The most important decision facing a generation of voters, Mr Muir said other Councillors had allowed themselves to ‘believe the myths’ being generated by the leave campaign – leading local people into a decision without focusing on the key issues facing Northern Ireland.
Councillor Andrew Muir said: “Northern Ireland’s economy gets a massive boost from membership of the EU and we need to get serious about the potential impact on everyone a vote to leave could have.
“Voters cannot allow the negative rhetoric around issues like immigration to overshadow what Northern Ireland stands to lose. It has also shone a light on the fractions with the UUP – with their Councillors’ mixed voting showing a lack of direction and leadership on such a fundamental issue.
“After questions from my colleague Naomi Long MLA, it has been confirmed this week that Northern Ireland has no back-up plan to make up the money it will lose from Europe.
“With farm subsidies, peace-funding and investment in skills all at risk, we cannot ignore the effect on jobs and the possibility households will have less disposable incomes.
“The debate needs to widen – this is about so much more than a single issue. Rather voters must have access to all the facts, with their elected representatives able to facilitate an open and honest discussion.”