No Day Named Motions
EXECUTIVE BUSINESS
Legislative Consent Motion - Finance Bill
That this Assembly agrees that the provisions in clause 49 of, and Schedule 14 to, the Finance Bill as introduced in the House of Commons on 10 May 2012, dealing with gifts to the nation, should be considered by the UK Parliament.
[Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure]
[18 May 2012]
Legislative Consent Motion - Finance Bill
That this Assembly agrees that the provisions in clause 189 of, and Schedule 23 to, the Finance Bill as introduced in the House of Commons on 10 May 2012, dealing with the devolution of Northern Ireland long haul rates of air passenger duty, should be considered by the UK Parliament.
[Minister of Finance and Personnel]
[21 May 2012]
COMMITTEE BUSINESS
Report on Fuel Poverty
That this Assembly approves the Report of the Committee for Social Development on Fuel Poverty (NIA 36/11-15); and calls on the Minister for Social Development to implement its recommendations to ensure that a strategic, cross-departmental and cross-sectoral approach is adopted to reduce and prevent fuel poverty.
[Chairperson - Committee for Social Development]
[17 May 2012]
Report on the Inquiry into Developing the Northern Ireland Economy
That this Assembly approves the Report of the Committee for Enterprise, Trade and Investment on its Inquiry into Developing the Northern Ireland Economy through Innovation, Research and Development (NIA 42/11-15); and calls on the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, in conjunction with her Executive colleagues, to implement, as applicable, the recommendations contained therein.
[Chairperson - Committee for Enterprise, Trade and Investment]
[17 May 2012]
PRIVATE MEMBERS' BUSINESS
Early Education and Care Bill
That this Assembly calls on the Minister of Education to introduce a bill covering early education and care to formally recognise the importance of the 0-6 age group and to ensure the planning, financing, regulation and co-ordination of services for young children; and further calls on the Executive to appoint a lead Department to progress policy for this sector to ensure the delivery of appropriate care and education services for young children, including childcare provision.
[Mr T Lunn]
[Mrs J Cochrane]
[Mr C Lyttle]
[05 September 2011]
Banning Wild Animals in Circuses
That this Assembly notes that the welfare needs of non-domesticated, wild animals cannot be met within the environment of a travelling circus; calls on the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to introduce subordinate legislation under the Welfare of Animals Act Northern Ireland 2011 to ban the use of wild animals in circuses; and urges the Minister to ensure that any such subordinate legislation is enforceable and would allow her officials to inspect circuses without the presence of the police.
[Mrs J Cochrane]
[Mr C Lyttle]
[05 September 2011]
Sharing of Services on a North-South Basis
That this Assembly calls on the Executive to promote and encourage shared services on a North-South basis to unlock the potential savings which would result from the delivery of services on a cross-border or all-island basis; and further calls on the Executive to consider such co-operation in practical, social and economic terms independent of differing constitutional aspirations.
[Mr K McCarthy]
[Mr C Lyttle]
[Ms A Lo]
[05 September 2011]
Mixed Housing
That this Assembly calls on the Minister for Social Development to create a duty on the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to encourage and facilitate the creation of mixed housing; and urges the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to actively market all new housing projects as integrated and to recognise its responsibility to take action to protect existing mixed housing developments.
[Mrs J Cochrane]
[Ms A Lo]
[Mr C Lyttle]
[05 September 2011]
Budget for Community Pharmacies
That this Assembly recognises the important community role played by pharmacies particularly in small towns, villages and in rural environments; and calls on the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to review community pharmacy budgets and to consider the introduction of ring-fenced funding for the community support work that is undertaken solely by pharmacies.
[Mr D McNarry]
[05 September 2011]
Part-Time Reserve Gratuity Scheme
That this Assembly, being dismayed by the failure of many deserving police reservists to benefit from the recent Part-Time Reserve Gratuity Scheme, expresses no confidence in the Minister of Justice over his handling of this issue; and calls on the Department of Justice to reopen the application process.
[Mr J Allister]
[05 September 2011]
Environmental Governance
That this Assembly notes the Department of the Environment's discussion document 'Environmental Governance'; further notes that the Environmental Protection Agency should be independent of the Executive, in order to fully investigate Government Departments; and calls on the Minister of the Environment to place the Environmental Protection Agency on an independent footing.
[Ms A Lo]
[Mr S Dickson]
[Mr T Lunn]
[Mr C Lyttle]
[05 September 2011]
North-South Parliamentary Forum
That this Assembly calls on the Assembly Commission, in partnership with the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission, to establish the North-South Parliamentary Forum without further delay.
[Mr R McCartney]
[Ms M Boyle]
[06 September 2011]
Voting Age
That this Assembly supports a reduction in the voting age to 16 for all elections and referendums.
