Robin Swann

Robert Samuel Swann, was born on 24 September 1971 in Kells, County Antrim.{{Belfast Gazette |date=22 July 2024 |issue=8702 |page=562}}{{Who's Who |title=Swann, Robert Samuel, (Robin) |year=2023 |id=U255612 |doi=10.1093/ww/9780199540884.013.U255612}} His mother Ida was a hospital cleaner and his father Brian was a plumber, and he has a younger brother, David.{{Cite news |last=McNeilly |first=Claire |date=2018-01-15 |title=Robin Swann: 'When I first got elected, I was called a political pigmy... people keep referring to my lack of height, but there isn't anything I can do about that so I'm not bothered' |url=https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/life/features/robin-swann-when-i-first-got-elected-i-was-called-a-political-pigmy-people-keep-referring-to-my-lack-of-height-but-there-isnt-anything-i-can-do-about-that-so-im-not-bothered/36483060.html |access-date=2024-02-06 |work=Belfast Telegraph |language=en-GB}}

Swann contracted asthma as a child, having been "born in an old farmhouse riddled with damp". The family moved to a housing executive house in Kells when he was aged two. Swann joined the Young Farmers' Clubs of Ulster at the age of 12.

Swann attended Kells and Connor Primary, then Ballymena Academy, after which he worked at McQuillan Meats from 1989 to 1993. He did not attend university, although he did later gain a Bachelor of Science degree and a professional certificate in management from the Open University. Swann worked for SGS, a multinational inspection and testing company based in Switzerland, before entering politics.

Swann was first elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly in 2011 in the North Antrim constituency.{{Cite news |date=2024-02-03 |title=Introducing the new Northern Ireland Executive |url=https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/politics/introducing-the-new-northern-ireland-executive/a1103450260.html |access-date=2024-02-04 |work=BelfastTelegraph.co.uk |language=en-GB |issn=0307-1235}} Swann successfully defended his seat in the 2016 Assembly election and at the snap election in March 2017, where he was the first unionist elected in North Antrim.{{cite web|url=http://www.ark.ac.uk/elections/ana.htm|title=North Antrim|website=www.ark.ac.uk}} Swann was elected Ulster Unionist leader in April 2017; he resigned in November 2019 in order to spend more time with his family.

Swann came second in the North Antrim constituency in the 2019 Westminster election, with double the UUP vote of the previous election.

In the 2022 Assembly election Swann went on to top the North Antrim poll.{{cite web|url=https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/politics/election-2022-swann-tops-the-poll-in-north-antrim-3684458|title=Election 2022: Swann tops the poll in North Antrim }} His increased vote was attributed to his work as health minister during the COVID-19 pandemic. Swann credited his success to the work of those in the health service.{{cite web |last1=McCambridge |first1=Jonathan |date=6 May 2022 |title=Robin Swann credits North Antrim Assembly Election poll-topping success to work of the health service |url=https://www.irishnews.com/paywall/tsb/irishnews/irishnews/irishnews//news/assemblyelection/2022/05/06/news/robin-swann-credits-north-antrim-assembly-election-poll-topping-success-to-work-of-the-health-service-2663084/content.html |website=The Irish News |access-date=7 May 2022}}

On 1 February 2024, Swann was announced as the UUP's parliamentary candidate for South Antrim at the 2024 United Kingdom general election, a target seat for the UUP.{{Cite web |date=2024-01-26 |title=Robin Swann to switch constituencies in bid to unseat DUP MP |url=https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/robin-swann-to-switch-constituencies-in-bid-to-unseat-dup-mp-1580271.html |access-date=2024-02-05 |website=BreakingNews.ie |language=en}} Swann confirmed that he would continue his Westminster campaign on 8 February 2024, despite his appointment as Health Minister.{{Cite news |date=2024-02-08 |title=Robin Swann: 'I can be MP candidate and health minister' |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-68234960 |access-date=2024-02-08 |work=BBC News |language=en-GB}}

