That this House expresses its profound sadness and deep regret at the passing of the phenomenal international actor Sam Neill at the age of 78; prides itself that despite his global renown and deep roots in New Zealand, he was born Nigel John Dermot Neill in Omagh, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland in 1947; recognises his lifelong connection to and fondness for Ulster, where he spent his formative early years and to which he returned professionally to deliver masterclass performances, notably as a Belfast police chief in the BBC’s Peaky Blinders; celebrates his extraordinary five-decade career on stage and screen, commanding global audiences in cinematic masterpieces ranging from Jurassic Park and The Piano to The Hunt for Red October; notes that he brought immensely dignified warmth, unmatched versatility, and a uniquely intelligent presence to every role he undertook; acknowledges his immense courage, humour, and characteristic dignity, particularly during his hard-fought battles with illness; and extends its most heartfelt and deepest condolences to his family circle, friends, and many admirers across Northern Ireland, New Zealand, and the entire globe at this sudden and immense loss.

That this House expresses its profound sadness and deep regret at the passing of the phenomenal international actor Sam Neill at the age of 78; prides itself that despite his global renown and deep roots in New Zealand, he was born Nigel John Dermot Neill in Omagh, County Tyrone, Northern...

That this House notes with concern that Northern Ireland has one of the highest incidence rates of Phenylketonuria (PKU) globally, affecting approximately 1 in 4,000 newborns compared to the UK wider average of 1 in 10,000; acknowledges that PKU is a debilitating, rare genetic metabolic condition requiring a life-altering, highly restrictive low-protein diet and specialized medical supplements to prevent irreversible neurological damage and severe intellectual disabilities; celebrates the efforts of grassroots advocates, including Northern Ireland campaigners from the National Society for Phenylketonuria, and local pharmaceutical innovators like Craigavon-based Galen Limited, for their continuous work to elevate public understanding and support local families; welcomes the recent cross-party political solidarity shown on International PKU Day, including the symbolic illumination of civic buildings across Northern Ireland; expresses concern regarding the daily social, financial, and psychological burdens placed on the estimated 400 individuals living with PKU and their carers across the region; recognises that while the routine newborn heel prick test provides critical early diagnosis, managing the condition remains a lifelong struggle; acknowledges that recent advancements in medical technology and therapeutics offer transformative opportunities to reduce this dietary burden; and calls on the UK Government to work collaboratively with the Northern Ireland Department of Health to ensure long-term, equitable funding for metabolic clinics and to accelerate access to cutting-edge, innovative new treatments, such as sepiapterin, to fundamentally improve quality of life.

That this House notes with concern that Northern Ireland has one of the highest incidence rates of Phenylketonuria (PKU) globally, affecting approximately 1 in 4,000 newborns compared to the UK wider average of 1 in 10,000; acknowledges that PKU is a debilitating, rare genetic metabolic condition requiring a life-altering, highly...

That this House celebrates the 30th anniversary of Christians Against Poverty (CAP), founded in 1996 by John Kirkby; commends the outstanding dedication of its staff, partner churches, and volunteers who have spent three decades providing free, expert debt advice and holistic support to individuals and families facing severe financial and emotional distress across the United Kingdom; notes with gratitude that CAP's vital services have helped tens of thousands of people navigate complex financial challenges, avoid homelessness, and find freedom from the crushing burden of unmanageable debt; recognises the significant expansion of its work over the past 30 years to include life-changing job clubs, life skills courses, and financial education groups; expresses deep concern that the ongoing cost-of-living pressures continue to trap vulnerable households in poverty; thanks, specifically, the CAP team in Newtownards who have helped thousands of families to get out of debt and learn to live a debt free life and given them support, love and hope; and calls on the Government to recognise the indispensable role of the voluntary sector in poverty relief and to continue working alongside organisations like CAP to ensure adequate funding and support for free, accessible debt advice nationwide.

