Alliance spokesperson on Welfare, Strangford MLA Kellie Armstrong, has said the Communities Minister needs to move fast to extend the welfare mitigations that are due to run out on 31 March.

Kellie Armstrong said: “Shortly after taking up her post, the Communities Minister confirmed that she would continue to provide mitigation payments to offset the bedroom tax. However, she has not yet put the necessary legislation before the Assembly and the cliff edge deadline of 31 March is approaching fast.

“In addition, many thousands of people rely on a range of other mitigation payments and the Minister needs to give reassurances to these people that support will continue.

“I would urge Minister Hargey to clarify when she intends to introduce legislation to extend the welfare mitigations to ensure there is no break in financial support for our most vulnerable.”