SDLP Communities Spokesperson Mark H Durkan has challenged the Communities Minister again to explain why she has not introduced a Northern Ireland Self-Isolation Grant Scheme.
People in the North of Ireland forced to self-isolate as a result of Covid-19 but who are unable to work from home, are not entitled to a £500 grant, unlike those in England, Scotland and Wales.
Mr Durkan’s call comes after the Minister missed the deadline of October 19 to respond to his Priority Assembly Question.
The MLA for Foyle said: “Making self-isolation financially unviable leaves people in the desperate situation of choosing between protecting others from the risk of Covid-19 and putting food on their table for themselves and their families.
“It is imperative that the Communities Minister introduces a Self-Isolation Grant Scheme like the ones already in place in England, Scotland and Wales.
“For many on lower paid jobs and those who cannot work from home, they are not afforded the luxury of self isolating on full pay.
“The circuit breaker has placed Northern Ireland under some of the most stringent restrictions on these islands.
“People who are doing the right thing by self-isolating to prevent the spread of the virus should not have to sacrifice their livelihoods.”
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