Tackling Division Could Unlock Millions For Public Services

Tackling the cost of division in Northern Ireland could unlock significant funding for investment in public services, Alliance Finance spokesperson Eóin Tennyson has said.

The party is set to bring a motion before the Assembly on Tuesday, 25 March, calling for a Stormont action plan to address the issue.

Mr. Tennyson highlighted the substantial financial burden of societal division, which was estimated in 2016 to be at least £833 million annually. This cost stems from the duplication of public services, increased policing and security expenditure, and lost opportunities in investment and tourism.

He argued that the Executive's already strained budget is being wasted on maintaining a divided society, with those funds being better allocated to improving the health service and alleviating the cost of living.

Speaking ahead of the motion, the Upper Bann MLA stated, "The cost of division is a major structural problem in our public finances, with previous estimates suggesting we are squandering more than £833 million a year funding division, rather than opting for a more shared and integrated future." He emphasised the potential benefits of redirecting these funds, saying, "That is money which would be better spent investing in our community, and tackling the pressures facing health, housing, and other vital public services."

Mr. Tennyson further illustrated the potential impact of addressing the cost of division by outlining several key Executive priorities that could be fully funded. "In fact, several of the Executive's priorities could be funded by eliminating these costs. The first year of the plan to eliminate hospital waiting lists could be funded in full, we could meet our recruitment goal for new police officers, protect Lough Neagh, deliver comprehensive childcare and so much more," he said.

The Alliance motion calls for an updated assessment of the cost of division and a commitment from all parties to take action. "Alliance's motion calls for an updated assessment of the cost of division and a commitment from all parties to tackle the societal and financial costs of division. By doing so, we can not only ensure money is spent where it is needed most, but deliver a more inclusive, united and integrated community for everyone," Mr. Tennyson concluded.