We are far from clear of the COVID-19 crisis, but once it eases, Northern Ireland, alongside much of the world, will face enhanced, ongoing economic challenges for businesses and people. I am sceptical we will automatically see a V-shaped economic slump followed by a sharp recovery. While this economic recession doesn’t arise from demand-related problems, […]
Alliance Communities spokesperson Kellie Armstrong MLA has called on two Executive Ministers to change the current system to ensure sports clubs can qualify for financial support to stay afloat during the coronavirus pandemic. It follows the suspension of the Department for Communities’ Hardship Fund for Sport. Under the current regulations, sports clubs cannot apply for […]
Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has welcomed the Health Minister’s announcement that rules on blood donation will now come fully into line with the rest of the UK, removing the effective discrimination against gay men. Robin Swann announced the changes, which will come into effect on June 1, which will mean a three-month deferral […]
Alliance Carrick Castle Councillor Lauren Gray has condemned those behind incidents of aggravated burglary and criminal damage in the town yesterday (Tuesday). A masked gang armed with pick-axes attacked a black Volkswagen Passat around 5pm, after blocking the car the junction of Larne Road and Higgins Court, causing damage to the windows and lights. The […]
The Alliance Party is pushing to ensure local government remains fully open and transparent as the covid-19 pandemic continues, as the party backs plans for Councils to meet remotely. Chief Whip and Communities spokesperson Kellie Armstrong MLA, said it was important at this uncertain time that good governance was able to be maintained, along with […]
Not using transfer tests for post-primary admission must be given serious consideration by the Education Minister, Alliance MLA Chris Lyttle has said, after the AQE organisation postponed the registration date for its transfer test. Registration for P6 pupils has been delayed until May 14, with AQE saying it is to provide clarity for paretns due to the […]
Northern Ireland can take a giant leap forward in the fight against domestic abuse if new legislation is agreed, Alliance Justice Minister Naomi Long has said. She was speaking as she moved the Second Stage of the Domestic Abuse and Family Proceedings Bill in the Assembly. She said progressing domestic abuse legislation had been a […]
Alliance Health Spokesperson Paula Bradshaw has welcomed the allocation of extra money to care homes as the battle against Covid-19 continues, but warned that staff should be tested as a priority to break chains of infection before they occur. The South Belfast MLA stated: “I welcome the prioritisation of care homes now being shown, as […]
Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has said a swift response is required to a survey showing nearly half of anesthetists are not confident they will have the required drug supply over the next month. The survey by the Royal College of Anaesthetists said 40 per cent of respondents are not confident they will have […]
Lessons need learned following the publication of a report into the failure of lifts at MOT centres earlier this year, Alliance MLA Andrew Muir has said. North Down MLA Mr Muir was speaking following the publication of an Audit Office investigation into the failure of the lifts. The Alliance Infrastructure spokesperson had previously requested the […]