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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“By ensuring accessibility, we can maintain footfall in our town centres and support our local businesses. During my Adjournment debate a few months ago, I welcomed the Back in Business grant, but, to date, only four businesses in the Mid and East Antrim area are actually in receipt of this funding. <BR /> <BR />Northern Ireland has a high rate of people with disabilities, and we must ensure that our town centres and streets are more accessible and, of course, accommodating. I agree with Mr Carroll. The Minister for Infrastructure must work with local councils and other partners to ensure that footpaths are fit for purpose and do not pose risks and that the whole town centre is, of course, welcoming and accessible. Primarily, people with disabilities must be at the heart of future planning.”
“<BR /> <BR />Our town centres and high streets need a planning system that is fit for purpose so that businesses can thrive and diversify without lengthy delays. In Carrickfergus, we operate in a conservation area, which brings additional restrictions and costs, but there is very little support for businesses to navigate that additional burden. <BR /> <BR />We have also the transition to online banking, which also presents additional challenges. With more banks closing their physical branches, residents, particularly those who are less digitally confident, face difficulties in accessing those essential services, which increases the digital divide and inequality. Town centres have traditionally been hubs where people conduct their daily banking, so we must consider alternatives such as community banking hubs or financial support.”
“<BR /> <BR />Moreover, we have a massive opportunity with city deals to transform town centres. The funding and projects in those frameworks should prioritise initiatives that rejuvenate our high streets and businesses, create jobs, improve the infrastructure and effect digital transformation. That is an opportunity that we must grasp. Recent NI Audit Office reports highlighted significant concerns around skills gaps and the planning system in Northern Ireland. Both are absolutely critical to our town centres. We must address the skills gap by investing in training programmes tailored to the needs of our high street businesses, particularly in areas such as retail, hospitality and digital skills, ensuring that our workforce is equipped with the right skills to be more dynamic and more responsive to changes in consumer trends.”
“Other businesses in the same area have had to close while the work is ongoing. That example underscores the need for improved coordination and communication between councils, utility companies and businesses to minimise disruption. Small businesses are the backbone of our local economies, and we must ensure that they have the stability and support that they need to grow. <BR /> <BR />One of the most common concerns that I hear about is the high VAT rate, which has created an uneven playing field. A VAT reduction could be a lifeline, helping businesses to stay competitive and encouraging more footfall in town centres. With the cost-of-living crisis impacting on consumer spending, reducing VAT would not only benefit businesses but make shopping and dining on our high streets much more affordable for residents.”
“That would hold property owners accountable for maintaining their premises, ensuring that our town centres remain attractive and welcoming, and it would provide real powers for our council to act. Investing in the upkeep of high streets will create an environment where businesses can thrive and where residents feel a sense of pride in and connection to their local community. <BR /> <BR />In addition to those physical improvements, we must support businesses that are bringing life into areas. In my area, new businesses, such as Luna, that are trying to establish themselves have faced unexpected challenges. For example, Luna struggled when unforeseen work on the water infrastructure disrupted operations and added financial strain at a crucial time for that brand-new business.”
“I am pleased to speak in support of the motion and the amendments, as my colleague so eloquently did in his speech. <BR /> <BR />We want to highlight how critical our high streets and town centres are to the economy and to the vibrancy and social cohesion of our community. A comprehensive strategy is, of course, essential, and I would like to use my experience as an East Antrim representative to address several key issues that must be considered as part of that strategy. <BR /> <BR />Dilapidation continues to be a pressing concern. A recent consultation in my constituency highlighted dereliction as the top concern of local residents. Abandoned and deteriorating buildings not only deter footfall but project a sense of neglect and discourage investment. To address that, we must see movement on the dilapidation Bill.”
“Equally inspiring is Glenn's commitment to his family and his roots in Carrickfergus. His decision to retire reflects the importance that he places on his family, as he chooses to focus on his next chapter alongside his loved ones. His loyalty to his home town along with his humility and generosity have made him a role model for many. His influence will, undoubtedly, continue to inspire future generations of Northern Irish racers. <BR /> <BR />On behalf of everyone in Carrickfergus and, indeed, Northern Ireland, I extend heartfelt thanks to Glenn for all that he has achieved and for the pride that he has brought to our community. We wish him and his family every happiness and success for his future endeavours.”
