The DUP has been committed to delivering a voluntary coalition
model of government through a step-by-step approach rather
than seeking to tear down our institutions and precipitate
constitutional uncertainty again.
It was essential that devolution was established in 2007 and the
peculiar mandatory coalition form of government was used as a
temporary measure to maximise cross-community support as
Northern Ireland emerged from decades of terrorism and division.
Now as politics normalises we can build on what has been
achieved and refine our governance arrangements in light of experience.
We have acquired control of Northern Ireland’s affairs. Now we must hone our practices to provide the best possible government for the people of the province. It is important that improvements command wide support and do not threaten devolution.
Until improvements are achieved, there are interim measures which we believe can enhance the quality of decision making even within the existing apparatus. Our proposals to improve the Government of Northern Ireland are outlined below. The complete Building on Success document can be accessed here.
We are keen to hear opinions from as wide a range of people as possible. A number of questions are included below. Please let us know your views by email at consultation@dup.org.uk or by post to DUP Policy Unit, 91 Dundela Avenue, Belfast. BT4 3BU. Please indicate your name and any organisation you represent. Thank you.
CONSULTATION QUESTIONS
Do you agree that the Stormont institutions can be improved to provide better government?
Do you agree that the best way to do this is from the inside rather than permitting devolution to fall and returning to Direct Rule indefinitely?
Do you believe decision making at Stormont could be more effective and efficient?
The ability to block decisions was important initially to provide confidence to both main traditions. Do you believe such powers are too restrictive to permit effective government in the years ahead?
Do you believe that the number of Stormont Government Departments should be reduced?
Do you believe the number of Assembly Members should be reduced?
Do you believe that the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister should be reformed?
Do you consider it appropriate that individual political parties should be allowed to block the Executive from operating?
Would you prefer to see a voluntary coalition model of Government appointed?
Do you agree that the present requirement for community designation of Assembly Members should be scrapped?
Do you believe weighted majority voting to ensure widespread support across the community would be a better system for the Assembly?
Similarly, do you believe weighted majority voting to ensure widespread support across the community would be a better system for the Executive?
Do you agree that the d’Hondt method for determining Executive Ministers should be replaced?
Would you like to see the facility for a number of parties capable of commanding broad support across the community to be able to agree the composition of the Executive amongst themselves after an election?
What is your assessment of the value of the North South bodies?
Would you support the number of non-elected Commissions being rationalised, through amalgamating the Equality Commission and Human Rights Commission for example?
Are there any further comments you would like to make?
Please respond to consultation@dup.org.uk or by post to DUP Policy Unit, 91 Dundela Avenue, Belfast. BT4 3BU indicating your name and any organisation you represent. Thank you.
