Public Health Agency must publish details of 16 clusters – Bradshaw

Alliance Health Spokesperson Paula Bradshaw has said the admission by the Public Health Agency that there have been sixteen clusters since 22 May means the nature of those clusters must be revealed. The South Belfast MLA stated: “I myself had asked Assembly Questions about the nature of apparent outbreaks in particular locations, and about what […]

Armstrong disappointed at Capita PIP extension

Alliance Communities spokesperson Kellie Armstrong MLA has said she is disappointed after the Capita organisation received an extension to its contract to deliver assessments for Personal Independence Payments (PIP). The organisation, which has received consistent criticism for its assessment scheme, will have its contract with the Department for Communities – initially due to expire in […]

Bradshaw welcomes moves towards soft opt-out organ donation

Alliance Health Spokesperson Paula Bradshaw has welcomed moves towards introducing a soft opt-out for organ donation. The South Belfast MLA stated: “I strongly welcome that progress is being made on improving the organ donation system in Northern Ireland. “It is particularly welcome that proposals are advanced towards a soft opt-out system, which is a reasonable […]

Lyttle welcomes latest step in prison officer health and wellbeing review

Alliance MLA Chris Lyttle has welcomed the latest step in a review into health and wellbeing support for prison officers. Justice Minister Naomi Long has announced the appointment of psychologist Siobhan Keating and HR Director Gillian Robinson to undertake the review. It will provide a report to the Minister by the end of October. “Prison […]

Local Government should link up with Executive to provide jobs and benefit advice, says Eastwood

Local Government should be linked up with Executive Departments to provide a one-stop shop for those seeking advice around jobs, benefits, reskilling and training opportunities, Alliance Councillor Sorcha Eastwood has said. Councillor Eastwood was speaking after meeting with officials from the Department for Communities, alongside party colleague Kellie Armstrong MLA. She said a wraparound service […]