Other News In Brief

SDLP Supports BT And Openreach Staff

SDLP Foyle MLA Sinéad McLaughlin has expressed her support and solidarity with BT and Openreach staff on strike on Friday and Monday.

Ms McLaughlin visited the Communication Workers Union (CWU) picket line in Derry on Friday to meet with staff and discuss their concerns.

She encouraged the company to meet with union leaders and reach an agreement with staff.

Ms McLaughlin said: "I visited with striking BT and Openreach workers at the CWU picket line in Derry on Friday to listen to their concerns and show my solidarity as they campaign for fair pay. Following a derisory pay offer by the company, staff have been left feeling like they had no other option and it’s extremely disappointing that the company have allowed things to escalate to this point.

"These staff perform a vital role in our society and deserve to be compensated fairly for it. We rely on the essential work of BT and Openreach staff to keep our broadband and phone services running. They are also depended on by the likes of the NHS and worked tirelessly to keep people connected during the coronavirus pandemic."

Call For Clarification Over Energy Support Payments

Clarification needs to be given on how people in Northern Ireland will benefit from energy support payments, Alliance Communities spokesperson Kellie Armstrong MLA has said.

The Strangford MLA was speaking after details were revealed regarding the £400 scheme in Great Britain, which will be paid in six monthly instalments. However, Ms Armstrong said uncertainty remained what would happen in Northern Ireland, due to the lack of an Executive.

"With repeated energy company price increases, households are concerned how they will be able to afford to heat their homes this winter," she said.

"The proposed £400 energy support scheme provided some hope for homes. But without a functioning Executive working to take decisions, we remain unclear as to how the support payments will be made here this autumn.

"Questions remain around issues, including if the money is paid to energy companies, how will the public see the benefit? Or will tenants who pay electric money to a landlord be able to see if it has been applied further?

"Northern Ireland is being left behind because of the lack of a government. The DUP needs to end its boycott, allow the formation of an Executive and let us gain clarity for these support schemes."

Action Needs To Be Taken Over 'Scandalous Proifiteering' By Energy Firms

Sinn Féin MP John Finucane has called on the UK government to take action on 'scandalous profiteering' by energy companies who are making a fortune, while ordinary workers and families are struggling to pay their bills.

The North Belfast MP said: "It's unacceptable that profits lifted by big energy corporations can go through the roof while ordinary workers and families struggle to heat their homes.

"The same energy corporations have delivered hike after hike to the price of gas and fuel in recent months, resulting in low and middle income families being forced to make difficult decisions just to afford their household bills.

"It is scandalous and can't continue. I am calling on the British government to take action now to ensure that big corporations pay their fair share and are not ripping people off.

"They should do more to support people, this includes providing more money for Executive departments to meet the demands of inflation and the rising cost of living.

"Sinn Féin are ready to form an Executive today, to work with others and play our part to put money in people’s pockets and address this crisis. The DUP should end its boycott and get back to work now. People can't wait."