BUILD FUTURE A BETTER - SDLP MANIFESTO 2016
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
BUILD
A BETTER
FUTURE
SDLP MANIFESTO 2016
1
SDLP Ministers
A Record of Real Achievement in Government
At any one time the SDLP has held only one of the Department to the less well off councils so that they could
twelve Departments in Government since devolution maintain services without increasing the burden on ratepayers.
returned under DUP/SF control. Despite the general
failure of DUP and SF in nine years in charge, SDLP Planning
SDLP Ministers transformed planning in Northern Ireland by
BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE
Ministers have a strong track record of delivery.
initiating new planning policies to facilitate development of our
tourism infrastructure and renewable energy development. They
Regeneration introduced PPS21 to bring a less restrictive approach to
The SDLP in both DSD and DoE was responsible for the positive development in the countryside while at the same time ensuring CONTENTS PAGE NO.
transformation of many of Northern Ireland’s most notable town proper protection of the environment. It was Mark H Durkan who
centres and urban spaces. A particular success was the established a planning policy presumption that all applications for
Newcastle seafront public realm scheme which has not only ‘fracking’ in Northern Ireland would be refused. MESSAGE FROM COLUM EASTWOOD 4
transformed the appearance of the town but doubled the footfall
and boosted the local economy. SDLP Ministers delivered the Plastic Bags Levy PROGRESSIVE NATIONALISM 5
Victoria Square retail development in Belfast and a major public The single-use carrier bag levy was one of the few tangible
realm scheme in Belfast city centre. legislative achievements of the outgoing Executive and it was
delivered by the SDLP.
PROTECTING OUR PLACE IN EUROPE 8
In addition Margaret Ritchie, Alex Attwood and Mark H Durkan all
made the regeneration of Derry a top priority. Among many The levy has been hugely successful in meeting its original aim of A VIBRANT ECONOMY 10
other things delivered, these SDLP Ministers delivered the Peace changing behaviour so that there are far fewer bags littering the
Bridge, the Guildhall Square regeneration, city centre public environment. Despite a 70% reduction in the use of these bags STRATEGY FOR GROWTH 13
realm, the Walls lighting scheme and the rebirth of Ebrington. the levy has nonetheless generated over £5 million in revenue.
SDLP also delivered the regeneration of town centres in Lurgan,
Armagh city, Downpatrick, Newry city, Lisburn city, Portadown,
This has been allocated to a very wide range of environmental
schemes and projects – to organisations such as the Mourne
A NEW DEAL FOR STUDENTS AND APPRENTICES 15
Dungannon and many more. Heritage Trust and the Lough Neagh Partnership – who without
the levy would not have been able to do this valuable work. WORLD CLASS INFRASTRUCTURE 16
Community Development
SDLP Ministers in Government provided consistent support for Innovation – shining a light A NEW FORMULA FOR FAIRNESS 19
local communities, particularly the most disadvantaged The SDLP in Government has always questioned why continuing
communities, through a range of interventions. It was the SDLP challenges or problems are just accepted without a radical change POLICING AND JUSTICE 22
who got the Neighbourhood Renewal partnerships up and of approach to solve them.
running and delivering millions of pounds of investment directly
into communities. For the first time ever it was SDLP Ministers who gripped issues PROTECTING PEOPLE FROM CRIME 25
such as beach cleanliness, environmental crime, wildfires, urban
SDLP investments in childcare, training, IT suites elderly services dereliction, archaeological integrity in development and heritage HEALTH AND WELLBEING 26
and adult education have been accompanied by the provision of a crime, and brought new approaches and solutions. Unprecedently,
multiplicity of community facilities. Local areas have been Alex Attwood organised a series of ‘summits’ around many of EDUCATION 30
improved with the provision of brand new high quality children’s these issues where all of the relevant players were brought
playgrounds and multi-use games facilities (MUGAs). In many together to hammer out an action plan and then implement it
communities the local GAA club has received support to enhance against a meaningful timetable. A BETTER DEAL FOR WORKING PARENTS 32
its facilities and its contribution to community wellbeing. In
Lurgan alone ALL of the local GAA clubs have had generous This led to such initiatives as Urgent Works Orders – requiring HOMES AND COMMUNITIES 33
grant aid for new facilities thanks to a SDLP minister in DSD. owners of decaying properties to carry out immediate protective
works or face significant sanction. Another example was bringing ENVIRONMENT 37
Local Government Reform in new sources of external finance, previously untapped, to finance
After years of political stalemate around the Review of Public a much higher level of social house building.
Administration (RPA) it was the SDLP – Alex Attwood and Mark H
AGRICULTURE 39
Durkan who finally delivered the new councils and provided for a Effectiveness in the Executive
smooth transition without the much feared hike in rates. The new The sole SDLP Minister in the Executive over the last nine years, HUMAN RIGHTS 42
arrangements will ultimately improve service delivery at local level has always punched above their weight around the Executive
and at the same time save millions of pounds of ratepayers’ table. It was SDLP Ministers who called DUP/SF to account on CULTURE, ARTS AND LEISURE 44
money which councils can spend on other things. issues like Red Sky, their early ideas about the Social
Investment Fund, any attempts to carve things up or bypass
Despite major cuts to his DOE budget, Mark H Durkan maintained proper process. It was Mark H Durkan who stopped the DUP/SF ADDRESSING THE PAST 46
and guaranteed the level of rate support grant given by his attempted power-grab over major planning decisions.
POLITICAL REFORM 48
33
Message froM ColuM eastwood ProgressIve NatIoNalIsM
Northern Ireland needs a new alternative.
At home and abroad we face significant challenges for This election is a chance to reverse a decade of failure.
our society, our economy and for our future. The It is a chance to vote for change.
resilient spirit of the people of the North will ensure that
by working together we can face these challenges This manifesto embodies that change.
head-on.
On May 5th a vote for the SDLP is a vote to build a
This manifesto offers a tonic to the cynicism which has better future.
seeped into our political arena and its discourse. It is a
manifesto deliberately filled with optimism. If we follow
the right path and if we make the right choices, we can Colum eastwood
build a better future. SDLP Leader
At every election time we are offered a different choice.
