Shared Future delay "wasting time and money"

Ulster Unionist Lagan Valley MLA, Basil McCrea, has described the money spent on developing a shared future strategy as "wasted" as Northern Ireland has not felt its benefits.

"I questioned the Minister for Social Development on this issue, as I am concerned at the costs of something which has so far failed to arrive.

"While the Minister was unable to answer the question of costs, she made it clear that this strategy, which is noticeable by its absence, is necessary.

"It is unfortunate that the document that was being prepared by the First Minister and deputy First Minister on this issue has not been brought to the Executive for consideration, debate or agreement.

"It is equally unfortunate that the Social Development Minister's offer to prepare a paper on how to develop a normal and shared society is still being 'reflected on' by the First Minister and deputy First Minister. Such stasis is typical of this ineffective partnership.

"I fully agree with the Minister that policies and programmes that encourage and promote a normal society are essential, which is why such a tremendous waste of time and money implicit in their delay is to be condemned."