O’Neill Advocates for Better Funding for Northern Ireland Amid Challenges
O’Neill emphasizes the need for improved funding for Northern Ireland’s public services, highlighting Labour’s engagement and recent challenges.
Northern Ireland, Stormont, Labour, Public Services, Funding
Belfast: Stormont’s First Minister, O’Neill, says Labour is more engaged than the Tories. She criticized cuts to winter fuel payments for pensioners, calling it “crass.”
Ministers in Northern Ireland have long argued for better funding for public services. They believe the current support is not enough.
When Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister, he visited Stormont. He promised a “reset” in relations with devolved institutions.
O’Neill mentioned that Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald is pushing for a better funding model from the Treasury. She believes they deserve well-funded public services.
“People pay taxes and national insurance, so they should see that investment,” O’Neill said. Thanks to their efforts, nearly half a billion pounds has been added to public services.
She noted that leadership changes in Westminster have affected funding discussions. O’Neill feels there’s still more work to do on funding issues.
She disagreed with the Labour Government’s approach to winter fuel payments, saying it was not the right way to handle challenges.
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly praised Westminster’s aid after Storm Eowyn. She highlighted the strong working relationships that helped secure support.
Little-Pengelly said they need more investment in public services across the UK. However, she acknowledged the tough fiscal environment they face.