To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether (i) deprived; or (ii) rural, communities have access to funding to establish repair cafés.

My Department has supported the Northern Ireland Resources Network (NIRN) a representative body, working in partnership with DAERA, for reuse and repair in Northern Ireland. Carrier Bag Levy (CBL) funding has enabled NIRN to support a growing network of community-led organisations promoting inclusive and sustainable change.

NIRN have promoted the establishment of repair cafes through a range of communities within deprived, urban and rural communities which has included the first repair café to be held on Rathlin Island. NIRN provide support and guidance to all communities on steps to access funding to establish repair cafes and encourage collaborative support across their network.