20/07/2018
SDLP Slams DWP Over ESA Underpayments
The SDLP has hit out at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) after new findings revealed ESA underpayments were avoidable.
Deputy leader of the party Nichola Mallon said the findings from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) show the DWPs "total lack of disregard for the welfare of claimants who rely on the payments".
She said: "The PAC report is an accurate reflection of the experience of welfare reform for many constituents, who feel as though they are merely a number.
"The DWPs 'culture of indifference' shown by their lack of urgency to repay claimants the amount owed as a result of its blunder, and in a timely manner, illustrates just where the priorities of this Tory Government lie.
"The lives of vulnerable claimants are tough enough without being denied the support they need to get by, and unfortunately as long as the North remains without a functioning Executive and a Departmental Minister, claimants here are left to the same fate as those who are being failed by DWP across the water."
(CD)
Deputy leader of the party Nichola Mallon said the findings from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) show the DWPs "total lack of disregard for the welfare of claimants who rely on the payments".
She said: "The PAC report is an accurate reflection of the experience of welfare reform for many constituents, who feel as though they are merely a number.
"The DWPs 'culture of indifference' shown by their lack of urgency to repay claimants the amount owed as a result of its blunder, and in a timely manner, illustrates just where the priorities of this Tory Government lie.
"The lives of vulnerable claimants are tough enough without being denied the support they need to get by, and unfortunately as long as the North remains without a functioning Executive and a Departmental Minister, claimants here are left to the same fate as those who are being failed by DWP across the water."
(CD)
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Unemployment Claimants Drop By 1,100
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A programme encouraging unemployed people here to consider self-employment has been most successful according to a report published today. The New Deal Self-employment route was initially introduced by the Department for Employment and Learning in 1998.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Mostly dry Tuesday but a chance of showers at times. Cloudier at first, but a chance of sunny spells breaking out through the day. Winds turning lighter. More cloud building before sunset. Maximum temperature 13 °C.Tonight:Cloud and outbreaks of rain spread north through the evening and overnight, perhaps some drier and clearer spells developing in western counties around dawn. Minimum temperature 6 °C.