Sinn Féin MLA Colm Gildernew has pressed the British government to provide greater financial assistance to address rising living costs in Northern Ireland. As chair of the Communities Committee, he took part in a debate on the matter.

Gildernew stated that the government has supplied the Executive with £17 million in additional funds so far. He indicated this amount falls short of requirements for affected households.

The MLA pointed out that the Executive has acted to direct extra resources toward vulnerable residents. He said the Executive seeks more substantial aid from the British government, including reductions in fuel duty taxes.

Gildernew stressed the need for prompt delivery of support directly to those requiring it. He called for a simple application process to speed distribution.

He noted that people in Northern Ireland cannot afford further delays for this assistance.