December 2009 Dear Constituent, We continue to live in difficult times with the economic recession and increase in the cost of living. I recognise that many are struggling to make ends meet and for some this winter will once again be particularly harsh with the cost of heating homes and providing basics like food putting significant pressure on family budgets, particularly amongst many of our older citizens. Some people have lost their jobs in recent times and for others the prospect of unemployment looms large. It is important that politicians respond to these challenges and continue to seek ways in which practical help can be given to those in need. At Westminster I have supported moves by the Government to ease the financial burden on householders with a range of measures including a reduction in VAT and a significant cut in interest rates. I have also worked closely with my colleagues in the Assembly to introduce other financial measures that are designed to help households here. The Executive has frozen the regional domestic rate for three years, which will save the average family in Northern Ireland £1,000 over this period. In addition water charges have been deferred and this means that householders did not receive a water bill in 2009, an average saving per household of £160. A £15m fuel poverty package has also been delivered that will help the most vulnerable in our society. This money allowed £150 to be credited to the electricity accounts of over 100,000 households on income support or pension credit and comes on top of the annual winter fuel allowance. In addition I have lobbied the Energy Regulator to bring about a reduction in both electricity and gas prices and will continue to press for further cuts as oil prices drop on the international markets. Free travel on public transport has been extended to all those aged 60 and over and the Executive has approved the ending of prescription charges, with a reduction in 2009 and everyone in the province entitled to free prescriptions by April 2010. As your local MP, I also recognise the importance of sustaining employment. The Executive has delivered some £1.6 Billion in infrastructure investment in this year alone – a record for Northern Ireland. This includes major projects to construct new schools and colleges that will not only benefit the construction industry, but also local communities. A targeted small business rate relief scheme has been introduced to try and ease the burden on businesses during the recession. Importantly, this is being funded centrally and not by charging other ratepayers more. In the meantime, non-domestic rates have been frozen in cash terms for 2009-10, further enhancing the competitiveness of local firms, protecting jobs and incomes and representing a real saving for all hard pressed businesses operating during difficult times. Locally, I continue to work on your behalf to secure major investment in the Lagan Valley area and to ensure that the concerns of local communities are addressed. With the help of an excellent support team in my constituency office and at Westminster, I have endeavoured to provide you with the highest standard of political representation. Finally, may I take this opportunity to thank the people of the Lagan Valley constituency for granting me the privilege of serving you in Parliament. I will continue to do my best for everyone and if I can help you or your family in any way, please do not hesitate to be in touch. Yours sincerely,