Talks on financial offer for Stormont to resume at Hillsborough Castle

The Secretary of State will meet parties again today

NI Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris
Author: Chloe StjohnPublished 18th Dec 2023

Northern Ireland's Secretary of State will meet the four Stormont parties eligible to a power-sharing government at Hillsborough Castle later.

"Final details" are being discussed around the UK Government's £2.5 billon offer to support a potential return to power-sharing.

The financial package includes a deal on public sector pay, however party leaders have said it isn’t enough.

Over the weekend DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson told party members he expects Westminster to “advance” its current offer on Monday.

Discussions will build on last week’s engagements on Northern Ireland public finances and ensuring that the Executive is able to return on a stable footing.

Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris said, “I welcome the constructive discussions we had with the parties over the last week.”

“The parties have had time to consider the generous package offered by the Government to support Northern Ireland’s public services in the event that the Executive is restored.”

“I look forward to discussing final details with the parties over the coming days.”

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