Secretary of State for Northern Ireland holds talks with party leaders

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, has held talks with party leaders after the deadline for restoration of the Executive passed.

Newly appointed Chris Heaton-Harris met with Vice President of Sinn Féin Michelle O’Neill, leader of the Democratic Unionist Party Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, leader of the Alliance Party Naomi Long and leader of the Ulster Unionist Party Doug Beattie in Belfast.

During the talks, he explained that he was under a legal duty to call an election now the deadline had passed.

He expressed concerns about problems facing people in Northern Ireland that are exacerbated by the lack of executive, such as the cost-of-living crisis, pressure on the health services and financial overspend.

Heaton-Harris said: “I had conversations with party leaders today and expressed how disappointed I am that under current legislation the legal duty now falls on me to call an election. I listened to the party leaders’ various views on calling that election.”

“There are important issues of government to be dealt with due to the absence of ministers.

“I am particularly worried that the Executive has an enormous black hole in its budget, which potentially has serious implications for the delivery of many of Northern Ireland’s public services. Measures to set a budget will be required in the short term.

“I will provide a further update on next steps in due course.”

Image: By Richard Townshend