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, care and support services, will be essential to achieving this.

The motion will be heard by the Corporate Services Committee next month.

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.

“The numbers tell a stark story. Last year alone, there were 105 new HIV diagnoses in Northern Ireland, representing a 38% increase since 2021. This is not just a statistic; it is a clear call to action.

“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.

“HIV Fast Track Cities is an international initiative, signed by other UK cities, with a clear goal: to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. By signing up for it and adopting its principles, Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council can join the global effort to not only address HIV and the stigma attached, but to end it as a public health threat. The initiative promotes an integrated approach to healthcare, combining HIV services with treatment for other related conditions like tuberculosis, viral hepatitis, sexual and mental health issues.

“The clock is ticking, and we must act now. I urge all parties to join us in supporting this motion, and help our council play its part in ending the HIV epidemic once and for all.”