That this House celebrates the 30th anniversary of Christians Against Poverty (CAP), founded in 1996 by John Kirkby; commends the outstanding dedication of its staff, partner churches, and volunteers who have spent three decades providing free, expert debt advice and holistic support to individuals and families facing severe financial and...

That this House congratulates the AGEnda North Down and Ards charity on the celebration of its 40th anniversary within the Borough; acknowledges the charity's four decades of vital, volunteer-led support, which enables older people to remain independent and connected through initiatives like daily Good Morning Calls, home visits, and social activities; further acknowledges the organisation's long-term commitment to enhancing the well-being, social connection, and support systems for older residents and their carers in the local area; and expresses its best wishes for the charity's future work.

That this House congratulates the AGEnda North Down and Ards charity on the celebration of its 40th anniversary within the Borough; acknowledges the charity's four decades of vital, volunteer-led support, which enables older people to remain independent and connected through initiatives like daily Good Morning Calls, home visits, and social...

That this House notes the celebration of Armed Forces Day 2026 and expresses its profound, unwavering gratitude to the brave men and women of His Majesty’s Armed Forces, including serving personnel, reservists, veterans, and their families; acknowledges the foundational role our military personnel play in defending our national security, protecting the UK's sovereignty, and upholding democratic freedoms both at home and abroad; recognises with immense pride the deeply rooted, historic, and disproportionate contribution made by generations of service personnel from Northern Ireland who have stood on the frontline to protect the Union and global peace; reaffirms the crucial importance of fully implementing and strengthening the Armed Forces Covenant across all parts of the United Kingdom to ensure that veterans and their families face no disadvantage and receive the dedicated healthcare, housing, and welfare support they earned through their sacrifice; remembers with thanksgiving all those from our Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the Crown and country; and calls on the Government to ensure our regiments remain robustly resourced, highly capable, and fully equipped to tackle emerging global threats in an increasingly unstable world.

That this House notes the celebration of Armed Forces Day 2026 and expresses its profound, unwavering gratitude to the brave men and women of His Majesty’s Armed Forces, including serving personnel, reservists, veterans, and their families; acknowledges the foundational role our military personnel play in defending our national security, protecting...

That this House congratulates Ards Shopping Centre in Newtownards on celebrating its historic 50th anniversary landmark; notes that since officially opening its doors in June 1976 as Northern Ireland’s very first hypermarket, anchored by the iconic and fondly remembered Woolco, it has stood as a progressive, premier retail destination for the people of the Ards Peninsula and the wider County Down region; commends the centre’s ongoing dedication to serving the local community by remaining a vibrant hub for commerce, employment, family days out, and social connection; highlights its successful modern evolution into a bustling retail complex hosting vital community anchors like Asda, Primark, and TK Maxx; and wishes the management team, centre staff, retailers, and the entire shopping community of Newtownards continued growth, success, and prosperity for the next fifty years.

That this House congratulates Ards Shopping Centre in Newtownards on celebrating its historic 50th anniversary landmark; notes that since officially opening its doors in June 1976 as Northern Ireland’s very first hypermarket, anchored by the iconic and fondly remembered Woolco, it has stood as a progressive, premier retail destination for...

That this House congratulates Killinchy Young Farmers' Club on celebrating its 95th anniversary; notes that since its formation in 1931, the club has played a vital role in the rural community of County Down by supporting young people aged 12 to 30; recognises the club's outstanding contributions to local agriculture, skill development, and community fundraising; commends its successful participation in Young Farmers' Clubs of Ulster competitions, including sports, drama, and stock judging; thanks the dedicated office bearers, committee members, and volunteers, both past and present, who have sustained the club's vibrant legacy; and wishes Killinchy Young Farmers' Club continued success and prosperity for its centenary and many years to come.

That this House congratulates Killinchy Young Farmers' Club on celebrating its 95th anniversary; notes that since its formation in 1931, the club has played a vital role in the rural community of County Down by supporting young people aged 12 to 30; recognises the club's outstanding contributions to local agriculture,...

