Letter from the Speaker re - Use of Electronic Devices in the Assembly Chamber

SP307_26 Letter to All Members re Use of Electronic Devices in the Assembly Chamber.pdf (207.09 kb)

The Speaker
Room 39
Parliament Buildings
Ballymiscaw
Stormont Belfast,
BT4 3XX
Tel: +44 (0) 28 9052 1130
email: speaker@niassembly.gov.uk

To: All Assembly

13 October 2026

Dear Members

Use of Electronic Devices in the Assembly Chamber 

I want to remind all Members of the provisions in relation to the use of electronic devices in the Assembly Chamber.

Speaker Hay made a ruling in April 2012 to permit the use of electronic devices in the Chamber

The limited use of electronic devices in the Assembly Chamber is permitted to enable Members to use electronic speaking notes, receive messages, research relevant points and deal with some other business while waiting to be called in a debate. However, the use of electronic devices in the Chamber has never been without restrictions.

Electronic devices are required to be used discreetly and should not disrupt or distract from the business in the Chamber. The use of cameras on devices to take images or record footage in the Chamber is also prohibited.

Technology constantly evolves and there is a need to keep these issues under review. Following an occurrence during business last night, for which an apology has been made to the House, I want to provide specific clarification to Members that the wearing of ear buds is also prohibited in the Chamber.

A core purpose of the Chamber is for Members to listen to debate, including interventions from the Chair. Wearing ear buds in the Chamber, even during a division, is disrespectful to the Assembly and other Members, and is unprofessional.

The only occasion on which a Member is permitted to wear headphones or similar devices is when they are required to hear the provided interpretation of another Member speaking in a different language. I ask all Members to note this ruling.

Yours Sincerely,

EDWIN POOTS MLA
SPEAKER