“I acknowledge the incredible achievements and dedication of Glenn Irwin as he announces his retirement from a remarkable career in motorcycle racing. Glenn's impact on the sport and on our community has been truly inspiring. His unwavering commitment to his craft, dedication in pursuit of the superbike championship and pride in representing Northern Ireland on the world stage have made him an iconic figure in the sport and in our local community. <BR /> <BR />Throughout his career, Glenn has been a formidable presence on the track, achieving victories and pushing boundaries with his skill, courage and relentless drive. His recent runner-up finish in the British Superbike Championship serves as testament to his talent and perseverance. He has always competed with the heart and resolve that embodies the best of Northern Ireland.”
“Revenge porn is undeniably a form of sexual abuse that causes significant psychological harm. Will the Minister give her assessment of the current effectiveness of the revenge porn legislation?”
“Only yesterday, I got an email from the Department in relation to the lack of budget for dropped kerbs. How is the Department prioritising safe crossing points for people with disabilities or those who are using prams, and how will we see that reflected in investment in East Antrim?”
“I thank the Minister for his statement. The Minister mentioned the need to value our workforce and the need to attract and, of course, retain teachers. Will the Minister seek to maintain parity with teachers' pay and conditions in the rest of the UK?”
“As we prepare to mark remembrance events in the coming weeks, let us remember those who have served and sacrificed and commit ourselves to ensuring that the veterans in our midst have a clear voice and the respect that they deserve. We owe them no less.”
“His departure has, understandably, left many veterans feeling that they are not treated equally to their counterparts across the rest of the United Kingdom. That is, of course, unacceptable, and it is our duty to ensure that veterans in Northern Ireland receive the same support and recognition. <BR /> <BR />I am pleased that the Minister has now committed to a swift recruitment process for a new Veterans Commissioner, with advertisements already under way. That is encouraging, but what is most important is that the new commissioner is given the independence and the resources to perform the role effectively, free from unnecessary constraints. Veterans here need an advocate who will speak for them, who understands the unique challenges that they face and who will work to ensure that they receive the support that they have earned.”
“It was an incredibly moving experience to stand alongside those who continue to honour the memory of our fallen and to support the veterans who still live among us. The work of the Royal British Legion is critical in providing much-needed assistance to veterans and their families, and the poppy appeal plays a key role in raising awareness and funds to deliver those vital services. <BR /> <BR />As we approach remembrance events in the coming weeks, the reminder of the sacrifices that were made is even more poignant. We must also take a moment to acknowledge the work of the previous Veterans Commissioner, Danny Kinahan. He served the veterans with immense dedication and advocated for their rights with integrity.”
“I welcome the positive news regarding the recruitment of a new Veterans Commissioner for Northern Ireland. That development, which follows commitments secured during a debate at Westminster, is an essential step forward for veterans in Northern Ireland. The creation of the Veterans Commissioner for Northern Ireland flowed from the 'New Decade, New Approach' agreement. Our veterans, who have given so much in service, deserve to have their voices heard and their needs represented every day. The appointment of a dedicated commissioner ensures that veterans in Northern Ireland are not left behind and that their concerns are brought directly to the forefront of government policy. <BR /> <BR />Earlier today, I had the privilege of spending the morning with Carrickfergus Royal British Legion, where we launched its poppy appeal.”
“Let us continue to promote and support such initiatives, which are essential for the well-being of all in our community.”
“Extern's work supports those individuals by recognising and addressing the underlying traumas that lead to substance abuse. The initiative, which was launched in 2020, has supported over 2,500 individuals and families in the Larne and Carrickfergus area, providing therapeutic and practical help in collaboration with local groups such as Wonder ARTS and Northern Ireland Alternatives. That has been crucial to delivering that care. Participants have reported significant improvements in mental health and well-being, reduced substance use and enhanced emotional resilience. I commend the project team and the community for coming together to address the pressing challenges. The event reminds us that hope, connection and support are all critical in navigating our mental health struggles. I encourage anyone who needs help to reach out.”