[Mr P Flanagan]
[Mr D McKay]
[Ms S Ramsey]
[06 September 2011]
Licensing and Regulation of Experiments on Animals
That this Assembly notes that it has been practice to adopt Home Office policy on the licensing and regulation of experiments on animals; and calls on the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to develop a separate policy on the matter to secure positive change for animals in laboratories.
[Mr C Lyttle]
[Ms A Lo]
[Mr K McCarthy]
[08 September 2011]
Safety of Children
That this Assembly calls on the Minister of Justice to bring forward legislation to allow parents to monitor the movements of paedophiles and other sex offenders within their local areas to ensure the safety of their children.
[Mr A Easton]
[Mr J Craig]
[12 September 2011]
Sentencing for Riotous Behaviour and Civil Disorder
That this Assembly calls on the Minister of Justice to bring forward proposals on tougher sentencing for people engaged in riotous behaviour and civil disorder.
[Mr A Easton]
[Mr J Craig]
[12 September 2011]
Withholding Information on Child Abuse
That this Assembly notes the prevalence of child abuse on both sides of the border; condemns anyone who has attempted to cover up or withhold information on child abuse; believes that justice and closure for victims is of paramount importance; and demands that anyone who has outstanding information or knowledge of such heinous crimes informs the police.
[Mr A Easton]
[Mr J Craig]
[12 September 2011]
Extension of Court Operating Hours During Periods of Civil Unrest
That this Assembly calls on the Minister of Justice to consider the extension of court operating hours during periods of civil and public unrest, which regularly occur during the summer months, to facilitate fast and effective justice for those guilty of public disorder offences.
[Mr J Craig] [R]
[Mr R Newton] [R]
[Mr I McCrea] [R]
[20 September 2011]
Rejection of Sectarianism
That this Assembly notes that over the past number of months there have been many incidents of street violence and intimidation associated with the flying of flags, bonfires and parades which have resulted in rioting, the use of plastic bullets, personal injuries, damage to property and increased tension between communities; rejects all forms of sectarianism; asserts the right of everyone to live free from sectarian harassment; and calls on all public representatives and civic leaders to accept their leadership responsibilities by tackling the source of these problems.
[Mr A Maskey]
[Ms C Ruane]
[21 September 2011]
Abolition of Additional Remuneration for Chairpersons and Deputy Chairpersons of Assembly Committees
That this Assembly calls for the abolition of additional remuneration for the positions of Chairpersons and Deputy Chairpersons of Assembly Committees.
[Mr P Flanagan]
[Mr D McKay]
[Ms S Ramsey]
[03 October 2011]
Civil Contingencies
That this Assembly notes the harsh weather conditions expected this winter; and calls on the First Minister and deputy First Minister, with their responsibilities for civil contingencies, to outline the state of Government preparedness for future emergencies; and to demonstrate how the Executive learnt lessons from the experience of last winter.
[Mr J Byrne]
[Mrs D Kelly]
[Mr C Eastwood]
[06 October 2011]
Education Maintenance Allowance
That this Assembly recognises that the Education Maintenance Allowance acts as an invaluable lifeline for many young people who want to stay in full-time education; and calls on the Minister for Employment and Learning to retain the allowance and make the necessary improvements to ensure that it is targeted at people who have the greatest need.
[Mr B McElduff]
[Ms M Gildernew]
[Mr P Flanagan]
[10 October 2011]
Action to Eradicate Bovine Tuberculosis
That this Assembly recognises the proven role which badgers play in the spread of bovine tuberculosis; notes that if additional progress is to be made in eradicating this disease, genuine partnership working between the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and farmers is essential; recognises that inaction is no longer an option; and calls on the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to implement a selective badger cull scheme.
[Mrs J Dobson]
[Mr R Swann]
[13 October 2011]
Retention of DNA and Fingerprint Samples and Profiles
That this Assembly calls on the Minister of Justice to bring forward a legislative remedy which safeguards the presumption of innocence and the rights of detained persons in relation to the retention of DNA and fingerprint samples and profiles.
[Mr P Sheehan]
[Mr G Kelly]
[Mr R McCartney]
[Ms J McCann]
[24 October 2011]
Rejection of the Proposed Increase in Air Passenger Duty
That this Assembly rejects the proposed increase in Air Passenger Duty (APD) from £24 to £32; recognises that the current levels of APD were cited by Flybe as one of the contributing factors in its decision to withdraw its routes from Belfast to Liverpool and other parts of England, flights on which many university students rely; and calls on the Executive to take action to ensure that APD is reduced or removed, as a failure to do so will lead to the withdrawal of further flights.
[Mr P Doherty]
[Mr S Lynch]
[Mr C Ó hOisín]
[26 October 2011]
Influence of the European Union on UK Affairs
That this Assembly notes with concern the ever growing influence of the European Union in the affairs of the United Kingdom; and expresses concern that the UK Government contributes more to Europe than it receives, especially at a time when the UK finances are being squeezed.
