SDLP leader Colum Eastwood
The Foyle MP said that while further announcements today are welcome, there is no discernible logic or consistency in the Executive’s decision making process.
Said Mr Eastwood: “A number of the announcements made by the First Ministers today are welcome and will help gradually increase economic activity in line with scientific advice.
“But over three months into this crisis and there still seems to be very little discernible logic or consistency in the decision making process.
“That’s a growing concern.
“Before any lockdown restrictions were considered, the SDLP called for a detailed plan with indicative timelines that would allow people, communities and businesses to prepare for significant changes.
“Instead, what we’ve had is a series of reactive announcements which appear to be based on the loudest lobbying voices rather than any strategic plan.
“There’s no consistency and no logic to it.
“We’re left in the bizarre situation, for example, where families can plan to meet up in retail outlets or pubs but have no indication of when they might see each other in their own homes.
“And we have entire sectors that have no idea when they can safely return to business or what guidelines may be in place to support them.
“This ad hoc approach does not serve the needs of workers or businesses.
“What is needed is a strategic plan with indicative timelines.
“This is a position the SDLP has pushed instead and outside of the Executive.
“People will understand if timeframes shift because of a change in the R number – in fact the Executive has prefaced every easement with that line – but they will not understand being kept in the dark while decisions are made for others with no logic to the sequencing.
“The Executive Office should lead on this project and provide certainty to people quickly,” added the Foyle MP.
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