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The UK Government has provided the Northern Ireland Executive with an additional 拢300 million to support people, businesses and public services affected by coronavirus.

This funding brings the total allocated through the Barnett formula to the Northern Ireland Executive since the start of the pandemic to 拢3.3 billion.

In recognition of the exceptional circumstances and in response to calls for flexibility, the Northern Ireland Executive will be able to carry over any of the 拢300 million not spent this year into the 2021/22 financial year on top of their existing tools to transfer funding between years.

Chief Secretary to the Treasury Steve Barclay said:

鈥淯K Treasury schemes such as furlough, support for the self-employed and business loans have helped to protect jobs and livelihoods across Northern Ireland.

鈥淏ut we recognise that the Northern Ireland Executive also has a vital role to play, which is why we are continuing to give them the resources and flexibility they need to support people and businesses through this pandemic.

鈥淚 would urge the Executive to use this additional 拢300 million to help those most in need in Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said:

鈥淭he UK Government has stood side by side with people and businesses across Northern Ireland throughout the coronavirus pandemic - shielding them from its worst effects.

鈥淭he Northern Ireland Executive has received unprecedented levels of funding from the UK Government this year and this additional money, which can be carried over into the next financial year, will give the Executive the certainty and flexibility to deliver on its priorities for the benefit of all in Northern Ireland.鈥�

Following the previous update on 24 December, this is expected to be the final update for 2020-21 as part of the process for finalising departmental funding at Supplementary Estimates.