Joanne Bunting said:
“It is revealing that the Alliance Party appears to have chosen its ministerial portfolio not based on a desire to improve policy in that department, but on the size of its budget. Viewing politics purely in financial terms is disappointing, what should matter most is delivering meaningful change and improving lives.
However, despite boasting of the size of the Department budget, Naomi Long fails to acknowledge that most of the Justice budget - around 95-97% - is already committed to staff wages and essential services, leaving the Minister with control over only a small fraction of the total funds. The suggestion that Alliance could significantly reshape the department with such limited flexibility exposes how superficial its motivations appear to have been, but might explain why the Minister has a record of washing her hands of issues when faced with challenge.”
Responding to Naomi Long’s comments on the NI Executive’s ban on puberty blockers, Bunting added:
“It is unsurprising that Naomi Long has indicated support for the potential future availability of puberty blockers. The DUP remains firmly opposed to such treatments for young people, given the significant long-term risks associated with them. These drugs remain experimental and can have serious health implications. It is concerning that Alliance appears willing to prioritise ideological positions over safeguarding children.
Whether on the issue of puberty blockers or the protection of single-sex spaces, Alliance continues to advance an agenda that many find troubling.
Government policy should always focus on protecting the most vulnerable in society. While Alliance appears preoccupied with its ‘progressive’ credentials, the DUP will continue to stand firm in defending the safety and dignity of young people and women.”