CATHOLIC bishops have urged members of the public to make their "voices heard" when the north goes to the polls next week.
In a joint statement church leaders in the north, including Archbishop Eamon Martin, spoke of the importance of voting.
In a pastoral reflection ahead of next Thursday's vote the church leaders focused on several themes including the rights of the unborn, poverty, dealing with refugees and respect for religious freedom.
Other senior clerics who put their names to the statement include Bishop of Down and Connor Noel Treanor, Bishop of Derry Donal McKeown, Bishop of Clogher Larry Duffy and Auxiliary Bishop of Armagh Bishop Michael Router.
"Make your vote count," the statement said.
"Speak up clearly and unequivocally for the rights and urgent needs of the most vulnerable in our society.
"This includes the rights and dignity of unborn children which are being increasingly relegated - culturally, politically and legally - to the realm of the worthless and sub-human."
They asked voters to think about the choice before them.
On the issue of poverty the church men also warned "people’s lives and well-being are at risk" and this "should be a key priority and an urgent concern for all our politicians".
