The Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action, the main policy support body for the community and voluntary sector, has set out its stall in relation to how it wants local groups to influence their members across the North in the EU referendum election in a week’s time.
Chief Executive Seamus McAleavey said in a letter to members that “I do believe the decision is the biggest one facing the electorate in this generation and the result will have lasting implications for the next generation. The outcome will have a major impact on everyone in Northern Ireland.
“As charities we must always act in the best interest of the people, families, communities and causes we represent. On this basis you will know NICVA Executive Committee took the decision to support the campaign for the UK to REMAIN in the European Union. I am asking you therefore to encourage people to vote Remain.
“This is because we believe it is in the best interests of the lives and livelihoods of people here in Northern Ireland.
“If the UK votes to leave the EU I see negative consequences following. There will be tight control of UK Borders to cut migration, there is every likelihood of renewed tariffs and customs checks. That will hit jobs in Northern Ireland as so much of our trade and economy is linked to the Republic of Ireland. These are real jobs in construction, agri-food, transport, tech development and financial services.
“The very areas of our economy we are trying to regenerate and renew. The UK will also lose foreign investment and that will have more economic consequences. The country will be poorer and any potential benefits that might be derived from contributing less to the EU post BREXIT will evaporate. If the UK suffers by making a mistake on the referendum Northern Ireland will ultimately suffer the most, as this bad decision will hurt the poorest regions worst. The Treasury will not meet Common Agricultural Policy financial commitments in Northern Ireland; nor the ESF support for people to get back into employment and I expect a further squeeze on public expenditure.
“This is a decision we cannot leave to others. It is important that civic society across Northern Ireland sends out a clear message that we support a strong, vibrant and welcoming Northern Ireland firmly within the European Union. There is a real chance that the electorate could sleep walk into leaving and then it is very likely we will see an extension to the period of austerity we have faced these last eight years for many more years to come.
“I urge you to promote REMAIN,” added Mr McAleavey.
