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 congratulate Carrickfergus Academy on its being awarded the British Council's International School Award. That prestigious recognition highlights the school's outstanding commitment to global connections and to promoting international education. Carrickfergus Academy continues to make a significant and positive impact on our local community, not only by providing high-quality education but by ensuring that young people develop cultural awareness and the skills that are needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.”
“I thank the Minister for her answer. I recognise the rate, but how is your Department supporting people with disabilities or special educational needs to ensure that they also have the opportunity to gain education and support at that level?”
“I commend the community organisers for their role in making the engagement possible, bringing together the PUL community from across Northern Ireland and creating a space for constructive and positive dialogue. <BR /> <BR />The Chief Constable made it clear that the police are there to police and that everyone will be policed equally. That is all we have ever asked for, and it is what that community will continue to demand. May it only be the start of more positive engagement with the PSNI in Northern Ireland.”
“Yesterday evening, along with party colleagues and members of the greater Shankill policing subgroup, I attended a fantastic Protestant/unionist/loyalist (PUL) reference, engagement and listening (REal) event at the Spectrum Centre on the Shankill Road, where we met the Chief Constable, the Deputy Chief Constable and staff from the PSNI. There was an important and open discussion, with clear acknowledgment of the concerns around two-tier policing. Crucially, the Chief Constable committed that, under his leadership, all voices will be heard equally and everyone will be treated the same under the law. <BR /> <BR />The event also provided an opportunity to discuss the barriers to recruitment and what more can be done to ensure that those in working-class areas can equally access career opportunities in the PSNI.”
“I thank the Minister for her answer. Does the Minister believe that there is sufficient health and well-being support for officers who have suffered attacks in prison?”
“No women or girls — at all — should ever feel any fear here in Northern Ireland, but I want to touch on those with additional needs or disabilities. How are the Executive supporting them to ensure that they, too, are protected, heard and listened to in the document?”
“I thank the Minister for his statement. Good progress has been made. Minister, how can you keep up the momentum to ensure that our controlled sector receives the support and equality that it deserves?”
“Thank you, Minister. I very much welcome the announcement, particularly because we are now putting victims first for the first time. That is so fundamental to this change. You said that the date for the removal of intimidation points is by the end of the financial year, but, Minister, can you give a definite date for when intimidation points will be removed?”
“I thank the deputy First Minister for the statement. Will she provide an update on what arrangements are being made for the next British-Irish Council meeting?”
“It is my hope that the publication of the report can allow those officers to close the door and put those events behind them.”
“<BR /> <BR />The Office of the Police Ombudsman has had the time to review and examine the events of that day in great detail — a luxury that was not afforded to the officers who responded on the day, who had the added pressure of COVID restrictions and guidelines within which to operate. The DUP continues to stand with the rank-and-file officers of the PSNI who, in this instance, were thrown under the bus. The Public Prosecution Service and the PSNI have, rightly, concluded that no action should be taken against the officers involved.”
“I rise to address the recent findings of the Police Ombudsman in relation to the commemoration at Sean Graham bookmakers on the Ormeau Road in 2021. All of us are acutely aware of our unique and troubled past. It makes the already difficult job of a PSNI officer even more challenging. The political pressure that was put on the PSNI by senior members of Sinn Féin in the aftermath of the Ormeau Road incident was, and remains, unacceptable. The Scoffield judgement clearly demonstrated that that political pressure influenced decision-making at the most senior ranks of the PSNI and resulted in the officers involved being treated in a way that the Chief Constable and his senior officers must ensure is never repeated.”
“While the process requires investment, infrastructure and, of course, leadership, the potential benefits are undeniable for families, the councils and our environment. This is the perfect time to seize the opportunity and turn nappies from a burden into a recycling solution.”
