To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the establishment of the Maternity and Neonatal Partnership, including (i) the number of times the Partnership has met, since October 2024; and (ii) the membership of the Partnership.

There is a funding requirement associated with establishing a Maternity and Neonatal Partnership. As you are aware, my Department is currently facing a significant funding deficit. While it has not been possible to allocate all of the additional funding originally requested to establish this Partnership, I have asked my officials to develop a scaled-back, more affordable option.

(i) I have been advised that this new partnership will be established in the coming weeks.

(ii) Membership of the Partnership will include representation from HSC Trust, DoH Professional and Policy leads, the Public Health Agency, Clinical, Nursing, Midwifery and AHP leads and Service Users representation. Membership will be kept under review and refreshed as required.