Clare Bailey: The DUP is inconsistent on divergence from GB

It is extremely concerning to see serious inconsistencies in the DUP's approach to Northern Ireland's place in the Union.
Letters to editorLetters to editor
Letters to editor

The people of Northern Ireland have looked on as the DUP supported regulatory divergence from the rest of the UK on many occasions in the past, on a variety of issues including donor secrecy, abortion reform and equal marriage.

They have also supported economic divergence on a number of fronts, including lobbying to implement a divergent Corporation Tax regime from the rest of the UK, with the goal of reducing corporate taxes to 12.5%.

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They also sought different APD (Air Passenger Duty) taxes here, recognising NI’s unique economic environment and appealing to Westminster for special economic status in these areas.

A bespoke arrangement for Northern Ireland – which minimises the harms and maximises the opportunities of Brexit - should not be rejected outright and we hope that the DUP bear their responsibility carefully.

Clare Bailey, South Belfast MLA, Green Party