Leonard welcomes SF economic strategy

Mr Leonard said: “There have been many people talking about the difficult situation we are in but Sinn Fin is the first local party to propose specific actions.

“We recently launched proposals to deal with the current economic crisis in a document entitled ‘There is a better way’. Among the measures we propose is a tax on mobile phone companies, a levy on plastic bags and abolishing unnecessary quangos.

“The Sinn Fin proposals are about tackling waste, saving money, raising revenue, and investing this to create jobs, build infrastructure and protect public services and would bring in almost 1.9 billion in combined savings and new revenue.

“Sinn Fin has argued for an alliance between political parties, the Trade Unions, communities, and business to oppose any cuts.

“Sinn Fin is determined to protect frontline services and in particular the most vulnerable in our society who rely on public services for survival.

“Sinn Fein has written to the other parties asking to meet with them to discuss our proposals and listen to any that they may have. We will also be seeking an engagement with other stakeholders.”