Debate contribution: Executive Priorities and Budget

Debate contribution by Mr Matthew O'Toole on 7 September 2026.

MLA: Mr Matthew O'Toole
Party at the time: Social Democratic and Labour Party
Date: 7 September 2026
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Oral Answers to Questions
Heading: Executive Priorities and Budget
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5669855

Text

Deputy First Minister, you did not answer my question. The Opposition have said that we support the Executive's efforts to secure more money, but, in refusing to set a Budget, you are pushing public services into crisis. Public servants have contacted me about the real-world consequences across health and education — you have acknowledged them on the Floor of the Assembly — of not setting a Budget. The Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann in this city in the summer proved that this wonderful region, diverse as it is, does not have to be defined by division and dysfunction, but, sadly, your party and others are determined to make it so. Do you agree that, if your Executive cannot set a Budget and agree fundamental reform of how this place works, the public will simply have had enough? They will conclude that members of the Executive —

145 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Part of an exchange

This follow-up belongs to: Topical question AQT 2531/22-27.

Assessment

Not analysed

This is the same MLA’s follow-up within the exchange on their own question. It is analysed together with that question and is not counted separately, so one question is never counted twice.

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