Ulster Unionist Leader, Mike Nesbitt MLA, has expressed astonishment at the revelation that £8.6 million ring-fenced for childcare provision remains unspent by the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister (OFMdFM).
Mr Nesbitt, who is Chair of the OFMdFM Committee at Stormont, discovered that only £3.4 million had been spent during an evidence session yesterday. He said:
“Everyone knows that access to affordable childcare is a major obstacle preventing people from returning to work after starting a family. OFMdFM committed to spending £12 million over the three financial years ending on 30 March 2015.
"The latest update from OFMdFM officials does not make any reference to how much money has actually hit the ground, but after persistent questioning yesterday, officials finally gave in and admitted the spend was no more than £3.4 million.
"I cannot imagine what a shock and disappointment that is to the many parents who are ready and willing to become economically productive but cannot due to the lack of accessible and affordable childcare in their area.
“Coming on top of last week’s news that the First Minister and Deputy First Minister have failed to spend £79 million of the £80m Social Investment Fund money earmarked for people living in poverty, this is simply incredible.
“Like Father Ted, they have millions resting in their bank account, except this isn’t funny. Nor is it as good as it gets for our people, who deserve much, much better than a political Ted and Dougal at the heart of government.”