Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson has welcomed a commitment from Chancellor Rishi Sunak to extend furlough until the end of April.

Mr Dickson said the Economy Minister should follow his example and review the current schemes in operation as we head towards a tough third wave in the fight against Covid-19.

He added: “Today’s announcement from the Chancellor will bring much relief to businesses and employees who are unsure what 2021 will bring.

“The financial response here in Northern Ireland in comparison can be characterised by one word – slow. It has taken far too long for many to access the necessary funding, not to mention the amount of time taken to address many of those who had fallen through the cracks.

“With a number of people still falling into excluded groups, I would urge the Economy Minister to now begin the process of assessing the current schemes in operation to see how they can work better and how best they can be prolonged.

“The Chancellor has led the way; the Economy Minister needs to act now.”