The Official Site of Sammy Wilson MP
Bringing East Antrim’s Voice to the Centre of Decision-Making
I welcome the fact that help is coming to Northern Ireland, although it amounts to only around £35 per household. While any support is welcome, it is important that the Economy Minister in Northern Ireland acts swiftly to ensure that people receive the help they need now, not next winter when the pressure may have already taken its toll on many households.
🌍 Iran must learn that blackmail will not work.
Today in Westminster I warned that Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, using its proxies and geographical position to pressure the West.
Until it learns that this kind of tactic will not be accepted, the danger is that it will simply happen again.
The real question is this: do we lack the ability to stop it — or the political will?
⛽️ The response to soaring petrol, diesel and home heating oil prices is little more than tokenism.
Across Northern Ireland, people are facing price increases of 100% or more just to heat their homes. Farmers are also struggling as massive fuel costs continue to squeeze their livelihoods. 🌾
The announcement of £17 million may sound significant — but when it has to be spread across thousands of households and farmers, the reality is that very few will see meaningful help.
There is also no indication of action against fuel wholesalers who appear to have exploited instability in the Middle East to drive prices even higher. 📈
We are told this money will be “targeted at the most needy.”
But from my experience as Finance Minister, the bureaucracy involved in identifying who qualifies often eats up a large portion of the funding itself.
Given the inefficiency we too often see in the civil service, there is a real risk that many people will wait a long time before any help actually arrives.
🔥 Families and farmers need real help now — not token gestures.
Stormont must deliver real and prompt action to tackle rising fuel costs and support those who are struggling the most.
I welcome the news that a book festival is taking place at Magheramourne Estate.
This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate literature, creativity and the arts in such a beautiful setting.
Events like this help bring communities together, support local talent and inspire a love for reading among people of all ages.
I hope the people of East Antrim will get behind this festival and make it a great success.
Magheramorne Literary Festival – Magheramorne Estate
magheramorneestate.com
Magheramorne Literary Festival brings leading writers together for a weekend of conversation and storytelling in a unique estate setting.