Sinn Féin MLA Liz Kimmins has welcomed £350 million worth of funding for health which has been allocated by Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald. This means the majority of available funds will go to the health department.

The party’s health spokesperson said:

“Today’s announcement that £350 million will be going to the health department is welcome news.

“We have been calling for fairer funding from the British government to enable us to get on with transforming our health service, and although there is more work to be done, this is an important step forward.

“The health minister must now prioritise fair pay for workers, cutting waiting lists, improving respite services and GP access, as well as better funding for primary care including pharmacies and mental health services.

“Also, it’s vital that we see progress on the delivery of an all-island mother and baby unit to support women who are struggling with their mental health post-pregnancy.

“This is a significant piece of investment and underlines the Executive’s commitment to investing in our health service and ensuring it is accessible to all.”