Priority to ensure power-sharing delivers

Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill has said her priority is to “ensure the four-party Executive coalition delivers for the whole of our community now and in the future”.

It follows the news that Jeffrey Donaldson has stepped down as DUP leader after being charged with historical sexual offences.

In a statement issued shortly before 1pm, the DUP’s ruling party officer team announced that Mr Donaldson was stepping down with immediate effect.

Sinn Féin’s Michelle O’Neill said that her “priority is to continue to provide the leadership the public expect and deserve”.

She added that it is “now a matter for the criminal justice system”.

Meanwhile the leader of the Ulster Unionist Party has said that “the leadership of the DUP is a matter for the DUP”.

Donaldson resignation follows almost 40 years in politics

Doug Beattie issued a statement said that “although the circumstances are of concern and in the public interest, we are mindful that this is now a criminal investigation, and it would not be proper to comment further.

“In all matters of this nature, we must first and foremost consider the victims and what impact media and public attention will have on them,” he added.

A Government spokesperson said they are “aware of developments” and the Government “stands ready to work with Gavin Robinson, who has now been appointed as interim leader of his party”.