Opposition MLA, Mr McCarthy, said: “I am quite shocked that two Ministers have rejected their Skoda Ministerial cars. I hope that they do not expect the public to foot the bill for a new car for them.
“Any change is likely to lead to a considerable amount of public money being wasted. The Assembly budget is tight enough and the Executive should be looking to use resources to their efficiency potential. Will the public consider this an efficient use of their cash?
“It’s time for the Executive to get their priorities right – we need more funding in our frontline health and care services.
“These cars are top of the range, so I am sure that local people will be surprised and annoyed that two Executive Ministers have rejected them. This must not turn into a money-wasting exercise, because the public will have to pick up the tab on it.”
ENDS