Jim Allister: If RHI had happened anywhere else, heads would have rolled over it


The RHI report confirms a catalogue of abysmal failure and astounding bungling by those who presented themselves, either as ministers, civil servants or SpAds, as competent, specialist and trustworthy. This was squander Made in Stormont.
By spreading the blame widely some may have escaped the sharper criticism that they deserved. Yet, the question remains ‘will there be consequences for anyone?’
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdIn any other jurisdiction it is hard to imagine that heads would not roll. But here, even the concept that the buck stops with the minister when a department spectacularly fails, as DETI did, has become so muted that a pre-emptive apology seems to do. It is actions, not words that count.


The report is littered with findings which underscore the need for legislation on the functioning of government, such as I am proposing.
Through the Second Stage vote on my Private Member’s Bill on Monday I hope to separate the wheat of action from the chaff of mere words.
Jim Allister QC, TUV MLA