The Equality Commission’s controversial decision to sue Ashers Bakery has prompted TUV leader Jim Allister to propose a reduction in the funding allocation to the Commission, when the Executive’s annual spending plans come up for approval in the Assembly on Monday.
In an amendment to the departmental estimates, the TUV leader has tabled a proposal to remove £500,000 from the Equality Commission’s budget. Explaining, Mr Allister said, “Clearly the Commission has too much money if it has money to squander on persecuting a Christian bakery. So, I am giving MLAs the opportunity to express their disapproval of the conduct of the commission by cutting their budget. Such is a traditional parliamentary tactic available to backbenchers to focus attention on a matter of public concern.
“Some like to distance themselves from the Equality Commission’s despicable action by pointing out their quasi independence, but they are funded by OFMDFM and thus the estimates and vote on account are a golden opportunity to effectively mark the commission’s card. I trust all MLAs concerned by the persecution of Ashers will take the opportunity to give bite to their stance by supporting my amendment. It is good and necessary to seek statutory protection for freedom of conscience, but on Monday we have the opportunity, in addition, to give tangible effect to denunciation of the Commission’s anti-Christian agenda.
“Taking £500,000 off its budget will focus the Commission’s mind on addressing its proper role, instead of its malicious vendetta against conservative Christians.”