It is vital all the commitments all the parties signed up in the New Decade, New Approach agreement are delivered, Alliance Chief Whip Kellie Armstrong MLA has said.

Ms Armstrong was speaking ahead of a meeting of the Assembly’s Business Committee this afternoon, at which the Speaker has indicated the nomination of First and Deputy First Minister is scheduled for June 21. Ms Armstrong said there was no need to wait and the nominations should take place as soon as possible.

“I requested a Business Committee meeting take place yesterday so we could get the process underway immediately but unfortunately, not all parties agreed with Alliance,” said Ms Armstrong.

“While there is seven days to nominate a new First Minister and Deputy First Minister, there is no reason why we should wait. We are in the middle of a pandemic, with the Executive due to discuss the potential easing of restrictions later this week. In addition, much legislation from various Ministers, including Naomi Long’s Justice Bill, is awaiting sign-off. None of that can happen if there is no First and Deputy First Ministers in place.

“Power-sharing was restored on the basis of the New Decade, New Approach agreement and parties knew what they were signing up for. It is vital all commitments in it are delivered faithfully. People are sick of the soap opera politics. It’s time we delivered some positive outcomes for the people of Northern Ireland.”