Conor Murphy steps down as NI minister on medical grounds

Northern Ireland Economy Minister Conor Murphy is standing down from his post on medical grounds, Sinn Féin vice-president Michelle O’Neill has said.

Ms O’Neill said that former executive minister Deirdre Hargey will step in to his ministerial portfolio on an interim basis.

Earlier this week, Ms O’Neill released a statement to say that Mr Murphy would not be giving evidence to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry as scheduled today as he had received medical advice to rest.

This evening, Ms O’Neill said Mr Murphy was standing down tonight as minister on medical grounds.

Ms O’Neill said: “Conor has been advised by his doctor to rest and will undergo further medical tests.

“My colleagues and I all wish Conor a full and speedy recovery.

“I am nominating Deirdre Hargey to step in as economy minister on an interim basis pending Conor’s return.”