Alliance Erne West candidate Gerard McCusker has said May’s election is a chance for the electorate to quiz parties on their record on transparency in local government.

He said: “Alliance councillors want to deliver better value for money for all ratepayers across Northern Ireland.

“Part of that is ensuring decision-making is as open and transparent as possible, particularly at local government level, where we have seen issues around carve-ups and questions raised as to the allocation of funds.

“Alliance has been vocal about the need to open up those processes so people can find out who is making decisions and where money is going.

“Faith in politics has never been lower. If we are to regain the public’s trust, they need to have the ability to know what decisions are being made and who is making them.

“While other parties talk about transparency, Alliance’s actions show we are actually committed to seeing it improved.

“I challenge others to follow our lead in removing secrecy in local politics,” added Mr. McCusker.