East Belfast Ulster Unionist Party MLA Andy Allen MBE has again called on the Minister for the Economy to extend the Spend Local card spending deadline, because many people still have not received their cards. 

Mr Allen said:

“Yet again we are fast approaching another Spend Local card spending deadline, however, many individuals still have not received their cards despite assurances of next day delivery. The overwhelming majority of people contacting myself and colleagues have indicated they received confirmation their application had been verified, yet have still not received their cards.

“I have previously called on the Economy Minister Gordon Lyons MLA to extend the spending deadline to the end of January, and while I recognise the recent extension announced by the Minister, it was clear the 5-day extension wouldn’t be enough. 

“I am therefore again calling on the Minister to extend the spending deadline to the end of January to allow time for these late cards to be received and spent. If the Minister is unable or unwilling to grant a further extension, then he really needs to explain to those still waiting for their cards his reasoning.”