A no-confidence motion directed at Agriculture and Environment Minister Andrew Muir has been defeated after failing to secure sufficient backing within the Assembly.
The Democratic Unionist Party introduced the proposal, which also received backing from the Ulster Unionists and Traditional Unionist Voice.
Thirty-two members of the Legislative Assembly voted in favour of removing the minister, while thirty-eight MLAs opposed the motion.
Nationalist parties indicated they would not support the measure, contributing to the shortfall required for passage.
The dispute centres on a cattle cull operation in County Tyrone that took place in June near Fivemiletown.
Animals were shot in land where complaints have been raised regarding the manner of execution, with reports stating the work was conducted within earshot of members of the public.
In August, the Ulster Farmers' Union extended a vote of no confidence to include the permanent secretary and chief veterinary officer alongside the minister.
While motions of no-confidence in the Assembly are not binding even if a majority votes in favour, they cannot automatically force a minister from office.