ALLIANCE leader Naomi Long has described the Stormont talks process as "essentially dormant".
The MEP last night called on Secretary of State Julian Smith to reveal how he plans, in conjunction with the Irish government, "to energise what is a failing process".
She said there had been a promise of an ‘intensive period’ of negotiations earlier this year.
“This is simply not good enough... Ongoing delays are continuing to undermine our public services and our economy," she said.
“Northern Ireland is falling further and further behind what is happening in other jurisdictions and we risk long-term damage. People’s quality of life and future opportunities are at stake."
Ms Long added that with a no-deal Brexit looming, Northern Ireland was heading to direct rule and this would not only be ineffective but "divisive and counter-productive".
She said there was a need for the biggest two parties to "step up" so all parties can agree a way forward.
