To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what further information or developments would require her to review her decision not to provide a bespoke financial assistance scheme for the haulage sector.

As previously explained in AQW 10042/17-22 my officials sought evidence from a range of sources before I came to my decision that there was insufficient grounds to show exceptional circumstances to support a Financial support scheme for the Haulage sector in Northern Ireland.

The evidence included information from the DAERA and Economy Ministers, assessments from the Department for Transport, Industry trackers, and direct engagement with industry representatives. From this evidence it was apparent that the industry is diverse and has been affected in different ways with some sectors being harder hit than others, however the assessment was that the proof of Exceptional Circumstance required for Determination and Designation under the Financial Assistance (Northern Ireland) Act 2009 was not there. DfT is looking at specific sectors which may need direct help and my Department will work closely with them on this issue.

I will, of course, keep this matter under review and if you have any evidence of widespread hardship in the haulage industry please do not hesitate to share that information with my Department.