That this House congratulates the Newtownards Probus Club on celebrating its historic 50th anniversary landmark; notes that for five decades the club has provided an invaluable pillar of fellowship, connection, and community engagement for retired and semi-retired professionals throughout Newtownards and the wider Ards peninsula; commends the dedicated efforts of successive committees and members who have volunteered their time to foster lasting friendships, combat social isolation, and coordinate a rich programme of weekly meetings, guest speakers, and events; celebrates the milestone of their 50th anniversary dinner; and wishes the club, its executive committee, and all its current and future members continued success and growth for many years to come.

That this House congratulates the Newtownards Probus Club on celebrating its historic 50th anniversary landmark; notes that for five decades the club has provided an invaluable pillar of fellowship, connection, and community engagement for retired and semi-retired professionals throughout Newtownards and the wider Ards peninsula; commends the dedicated efforts of...

That this House expresses concern at the forced takeover of Ewing Hall, part of Forman Christian College, Lahore, on 11 June 2026; notes that the University states Ewing Hall stands on land originally granted in 1915 for educational purposes and that the building was taken over, with FCCU told it had only twenty four hours to remove its property; further notes that claims of abandonment are inaccurate, as the building continued to function as a student hostel until approximately 2018 and FCCU invested nearly 5 million Pakistan Rupees in a structural assessment completed in March 2026; recognises Ewing Hall’s importance as a minority heritage landmark and FCCU’s long standing role in supporting marginalised minority students through fee assistance and inclusive education; welcomes the positive steps of the Chief Minister of Punjab in advancing minority welfare; and calls on the UK Government to raise this matter with Pakistan and support the restoration of Ewing Hall to FCCU and a transparent, lawful conservation process.

That this House expresses concern at the forced takeover of Ewing Hall, part of Forman Christian College, Lahore, on 11 June 2026; notes that the University states Ewing Hall stands on land originally granted in 1915 for educational purposes and that the building was taken over, with FCCU told it...

That this House congratulates the AGEnda charity of North Down and Ards on the celebration of their 40th anniversary in the Borough; recognises the 4 decades of support the charity has given to older people in the community, allowing them to remain independent and connected; acknowledges the range of support the charity offers including good morning calls, linking older people with local activities, offers personalised home visits and support for carers; commends the commitment and compassion of the volunteer led service; highlights the importance of supporting the mental health and well being of the older generation through emotional and personal support; further recognises the vital work of this charity in uniting the community; and wishes them continued success and God's richest blessing in their future work.

That this House congratulates the AGEnda charity of North Down and Ards on the celebration of their 40th anniversary in the Borough; recognises the 4 decades of support the charity has given to older people in the community, allowing them to remain independent and connected; acknowledges the range of support...

That this House congratulates the Ballygowan Pipe Band on the celebration of their 80th anniversary with a parade on the evening of Saturday 30 May; recognises the continued local success and cultural impact of traditional pipe music; commends the Ballygowan Pipe band as one of six bands still playing the traditional Brian Bora pipes, continuing the preservation of a rare instrumental tradition; and wishes the Ballygowan Pipe Band continued success as they continue to promote and preserve traditional music for future generations.

That this House congratulates the Ballygowan Pipe Band on the celebration of their 80th anniversary with a parade on the evening of Saturday 30 May; recognises the continued local success and cultural impact of traditional pipe music; commends the Ballygowan Pipe band as one of six bands still playing the...

That this House congratulates the Strangford Lough Wildfowlers and Conservation Association on celebrating its 75th anniversary; recognises its pioneering history since its formation following the Wild Bird Protection Act 1950; praises its transformation into a premier regional force for habitat management, species protection, and legislative advocacy; commends its vital partnership with local authorities to manage the Kiltonga Nature Reserve in Newtownards, ensuring that members of the public and wild birds harmoniously co-exist; notes that its dedication to wildlife preservation has been recognized nationally by winning the prestigious BASC Stanley Duncan Trophy on three separate occasions; and applauds the Association for its seventy-five years of proof that sustainable country sports and community-driven environmental conservation can successfully safeguard Northern Ireland’s natural heritage.

