Ulster Society calls on political parties to end crisis

Chartered Accountants Ulster Society has expressed concern and disappointment over the crisis that has engulfed the devolved institutions.

Maeve Hunt, Chairperson of Chartered Accountants Ulster Society, in a statement, said: “Northern Ireland is now caught it a situation where nothing of substance can be decided. A consultation on a three-year Budget is currently underway but without a functioning Executive, it cannot be taken forward.

“We need certainty, timely decision-making, innovative thinking and proper financial planning across all government departments including Health, Education, Infrastructure and, of course, the Economy. That will now not happen and that is a great disappointment.

“We are also concerned for the future of the devolved institutions. The last thing that business and our economy needs is a protracted period of political stagnation and uncertainty.

“We believe that what is being played out at Stormont has the potential to cause serious damage to Northern Ireland’s international reputation. Inward investors and overseas businesses look for political stability whenever they are making important decisions and if that is absent, then Northern Ireland could be the loser.

“As Northern Ireland begins to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, leadership and real decision-making is needed now more than ever.”