With 55.92% voter turnout in South Antrim, Swann won the seat for the UUP with a total vote of 16,311 with incumbent Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) MP Paul Girvan trailing in his wake with 8,799 votes.{{Cite web |last=Deeney |first=Niall |date=2024-07-05 |title=South Antrim election 2024 results in full |url=https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/newry-armagh-election-results-breaking-29478539 |access-date=2024-07-06 |website=Belfast Live |language=en}}

In 2020, Swann was appointed Minister of Health and presided over the response of the Northern Ireland Executive to the COVID-19 Pandemic.{{cite press release |url=https://www.rcn.org.uk/news-and-events/Press-Releases/minister |title= New Health Minister appointed in Northern Ireland }}

Swann introduced the Organ and Tissue Donation (Deemed Consent) Bill, or "Dáithí's Law" in the Assembly in 2021.{{Cite news |title='Dáithí's Law shouldn't be in political stand-off' |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-northern-ireland-64601527 |access-date=2024-02-06 |work=BBC News |language=en-GB}} It was named after six-year-old Dáithí Mac Gabhann from Belfast, who needs a heart transplant. The legislation came into effect on 1 June 2023 and introduced an opt-out system, meaning people would automatically become donors unless they stated otherwise.{{Cite web |date=2022-02-08 |title=Health Minister welcomes 'Dáithí's Law' |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-welcomes-daithis-law |access-date=2024-02-06 |website=Health |language=en}}

On 2 February 2022 a 44-year-old man was charged with threatening to kill Swann, he was later accused of harassment and improper use of a telecommunications network.{{Cite news|title=Man charged with threatening to kill Northern Ireland health minister|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-40798644.html|last=Young|first=David|date=2022-02-02|access-date=2022-02-02|work=Irish Examiner|agency=PA}}

Swann ceased to be Minister for Health on 27 October 2022 following the collapse of power-sharing at the Northern Ireland Executive.

The High Court dismissed a £100m lawsuit against NI politicians over COVID-19 regulations in December 2022.{{Cite web|url=https://www.judiciaryni.uk/judicial-decisions/2022-nimaster-8 |title=2022 NI Master 8|date=6 December 2022 |id=[https://m.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/courts/high-court-to-dismiss-100m-lawsuit-against-ni-politicians-over-covid-19-regulations-42199673.html Belfast Telegraph]}} Swann has been called as a participant in the UK Covid Inquiry{{Cite web|url=https://covid19.public-inquiry.uk/ |title=UK Covid-19 Inquiry}} at the hearing to Module 1 he said "Failed reforms hindered NI Covid response."{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-66114512.amp |title=Covid inquiry: Failed reforms hindered NI Covid response, says Swann|date=6 July 2023 }}

In August 2023, Swann welcomed progress that had been made on clamping down on some of the most expensive nursing agency costs in the local health service in Northern Ireland.{{Cite web |title=Swann Welcomes Progress on Tackling Health Agency Costs |url=https://www.uup.org/swann_welcomes_progress_on_tackling_health_agency_costs |access-date=2023-08-21 |website=UUP Live |language=en}}

On 3 February 2024, Swann was reappointed Minister for Health following the formation of the Executive of the 7th Northern Ireland Assembly. Swann's appointment revealed a split within the UUP,{{Cite web |date=2024-02-05 |title=Robin Swann may be withdrawn as UUP Westminster candidate after Doug Beattie reveals party split over health portfolio |url=https://www.irishnews.com/news/northern-ireland/overspilled-passion-triggered-uup-mlas-criticism-of-party-decision-to-appoint-robin-swann-as-health-minister-5VCG67523ZGSNJUYWSW5R5P2PI/ |access-date=2024-02-06 |website=The Irish News |language=en}} with Andy Allen MLA criticising his return as Swann was already confirmed as a Westminster candidate. Allen argued that "we need a health minister with their full focus on the task at hand, not one eye on WM (Westminster).”{{Cite news |date=2024-02-04 |title=Robin Swann: Stormont needs a health minister focused on task, not with one eye on Westminster says UUP colleague Andy Allen |url=https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/health/stormont-needs-a-health-minister-focused-on-task-not-with-one-eye-on-westminster-says-uup-colleague/a1564842822.html |access-date=2024-02-05 |work=BelfastTelegraph.co.uk |language=en-GB |issn=0307-1235}} Following his appointment, Swann wrote to trade unions inviting them to early discussions.

