Kieran McCarthy MLA has said he is horrified and shocked that the Executive has failed to meet in recent weeks, adding the Office of First and deputy First Minister must take responsibility for the lack of progress in Northern Ireland.
The MLA for Strangford was speaking after it was confirmed the business case that could save Exploris had failed to reach the Executive table, with only one brief meeting having taken place in recent weeks.
Kieran McCarthy MLA said: “Mark H Durkan has played his part and the business case is ready to go to the Executive. However I am furious and frustrated at the lack of progress at Executive level, on not only this, but a whole range of issues.
“What way is this to run Northern Ireland? How can OFMdFM think they are serving the people of Northern Ireland when they fail to us the structures in place to deliver for everyone. The Executive are due to meet on the 29th May. I would appeal to Ards Council to defer any decision until after that Executive meeting.
“When it comes to Exploris, it is absolutely disgraceful that the future of a well-known tourist destination is being put in jeopardy. The Environment Minister has confirmed the paper on Exploris is ready for discussion at Executive. We sincerely hope the businesscase will get the support of the Executive and the future of Exploris and its staff can be secured well into the future.”
Councillor Alan McDowell added: “Alliance Councillors will be fighting for an extension at Ards Borough Council’s next meeting. We will oppose any attempt to close Exploris. Councillors have a duty to the people of Northern Ireland to wait until the Executive has had time to assess the proposals.”
ENDS