Foyle MLA Sinead McLaughlin Pushes Bill for Regional Balance

URGENT UPDATE: Foyle MLA Sinead McLaughlin has just announced a pivotal move in the Assembly at Stormont to draft a private member’s bill aimed at achieving better regional balance across Northern Ireland. This critical legislation is set to address disparities affecting areas outside Belfast, with a particular focus on Derry and the North West.

During her address to the Assembly earlier today, McLaughlin highlighted a troubling statistic: of the 19 new businesses that were supported by Invest NI over the past year, none were located in Derry. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for action to ensure equitable development across the region.

McLaughlin stated, “This is a pressing issue that affects not just Derry, but many areas across Northern Ireland. We need to ensure that all regions have the opportunity to thrive.” Her call for regional balance resonates deeply with communities feeling sidelined in favor of the capital.

The proposed bill aims to create frameworks that encourage investment and development in underserved areas, fostering economic growth where it is most needed. This initiative could reshape the economic landscape of Northern Ireland, providing much-needed opportunities for local businesses and communities.

The Assembly’s response to McLaughlin’s initiative will be crucial in determining the future of regional balance in Northern Ireland. If passed, the bill could lead to significant changes in how resources and investments are allocated, potentially transforming the economic fortunes of areas like Derry.

As this story develops, observers will be keen to see how other Assembly members respond and what steps will follow in the legislative process. The bill’s introduction is a significant step toward addressing long-standing regional disparities and could have lasting implications for the people of Northern Ireland.

Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent legislative effort.