SINN Féin Councillor Patricia Logue has branded the latest statistics showing the extent of child poverty here as a damning indictment of the impact of Tory austerity supported by the DUP.She was speaking after the End Child Poverty Coalition launched a map showing that a third of children in the north are living in poverty.
“These figures are a damning indictment of the impact of Tory austerity supported by the DUP,” she commented.
“They are also very alarming in the context that Executive departments have a statutory duty to address poverty and disadvantage and to target resources at objective need.
“Yet despite this, we are receiving reports that Bright Start initiatives, which play a vital role in addressing child poverty are facing significant proposed budget cuts.
“That is an appalling an unacceptable situation.
“Early years development is crucial in terms of combatting child poverty so it is essential that all families, particularly those living in poverty and disadvantage can access child development services such as Bright Start.
“Every action must be taken to eradicate child poverty, including ensuring these projects have access to vital resources. Cuts to this programme will only exacerbate child poverty and should be immediately scrapped.
“Children and vulnerable families should not have to pay the price for Tory-DUP austerity,” added Cllr Logue.