File:Robin_Swann_2024.jpg

On 5 February 2024, he visited the Ulster Hospital and reiterated his intention to secure pay settlements for staff and resolve current industrial action.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-04 |title=Health Minister prioritises pay talks |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-prioritises-pay-talks |access-date=2024-02-05 |website=Health |language=en}}

Swann paid tribute to staff in Northern Ireland's dedicated Sexual Assault Referral Centre at an event marking 10 years since its opening on 7 February 2024. Also on 7 February 2024, Swann asked officials to look “urgently” at planned bed cuts at the Northern Ireland Children's Hospice.{{Cite news |last=McCambridge |first=Jonathan |date=7 February 2024 |title=Northern Ireland Health Minister Robin Swann asks officials to look urgently at plans to reduce beds at Northern Ireland Children's Hospice |url=https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/politics/northern-ireland-health-minister-robin-swann-asks-officials-to-look-urgently-at-plans-to-reduce-beds-at-northern-ireland-childrens-hospice-4509636}}

On 9 February 2024, Swann confirmed that he will reinstate £85,000 funding for the Children's Hospice, in a move which defined the beginning of his tenure.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-09 |title=Statement by Health Minister Robin Swann on NI Children's Hospice |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/statement-by-health-minister-robin-swann-ni-childrens-hospice |access-date=2024-02-09 |website=Health |language=en}}

In the Assembly, on 13 February 2024, Swann revealed that a Women's Health Action Plan is being developed by the health department, paving the way for a longer-term comprehensive Women's Health Strategy.

On 15 February 2024, Swann announced that publicly funded IVF treatment will increase to one full cycle for eligible women.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-14 |title=Increase in funded IVF provision |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/increase-funded-ivf-provision |access-date=2024-02-15 |website=Health |language=en}}

On 20 February 2024, Swann wrote to the BMA Junior Doctors Committee in relation to planned industrial action next month.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-20 |title=Health Minister writes to the BMA Junior Doctors Committee |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-writes-bma-junior-doctors-committee |access-date=2024-02-21 |website=Health |language=en}} He also emphasised that hospital waiting lists cannot be tackled in isolation from other issues facing the health service, remarking that “piecemeal interventions” alone will not be sufficient.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-20 |title=Swann sets out waiting list task |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/swann-sets-out-waiting-list-task |access-date=2024-03-13 |website=Health |language=en}}

Swann visited the Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke (NICHS) team at the Junction in Antrim on 23 February 2024 as part of NICHS Heart Month.{{Cite web |title=Health Minister shows heart for the health of Antrim |url=https://nichs.org.uk/about-us/news/health-minister-shows-heart-for-the-health-of-antrim |access-date=2024-03-13 |website=NICHS |language=en}}

On 26 February 2024, Swann welcomed the decision by health service trade unions to ballot members on a proposed pay settlement for 2023–24. He stated that "this is a positive step..." towards his key priority of resolving pay disputes.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-26 |title=Swann welcomes 'positive step forward' on pay settlement |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/swann-welcomes-positive-step-forward-pay-settlement-0 |access-date=2024-03-13 |website=Health |language=en}} On the same day, Swann praised GPs for committing to student training.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-26 |title=Health Minister praises GPs for commitment to student training |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-praises-gps-commitment-student-training |access-date=2024-03-13 |website=Health |language=en}}

In a keynote speech, Swann warned of an “extremely difficult and worsening” financial position for health and social care services on 27 February 2024. He remarked that "waiting lists are beyond unacceptable. They cry out for action and I will pursue every feasible opportunity to improve the situation."{{Cite web |date=2024-02-27 |title=A year of 'damage limitation' - Swann |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/year-damage-limitation-swann |access-date=2024-03-13 |website=Health |language=en}}

