The analysis revealed that Northern Ireland is being underfunded compared to other devolved jurisdictions and that providing resources that match the true level of local need could be worth between £1 billion and £3.5 billion more per year for our public services.
The Upper Bann MLA said: “The Fiscal Council’s independent analysis lays bare what Alliance has been saying for years: Northern Ireland is not getting a fair deal on our finances.
“If we were funded on an equitable basis with Scotland and Wales, this could mean billions in additional investment in public services and tackling the cost of living.
“Of course, this report does not negate the need for the Executive to take responsibility. Poor budget management from some Ministers and the ongoing cost of division have significantly contributed to the Executive’s enormous overspend, and while getting on top of those challenges is essential, today’s findings have also illustrated that we are trying to do so with one arm tied behind our back.
“A fair funding settlement and better spending decisions by local Ministers are not mutually exclusive and should be pursued simultaneously to help ensure the fit-for-purpose public services that people in Northern Ireland deserve. Reviewing our funding formula is a key step in that.”
The Upper Bann MLA said: “The Fiscal Council’s independent analysis lays bare what Alliance has been saying for years: Northern Ireland is not getting a fair deal on our finances.
“If we were funded on an equitable basis with Scotland and Wales, this could mean billions in additional investment in public services and tackling the cost of living.
“Of course, this report does not negate the need for the Executive to take responsibility. Poor budget management from some Ministers and the ongoing cost of division have significantly contributed to the Executive’s enormous overspend, and while getting on top of those challenges is essential, today’s findings have also illustrated that we are trying to do so with one arm tied behind our back.
“A fair funding settlement and better spending decisions by local Ministers are not mutually exclusive and should be pursued simultaneously to help ensure the fit-for-purpose public services that people in Northern Ireland deserve. Reviewing our funding formula is a key step in that.”