‘I’m at a loss to justify 1,400 job losses’
Finance Minister Simon Hamilton says he’s at a loss to justify the possible loss of 1,400 social security related posts in Londonderry and Belfast that, he says, may occur if the welfare impasse isn’t sorted out.
“Indeed the damage related to non-delivery of welfare reform will increase dramatically in the coming months,” he told MLAs at Stormont on Monday (September 8).
“I am at a loss to justify to the public the possible loss of 1,400 social security related posts in Belfast and Londonderry or the need to pay what will undoubtedly be exorbitant amounts for bespoke IT systems,” he added.
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Hide Ad“If there is no agreement on welfare reform the entire £87million penalty will need to be addressed in this financial year.
“There is absolutely no doubt about this and it will have serious implications for public services here,” he said.