Written Ministerial Statement

The content of this written ministerial statement is as received at the time from the Minister. It has not been subject to the official reporting (Hansard) process.

The Executive Office: Publication of the Executive 3rd Response to the Covid-19 Module 1 Report Recommendations

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Published at 2pm on Friday 16 January 2026

Mrs O'Neill (The First Minister) and Mrs Little-Pengelly (The deputy First Minister): We are updating the Assembly on the Northern Ireland Executive's continued response to the UK Covid‑19 Inquiry Module 1 Report and implementation of the recommendations.

Since the publication of the Executive's initial response in January 2025, and the subsequent update in July 2025, we have remained firmly committed to learning from the Covid‑19 pandemic and from the Inquiry's findings. This third response sets out the progress made by departments in implementing the recommendations and reaffirms the Executive's dedication to strengthening preparedness for future pandemics and all emergencies that may affect our society.

The Executive recognises that the lessons learned from the pandemic must drive continuous improvement across our civil emergency structures and risk assessment processes. Close collaboration across the UK, with our devolved partners, and through ongoing engagement with the Government of Ireland, is essential to achieving a resilient whole‑system approach.

To date, actions across departments have focused on ensuring transparency, strong governance, and the sharing of best practice. This includes particular emphasis on strengthening frameworks, enhancing data infrastructure, and ensuring that training programmes and response capabilities are robust, agile, and fit for purpose.

The Executive extends its gratitude to all those who have contributed to this extensive programme of work, including the Covid bereaved families, officials, partners, and stakeholders across Northern Ireland and beyond.

The Executive remains committed to delivering on the Covid Inquiry's recommendations, strengthening our systems, and safeguarding the wellbeing of our communities.