Wednesday 22 April 2020
Green Party NI Leader Clare Bailey MLA has described as “reckless and selfish” the decision of MPs Jim Shannon and Ian Paisley Jr to travel to Westminster to attend a House of Commons debate yesterday.
Clare Bailey MLA: “I have to say that I was shocked to see coverage of Jim Shannon and DUP colleague Ian Paisley Jr speaking in the House of Commons.
“The Speaker of the House has urged MPs to stay at home and a virtual parliamentary system enables them to continue their role in scrutinising government from the safety of their constituencies.
“Yet, our MPs for Strangford and North Antrim took it upon themselves to travel to London - the UK epicentre of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Travelling to Westminster under these circumstances can only be described as a risk to public health and a waste of public funds.
“Frontline workers don’t have options around working from home. Those fortunate enough to be in a position to stay at home and work from home should do just that.
“Reckless and selfish trips to Westminster for MPs able to work from their constituencies are inexcusable.”
ENDS
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