In this Assembly election the SDLP are that new
choice. Ours is a rapidly changing party determined to
bring real change to Northern Ireland and to the island.
That means an end to the underfunding of our
education system, that means an end to the export of
our young workers, that means an end to the chronic
problems which plague the health service and it means
an end to poverty of all forms and an end to Tory
austerity.
It is time for a new type of nationalism. The SDLP’s new Building a new devolution
This SDLP manifesto roots our politics in policy and vision of Progressive Nationalism will move the ground
ideas. It is a manifesto grounded in the challenges upon which the constitutional debate on this island settlement
faced by people in their everyday lives. It is a manifesto rests.
which sets out how we will build a better future for all Making Northern Ireland work will require significant
changes to our original devolution settlement.
who live here. for Ireland to be reunited, Northern
Any future government we take part in must support Ireland has to work. Centralised power is a concept rooted in the past. The
children, young people, young workers, families and extensive federal and devolution settlements, which
older people. It must be a government of substance Our aspiration to share political union with the rest of have for some time been a feature of other European
and delivery, not just symbolism. the island is now inextricably linked with our ability to democracies, are gaining and growing in relevance
build a shared and successful social and economic throughout these islands. From the Smith Commission,
The SDLP offers the voters certainty in this election. We framework here in the North. Unity will be achieved to the implementation of City Deals across England and
will only enter a government in May which delivers on through the success of both jurisdictions, not by their Scotland, more and more centralised power is being
pledges. When voters go to cast their ballots they can failure. pushed downwards and outwards.
have certainty that a strong SDLP will deliver the
pledges we make in this document. That means building up the strength and knowledge of The SDLP believes we must make the most of this
our economy, it means giving our young people the opportunity.
dignity and security of a job and it means creating an
infrastructure which can support our people. The Northern Ireland Executive must embrace
the responsibility of an enhanced devolution
It is in all our interests to make Northern settlement which provides us with the power to
Ireland work. shape our own future.
4 5
ProgressIve NatIoNalIsM
The SDLP believes that devolving corporation tax, while The SDLP will also seek to establish joint teams structure, what kind of public service and private sector The Commission for a New Ireland will attempt
welcome, is simply not enough. We want to see the comprising personnel from the IDA and Invest NI from structure and what kind of civic structure a new, united to escape from merely talking about unity by
negotiated devolution of many more fiscal powers and the autumn of 2016 in anticipation of the North’s Ireland will comprise. actually putting in the hard yards of research
levers but also of those functions like telecoms and corporation tax cut in 2018. This sharing of expertise which will see it delivered.
broadcasting not currently devolved. We will also seek and experience would allow the island to Scotland’s plan for independence contained 670 pages
to begin immediate negotiations with the British maximise our supply of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). of work. It scoped out and modelled what a new Irish Unity is not an idea that we in the SDLP
Treasury to introduce and implement new City Deals in Scotland would look like. Irish nationalism must match simply commemorate, instead it is something
the North. Too often though, North-South co-operation has been that level of practicality. We must do the same. that we continue to aspire to. This Commission
limited to the implementation of individual projects, will form the basis of our plan to deliver it.
The SDLP will also think longer and go further. We will rather than bringing to fruition a more strategic and
seek the support of other parties to begin negotiations ongoing integration of the island economy and its
with London on a long-term financial framework which infrastructure.
will give Northern Ireland sufficient financial
security to take on long term transitions such as The SDLP will work with the Irish Government to
our own tax system and our own welfare system. develop all-island plans for infrastructure, energy,
planning, tourism, health, higher education, research
Such a financial compact will be for thirty or more and development and enterprise. These plans would be
years and would remain in place should Ireland be jointly commissioned, funded and would draw on
unified during this time. expertise from bodies such as the ESRI and the Centre
for Cross Border Studies among others.
It would allow us to build a Northern Ireland which
Years of neglect for the North-South institutions must
actually works.
be remedied. Only by working together across the
island can we realise the full potential of our economy
Building towards the New Ireland and our society.
Although institutional change has most often been
Building a framework for unity
focused on Belfast, the SDLP believes that national
institutions in Dublin must also evolve. In combination with the practical and impartial policy
work as outlined above, it will also be crucial to give a
With the reform of Seanad Éireann remaining on the more overtly political roadmap for Irish unity.
political agenda in the South, the SDLP will lobby the
incoming Irish Government to ensure that Northern Early in the next Assembly term the SDLP will
representation becomes an official and permanent part establish a Commission for a New Ireland. It will
of the Oireachtas. This would naturally include both comprise both SDLP members and non-members from
Nationalist and Unionist representation. across the island. It will begin a process of answering
the many unanswered questions on Irish unity.
The SDLP will also press the incoming Irish
Government to finally extend voting rights in It will have two main tasks.
presidential elections to Northern citizens as well as to
the diaspora. The first task is to conduct a political audit on the
current state of North-South affairs, the workings of the
Key North-South projects which have been long left North-South institutions, an all Ireland consultation, as
neglected must now be prioritised immediately by the well as civic and business co-operation.
new Executive. These include finally beginning work on
the A5, finally building the Narrow Water Bridge and The second task will put flesh on the bones of what a
once more kick-starting the North West Gateway reunified Ireland will look like. It will provide an analysis
Initiative. and recommendations on what kind of institutional
6 7
ProteCtINg our PlaCe IN euroPe
Like every human institution, it is not perfect but like The SDLP is not prepared to put these benefits at risk.
democracy itself, it is better than the alternatives. Northern Ireland’s interest is best served as part of
Europe. Ireland’s interest is best served as part of
In Northern Ireland the benefits of our membership of Europe.
the European Union are clear for our economy and our
society. As part of our referendum campaign we will also seek
to support those foreign nationals who work, contribute
The EU has helped to erode the border as an economic and have made their home here in Northern Ireland.
barrier, allowing freedom of movement, travel and work The SDLP will campaign to ensure that our neighbours,
North and South. friends and colleagues from Poland, Slovakia,
Lithuania, Latvia and across the European Union won’t
The EU facilitates Foreign Direct Investment - the single face the prospect of their families being divided
market creates new opportunities and helps our small through a withdrawal from the European Union.
businesses export successfully.
