Cathy Mason
South Down · Sinn Féin · Northern Ireland
“The result is that pupils can still face barriers, whereas a straightforward legal entitlement would have resolved the issue once and for all. <BR /> <BR />Picture this: one of our daughters is sitting in a classroom during her period. She is worried about leaking through her skirt. She is anxious about standing up.”
“We have no new arts strategy in the North, while, in the South, serious efforts were made to rebuild the sector following COVID. Arts funding here has suffered real-terms cuts of around 40%, while funding per capita in the South is around four times higher.”
“I, too, welcome the fact that this important legislation has reached its Second Stage. Like the Chair of the Committee, I thank the Committee for its hard work, and I thank the Committee Clerk, the Bill Office and the legal team for getting us to this point.”
“I thank the Member for that, and, again, I could not agree more. Would any of us accept not being able to wear a coat in the pouring rain or the freezing cold when we walk in here? I do not think so. <BR /> <BR />A girl should not have to ask for permission to wear trousers.”
“When the Assembly returned, I had intended to introduce a private Member's Bill to make school uniforms more comfortable for pupils and more affordable for their families. The Minister, however, indicated that he planned to address the issue himself, so I was unable to progress that legislation.”
“Across the North, many girls still do not have the automatic right to wear trousers to school. Instead, they find themselves having to seek permission, request exemptions or rely on the goodwill of individual schools. I have heard the Minister use that as an excuse for why this legislation is not needed.”
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“That process brings fresh hope that the construction of much-needed new homes in Downpatrick will commence in early 2025. That is a significant development after a long period of inactivity, and we are pleased to see momentum building to address critical housing needs in the area. The need for single lets and adaptable lifetime homes has never been more pressing, with many local families and individuals waiting for suitable long-term housing solutions. I am calling on the Minister to work to ensure that those homes are delivered now at pace. There cannot be any more delays. We need creative solutions to develop affordable and social homes in Downpatrick, Newcastle, right across South Down and, of course, right across the North.”
“I must add that our local housing officers do their very best to help and offer support. Again, the reality is that we do not have enough homes here in the North to place those families. To put a temporary roof over their head, families are being forced to move their children out of their local schools and out of the communities that they grew up in. We need the Minister and his Department to focus on fixing housing and on working to ensure that everyone, particularly young children, has a secure roof over their head. Housing is a human right, and the Minister must work to deliver safe, decent, social and affordable housing as a priority. <BR /> <BR />The recent announcement about the old Downe Hospital site in Downpatrick and the ongoing work by Clanmil Housing to turn the site into social housing is welcome.”
“That 25-year-old nursing student has been failed by the lack of available social and affordable housing, and she has been in and out of hotels and B&Bs since applying for social housing. <BR /> <BR />Homeless organisations provide vital support to people who are without a home, and I commend all those organisations, volunteers and everyone who has worked immensely hard to provide shelter to the homeless and the most vulnerable. However, they are under significant pressure. That is unsustainable and is putting further strain on those who provide help to the most vulnerable in our society. <BR /> <BR />How can we take tackling homelessness seriously when we still have not seen a long-term plan to tackle the issue? My office, like others, regularly deals with families that are facing homelessness.”
“There are many organisations right across the North that do great work to relocate and rehome vulnerable individuals. <BR /> <BR />The distressing reality for many who are at risk of homelessness is that they are likely to be forced to seek temporary accommodation in either Belfast or Derry if they are unable to rely on family and friends, which they should not have to do. That is the heartbreaking reality for many in South Down, and I sincerely worry for all those who are in temporary accommodation over the Halloween weekend after hearing really recently of the heavily pregnant woman in Derry who has been told that she must move within days from her temporary accommodation in a local hotel due to the city's Halloween celebrations.”
“It is clear that much, much more must be done to tackle homelessness across our society and particularly in South Down. As everyone else has done, I thank Andrew McMurray for bringing this vital issue to the Floor and for referencing those many Housing Executive stats from our constituency. <BR /> <BR />There is limited temporary accommodation in South Down. The Simon Community and MACS in Downpatrick provide a great level of support to those who are homeless or are at risk of homelessness. St Vincent de Paul, the Pantry Foodbank in Castlewellan and Newcastle and the Fountain Foodbank in Downpatrick are amongst the local organisations that go above and beyond to help vulnerable people access food, home-heating fuel, toys for Christmas and much, much more.”
