Politics

SDLP to set out alternative vision for Stormont and warns Executive must deliver more than ‘vague aspirations’ and photo shoots

The SDLP Opposition will launch a ‘Plan for Change,’ setting out what Stormont could achieve by the end of the currrent mandate in 2027.

Stormont ministers are set to meet to consider a proposed programme for government
The SDLP has set out an alternative vision for Stormont as the Executive prepares to publish a programme for government. (Liam McBurney/PA)
By Allan Preston

THE SDLP is to set out its alternative plans for what Stormont should achieve by the end of the current mandate in 2027, warning the Executive must deliver more than “vague aspirations” and photo shoots.

It comes as detail on the Executive’s long-awaited programme for government is expected this week.

The SDLP Opposition say their ‘Plan for Change’ will set out clear targets until 2030, but with legislative and administrative actions the Executive could implement by 2027.

The SDLP laid out five main themes as to what they would prioritise;

  • “Rescue public services,” including strategies for waiting lists and childcare.
  • “Transform our democracy,” which includes “a covenant” from Executive parties not to collapse Stormont from the remainder of the term and new legal powers for the Fiscal Council to report on Executive performance.
  • “Unlock economic potential,” with a regional jobs, skills and investment bill to rebalance the economy, a strategy to exploit dual market access and a commitment to extend the Wild Atlantic Way and Ancient East tourism brands.
  • “Restore our environment,” which would include an independent Environmental Protection Agency and a nature restoration bill to halt biodiversity loss.
  • “To end division,” with a Hate Crime Bill that tackles “the scourge of race hate and intolerance,” a legal framework for flag-flying and new refugee integration and racial equality strategies.
PA
Opposition leader Matthew O'Toole holds his party's alternative programme for government. PICTURE: DAVID YOUNG/PA (David Young/David Young/PA Wire)

The SDLP’s leader of the opposition, Matthew O’Toole MLA, said the Executive’s programme for government must not avoid specific detail.

“So far, they have simply given us a list of gauzy, aspirational priorities. The public deserves more than that – they deserve specific actions that will deliver measurable targets,” he said.

“People don’t need hundreds of pages of waffle, they need clear plans and then action.

“Our plan sets out actions that are practical but ambitious. We are clear what we would do, now the Executive needs to be clear on what it will do. Simply being in office and staging photo opportunities isn’t enough.”