Assembly Condemns "Cruel" Disability Benefit Cuts

The Northern Ireland Assembly has expressed cross-party opposition to the British government's planned cuts to disability benefits, with MLAs calling for a reconsideration of the policy.

The motion, which garnered support across the political spectrum, highlighted the detrimental impact of the cuts on vulnerable individuals and the increased strain they would place on already stretched public services.

The move follows Chancellor of the Exchequer's announcement last week of further reductions to welfare and public service spending.

Sinn Féin MLA Colm Gildernew, the party's communities spokesperson, welcomed the cross-party support, describing the cuts as "callous, cruel and an attack on the most vulnerable." "Today, parties from across the Assembly voiced their opposition to the cruel cuts being imposed by the British government," Mr Gildernew said. "This is an attack on the most vulnerable people and frontline services, and will leave thousands more families in poverty."

He criticised the British government's approach, asserting: "The British government has again demonstrated that its concerns do not lie with the people of the north who continue to fall victim to British ministers making devastating decisions affecting our lives."

Mr Gildernew further stated: "Westminster does not, and will never serve the interests of workers, families and communities on this island." He concluded by advocating for a united approach towards a "new Ireland," saying, "By working together and building a new Ireland, we can create stronger public services and ensure our future is filled with hope, prosperity and opportunity for all."