“The health, well-being and future of our children depend on it.”
“A comprehensive strategy is urgently needed. We must ensure that young people are provided with the correct, up-to-date information on the risks of vaping. It is crucial that children understand the risks not just to their health but to their education and future. We need a comprehensive plan that goes beyond just banning single-use vapes. We need a strategy that tackles the vaping crisis on all fronts through education, better support for school staff and a legislative process that works. <BR /> <BR />Vaping is not just a school issue; it is a community issue, a health issue and an educational issue, and it requires a comprehensive, united response. Vaping in schools is a crisis, and we cannot afford to ignore it. Let us act now before more young people are harmed by this dangerous trend.”
“That serious child safeguarding issue must be addressed with urgency. Principals are also being forced to take extraordinary measures. Some have had to close certain toilet blocks and supervise others to prevent students from using those spaces to vape. That is simply not acceptable. Schools should not have to lock down essential facilities or stretch their already thin resources even further just to combat this issue. It highlights the severity of the problem and underscores the lack of support that schools are receiving. <BR /> <BR />The Minister of Education and his Department must step up and acknowledge their responsibility here. Teachers and school staff need support, training and the resources necessary to address vaping in schools effectively. It is not an issue that can be left to individual schools to solve on their own.”
“Some schools have been forced to vacate classrooms and designate safe spaces for students who are high on those substances. Just imagine the impact that that is having on the educational environment, not just for the students who are involved but for everyone in the school. It is unacceptable that under-resourced schools are being forced to surrender facilities to deal with those dangerous situations. <BR /> <BR />The educational and health impacts are profound. Not only are the students who vape those substances at serious risk but their peers are being affected. Children who witness a classmate being escorted out of a room because they are high on illegal substances can become distressed. Worse still, there are cases of students being spiked and unknowingly vaping substances that they are unaware of.”
“Students who are already struggling with nicotine addiction are being removed from their classrooms, missing valuable learning time and possibly falling further behind in their education. We need an expert-led process that aims to eradicate vaping in schools whilst ensuring that it does not create educational disadvantages for those children. The current response is not working, and it risks leaving vulnerable children even more marginalised. <BR /> <BR />Nicotine e-liquid vaping is only part of the issue. There has been a sharp increase in reports from principals that students are vaping marijuana, THC liquids and even more dangerous synthetic drugs such as spice. That is where the issue becomes even more concerning.”
“The most commonly used vape flavour amongst children is fruit, which 60% of young users are choosing. That tells us something important. We are not dealing with an accidental issue here. Vape companies are deliberately targeting young people with their products, and that should alarm us all. <BR /> <BR />Removing single-use vapes does not address the underlying pressures that young people face, particularly in a school environment where peer influence is strong. Schools are under enormous pressure trying to enforce disciplinary measures for students caught vaping on school grounds. Right now, the default position is often to suspend those who are caught, but that approach is causing further problems.”
“<BR /> <BR />In preparing for the debate, I met with a range of public health experts. It is clear that there are practical things that we can start looking at now that could make a difference. The Tobacco Retailers Act was introduced in 2014. Things have moved on so much since then, and we need to keep up. We could look at a new licensing regime for retailers who sell the products and get tougher on those who flout the law and sell them to children. These devices are marketed with bright, eye-catching packaging, appealing advertising and, most concerning of all, sweet flavourings that are designed to attract young audiences. A study from King's College London found that the colourful designs on vape packaging, alongside enticing flavour options, were far more appealing to young people.”