“<BR /> <BR />The work of Extern, a key partner in the event, is invaluable in addressing the complex mental health challenges faced by individuals and families in our community. Extern counsellors support people who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and grief. The impact of their work, particularly their holistic, person-centred approach, is life-changing. Many of its clients speak of new-found confidence and improved mental health achieved through counselling and peer-led support groups, such as Larne Momentum, EMBRACE, Man On and Carrickfergus Hub Improving Lives Locally (CHILL). <BR /> <BR />While it is encouraging to see men of all ages breaking down stigmas around mental health, it is alarming to see the increasing numbers of young people who are caught in the cycle of addiction.”
“I highlight a remarkable initiative that took place in East Antrim last Thursday, which was World Mental Health Day. Two of our most historic landmarks, Chaine Memorial Tower in Larne and Carrickfergus Castle, were illuminated as part of a campaign called, "Passing Waves: Hope Through Light". That unique light and sound display, created by artist and musician Ryan Vail, took place to promote mental health awareness. The event, which was organised by Extern, in partnership with Northern Ireland Alternatives and Wonder ARTS and with support from the Executive Office, aimed to shine a light on the importance of mental health and send the message that hope is in reach, even in the of darkest times.”
“I thank the Member for giving way. He mentioned the importance of fundraising. I want to mention Madison Wright, the NI youth ambassador for the hospice, and acknowledge the essential work that she has done. I think that she has raised over £50,000 — potentially, a lot more — and continues to raise awareness of the need for the hospice and, of course, for vital funds.”
“I thank the Minister for his answer. As the Minister will know, the number of children with special educational needs (SEN) has risen sharply in recent years, exceeding the capacity of the health and social care workforce. Minister, what action will your Department take to ensure that it is taking into account all the relevant data from Departments so that it can make sure that every child with special educational needs is receiving the care that they need from the most appropriate person and at the most appropriate time?”
“I urge everyone to keep Lesley and her family in their thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. A GoFundMe page has been set up online. If they can, I urge Members to share it and, of course, donate. The family would be deeply grateful for any assistance as they do everything in their power to save their mum. She is far too young to go, and they need her with them.”
“In addition to the emotional toll, the financial burden on the family is immense. Lesley, unfortunately, had no private health insurance, and the cost of her treatment is rapidly mounting, exceeding £15,000 in the first 24 hours alone. The family face what could be hundreds of thousands of pounds in medical bills, if not up to £1 million for a transplant. If Lesley recovers, her family will also need to fly her home to the UK. <BR /> <BR />It is with a heavy heart, yet strong hope, that the family have turned to the community for support. They are determined to give Lesley every chance to survive this horrible ordeal. Any contribution will not only ease the financial burden and strain but allow her loved ones to focus on what truly matters, which is being there for their mum.”
“She remains in a critical condition on a ventilator, receiving ongoing dialysis and fighting liver and kidney failure.”
“I rise to speak on behalf of a family facing an incredibly challenging and heartbreaking situation. <BR /> <BR />On 10 September, Lesley Poots, a beloved mother and grandmother from Northern Ireland, flew from Dublin to Dubai to support her daughter, who was going through a difficult pregnancy. Sadly, just a few days into her stay, the whole family, including Lesley, contracted a severe sickness bug. After she initially showed symptoms on 15 September, Lesley's condition deteriorated rapidly, and she was rushed to hospital on 20 September, where she was diagnosed with sepsis, blood poisoning and multiple organ failure. She was minutes away from losing her life. Thanks to the swift actions of paramedics and the outstanding care from the A&E team in the Mediclinic Parkview Hospital in Dubai, Lesley was stabilised and admitted to the ICU.”
“I thank the Minister for his answer. SKILL UP is a fantastic programme that is delivered throughout Northern Ireland. How is his Department assessing it to ensure that a broad balance of people from different economic and social backgrounds is being represented and is benefiting from the programme?”
“I thank the Minister for his answer. Has he made any assessment of the implications of the additional burden for the affected schools in Northern Ireland?”
“I welcome the strategy. I want to touch on grassroots organisations in local communities. How will they be involved in delivering protection and services on the ground? Will you touch on the likes of alcohol abuse and mental health services and how those can be supported moving forward?”
“I thank the Minister for his answers so far. We all know that this is an absolutely shocking decision. My granda wanted me to pass that on. The Minister referenced the significantly low take-up of pension credit and ways to check entitlement to it, but we all are aware of the lack of knowledge on, and the stigma associated with, claiming benefits. Minister, what can your Department do to address that, and how can you work with the likes of local government to coordinate services to help support people who are in that position?”
