Elliott comments on talks on future of the Justice ministry

Speaking tonight following the conclusion of All Party Talks at Stormont Castle, the Leader of the Ulster Unionist Party, Tom Elliott MLA said;

"The Ulster Unionist Party welcomes today's discussions.  Indeed over the Autumn period I made repeated calls for talks to take place between the parties 

Since last May, the UUP has been highlighting the inherent flaw which existed when the Alliance Party were given an extra Ministry in the Executive. This was not consistent with the democratic process, particularly as the UUP had twice as many Assembly seats compared with the Alliance Party.

"Tonight's proposal, if accepted, will ensure that there is now greater parity around the Executive table based on the electoral strengths of the various parties. It also follows the recommendation arising out of the IREP report, which advocated abolishing the Department of Employment and Learning.

The UUP has always advocated fewer Departments at Stormont and we believe this agreement is the first step in achieving that goal.

"We will obviously wish to study the proposal put forward by the First and deputy First Ministers in further detail.  We will be consulting with colleagues and interested parties and will respond accordingly before Monday evening.  We will wish to consider in detail the powers and functions that are currently in DEL which may be divided between other Departments. It is important that the correct functions go to the proper Departments to ensure good government for all in Northern Ireland.

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