratic processes. Such delays and indecision jeopardise Northern Ireland's position in the global effort to protect our environment and, more importantly, the well-being of our communities. We cannot allow hesitation to hinder our progress any further. <BR /> <BR />Let us be clear: our planet must take precedence over short-term financial concerns. The nominal costs associated with establishing the commissioner should be viewed through the lens of the long-term benefits of a sustainable environment and what that will yield for communities and future generations.”
“Like my Alliance colleague who spoke previously, I am pleased to support these long-awaited regulations, which will represent, if passed, a significant step forward in our ongoing journey to a more environmentally sustainable future for Northern Ireland. <BR /> <BR />The appointment is not merely a legal requirement. The proposed Climate Commissioner will play a pivotal role in managing the delivery of our climate policies, advocating for nature recovery and supporting initiatives crucial to the protection of our species, populations, habitats and ecosystems. It is therefore crucial that the regulations before us be put in place so that the required progress is made.”
“I turn to the practicalities of tackling the fires in situ. The fires, which are often started by humans, whatever the means, destroy our natural environment. What difference has been made by the specialist equipment deployed by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency in tackling the fires?”
“— when we could have been making progress —”
“<BR /> <BR />It is probably important to mention today, with the backdrop of the report that I have referenced, that, although some scepticism has been expressed by some parties on the appointment of a climate commissioner and, indeed, on climate change in general, existing and emerging science shows that we must work at pace on climate action. That is especially important given that various collapses of the Assembly and gaps in delivery have resulted in Northern Ireland falling behind —”
“<BR /> <BR />The report contributes to the increasing evidence of the ongoing harm that we are causing to our planet and the anticipated impacts on our daily lives. As Members of the Assembly, we need to face that truth, as we are swiftly running out of time to undo the harm that we have caused and are still causing. The Alliance AERA Minister has already been working actively to address the effects of climate change, and such efforts require equal commitment from all parties. We have a responsibility to future generations to make sure of that.”
“We can anticipate more disruptions from flash flooding, which will hinder operations and extend drought periods, necessitating more water for crops. Furthermore, such unseasonal weather can have disastrous effects on farm planning and management and pose risks to animal health and welfare. <BR /> <BR />The report suggests that we might experience the peak of those effects in just 50 years' time. Nevertheless, we already see those issues arise, including increased water temperatures affecting Lough Neagh, along with biodiversity and species decline. Climate change is not a future threat: it is happening now and impacting on our farming methods and the well-being of our rural communities.”
“<BR /> <BR />The lead author, Dr Alan Kennedy-Asser, who is from Moira in County Down, said that the research emphasises the valuable insights that we can gain from local experts, such as those in Castlederg, which already faces the impacts of global warming: changes that other areas of Northern Ireland are likely to encounter in coming years. For instance, the study shockingly shows that extreme heat in Northern Ireland could result in nearly 100 deaths each year, primarily affecting rural communities. The statistics highlight that, as climate change intensifies, heat-related health issues such as cardiovascular and respiratory complications will emerge as more significant public health challenges. <BR /> <BR />In addition to public health, the report findings show that the impact on our agriculture sector will be significant.”
“I bring to the House's attention a recent report on the impact of climate change on Northern Ireland. The study, which was led by the University of Bristol and linked to Queen's University Belfast, provides critical insights into the increasing climate risks that our rural areas face, particularly regarding health and agriculture. The localised research that was conducted focused on towns across Northern Ireland, including Castlederg in County Tyrone, which holds the records for Northern Ireland's hottest and coldest temperatures.”
“I thank the Minister for his answer and for the references that he made to the type of activity to which I referred in my question. I suggest to the Minister that any review of existing community arts programmes or forward planning that may be put in place also include looking at the better utilisation of public spaces and facilities, such as local theatres and community halls.”
“I thank the deputy First Minister for her reply. I look forward to seeing those timelines. Will the appointment be regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments?”
“Will the Minister give us any information on what new legislative powers have become available to councils to assist enforcement against illegal dumping?”
“A critical Audit Office report, waste water issues associated with the Lough Neagh crisis, regular fish kills and other examples of pollution are stark reminders of improvements urgently required in water quality. Can the Minister give us any reassurance that the planned processes outlined in her statement will put water quality front and centre of any new or proposed budget restructures?”
“The Department's consultation document acknowledges that, in many cases, developers may pass on the cost of those contributions to customers and, therefore, make houses more expensive. Does the Minister accept that other funding models are available to help Northern Ireland Water that do not risk making our housing crisis worse or pricing lower-income families out of housing ownership?”
“Although Alliance supports the motion, I hope that Members will support my party's amendment, as it will make the motion better suited to bringing about the systemic change that is necessary in order to amplify women's voices and to reinforce our dedication to a more inclusive future for the agriculture sector. It also acknowledges the responsibilities of partners and encourages their participation. I hope that, as we move forward, the House, as one, can support the motion and the amendment with one voice.”
“It is crucial that there is a role for representative bodies in that. The AERA Minister has taken steps to enhance female involvement in the sector, notably through the launch of the Farming for the Generations pilot scheme. In his response to the debate, he highlighted that scheme in particular, as well as other progress that has been made and progress that is planned. <BR /> <BR />Importantly, our amendment underscores the fact that the Minister's goals cannot be achieved by the Minister or the Department acting alone. The active collaboration and participation from the agriculture sector that I spoke about is vital to that effort, facilitating a greater exchange of ideas and the sharing of resources and expertise.”
