Cheryl Brownlee
East Antrim · Democratic Unionist Party · Northern Ireland
“I want to recognise three outstanding East Antrim candidates for this year's BBC 'Make a Difference' awards. Their passion, dedication and commitment has made a lasting impact on East Antrim.”
“Individuals such as Iris often work quietly behind the scenes and give their time and energy without seeking any recognition. Iris has become the backbone of community life. Her nomination reflects the esteem in which she is held in Islandmagee, where everybody loves her.”
“I thank the Minister for his response. We have over 17,000 children and over 4,000 adults on the waiting list. They are waiting for up to six years for an assessment. <BR /> <BR />Minister, in the delivery plan, there are no measurable targets to reduce those waiting times.”
“It showcases everything that is best about Carrickfergus and beyond, from the magnificent historical re-enactment to the participation of over 40 marching bands, Orange lodges, children's entertainers, pipers, Highland dancers, Lambeg drummers, community groups, living history performers, volunteers and many more.”
“I recognise the outstanding success of the Royal Landing celebrations held in Carrickfergus on Saturday. Once again, thousands of people lined the streets of our historic town to witness what can only be described as a spectacular re-enactment of one of the most important moments in Ulster's history: the landing of King William III at Car…”
“They overlook the volunteer time, the hours that are taken to preserve our history, the young people who spend their evenings participating in bands and cultural organisations and the thousands who attend with pride and enthusiasm.”
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“I thank the Minister for his answer. It is a certainly a huge step forward in improving the service for autistic individuals. I welcome the training, but will it be extended through to adult mental health services as well? Will it be mandatory?”
“My question follows on with the issue of alcohol and drug use. That was mentioned in the statement, but what was discussed? What update was provided in the meeting on how we can improve those services throughout Northern Ireland?”
“I have engaged directly with the Chief Constable on the issue, and police communication and visibility have improved. However, it is clear that this is not a problem that can be solved by any individual, agency or organisation alone. It is a challenge for us all: elected representatives, police, community leaders, family and, most important, the young people themselves.”
“The Marine Gardens area continues to see large gatherings, particularly at weekends, which leaves many residents feeling intimidated and unsafe. <BR /> <BR />I want to be clear: the antisocial behaviour does not represent the majority of our young people. Across Carrickfergus, we are so lucky to have so many inspiring young people and incredible organisations working day in, day out to make such a difference. Chill, Carrickfergus Community Forum, Carrick YMCA, Communities in Transition and many more groups and initiatives do an outstanding job, as Carrick Connect did previously, to build relationships, prevent harm and offer real support. Their work makes a huge difference on the ground in engaging with our young people and defusing issues before they escalate.”
“Those mindless acts of vandalism have not only put considerable financial strain on the club, which must now foot the bill for repairs, but taken a toll on the dedicated volunteers who give up their time so freely. Two young boys, Logan and Carter, kindly gave up their time to help clean the area. Their actions are a reminder that the vast majority of our young people are compassionate and responsible and care deeply about their community. <BR /> <BR />Barn United has engaged proactively with the Communities in Transition initiative and the PSNI in developing youth intervention projects, such as the Game Bus, to encourage positive youth engagement and respectful behaviour. Given those efforts, the repeated incidents of antisocial behaviour are understandably disheartening. It does not happen only at that club.”
“I rise to highlight the growing and concerning issue of antisocial behaviour in the Carrickfergus area. Sadly, it is not a new problem in any part of Northern Ireland, but, in recent months, the scale and severity of incidents in Carrickfergus have increased significantly. <BR /> <BR />This past weekend, the Barn United Football and Social Club was once again targeted and damaged. On three separate occasions last week, club members arrived to find broken glass scattered across the 3G pitch, a stand destroyed, dugouts vandalised and surrounding infrastructure damaged. Even the CCTV system has been smashed. Barn United is a community club that is run by volunteers to serve the people of Carrickfergus.”
