People Before Profit have condemned the announcement from the British Chancellor Rachel Reeves of spending cuts amounting to £5.5 billion.
Councillor Shaun Harkin says that continued policies of austerity only target the poor and weaken public services.
Said the Foyleside councillor: “The Tories and now Labour talk up how fiscal responsibility is crucial, they play games with the lives of working class people while protecting the super rich.
“The British tax system is designed to keep money in the pockets of the millionaires and billionaires.
“The Labour Party have a huge majority and the opportunity to be a transformative Government.
“Instead they are setting out their stall and letting the wealthy know that they pose no threat.
“Implementing progressive taxation, where the wealthy contribute their fair share would easily cover any shortfall in the public purse. As would the closing tax loopholes and ensuring corporations pay their dues.
“If the offshore magic money tree was cut down enough revenue could be generated without ever having to cut public services.
“While preaching austerity, Reeves and her administration are promising to massively increase British military spending.
“This will include updating the Trident nuclear programme, an expensive and dangerous folly. Scrapping it would not only save billions but also promote global disarmament.
“Redirecting these funds towards healthcare, education, and climate initiatives should be an imperative.
“Sinn Féin and the Stormont Executive’s response to the British Chancellor’s planned cuts is exactly the same as ever.
“They shrug their shoulders and echo the nonsense about ‘tough decisions.’
“They glibly accept the neoliberal economic analysis coming from London without even the meekest of challenges.
“Austerity disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, exacerbating inequality.
“Austerity implemented over the last 15 years has caused massive economic disparity.
“The wealth gap between rich and poor has never been higher.
“Continuing austerity and cutting public services will harm those who rely on them most.
“There is an alternative. Tax the rich.
“Invest to stimulate growth, create jobs, and support the most vulnerable.”
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