Sir, – I am writing today as an Alliance Party local government councillor in Holywood, Co Down. I am compelled to express my deep concern over the ongoing boycott of the Northern Irish devolved institutions by the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP). This persistent impasse is hindering our democratic processes and leaving our citizens without the representation they deserve.
It is high time to break the political deadlock and revive the Assembly, breathing new life into our democratic system. The absence of a functioning Assembly has not only deprived our citizens of their rightful representation but has also impeded progress on critical issues affecting our community.
One immediate concern is the resolution of the public sector pay issues, which led to Northern Ireland’s largest strike on January 18th. Addressing this matter should be a top priority for the Secretary of State. However, the quickest and most secure way to manage the challenge is for the DUP to return to government. Additionally, the restored Assembly must receive proper financial support from Westminster to ensure sustained backing for the public sector in the years ahead. However, we must also address the question of the Assembly’s stability. If the Executive is restored, there is a legitimate fear that the DUP or Sinn Féin might disrupt its functioning based on their agenda. To prevent such disruptions, the institutions must undergo reforms, ensuring that no single party can bring down the Assembly at its discretion. This has been a longstanding policy focus of the Alliance Party, representing the voices of those in the centre ground who seek a functional government and policy stability.
As Northern Irish society evolves, so should our constitutional arrangements. I hail from Drogheda but am honoured to serve the constituents of Holywood and Clandeboye on the Ards and North Down Council. During the local election campaign last spring, not a single voter raised concerns about me being from the Republic. It is time for those of us who care about the future prosperity of our island to move forward united in hope and a spirit of co-operation. We cannot allow political stagnation to persist any longer. – Yours, etc,
Cllr DAVID ROSSITER,
Holywood,
Co Down.