“The process itself is straightforward: nappies are collected from households or central collection points, transported to recycling facilities, sorted and cleaned so that waste and bacteria are removed, and the material is separated. New products can then be repurposed into construction material, park benches or even plant pots. Given that the direction of travel is a reduction in residual and black-bag waste capacity per household, a nappy collection scheme would offset potential pressures facing families and households with one or more children, those with medical needs or those who use hygiene products.”
“Furthermore, the AERA Minister has a chance to make a major leap by diverting tens of thousands of tons of recyclable waste from landfill at a time when Northern Ireland is striving to meet its 70% recycling target. As we aim for a circular economy, it is exactly the kind of creative solution that we need. <BR /> <BR />The DUP has consistently advocated for nappy recycling schemes across council areas in Northern Ireland. We are pleased to see that councils, including Ards and North Down Borough Council, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, have passed motions in support of that initiative.”
“A nappy collection scheme would allow us to collect and recycle those products and turn waste into opportunity. For example, the fibres from recycled nappies could be used to produce longer-lasting, more cost-effective road surfaces. It even presents the Minister for Infrastructure with an innovative way to address the chronic underinvestment in our roads. Academic research in Japan revealed that concrete that has had up to 10% of its fine aggregates replaced by shredded used nappies can achieve a compressive strength that is appropriate for a three-storey house. Scientists prepared concrete and mortar samples by combining washed, dried and shredded disposable nappy waste with cement, sand, gravel and water, and they then cured that as a sample for 28 days. It is really remarkable what can be done.”
“I will speak not only as a Member but as, I feel, a seasoned, professional nappy-changer. My colleague Michelle McIlveen has passionately raised the issue of nappy and hygiene product recycling and reuse several times in the Chamber. Her efforts have shone a light on an incredible opportunity for us to tackle one of the most persistent waste challenges: disposable nappies and hygiene products. <BR /> <BR />Since 2009, Wales has run a very successful nappy collection and recycling scheme. Similar initiatives exist in countries such as Japan, Canada and the Netherlands. The question is this: why not here? The cloth nappy schemes introduced by many councils, including my former council, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, have been very successful and oversubscribed, but disposable nappies remain the go-to choice for many parents.”
“I thank the Minister for that fantastic answer. Can you provide any assurance about the continuation of the childcare subsidy scheme? I have received a number of emails from parents who have benefited from the scheme and welcome it but want to know whether it will continue into the next financial year.”
“<BR /> <BR />In our all-party group discussions, we have identified many practical solutions to enhance those critical services. One proposal is the establishment of a register of trained staff who specialise in autism to ensure that those with the skills and dedication offer much-needed support to autistic individuals where and when required. Many members of our passionate workforce already have that training and are eager to help. By harnessing their expertise, we can greatly improve the experience of autistic individuals and their families in our service. <BR /> <BR />This obviously holds a personal place in my heart. As a parent, I am privileged to witness both the beauty and the challenges that autism brings to our lives every day. Autistic individuals are remarkable.”
“<BR /> <BR />That story powerfully illustrates the urgent need for mental health professionals who are not only trained but confident and compassionate in recognising and supporting our autistic individuals. It shines a light on the gaps in our system. Recently, during a Public Accounts Committee inquiry, we discussed how A&E services often become a default crisis point for mental health emergencies. For autistic individuals, the sensory overload of an A&E environment can be overwhelming and distressing. Staff members, sadly, often lack the necessary training, leaving patients and staff in difficult positions. I have heard too many accounts of autistic individuals being left in corridors or unsuitable wards that lack private spaces to endure indignities that should never occur.”
“The toll that that takes on their mental health is heartbreaking. One particular story has touched my heart. It is of a young man whose autism remained unacknowledged throughout his childhood. Without support in school, higher education or early in his career, he faced profound mental health challenges. The isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic pushed him to the edge — to a suicide attempt. It was not until a caring counsellor, who was outside the formal system, recognised the signs of autism that he finally found his way to a diagnosis. For him, it was not just a label; it provided clarity, a sense of self-understanding and a turning point in his life.”
