Direct rule is 'harming society'

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Real harm is being done to society and ordinary people because of Northern Ireland's "temporary government", a leading community body has said.

Nicva - the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action - said "vulnerable people are being left behind" by the absence of devolution.

Policy influencing had been rendered "extremely difficult" by direct rule.

Nicva will launch its manifesto for 2007 later, expressing an overwhelming need for "stable government".

Director Seamus McAleavey said: "If the current round of negotiations fail, the consequences may well be profound.

"Nicva is calling on those with responsibility to heed the call of the 4,500 organisations, and the 30,000 employees in the voluntary sector, and provide the people of Northern Ireland with the stability we urgently need to halt the paralysis of governance which is having a devastating effect on our society."

Wednesday's launch will feature presentations from representatives of NI Environment Link, Help the Aged, Opportunity Youth, Nippa and Housing Rights.

Duane Farrell from Help the Aged said the elderly were being directly affected by the absence of devolved government.

"Older people are telling Help the Aged that it is time for Northern Ireland's politicians to get back to the business of improving the quality of life for our increasingly ageing population and addressing the issues outlined in this manifesto," he said.