That this House congratulates the Strangford Lough Wildfowlers and Conservation Association on celebrating its 75th anniversary; recognises its pioneering history since its formation following the Wild Bird Protection Act 1950; praises its transformation into a premier regional force for habitat management, species protection, and legislative advocacy; commends its vital partnership...

That this House congratulates the Year 8 boys’ football team from Glastry College, Ballyhalbert, on winning the North Down Premier League Championship; applauds the squad for completing a flawless, undefeated league campaign; recognises their immense determination in securing a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Bangor Academy in a thrilling league final at Clandeboye Park; commends the team's coaches, staff, and families for their unwavering support and guidance throughout the season; notes that this prestigious regional achievement highlights the exceptional sporting talent and team spirit nurtured within the school; and wishes these talented young athletes continued success in both their academic and sporting futures as they progress through the college.

That this House congratulates the Year 8 boys’ football team from Glastry College, Ballyhalbert, on winning the North Down Premier League Championship; applauds the squad for completing a flawless, undefeated league campaign; recognises their immense determination in securing a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Bangor Academy in a thrilling league final...

That this House celebrates the historic 70th anniversary of the Ards Community Hospital Ladies Committee; recognises the extraordinary milestone of seven decades of continuous, unwavering fundraising for healthcare services; commends the tireless dedication of the committee members, past and present, who have volunteered their time and energy to support patient care; notes the immense impact of their fundraising efforts, which have provided vital medical equipment, enhanced clinical facilities, and improved the comfort and well-being of countless patients and staff at Ards Community Hospital; acknowledges the deep gratitude felt by the residents of Newtownards and the wider Ards Peninsula for this legacy of care; and thanks the Committee for its exemplary community spirit and outstanding service to local healthcare since 1956, wishing them continued success as they sow into their local community and improve care for the whole community.

That this House celebrates the historic 70th anniversary of the Ards Community Hospital Ladies Committee; recognises the extraordinary milestone of seven decades of continuous, unwavering fundraising for healthcare services; commends the tireless dedication of the committee members, past and present, who have volunteered their time and energy to support patient...

That this House congratulates the congregation of Carrowdore and Ballyfrenis Presbyterian Church on the occasion of their 100th anniversary; commends the dedicated spiritual leadership of their minister, Reverend Andras Gilicze; pays tribute to the vital role the church plays across the Ards Peninsula through vibrant local initiatives, including the thriving Carrowdore Girls' Brigade; and expresses its sincere gratitude for the congregation's century-long commitment to supporting local families, nurturing young people, and spreading the love of God throughout the community.

That this House congratulates the congregation of Carrowdore and Ballyfrenis Presbyterian Church on the occasion of their 100th anniversary; commends the dedicated spiritual leadership of their minister, Reverend Andras Gilicze; pays tribute to the vital role the church plays across the Ards Peninsula through vibrant local initiatives, including the thriving...

That this House notes National Epilepsy Week 2026 running from 18 to 24 May; acknowledges the work of Epilepsy Action and other charities on improving outcomes for people with epilepsy and their families; further notes that around 630,000 people in the UK live with epilepsy; also notes that many people with epilepsy experience difficulties accessing timely and appropriate health services; notes that people with epilepsy continue to face significant barriers to participation in work, with only 44% of adults with epilepsy in employment; highlights that women with epilepsy face increased risks of complications and mortality during pregnancy and the postnatal period, with around one in three experiencing an increase in seizures during pregnancy; and therefore calls on Governments across the UK to increase awareness of epilepsy, improve access to healthcare and employment support, and address health inequalities faced by people living with the condition.

That this House notes National Epilepsy Week 2026 running from 18 to 24 May; acknowledges the work of Epilepsy Action and other charities on improving outcomes for people with epilepsy and their families; further notes that around 630,000 people in the UK live with epilepsy; also notes that many people...