On 29 February 2024, Swann and the Executive Office Junior Ministers Pam Cameron and Aisling Reilly joined Regional Trauma Network representatives at Belfast Metropolitan College's Titanic Quarter Campus for the ‘Our Journey So Far’ knowledge and networking event.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-29 |title=Work of Regional Trauma Network marked by Ministers |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/work-regional-trauma-network-marked-by-ministers |access-date=2024-03-13 |website=Health |language=en}} Swann also said that new figures show the scale of the waiting list crisis and demonstrate the need for multi-year funding.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-29 |title=Health Minister comments on hospital waiting lists |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-comments-hospital-waiting-lists |access-date=2024-03-13 |website=Health |language=en}}

File:Robin Swann World Down Syndrome Day.jpg

On 4 March 2024, Swann launched the HSC Raising a Concern in the Public Interest (Whistleblowing) Framework & Model Policy. He said that it will facilitate the implementation of policies and procedures within the HSC to fully support staff in raising concerns.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-01 |title=Minister announces launch of HSC Raising a Concern in the Public Interest (Whistleblowing) Framework and Model Policy |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/minister-announces-launch-hsc-raising-concern-public-interest-whistleblowing-framework-and-model |access-date=2024-03-13 |website=Health |language=en}} He also confirmed a one-year extension of the Department of Health's contract with Nexus for specialist counselling services for victims of sexual abuse.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-04 |title=Nexus contract extended |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/nexus-contract-extended |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=Health |language=en}}

Swann confirmed that Northern Ireland will be included in new transformational laws to tackle youth smoking and vaping on 5 March 2024.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-05 |title=NI to be included in new laws to tackle youth smoking and vaping |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/ni-be-included-new-laws-tackle-youth-smoking-and-vaping |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=Health |language=en}} He also announced support from the Department of Health for a large scale public listening exercise on women's health.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-05 |title=Minister announces public listening exercise on women's health |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/minister-announces-public-listening-exercise-womens-health |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=Health |language=en}}

On 11 March 2024, Swann launched the Bereaved NI website, offering support for anyone experiencing bereavement.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-11 |title=Northern Ireland bereavement support website launched |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/northern-ireland-bereavement-support-website-launched |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=Health |language=en}}

Swann officially opened a newly renovated GP practice in County Antrim, Toome Surgery, following a £600,000 investment from the Department of Health on 14 March 2024.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-14 |title=Patients benefit from £600,000 investment in Toome Surgery |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/patients-benefit-ps600000-investment-toome-surgery |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=Health |language=en}} He also addressed the Northern Ireland Assembly Health Committee, stating that an 'inadequate budget will have real-life consequences.'{{Cite web |date=2024-03-14 |title=Swann sets out priorities to Health Committee |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/swann-sets-out-priorities-health-committee |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=Health |language=en}}

On 21 March 2024, Swann praised the innovation and teamwork of staff at the Elective Overnight Stay Centre in Belfast's Mater Hospital.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-21 |title=Health Minister praises Mater Hospital's innovative elective care teams |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-praises-mater-hospitals-innovative-elective-care-teams |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=Health |language=en}}

Swann unveiled a £70m support package for social care providers and hospices on 22 March 2024.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-22 |title=£70m support package unveiled |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/ps70m-support-package-unveiled |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=Health |language=en}}

On 26 March 2024, Swann sought a deferral on hospital car parking charges legislation.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-26 |title=Deferral sought on car parking charges legislation |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/deferral-sought-car-parking-charges-legislation |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=Health |language=en}}

Swann announced a £9.2m investment in dental access initiatives for 2024/25 on 27 March 2024. The investment is aimed at bolstering support for dental practices and protecting public access to health service dental care.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-27 |title=Swann invests £9m in dental access |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/swann-invests-ps9m-dental-access |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=Health |language=en}}

On 28 March 2024, Swann praised a new ambulatory unit at Causeway Hospital that will help reduce admission and ED attendances.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-28 |title=New unit at Causeway Hospital to help reduce admissions and attendances at Emergency Departments |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/new-unit-causeway-hospital-help-reduce-admissions-and-attendances-emergency-departments |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=Health |language=en}}

