People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll has said proposals to cut discretionary financial support grants will drive impoverished households off a financial cliff edge.
The proposals were mooted as the Department for Communities warned of a £111.2 million funding gap following the recent budget.
“Cuts to discretionary support grants will be a hammer blow to the poorest in our society,” the West Belfast MLA said.
“These grants are a lifeline for those who need support to buy food, pay bills, or to keep a roof over their head while they await meagre benefits payments. Hunger, homelessness, and destitution will flow directly from any cuts to discretionary support.
“Working class people are already suffering from over a decade of Stormont-backed austerity. The latest Tory budget will drive impoverished households off a financial cliff edge.
“Social security, health, housing, and education are being put on the chopping block by this barbaric Tory government. They must be given no quarter in return.
“Strikes aimed at defending public services and securing better wages must continue. But community groups, schools, and all sections of our communities must mobilise to topple this despicable government once and for all.”
