Last month, he brought a motion to Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council calling on the council to recognise the urgent need to end the HIV epidemic both in Northern Ireland and around the world, and that easy access for all to high-quality, lifesaving treatment, as well as enhanced prevention and care and support services, will be essential to achieving this.
The motion was passed by the Corporate Services Committee on Wednesday night (13 November).
Cllr Harpur has said: “Combatting HIV is more than an issue of public health. It is a matter of dignity, equality, and the right to live a life free from stigma.
“Whilst medical advancements in HIV treatment and prevention have transformed the outlook for people living with the virus, we are still facing a significant challenge. HIV stigma continues to exist, discouraging many from getting tested or seeking treatment, as well as myths and misconceptions which only serve to further marginalise people.
“An integrated approach to healthcare is needed, and combining HIV services with treatment for other related conditions like tuberculosis, viral hepatitis, and sexual and mental health issues, as promoted by the HIV Fast Track Cities initiative, could see real progress in how we combat all these conditions.
“The clock is ticking, and it’s time for action. I’m incredibly thankful to the other councillors that supported this motion and ensured it passed, and I’m glad that our council will be playing its part in ending the HIV epidemic once and for all.”
Jacquie Richardson, Chief Executive of Positive Life NI, added: “Positive Life NI is pleased that Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has joined the Fast-Track Cities initiative alongside Belfast and Derry City & Strabane. With some of the UK’s lowest rates of new HIV diagnoses, Northern Ireland is well-placed to achieve zero new cases.
“We thank Cllr Jamie Harpur for bringing this important motion forward. This pledge is a significant step, and we look forward to working with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to make this goal a reality. We encourage other councils to support this vital initiative.”