The National Health Service and our education system make a real difference to all our lives, contributing in vital ways to the quality of life we experience as individuals, in our families and in our communities. Ulster Unionists are committed to our public services. The investments we as society make in our health service and our schools must secure access to quality healthcare and advice, and quality education - for all of us.

Quality local health services and quality local schools should be the cornerstones of communities across Northern Ireland - improving health and well-being, and increasing educational opportunities. The local accountability, strategic direction and targeted investment that a Northern Ireland Executive can bring to our public services stands in stark contrast to their mismanagement under Direct Rule - in which remote government by press release has been the order of the day.

Ulster Unionists believe that accountability and real partnership between a devolved Executive, health and education professionals, patients, parents, and communities can renew Northern Ireland's public services.