“What is a Politician For if not to Help the People?” - UUP ask Ford
Ulster Unionist Social Development spokesman and UUP East Belfast Representative Michael Copeland today attacked Alliance Leader David Ford who said the £5 Million emergency fund earmarked for those who suffered damage to their homes and livelihoods ‘set a dangerous precedent’. The UUP man also called on MLA Naomi Long to clarify whether or not she shares the view of her party Leader.
In a statement Mr Copeland said,
“The flooding in East Belfast last week was some of the worst seen for decades. Regardless of the failings of our outdated drainage and sewerage systems, the human cost is incalculable.
I was on the ground during the worst of it. Houses were damaged; electrical goods and home furnishings ruined. Homes that take many years to get just right and have had hard work and pride poured into them have been ruined.
Politicians exist to serve the people. They exist to help the people.
If our devolved institutions cannot deliver a solution after the worst flooding in years and alleviate the financial burden on those who perhaps cannot afford adequate cover for their belongings because they do not have the means to do so, then frankly I have no idea what a politician is for.
Mr Ford’s assertion that this much needed help sets a dangerous precedent is ludicrous and scrooge-like. I call on Naomi Long to spell out whether she shares the views of her Party Leader. If she does perhaps she’d like to explain those views to the many residents in East Belfast who are rebuilding their lives and homes. The people of East Belfast are a resilient bunch and will bounce back. But they need help to do so. It appears that this is beyond the comprehension of Mr Ford and his Party.”