The SDLP Opposition has suggested a handful of urgent priorities for the Executive to take up as New Year’s resolutions after a 2024 characterised by warm words but very limited delivery.

The urgent suggested resolutions are:
1. Complete the unfinished 2024 legislative programme
2. Finally publish a costed plan to rescue and rebuild the health service
3. Make progress on Stormont reform
4. Begin construction on Casement Park
5. Take action on the dozens of Executive party Assembly motions passed in 2024

SDLP Leader of the Opposition Matthew O’Toole MLA said:

“The Executive has been long on aspiration but pathetically short on delivery since it returned last February. But as any gym owner - or publican – will tell you, good intentions do not equal firm outcomes. The Executive needs to focus on actual delivery in 2025, not warm words and photo opportunities.

“Every single week we see Executive parties pass motions on a wide variety of issues but little by way of actual delivery on legislation or firm, costed plans. People are struggling now and the thought of another five years on a health or housing waiting list is unbearable. Even in areas where Stormont has the power to act in the here and now with simple, well-thought-out interventions, they choose to pass the buck to the UK Government or kick the can down the road. The excuses are running thin.

“The SDLP Opposition has offered a list of urgent priorities which the Executive should resolve to address early in the New Year, all of which are connected to promises or pledges Executive parties have already made. From a costed, time-bound plan to rescue our broken NHS to spades in the ground at Casement Park and some progress on reforming Stormont, these are things the public had a right to expect years ago. It’s time for Executive ministers to deliver more than platitudes in 2025.”