Armstrong delighted after plans announced to stop six-month rule for those on benefits with terminal illness

Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong has said she is delighted after the Communities Minister announced plans to stop the ‘six-month’ rule for people on benefits with a terminal illness. Under the current rules, certain benefits for those with a terminal illness can be fast-tracked if they can produce a doctor’s note saying they have six months […]

PIP report outlines ‘systemic maladministration’, says Armstrong

Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong welcomes the stark but well researched report by the NI Public Service Office (NIPSO) who have identified ‘systemic maladministration’ in the PIP system. After the new report highlighted significant failings in the system, Kellie – Vice Chair of the Communities committee, called on the Minister to urgently outline her planned actions […]

Hybrid meetings will open up electoral opportunities to more, says Armstrong

Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong has backed plans to see a return to hybrid meeting models for Council meetings across Northern Ireland. The Vice Chair of the Communities Committee was speaking as the Local Government Bill was given the go-ahead for accelerated passage through the Assembly, after the legislation ran out in early May. Kellie said: […]

Alliance to offer bereavement leave for employees affected by miscarriage and stillbirth, says Armstrong

Alliance is to offer bereavement leave for employees affected by miscarriage and stillbirth, Chief Whip Kellie Armstrong MLA has said. Ms Armstrong was speaking ahead of the latest stage of the Parental Bereavement Bill in the Assembly today (Monday). It aims to bring in statutory paid leave of two weeks for those who have suffered […]

We have opportunity to develop local producers into tourist attractions with Licensing Bill, says Armstrong

We have an opportunity to develop more local craft brewers, distiller, cideries and wineries into tourist attractions, Alliance Communities spokesperson Kellie Armstrong MLA has said. Ms Armstrong was speaking ahead of the Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Bill reaching its consideration stage in the Assembly. It is designed to extending opening hours for pubs […]

Health Minister can show gratitude to carers by following up previous pledges, says Armstrong

The Health Minister can show gratitude for the work of carers during the pandemic by following up on previous pledges, Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong has said.   Ms Armstrong was speaking as she brought a petition to the Assembly, calling on Robin Swann to support carers by reopening all respite and day centres across Northern […]

Armstrong disappointed after Department appears to put scrapping six-month rule on back-burner

Alliance Communities spokesperson Kellie Armstrong MLA has said she is disappointed after plans to scrap the ‘six-month’ rule for those with terminal illnesses claiming benefits appeared to be put on the back-burner by the Department for Communities. The Strangford MLA was speaking after a meeting of the Assembly’s Communities Committee, during which it was confirmed […]