Swann praised the innovative thinking at the Centre for Genomic Medicine and highlighted the need to address genomic healthcare challenges while on a visit on 29 March 2024.{{Cite web |date=2024-03-28 |title=Minister hails pioneering Ulster University research in Genomic Medicine |url=https://www.ulster.ac.uk/news/2024/march/minister-hails-pioneering-ulster-university-research-in-genomic-medicine |access-date=2024-04-21 |website=www.ulster.ac.uk |language=en-GB}}

Swann announced on 10 April 2024 that vasectomy services in Northern Ireland will be transferred from secondary care to primary care.{{Cite web |date=2024-04-09 |title=Vasectomy services switching to primary care |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/vasectomy-services-switching-primary-care |access-date=2024-05-16 |website=Health |language=en}}

On 15 April 2024, Swann met with the All Party Group on Stroke. He said that "important progress" has been achieved on the Stroke Action Plan, but that "much more" remains.{{Cite web |date=2024-04-15 |title=Important progress achieved on stroke action plan – Swann |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/important-progress-achieved-stroke-action-plan-swann |access-date=2024-05-16 |website=Health |language=en}}

Swann welcomed a new Online Safety Hub for parents, carers, professionals and young people, funded by the Department of Health and developed by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) in partnership with Ineqe Safeguarding Group.{{Cite web |date=2024-04-16 |title=Launch of new hub to help keep children safe online |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/launch-new-hub-help-keep-children-safe-online |access-date=2024-05-16 |website=Health |language=en}}

On 21 April 2024, Swann announced his intention to step down as health minister before the Westminster election campaign.{{Cite web |last=Hunter |first=Simon |date=21 April 2024 |title=Robin Swann to step down as health minister before Westminster campaign |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-68865821 |access-date=21 April 2024 |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC}} He will be the candidate for South Antrim in the 2024 general election.{{Cite news |date=2024-01-26 |title=Robin Swann lined up for South Antrim election bid |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-68103945 |access-date=2024-04-22 |language=en-GB}}

Swann voted against the Northern Ireland budget on 24 April 2024, saying it was his duty to inform MLAs of the "incredibly serious consequences" of the budget, believing that there was not sufficient funding for the Department of Health.{{Cite news |date=2024-04-24 |title=Stormont budget: UUP votes against budget as other parties agree |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-68889278 |access-date=2024-04-26 |language=en-GB}} Swann added on 26 April 2024 that a "health service that is actually ravaged by millions of pounds worth of cuts is bad for people's health."{{Cite news |date=2024-04-26 |title=Stormont budget means 'people at risk of harm', Robin Swann says |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-68903616 |access-date=2024-04-26 |language=en-GB}} Swann has refused to rule out standing down early if the budget agreed by the Executive is passed in its current form.{{Cite web |date=2024-04-26 |title=Swann refuses to rule out resigning if budget is not changed |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/northern-ireland-uk-government-bbc-alliance-party-b2535240.html |access-date=2024-04-26 |website=The Independent |language=en}}

Swann praised Craigavon Area Hospital staff for their innovative work on 1 May 2024. He met teams working in the Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) service and the Post Anaesthetic Care Unit (PACU).{{Cite web |date=2024-05-01 |title=Innovative services bringing real benefit to patients – Swann |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/innovative-services-bringing-real-benefit-patients-swann |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=Health |language=en}} Swann also visited Rural Support where he met and had an open discussion with staff. He heard about the health needs and challenges facing those living in rural areas and the farming community.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1785730915139981523 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}} Swann had a comprehensive site tour of Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service's Learning and Development College in Cookstown.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1786015923691835849 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

On 2 May 2024, Swann visited a new GP-led service to improve lung health in the Armagh/Dungannon area.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1786045255701135684 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

Swann visited Donaghcloney GP surgery in County Down to meet practice staff and members of the GP Federation on 3 May 2024. He thanked the team for their commitment to providing vital Primary Care services to more than 4,500 patients in the local community.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1786397979311562796 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

On 5 May 2024, Swann praised the "compassion and dedication" of midwives. He paid tribute to the excellent care provided by midwives as he wished them a happy International Day of the Midwife.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1787029469909360759 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

