Dickson disappointed at DUP decision to block Assembly call for inquiry into Spotlight allegations

Alliance Chief Whip Stewart Dickson MLA has expressed his disappointment that the DUP have submitted a petition of concern on Monday’s motion on the allegations raised by the Spotlight investigation. This will mean that the DUP will be able to block this cross party motion. Stewart Dickson MLA said: “It was important for the Assembly […]

Cochrane –We must restore public confidence in the political process following Spotlight allegations

Alliance Social Development spokesperson Judith Cochrane MLA has said that she hopes that the Assembly will unanimously support the motion that has been proposed following the Spotlight investigation. She hopes it will help restore the public’s confidence in the wider political process. Judith Cochrane MLA said: “I hope that all parties will unite behind the […]

Dickson hopes Assembly will support Alliance call for an independent inquiry into Spotlight allegations

Alliance Chief Whip Stewart Dickson MLA has welcomed the decision to recall the Assembly to discuss the issues raised in the BBC Spotlight investigation into Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland. The Alliance Party is proposing an amendment to the debate on Monday to ensure that any inquiry into these allegations is independent. Stewart Dickson MLA […]

Lo asks where is the legislation for the reform of Councils?

During the meeting of the Assembly Environment Committee, Alliance Environment spokesperson Anna Lo MLA has brought up the delay in the legislation on the reform of Local Government. Anna asked that the Minister provide information relating to when the legislation will appear in the Assembly and why has there been so many delays with shadow […]

Cochrane – McCausland must answer serious questions over Spotlight investigation

Alliance Social Development spokesperson Judith Cochrane MLA has said that the Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland must provide answers to the serious questions raised in a BBC Spotlight investigation. Judith Cochrane MLA said: “This Spotlight investigation has raised some very serious questions. Nelson McCausland must provide answers to these issues and release any relevant information. […]

Dickson – HET report shows the need for a comprehensive means of dealing with the past

Alliance Justice spokesperson Stewart Dickson MLA has said the report on the Historical Enquiries Team by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary has again highlighted the need to find a comprehensive means of dealing with the legacy of the past. The report was critical of the way the HET dealt with cases involving deaths caused by […]

Cochrane says we need to look at other means of providing banking services following branch closures

Alliance Finance spokesperson Judith Cochrane has commented on the announcement that First Trust Bank will close branches in Ballymoney, Finaghy, Ballynahinch and Stormont. Staff at these branches will be offered other positions or voluntary redundancy. It follows the decision by Ulster Bank to close up to 39 of its branches across the island of Ireland […]

Cochrane says Concentrix jobs announcement will be a boost to local economy

Alliance Finance spokesperson Judith Cochrane MLA has welcomed the announcement by Belfast outsourcing company Concentrix Corporation that they will be recruiting 100 permanent and 150 temporary jobs after they secured new business contracts. The new staff will handle customer service and inbound sales for a global technology company. Judith Cochrane MLA said: “This jobs announcement […]

Cochrane: Statutory agencies must work together to find answers on suspected drug deaths

Alliance East Belfast MLA Judith Cochrane has said all statutory agencies have a responsibility to work together to determine if a number of suspected drug deaths are related. The MLA for East Belfast said the groups – including the PSNI and Health Department – must unite to provide real answers to on-going concerns over the […]