Naomi Long MP said: “It is perplexing that the NIO has decided not to deliver transparency but has opted instead for delay. Why should the people of Northern Ireland not be afforded the same level of transparency regarding donations made to their political parties as people in other parts of the UK?
“Politicians should be doing all they can to improve public confidence in politics and being open about donors would be a significant step forward. Public confidence in their elected representatives has been eroded by a number of scandals in recent years, and this was an opportunity to contribute to rebuilding trust.
“Our society is moving forward and rules made for a different time need to change too. Unfortunately, this decision reflects neither the changed political context in Northern Ireland nor the changed public mood, and does nothing to progress the principle of openness and transparency. It is incredibly disappointing.”
ENDS