To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline what barriers her Department has identified that prevent young people, not in education, employment or training, from accessing education, employment or training.

The reported increase of young people here not in education, employment or training is of significant concern to me. This is a complex issue, involving a diverse range of young people aged between 16 and 24 with multiple factors at play. I have asked my officials to consider the factors associated with the increase, for example the increasing incidence of poor mental health which could be contributing to this worrying trend. However, identifying and addressing the barriers will require a holistic response from across the Executive, and I am committed to working with my Executive colleagues to ensure that all our young people can fully participate and achieve their potential.