This European campaign is not a question of nationalist
Through the Special EU Programmes Body, Northern against unionist or even of left versus right, but a
Ireland has received extensive funding, better known as matter of centrality or peripherality, certainty or
the PEACE funds, to build and strengthen our confusion, stability or instability. Above all it is a
community and infrastructure. question of inclusion or isolation.
Through the basic payment in agriculture, Northern The SDLP will lead the fight in convincing Northern
Ireland’s agri-food sector has been able to diversify Ireland to stay IN Europe.
and grow its export markets.
The In/Out European referendum on June 23rd is fast SDLP are proudly part of a broader continental identity.
approaching. The importance of this once in a
generation vote is difficult to underestimate. Our referendum campaign will reflect this continued
commitment. The SDLP has already held a number of
Withdrawal from the European Union represents the campaign meetings across the North and our
single greatest threat to Northern Ireland’s economic campaign to keep Northern Ireland in Europe will
security. In purely financial terms, it is estimated intensify between now and June 23rd.
withdrawal would cost the Northern Ireland economy at
least £1 billion annually. As a party we have always known that political and
economic isolationism is more likely to lead to conflict
This cost is not abstract. It is a real cost which would and economic depression. We have always known that
be paid by businesses, farmers and families right peace is to be found in dialogue and celebration of
across the North. The SDLP will campaign vigorously to difference and that prosperity is to be found in
ensure that such a burden is not placed on all of us co-operation and free movement. At its best, this is still
who live here. what the European Union represents.
The SDLP’s commitment to the European Union Co-operation between nations is needed, now more
remains steadfast. Europe as a vision, model and arena than ever, to bring solutions to the immediate and long
of politics has always been of huge importance to our term crises we all face in terms of tax avoidance,
party. It has been at the core of our identity and ethos climate change and humanitarian assistance. We must
since our party’s foundation in the early 1970s. The work in Europe to help find these solutions.
8 9
a vIBraNt eCoNoMy
Investment in further education, skills provision and ensure positions in employment are
apprenticeships and skills filled. In Northern Ireland delivering STEM related
apprenticeships is essential.
In order to compete for highly mobile, high value-added
Foreign Direct Investment Northern Ireland needs to be The SDLP believes that apprenticeships must be
able to offer an appropriately skilled work-force. enhanced so they become an attractive alternative to
Therefore our people, particularly young people, need further education and one that delivers sustainable
to be up-skilled to be competitive in the global employment.
marketplace.
The SDLP is committed to delivering the expansion of
While all job investment is welcome, FDI call-centre the Magee campus at Ulster University.
projects, for example, do not develop high productivity
sectors in our workforce and ultimately compete Prioritising key economic sectors
internationally on price. We need to raise skill levels to
attract the more lucrative FDI investments in the Every modern, open economy must prioritise
Information and Communications Technology sector investment in its most competitive assets by
and other professional services. Investments in these channelling resources to those sectors where it is in
sectors create well paid employment for software the best position to compete internationally while
engineers, lawyers, creative design professionals as generating wealth domestically. The SDLP will continue
well as administrative staff. to support our traditional primary, manufacturing and
services sectors while prioritising new sectors where
To achieve our goals we must refocus support for third we see potential for growth and export.
level education toward the STEM subjects and the
The Northern Ireland regional economy lags behind the - Prioritising key economic sectors areas where graduates can add maximum immediate In Northern Ireland our priority sectors include agri-
UK average on many of the key measures of economic - Gaining control of more economic levers. value to employers and the economy. food, tourism and ICT. In these sectors we have
performance including productivity. There is an developed a degree of competitive advantage.
underdeveloped private sector and an over-reliance on We also need to ensure that Northern Ireland remains The SDLP will provide additional focused support for
the public sector and government subsidy. In particular inside the European Union. third-level students and refocus existing skills provision gaining control of further economic levers
the Northern Ireland economy lacks the dynamism of to ensure we better meet the future needs of a modern
a focus on job creation fast moving economy. At present the main instrument of Government
the neighbouring economy of the south of Ireland
where, after a deep recession, the recovery has intervention in the economy is control over how public
Above all else, the Northern Ireland economy can only The SDLP recognises that further education is not the expenditure is directed. However as health, education
gathered pace and GDP growth is running at grow and develop if it generates more employment and
over 6%. only route available in delivering a high skilled, high and justice account for 75% of the Northern Ireland
focuses on securing better paid jobs. More jobs
enhances society by alleviating poverty and making wage economy. The SDLP believe that the development budget there is limited scope for driving the economy
The planned development of the Northern Ireland sure that as many people as possible have the dignity of skills through quality apprenticeships is essential to forward from public expenditure alone. The Northern
economy also needs to focus on ensuring a fair of work. More jobs will also stem the flow of our young improving the economy, stimulating work and Ireland Executive therefore needs to get control of
regional balance. This applies in particular to people emigrating in pursuit of a better economic delivering new success in Northern Ireland. further economic levers, not only the power to lower
investment in infrastructure and inward investment. It future. corporation tax, but new tax-raising and borrowing
also applies to training and skills and to ensuring The Northern Ireland Executive has traditionally powers. The Executive also needs to be more
This means every area of investment and expenditure underperformed in terms of apprenticeships and skills resourceful in drawing down European funds and other
opportunity exists in less well-off areas of the North. must be assessed in terms of its capacity to support
The SDLP believes that the Northern Ireland economy training. The result is that we currently have a low new approaches to financing infrastructure
existing employment and to generate new jobs. wage, low skilled economy with fewer apprenticeship
can only grow more rapidly if it adopts a number of key investment.
policy priorities. These priorities comprise the SDLP places in comparison to the rest of Europe.
