AQW 5322/22-27

Mr John Blair
Alliance Party
South Antrim

Tabled Date: 27/10/2022
Answered On Date: 02/08/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW 26722/17-22, whether a location for the Connect2 hub, planned for the Antrim and Newtownabbey area, has been secured.

Answer:

Given the ongoing implementation of the Estate Review and the limited uptake of the Phase 1 Connect2 hubs, there are no current plans to invest in additional hubs. This would include the proposed hub in Newtownabbey.

The Civil Service has implemented a Hybrid Working policy which helps support regional balance by affording its workforce more choice about their working location allowing a mix of workplace, home, and remote working.

As a major employer, the Civil Service recognises the potential benefits of hybrid working in contributing to regional balance; therefore, hybrid working is available, where possible, for all employment opportunities offered by the Civil Service.