Claire Sugden on Challenging the Stormont System as an Independent MLA
The Slugger Cato Project was conceived as a collaborative exploration, where the engaged audience of Slugger O’Toole would play as active participants in discussing political reform and accountability in Northern Ireland. In a recent interview, Claire Sugden, an independent MLA for East Londonderry, shared her experiences and reflections on working within the structures of Stormont as a non-party representative.
Independence and Political Identity
Sugden emphasized that being an independent MLA allows her to act on behalf of constituents without being restricted by party lines. However, this autonomy often comes with practical challenges such as limited access to resources, staff, and the institutional support networks that are typically available to party members.
“Independents have to work twice as hard to be noticed, but it also means I can speak honestly about what I believe in.”
Her political independence, she argued, helps her connect more directly with local communities. Yet, she acknowledged that it can make collaboration within the Stormont Assembly more complicated.
Reform and Accountability
Sugden called for greater transparency and accountability in Northern Ireland’s devolved government, advocating for more inclusive debate and public engagement. She noted that while progress has been made, the current system often discourages open dissent and constructive cross-party dialogue.
“We must question whether the structures we have truly allow for good governance, or if they just reinforce the party system.”
The Role of the Cato Project
The Cato Project aims to foster open inquiry into civic participation and institutional reform. Through interviews, discussions, and essays, it encourages citizens and public figures to think critically about how Stormont operates and how its democratic practices might evolve. Sugden’s perspective as an independent voice highlights both the potential and the limitations of working outside traditional party frameworks.
Author’s summary: Claire Sugden reflects on the advantages and constraints of political independence in Stormont, urging structural reforms to create a more transparent and collaborative democracy in Northern Ireland.
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