However the focus must be on the creation of the most
prosperity process and include: productive employment that contributes to economic The SDLP will drive for greater control of economic
- A focus on job creation growth. Therefore there is a need for a rebalancing of The SDLP believes if we are to deliver apprenticeships levers through more devolution from the UK
- Investment in further education and skills employment in favour of the highest value-added we must ensure greater co-operation between Government. An enhanced devolutionary settlement will
sectors. employers and our education system. Employer led give us much greater influence over economic policy.
apprenticeship models can directly address gaps in
10 11
a vIBraNt eCoNoMy strategy for growth
and specifically, coding. We intend to establish a Digital
Technology and Coding Academy during the next
Assembly mandate.
We believe we must:
• Focus support for third level education toward the
STEAM subjects and the areas graduates can add
maximum immediate value to employers and the
economy.
• Refocus existing skills provision to ensure
we better meet the future needs of a modern fast
moving global economy.
Public sector reform
The SDLP believes that there is considerable scope to
improve the operation of the public sector by raising
productivity to improve services. The SDLP believes
that the streamlining of the public sector to date could
have been achieved by prudent management rather
than by borrowing huge amounts of capital to finance a
severance scheme. The end of the civil service pay
freeze must mean increases for lower paid civil
Building for Better foreign manufacturers and support further
servants. It cannot be used to fund more special
In order to ensure a stronger private sector delivering development of our home grown industry. This will aim
advisers or rehire at the highest levels.
more jobs which are better paid the SDLP will design to create an additional 7,000 jobs between now and
and implement ‘Building for Better’ - a strategy which 2021.
Corporation tax will boost our local economy. Its key vision is better
jobs, better wages and a better economy. Increase our level of exports & FDI
The SDLP has campaigned for many years for the Companies from Northern Ireland primarily export to
devolution of corporation tax powers. The setting of a
third level education Agri-food other parts of the UK or the Republic of Ireland, with
date and a rate provides a significant opportunity for
The agri-food industry in Northern Ireland has itself limited exports to Europe or the rest of the world.
expansion by local companies and for us to attract
The SDLP will strive to ensure a proper alignment produced an ambitious strategy for growth and this The SDLP will ensure that Invest NI and local economic
investment from foreign businesses. Growth in these
between the skills development and higher education must be facilitated by government. The sector is jobs development agencies strengthen and co-ordinate
two areas has been the bedrock of the current
services currently offered by the training and higher intensive and can serve the dual purpose of existing links abroad, and build new links through the
economic boom in the Republic and is the only way we
education sector. We must identify the future needs of maintaining our existing farming base and supporting Republic’s IDA and UK Trade & Investment. We must
can stop the forced emigration of young workers every
a growing high value-added economy, which will year. rural employment while offering limitless potential for ensure that the region becomes a hub for exports.
require an ongoing dialogue with industry and with high value food production. There is considerable Relying solely on domestic demand is not enough.
universities so that this evolution can get underway The Northern Ireland market is too small for local scope for expanding Northern Ireland’s export base in We will also lead a refocus of FDI and export efforts to
smoothly. demand to deliver significant growth. That means we this sector to delivering at least 15,000 jobs by 2021. Europe in addition to North America. Northern Ireland is
need to compete on the world stage to sell products part of the world’s biggest domestic market and we
This will mean directing more of our efforts towards the and services and to attract companies to Northern Agree and implement a Northern Ireland must make the most of this opportunity. The devolution
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Ireland. Manufacturing Strategy of corporation tax in 2018 will see the creation of
Maths) subjects which will be in greatest demand in This will support the development of ‘factories for the 3,000 direct FDI jobs by 2021 and will create an
the new economy and which will form the bedrock of It is also critically important that we retain our place in future’ and encourage companies to become more additional 1,500 jobs indirectly.
future well paid jobs. It will also mean training more the European Union to ensure maximum benefit from consumer-focused and innovative. It will also
young people in the skills of the future in particular ICT any devolution in corporation tax powers. position Northern Ireland as an attractive place for
12 13
strategy for growth
OUR PLEDGE
NI Digital Technology and Coding Academy competitive; reducing red-tape; ensuring full use of
The SDLP will establish Northern Ireland’s first Digital
Technology and Coding Academy. This will provide real-
modern digital technology, protecting our environment
and supporting food and drink and other niche areas.
a New deal for studeNts aNd aPPreNtICes
time and online coding and digital education for people The SDLP will also ensure that Northern Ireland is
of all ages across Northern Ireland. The Academy will included in the island’s ‘Wild Atlantic Way’.
be the home for technology start-up and accelerator
programmes and will also ensure that their reach To ensure we gain the most from this opportunity we
stretches across the North. This will be accompanied also need to ensure our tourism and hospitality sectors
by a new Digital Technology Strategy, which will directly can offer the best possible service. The SDLP have
link with the Department of Education to ensure that already delivered reforms in the regulation
coding and technology feature in all schools. By 2021, of taxis allowing the night-time economy to grow while
Northern Ireland will have ten “Tech Towns” generating ensuring people can travel home safely. We also
7,000, new jobs in an expanded ICT sector and where believe that it is time to reform the licensing laws in
awareness and skills in digital technology have Northern Ireland to allow our restaurants, bars and
increased dramatically. hotels to continue attracting tourists from across the
world. Focused investment in tourism will generate
Increase skills, productivity and job market 6,000 new jobs by 2021 .We will continue to
awareness campaign for the rate of VAT in the tourism and
Reduced corporation tax is not enough to attract hospitality sectors to be reduced to 5%.
foreign investment. While government has a role to
play in improving productivity, the SDLP will introduce a Making government work for jobs
‘Productivity Partnership’ initiative whereby industry The financial priorities of the next NI Executive must be
leaders are supported in efforts to share knowledge targeted at those areas which have the biggest benefit
and best practice with firms who struggle with lower for the Northern Ireland economy. That is why we will A properly funded and accessible university and A system where all young people can access third
productivity. The ‘Productivity Partnership’ will also ensure that funding in future governments is aimed vocational training system is vital if today’s teenagers level education and training is the norm across Europe.
assist schools and universities in building towards sectors which deliver maximum value in terms are to gain meaningful employment in tomorrow’s That is the system our young people deserve. That is
awareness of our local job market by assisting with of employment and infrastructure improvement. We will economy. the system the SDLP will introduce.
school and university placements. undertake capital appraisal so that resources are not
wasted on vanity projects. Government must ensure Severe financial cuts have been placed on our We will reduce student fees,
Building our Tourism Sector we get the full benefit of EU funding to support our universities. That means fewer places which are harder reverse cuts to student places
Northern Ireland has managed to protect some of the economy. to access. Young people either don’t proceed to third and increase investment in
most unspoilt and beautiful parts of Ireland and offers level education or are forced away.
