11 June 2026
SDLP Opposition Economy Spokesperson Sinéad McLaughlin MLA has urged the Executive to find a way forward on the Good Jobs Bill.
She said it was crucial that this opportunity to strengthen workers’ rights was not missed before the end of the Assembly mandate.
Foyle MLA Sinéad McLaughlin said:
“It took over two years for the long-promised Good Jobs Bill to make its way to the Assembly despite repeated promises. This is not about the latest Executive drama between Sinn Féin and the DUP, but about introducing much needed workers’ rights provisions to bring the North in line with the rest of these islands.
“If parties, business groups or others have concerns then the place to discuss them is in the Assembly and at committee where this legislation can be properly scrutinised. No one party has the right to hold back important measures like ending exploitative zero-hours contracts, implementing carer’s leave, banning fire and rehire practices and expanding flexible working and family leave.
“The SDLP's position is clear - the full Good Jobs Bill must be introduced and progressed before the end of this Assembly mandate. There can be no further excuses and no further delays. The Executive made a commitment to workers and that commitment must now be honoured.”