Aontú Armagh representative Daniel Connolly has called for a reduction in the number of MLAs at Stormont from 90 to 65, questioning whether the current system of political representation delivers value for money for taxpayers.
Speaking about the issue, Connolly said:
“Recently, a lady in Keady asked me who her elected representatives were. Of the six councillors, five MLAs and one MP who currently represent her, she named just two – one MLA and one councillor. This is something I encounter regularly when speaking to people across Armagh.
“Across the North, there are 90 MLAs and 18 MPs. With the recent huge increases in MLA pay, taxpayers are entitled to ask whether they are getting value for money.
“There is also a striking comparison with political representation in a united Ireland. Under the Irish constitutional limit of one TD for every 30,000 people, the North’s population would equate to approximately 65 TDs.
“I believe we should reduce the number of MLAs from 90 to 65. That would mean 25 fewer politicians at Stormont, a reduction of 28%. We should establish the same population-to-representative ratio used in the South as the benchmark for representation in the North.
“If approximately 65 TDs could represent the North’s population in a united Ireland, we should be asking why Stormont needs 90 MLAs today.
“We also need to question whether we need so many layers of political representation. A more streamlined system could reduce costs, improve accountability and ensure that public money is directed towards frontline services rather than maintaining unnecessary numbers of politicians.
“Ultimately, the question is simple: are people getting the representation they deserve, and is the current system delivering value for money?
“Do MLAs deserve their massive 27% pay rise? Have they reduced waiting lists? Fixed the excessive number of potholes on our roads? Tackled the cost of living? Have they even agreed a budget – one of the most basic responsibilities of any government?
“People are entitled to expect results from those elected to represent them. If Stormont cannot deliver on these basic responsibilities, serious questions must be asked about the size, cost and effectiveness of the institutions.”
ENDS