Support for Small & Medium Enterprises apprenticeships.
an attractive destination to both international and
domestic tourists. The tourism industry provides a Small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) are vital Thirty percent of our young people travel to Britain
living for thousands of people across Northern Ireland, for a flourishing economy with healthy job creation. The each year to study where fees are higher and were
SDLP will ensure that SMEs operate in an environment they incur more debt. Two thirds of those who leave This will be accompanied by reform of our university
particularly in coastal towns. Tourism in the North is
which supports their growth by enhancing broadband never return. sector to deliver an increased focus on STEAM
worth over £750 million to the local economy, and is
provision across Northern Ireland, reducing subjects and in other areas which are undersupplied.
responsible for 43,000 jobs. It can go much further as
government payment terms to 14 days, helping more The SDLP will reverse the recent cuts in university The SDLP is also committed to increased language
a driver of investment and employment.
SMEs trade online and ensuring that all public sector places and fund increased student places in Northern teaching at universities, especially as part of
Our tourism and hospitality sectors require urgent contracts are advertised on Central Procurement. Over Ireland, including at Ulster University, Magee. In mainstream degree courses.
reform if we are to capitalise on our potential. As part 26,000 SMEs will directly benefit from Corporation Tax addition, we will ensure additional investment in
of Building for Better we will ensure all our tourist and we will also ensure that Invest NI, UK Trade and apprenticeships. To build a better future we need to make sure our
destinations are given proper profile. That means Investment and local Enterprise Agencies strengthen children and young people possess skills which are
enhancing tourism facilities on our coastline, support provided to small businesses wishing to trade We will also reduce the portion of the tuition fee paid valuable on a global stage. That means broadening
mountains and other areas of outstanding natural here and abroad. by students to minimise the debt burden on young access and ensuring that as many of our young people
beauty; enhancing licensing laws to ensure we remain people and ensure comprehensive access to third level complete third level education and training as possible.
education.
14 15
world Class INfrastruCture
A prosperous economy requires a modern and resilient road safety The SDLP support improved connectivity between our now have a unified control of the Rivers Agency, Harbour
physical infrastructure. That means investment in airports and rail services. Access to airports through Gateways, Inland Waterways and Waterways Ireland.
transport networks, telecommunications, water, energy The SDLP believes that in delivering new road direct railways is a hallmark of most major European This presents new opportunities to support waterway
and tourism. The SDLP is committed to a significant investment we must also ensure the maintenance of and international cities and it is essential to expanding recreational pursuits and generate tourism. The SDLP
step change in Executive investment in infrastructure our current road network while delivering greater safety Northern Ireland as a business and tourist destination. will direct new investment in the development of
after years of underinvestment and non-delivery. We for all road users. The SDLP has a strong record of waterways, canals and Lake Districts in areas such as
believe this can be funded through the block grant, by promoting road safety and in 2015-16 the SDLP We will: Foyle, Erne, Lower Bann and Fermanagh to create new
more effective draw down from European Infrastructure Environment Minister Mark H Durkan allocated £1.5 • Support the redevelopment of the Knockmore line businesses in leisure, retail and hospitality.
funds, through partnerships with local councils and by million to road safety communication and has to include a Belfast International Airport connection.
agreeing new city and regional devolution deals. championed multiple campaigns warning against • Enhance connectivity between the Bangor line and Narrow water Bridge
reckless driving. Investment in road upgrades will help Belfast City Airport.
improve road safety and ensure access across the • Build a railway halt at the City of Derry Airport to The SDLP remains committed to the Narrow Water
roads Bridge project and the SDLP will ensure that the
North. Areas such as the A26 in Antrim or the A32 in enhance connectivity to the city.
A vibrant and equitable economy cannot operate Fermanagh demonstrate the need for ongoing • Enhance the Belfast Dublin train connection to development of the project is at the forefront of the
without a modern roads network. For decades chronic investment in our current road network to deliver better improve competitiveness. next Executive’s infrastructural agenda. As a new
underinvestment means that today Northern Ireland’s outcomes. • Re-establish a railway connection to Armagh City. economic corridor it will transform the local economies
road network is no longer fit for purpose. • Develop strategic public transport hubs in key of South Down and Louth by developing a stronger
The SDLP will: towns. North-South economic partnership, increasing tourism
The SDLP will prioritise the completion of the A5 and • Ensure sufficient funding for effective road safety • Establish a mini-flyover crossing system for Lurgan and creating new opportunities for investment. The
A6, delivering access to towns and cities right across communication. to tackle congestion. SDLP will ensure that all commitments to the project
the North. Sinn Fein and the DUP’s proposed funding • Argue for a multi-year minimum road maintenance are met and that the £14m SEUPB funding is once
model cannot and will not deliver these projects on budget to ensure our roads are safe. again secured.