“The Chief Constable should be commended for his efforts in his leadership to secure the right resources for effective policing. His advocacy is not only appropriate but necessary, and it is essential that we stand together in support of the PSNI, ensuring that it has the financial firepower that it needs. <BR /> <BR />The chronic underfunding of policing and public services in Northern Ireland must be addressed. The DUP will continue to press the Government to tackle those challenges, and we urge others to support that crucial message.”
“<BR /> <BR />Our police officers who have been injured in the line of duty and forced into ill-health retirement also deserve our full support. It is unacceptable that they face difficulties in receiving their injury on duty award and the retirement benefits that they deserve. Those brave individuals have sacrificed for our safety, and we must ensure that they are treated with respect and care. <BR /> <BR />I welcome, of course, the Chief Constable's recent announcement that a business case will be developed to recover policing in Northern Ireland. That is an important step forward, but more must be done. We must ensure that the PSNI is fully funded to tackle everyday crime, antisocial behaviour, the ongoing threats, complex preventative work and, of course, engagement.”
“Thank you. <BR /> <BR />Of course, I take that point. The DUP has made it very clear that we are underfunded and need resources. That is the situation, point-blank. We need that. We need continual investment in our Police Service. There is no doubt that every member of my party wants to see that and wants to us funded correctly, purely for the safety of our communities in Northern Ireland. <BR /> <BR />For years, the PSNI has warned of the impact of that chronic underfunding, but, unfortunately, those warnings have often been ignored. That has resulted in less visible, less responsive policing in Northern Ireland. That situation is neither justifiable nor sustainable, and we need bold action from our leaders and the Department to address all the challenges.”
“It was very troubling that the Justice Department had supported efforts to undermine the request for more resources. At a time when the PSNI faces unprecedented pressures, unity is crucial. The Minister should reconsider her stance and restore public confidence by supporting the Chief Constable's call for that funding.”
“I declare an interest as a member of the Policing Board. I suppose that the motion is slightly ironic, given that it is Emergency Services Day. On a day when we acknowledge, respect and honour the service of the PSNI, we are here to address a matter of critical importance to the PSNI. It needs the necessary resources and investment to keep our communities safe and, of course, to allow our police to police. <BR /> <BR />Chief Constable John Boutcher has made a strong and, of course, legitimate case for additional funding. That is not about bureaucracy; it is purely about protecting people. Our police officers work tirelessly to safeguard our communities, and they need the tools and support to do that effectively. The DUP stands behind the Chief Constable in his leadership efforts during these very difficult times.”
“I thank the Minister for her answer. She touched on the devastating fire that happened recently in Greenisland. What preventative measures are being implemented to educate young people on the dangers and legal consequences of arson?”
“I extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of our emergency services workers for their unwavering dedication. We stand beside you, we support you and we will continually work to ensure that you receive the resources and recognition that you truly deserve. Today and every day, we honour your service.”
“<BR /> <BR />Emergency Services Day is also a day on which we acknowledge the countless volunteers who wholeheartedly support those efforts. Their readiness to step forward during a crisis is a powerful testament to their resilience and community spirit. We are deeply thankful for the commitment and selflessness that they demonstrate, especially in the most challenging of circumstances. In addition, it is essential to take some time to reflect on the individuals who have tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their legacy continues to inspire us all.”
“On Emergency Services Day, it is important for us to take a moment to express our deep gratitude to the remarkable individuals who serve in our emergency services. Today provides an opportunity to truly recognise and honour the unwavering dedication, incredible bravery and profound sacrifice of those who work tirelessly to protect and serve our communities day in, day out. Our firefighters, police officers, paramedics and rescue workers consistently go above and beyond the call of duty, often facing dangerous and unpredictable situations. From responding to house fires and medical emergencies to addressing public safety threats as the first line of defence, they frequently put their lives at risk to protect ours.”
“I thank the Member for his response. Will he provide more detail on parental leave, especially for those who care for a child with a disability?”
“I thank the Minister for his honest response. I understand that, in my constituency, a number of schools are waiting for the school enhancement programme to be announced or moved forward. Does he have any more information on where that sits and the pressures on the budget for that programme?”
