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22/03/2012
Chancellor's Budget Receives Mixed Reviews In NI
Northern Ireland has had mixed reactions to Chancellor, George Osborne's, budget which was published yesterday.
Finance Minister Sammy Wilson has expressed concern while the SDLP MP Mark Durkan said it was a "slap in the face".
Sinn Fein have also said there was "little relief for those on benefits and low pay".
Yesterday the Chancellor revealed that he will be cutting the top rate from 50 pence in the pound to 45 pence by April next year.
He also announced a big hike in the level at which individuals start paying personal tax to £9,205.
In terms of other living costs child benefit will also now be removed gradually for those earning more than £50,000. While the planned 3p fuel cost rise in August is not going to be scrapped as it was hoped and duty on tobacco is set to rise by 5% above inflation.
NI Secretary of State Owen Paterson welcomed the Budget.
He said the measures provided "significant help" to hard working families in Northern Ireland.
But Sammy Wilson however expressed concern over the announcement on greater regionalisation of public sector pay.
The minister pointed out that public sector pay in Northern Ireland is already 3.5 % below the UK average.
Mr Wilson said: "The size of the public sector in Northern Ireland is similar to many other UK regions. The problem we face is that our private sector is too small.
"I am also outraged that the Chancellor has not done more to provide assistance to those on low incomes and bring families out of poverty including a reduction in fuel duty."
(LB)
Finance Minister Sammy Wilson has expressed concern while the SDLP MP Mark Durkan said it was a "slap in the face".
Sinn Fein have also said there was "little relief for those on benefits and low pay".
Yesterday the Chancellor revealed that he will be cutting the top rate from 50 pence in the pound to 45 pence by April next year.
He also announced a big hike in the level at which individuals start paying personal tax to £9,205.
In terms of other living costs child benefit will also now be removed gradually for those earning more than £50,000. While the planned 3p fuel cost rise in August is not going to be scrapped as it was hoped and duty on tobacco is set to rise by 5% above inflation.
NI Secretary of State Owen Paterson welcomed the Budget.
He said the measures provided "significant help" to hard working families in Northern Ireland.
But Sammy Wilson however expressed concern over the announcement on greater regionalisation of public sector pay.
The minister pointed out that public sector pay in Northern Ireland is already 3.5 % below the UK average.
Mr Wilson said: "The size of the public sector in Northern Ireland is similar to many other UK regions. The problem we face is that our private sector is too small.
"I am also outraged that the Chancellor has not done more to provide assistance to those on low incomes and bring families out of poverty including a reduction in fuel duty."
(LB)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
