The Executive today agreed the 2025/26 Budget which will see
increased investment in cutting waiting lists, in Special
Educational Needs, Skills for growing the economy, Lough Neagh
and Safer Communities.
Announcing the 2025/26 Budget Minister O'Dowd said: “The Budget
reflects our Programme for Government commitment to ‘Doing What
Matters Most' and shows this Executive's determination to work
together to deliver.
“This Budget will mean £215 million going towards cutting health
waiting lists and supporting investment in elective care.
“It doubles our investment in the Early Years and Childcare
Strategy to £50 million – supporting our children and helping
hard-working families.
“It provides £15 million in additional funding for Special
Educational Needs.
“It delivers £15 million to build the skills needed both now and,
in the future, to grow our economy.
“It provides an additional £5 million to make our communities
safer and £2m towards ending violence against women and girls.
“It recognises the importance of Lough Neagh and our desire to
protect it through a £5 million investment.
“It also provides £21.3 million for transformation projects in
health, justice, infrastructure and Special Educational Needs.”
Outlining investment in capital spending, Minister O'Dowd added:
“In line with our commitment to create more housing we are
investing an additional £105.7 million in waste water
infrastructure and an additional £100 million for social
housing.”
Concluding Minister O'Dowd said: “Today shows this Executive is
prepared to do things differently and prioritise the limited
funding we have available to make real change for the better in
people's daily lives.
“There is no doubt that the financial outlook still remains
incredibly challenging particularly given the Westminster
Government's continued policy of austerity.
“I will continue to make the case for better funding and to work
together with my Executive colleagues to support our workers,
families and communities.”
Notes to editors:
- The Minister's Written Ministerial Statement to the Assembly
outlines departmental allocations which can be viewed on
our website.
