The ban only applies to trans youth experiencing gender dysphoria, young cis people experiencing precocious puberty will still be able to access the drug.

Northern Ireland has permanently banned the sale or prescription of puberty blockers for individuals under 18, following a decision supported by all five Executive parties at Stormont. The ban, which was previously temporary, is now permanent and aligns with the ban in the rest of the UK.

Puberty blockers, which delay the release of hormones associated with puberty, are typically prescribed to young people experiencing gender dysphoria. In May, the UK’s Conservative government introduced an emergency ban preventing private and European providers from prescribing these drugs. That temporary measure was extended to Northern Ireland in August and has now been made indefinite.

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly described the decision as “the right approach, informed by medical and scientific advice.” However, the decision has sparked criticism. Green Party Councillor Anthony Flynn accused the Executive of neglecting the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting a long-standing failure to deliver a promised equality strategy. “Since 2007, the Executive has pledged a strategy to address inequalities faced by our community, but it has never been implemented,” Flynn said. He also called for transparency, urging the government to release the evidence underpinning the decision. Flynn expressed disappointment with Sinn Féin and the Alliance Party, accusing them of inaction despite their support for LGBTQ+ rights.

The ban follows findings from the Cass Review, led by paediatrician Dr. Hilary Cass, which highlighted gaps in evidence regarding the safety and long-term impact of puberty blockers. Children already on the NHS’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services Gender Identity Service endocrine pathway before March 2020 will continue to receive treatment, and the drugs remain available for other medical purposes, such as managing early-onset puberty.

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