“It shows the difference that a service can make to people's lives when it is well designed and supported. Today, let us choose to lift the weight off the shoulders of those who are trying to keep their balloon in the air, act with urgency, compassion and clarity so that people understand where we are going, and drive forward quality standards for diabetes care.”
“We call on the Minister of Health to ensure that regional participation in the audit is prioritised, supported and delivered as was committed to in the strategic framework. <BR /> <BR />Of course, none of that will come without challenges. We recognise the immense financial pressures facing the Department of Health. Implementing the hybrid closed-loop system will require not only devices but training, infrastructure and service design. However, the cost of inaction in complications, hospital admissions and early deaths is, sadly, far higher. <BR /> <BR />I will finish with some of the positives when we get it right. I know from my experience that the care of the diabetes team in the Northern Trust is nothing short of exceptional. Its compassion, education and understanding is a model of best practice. It is truly fantastic.”
“In those regions, the audit has shaped better services and continues to drive stronger outcomes. In Northern Ireland, we are still not fully participating in the National Diabetes Audit despite the commitments that were made nearly a decade ago. Infrastructure challenges, including delayed systems, mean that we do not have a full picture of how our diabetes services are actually performing. Without robust data, how can we know whether our care is right? Without clear measurement, how can we improve? Without understanding, how can we allocate our limited budgets wisely? We note, with deep concern, that Northern Ireland has not yet been able to benefit from the insights of that audit. That, of course, must change.”
“<BR /> <BR />The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has formally endorsed the use of hybrid technology through its technology appraisal guidance TA943, yet, today, while some children and adults here in Northern Ireland are clearly benefiting from that incredible technology, access is not equal and depends far too often on where you live. It is the cruel reality of that postcode lottery. That is despite clear commitments that were set out in our own diabetes strategic framework, dating back to 2016, which prioritised access to technology and better outcomes. <BR /> <BR />Alongside that, data is critical to drive improvements. The National Diabetes Audit that is undertaken in England, Scotland and Wales collects vital information, tracking outcomes, highlighting service gaps and identifying inequalities.”
“<BR /> <BR />I also want to touch on the challenges of transitioning to adult services. Recently, I worked with the family of a young man with complex learning difficulties who was successfully managed with a hybrid closed-loop system during his paediatric care. However, on transitioning to adult services, the support for that technology was withdrawn. He was expected to revert to multiple daily injections and calculations, which he clearly could not manage. Only after significant advocacy was the decision reversed. That case underscores the need for clear, compassionate transitional pathways that consider the unique needs of individuals with additional challenges.”
“It matters especially for children and vulnerable adults — those who may not be able to recognise the signs of dangerously low blood sugar in the time to act. <BR /> <BR />Whilst Northern Ireland has made significant strides in providing continuous glucose monitoring systems, challenges still persist. The Dexcom G6 is a real-time system with customisable alerts, but it is currently not listed on the Northern Ireland drug tariff. As a result, it cannot be prescribed in primary care and funding is not routinely available. That situation has led many families to self-fund those devices despite their critical role in enabling hybrid closed-loop systems and providing peace of mind, especially for parents of young children who may not be able to recognise the signs and symptoms of blood sugar levels during the night.”
“Technological advances, particularly continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and hybrid closed-loop (HCL) systems, have transformed what is possible. Hybrid closed-loop systems are often referred to as an artificial pancreas, as they integrate insulin pumps and glucose monitors to adjust insulin delivery automatically throughout the day and night. Rather than multiple daily injections, constant finger-pricking and complex calculations, individuals simply input the carbs that they consume, and the system does the work for them. However, that is not a luxury. It dramatically improves blood glucose control, reduces hypos, improves sleep quality, reduces hospital admissions and gives people back their freedom.”
“That is why we are here debating this important motion to drive forward quality standards in diabetes care in Northern Ireland. <BR /> <BR />First, the Assembly must recognise what the data clearly tells us, which is that diabetes is on the rise. Almost 115,000 people here live with diabetes, and that number continues to grow year-on-year. Type 2 diabetes accounts for most of those cases, but, among children, 98% of those diagnosed have type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune condition that cannot be prevented. Without urgent action, the health and well-being, and the very future, of thousands of our citizens is at risk. <BR /> <BR />One of the most critical elements for improving the life of those living with diabetes is technology.”
“Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. Diabetes is a chronic illness, the complexity of which is often misunderstood. For a person living with diabetes, managing the condition is not something that is left until a check-up or a hospital appointment. It is every moment of every day and involves a constant cycle of monitoring, adjusting, planning and reacting. One of the best depictions that I have ever seen of what it is like is a simple video of a person going about their day, walking, working and parenting, all the while trying to keep a blue balloon in the air, constantly adjusting, constantly being aware and never quite being able to rest. Sometimes the balloon drops and sometimes it soars away, but the focus is always there, and it is exhausting.”
“<BR /> <BR />I congratulate Mid and East Antrim Borough Council on its autism-friendly initiative, delivered in partnership with the Northern Health and Social Care Trust. Its outstanding work was recognised recently at the Local Government Awards. It won the local government equality, diversity and inclusion award. I say a huge "Well done" to Fiona and the entire team for that fantastic achievement: an initiative that puts individuals at the heart of everything that the council does. That is a fine example of what can be done when government, health services and communities come together for a more inclusive society. Well done.”
“Autism is not something to be treated or fixed: there is no pill or cure. What makes a real difference is understanding, compassion and the right support structures. Many parents and carers feel overwhelmed, isolated and exhausted from fighting for resources. We need to ensure that they have the support services and that those services are kept at pace with diagnoses, providing effective pathways for education, employment and living. <BR /> <BR />Autistic individuals bring incredible talents, perspectives and strengths to our society, yet many adults in Northern Ireland are unemployed and suffer mental health challenges. It is clear that we must do more to create meaningful opportunities.”
“In 2019, a report by Professor McConkey provided a comparative analysis that showed that the prevalence of autism in Northern Ireland — one in 20 school-age children or 5% — is similar to that across the UK, yet the way that the statistics are portrayed can create unnecessary concern, misunderstanding and a stigma towards those with autism. <BR /> <BR />What sets Northern Ireland apart is that we have some of the best-trained psychologists and psychiatrists in the UK, the most comprehensive legislation and a system that identifies and diagnoses autistic individuals earlier and more accurately. We should be very proud of that. Every diagnosis matters and allows individuals and their families to access the support and strategies that they need to navigate daily life. Diagnosis is the first step.”
“I am also a member of the APG on autism and wish to mark World Autism Awareness Day, which will take place tomorrow. It is a day that is dedicated to understanding, acceptance and support for autistic individuals and their families and is an opportunity for us all to reflect on how we can create a more inclusive society. Small actions can make a big difference, whether it is taking the time to learn more about autism, offering understanding and patience in daily interactions or advocating for better services. <BR /> <BR />There can be a misrepresentation of Northern Ireland's autism figures, with the suggestion often being that we have significantly higher rates than those in other parts of the UK. However, research tells a different story.”
“<BR /> <BR />It has been a pleasure to work closely with the club in recent years, supporting its work to improve facilities at its home ground and increase its community outreach and engagement across the east Antrim area. With the McCrea Cup semi-final still to come, there is even more to look forward to — there will probably be two Members' statements in the Chamber after that as well. <BR /> <BR />Congratulations, once again, to Carrickfergus Rugby Club — a club that is built on passion, resilience and an unbreakable team spirit. Well done.”
“Their hard work throughout the season, of course, has truly paid off, and the victory is a testament to the club's commitment and passion for the game. <BR /> <BR />Adding to the celebrations, of which there were many, Carrick's under-18s put in a fantastic performance in their U18 Bowl final, eventually sharing the trophy after a hard-fought 12-12 draw with Clogher Valley/Omagh at the Meadowbank Arena. It was a brilliant achievement for the club's rising stars. This success is not just about the players on the field. It is a reflection on the coaches, volunteers and loyal supporters who continue to drive the club forward. Carrickfergus Rugby Club has a rich history and a strong community, and this latest triumph is a proud moment in their journey.”
