Statement by TUV MLA Jim Allister:
“As we enter a period akin to a second lockdown it is nothing short of scandalous that many businesses are still waiting for the support they were promised when earlier restrictions were introduced. Hairdressers, barbers, coffee shop and restaurants have still not received the support they were promised.
“My office is currently dealing with dozens of such cases and I know MLAs in other parties have received a large number of complaints about the slowness in getting the money out as well.
“These people cannot live on air. Many businesses and individuals are at breaking point and patience with an Executive which is fond of lecturing the public is long gone when its own failures are so transparent.
“Make no mistake about it – if the issue was a lack of funding from Westminster there would be no end of complaining and carping from Stormont. The issue is not that the money isn’t there – London has been incredibly generous and the package underscores the benefits of U.K. membership. The problem, as so often, is with Stormont.
“This intolerable situation cannot go on. It needs to be resolved urgently.
“There is not much point dangling the prospect of prepaid cards – again uploaded with taxpayers’ money – in front of the public when many of the businesses one would hope the money will be sent in won’t be there in a few weeks’ time unless this matter is resolved.”