[Mr A Easton]
[Mr R Newton]
[Mr J Wells]
[Mr J Craig]
[07 November 2011]
Housing Loan Scheme for STEM Graduates
That this Assembly calls on the Executive to investigate the possibilities for introducing a graduate housing loan scheme for first-time buyers who are graduating in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or business and finance subjects, to encourage young talent to remain in Northern Ireland after they complete their degrees.
[Mr G Campbell]
[Mr T Buchanan]
[Mr S Douglas]
[Mr D McIlveen]
[Mr A Easton]
[08 November 2011]
Abolition of the Agricultural Wages Board
That this Assembly calls upon the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to abolish the Agricultural Wages Board.
[Mr P Frew]
[Mr T Clarke]
[Mr W Irwin]
[Mr T Buchanan]
[08 November 2011]
Public Services Rapid Reporting System
That this Assembly calls on the Minister for Regional Development and the Minister of the Environment to immediately introduce a rapid reporting system, including an on-line facility, to allow people to report problems relating to street-lighting, drainage, waste collection, road maintenance and deficiencies in other public services.
[Mr J Spratt]
[Mr S Hamilton]
[Mr I McCrea]
[08 November 2011]
Victims' Charter
That this Assembly calls on the Executive to establish a Victims’ Charter which places victims at the heart of the justice process, ensures that victims are given full information concerning all the reasons for a delay in their case management and which informs victims about decisions not to prosecute and the reasons for non-prosecution.
[Mr P Givan]
[Mr S Anderson]
[Mr J Wells]
[Mr P Weir]
[08 November 2011]
Strategy to Promote Breastfeeding
That this Assembly notes the health benefits for breastfed babies; recognises that breastfeeding rates are much lower in Northern Ireland than in the rest of the UK; and calls on the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to develop a strategy to improve breastfeeding rates.
[Mr J Wells]
[Ms P Bradley]
[Mr G Dunne]
[Ms P Brown]
[08 November 2011]
Change to Name and Emblems - Northern Ireland Prison Service and Her Majesy's Prisons
That this Assembly rejects any change to the name and emblems of the Northern Ireland Prison Service and Her Majesty's Prisons; deplores the intention of the Minister of Justice to permit any such changes without the consent of the Assembly; and, as a consequence, declares no confidence in the Minister.
[Mr J Allister]
[15 November 2011]
Fuel Payments for Cancer Patients
That this Assembly recognises that cancer patients suffer extreme cold as a side-effect of their chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment; and calls on the Minister for Social Development to give these patients a one-off, automatic fuel payment of £200 at the time of treatment, which could be administered using a mechanism similar to that used for the payment of the Maternity Grant.
[Ms M Gildernew]
[Ms M Boyle]
[Mr M Brady]
[22 November 2011]
Northern Ireland Climate Change Act
That this Assembly acknowledges the economic opportunities afforded by, inter alia, renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency measures, decentralised energy generation, local food markets and the development and support of public transport; and calls on the Minister of the Environment to introduce legislation to ensure that Northern Ireland contributes its fair share of emissions reductions to help stabilise the world's climate.
[Ms A Lo]
[Mr S Agnew]
[Mr D Kinahan]
[Mr C McDevitt]
[22 November 2011]
Call for a Legislative Programme
That this Assembly recognises that its purpose is to hold the Executive to account and to scrutinise the actions of Ministers and their Departments; notes with deep regret that, seven months into this Assembly term, there has been a noticeable absence of Executive business; and calls on the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to produce a legislative programme urgently.
[Mr T Elliott]
[Mr M Nesbitt]
[Mr J McCallister]
[22 November 2011]
All Party Group on Muscular Dystrophy
That this Assembly welcomes the All Party Group on Muscular Dystrophy; is concerned about the lack of access to specialist neuromuscular care; recognises the vital work that the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign's Northern Ireland Muscle Group and its Trailblazers network have done in raising awareness of this issue; and calls on the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to act on the evidence submitted to the inquiry conducted by the All Party Group on Muscular Dystrophy into the provision of specialist neuromuscular care.
[Mr C McDevitt]
[Mr R Swann]
[Mrs K McKevitt]
[Mr K McCarthy]
[Mr M Brady]
[Mr P Weir]
[Mr R Beggs]
[29 November 2011]
Primary Languages Programme
That this Assembly recognises the cognitive benefits for children who are fluent in more than one language; notes the Queen's University, Belfast, School of Psychology report which shows that pupils educated in more than one language have higher levels of attainment; and calls on the Minister of Education to ensure that more schools avail of the Primary Languages Programme which delivers lessons in Irish, Spanish and Polish.
