Story perspectives

Northern Ireland Health Minister Suspends Puberty Blocker Trial Amid Pressure

2/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mike Nesbitt, Northern Ireland health minister, suspended participation in a UK-wide puberty blocker trial after regulatory approval.
He said he would await the legal outcome before consulting with colleagues.
The trial aims to recruit around 226 young people questioning their gender identity.
The Alliance accused Nesbitt of yielding to political pressure rather than scientific evidence.
Green leader Mal O’Hara condemned the decision as a betrayal of LGBTQ rights.

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Story summary

Mike Nesbitt, Northern Ireland health minister, suspended participation in a UK-wide puberty blocker trial after regulatory approval.
He said he would await the legal outcome before consulting with colleagues.
The trial aims to recruit around 226 young people questioning their gender identity.
The Alliance accused Nesbitt of yielding to political pressure rather than scientific evidence.
Green leader Mal O’Hara condemned the decision as a betrayal of LGBTQ rights.