Resignation of NI's First Minister comes into effect
It means Stormont no longer has a fully functional Executive
The resignation of Northern Ireland’s First Minister has come into effect, meaning Stormont no longer has a fully functional Executive.
Paul Givan has left the post in a show of opposition over the post-Brexit Protocol.
It means significant policy decisions can no longer be made at Executive level, although Assembly members will still be able to carry out their duties.
Before the change came into effect at midnight there was a scramble to sign off on some political decisions including the appointment of Ian Jeffers as Commissioner for Victims and Survivors, and Dame Brenda King as Attorney General.
Meanwhile, Health Minister Robin Swann is seeking legal advice on what it means for future decisions on covid restrictions.
He said, “I have sought urgent legal clarification regarding the decisions on Covid restrictions I had really hoped could have been made by the Executive next week. My priority is and will remain supporting our health and social care system, but patients and staff deserve better than this.”
“My intention has been to see a significant removal of Covid restrictions, replaced by guidance, at the earliest opportunity. I believe that time is very close. I will have more to say on this in the coming days, guided by legal advice and the latest public health assessments.”
It's understood leaders of four Executive parties will meet later to discuss how to progress outstanding legislation.