“This is, obviously, a critical challenge for the Minister's Department, and I welcome his response. On stakeholder engagement, will the Minister detail whether he has been working with the voluntary and community sector? As he will know, it is critical to providing support and assistance for parents and children with special educational needs. Are there any methods of best practice that he has integrated into the review?”
“Thank you for your answer. Do you have any idea of when an implementation time frame will be announced?”
“A recent economic study shows that the projected visitor and participant spend provided a direct economic impact of over half a million pounds for just one day. We have much to be positive about. <BR /> <BR />Those green shoots, however, must be recognised and supported to ensure growth, duplication and positivity in order to rejuvenate the town and beyond. I very much recognise that it is a cross-cutting issue that requires a collaborative response, but my aim is to get East Antrim on the agenda, for the struggles to be realised and for those sectors' urgent concerns to be heard and addressed sooner rather than later.”
“Only this weekend, we witnessed the spectacular Royal Landing festival, which drew tens of thousands of people from all over Northern Ireland and beyond to our wee corner of the world to experience culture and history coming alive on the streets of Carrickfergus. That type of cultural pageantry is popular in Northern Ireland. It represents a significant part of the tourism draw, along the lines of Tourism NI's experiential and thematic pillars of "Being Original", "Legends and Stories" and "awakeners". Those themes focus on the cultural history of the nation and its impact and contribution to the world's history, which we must continue to promote. The wider tourism strategy is to develop the Ulster-Scots project as a cultural resource for Northern Ireland.”
“It has created a welcoming hub in the town centre that provides opportunities for learning, community, interaction and engagement, with all profits being directed back into the business or other local initiatives aimed at benefiting the Carrickfergus community.”
“It is the first community-owned greengrocer's and the first community-owned business in Carrickfergus town centre, selling locally grown fruit and veg alongside other produce from further afield, with lots of other locally made goods and treats. It aims to enrich the lives of people in Carrickfergus through high-quality, in-season food and to trade in a way that supports a sustainable environment and economy.”
“On paper, the scheme is absolutely excellent, but, as it covers only businesses whose lease began after 1 April 2024 and as, of course, the premises must have been vacant, realistically, how many businesses will benefit from it? <BR /> <BR />Despite all the struggles and challenges that I have detailed, it would be remiss of me not to praise the incredible businesses, Carrickfergus Enterprise and the many support agencies in East Antrim. They have been and are keeping their businesses going, taking the risk, thinking outside the box and powering on to keep our town alive. Carrick Greengrocers, for example, has taken a different approach.”
“<BR /> <BR />I very much welcome Back in Business, a scheme that offers businesses a 50% rates reduction for up to two years if they move into premises that have been unoccupied for 12 months or more and were previously used for retail purposes. We all want to see our town centres and shopping areas thriving, and Back in Business aims to bring vibrancy, footfall and investment back into our high streets whilst providing businesses with a boost at the start of their business journey, helping to support jobs and bringing long-term vacant units back into use. However, while we must all continue to support new businesses, we must also support the businesses that struggled through the most difficult COVID years.”
“<BR /> <BR />A recent survey carried out as part of the PEACE PLUS programme in mid and east Antrim showed that the number of derelict and dilapidated buildings in the town centre was the number-one issue for people in East Antrim. There is constant frustration in the community and in Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, owing to the limited powers that are afforded to the local authorities to deal with the issue. It not only tarnishes the overall look and aesthetic of the town but significantly reduces the retail space available to rent or buy, leading to an increase in price of the remaining stock. The new dilapidation Bill would be a welcome step in the right direction to address the issue and provide some hope to the town centres and city centres that have fallen victim to such dereliction.”
“Of course, that is regrettable, but we have to be honest and say that it is not hard to believe, when we look at some of challenges that businesses face in Northern Ireland. It is interesting to note that, in East Antrim, we have twice as many young businesses — businesses that are one or two years old —than the rest of the UK. That is the time when businesses are most vulnerable to overheads such as VAT, high rent and rates and staff costs. That is when they need most support. I have also heard directly from numerous local businesses of the difficulties of recruiting and retaining staff, with so many forced to scale back operations or reduce opening hours due to a lack of staffing provision, despite an increase in the minimum wage.”