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Northern Ireland\u2019s Finance Minister has called for an \u201curgent meeting\u201d with the Chancellor over the region\u2019s finances.<\/p>\n
Stormont ministers have been unable to agree a budget for the current financial year, with departments operating on contingency budgets since April.<\/p>\n
Ministers across the four-party Executive have consistently made the point that they need more money from the Treasury to address a funding crisis facing public services in the region.<\/p>\n
In July during his first visit to Belfast as Northern Ireland Secretary, Sir Chris Bryant warned he had \u201ca checklist of things I want to get sorted\u201d rather than a chequebook.<\/p>\n
On Monday, John O\u2019Dowd insisted a budget can only be agreed when agreement is reached with the UK government for \u201cfair and sustainable funding\u201d for Stormont.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe absence of an agreed Budget for 2026-27 is creating significant uncertainty for departments and placing increasing pressure on the delivery of our public services,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is also forcing short-term decision making at a time when longer-term, strategic choices are required.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is imperative that an agreed Budget is put in place as soon as possible. This can only happen, though, after agreement has been reached with the Westminster Government around a fair and sustainable funding outcome.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr O\u2019Dowd pressed the \u201cseriousness of the situation\u201d, calling for \u201curgent progress\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Executive has engaged extensively with Westminster to ensure there is a clear understanding of the scale of the financial challenges we face and the impact they are having on public services,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cGiven the seriousness of the situation, urgent progress is now required.<\/p>\n
\u201cI am calling on the Chancellor to engage directly with the Executive and take the necessary steps to deliver a funding settlement that enables us to set a sustainable Budget, drive transformation and deliver better outcomes for our people.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Treasury has been contacted for a response.<\/p>\n