Long reiterates call for independent talks mediator with Secretary of State

Alliance Leader Naomi Long has reiterated her party’s call for an independent mediator in her first meeting with the new Secretary of State. Mrs Long was speaking after meeting Karen Bradley for the first time in her new role. She said it was a positive and constructive meeting. “It is clear the Secretary of State […]

Armstrong urges people to break the silence over sexual violence

Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong has helped launch a campaign asking MLAs to do more to break the silence around sexual violence. Strangford MLA Ms Armstrong spoke at the event for Nexus NI, as part of their Break the Silence movement. It is calling on MLAs to pledge to do more, helping the organisation and other […]

Cancer figures show human cost of political failure – Bradshaw

Alliance Health Spokesperson Paula Bradshaw has cautioned that cancer must be a political priority as latest figures show waiting time targets are still being badly missed. The South Belfast MLA said: “What we are continuing to see is people being left in a very difficult situation without access to the right treatment at the right […]

Alliance calls for investigation following Britain First video

Alliance has called for an investigation after the Britain First deputy leader was videoed in the Lord Mayor’s chair in City Hall criticising charges brought against her for alleged hate speeches. The video, showing Jayda Fransen in Councillor robes in the chamber, appeared on social media after she had been to court relating to charges […]

Armstrong welcomes focus on Infrastructure

The Alliance MLA for Strangford was speaking after attending the official launch of Northern Ireland’s Year of Infrastructure, adding the aim over the next 12 months was to communicate to everyone just why Infrastructure is so important. She added: “I welcome the focus on Infrastructure this year. Infrastructure considers not just roads and public transport […]

Dickson condemns those behind sectarian graffiti

Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson has condemned those behind sectarian graffiti threatening workers in West Belfast. The graffiti was daubed on a wall in Millennium Way near to the Caterpillar plant. Mr Dickson said it was “disgraceful” and appealed for anyone with information to come forward with it. “This type of graffiti was designed to intimidate […]

Political impasse cannot be allowed to continue any longer, says Long

The political impasse cannot be allowed to continue any longer, Alliance Leader Naomi Long MLA has said, a year on from Martin McGuinness’ resignation as deputy First Minister. Mrs Long said the lack of a Government the past year had exacerbated pressures on the health and education sectors, as well as community organisations and others. […]

Long: New SOS must bring momentum to talks process

It is imperative the new Secretary of State injects fresh momentum into the talks process, Alliance Leader Naomi Long has said. Mrs Long was speaking after the appointment of Karen Bradley to the role. “Alliance congratulates the new Secretary of State on her selection, wish her well in the role and we look forward to […]

Sinn Féin suspension of McElduff will be seen as weak by many, says Long

Alliance Leader Naomi Long MLA has said Sinn Féin’s three-month suspension of Barry McElduff will be seen as weak by many. Mrs Long was speaking after party MP Mr McElduff was suspended for three months over a social media video showing him posing with a Kingsmill loaf on his head on the 42nd anniversary of […]

Armstrong welcomes cruise ship refitting at Harland and Wolff

Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong has welcomed news a major cruise ship is to be refitted at Harland and Wolff. The multi-million-pound contract was won by the Newry-based MJM Group. It will see the company manage the docking, berthing and refit of the Azamara Pursuit in Belfast this April and the ship will make its maiden […]