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<p>The Government is acutely aware of the broader pressures facing health services
in Northern Ireland and remains committed to supporting the restoration of the Executive
in Northern Ireland as soon as possible.</p><p> </p><p>As such, a locally elected,
accountable and effective devolved government is, and will remain, the right way to
address this issue. The Government stands ready to work with a restored Executive,
but we have a responsibility to ensure public services and management of public funds
can continue in its absence.</p><p> </p><p>As such, the Secretary of State for Northern
Ireland has introduced the Northern Ireland (Interim Arrangements) Bill to ensure
continued clarity on the powers for Northern Ireland Departments to maintain delivery
of public services. This will mean that decisions in crucial areas - such as to ensure
the maintenance of public services - can continue to be taken in the absence of an
Executive.</p>
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