Mass gatherings are a breach of the law

Updates from this week

Economy Minister Diane Dodds

• Announced the re-opening of tourist accomodation from July 20th. 
   
• Updated the Assembly on the current business support measures.
   
• Discussed Northern Ireland's connectivity with the Secretary of State and Belfast City Airport.
   
• Announced an advisory and oversight group to prepare for the safe resumption of on-site vocational learning.
   

Education Minister Peter Weir

• Published guidance for schools on supporting remote learning.
   
• Extended the definition of key workers to access childcare.
   
• Issued guidance to educational settings on safe working.

DAERA Minister Edwin Poots

• Moved the annual Agricultural & Horticultural census online.
   
• Paid tribute to workers in our waste sector. .
   
• Highlighted the dangers of pollution in waterways.
   
• Welcomed the re-opening of food to go outlets.

MPs

• Jeffrey Donaldson raised concerns about how the move away from 'hybrid' Parliament proceedings would impact MPs representing areas geograhically distant from London.
   
• Carla Lockhart said Health Minister should ensure a clear timetable is in place for the normalisation of cancer services.
   
• Ian Paisley called on the Government to bring forward the UK hydrogen bus strategy to assist in rebuilding the economy after the COVID pandemic.

MLAs

• Paul Frew called on the Finance Minister to publish all emails relating to the failed PPE order with Dublin.
   
• Pam Cameron welcomed the announcement of a financial package for care homes.
  
  She also called on the Health Minister to regularly review the scientific advice in relation to face coverings.

Assembly supports 'life affirming' DUP motion

This week Assembly to rejected the abortion regulations which have been recently imposed on Northern Ireland.

A motion was tabled by DUP MLAs Paul Givan, Joanne Bunting, Michelle McIlveen and Pam Cameron was passed by 46 votes to 40.

Following the result, Jeffrey Donaldson MP secured an Urgent Question in the House of Commons and DUP MPs urged the government to withdraw the regulations in light of the vote.