Leaders and officials from major political parties in Northern Ireland gathered at Stormont Castle to hash out the priorities for the first day of the new government. In attendance were representatives from Sinn Féin, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), the Alliance Party, and the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP), who engaged in talks after the UUP confirmed they would join the executive instead of opting for an official opposition.
The Northern Ireland Assembly is gearing up to reconvene after a two-year break, following an agreement on post-Brexit trade rules with the government. DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson announced the end of their boycott after MPs passed legislation related to the new deal.
Friday’s meeting honed in on outlining the immediate priorities for the incoming executive, with a commitment to restoring devolution. The Assembly is scheduled to meet on Saturday at 13:00 GMT.
BBC News NI reported that MLAs can expect their full salaries to be restored in the coming days.
Saturday’s agenda includes the election of a new speaker in the assembly chamber, a necessary step before the nominated parties can form the executive. Sinn Féin will nominate the first minister, having secured the most seats in the May 2022 election. The DUP, as the largest unionist party, will nominate a deputy first minister, with Emma Little-Pengelly anticipated for the role.
The Alliance Party, led by Naomi Long, has yet to confirm whether it will join the government or opposition. Speculation abounds regarding the distribution of Stormont departments, decided through a cross-community vote.
The Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP), the fifth-largest party, will take up opposition as it doesn’t qualify for the executive. SDLP assembly member Matthew O’Toole stressed the opposition’s role in holding the executive accountable.
The return of a power-sharing executive will trigger a £3.3 billion package from the UK Treasury, aimed at supporting public services in Northern Ireland. DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson highlighted the need for additional funding beyond the one-year coverage of public sector pay awards.
Legal opinions from former Northern Ireland Attorney General John Larkin KC were published by a group of unionists, challenging the perceived restoration of Article 6 of the Act of Union. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson dismissed the legal opinion, emphasizing the changes achieved through the recent deal.
The unfolding events mark a significant moment in Northern Ireland’s political landscape, with key decisions and appointments expected in the coming days.