That this House congratulates the 126th NI Millisle and Ballycopeland Presbyterian Church Girls’ Brigade on celebrating its 70th anniversary; notes that this significant milestone was marked by a weekend of celebrations, including a special display on Friday 24 April 2026 and a Service of Thanksgiving on Sunday 26 April 2026; further notes that the service was followed by a celebratory afternoon tea which brought together many past and present members and officers to share memories and memorabilia from the company’s seven decades of history; commends the dedicated leaders and volunteers who have committed their time to helping young girls in the Millisle area develop new skills and confidence; and recognises the company’s steadfast commitment to its motto of Seek, Serve and Follow Christ as it continues to play a vital role in the local community and the lives of young women.

That this House congratulates the 126th NI Millisle and Ballycopeland Presbyterian Church Girls’ Brigade on celebrating its 70th anniversary; notes that this significant milestone was marked by a weekend of celebrations, including a special display on Friday 24 April 2026 and a Service of Thanksgiving on Sunday 26 April 2026;...

That this House welcomes the announcement that Comber-based Eakin Healthcare has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2045; congratulates the company on having its climate action targets officially validated by the Science Based Targets initiative, aligning its strategy with a 1.5°C pathway; notes that this ambitious target is five years ahead of the UK national target; commends Eakin Healthcare on being ranked in the top 1% of global medical device manufacturers for climate action; further welcomes their interim 2030 targets to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 70% and source 100% renewable electricity; recognises the significant contribution of Northern Ireland manufacturing businesses to a sustainable, low-carbon future; and wishes them continued success in their world class efforts to make a difference to health and our environment.

That this House welcomes the announcement that Comber-based Eakin Healthcare has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2045; congratulates the company on having its climate action targets officially validated by the Science Based Targets initiative, aligning its strategy with a 1.5°C pathway; notes...

That this House notes with concern that skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in Northern Ireland, accounting for over 31 per cent of all cancer diagnoses; further notes that cases of malignant melanoma have quadrupled since the mid-1980s, with over 400 cases now diagnosed annually; expresses alarm that at least 11 people in Northern Ireland are diagnosed with skin cancer every day, totalling approximately 4,361 cases per year; observes that 34 per cent of the population rarely or never use sunscreen and that nearly half suffer from sunburn at least once a year; highlights the increased risk associated with the 27 per cent of residents who have used sunbeds; commends the work of the Care in the Sun campaign and community pharmacies in promoting UV awareness; and calls on the Government to support enhanced public health initiatives and education to encourage the use of SPF 30+ sunscreen and regular skin checks to combat this rising trend.

That this House notes with concern that skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in Northern Ireland, accounting for over 31 per cent of all cancer diagnoses; further notes that cases of malignant melanoma have quadrupled since the mid-1980s, with over 400 cases now diagnosed annually; expresses...

That this House notes that Friday 24 April 2026 marks Pyjamas for PanCan, an annual fundraising event organised by Pancreatic Cancer Action; recognises that pancreatic cancer remains the UK’s fifth biggest cancer killer, with approximately 11,100 people diagnosed annually; further notes with concern that every single day in the UK, 26 people die from the disease, often because it is diagnosed at an advanced stage where it is too late for life-saving treatment; commends the tireless work of Pancreatic Cancer Action in raising vital awareness of early symptoms to improve survival rates; celebrates the schools, workplaces, and community groups across the country participating in this event by swapping their usual attire for pyjamas and donating to the cause; acknowledges the impact of these funds in providing critical GP training and patient support services; and urges the Government to increase funding for early detection research and ensure faster diagnostic pathways to give all patients a better chance of survival.

That this House notes that Friday 24 April 2026 marks Pyjamas for PanCan, an annual fundraising event organised by Pancreatic Cancer Action; recognises that pancreatic cancer remains the UK’s fifth biggest cancer killer, with approximately 11,100 people diagnosed annually; further notes with concern that every single day in the UK,...