SDLP Foyle Westminster candidate Mark Durkan has said people in Derry need a ‘Prosperity Process’ – rather than continued austerity. Speaking after this week’s launch of the SDLP General Election 2015 manifesto ‘Prosperity Not Austerity’, Mr Durkan said:
“The SDLP – including John Hume and others – were at the forefront of bringing peace to the North. However, the political process (which has been dominated in recent years by the DUP and Sinn Fein) has failed to deliver a much needed ‘Prosperity Process’.
“We are therefore proposing radical measures to deliver this – including a partnership with the new government in London to establish a Scottish-style commission which would allow for the devolution of more fiscal powers.
“We also want to see VAT in the hospitality and tourism industry reduced from 20% to 5% which would make a huge difference to Derry – resulting not only in extra jobs but a significant boost to our local economy.
“On Welfare Reform, we will also oppose all further cuts which attack the unemployed, the sick and disabled, and hard-pressed families in Derry.
“The SDLP doesn’t oppose Tory cuts by just holding placards orputting leaflets through doors. We voted against them at every stage in the House of Commons.
“We will therefore take our seats at Westminster not only to take a strong stand for people locally – including the most vulnerable in society – but also to be at the forefront of global social justice issues.”
Tags: