To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department has taken, in the last two years, to raise awareness of health concerns that can come from burning toxic materials in bonfires.

Poor air quality is a key environmental risk to public health, as long-term exposure to air pollution can cause chronic conditions such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases as well as lung cancer, leading to reduced life expectancy.

Whilst my Department has not undertaken population-wide action over the last two years to raise awareness of health concerns that can come from burning toxic materials specifically in bonfires, officials in my Department work with the Department for Agriculture, the Environment and Rural Affairs who lead on air quality policy, to seek ways to improve air quality throughout Northern Ireland.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has a statutory role in promoting fire safety through the provision of public information and preventative guidance, which includes bonfire-related risks. There is also a dedicated bonfire section on the NIFRS website. The burning of tyres and other synthetic material is of particular concern due to the potential emission of harmful pollutants which may adversely impact air quality and respiratory health.

During incidents involving significant smoke or hazardous emissions, NIFRS may issue precautionary public safety advice, such as advising nearby residents to remain indoors and keep windows closed.

The Department also regularly engages with relevant statutory partners, including local councils, in relation to the protection of public health.