“They have also described scenes of police vehicles and ambulances being called to school grounds, sometimes on a daily basis. <BR /> <BR />Principals, teachers and school staff are rightly concerned about the rising number of children who are vaping. Their concern stems from the fact that they feel ill-equipped and unsupported in tackling the growing problem. Staff are struggling to keep up with the scale of the issue and they are doing so with minimal guidance and resources. The situation is untenable and unfair. Let me be clear though: the recent move to ban single-use vapes is a positive step. It shows a willingness to address the problem, but unfortunately it falls short of tackling the broader issue. The reality is that refillable and reusable vapes remain as easily accessible as disposable ones.”
“We are facing a growing crisis in our schools that poses a significant threat to the health, well-being and education of our young people. Vaping has rapidly emerged as one of the biggest concerns among schools, parents and young people themselves right across the North. Something that was once confined to a small portion of society, and was seen as a tool to help people stop smoking, has become one of the top disciplinary challenges for schools. I hear constantly from principals that vaping on school grounds is becoming uncontrollable. It is now one of the primary issues that they must deal with daily. I have sat in meetings with principals who have reached into their desk drawers and pulled out bags of hundreds of confiscated vapes.”
“Go raibh maith agat, a Phríomh-Leas-Cheann Comhairle.”
“Minister, you referenced the recommendation about reform and greater investment in early years provision, and you went on to highlight the work that you will do on professional development. Will that include the professionalisation of the early years sector, which desperately requires support with its workforce recruitment and retention?”
“I thank the Minister for that answer. When do you expect a Bill to be ready for consideration by the Assembly?”
“Two clubs from south Down competing for the prestigious Frank O'Hare Cup is a testament to the strength and competitiveness of football in that area. While Burren may have fallen short on this occasion, the players can definitely hold their heads high after a valiant effort in a hard-fought contest. I have no doubt that they will come back better and stronger. <BR /> <BR />As Kilcoo looks ahead to the Ulster Championship, I wish it the very best in the upcoming clash with Cavan in a few weeks' time. I have no doubt that Kilcoo will approach that challenge with the tenacity and determination that has become its trademark. I eagerly await Kilcoo's continued success as it seeks to progress. Furthermore, I hope to be standing here again in the near future, extending my best wishes for its all-Ireland campaign. Comhghairdeas”
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Kilcoo senior men's GAA team on its remarkable achievement this weekend in securing its sixth consecutive Down Senior Football Championship. The latest triumph marks a significant milestone for Kilcoo, as it has now won an astonishing 12 Down county titles in just 13 seasons, an unprecedented feat for a club representing a small but proud village in the heart of south Down. The level of dominance and consistency that Kilcoo has shown over the past decade is nothing short of extraordinary. It speaks volumes about the dedication, talent and spirit of the players and the wider Kilcoo community supporting them. <BR /> <BR />Yesterday's county final between Burren and Kilcoo showcased the talent that lies in our county, with Burren also putting in a commendable performance.”
“I thank the Minister for his response. Businesses in Downpatrick have really welcomed the scheme as a lifeline as they try to get back on their feet, but, as you will know, many of them are still struggling. There are also a number of sports clubs in the areas that have been impacted on, and they have received no support at all. Can you provide any detail of plans for any surplus finances and whether that money could go towards further supporting businesses and sporting organisations in Downpatrick?”
“I thank the Member for giving way. The Member will be aware that we have all received communication from local residents about the erection of new buildings at the port and whether they have anything to do with the Re-Gen operation. Has the Member received any communication from Warrenpoint Harbour Authority about the use and purpose of the buildings?”
“I thank the Minister for his statement. Can he provide the details of what factors will be considered in the assessment of local hospital sustainability to meet the future needs of our population?”
“I welcome the fact that there are now further studies to include the changes that have happened in the area. You mentioned consulting local representatives. How and when will that happen?”
“They should have access to clear, accessible information and support from the very early years. <BR /> <BR />I remain committed to working with colleagues from across the Chamber to address the challenges facing Irish-medium education. I will continue to advocate for the support, resources and interventions that our young learners deserve. By investing in those children now, we invest in the future of our language, our culture and our society.”
“Parents need to feel confident that their children will receive a well-rounded education that meets all their developmental needs.”
