Dickson says we must reach agreement on welfare reform to stop financial penalty

Alliance Social Development spokesperson Stewart Dickson MLA has said that a deal must be found to progress the Welfare Reform Bill as a sanction of £5million per month commenced due to a failure to implement the legislation.

Stewart Dickson MLA said: “The SDLP and Sinn Fein are playing political games with the Northern Ireland budget. They both know that we will have to implement this legislation, but their failure to face reality is now costing us £5million a month, money that will be taken from our schools and hospitals.

“Alliance believes that the Assembly and the Executive must urgently find an agreed way forward on the welfare reform legislation. Doing nothing is not an option.

“Parties must be honest and realistic with the public about the limited changes that can be made to the legislation without severe financial implications. The Social Development Minister has already achieved a number of concessions from the Government. Any further possible refinements and amendments can now only be found by progressing the legislation through the Assembly and Social Development Committee.”

ENDS