The impending reform of NI's welfare reform will see people 'fully supported' as changes to the system are introduced here.

Speaking at an information session for political representatives at Stormont's Long Gallery, Social Security Minister, Nelson McCausland, reassured his audience that though major changes to the welfare system are underway, those who are entitled to claim benefits will be supported through every step of the process.

The DUP Minister said: "People will have heard that there are changes happening to the welfare system and that there are bigger changes ahead. This can be a worrying time for people but it's important they are reassured that they will be supported at every step in the process.

"Already in Northern Ireland, extra steps have been put in place for customers going through the Incapacity Benefit reassessment journey.

"A dedicated Customer Advice & Support Team has been set up to provide disallowed customers with help, support and expert advice in the options available to them," he added.

Minister McCausland also added that the Social Security Agency is also overseeing a slower ramp-up process than that being operated in Great Britain, to ensure that the correct processes are in place and fully tested before full reassessment capacity is reached.

"The benefit system as it stands needs to be changed. We need to reduce benefit dependency whilst ensuring that those who are most in need of support receive it.

"There are people in Northern Ireland trapped in poverty and worklessness, often over several generations. This cannot be ignored and must be addressed.

"Tackling these issues is a top priority for my Department," he said.

He also welcomed the findings of an independent report by Occupational Health specialist, Professor Malcolm Harrington, which praised the Northern Ireland handling of the Work Capability Assessment (WCA) process, Minister McCausland said: "In keeping with my commitment to ensure that everyone is supported through the changes to the welfare system, it is reassuring to see that the independent report, conducted by Professor Harrington for Northern Ireland, has praised the Social Security Agency for their handling of assessments which could, for some people, be a stressful time.

"I am reassured to note Professor Harrington's recognition of the high standard of decision making in Northern Ireland and the structures we have in place to monitor decision making performance so that all those involved in the welfare reform process are supported through this.

"My Department will continue to review the WCA and to make changes where necessary to ensure that our high standards of support continue."

He added: "We cannot give any guarantees about the pace of economic recovery. We can however, give an assurance that at the Department for Social Development we will continue to place the customer at the forefront of our priorities as we move forward into a sustainable welfare system suitable for the 21st century."

(BMcC/GK)