First and deputy First Ministers describe draft Programme for Government as 'ambitious' and 'realistic'

Speaking as the consultation was launched, First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “The draft Programme for Government sets out the Executive’s priorities to tackle the biggest issues facing workers, families and communities here. From cutting hospital waiting times, delivering affordable childcare, to providing more affordable housing, we are taking action to ensure our communities have access to the life opportunities they deserve.

“We must invest in and improve our public services, protect our environment, create jobs and grow a sustainable economy that works for everyone.

“This is an ambitious plan which is set against the very challenging financial backdrop. But this is a mandate for delivery, and the Programme for Government gives everyone hope for a better future. That is why it is vital we hear your voices on the issues that are important to the public. Together, we can prioritise the issues that matter most and make this an even better place, now and for generations to come.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said while the Executive knows there are challenges, she said there are also opportunities.

"With our plan, we have a way forward. It provides a road map for people, organisations and departments," she said.

"The programme for government provides a basis for transformational change and the things that really matter. I look forward to us, the Executive and this Assembly working together to make a real difference.

"The scale of the challenges we face requires new thinking and structures. A missions-based approach will help us to measure and prioritise our work. These missions are people, planet and prosperity and they are underpinned by a cross cutting commitment to peace."

Ms Little-Pengelly said the Executive will track performance regularly and publish annual reports on progress.

"We are determined to deliver for the public," she added.

She urged the public to give their views in the consultation.

Northern Ireland's deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly has described Stormont's programme for government as outlining a "bold ambition for Northern Ireland".

She said following unanimous agreement to the draft programme for government by the Executive last Thursday, she and First Minister Michelle O'Neill announce that a public consultation is being launched today.

"It is different from what has been attempted in the past," she told MLAs.

"It is reflective of the realities we face today but is also ambitious for the future. It is also realistic about the financial position we find ourselves in and the shortened mandate in which we operate. We make no apology for being ambitious, we want to build on our reputation as a great place to live, work, study, invest and visit."

She said the aim is to "change the lives of our people and communities for the better".

She said the programme for government contains nine priorities, which are the immediate priorities they will work to during the remainder of the mandate.

These include to grow a globally competitive and sustainable economy, deliver more affordable childcare, cut health waiting lists, ending violence against women and girls, better support for children and young people with special educational needs, providing more social affordable and sustainable housing, safer communities and protecting Lough Neagh and the environment as well as the reform and transformation of public services.