BYRNE says ‘2013 COULD BE BLEAK YEAR FOR MANY’ if welfare cuts continue to be implemented as planned!

Benefit cuts will drive vulnerable people deeper into poverty!!

Welfare Reform meeting held by the SDLP in Strabane and Omagh!

West Tyrone MLA, Joe Byrne has warned that 2013 could be the most difficult year for people on welfare benefits. Welfare Reform as outlined by the Tory Government could spell disaster for many people in Strabane who depend on weekly welfare payments to meet their daily needs. In short welfare reform will only mean one thing, welfare cuts! If implemented as currently proposed the single welfare payment can only mean reduced welfare benefits for the most vulnerable in our society, thus resulting in increased levels of poverty and social deprivation for unemployed families and people on other benefits.

The SDLP are so gravely concerned about this issue that they have actively lobbed at Westminster and sought  special consideration for the poverty stricken people of the North. 

The SDLP believe strongly that the welfare cuts which will be implemented here as outlined under welfare reform proposals will adversely affect the North and increase child poverty and poverty generally amongst those who have little option but to depend on welfare benefits. Given the current rising levels of unemployment 2013 could be a very bleak year indeed for many.

The SDLP BELIEVE IN PROTECTION for the weak and most vulnerable in our society. That’s the reason we have raised this issue of welfare reform concern within the highest levels Government.