13/04/2015

SDLP Supports Assembly Commission Proposals

The SDLP has endorsed a 3% cut to party financing by the Assembly commission.

Mr Pat Ramsey said that it's important that parties share the pain of cuts.

He said: "In the context of devastating cuts to public services as a result of the Sinn Féin/DUP austerity budget, it's important that political parties share in the pain being inflicted on countless organisations across the North.

"That's why the SDLP is backing the cut to party financing proposed by the Assembly commission. Financial Assistance for political parties must be regulated, transparent and open to scrutiny. The Assembly should facilitate this, offering an accurate picture of party activities. People have been let down by parties channelling public funds into their own research companies or through murky cultural societies."

(CD/MH)

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