[Ms M Boyle]
[Mr D McKay]
[Mr P Flanagan]
[01 December 2011]
Media Stakeholder Forum
That this Assembly notes the significant role played by the broadcast, print and social media in promoting language, culture and sport; and calls on the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to establish a stakeholder forum to formulate proposals on how equality and parity of esteem in language, culture and sport can be promoted through the media.
[Mr C Ó hOisín]
[Mr O McMullan]
[Mr P Sheehan]
[08 December 2011]
North West Regional College
That this Assembly notes with concern the behaviour of the North West Regional College in its communication with the Committee for Employment and Learning, on the issue of ongoing industrial relations at the College, and in particular, its failure to provide the Committee with a copy of the Curriculum Audit which was carried out by the College; and calls on the Minister for Employment and Learning to initiate a wide-ranging review into employment practices at the College.
[Mr P Ramsey]
[Mr M Durkan]
[Mr C Eastwood]
[16 December 2011]
A Shared Future
That this Assembly acknowledges the role and duty of civic leaders in advancing a shared future; recognises the failure of the draft Programme for Government to provide an agreed approach to mark the numerous commemorations and anniversaries that will take place over the next decade, and which are of great significance to the politics of this island; notes the ongoing work of the Executive's Sub-Committee on Cohesion, Sharing and Integration; and calls on the Executive to ensure that the new Cohesion, Sharing and Integration Strategy addresses the commemorations in a manner which advances reconciliation.
[Mr C Eastwood]
[Dr A McDonnell]
[Mr C McDevitt]
[Mrs D Kelly]
[16 December 2011]
Teaching of Computer Science in Schools
That this Assembly believes that Computer Science is key to providing the necessary skills that the industry requires to make Northern Ireland a leader in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector; further believes that there is an important difference between the school subjects of ICT and Computer Science; and calls on the Minister of Education to actively encourage all schools to offer Computer Science as a discrete subject, separate from ICT at Key Stage 3, and as an option at GCSE and A Level, and to require the schools' managed ICT provider to supply the software required to offer Computer Science at A Level as part of the standard installation in all post-primary schools; and further calls on the Minister for Employment and Learning to ensure that the course content and format of Computer Science subjects that are offered by universities delivers the skills required to support industry.
[Mrs J Cochrane]
[Mr T Lunn]
[Ms A Lo]
[09 January 2012]
Business Improvement Districts
That this Assembly recognises the potential economic and societal advantages of Business Improvement Districts in supporting and growing indigenous businesses and enhancing relationships between businesses and local government; notes the success of similar schemes in other parts of the UK; and calls on the Minister for Social Development to progress legislation, without delay, to facilitate a timely introduction of Business Improvement Districts.
[Mrs J Cochrane]
[Ms A Lo]
[Mr S Dickson]
[09 January 2012]
Disparity in the Community Background of Students Attending Regional Colleges
That this Assembly notes with concern, the disparity in the community background of students attending Regional Colleges; and calls on the Minister for Employment and Learning to take urgent action to address this imbalance.
[Mr A Easton]
[Mr D McIlveen]
[Mrs B Hale]
[Mr J Craig]
[10 January 2012]
Impact of Budget Cuts on the Education System
That this Assembly notes with deep concern, the impact of budget cuts on our education system, including the possibility that thousands of teaching posts could be under threat; and calls on the Minister of Education to ensure that the complement of the education workforce is largely maintained to sustain pupil teacher ratios and curriculum delivery, to give all children and young people access to a world class education.
[Mr C McDevitt]
[10 January 2012]
Review of the Northern Ireland Prison Service
That this Assembly notes recommendation 8 of the Review of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, by Dame Anne Owers, relating to the contentious practice of full body searching of prisoners entering and leaving prison; and calls on the Minister of Justice to implement this recommendation as soon as possible; and further calls on the Minister to work to ensure a full resolution of the on-going dispute in Roe House, Maghaberry Prison.
[Mr A Maginness]
[Mr C Eastwood]
[10 January 2012]
Strategy on Illegal Fishing
That this Assembly calls on the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Minister of Justice, to work collaboratively to introduce a strategy to address the issue of illegal fishing and increased penalties for attacks, or the threat of attacks, on legally appointed bailiffs.
[Mr R Swann]
[Mr D Kinahan]
[Mr B McCrea]
[Mr M McGimpsey]
[10 January 2012]
Access to Boston College Archived Records of Interviews with Terrorists
That this Assembly supports the PSNI in securing access to the records of interviews with terrorists which are held by Boston College; and calls for the release of the entire archive to the PSNI to help tackle unsolved terrorist crimes.
[Mr J Allister]
[16 January 2012]
Community Meals Programme
That this Assembly calls on the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to work with the Public Health Agency, the Health and Social Care Trusts and others, to implement a community meals programme to help address the issue of malnourishment, the need for social contact and cold-related deaths in older people.