• Create Road Investment packages to target and great greenways
time or within budget. The SDLP will explore additional
upgrade our current road network. The SDLP believes that the redevelopment of our
funding options to ensure these projects happen.
greenways and certain disused railway lines represent
At present Northern Ireland has no roads strategy - we Uniquely among Northern Ireland's large towns, Lurgan
a unique opportunity for community-based
will agree a roads strategy for the next twenty years, in has a series of railway crossings which damage local
amenity, limit access and constrain the social and infrastructural development. The Great Western
conjunction with the Dublin government, to ensure we Greenway in Mayo remains a testament to the
economic development of Lurgan town and its
have a modern roads infrastructure for the 21st economic benefits that greenway redevelopment can
Craigavon hinterland. This is at its worst at Lurgan
century. bring. Greenway development will help build
railway station on the main road linking
Lurgan/Craigavon with the M1 motorway - where there sustainable tourism such as walking, cycling and
In addition to the major roads linking Belfast and Dublin is congestion and traffic tailbacks all day long. geotourism. The development of such Greenways will
with Derry, the SDLP is calling for a road-building deliver jobs in construction, hospitality and tourism.The water and sewerage Infrastructure
programme spanning: The SDLP has succeeded in getting plans for a brand SDLP will explore plans for cycling and walking
new Lurgan railway station into Northern Ireland's Greenways to include: In the last election the SDLP committed itself to
• The planned Ballynahinch bypass. infrastructure development programme (ISNI). We will • Glens of Antrim Greenway opposing the imposition of water charges on the
• A major upgrade of the road between Newry and insist that this project incorporates an appropriate • Greenway of Thrones (North Antrim) people of Northern Ireland and in the Assembly we
Downpatrick (to maximise the benefit of the Narrow lowering of the track to allow a short traffic flyover • Comber to Ballynahinch have continued to uphold that position. The SDLP
Water Bridge and to open up the Mournes). which permanently ends the congestion at the William • Cookstown to Magherafelt rejected calls for the implementation of new rates and
• Major improvement of the Northern Ireland side of Street/Lough Road level crossing. • Cookstown to Dungannon voted positively on the Water and Sewerage Act which
the A4/N16 between Enniskillen and Sligo. • Downpatrick to Newcastle allowed the Executive greater flexibility on subsidies to
• A dedicated link road from the M1 to the A1 at a real railway Policy NI Water. We have worked to ensure the Executive's
Lisburn to allow Belfast – Dublin traffic to move pledge to not apply household charges to domestic
uninterrupted by the congested Sprucefield The SDLP believes that a modern Northern Ireland Better waterways consumers was upheld and we will continue to oppose
junction. must have modern rail infrastructure and we will Increased interest in water based activities presents water charges. The SDLP will direct new funding in
ensure the continued development of a modern railway Northern Ireland with new prospects in tourism and water infrastructure aimed at tackling historical under
system throughout the North and across the island. town investment. The Department for Infrastructure will investment.
16 17
world Class INfrastruCture OUR PLEDGE
The Water and Sewerage Act has brought a new • Prioritise the insulation of homes and businesses
alignment between water and sewerage responsibilities to ensure energy efficiency and reduce energy a New forMula for faIrNess
with flood related responsibilities. In the next mandate consumption, thereby reducing bills.
the Executive will now be more able to effectively
combat and mitigate flooding throughout Northern
Ireland. The SDLP will invest and secure Hard (artificial
interventions) and Soft (naturally occurring landscapes)
Sustainable Drainage Systems to guarantee the
reduction of flood water volumes. We will further invest
in water and sewerage provision for rural areas.
securing energy
The SDLP recognises that energy security remains a
barrier to the expansion of manufacturing businesses
and high energy costs continue to negatively affect
homes across Northern Ireland. The SDLP believes it is
critical we ensure competitiveness and security in our
energy infrastructure and that it makes no sense that
one island should have separate systems both North
and South delivering energy needs.
The SDLP will;
• Remove barriers to effective, modern energy
infrastructure.
• Develop a long term energy strategy that seeks to The last nine years have seen the emergence of a We will also lead the way to redouble efforts by
provide new energy investment and deliver telecommunications gross disparity in government support and investment government departments to work with colleagues in
competitive prices. across different regions of the North. West Belfast for local government to support this process.
• Develop a new Green Investment Deal to retrofit It is vital that more powers for telecommunications and example received just 1.19% of available Invest NI
housing and to invest in energy efficiencies for broadcasting are devolved to Northern Ireland. Our land assistance. Any government that the SDLP takes part This will remove the unfair gaps in investment and end
businesses. border with the Republic and the changing nature of in will end this injustice. the attempt to economically repartition Northern
• Support progress made in the creation of an all- broadcasting means that the current model is Ireland. Target areas will include: North Belfast, West
island electricity market and replicate this success unsustainable. Investment across three areas - job support and Belfast, Derry, Fermanagh, Tyrone, Armagh, Newry and
in an all island gas market. promotion from Invest NI, regional infrastructure others.
• Support investment in the North by extending the The SDLP will: projects and education and training will be
natural gas network to all major loads and • Seek further devolution of telecoms & broadcasting co-ordinated and targeted for areas and projects where
population centres in Northern Ireland. powers. it is required most urgently. This will include specific
• Continue to support existing commitments to
The SDLP will end the attempted
• Initiate the establishment of an NI regulator. City Deals and sectoral deals.
renewable energy through existing and new • Expand coverage of RTÉ and other Irish media repartition of Northern Ireland
technologies. outlets. In any new government this process will be overseen through chronic under
by an Executive sub-committee, consisting of the investment in
Minister of Finance, Minister of Education and Minister some areas.
for the Economy and with strict targets over the next
five years for increased investment in areas which have
been left behind.
18 19a New forMula for faIrNess
Bringing People together housing
The SDLP’s vision of a Shared Future in the North is For the most part our communities physically live apart.
not just that of improving community relations and It is not only those who live in urban interface areas
encouraging better behaviour but of actually bringing who pay the price of division but people across towns
our divided community together so that the old wounds and villages, in suburbs and rural areas. Our ambition
of division heal and all sides work together to build a is to end the ‘them and us’ mentality around areas and
stronger united community. Other parties may settle for housing so that the concept of interface starts to
a ‘good relations’ view of the future - confined to become less relevant.
minimising antagonisms - we want to bring people
together in a single community which accommodates The SDLP will legislate to impose a statutory duty on
its differences and celebrates its diversity. social housing providers to promote and develop
shared housing. This does not mean that housing will
To achieve the ambitious goal of bringing people cease to be allocated on the basis of need – that will
together we have to address all of the things that keep continue – but it will mean an end to ‘Orange’
them apart, including those areas of life where they waiting lists and ‘Green’ waiting lists and the
have become segregated. institutionalisation of division in housing
management.
