Sinn Fein MLA Carál Ni Chuilín has today stated that the Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey, cannot keep avoiding scrutiny. This follows number of important motions not being accepted for debate in the Assembly due to the Minister not making himself available to attend.
“I have to question the apparent unwillingness of Michael McGimspey to make himself available to respond to questions in the Assembly about his performance as Minister for Health. As Minister he has a responsibility to the Assembly and the people that we represent to be available for scrutiny in an open, accountable, and transparent manner on the floor of the Assembly," said Ní Chuilín.
“However on four occasions in recent weeks health motions and adjournment debates have failed to be selected at the Business Committee because it was claimed that the Minister will not be available to be present in the Assembly chamber in order for the issues to be debated.
“These motions are dealing with key issues that fall under his remit such as the protection of children and vulnerable adults and the relocation of health services support staff from Armagh.
“It is unacceptable for the Minister to keep delaying and avoiding scrutiny of his performance in the chamber. Only last week a Member of the Minister's own Party the UUP was complaining about the cost of written questions to the Minister were excessive and politically motivated but if the Minister does not make himself available to answer questions in the Chamber then members have no other recourse but to seek answers in writing. Therefore I would suggest that the Member's time would be better served ensuring that his party's Minister make himself available o the Assembly.
"The question that needs answered is, what exactly is Michael McGimpsey attempting to avoid answering questions on?"
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