[Mr M Brady]
[Ms M Gildernew]
[Ms M Boyle]
[16 January 2012]
Twentieth Anniversary of the IRA Massacre at Teebane
That this Assembly notes the twentieth anniversary of the IRA massacre at Teebane, and conveys its support to the grieving families; expresses disappointment and dissatisfaction that no convictions have resulted from this atrocity; and calls on the public, including any Member of the Assembly, to provide any relevant information to the PSNI.
[Mr J Allister]
[16 January 2012]
Construction Industry
That this Assembly recognises the current plight of the construction industry; and calls on the Executive to prioritise the proposed maintenance and capital spending plans of each Department, to stimulate the local economy and support jobs within the construction industry.
[Mr P McGlone]
[Mr J Byrne]
[Dr A McDonnell]
[17 January 2012]
A Navigation and Development Authority for Lough Neagh
That this Assembly notes the potential of Lough Neagh to develop the local economy through tourism and leisure initiatives; and calls on the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to create a Navigation and Development Authority for Lough Neagh without further delay.
[Mrs D Kelly]
[Mrs K McKevitt]
[Mr P McGlone]
[24 January 2012]
Intensive Care Unit at the Antrim Area Hospital
That this Assembly calls on the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to take action to reduce the prolonged waiting time for patients in need of Intensive Care Unit beds at the Antrim Area Hospital and to increase the number of intensive care beds at the hospital.
[Mr D McKay]
[Mr M McLaughlin]
[Mr C Ó hOisín]
[Mr O McMullan]
[Mr F Molloy]
[25 January 2012]
Blood Donation by Homosexual Men
That this Assembly notes the report on Blood Donor Selection Criteria Review published by the Advisory Committee on the Safety of Blood, Tissue and Organs in April 2011; and calls on the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to modify the criteria governing blood donation by homosexual men in line with the findings contained in the report.
[Ms S Ramsey]
[Mr M Brady]
[Ms M Gildernew]
[14 February 2012]
Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
That this Assembly, having regard to Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee, calls on the Assembly Commission to recover the Assembly's Lydia de Burgh portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and display it in the Great Hall in Parliament Buildings.
[Mr J Allister]
[Mr D McNarry]
[Mr M Copeland]
[Mr D Kinahan]
[Mr D McClarty]
[Mr G Campbell]
[Lord Morrow]
[21 February 2012]
Family Fund
That this Assembly recognises that families with a child who is disabled, or seriously ill, often face significant additional financial pressures; notes that the Family Fund provides financial lifelines to such families; further notes, with regret, that a reduction in funding has resulted in the Family Fund being unable to continue to offer grants; and calls on the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to ensure that the level of funding provided in 2012-2013 is adequate to meet the existing demand and reflects the overall increase in grant applications.
[Mr J McCallister]
[Mr S Gardiner]
[21 February 2012]
Cross-Border Education
That this Assembly notes the report 'A Study of Obstacles to Cross-Border Undergraduate Education' (May 2011) based on research by the European Employment Services Cross-Border Partnership at the request of the Irish Business and Employers Confederation and the Confederation of British Industry Joint Business Council; and calls on the Minister for Employment and Learning and the Minister of Education to work closely with the Department of Education and Skills to remove the barriers which limit student flows within the island of Ireland.
[Mr B McElduff]
[Mr F McCann]
[28 February 2012]
Path to Economic Recovery
That this Assembly notes with concern the continuing pursuance of austerity measures by both the British and Irish Governments; recognises the negative impact of these measures on the local economy; and calls on the Executive to make representations to both Governments urging them to follow a path to economic recovery that is based on job creation, reducing levels of poverty and protecting public services.
[Mr P Flanagan]
[Ms J McCann]
[Mr D McKay]
[29 February 2012]
Same Sex Marriages
That this Assembly believes that all couples, including those of the same sex, should have the right to marry in the eyes of the State and that, while religious institutions ought to continue to have the right to define, observe and practise marriage within the bounds of their institutions, all married couples, including those of the same sex, should have the same legal entitlement to the protections, responsibilities, rights, obligations and benefits afforded by the legal institution of marriage; calls on the Minister of Finance and Personnel to introduce legislation to guarantee that couples of any sex or gender identity receive equal benefit; and calls on the First Minister and deputy First Minister to ensure that all legislation adheres to the Government’s commitments to promote and protect equality for all.
[Mr S Agnew]
[06 March 2012]
Exception of Teachers from the Fair Employment and Treatment (NI) Order 1998
That this Assembly recognises that the Fair Employment and Treatment (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 makes discrimination on the ground of religious belief or political opinion unlawful in employment; accepts that not all types of employment can be covered by the legislation; notes that schools should reflect diversity; and calls on the Minister of Education to work with the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to seek a change to this Order to remove the exception of teachers.
