McCausland claimed that four firms had overcharged the Housing Executive for a total of £18million, but three of the contractors will now only pay back £670,000. The fourth contractor is actually owed money.
Stewart Dickson MLA said: “Nelson McCausland owes these companies a full apology. Their reputations were tarnished by his claims, something that the Minister has not acknowledged.
“He needs to admit that he should not have made such serious claims without properly checking the facts surrounding this issue.
“I believe the Minister’s position is under threat, as this issue follows the Social Development Committee’s report which found he misled the Assembly over a double glazing contract. It is surprising that the Minister refuses to apologise when he makes such serious mistakes.
“He cannot continue to blame other people for these issues. He is the Minister, he should admit responsibility for his actions.”
ENDS