Communities Minister Gordon Lyons says a £60 million decrease in benefit fraud over the past year demonstrates that his zero-tolerance stance is having an effect.

Figures in the Department for Communities' annual accounts, laid before the Assembly on 1 July, show estimated benefit fraud dropped to £170.9 million in 2025 from £233 million in 2024. That equates to 1.7% of total benefit expenditure, down from 2.5% the previous year.

Public reports of suspected fraud rose by 25% compared with the same period last year.

Minister Lyons said: "I make no apology for taking a zero-tolerance approach to benefit fraud.

"Fraud is not a victimless crime. Individuals who cheat the system are taking support from those who need it most – family, friends and neighbours. "Rates of fraud, however, remain too high and we can't be complacent. While the reduction in fraud and error is a welcome development, it would be imprudent to expect this trend to continue without sustained efforts and investment into the Department's counter fraud and error activity.

"Last year, I announced the reintroduction of the practice of naming those who have been convicted of benefit fraud. This level of transparency is crucial in helping to deter those who may consider committing fraud and demonstrates my unstinting commitment to protect resources intended for those in genuine need."

He also confirmed discussions are under way with HM Treasury on potentially allowing the Executive to share in savings achieved by tackling benefit fraud and error.

The Minister said: "I will continue to seek Executive support for the investment required which will allow us to reinvest the share of savings generated to programmes that support people with barriers to employment, particularly those with disabilities or health conditions.

"This is a key priority for me; it aligns with Programme for Government goals to reduce economic inactivity, tackle poverty and social exclusion, and support inclusive economic growth across Northern Ireland."