Following today`s (Monday) debate on unemployment rates in the Assembly, Ulster Unionist Economy Spokesperson, Basil McCrea said:
"The DUP have been complacent regarding recent unemployment figures. I was also very surprised at Arlene Foster`s reaction to today`s debate. Things are improving in the rest of the UK whilst the unemployment figures here are getting worse. It is time that the Minister listened to what we and others have to say. That is the essence of co-operation."
"It is absolutely legitimate for my Party and me to raise concerns and issues regarding unemployment figures and the economy. It is neither productive nor helpful for the Minister to overreact at the slightest criticism."
"There are people out there who are really concerned and really hurting due to the current job situation. Whether they are a young person or older or someone who has just lost their job, these concerns are very real."