“The autism strategy envisaged a society focused on inclusion and collaboration, a society that not only listens to but truly respects and supports autistic individuals and their families. However, for that vision to become a reality, we must see urgent, actionable change. The strategy emphasised the critical need for constant diagnostic pathways, improved collaboration across Departments and genuine co-production with those who have lived experience. Those measures are not just desirable but absolutely essential for fostering understanding and compassion. <BR /> <BR />At the heart of the issue are the voices of those with lived experience. Every day, we hear poignant stories from families and individuals who struggle to access the appropriate support at the right time and in the right place.”
“Waiting lists for autism assessments stretch endlessly, with some adults waiting over 300 weeks for a diagnosis. Those prolonged delays hinder access to essential support, leaving individuals and families to face their struggles without the help that they so desperately need. Mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression and emotional dysregulation, often go unrecognised or are just put down to autism. Our systems are not prepared to provide the timely, specialised interventions that could make all the difference. <BR /> <BR />Since the introduction of the Autism (Amendment) Act 2022 — the Bill was sponsored by my Assembly colleague Pam Cameron — we, of course, have seen some positive steps in the right direction with the appointment of the independent autism reviewer, but we are all well aware that there is so much more to do.”
“I welcome the motion and give it my full, heartfelt support. It addresses a deeply significant issue: the urgent need for a specialist autism mental health service in Northern Ireland. <BR /> <BR />Autism affects more than 35,000 individuals in our community, including 15,000 school-age children. Many more adults do not have a formal diagnosis. Those figures, which were revealed in the 2021 census, reflect one of the highest rates of autism in the UK. Behind those numbers are real lives, stories of incredible resilience, families striving to navigate complex systems and, too often, tales of needs that go unmet. <BR /> <BR />The situation is alarming. Our mental health services are simply not equipped to address the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals.”
“I thank the First Minister for her answer. How has the engagement between councils and TEO on the change fund been? Have those relationships been positive? Do you foresee difficulties in the roll-out of the scheme?”
“Hear, hear. We have been waiting for that for quite some time, so it is certainly welcome news. You will know that in our constituency of East Antrim, the Cithrah Foundation provides fantastic support for women who are fleeing domestic abuse but we have no safe spaces for males who are fleeing domestic abuse. What has your Department done, or what can it do, to meet that need?”
“I thank the Minister for his statement and the continued delivery for our SEN children. I see the importance of the significant investment that has been delivered by his Department every single day when I leave my son to school. There is an urgent need to streamline the assessment process, which, for many parents, is complex, confusing and very stressful. It ends up being a fight for so many. Can the Minister provide further details of how the process will be improved, and when?”
“Their determination is a testament to the power of our community and the importance of standing together in difficult times.”
“<BR /> <BR />I commend the police for their continued efforts to locate Gary and for reissuing their appeal to the public for any information that might help. The case, however, serves as a stark reminder of the heartache and uncertainty faced by a family when a loved one goes missing. I take the opportunity to urge anyone who may have seen Gary or who has any information about his whereabouts, no matter how small it may seem, to come forward and contact the police on 101. Every piece of information could be crucial in the search to bring Gary home. <BR /> <BR />I acknowledge the support and efforts of Gary's family and friends, who have worked tirelessly to organise searches and raise awareness about his disappearance.”
“I express deep concern about and am raising awareness of the ongoing search for Larne man Gary Patterson, a 45-year-old who has been missing for almost three months. The last confirmed sighting of Gary was on Saturday 12 October 2024, when he withdrew £100 from a bank machine close to his home in Larne. Since then, there have been no further sightings and no developments in the case. <BR /> <BR />Gary is described as having dark hair. When last seen, he was wearing a distinctive yellow and black checked-pattern coat, dark blue jeans, hiking or walking boots and a black beanie hat. He has links to the Larne and Belfast areas, and his disappearance has caused significant distress to his family, his friends and the wider community.”