Swann welcomed agreement on the General Medical Services contract with GPs for 2024/5 on 7 May 2024, stating that it is "very welcome news."{{Cite web |date=2024-05-06 |title=Swann welcomes 24/25 GP contract |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/swann-welcomes-2425-gp-contract |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=Health |language=en}} He also announced a new Strategic Plan for Community Pharmacy.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1787849827394494944 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

On 8 May 2024, Swann announced that health service and education training places will be maintained at the same level as 2023/24.{{Cite web |date=2024-05-08 |title=Minister announces training places |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/minister-announces-training-places-0 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=Health |language=en}} He also welcomed a new UK-wide plan to tackle antimicrobial resistance. The five-year National Action Plan aims to address AMR instances where standard treatments can become ineffective.{{Cite web |date=2024-05-08 |title=National Action Plan on antimicrobial resistance launched |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/national-action-plan-antimicrobial-resistance-launched |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=Health |language=en}}

Swann visited Antrim Fire Station to mark that all NIFRS Fire Stations have now been fitted with life-saving defibrillators on 10 May 2024.{{Cite web |last=Campbell |first=Brian |date=2024-05-10 |title=Life-saving defibrillators installed at every Fire Station in Northern Ireland |url=https://www.nifrs.org/life-saving-defibrillators-installed-at-every-fire-station-in-northern-ireland/ |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service |language=en-US}}

On 12 May 2024, Swann praised the "commitment and compassion" of nurses. He thanked nurses for their continued service and wished them a happy International Nurses Day.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1789558629567279186 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

Swann met with Fostering Network representatives on 13 May 2024 and welcomed the start of Foster Care Fortnight 2024.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1789913473553432879 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

On 15 May 2024, Swann launched a new electronic blood production and tracking system which will help enhance blood safety and quality.{{Cite web |date=2024-05-15 |title=Health Minister launches transformational blood production and tracking project |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-launches-transformational-blood-production-and-tracking-project |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=Health |language=en}} He also emphasised the importance of farm family health at the NI Agri-Rural Health Forum at the Balmoral Show. Swann praised the work of the Farm Family Health Checks and highlighted the importance of mental health support for rural communities.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1790773421158060242 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

Swann attended a showcasing event hosted by community networks in the Northern locality in partnership with the Public Health Agency. He heard about the great work being done in the area to help tackle health inequalities and improve the health and wellbeing of local communities.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1791095158152343927 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

On 20 May 2024, Swann reiterated an apology from the department following publication of the Infected Blood Inquiry report, stating that he is "deeply sorry."{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1792582219875209289 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

Swann held meetings with Department of Health and Social Care Minister for Public Health Andrea Leadsom and Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting on 21 May 2024. Discussions covered the growing budget and demand pressures facing health and social care services in NI.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1792844261110485177 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}} He also welcomed important progress in reducing the number of agency nurses, midwives and healthcare support workers in HSCNI. Swann said agency spend had been reduced by £19m in the last 12 months.{{Cite web |date=2024-05-21 |title=One year on: Minister welcomes agency progress |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/one-year-minister-welcomes-agency-progress |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=Health |language=en}} Swann also welcomed the motion to include Northern Ireland in the UK Tobacco and Vapes Bill passing in the NI Assembly.{{Cite web |date=2024-05-21 |title=Swann welcomes step towards a smoke free generation in Northern Ireland |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/swann-welcomes-step-towards-smoke-free-generation-northern-ireland |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=Health |language=en}}

On 22 May 2024, Swann welcomed the UK Government's announcement of further details on compensation arrangements for those infected and/or affected by contaminated blood.{{Cite web |date=2024-05-22 |title=Infected Blood compensation framework scheme |url=https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/infected-blood-compensation-framework-scheme |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=Health |language=en}}

Swann has published an updated Elective Care Framework (ECF) and the final report from the review into General Surgery on 24 May 2024.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/healthdpt/status/1794028929163882911 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

On 27 May 2024, UUP leader Doug Beattie wrote to Speaker Edwin Poots to notify him that Swann will resign as Health Minister at midnight on 29 May, after voting against the budget on the 28th. This followed the calling of the general election by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on 22 May.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/newsoncool/status/1795053614169207109 |access-date=2024-05-27 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}} Swann left office on 28 May 2024 at 11:29pm and was replaced by Mike Nesbitt.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/UTVNews/status/1795399012058841326?t=9Xqc_k3ALBKpuDAtET30dw&s=19 |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}

