Sinn Féin MLA Colm Gildernew called on Communities Minister Gordon Lyons to consider concerns over the plan to address poverty.

Gildernew, the party's communities spokesperson, made the statement after a meeting of the Communities Committee.

The committee received input from local council representatives across Northern Ireland.

Gildernew stated that Lyons overlooked experience from campaigners and local councils in creating the plan.

Local councils will have a key role in carrying out the plan, according to Gildernew.

He noted that issues raised by the councils align with those from community and voluntary groups in recent months.

Gildernew said the proposals fall short and urged Lyons to adopt these perspectives for a stronger initiative to aid families in need.