SDLP Social Justice spokesperson Mark H Durkan has called for the £20 uplift to Universal Credit to be extended to people receiving legacy benefits, who have not benefited from the increase.
Sait the Foyle MLA: “The £20 Universal Credit uplift has been a lifeline for stretched families during this pandemic and the SDLP fully supports maintaining it.
“Indeed our MPs will be making this case directly to the British Chancellor ahead of the Westminster budget.
“However, those on legacy benefits who have not yet migrated to Universal Credit did not receive this uplift.
“These families are facing the same struggles as those who already happen to be on the Universal Credit stream but they have been denied this much needed support.
“I have asked the Communities Minister to detail exactly how many people are in this position in Northern Ireland.
“I would urge her to join with SDLP MPs to make representations to the Department for Work and Pensions and the Treasury on this.
“Families are struggling and Minister Hargey must step up and voice her support for this uplift.”
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