MLAs to debate welfare reform bill

Stormont's controversial welfare reform legislation is due to be debated by MLAs on Tuesday.

The proposed bill has reached what is known as the consideration stage in Stormont's legislative process.

For months, the issue of welfare reform threatened to bring down the assembly.

But in December's inter-party talks, politicians agreed to set aside tens of millions of pounds for a fund designed to provide financial support for those adversely impacted by welfare changes.

Difficult

Generally, Northern Ireland Assembly bills reach their consideration stage a few months after MLAs first debate their principles.

The fact that two years and four months have passed since this bill was last on the floor of the chamber is proof of just how difficult the arguments over welfare reform have been.

With nearly 80 amendments to consider, MLAs are likely to go through the fine details until late on Tuesday night and debate could continue on Wednesday.

However, the essential deal was struck before Christmas, with the parties accepting the introduction of universal credit and personal independence payments, to replace benefits such as jobseeker's allowance, tax credits and disability living allowance.

Stormont is providing support for those adversely impacted financially by the changes to the welfare system by setting aside nearly £30m to assist claimants who lose out in 2015/16.

Sinn Féin has claimed the fund will amount to more than £500m over the next six years.

MLAs to debate welfare reform bill

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