“That means investing in more Irish language child psychologists and speech and language therapists, and developing a workforce and development training plan. We need to see a more proactive approach to Irish-medium education from the Department. There should be an obligation for language-appropriate resources to be generated and supplied in-house, and for proper engagement with and support for families. <BR /> <BR />Irish-medium education should not be treated as an afterthought or secondary option; it is an integral part of our education system that deserves the same commitment and investment as other parts of that system. In line with that, there must be structured, ongoing engagement between the Department, Irish-medium early years providers and the families of children who choose that educational pathway.”
“<BR /> <BR />Children who wish their education journeys to be through the medium of Irish must be given proper support to ensure that they are as prepared as other children are to enter rang a haon”
“Irish-medium early years education provides a unique and vibrant educational experience. Many across the Chamber will be aware of the challenges that come with immersive education, but, with the right interventions, we can get it the support that it needs so that it can continue to flourish, giving young people the very best start in life. <BR /> <BR />I recently had the opportunity to meet representatives of Irish-medium early years providers. Our discussions shed light on a number of key issues, which I wish to bring to the attention of the Department of Education. Those issues need urgent action if we are serious about ensuring the success and sustainability of Irish-medium education at that key, foundational level.”
“Thanks for that answer, Minister. Was regional balance reflected in the businesses that made up the trade mission?”
“During our recent Education Committee meeting, the Education Authority stated that it provides little support to boards of governors when it comes to designing their school's RSE policy, which, of course, can be difficult to do. Does the Minister think that that is acceptable? What support will the Department provide?”
“That is something that, at times, we all need to hear. Here's to many more years of friendship, healing and community.”
“<BR /> <BR />On the night, each guest who was in attendance received a little memento, and it says:”
“That resonates so deeply with the journey of recovery. It is one that requires immense courage, patience and perseverance from the individuals and their loved ones. <BR /> <BR />Fifty years of service, care and unwavering support for individuals in recovery, as well as their families, is an extraordinary achievement. The compassion, understanding and dedication of everyone involved, past and present, have helped countless people to rebuild their lives and relationships, offering hope and healing to entire families. <BR /> <BR />Thank you again to everyone who made the event so remarkable. Your tireless work and commitment to this vital cause are truly making a difference. I look forward to seeing how ward 15 will continue to lead the way in supporting recovery and strengthening families over the next 50 years.”
“Since then, it has provided essential support and comfort to anyone who is experiencing addiction rehabilitation. <BR /> <BR />One quote that was shared on the night that really touched me and has stayed with me was:”
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Friends of Ward 15 on celebrating its 50th anniversary last weekend and a special thank you to Jim Mageean and Colum Polly and all the volunteers who organised and made the event marking the occasion at the Great Hall so memorable. It truly was an honour to be part of such a significant milestone, surrounded by the people who have made the organisation what it is today. <BR /> <BR />Hearing the many stories of how ward 15 has supported not only those facing addiction but their families was moving and inspiring. For those who do not know, Friends of Ward 15 is a vital support group in the Downshire Hospital in Downpatrick, which has given hope to thousands of patients with addictions. It was first created by ex-patients of ward 15 some 50 years ago in 1974.”
“I thank the Minister for her answer. Minister, in conjunction with that, what work is ongoing between your Department and the Education Minister on ensuring that any relevant parts of the ending violence against women and girls framework are rolled out across the education system?”
“I thank the First Minister and deputy First Minister for their statement and answers so far. Do they agree that much more must be done to make childcare provision more accessible and affordable?”
“Given the recent media coverage of security incidents at MPs' offices, what is the position on the provision of personal security advice and funding for Members of other legislatures?”
“What collaboration has there been between Health and Education on the provision of wrap-around services for the support of children with special educational needs?”
“Heartbroken families have been fighting for years, determined to get truth and justice for their loved ones. The pain of that night still reverberates through Loughinisland, yet it also serves as a testament to our community's resilience and unwavering pursuit of a better future. We stand, three decades later, not only to remember those whom we lost but to honour their memory by reaffirming our commitment to peace, accountability and reconciliation.”
