Commenting Ms Forsythe said,
“We fully recognise the need to reform Northern Ireland’s funding arrangements but the SDLP’s call for further fiscal devolution is reckless and unrealistic. Our focus must remain on credible actions not chasing constitutional experiments that would hurt public services and households alike.
In our 2022 and 2024 manifestos we outlined how the NI Civil Service does not have the capacity to manage complex powers. Even the devolution of Corporation Tax, once secured, was never properly used. Indeed, the NI Audit Office have found there would be a £3billion overspend in 47 of 77 capital projects over a four year period. Only 9 of the 77 projects are expected to be delivered within timeline and budget.
The SDLP’s motion overlooks immediate, practical solutions like securing a fair, needs-based funding model, an achievable goal that would deliver real benefits for our public services far more quickly.
Fiscal devolution would introduce volatility and complexity, further destabilising Northern Ireland’s already fragile governance structures and could be exploited by those seeking to weaken our place in the United Kingdom.”