People Before Profit Councillor Shaun Harkin
Said the Foyleside councillor: “Our proposal to defer striking rates until Stormont Ministers respond to Council demands to provide financial support was backed by everyone except Sinn Féin.
“Last year ratepayers here were hit with an almost 8% hike.
“This year Council’s across the North are hiking rates well above inflation and a 15% regional rate is predicted.
“Last year, those of us refusing to inflict further rates hardship on households and organisations struggling with bills were told nothing could be done without an Executive and without Ministers.
“Now both are in place with access to funding.
“Families continue to struggle with costs and too many small businesses aren’t making it.
“The First Minister has pledged to prioritise Stormont investment in Derry and the North West. That needs to start now.
“Derry and Strabane Council receives 21% from the total Rates Support Grant to assist poorer Council’s but Stormont has slashed its worth from almost £20 million to less than £5 million.
“Restoring RSG funding would protect Council finances and ease the burden on ratepayers.
“Funding for Good Relations, Peace Plus, Advice Services and many other Council backed services should be immediately restored and increased.
“The Council’s business case for central government funding for City of Derry Airport should receive immediate ministerial agreement.
“It’s no longer the case nothing can be done to protect Council finances and lessen the burden on ratepayers.
“We can’t continue to unfairly burden Derry and District ratepayers.
“We don’t need more pledges – we need action.”
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