SDLP Upper Bann MLA Dolores Kelly has slammed the social development minister for refusing to publicly apologise to contractors named in the Assembly for alleged £18m overpayments.

Nelson McCausland was questioned by Assembly Social Development Committee members, including Ms Kelly, earlier. During the session it emerged a settlement figure between the Housing Executive and the contractors could be approved and revealed by the end of July, at the earliest.

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"The DSD minister had the opportunity to say 'sorry' publicly but he declined to take up that opportunity, remaining defiant," said Ms Kelly. "The contractors named so publicly in the Assembly were subjected to outrageous allegations they say have damaged their reputation and their businesses.

"The minister should have the good grace to apologise, especially since it emerged the settlement between the Housing Executive and the contractors involved in this scandal will be approved and signed off on, at the earliest, by the end of the July.

"However, even on the issue of the settlement the committee and the public remain in the dark. It is ridiculous to think we will be well into the summer before there is forward movement on that issue."

(CD/JP)