Executive agrees Programme for Government
Date published:
The NI Executive has agreed a Programme for Government focused on doing what matters most.
The PfG sets out immediate priorities on which to deliver in this mandate, as well as building the foundations for a better future. It includes specific targets for each of the key priority areas, which the Executive has agreed it will work to during this mandate.
First Minister Michell O’Neill said:
“Agreement of a Programme for Government represents a collective commitment from the Executive to deliver positive change and create a better future for all.
“We believe this PfG will provide a roadmap for delivery in this mandate, and will set the foundations to build a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come."Working with our colleagues in the Executive, we have agreed a set of ambitious priorities which will make real improvements across society both today and in the years ahead.
“We look forward to bringing the Programme for Government before the Assembly for agreement, and continuing the job of delivery.”
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said:
“We have a determination to deliver. That is why the Programme for Government focuses on a small number of priorities which reflect the issues that really matter to the people of Northern Ireland.
“The PfG has been shaped in partnership for our whole society. Through the consultation process we heard from more people than ever before and we have worked together to ensure that this is a plan that works for everyone.”
The immediate priorities included in the Programme for Government are:
- Grow a Globally Competitive and Sustainable Economy;
- Deliver More Affordable, Accessible, High Quality Early Learning and Childcare;
- Cut Health Waiting Times;
- Ending Violence Against Women and Girls;
- Better Support for Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs;
- Provide More Social, Affordable and Sustainable Housing;
- Safer Communities;
- Protecting Lough Neagh and the Environment; and
- Reform and Transformation of Public Services.
Over 1,400 responses were received to the public consultation and the impact assessment consultation.
Notes to editors:
- Consultation on the draft Programme for Government (PfG) began on 9 September 2024 and closed on 4 November 2024.
- Consultation on the corresponding Impact Assessments ended on 2 December 2024. 17 public consultation events were held in person and online with over 500 attendees. The Executive Office PfG Consultation team attended over 70 events and met with more than 1400 participants to encourage them to share their views.
- There were a total of 1375 responses to the consultation, 874 to the online consultation survey and 501 written responses. There were also 30 survey responses received to the corresponding impact assessments with consultation on these closing on 2nd December.