“I, too, raise the fantastic achievements of Carrickfergus Rugby Club. I do not think that we can praise them too much for their fantastic achievements over the weekend. Of course, the first XV lifted the Junior Shield, securing victory against Ards at the Kingspan Stadium on Saturday after a fiercely contested match. Carrick showed immense dedication, defence, strength and teamwork to secure a 17-13 win, bringing home their first silverware since 2016 and appearing in their first senior final at Ravenhill since 2002. In challenging conditions, the team displayed resilience and composure, and standout performances from Ryan McGonigle, Mattie Hadden and Fionn McCormack alongside a full squad effort saw them hold off a late Ards push.”
“I have no doubt that she will achieve much more.”
“<BR /> <BR />Beyond the titles and victories, what truly sets Skye-Leigh apart is her role as a trailblazer for young female athletes. She has proven that, with determination, hard work and self-belief, barriers can, of course, be broken. Skye-Leigh's achievements are not just her own; they have inspired so many young women and shown them that they too can excel in sports that were once seen as male-dominated. As a former boxer — many years and, unfortunately, many stone ago — I can truly say that there is nothing as scary as walking into a boxing ring knowing that you are about to be punched in the face. It is a sport that requires immense patience, dedication, sacrifice and grit. Skye-Leigh, her family, her club and, of course, Carrickfergus should be very proud of what she has achieved so far.”
“I congratulate Skye-Leigh Haighton from Evolution Boxing Club in Carrickfergus for her tremendous achievement at being named junior sportsperson of the year at the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council sports awards. That recognition is a true testament to Skye-Leigh's unwavering commitment, extraordinary talent and, of course, inspiring journey into the world of boxing. <BR /> <BR />From a young age, Skye-Leigh has shown dedication to her sport, overcoming challenges and pushing herself to achieve greatness in the ring. Her success is evident in her impressive list of accomplishments from becoming the national senior cadet champion to her international appearances, including a standout performance at the Golden Girl Championship in Sweden.”
“Thank you to the Minister; I very much welcome the statement. On raising the age of compulsory education, it is noted in the report that jobs require a higher level of skill. Minister, will you detail what your Department has done to collaborate with the Department for the Economy to ensure that your work aligns with the skills needs of Northern Ireland and that there is the best possible outcome for every child?”
“Thank you, Minister. We can all agree that all we want to do is improve the lives of those with autism. What steps are being taken to ensure that sensory-friendly adjustments, such as quiet areas, sensory toys, trained staff and better changing facilities, are available in hospital environments, particularly A&E, to better accommodate individuals with autism and their families?”
“Women such as her are paving the way for more young girls to see science and innovation as a career path that they can and should pursue. We have so many women who have challenged stereotypes, broken down barriers and paved the way for future generations, and we are incredibly proud of them all. <BR /> <BR />As we mark International Women's Day, we must commit to accelerating that action, not just today but every day. We must ensure that the next generation of women and girls grows up in a world where equality is not just an aspiration but a reality. Today, we remember the incredible women — our mothers, grandmothers, sisters and friends — who work tirelessly in the home, in business, in politics, in sport and in science to shape our future for us all.”
“We must ensure that every woman and girl has the same opportunities to study, work, lead and succeed. <BR /> <BR />International Women's Day is a time to celebrate women's achievements and highlight the incredible contributions that women make in all aspects of life, particularly in areas where they have historically been under-represented. In sport, we have seen phenomenal role models such as Rachael Blackmore, the first female jockey to win the Grand National, prove that women belong at the highest level of all competitions. Locally, Marissa Callaghan, captain of the Northern Ireland women's football team, has been an inspiration, leading her team to its first major tournament. In STEM, Northern Ireland is home to pioneering scientists and engineers such as Professor Tara Moore, a world-leading researcher.”