“Tellingly, she shared the voice of farmers' wives from her rural constituency of Fermanagh and South Tyrone, quoting her constituent Vicki Byers. Patsy McGlone spoke about the UFU's Women in Agriculture programme, and there were contributions from other AERA Committee members including its Chair, Robbie Butler, although he was not speaking in that capacity, Tom Buchanan and Aoife Finnegan. <BR /> <BR />As my colleague Sian Mulholland highlighted, the Alliance amendment underscores the importance of fostering strong relationships and open channels of communication between the Department, the agriculture sector and representative organisations. That collaboration is essential for implementing effective and enduring strategies that enhance female involvement and leadership in the industry.”
“<BR /> <BR />The debate began with Áine Murphy proposing the motion and referencing the fact that women often spearhead development and yet remain under-represented. That very much set the tone for the debate. In proposing the amendment, my colleague Sian Mulholland spoke of the lack of access to opportunities and the training barriers. She pointed out that the participation of women in agriculture in her constituency of North Antrim is 9·8%. <BR /> <BR />Michelle McIlveen spoke of the stereotype of the male farmer, despite the fact that women are often the glue that holds the farm set-up together. She spoke of historical structural barriers. Diana Armstrong said that the biggest challenge is getting the change in attitude that is required.”
“Thank you, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker. I thank the Sinn Féin Members for bringing this important motion to the Chamber for discussion. The debate has been constructive, featured many insightful contributions and highlighted the urgent matter of women's under-representation in the agriculture sector. Members have shared alarming statistics, telling a story of missed potential and talent. Women have long been essential contributors to agriculture, yet their roles often go unacknowledged and their voices unheard. Addressing that reality cannot be achieved overnight, but we must start by making significant strides towards change and real progress. <BR /> <BR />As we near the end of this vital debate, I will take a moment to reflect on some of the key points that Members made. After that, I will emphasise the importance of our amendment.”
“Following on from a response that the Minister gave a moment or two ago about reporting relevant information and being conscious of the shared responsibilities on these matters, can the Minister give us any information on how avian influenza is spread and how the spread of disease can be prevented?”
“I thank the Minister for her statement, which told us, amongst other things, that Judge Burgess is leading a working group on the issues that have been discussed today. Will the Minister give us any insight into Judge Burgess's views on her response to his recommendations and the Criminal Bar Association's response?”
“I thank the Minister for her statement. I note the short paragraph on biodiversity loss in the transport sector. On the basis of that, does the Minister think that an environmentally themed workshop is enough on climate and biodiversity need, or is she aware of any more ambitious programmes to plan for the future in that regard on a North/South basis?”
“I thank the Minister for that answer. The hyponatraemia-related deaths, the Muckamore Abbey abuse allegations, the neurology scandal, the infected blood scandal and much more have demonstrated very clearly the importance of having robust mechanisms in place to ensure honesty and transparency when things go wrong in health and social care. Can the Minister commit today to learning from those tragedies and playing his part in delivering statutory, individual and organisational duties of candour in the public services in Northern Ireland for which he has responsibility?”
“My apologies, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker: I beg your indulgence to mention my late brother Adrian. I simply cannot let the moment go without doing so. I recall his diagnosis and his days with Duchenne very clearly. I remember him with pride and gratitude for having had him as a brother. We have made some progress since those days. I hope that the Minister can give us more hope of seeing further progress in these days. Can the Minister give us any further information on discussions or consultations that are taking place with relevant groups or representative bodies on this?”
“I thank the Minister for that reply, especially the information about the increase in the subsidy scheme cap. Further to that, going back to the strategy, will anything be included in the strategy to expand the choice of childcare available for children with special educational needs?”
“I thank the Minister for his statement. Will Departments, once feedback is provided, be able to resubmit proposals that were not successful at the stage 2 assessment, given that many of them were a clear example of change in itself and of invest-to-save initiatives, such as the DAERA proposals on bovine TB?”
“I thank the junior Minister for her answer. Given that incidents of race hate continue, as seen, sadly, in south Belfast at the weekend and, to a worrying extent, in my constituency of South Antrim last summer, and given that the consultation was such a long time ago, may we have some detail today on what work has been done on drafting amendments?”
“I thank the Minister for the information provided on the energy efficiency capital grant scheme. Can the Minister outline how it will be budgeted for in the 2025-26 financial year?”
“I ask that you make a ruling as to whether that is being adhered to in the general run of business here, particularly in relation to the previous debate, and on whether Members are declaring an interest on every occasion on which they should in a way that is in keeping with their interests in the Register of Members' Interests.”
“On a point of order, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker. Standing Order 69(5) states, fairly clearly, I think, that, when a Member has a "financial interest in any matter" or a "relevant interest" in that matter, they:”
“We cannot afford to have ideology hinder progress in our agri-food sector, progress that the DUP itself has repeatedly and loudly called for in the Chamber. <BR /> <BR />I urge all Members to reflect on the broader implications of their actions today. We must adopt the measures to uphold our reputation for a robust and competitive agriculture sector that produces world-class, high-quality food products, while emphasising traceability and accountability as part of that. By doing so, we will safeguard public health and maintain the high standards that our agriculture sector is renowned for. I and my colleagues will, therefore, vote against the prayer of annulment and urge others to do likewise.”
“A robust regulatory framework helps consumer confidence, as I have said, but it also directly translates into sustained demand for local products, ultimately preserving jobs in farming and related sectors and protecting our local economy. <BR /> <BR />I also stress that the new regulations do not significantly change Northern Ireland's existing identification and movement processes. Instead, they provide much-needed certainty for the sector and ensure that we remain compliant with legislation that has already been recognised and accepted as necessary. <BR /> <BR />The DUP's latest resistance, driven more by ideology than actual concerns regarding the proposed measures, sends the wrong message to our farmers and businesses.”