Menu
15/04/2016
Demand For Foodbanks In NI Hits Record High
The demand for food banks in Northern Ireland has remained at a record high throughout 2015-16, according to a study carried out by the Trussell Trust.
25,755 food parcels were given out in Northern Ireland last year and 11,155 of them went to children.
Unite general secretary Len McCluskey said: "Following hard on the heels of the billions stashed abroad by the rich and powerful we have today's heart-rending report from the Trussell Trust that hundreds of thousands of our fellow-citizens, including children, are struggling, one step away from starvation, in the fifth richest economy in the world.
"If anything demonstrated the fierce and burning inequality engulfing our country, it is the repugnant contrast between a rich elite who can enjoy tax-light arrangements for the cash they have squirrelled away in the British Virgin Islands with the tales of daily despair emanating from the trust’s 424 foodbanks.
"Most of those using food banks are in work, but are referred to the trust because of low wages and benefit delays brought about by this government’s chaotic welfare upheaval.
"What will it take for this government to accept that six years of mindless austerity not only fails economically but cause tremendous human misery?
"It is a national disgrace and those on the Conservative benches should not just hang their heads in shame but act now to block the further cuts their party plans to unleash on ordinary people and struggling families."
(CD)
25,755 food parcels were given out in Northern Ireland last year and 11,155 of them went to children.
Unite general secretary Len McCluskey said: "Following hard on the heels of the billions stashed abroad by the rich and powerful we have today's heart-rending report from the Trussell Trust that hundreds of thousands of our fellow-citizens, including children, are struggling, one step away from starvation, in the fifth richest economy in the world.
"If anything demonstrated the fierce and burning inequality engulfing our country, it is the repugnant contrast between a rich elite who can enjoy tax-light arrangements for the cash they have squirrelled away in the British Virgin Islands with the tales of daily despair emanating from the trust’s 424 foodbanks.
"Most of those using food banks are in work, but are referred to the trust because of low wages and benefit delays brought about by this government’s chaotic welfare upheaval.
"What will it take for this government to accept that six years of mindless austerity not only fails economically but cause tremendous human misery?
"It is a national disgrace and those on the Conservative benches should not just hang their heads in shame but act now to block the further cuts their party plans to unleash on ordinary people and struggling families."
(CD)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
14 June 2004
Council issues food poisoning warning
With the barbecue season upon us, Belfast City Council has issued a timely reminder about the dangers of food poisoning.
Council issues food poisoning warning
With the barbecue season upon us, Belfast City Council has issued a timely reminder about the dangers of food poisoning.
15 November 2024
New Food Strategy Aims To Make NI A World Leader In Sustainable Food
Northern Ireland's first Food Strategy Framework was launched today by DAERA Minister Andrew Muir. The strategy, titled "Food at the heart of our society - A prospectus for change," aims to position Northern Ireland as a world leader in sustainable, healthy, and nutritious food.
New Food Strategy Aims To Make NI A World Leader In Sustainable Food
Northern Ireland's first Food Strategy Framework was launched today by DAERA Minister Andrew Muir. The strategy, titled "Food at the heart of our society - A prospectus for change," aims to position Northern Ireland as a world leader in sustainable, healthy, and nutritious food.
15 August 2019
Local Culinary Delights To Be Showcased To The World
The finest selection of local food and drink produce is to be celebrated over the coming months as part of Tourism NI's 'Taste the Island' campaign. Over 150 experiences feature in the programme for September, October and November that aims to shine a spotlight on the superb culinary experiences available in Northern Ireland.
Local Culinary Delights To Be Showcased To The World
The finest selection of local food and drink produce is to be celebrated over the coming months as part of Tourism NI's 'Taste the Island' campaign. Over 150 experiences feature in the programme for September, October and November that aims to shine a spotlight on the superb culinary experiences available in Northern Ireland.
28 November 2012
NI Under-Performing On Foreign Languages
Northern Ireland is under-prepared to meet its need for linguists in the future, according to a new report. The British Council warned Northern Ireland needs to give learning foreign languages a higher priority. It said NI was "a long way from being self-sufficient in producing linguists in languages likely to be needed" by its businesses.
NI Under-Performing On Foreign Languages
Northern Ireland is under-prepared to meet its need for linguists in the future, according to a new report. The British Council warned Northern Ireland needs to give learning foreign languages a higher priority. It said NI was "a long way from being self-sufficient in producing linguists in languages likely to be needed" by its businesses.
12 November 2001
Province warned about pyramid scheme
People in Northern Ireland are being urged to be wary of a new “get rich quick” scheme that is spreading across the province.
Province warned about pyramid scheme
People in Northern Ireland are being urged to be wary of a new “get rich quick” scheme that is spreading across the province.
-
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.