[Mr M Nesbitt]
[Mr T Elliott]
[Mrs J Dobson]
[06 March 2012]
National Park
That this Assembly notes that Northern Ireland is the only region in Western Europe without a National Park; believes that a National Park would further protect and enhance the bio-diversity, tourism potential and culture of an area; and calls on the Minister of the Environment to introduce legislation to enable the designation of a National Park.
[Ms A Lo]
[Mr K McCarthy]
[Mr T Lunn]
[13 March 2012]
Smart-Metering Technology
That this Assembly notes the twin benefits of smart-metering technology in meeting carbon reduction targets and tackling fuel poverty; and calls on the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to integrate the use of this technology into the wider energy strategy.
[Mr C Lyttle]
[Ms A Lo]
[Mr K McCarthy]
[Mr T Lunn]
[13 March 2012]
Strategy on Youth Participation in Sport
That this Assembly notes the annual number of deaths as a result of obesity-related illnesses and the opportunities to reduce long-term health costs by investing in sport; further notes that sport participation rates in Northern Ireland are among the lowest in the United Kingdom and Ireland; and calls on the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to develop a cross- departmental strategy, which highlights key targets and performance indicators, to increase youth participation in sport.
[Mr C Lyttle]
[Ms A Lo]
[Mr K McCarthy]
[Mrs J Cochrane]
[13 March 2012]
Integrated Cultural Tourism Strategy
That this Assembly notes the financial benefits of a thriving cultural heritage; agrees that there is potential to exploit further this sector in Northern Ireland and to build on a shared future through integrated cultural heritage; and calls on the Minster of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to work with the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, and Tourism Ireland to create a Northern Ireland specific, integrated cultural tourism strategy.
[Mr C Lyttle]
[Ms A Lo]
[Mr K McCarthy]
[Mr T Lunn]
[13 March 2012]
Agri-food Strategy
That this Assembly recognises the continued growth in our agri-food industry, despite difficult economic circumstances; notes that there is further potential to boost this sector; further notes that neighbouring competing regions have more advanced strategies and are out-performing Northern Ireland; and calls on the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to develop an advanced and cross-departmental agri-food strategy with set targets for growth.
[Mr C Lyttle]
[Ms A Lo]
[Mr K McCarthy]
[Mrs J Cochrane]
[13 March 2012]
Unemployment Among Young People
That this Assembly notes with concern the serious issue of unemployment among young people; welcomes the opportunity presented by the Programme for Government to offer fresh hope to young people who are most disadvantaged and are not in employment, education or training; and calls on the Minister for Employment and Learning to prioritise this problem through a coherent, evidence-based and value for money spectrum of interventions that can make a real difference to the lives of these young people.
[Mr D McIlveen]
[Mr P Ramsey]
[Mr B McCrea]
[27 March 2012]
Death of Leading Firefighter Joseph McCloskey
That this Assembly notes with concern that there has not been a full investigation into the death of Leading Firefighter Joseph McCloskey on 2 November 2003 in Limavady; calls on the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to instigate immediately a full and independent public inquiry into this matter; and further calls for consideration to be given to the establishment of a dedicated Ombudsman's Office for the Fire and Rescue Service.
[Mr C Ó hOisín]
[Ms S Ramsey]
[Mr M Brady]
[29 March 2012]
Upgrading of the A26
That this Assembly notes that the A26 route is a key part of our tourism infrastructure; further notes that the proposed upgrade of the A26 would significantly assist the Causeway Coast to compete with other areas and become one of the top tourist destinations on the island of Ireland; and calls on the Minister for Regional Development to prioritise the upgrading of the A26.
[Mr D McKay]
[Mr P Doherty]
[Mr O McMullan]
[30 March 2012]
The Arms Trade Treaty
That this Assembly recognises the strong contribution made by the UK Government as one of the driving forces behind the Arms Trade Treaty; calls on the Prime Minister to publicly affirm his Government's commitment to the establishment of a robust human rights compliant Arms Trade Treaty in 2012; and further calls on the UK Government to insist, during the July 2012 formal negotiations, that the sale of arms shall not be authorised where there is a substantial risk that it will lead to serious violations of human rights or international humanitarian law.
[Mr C McDevitt]
[Mr S Agnew]
[Ms J McCann]
[Mr J Wells]
[Mr J McCallister]
[16 April 2012]
Freedom of Information Act 2000
That this Assembly notes the importance of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and accepts that it provides a valuable form of scrutiny, which has been used positively and constructively; expresses concern at the poor record of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister in responding to Freedom of Information requests within the time limits set in the legislation; further notes with concern a number of the proposals contained in the Northern Ireland Civil Service response to the Westminster Justice Select Committee’s review of the Freedom of Information Act; and calls on the First Minister and deputy First Minister to improve their response times and to give a firm commitment to support the continuation of the current fee regulations for Freedom of Information requests.