“I thank the Minister and appreciate his response. Flood forecasting and an early warning alert would, obviously, allow for more efficient, targeted, emergency responses and flood warnings directly to residents. Will he provide an update as to where that sits with his Department?”
“One of the PAC reports recommended that planning authorities regularly review their past decisions to understand the real-world outcomes and impact on communities and the quality of the completed developments. Minister, what review has taken place, and if it has, what actions will be taken from it?”
“<BR /> <BR />I urge the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to update the House on progress on the introduction of the proposed dilapidation Bill, work alongside local authorities to fully embrace the powers that that dilapidation Bill could provide, and prioritise properties and areas such as those I mentioned. The residents of East Antrim deserve a clear plan and a clear timeline for action, whether through enforcement mechanisms, cost recovery mechanisms, broader powers and, of course, clarity. Action must be taken before it is too late, or someone will be seriously injured.”
“The council has been left without any real power to take action. <BR /> <BR />The Northern Ireland Assembly's proposed dilapidation Bill will, hopefully, provide a crucial framework to tackle such properties by empowering local councils to take decisive action on abandoned and unsafe buildings. That proposed legislation could offer an effective tool to compel owners to repair or redevelop those sites. West Street in Carrickfergus and the likes of Dunluce Street in Larne are, of course, prime examples of areas where that legislation could be used to great effect. In its current state, that site is a stark reminder of neglect and how that adversely affects surrounding businesses, residents and, of course, Carrickfergus's image as a key tourist destination.”
“I rise to address the issue of derelict buildings in East Antrim, which has been a long-standing source of frustration and concern for the local community, local council and, of course, local traders. A number of properties are in a state of serious dilapidation, which not only undermines the aesthetics and safety of those areas but hinders efforts to revitalise the heart of our town centres. <BR /> <BR />After storm Darragh at the weekend, a building in West Street, Carrickfergus, was declared unsafe by the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. That area has been closed to traffic and pedestrians, which will result in further reduced footfall during the important Christmas period. Of course, the weather cannot be blamed; that building has been left to go to ruins with no regard for the domino effect that that has on the area.”
“I thank the Minister and welcome what he has said. He will know about the approaching cliff edge in the caring sector and how difficult it is for people who are trying to care while working or trying to gain employment. Minister, will you detail what the Department will do to ensure that that message is communicated to every carer or potential carer to ensure that they receive the support to which they are entitled?”
“I thank the Minister for his answer. I am sure that he will agree that community transport is absolutely critical, particularly in our rural communities. <BR /> <BR />I know that a cross-departmental working group meeting took place on 9 September. Minister, will you provide more detail on the agreed outcomes and way forward that the working group will work collaboratively on to deliver for all in Northern Ireland?”
“Has the Minister had any contact with the ombudsman about the release of the Kingsmills report?”
“I thank the Minister for his statement. This is significant news that will be very much welcomed by our constituents in East Antrim. We have touched on the PAC's report 'Child Poverty in Northern Ireland', which was launched this month and called for a new anti-poverty strategy. I very much welcome the Minister's commitment to that. Will the Minister detail what actions his Department is taking to address the root causes of poverty in society and how we can support the most vulnerable in our society?”
“That includes better education on the early signs and symptoms of diabetes so that others do not face the same frightening experience. It also means ensuring access to the latest technology and resources, tackling the stigma and supporting organisations such as Diabetes NI that do incredible work for our communities.”
“Oversimplifying what it means to live with diabetes and why it develops can contribute to the harmful stigma. Research found that over 50% of people living with diabetes miss healthcare appointments and that 80% have experienced negative attitudes because of their diabetes. <BR /> <BR />While it is manageable, it brings a constant pressure. It is a roller coaster of highs and lows as we strive to maintain blood sugar levels within a safe range. Modern technology, such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors, offers remarkable support, but the daily effort is unrelenting, and the fear of complication never fully subsides. <BR /> <BR />Here in Northern Ireland, we must do more to improve the lives of those living with the condition.”
