AQW 46777/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 21/05/2026
Answered On Date: 04/06/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Finance whether he has given any consideration to establishing (i) a cross-departmental working group; or (ii) an external advisory group, on digital inclusion.

Answer:

My Department recognises the potential for aligning initiatives in this area through a cross-departmental working group. We are presently evaluating possible synergies and will engage with relevant Departments to assess the feasibility of forming a cross-departmental working group.

The Department of Finance (DoF) Digital Inclusion Team participates in the Digital Assist Steering Group, chaired by Business in the Community (BITC), to promote collaboration between government and private, voluntary, and community organisations when delivering services.