Jon Burrows: Stormont's performance is 'sub-optimal', says new MLA
Speaking to BBC Radio Ulster's Good Morning Ulster programme, Burrows described Stormont in its current form as "sub-optimal" and said he believes it needs to evolve."I think most people in Northern Ireland now realise that the kind of permanent power-sharing structure we had to get us over the line to a peace deal in 1998 probably does need to evolve to make it something more effective and accountable," Burrows said."A sort of collective government and a proper opposition, that would be ideal, but in the meantime I will provide scrutiny, I have showed that in the last number of months and years - I will provide forensic scrutiny."Burrows said he "genuinely believes in public service" and decided to take up the role as an MLA "after taking soundings" and put his name forward because he has a "burning ambition and desire to help people".Burrows said he wants to see the Ulster Unionist Party "grow" and "be on the front foot to bring electoral gains".
'I want Northern Ireland to work'
"I do believe in Northern Ireland, and I believe in its place in the Union," he said."I think we need to advocate for it with the same pride and passion as those who believe in a united Ireland.""I think they lead the running in that commentary, and we need to catch up."Burrows said issues such as the cost of living, support for adults with children with special educational needs (SEN), illegal immigration, housing, and particularly tackling violence against women and girls, are high on his list of priorities."These issues repeat and repeat, and we need solutions," he said."Violence against women, girls, and children in our society is at an epidemic level."They are getting murdered in their homes and on the streets."I will be the first to ask awkward questions of the police, of the justice minister, and everyone else - so we can have less women and girls dying in our streets."
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