“Thanks to the excellent care of the medical team, however, we left the hospital within just 10 days, equipped with the knowledge and confidence to manage that complex condition. <BR /> <BR />Part of this year's campaign aims to address the stigma around diabetes, highlighting the voices of the diabetes community in order to open conversations about the impact and stigma and to start to change the mindset. Nobody sees it, but it is about being up in the middle of the night with jelly babies to treat a hypo; the stress of doing your weekly food shop; the raised eyebrows when your diabetes technology beeps in the office; and the questions, "Should you be eating that?" and, "Did you eat too many sweeties?". <BR /> <BR />Diabetes is a complex condition.”
“I rise to mark Diabetes Awareness Day, which took place last Thursday, and to reflect on the ongoing challenges faced by individuals and families impacted on by diabetes. This is particularly personal for me as my wee son Lyle was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes this time last year, at only three years old. Lyle's journey into this new world began with signs that we did not recognise as diabetes. We had no family history and no knowledge, and he was only three. <BR /> <BR />It is critical to look out for extreme thirst, frequent pain, fatigue and weight loss: the four main signs of diabetes. When we got to the Royal, he was in diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition.”
“<BR /> <BR />When speaking to the people involved, I was taken aback not only by what they provide but by what they have achieved in the area. They are reducing social isolation and building friendships, and their service is much more than just a transport service. The service's funding continues to be cut, yet demand continues to increase, and I hope that we can all come together to support the service.”
“<BR /> <BR />The South Antrim Community Network is committed to serving elderly people, those with disabilities and those based in rural areas who, without regular public transport, cannot access vital services or get to vital appointments. Its services are provided mostly by volunteers, and it is critical that it increase its number of volunteers so that people are able to provide those services. Tomorrow, the organisation will be in Whitehead library from 10.30 am until noon. I will be there, and I hope that many more people will be able to attend. Transport is critical. The organisation is finding demand to be increasing, but it is struggling to get volunteers, so if anybody who is watching now is free tomorrow, I hope that they will be able to come to Whitehead to provide some support to that vital charity.”
“I will talk about the critical importance of community transport. Last week, in my constituency, I met South Antrim Community Transport, and it was quite clear that it is more than just a transport service. It provides a lifeline to people in rural areas. Although it is based in South Antrim, it covers my constituency of East Antrim: the likes of Ballycarry, Islandmagee, Whitehead, Carnlough and many more places. South Antrim Community Transport provides affordable but accessible transport for people from the age of 16 upwards, thus ensuring that all members of our community can maintain their independence, access healthcare and engage in social activities. It is more than just a door-to-door service, as it improves collaboration, builds relationships and reduces social isolation.”
“Carrick Rangers was his passion and his love. It is a club to which he devoted so much time and energy. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded of the values that he embodied: dedication, compassion and an unshakeable commitment to public service. He was a friend. He was a mentor who quickly became family. He will be remembered by us all.”
“Today marks a year since the passing of David Hilditch MLA. He was a stalwart of the House. He was our colleague, but, most importantly, he was our friend. A year ago, the loss was raw and difficult, but the year since David's passing has given us time to process and understand the gravity of what has been lost. The void left remains huge. <BR /> <BR />There is not a day that goes by when he is not remembered by us all, each in our own way. He was generous, kind and loyal. He will be remembered fondly for his unwavering commitment to his constituents and for his deep love for Carrickfergus. His quiet strength and presence made a difference to countless lives. David dedicated his life to serving, and I do not say that lightly. <BR /> <BR />I thank Carrick Rangers Football Club for dedicating Sunday's match to David's memory.”
“As a successful scheme that focused on —. Is that my time up?”
“<BR /> <BR />Finally, we should look at the townscape heritage initiative in my constituency as a model for repurposing the high street.”