Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:-
“The Communities Minister, Paul Given, comes to office with many destructive policies by his predecessor requiring to be addressed. It will be a test of his mettle as to how he addresses these issues.
“Thus, as a reminder, I have tabled the following Assembly Questions to him:-
“To ask Minister for Communities when will the Loifa programme come to an end.
“To ask Minister for Communities will he urgently review the basis of grant aid to boxing clubs so that those not affiliated to the Irish Boxing Association can qualify.
“To ask Minister for Communities what steps he proposes to take to encourage the establishment and recognition of a Northern Ireland Federation of Boxing Clubs.
“To ask Minister for Communities what steps he proposes to take to ensure Northern Ireland athletes can represent either Northern Ireland or the United Kingdom in international events.”
“It is vital that the inequities inflicted on boxing clubs, such as that in Sandy Row, are reversed and, likewise, that parity of esteem and opportunity is brought to athletes wishing to represent their own country. The previous minister’s approach was a bigoted disgrace.
“Hence my call on Minister Given to urgently address these issues. I trust he will respond positively.”