‘Stormont needs to look at raising its own revenue’ – New Northern Secretary’s pointed warning on first visit since appointment

Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn buys cookies during a visit to St George’s Market in Belfast, following the Labour Party’s victory in the 2024 General Election. Photo: Niall Carson/PA

Jonathan McCambridge

The Stormont Executive will have to look at raising its own revenue to help deal with public sector budget pressures, new Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn has said.

Mr Benn notably failed to promise that the dilapidated Casement Park GAA stadium would be regenerated in time for the Euro 2028 football tournament co-hosted by Ireland and Britain, but said it would be built “one way or another”.