Statement by TUV South Belfast candidate Andrew Girvin:
“While politicians will downplay the significance of the plastic bag levy rising from 5p to 25p today as a shop owner I know that the issue is very much a live one which annoys consumers. Many people find themselves popping into a business and finding that they purchase more than they originally intended or simply don’t have the presence of mind to lift a bag before leaving the house.
“People deserve to know that when it came to the debate on this issue in the Assembly TUV alone objected to the hike with Jim Allister noting:
“I cannot support the proposal, primarily because of the extortionate 500% increase involved. It may be on a very selective item, but it comes in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis. To me, it is wholly punitive and beyond anything that, in conscience, should be considered. From 5p to 25p may not sound much or be much to many Members of the House, but, cumulatively, it could be too much for those who struggle. It is wrong-headed at this time, and it is not appropriate for the House to indulge in an increase of such massive proportions.”
“At a time when the cost of every day essentials is skyrocketing this is one extra bill which hard pressed families can do without. They deserve to know that when it came to decided on the issue TUV alone stood in their corner”.