“We extend our deepest sympathies and eternal solidarity to their families, who have borne the unimaginable burden of their loss with grace and dignity. Their strength continues to inspire us all. <BR /> <BR />The morning after the attack, the getaway car was found abandoned in a field near Crossgar. Almost two months later, the assault rifle used in the attack was found hidden at a bridge near Saintfield, along with a holdall containing boiler suits, balaclavas, gloves, handguns and ammunition. Despite various investigations, no one has ever been convicted for the Loughinisland massacre. <BR /> <BR />The pain of that night has been compounded by years of unanswered questions and significant allegations of collusion. While the 2016 report by the Police Ombudsman provided some answers, the pursuit of full accountability remains.”
“Thirty years ago today, the village of Loughinisland was shaken to its very core. As locals watched Ireland playing Italy in the World Cup, members of the UVF entered the Heights Bar in the small south Down village and opened fire. The men sprayed the room with more than 60 bullets. Six men were killed outright, and five other people were wounded. As families eagerly awaited the results of the World Cup match, their lives were shattered by an act of unimaginable violence. Today, three decades on, we honour the memories of Adrian Rogan, Malcolm Jenkinson, Barney Green, Eamon Byrne, Daniel McCreanor and Patrick O'Hare. We remember them today as fathers, sons, brothers, uncles and friends whose lives were cruelly cut short.”
“I welcome the ongoing work that the Minister's Department and others are doing for businesses and homeowners in Downpatrick, and I look forward to attending the information session. Is there an update on the homeowner flood protection grant scheme?”
“Will PEACE PLUS see a simplified assessment process and a reduction in the administrative burden on applicants and projects?”
“Despite its struggle to find its own home ground, it is embedded in the local community, and, on Sunday, that community, in turn, came together in its hundreds to raise money for the two worthy causes in order to help others who have found themselves with a similar diagnosis. I commend Ballynahinch Olympic for its actions in raising a huge sum for the two charities; the local community for its generosity; and the two men for their courage. I wish them and their families the very best in the time ahead.”
“Connaire and Steven are young, fit men who, along with their family and friends, have to come to terms with this difficult news, and I know that the local community has been a huge support to them so far. <BR /> <BR />Their story should remind us that all of these diseases do not discriminate. They can affect any one of us at any time. Both men, though, are tackling their diagnosis courageously, head-on, determined not to let their diagnoses stand in the way of them enjoying their lives to the full. Although changes in their lives are inevitable, they will not back down, and I have no doubt that their fun-loving personalities will carry them through. <BR /> <BR />Ballynahinch Olympic has once again shown that it is much more than just a football club.”
“I congratulate Ballynahinch Olympic Football Club on its hugely successful 24-hour sponsored walk and community fun day, which took place on Sunday past. Several members of the club completed a full 24-hour walk — a huge achievement — with many members, young and old, joining them along the way. <BR /> <BR />In the past while, the club has had to deal with the news that two of its very popular players and dedicated club members have been diagnosed with life-changing illnesses: Connaire Quinn was diagnosed with motor neurone disease and Steven Noade with multiple sclerosis. The club decided not to stand by and wallow but to get into action. It organised a fundraiser for two charities: the MS Society and the Motor Neurone Disease Association.”
“It is very welcome that the Minister is engaging so positively with his counterparts in the South. I especially welcome the announcement about the Shared Island Fund. I am concerned that nowhere in South Down has been included in the RAISE programme. What criteria were used to inform decisions on locations for the project?”
“<BR /> <BR />I thank the Finance Minister for her statement and her efforts thus far in what are extremely challenging financial circumstances. I look forward to working with others right across the Chamber to support our children and young people and their families.”
“All the evidence tells us that investment at the earlier stage of a child's journey is far more impactful. That is why prioritisation is so important. <BR /> <BR />Many of the issues that we want to see action on are cross-cutting. One criticism from the Assembly over the years has been that Departments often act in silos and do not talk to each other. It is important to make the point that, where shared objectives exist, Departments should work together and share funding and other resources to achieve them. It just makes financial sense. It is a good approach to policy, and, at the end of the day, that is what people want to see: their political representatives working together in the interests of all.”