Welfare reforms will not work in Northern Ireland according to Social Development minister Alex Attwood

Alex Attwood, Northern Irelands Social Development minster has told David Freud, the new work programme will not work in Northern Ireland. Mr Attwood claimed there are big differences between Belfast and London. The Social Development minister put forward three reasons to why the work programme would not work in Northern Ireland.

“Firstly, it is certain that Northern Ireland will emerge from recession far later than Britain. Welfare reforms that purport to get people back to work require by their nature work opportunities. This may not happen for many years in Northern Ireland. This makes the North different and welfare proposals won't work here”.

“Secondly, there are deeper levels of deprivation in NI which results in bigger reasons for people being on benefits. Welfare policy must reflect this. London proposals do not”.

“Thirdly, devolution is still young. Our institutions are still growing. Stability of the community, particular in areas of need must be protected. Welfare proposals and any other government proposals must be assessed by these particular needs. Stability must not be jeopardised”.

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