Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 31950/22-27 and AQW 32366/22-27, for her assessment on whether NI Water’s whistleblowing policy is aligned with the Northern Ireland Civil Service Raising a Concern Policy Framework.
Minister for Infrastructure: The issue you have raised is an operational matter for NI Water; however, I have sought the required information:
NI Water has assured my department that the NI Water Speak Up – Raising a Concern (Whistleblowing) Policy was developed in line with legislation and best practice guidance in terms of the Public Interest Disclosure Order (Northern Ireland) and Northern Ireland Audit Office guidance.
NI Water has further advised that the policy is aligned with the NICS policy requirements and it was reviewed and approved by the NI Water Audit Committee at its meeting on 19 September 2025. The NICS Raising a Concern Policy Framework was considered as part of this standard review and the NI Water Audit Committee was informed of any amendments made to align the NI Water Speak Up – Raising a Concern (Whistleblowing) Policy with the NICS Raising a Concern Policy Framework. The NI Water Audit Committee informs the NI Water Board of its activities.
The policy is also reviewed when there are any changes in whistleblowing legislation or guidance. In addition, it is NI Water’s internal practice to review the policy every two years. This is rooted in good practice and is not a legislative requirement.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com.
Making direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.
ENDS
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