DUP blocks joint engagements with Sinn Féin First Minister
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 29 Oct, 16:35 · Archive
The DUP has stopped its deputy First Minister from participating in joint engagements with Sinn Féin's First Minister Michelle O'Neill.
DUP leader Gavin Robinson announced on Thursday that deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly will cease participating in joint engagements with Sinn Féin First Minister Michelle O'Neill. Little-Pengelly will also not permit O'Neill to fulfil engagements on her own in the role of First Minister.
The decision follows an investigation into O'Neill and several Sinn Féin colleagues for allegedly participating in an unlawful protest on the Garvaghy Road in Portadown last month. The protest sought to prevent a contentious Orange Order parade from proceeding down the predominantly nationalist road from Drumcree Church. O'Neill attended a police station for interview and defended her presence at the protest as the 'right thing to do'.
Robinson told reporters that 'Michelle O'Neill's arrogance will have consequences for her'. While stopping short of withdrawing Little-Pengelly from her post—a move that would also force O'Neill from her role and collapse the Stormont Executive—Robinson did not give assurance he would not ultimately take that step. The practical effect of the move means O'Neill and Little-Pengelly will not attend a scheduled economic event in Glasgow on Friday with Prime Minister Andy Burnham and other UK and Scottish leaders.
How it is being reported
- DUP blocks joint engagements with Sinn Féin First Minister amid parading dispute"Michelle O’Neill’s arrogance will have consequences for her"Belfast Live · 29 Oct, 15:56
- DUP blocks joint engagements with Sinn Féin First Minister amid parading disputeBelfast Telegraph · 29 Oct, 15:53
In this story: Michelle O'Neill · Gavin Robinson · Emma Little-Pengelly · DUP · Sinn Féin · Garvaghy Road · Portadown · Drumcree Church
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