The SDLP is committed to defending and campaigning
for equality and human rights across all sectors, A new system will demand that social housing
regardless of: sexual orientation, religious belief, landlords use their best endeavours, including their Across the North we will also strive to ensure that more Ireland so that it becomes the educational format of
political opinion, racial group, age, class, marital status, transfer systems, to deliver shared housing. and more areas become genuinely shared spaces, choice for an increasing number of parents and
sex, disability and between persons with dependents particularly town centres. We will develop a strategy for children. Our plans to develop integrated education will
and persons without. A genuinely shared future will The SDLP shared housing plan will also ensure that the reducing the amount of single identity manifestations still operate in a context where parental choice remains
champion the rights of everyone in our society. development of shared communities is a material such as flags, emblems, murals, memorials etc so that paramount. In addition we are not confined to the
factor in the location of all new public services, less territory is marked out as exclusive to one side or current model of integration – there is scope to
The SDLP will ensure the Commission on Flags, including local delivery points, from health centres to another. develop integrated education which builds upon the
Identity and the Past is truly representative of our schools, right down to bus stops. faith element of schools. For example there is no
society and is empowered to finally tackle issues of This is a long term project and there is already some reason why a Catholic school cannot become an
flags and contentious symbols. We will continue to The SDLP will also establish a shared housing task good work underway, but it needs a higher prioritisation integrated school.
strive for a comprehensive and ethical approach to the force to consider means of achieving greater diversity from Government.
past, demand stronger parades legislation, seek in the location and mix of housing in the private owner- The SDLP’s view is that the current DUP/Sinn Fein
equality on official flags and call for greater recognition occupied sector.
a new approach to Integrated education – ‘Shared’ education campuses initiative does not go far
of all of our identities and traditions. enough. Their model, which brings Catholic and
developing our shared spaces ending segregation of Children
Protestant schools closer together to share some
The diverse traditions and cultures in our society need
The SDLP has long believed that if we are serious facilities, actually maintains and institutionalises
to be celebrated, respected and protected through an Outside of the home, workplace and school,
about a shared future then we cannot continue to segregation. The SDLP model for integration means all
updated racial equality law. communities often follow different cultural and leisure
educate children apart. Our current divided education children wearing the same uniform being taught by the
pursuits. This is a simple matter of choice for most
We have made progress bringing people together in system effectively passes on the old divisions and same teachers in the same classroom. Within this
people and government cannot dictate how citizens
the workplace, particularly in the public sector, where prejudices of the past to children in their most framework it is still possible to have a diversity of
enjoy their free time. Nonetheless, it is desirable that
people from all backgrounds leave any political more and more activity should involve all sides of the formative years. This cannot continue. We have religious elements built into the students’ weekly
baggage they have at the door and work together to community and the SDLP will promote this kind of achieved a fair measure of integration in higher schedule.
serve the whole community. It did however take social development by a range of measures. education so now is the time to face the challenge in
leadership and strong legislation to achieve this. We will support all outreach measures by the main the primary and secondary sectors. The present demographic context in education – a very
We now need to take a similar approach to housing, sporting and cultural organisations as they try to substantial oversupply – presents a tremendous
shared public spaces and education and to a greater engage and enthuse communities not normally The SDLP will actively build and promote the opportunity to rationalise the school estate in favour of
cross-community approach to culture, arts and leisure. associated with their activities. development of integrated education in Northern integrated education. It is the SDLP view that every
20 21PolICINg aNd JustICe
area planning partnership should be aiming to regular officers that are required to provide an effective To prevent reoffending we will establish a 12 month unambiguously, paramilitary activity must be faced
maximise the integration of students within their and comprehensive service with community policing at post release supervision programme following down.
planning area. The SDLP will set targets for each its core. international best practice models which have been
planning area and performance in meeting those shown to dramatically reduce the number of those who There must be a whole hearted political approach to
targets will be a key consideration in the allocation of drugs and alcohol re-offend. As well as reducing the level of crime and ending paramilitarism and associated criminality.
resources and new investment. ensuring rehabilitation, this programme has the Nearly 20 years since the ceasefires, illegal structures
Drugs and alcohol are connected to a huge amount of potential to release significant savings for police and activities have no place in the life of the island.
crime in Northern Ireland. Alcohol related harm is
Policing and Justice - Putting victims estimated to cost Northern Ireland up to £900 million
services.
This must be accompanied by a comprehensive law
first in resources every year, resources that are desperately organised Crime and Corruption enforcement approach to seeking out all involved in
needed in both our health and justice systems. paramilitary criminality and all who hold historic assets,
The SDLP is calling for substantial reforms to the The SDLP have been consistent in our calls for a be it for personal gain or not.
criminal justice system to deliver faster, fairer justice The SDLP is calling for the introduction of a levy, greater degree of co-operation between the PSNI and
with increased accountability. We will do this by modelled on the minimum price per unit system, to An Garda Síochána to deal with crime associated with We will ensure that the Paramilitary Disbandment
introducing clear timeframes for cases, ensuring tackle binge drinking and alcohol abuse. the border. Fuel laundering, smuggling and human Strategy Panel is provided with any support and
proper communication between victims, the PSNI and It is clear that drugs are an ever growing problem in trafficking are all areas in which inter-agency co- information it may require from organisations including
the Public Prosecution Service and the increased use our communities. The number of drug seizures and operation is required to successfully achieve the PSNI, An Garda Síochána and all other
of remote evidence technology. We believe that it is arrests for drug related crime have increased year on convictions. The cost to the public purse, the damage stakeholders.
essential that the criminal justice system does not year over the last decade, with the numbers in 2016 to our shared natural environment and the devastating
re-traumatise the victims and are calling for a review of now double what they were in 2006. impact on individuals must no longer be overlooked or
all stages of the system to ensure the highest standard ignored due to bureaucracy. The SDLP have never been in
of justice prevails. The SDLP want to see a dedicated multi-agency Drugs any denial or doubt about the
Over the last number of years in different areas of
Strategy which will target drug dealers and ring fence existence and activities of
The SDLP will continue the fight for protections against public, private and political life there has been serious
seized assets to provide help to those recovering from loyalist and republican
cuts to legal aid and the closure of courthouses to allegations of corruption, cronyism and fraud. While
addiction. We will ensure that clear referral pathways
ensure that everyone has affordable and accessible are open for those who need help and that effective
many of the cases have been complex, what is clear is paramilitary groups.
justice. that Northern Ireland does not currently have an
partnerships are established between the community
effective means of checking, preventing or prosecuting
and voluntary sector and public agencies to provide
corruption and white collar crime.