“The answer is pay gaps; workplace discrimination; unequal access to leadership; the high cost of childcare; family and caring responsibilities; gender-based violence; and online abuse. All those issues remain real and pressing. <BR /> <BR />In Northern Ireland, women remain under-represented in politics and business, although there has been significant progress. The cost of childcare remains a significant barrier to career progression. Too often, women are more likely to be in lower-paid or part-time work. I know from personal experience that, without childcare support, there would be no way for me to be in this Building. Such support allowed me to continue my studies at uni and enter employment. Without it, I would definitely not be here today.”
“Today, as we gather to mark International Women's Day 2025, its theme, "Accelerate action", is not just a slogan. It is a call to urgently demand real and immediate progress towards achieving gender equality. It is recognition that, while change is happening, it is not happening fast enough. <BR /> <BR />For too long, we have spoken of gender equality as a distant goal that we aspire to achieve in the future, but the future cannot wait. Women and girls across Northern Ireland continue to face barriers in their personal and professional lives. As the motion rightly highlights, we must increase our momentum and urgently tackle those challenges. If we are serious about gender equality, we must ask this: what is holding us back?”
“The Programme for Government gives us the framework, and it is now our time to deliver.”
“However, we are very serious about delivering real change, and we must start by improving communication, ensuring that young people and children with SEN, their families and educators know what is happening, understand their rights and can trust that the system is designed to support them. That means clear, ongoing communication at every stage of assessment, placement and the transition to long-term opportunities. It means listening to those with lived experience and ensuring that their voices shape policy and delivery. We can get this right, and we will build a stronger, fairer and more effective system and one where children and young people with SEN are supported, empowered and given real opportunities for the future. That is an absolute priority of my party and our Government.”
“Too many teachers and support staff feel overwhelmed and under-equipped to meet the needs of children with SEN, and that is why we must invest in our education workforce and ensure that it has the skills, training and resources to provide effective, evidence-based interventions in the school setting, which will reduce the need for external support, where possible, and ensure that needs are met at the earliest stage. <BR /> <BR />We cannot ignore the reality that some trust has been lost. Parents feel unheard, young people feel overlooked and teachers feel unsupported.”
“The commitment to streamline the statutory assessment and review process is also welcome. We cannot continue with a system where families wait in limbo and face delays in and uncertainty about school placements. It is vital that the statutory time frames be met and that schools and families have clarity at the earliest stage possible. I also welcome the phased approach to removing the supernumerary status for children with statements of SEN. That, of course, must be done carefully and in a way that enhances the support available to young people. <BR /> <BR />We also need to empower our schools.”
“The Department of Education, the Department for the Economy, the Department of Health and others will work together to ensure that young people with SEN have clear routes into training, education and, of course, employment. We must ensure that cross-departmental collaboration is not just a phrase but a real working partnership that guarantees access to services, workforce planning and a school estate that meets the actual needs of our young people.”
“If we are serious about delivering real change, we must ensure that the collection, sharing and analysis of data sit at the heart of reform. This is not just about a number. It is about ensuring that every child receives the right support at the right time. It is about making sure that we plan for the future, project needs accurately and establish a clear, structured pathway for young people with SEN beyond the ages of 16 and 18. No young person should be left behind, yet, for many families, the transition from school is a time of deep uncertainty. Where do they go? What support will they receive? What opportunities are available? That is why I welcome the commitment to improve post-school protections and pathways.”
“Today, we are discussing something that truly matters: what this means for people on the ground. For too long, families, young people and educators have been navigating a system that does not always work for them. A Programme for Government is not just about the policies; it is about action and making real change that improves lives. When it comes to special educational needs, those changes are long overdue. That is why I welcome the focus on SEN in the Programme for Government. It recognises that our system must do better, not just in words but in real, tangible improvements for children and young people, their parents, their carers and teachers. <BR /> <BR />One of the most critical commitments in the programme is the utilisation of data. Too often, we have failed to identify needs early and respond efficiently.”
“I thank the junior Minister for her answer. Minister, will you provide an update on the programme's next steps?”
