Paul Givan: First Minister expected to 'step down' from role

Northern Ireland's First Minister Paul Givan and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill
Author: Nigel GouldPublished 3rd Feb 2022
Last updated 3rd Feb 2022

Northern Ireland's First Minister Paul Givan could be set to resign from his position.

It is understood the DUP will make an announcement later today (Thursday).

If Mr Givan does step down, that would mean Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill would also have to follow suit due to Stormont's power-sharing arrangements.

The First Minister will have to signal his attentions by writing to the Assembly Speaker.

While the First and Deputy First Ministers would no longer be in place other ministers in the administration could still remain.

However, the Executive could not take any significant decisions.