Northern Ireland Finance Minister John O'Dowd has called on the British Government to prioritise funding for public services. He stated that public services require budgets that match actual needs to support families and economic growth.

O'Dowd emphasised that this funding obligation persists regardless of political events in London. He urged the British Government to supply the Executive with necessary resources.

Public services in sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, justice, and community services face pressure from inadequate budgets, according to the minister. This strain affects workers, families, and businesses.

The minister seeks a sustainable long-term financial framework for the Executive to enable planning and delivery. He also wants greater fiscal flexibility to address underinvestment.