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This analysis of the Northern Ireland Assembly highlights the positives and negatives of its consociational approach to governance. While it effectively brings larger community groups together and provides mechanisms for legislative scrutiny through MLAs, it raises concerns about underrepresentation of minorities and the challenges posed by involuntary committee collaborations. Additionally, though the Assembly offers stability and reliable public service, it incurs significant costs and faces operational inefficiencies. This report is vital for understanding the complex dynamics shaping Northern Ireland's political landscape.
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Consociationalism • Positive - • Brings communities together in the form of government • Negative - • Only brings together the largest groups in society, minorities are not guaranteed executive positions
Legislation Positives - • MLA’s can scrutinise proposed laws • MLA’s and committees can propose legislation • Proposed Bills are sent to the NIHRC
Committees Positives- • Saves time as all of the work is not done in the assembly • Work done behind closed downs • Made up of all backgrounds in the community Negatives- • MLA’s can be on several committees • Committee advice may be ignored by minister of department • Involuntary committees are forced to work together
Assembly Positives- • More reliable and stable than the Executive Negative- • Too many members • Quorum of only 10 members • Costs £2.7m per month • MLA’s still get paid when assembly is not working
Under Representation Negatives - • Women • Young People • Old People • Immigrants • Travelling Community • Homosexuals/Transsexuals
Cross Community Legislation Negative - • Causes a permanent divide between parties • Those stated as “Others” have limited responsibility • MLA’s can re-designate status Positives - • It stops majoritarianism from happening
Key Issues Avoided Negatives - • Key matters in the Assembly have been deserted • Too much time spent making a program
Time Schedule Positive - • The MLA’s can spend more time with their family • The MLA’s days are spread out well Negative - • MLA’s are pushed for time • Constituency work runs into the weekend • The assembly doesn’t stay open too late