Belfast parties wrong on rates

I am writing in response to the article in your paper of February 2, regarding the below inflation increase in Domestic Rates voted on in Belfast City Council this week.

I found the reporting did not adequately reflect the negotiation process entered into by all political parties in advance of Monday night’s vote; nor did it reference the change in legislation now governing the ‘Super Council’s with reference, in this case, to how the Rates are struck.

Firstly, I would point out that the UUP, while it opposed the increase, failed to provide an alternative, competent budget, nor did it indicate where it would make efficiencies to prevent the Rates increase. Had the party done so in advance of the meeting, Alliance Councillors would have considered it.

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Secondly, I found it a total abdication of responsibility by the DUP, PUP and Ruth Patterson to abstain on such an important vote. Their voters should take note of their weak and ineffective contribution to such a serious matter!

Paula Bradshaw, Alliance Councillor (South Belfast)