McCausland ducks spirit of Topical Questions - Nesbitt

Ulster Unionist Leader Mike Nesbitt MLA, has expressed his frustration at the cavalier manner in which the Social Development Minister treated today’s opening session of Topical Questions in the Assembly.

Asked specific questions regarding the role of his Special Advisor, Mr McCausland refused to answer, referring the matters to the forthcoming investigation by the Social Development Committee.

Mr Nesbitt said:

“There can be no higher authority in the devolved administration that the Assembly. It is simply wrong to tell that body, sitting in Plenary, that the matter is under the consideration of a Committee. That would be the tail wagging the dog.

“Topical questions were introduced as a mechanism to afford members greater opportunity to hold Executive Ministers to account. The Speaker made that very point today. But if a Minister can refuse to answer simple enquiries, then Topical Questions will quickly fall into disrepute.

“Does the Minister not realise that he could greatly assist the Committee in reaching speedy conclusions if he gave straight answers on the floor of the Assembly?”

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