A number of parties in Northern Ireland will be standing in the general election.

Although politics in the country is devolved – which means that most day-to-day politics happens in the Assembly, or Stormont, as part of a power-sharing agreement – people still get to elect MPs to represent them in Westminster.

FactCheck takes a look at the manifestos of the four parties that currently hold seats at Westminster – and what they’re promising voters heading to the polls.

Democratic Unionist Party

The party currently has eight seats at Westminster. Among a multitude of pledges, its 2024 election manifesto says it will:

– Press the next Government to ensure that funding cannot drop below the definition of assessed need in Northern Ireland – £124 for every £100 spent in England.
– Support proposals to increase the Tax-Free Childcare allowance from 20% to 35%; and remove the cap on Tax Free Childcare above £2,000
– Invest more in national infrastructure
– Stand up for victims of crime

Sinn Féin

The party technically currently has seven seats at Westminster (but it has historically abstained from taking up these seats when elected). Its 2024 election manifesto says it wants:

• – A stronger and fairer economy that delivers good jobs that pay well, offers workers secure conditions, and supports local business.
  – To increase productivity and opportunities for skills and training, regional balance in investment and job opportunities, accessible and affordable childcare – including for those with Special Educational Needs
  – To meet climate change targets through a fair and just transition to net zero.
  – To continue to fight for a fair funding model for the North which meets the needs of public services

Social Democratic and Labour Party

The party currently has two seats at Westminster. Its 2024 election manifesto pledges to:

• – Provide better public services for all – reducing hospital waiting lists with additional investment in health
  – Provide an improved funding model for Northern Ireland
  – Provide a fairer economy for all
  – Recognise the State of Palestine and end arms exports to Israel

Alliance Party

The party currently has two seats at Westminster. Its 2024 election manifesto pledges to:

• – Deliver an improved financial settlement for Northern Ireland which allows investment in public services and economy.
  – Create a Green New Deal to decarbonise the economy, protect workers, tackle fuel poverty, and create thousands of jobs.
  – Support families with childcare costs by demanding more generous tax relief and the creation of a new childcare strategy for Northern Ireland
  – Advocate for a fair, welcoming, and effective immigration system that upholds human rights and meets the needs of the economy.
• (Image credit: Mark Marlow/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)