She was speaking as the party launched its Democratic Renewal paper, which outlines a series of proposals to fix the system of government here. It includes removing the ability of one party to collapse Stormont, ensuring all parties’ votes count equally, stopping blockage at the Executive, having Ministers be more accountable and increasing transparency in party political funding.

 

The Alliance Leader said the steps to reform the system the party outlined would also help clean up politics and raise standards here.

 

“A generation ago, the people of Northern Ireland were promised government which could deliver for everyone in our society. But the years since have seen other parties reduce that ambition to a system burdened with delay and dysfunction rather than delivery and change,” she said.

 

“The Executive has been in a state of collapse for nearly half its lifetime, a succession of parties and Ministers abusing their power, and a continuing lack of transparency around political donations and shadowy international influences.

 

“In short, many people are understandably disillusioned with politics, a frustration shared by Alliance. We need democratic renewal and these proposals are Alliance’s plan to do just that. Democracy should be about delivery for ordinary people, not billionaires with agendas or parties obsessed with causing dysfunction.

 

“The argument for reform has been won – the Assembly has backed an Alliance call for it and the discussions are taking place right across Northern Ireland. Reform needs to happen, so let’s grab the opportunity and make it the best type possible.”

View our full proposals here.