Ahead of the prime minister’s first official visit to Northern Ireland, First Minister Michelle O’Neill has called for a fair budget settlement that genuinely supports public services. She stated, “The reality is that we are severely underfunded, and have been for years.” O’Neill added, “If Andy Burnham wants to make a difference, he can do so by actually changing the funding arrangement, because what we have currently does not cut it.”
Treasury officials and the Northern Ireland Executive have been engaged in budget talks over the summer, but a Stormont budget remains unagreed. Northern Ireland Secretary Sir Chris Bryant described the situation as “shocking” on Monday. While suggesting the executive could explore further revenue-raising options, Bryant expressed his willingness to assist where budgetary pressures are significant.
Prior to political meetings, the prime minister will engage with young people to hear about the issues shaping their lives and their aspirations for the future. This includes discussions with teenagers and mentors involved in mentoring schemes within Belfast’s creative music scene, which seeks to elevate local artists and position the city as a UNESCO City of Music.
Mr. Burnham said, “People in Northern Ireland want more breathing space from the cost of living, good, well-paid jobs, and opportunities for their children. Political point-scoring in the past has made this harder, not easier. I want to work with the Northern Ireland Executive and political parties to make a real difference in communities.”
Earlier in the day, Mr. Burnham travelled to South Wales, marking his first official visit to the country since becoming prime minister. Before the trip, he announced plans to host a summit of the leaders of Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland in the autumn to bolster the UK economy.