Swann is "5ft 3in-ish" tall.{{Cite web |date=2017-04-08 |title=Robin Swann becomes new UUP leader |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-politics-39533558 |access-date=2023-04-27 |website=BBC News |language=en-GB}} He and his wife Jennifer have a daughter and a son. Their son was born with a congenital heart defect; while in Birmingham, Swann recorded the events in a personal blog.{{cite web|url=http://fromthesideofahospitalcot.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-phone-call.html|title=The Journey Begins: The phone call|date=22 September 2013}}

He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and attends church "almost every week." Swann is a member of the Orange Order. https://www.irishnews.com/news/northern-ireland/robin-swann-who-is-northern-irelands-health-minister-4ZOVA2OJ4NA2DEEBITA4OMV3HA/

Swann has served as president and County Antrim Chairman of the Young Farmers' Clubs of Ulster. He has chaired the YFCU's National Executive and Rural Affairs Committees and has been Chairman of the Rural Youth Europe organisation.{{cite web|url=http://www.farmersguardian.com/european-chairman-delme-harries/19830.article|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110930190335/http://www.farmersguardian.com/european-chairman-delme-harries/19830.article|url-status=dead|archive-date=30 September 2011|title=European chairman Delme Harries|date=30 September 2011|work=Farmers Guardian}} A former member of Cromkill Pipe Band, Swann was elected a Honorary Vice President of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Northern Ireland.{{cite web|url=https://rspbani.org/officials/|title=Officials}} In 2023 Swann was elected Honorary President of the Farmers' Choir Northern Ireland.{{cite web|url=https://www.farminglife.com/business/annual-meeting-of-farmers-choir-4201736/|title=Farmers' Choir}}

As UUP leader, in May 2019 at the party's European election manifesto launch, Swann stated that a "no deal Brexit must be avoided."{{Cite web |date=2019-05-17 |title='Second unionist seat under threat' - UUP |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-48310963 |access-date=2024-02-06 |website=BBC News |language=en-GB}}

Swann has described himself as "pro-life and ... on record as such."{{Cite news |title=Abortion in Northern Ireland: Where do the parties stand? |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/abortion-in-northern-ireland-where-do-the-parties-stand-1.3522879 |access-date=2024-02-06 |newspaper=The Irish Times |language=en}} In 2021, Swann defended the delay to introducing full abortion services in Northern Ireland as he could not "set it up without support from the Stormont Executive."{{Cite news |date=2021-05-26 |title=Abortion in NI: Delays to introducing full services 'deeply troubling', court hears |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-57248241 |access-date=2024-02-06 |work=BBC News |language=en-GB}}

Swann was Awarded Politician of the Year 2022, by Civility in Politics, an award he shared with Chris Bryant MP.{{cite web|url=https://www.civilityinpolitics.org/news/congratulations-to-our-2022-awards-winners |title=Congratulations to Our 2022 Awards Winners }}

July 2023 Swann was elected an Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, fellowships are awarded annually to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to psychiatry. "Robin Swann was awarded for championing mental healthcare and working closely with psychiatrists in Northern Ireland to address the enormous treatment gap that still exists."{{cite web|url=https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/news-and-features/latest-news/detail/2023/10/27/ni-politician-robin-swann-receives-honorary-fellowship-from-the-royal-college-of-psychiatrists|title=NI politician Robin Swann receives Honorary Fellowship from the Royal College of Psychiatrists }}

{{Reflist}}

{{Commons category}}

• [http://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/mlas/details.aspx?&aff=13330&per=302&sel=2&ind=26&prv=0 Northern Ireland Assembly profile]
• [https://www.uup.org/robin_swann_mp Ulster Unionist Party profile]
• {{UK MP links |parliament=5319 |publicwhip=Robin_Swann |theywork=robin_swann}}

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| years = 9 May 2011 – 6 April 2012

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