Statement by TUV vice-chairman Keith Harbinson:

“The fact that the number of people employed as official staff at Parliament Buildings has risen by almost 50% over the past five years will surprise many people. Given the scarcity of legislation produced and the widespread dissatisfaction with the delivery of devolution to date – highlighted in a recent opinion poll which revealed that 75% of people believe that our system of government needs to improve – I don’t believe that many people think they are getting value for money.

“While the political classes talk grandly about the need to balance the books it is evident that Stormont has been less than frugal in its use of public money. With subsidised meals in the Assembly canteen and free bottled water it is little wonder we now face such drastic public sector cuts!”