On Monday, Stormont returns after the summer recess and your DUP team will be hitting the ground running.
The months ahead are about one thing: making Northern Ireland work. As your Deputy First Minister, my priority – and the DUP’s priority – is to use every power of devolution to deliver real change, improve services, and stand up for what matters to you and your family.
Over the last 18 months, despite real challenges, we have achieved meaningful progress:
Supporting families: Childcare support delivered, with an additional 2,500 children now able to access full-time pre-school education.
Standing by victims: Around £100 million has been paid out through the victims’ pension, with perpetrators excluded.
Investing in communities: The NI Football Fund launched, alongside £800,000 in grants for musical instruments for bands, and new Community Infrastructure Fund launching soon
Backing teachers and pupils: Significant improvements have been secured in teachers’ pay and conditions, the transformED agenda progressed to deliver better outcomes for all children, and SEN Reform Agenda initiated
Breaking new ground: The first-ever sign language legislation is about to be introduced – an important step for accessibility and inclusion.
These are practical examples of how devolution, when it works, delivers real change. But we are also honest about the challenges ahead – particularly within our health service. Waiting lists remain far too long, and real reform is needed. We will continue to press for progress, better outcomes for patients, and a health system that works for everyone.
