Jobs And Beds At Risk With Health Cut Concerns

The likely closure of residential care homes is another major concern across the province. In Belfast, the avenues available to people to allow them to challenge any closures were discussed. When the subject of legal action came up, barrister Alban Maginess said; “The problem with going down the legal route is the length of time [...]

Health, how to lobby a cross departmental issue

A representative of the Multiple Sclerosis Society mentioned how difficult and confusing it could be to get her charity’s messages across to the right people when there are cross-departmental issues. She asked the panel what would be the best way to approach the MS Society’s lobbying. Alban Maginess gave a comprehensive answer; “Anyone that’s lobbying [...]

Concerns Raised Over The Lack Of Awareness For Those With Hearing Difficulties

Health is always a major issue, but one disability which often doesn’t get the attention it warrants is deafness. One audience member raised the issue that there are thousands of people in this country who have hearing difficulties that can make everyday life a real struggle. On this topic the MLAs all agreed that more [...]

Green Policies To Combat The Twin Issues Of Climate Change And Recession

The creation of ‘green’ jobs in the US is something that could improve climate change problems and the recession. Public works and the creation of a green economic stimulus is, someone claimed, one area our government could improve to help with employment and the environment. Could our local government implement some policies to invest in [...]

Cost Cutting and Effective Committees at The Assembly

The work of the Assembly was directly questioned as someone raised their concerns that Assembly Committees ‘don’t have power to change anything’. This was coupled with the subject of the Assembly’s ability or inability to cut its costs. Nelson McCausland believes that the Committee system at present needs addressed. He said: “They could be sharpened [...]