To ask the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail what consideration has been given to the introduction of mechanisms to screen all new policies for their potential impact on levels of poverty.

Tackling poverty and disadvantage is highlighted as one of our priorities within Programme for Government 2008-2011 and as a theme that cuts across Departmental boundaries.

Although there are no specific mechanisms for screening new policies for their potential impact on poverty, Departments are required in line with Public Expenditure guidelines, and do so routinely, to use data and research available on poverty when screening new policies as an integral part of the appraisal process. This helps ensure that resources and efforts are targeted towards those in need and that tackling poverty and disadvantage is afforded suitable priority within Departmental public expenditure plans.