[Mr T Elliott]
[Mr M Nesbitt]
[Mr D Kinahan]
[17 April 2012]
Armed Forces Day
That this Assembly supports Armed Forces Day on 30 June 2012.
[Mr D McNarry]
[Mr D Hilditch]
[Mrs B Hale]
[17 April 2012]
Delay in Issuing New Farm Maps and Receipt of Single Farm Payments
That this Assembly notes the importance of farmers being provided with accurate maps on a timely basis to assist them in completing their 2012 Single Application Form; notes with regret that there was a failure to finalise the new maps under the Land Parcel Identification System in advance of the 2012 cycle; and calls on the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to resolve urgently the on-going delays which farmers are experiencing in receiving both their farm maps and their Single Farm Payments.
[Mrs J Dobson] [R]
[Mr R Swann]
[17 April 2012]
Apology from the Republic of Ireland (Revised Wording)
That this Assembly welcomes the improved relations with the Republic of Ireland; further welcomes the success of the visit by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to the Republic of Ireland in 2011; notes with concern the recent evidence given to the Smithwick Tribunal regarding a lack of support for the investigation of terrorist suspects; believes that relations would improve further if the current Government of the Republic of Ireland were to address the role played by the Irish Government of the day in the emergence of the Provisional IRA and the roles of past Governments regarding the pursuit of terrorists; and calls on the Prime Minister of the Republic of Ireland to issue an apology.
[Mr S Anderson]
[Mr S Moutray]
[Mr M Storey]
[Mr G Campbell]
[23 April 2012]
Rejection of Regionalised Pay Proposal
That this Assembly rejects the Chancellor of the Exchequer's plan to introduce regionalised pay; recognises that the arrangement would enshrine unfairness in public sector pay; commits to the principle of equal pay for equal work; expresses grave concern that the proposal would result in further cuts to the block grant; and resolves to oppose the proposals, given the power the Executive has to set public sector pay rates in Northern Ireland.
[Mr D Bradley]
[Mr A Maginness]
[Mr C McDevitt]
[26 April 2012]
Diabetes Strategy
That this Assembly notes the increase in the number of people diagnosed with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes; further notes the specific increase in Type 1 diabetes amongst children; acknowledges the cost to the Health Service of managing diabetes; and calls on the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to introduce urgently a properly resourced diabetes strategy.
[Mr C McDevitt]
[Mr P Ramsey]
[26 April 2012]
Mr Martin McGuinness' Role in the IRA
That this Assembly, concerned by the recent evidence given to the Smithwick Tribunal, calls on Mr Martin McGuinness to explain truthfully his full role in the IRA.
[Mr J Allister]
[27 April 2012]
Rural White Paper Action Plan
That this Assembly notes the impending publication of the Rural White Paper Action Plan; further notes that it should provide a basis for Executive Departments to work together to address the key issues and challenges facing rural communities; expresses concern that the draft Rural White Paper Action Plan, which was so long awaited, was lacking in strategic vision and measurable outcomes; and calls on the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to ensure that the final document more adequately reflects the desires and needs of rural communities.
[Mrs J Dobson]
[Mr R Swann]
[30 April 2012]
European School Milk Subsidy Scheme
That this Assembly notes that the purpose of the European School Milk Subsidy Scheme is to maintain, or increase, the consumption of milk products by school children and ultimately to encourage continued consumption through later stages in life; further notes that the Scheme enables Education and Library Boards to provide drinking milk to pupils at a reduced price; expresses concern at the relatively low level of awareness and uptake of the Scheme in Northern Ireland; and calls on the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to work closely with the Minister of Education to review the Scheme and develop an action plan to increase the involvement of schools and children.
[Mrs J Dobson]
[Mr R Swann]
[30 April 2012]
Energy Performance Certificates
That this Assembly notes the successful introduction of Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) in 2008; further notes the benefit of cost-effective recommendations on how to improve further the energy performance of buildings and the subsequent reduction in energy bills; and calls on the Minister for Social Development to investigate the feasibility of making it mandatory for properties with a reasonable expectation of habitation to meet a minimum EPC rating determined by the Department.
[Mr M Copeland]
[30 April 2012]
Social Housing Construction Targets
That this Assembly notes that the Social Housing Development Programme for 2012/13 and 2014/15 proposes the construction of 4,600 new social homes; accepts the findings of the Net Stock Model which indicated the need for 1,900 new homes to be built each year in addition to another 600 to bridge shortfalls from previous years; expresses concern at the proposed construction levels of new social housing; and calls on the Minister for Social Development to review urgently the situation and to detail how he will limit the impact of the continuing shortfall on the social housing waiting list, the level of homelessness, and the provision of adequate social housing for some of the most socially disadvantaged and vulnerable residents.