Police presence integrated and comprehensive support services.
Anti-corruption measures are spread across a range of accountability and oversight
The single most effective way to fight crime and make rehabilitation reforms laws and agencies and investigations are often The SDLP believes that clearer accountability
our communities safer is to have a visible, regular and
hampered by a lack of a coordinated approach. mechanisms are required to maintain and bolster
dependable police presence on our streets. We are The SDLP are calling for fundamental and structural Corruption has a corrosive effect on the economy, the public confidence in the criminal justice system. We
calling for the increase in the number of police officers reforms to the prison service to shift the focus within quality of public services and confidence in institutions. are calling for a review of the oversight mechanisms
by 4%. This will bring the service up to the 7,000 prisons from security to rehabilitation whilst ensuring
between the Public Prosecution Service, the Attorney
the safety and dignity of both prison staff and The SDLP fought hard for local oversight and robust
General and the Executive whilst maintaining
prisoners. To secure improvements to the standards of accountability protections for the National Crime
independence of decision-making.
justice it is essential that we have a system focused on Agency. We are now calling for stronger collaboration
outcomes which does more than simply process cases. between all relevant agencies to deliver a specific anti-
It costs £58,000 to keep a person in prison for a year corruption strategy for Northern Ireland. domestic abuse
in Northern Ireland. It is clear that the imprisonment of
In 2015 there were over 77 domestic abuse incidents
those who cannot pay fines or debts is not a cost Paramilitary Panel a day, with 33 each day involving at least one serious
effective way of achieving redress. The SDLP will
crime being committed. The PSNI responded to a
introduce a progressive approach towards securing The SDLP have never been in any denial or doubt domestic incident every 19 minutes of every day, and
compensation by supporting community mediation about the existence and activities of loyalist and these account for approximately 13% of the total crime
methods and non-court approaches of dispute republican paramilitary groups. Decisively and in Northern Ireland.
resolution.
22 23PolICINg aNd JustICe OUR PLEDGE
The SDLP are calling for a cross departmental gender Since then there have been two OFMDFM scoping
strategy to tackle the unacceptable level of domestic exercises after which, in early 2016, it was deemed ProteCtINg PeoPle froM CrIMe
abuse and gender violence in Northern Ireland. necessary to do a third scoping exercise due to a “lack
of data and lack of information”.
victims of abuse
This is profoundly unsatisfactory. Victims and survivors
The SDLP repeats its commitment: see long delays, real doubts and anxiety deepens.
• to compensation for victims.
• proper inquiry into victims of abuse outside the The work of scoping should have been long completed
institutions and Mother and Child Homes (under and decisions made long ago. The SDLP proposed at
18s). OFMDFM Committee in February 2016, receiving all
• long term funding for victims and survivor groups. party support, that the third scoping exercise should be
• and an early implementation of the forthcoming concluded in six months with Executive decisions
recommendations of the Hart Inquiry. within two months of that date. This should be the
non-negotiable position of the next Executive.
Compensation
The SDLP believes that compensation, including funding
interim payments if so requested, for victims and
survivors should be a commitment in the next The SDLP has urged OFMDFM to secure long term
Programme for Government. Options for compensation funding for groups within Hart and new funding for
should be scoped out now, without prejudice to final groups outside Hart. The needs of victims of abuse will
recommendations of the Hart Inquiry and consistent not be addressed swiftly and funded support, advocacy
with the Inquiry confirming that scoping is not and solidarity is needed long term.
prejudicial to its work. The SDLP believes that there is a pressing need to It is estimated that 18,000 of us a year are victims of
hart Inquiry and delivery review the effectiveness and scope of the law so that alcohol-related violent crime, that one in five crimes in
The scoping should be undertaken by OFMDFM but older people are better protected from criminal activity. Northern Ireland have alcohol as a contributing factor
involve the churches, institutions and others. Scoping The Inquiry is due to report in January 2017. The SDLP and that 61% of street violence involved alcohol. It is
now can mean decisions earlier after the Hart Inquiry believes that there should be a deadline for a The SDLP believes that there can be no room for clear that more must be done not only to challenge
Report, not least given the stated views of the Inquiry Government Response and Implementation Plan. This leniency when dealing with those who carry out attacks problem premises and suppliers but also those
that, on the basis of evidence to date, compensation should be two months. against older people and pledge to support the involved in anti-social drinking and those committing
will be one of its recommendations. introduction of mandatory prison terms for all those acts of violence while under the influence of alcohol.
The next mandate should recover the lost ground on convicted of such attacks.
a full and robust inquiry delivering for victims of abuse. Compensation, a new More than a dozen pensioners are
Inquiry where needed, continuing support and the More than a dozen pensioners are the victims of crime the victims of crime every day in
Three years ago it was recognised that the Hart Inquiry implementation of Hart are some of the thresholds. Northern Ireland and the conviction
every day in Northern Ireland and the conviction rates
would not address clerical abuse outside institutions They must be the hard outcomes. rates for these crimes can be as
for these crimes can be as low as 4%. The fear caused
or Mother and Child Homes where the mother was low as 4%.
by such crimes can imprison people in their own
under 18.
homes and medical evidence shows that victims of
such attacks are likely to suffer from premature
In 2015 there were over 77 deaths. Those who cause fear, inflict violence and commit
domestic abuse incidents a day, crimes fuelled by alcohol must feel the full force of the
with 33 each day involving at The SDLP believes that we cannot continue to allow a law. Any person convicted of an offence where alcohol
least one serious crime being situation where these crimes, and the fear of these is an aggravating factor must serve at least a
crimes, destroy the safety, health and well being of our community service order if not a prison sentence.
committed. older population. Suspended sentences for alcohol-related crimes are no
longer acceptable.
24 25You can also read
