To ask the Minister of Health what work he has proposed, on a cross-departmental basis, to improve air quality and, consequently, health outcomes.

As outlined in response to AQW 5627/22-27, air quality is the lead responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).

As set out previously, the Executive’s overarching strategic framework for Public Health, Making Life Better (MLB), recognises that health and wellbeing is influenced by many factors, including the wider physical environment. Numerous studies point to the physical and mental health benefits of access to green spaces and better air quality. MLB includes a commitment to protect and promote good health and wellbeing through working collaboratively to improve air quality to achieve objectives and targets established to protect health.

An example of collaboration to date includes work with colleagues in DAERA to ensure that targeted effective air quality advice is issued to the general public. The advice sets out steps which individuals can take to minimise their exposure to pollutants, or to reduce or alleviate any resultant symptoms. This advice is available on the NI Direct website: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/air-pollution-and-health. The advice also includes a link to DAERA’s air quality website (www.airqualityni.co.uk) where members of the public can find out current or forecast air pollution levels in their area.

Going forward, my Department will continue to seek opportunities for collaborative working to help address this important issue.