[Mr M Copeland]
[30 April 2012]
Review of Social Care
That this Assembly calls on the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to undertake a fundamental review of the scope and delivery of social care.
[Mr J McCallister]
[Mr S Gardiner]
[30 April 2012]
Adopting an Area-Based Approach for the Warm Homes Scheme
That this Assembly notes the valuable contribution of the Warm Homes Scheme to date in making homes warmer, healthier and more energy efficient, and the important role the Scheme plays in tackling the fuel poverty crisis; further notes the success of the Kirklees Warm Zone Scheme which used an area-based approach and which was able to assist many more homes with much fewer resources; and calls on the Minister for Social Development to commission a study on whether a similar area-based approach could be adopted for the operation of the Warm Homes Scheme in Northern Ireland.
[Mr M Copeland]
[Mr S Agnew]
[30 April 2012]
Relocation of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Headquarters
That this Assembly notes the proposed relocation of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Devlopment headquarters as outlined in the 2011-2015 Budget Spending and Savings Proposals; agrees that public sector jobs should be spread fairly across all areas of Northern Ireland; expresses concern at the proposed level of expenditure on the project in the current financial circumstances; and calls on the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to ensure that her Department investigates all available options, including reviewing suitable publicly-owned vacant properties, before committing to the construction of new headquarters.
[Mrs J Dobson]
[Mr R Swann]
[30 April 2012]
Agency Workers from the Filipino Community
That this Assembly notes the research carried out by the Northern Ireland Council for Ethnic Minorities in relation to the experiences of the Filipino community in Northern Ireland; and calls on the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minster to consider whether existing equality legislation provides adequate protection for agency workers, regardless of whether they are EU or non-EU citizens.
[Mr D McIlveen]
[Mr S Agnew]
[Ms A Lo]
[Mr C McDevitt]
[01 May 2012]
Publication of a Tourism Strategy
That this Assembly welcomes the recent increases in the spend by overseas tourists visiting Northern Ireland; notes the tourism potential which is presented through unique events such as the Decade of Centenaries, the Irish Open and the World Police and Fire Games; further notes the need for both a cross-departmental approach to tourism and adequate planning and monitoring of departmental actions; and calls on the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to bring forward a Tourism Strategy to ensure that Northern Ireland is making the most of its economic potential in this area.
[Mrs S Overend]
[Mr R Swann]
[09 May 2012]
Induction Year for Newly Qualified Teachers
That this Assembly notes Professor Gerry McCormac's report 'Advancing Professionalism in Teaching' which reviewed the Teachers' Agreement in Scotland, in particular the recommendation that the guaranteed induction year for newly qualified teachers should continue; welcomes the Scottish Government's confirmation that the arrangement will remain; and calls on the Minister of Education to introduce a similar arrangement.
[Miss M McIlveen]
[Mr M Storey]
[11 May 2012]
Access to Finance
That this Assembly notes that small and medium-sized businesses make up a significant majority of the business community; recognises the difficult environment in which they are currently trading; expresses concern about the difficulties that many of these businesses have had in accessing finance; and calls on Her Majesty's Treasury to set Northern Ireland specific targets for lending.
[Mrs S Overend]
[Mr D Kinahan]
[14 May 2012]
Levels of Absenteeism in Schools
That this Assembly recognises that the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister is responsible for co-ordinating the work of the Executive and for children and young people's issues; notes the high levels of pupil absenteeism in primary and post-primary schools in many communities, and in particular, the high levels in areas identified by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency as being predominately Protestant; and calls on the First Minister and deputy First Minister to ensure that an integrated approach to tackling this issue is adopted by all relevant Departments, in conjunction with parents or guardians, to enable more young people to reach their full potential.
[Mr R Beggs] [R]
[Mr M Nesbitt]
[Mr D Kinahan]
[21 May 2012]
Publication of the WAVE Trauma Centre Research
That this Assembly congratulates the WAVE Trauma Centre for securing 10,000 signatures for its petition which highlights the continuing needs of people injured during the Troubles; notes the publication of its report 'The needs of individuals and their families injured as a result of the Troubles in Northern Ireland', and its recommendation that future policy should embrace a needs-based approach; and calls on the First Minister and deputy First Minster to give an early indication of their commitment to working with the Minister of Finance and Personnel to find the additional funds required to fund the report’s proposals.
[Mr M Nesbitt] [R]
[Mr D Kinahan]
[21 May 2012]
Medals for World War II Veterans of the Arctic Convoys
That this Assembly calls on the Prime Minister to honour his pre-election pledge to award medals to the remaining World War II veterans who participated in the Arctic convoys, and in doing so, recognise their bravery in undertaking what has been described as 'the worst journey in the world'.
[Mr A Ross]
[Mr P Weir]
[Mrs B Hale]
[21 May 2012]