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MP calls for a ‘year of delivery’

Margaret Ritchie has called on the Assembly and local government councils to make 2013 a “year of delivery” for the people of south Down. In a New Year message to constituents the South Down MP called on all levels of government to address the problems facing the people of the north. “I am very conscious that communities have suffered undue financial burdens due to the continuing economic recession,” she said. “Many people find themselves out of work but have to endure higher prices for food stuffs and essential commodities. Many high streets in towns and villages have empty shops where businesses have closed down. The Northern Ireland Executive needs to acknowledge the suffering endured by many and above all the opportunities that exist for our communities. The Executive must work in a strenuous and determined way with communities to deliver hope, opportunities and jobs for young people. My hope for 2013 is that governments work much harder to ensure that we come out of this recession. That investment is placed in sustaining and creating new jobs and in infrastructure development including roads programmes. That tourism development is given priority through the signature projects of St Patrick’s Country and the Mournes. That Ministers are empowered to enable the development of Downpatrick, Newcastle, Kilkeel and Warrenpoint through the implementation of actions already identified for economic and environmental regeneration. Emphasis must be placed on investment in health and medical care through continuing and new provision of facilities and services and the principle of local accessibility at the point of delivery must be honoured. Funding must be sourced to facilitate the provision of a first class education provision through investment in existing and new schools estate as well as continuing programmes at all levels. Central and local government policies and actions must reflect that they have put delivery for the people of south Down at the top of their agenda in 2013. That is how I will measure their success.

 

Newry Democrat

8th January 2013