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  • Change of approach needed – O’Dowd

    Topics:
    • Finance

    Date published: 22 July 2026

    Finance Minister John O’Dowd has said a change of approach is needed from the Westminster Government to funding of public services.

    Finance Minister John O'Dowd sitting at his desk
    Finance Minister John O'Dowd

    Speaking following a meeting with the Chancellor John Healey, Minister O’Dowd commented: “I welcome the opportunity to meet with the Chancellor today.

    “The Prime Minister has promised change and that is exactly what people here need to see. Workers, families, and businesses here pay their taxes and deserve good public services.

    “I made clear to the Chancellor today that a different approach is required. Now is the time to put our finances on a sustainable footing. We are not being funded on a comparable basis with Scotland and Wales, and that must be addressed.

    “My priority remains securing a sustainable, multi-year Budget that gives departments the certainty they need and supports long-term planning, investment and transformation of public services. However, that can only be achieved with sufficient and stable funding from the British Government to underpin those ambitions.”

    Notes to editors:

    Notes to editors:

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