Conservative ministers in government have “consistently delivered for Northern Ireland, despite being let down by incompetence and inaction at Stormont”, according to NI Conservatives’ finance spokesman, Bill McKendry.
“By granting the Executive a £100 million loan, the Chancellor of The Exchequer, George Osborne, has been as flexible as possible and given ministers yet another chance to show some responsibility and get on with making difficult decisions”, Bill observed. “Unfortunately, there’s little sign, as yet, that Stormont is getting its act together. There is every probability that this money will allow the Executive parties to forget about their problems for just a few months longer. Like many an irresponsible household, so long as the cash keeps flowing, they’ll worry about their budget after Christmas.”
“In Northern Ireland we’re used to procrastination and inaction from the Stormont parties, but, this time, the fantasy economics of Sinn Féin in particular, are pushing the Assembly right to the brink. This Executive seems absolutely incapable of addressing issues like welfare, waste and rebalancing the economy. George Osborne has shown remarkable patience and he’s done everything he can to help, but, ultimately, if the Stormont parties don’t get their act together, take responsibility and make the difficult decisions, the immediate future for devolved government in Northern Ireland is bleak.”