<p>Social Security in Northern Ireland is a devolved matter and the Northern Ireland Assembly is currently considering a separate Northern Ireland Welfare Reform Bill.</p><p>Should the Northern Ireland Executive decide not to implement the welfare reform agenda, this would have a number of implications—both financial and operational.</p><p>It is now a matter for the Northern Ireland Executive to decide what course of action they wish to take. However, I can confirm that my officials and I will continue to work closely with the Department for Social Development.</p>