Ford Calls For Stormont 'Reboot'

Alliance Leader David Ford has called for a Stormont "reboot" to address what he calls "the cycle of crises that have affected progress" in government.

Mr Ford's comments follow the DUP and UUP's exit from all-party talks last week, after the Parades Commission ruled that an Orange Order parade could only march through a predominantly nationalist area in north Belfast once on 12 July.

David Ford MLA said: "For too long now public services and the entire community have been held back as a result of the almost complete failure of leadership over crucial issues and the breakdown of functioning relationships between the two main political parties. It is clear to me that things must be done differently at Stormont.

"The public deserve better - we should no longer accept the status quo. A lack of commitment and ability to work professionally is stifling social cohesion, damaging communities and the prospects of our young people and impacting on economic success. Politics must work for the entire community. Stormont needs a reboot."

Mr Ford said the DUP and UUP's exit from talks last week had "created a crisis over parading".

He suggested the formation of a voluntary coalition between parties and subject to a vote in the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Mr Ford also suggested replacing the Petition of Concern system with a qualified majority system and the creation of an opposition, free from the voluntary government.

He said there should be "greater co-operation between Ministers requiring them to work together under law," and that all Executive policies should be required to be "shared-future proofed".

(IT/CD)