“The Bill ensures that our deaf community can access public services, information and opportunities on an equal footing with everyone else. It empowers the community, strengthens inclusivity and affirms the right to linguistic and cultural identity. It is cross-cutting, and its success will, of course, depend on cooperation and support across all Departments and public bodies. That will take time, investment and commitment, but it is a necessity and a long-overdue step towards a more equal and inclusive Northern Ireland.”
“The principle is clear: access to services begins with information. I am so pleased that the Minister has treated that as a priority and delivered it. I am hopeful and excited about the prospect of positive and significant change.”
“It ensures greater accessibility to public services and information by strengthening the infrastructure of interpreters and translators, and it commits to continuing engagement with the deaf community through the sign language partnership group, ensuring that their voices remain central to the legislation as it takes effect. It is essential that future investment is provided to increase availability of qualified interpreters and translators to provide greater accessibility to public services and information, ensuring that the deaf community is not excluded from anything; rather, that sign language becomes the norm.”
“I am so pleased to see that the Department has worked hand in hand with our deaf community to co-design the policy, ensuring that the Bill reflects their needs, their lived experience and, of course, their rights. The Bill has been a long time in the making. Work began as far back as 2004. Finally, on 23 January 2025, Minister Lyons formally secured Executive approval for the introduction of the Bill. At its core, the Bill will officially recognise and promote BSL and ISL as languages of Northern Ireland, ensuring that they are afforded the respect and status that they truly deserve.”
“After the conversation earlier, I feel so privileged to contribute to this debate. Today, we mark a significant moment for the deaf community here in Northern Ireland with the Second Stage of the Sign Language Bill. It is not just a Bill but the result of years of tireless campaigning, advocacy and collaboration between government and our deaf community. It is a statement that sign language is valued, recognised and protected as a language of Northern Ireland. For decades, the deaf community have fought for official recognition of their language. Today, we take a significant step towards ensuring that there is equal access to information and services for sign language users in Northern Ireland. <BR /> <BR />The principle that guides the Bill has been clear from the outset: nothing about us without us.”
“I look forward to hosting the group in Parliament Buildings tomorrow with our party leader. I pay particular tribute to my party colleagues for their ongoing commitment to our armed forces and the veteran community. I reiterate my party's support for those who have and continue to put on the uniform and put themselves in harm's way to protect and preserve our freedoms.”
“<BR /> <BR />Last night, the councillors of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council once again confirmed their commitment to our veteran community by voting to renew the council's commitment to the armed forces covenant. Mid and East Antrim Borough Council signed up to the armed forces covenant in 2016, and it has undertaken to support veterans with signposting, advice and veterans' roadshows, as well as the appointment of a veterans' champion. The council also organises and facilitates a range of events to commemorate key anniversaries, including services for Remembrance Sunday in November each year. <BR /> <BR />The formation of the Mid and East Antrim veteran support programme has been a key driver in supporting our armed forces community in the borough. It offers bus trips, walking tours, talks and health awareness events.”
“Fantastic work is being carried out by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council to support our veteran community. My constituency of East Antrim, and particularly Carrickfergus, has a long and proud military history, which brings great pride to the local community and to me as a representative. Our veterans have made immense sacrifices to protect our freedoms and way of life. It is our duty to ensure that they receive the support and recognition that they deserve. Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council have been exemplary, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to our veterans.”
“I do not think that anybody is placing the blame solely on the Civil Service. However, it has been acknowledged that the cost is £2·45 billion. That is not small change. It was recognised in the report that your Department has established a commercial delivery group. Are you aware of that? What has been done?”
“Once again, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Carrickfergus Academy. The achievement is a testament to the school's dedication to excellence in education. I look forward to seeing the continued success of the staff and students as they build on their fantastic accomplishment.”
“The academy's dedication to embedding international learning into the curriculum is commendable. A special thanks must go to Miss Fotheringham and her team, who have worked hard and whose passion played a vital role in securing the award. Their efforts to enrich the educational experience of our students and young people have helped to shape globally aware, forward-thinking people.”