Urgent Call for NI Executive Formation

Addressing Northern Ireland’s Political Standstill

Chris Heaton-Harris Emphasizes Executive Restoration

In a pivotal statement at Hillsborough Castle, Northern Ireland Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris underscored the urgency of restoring the Executive before January 18th. Following discussions with representatives of main Northern Ireland political parties, he highlighted the 23-month period that Northern Ireland has been without its elected officials actively making decisions. This gap in governance, Heaton-Harris notes, directly affects the region’s people and businesses.

The Impending Deadline and its Consequences

Election Call and Legislative Decisions Looming

Heaton-Harris pointed out the impending deadline, after which he is duty-bound to call an election. The Secretary of State faces critical decisions requiring primary legislation in Westminster if the Executive is not formed by the set date. This looming deadline adds a sense of immediacy to the ongoing political discussions.

A Generous Financial Package on Offer

Over £3 Billion to Aid a Reformed Executive

In his meetings, Heaton-Harris detailed a financial package worth over £3 billion, offered to the parties before Christmas. This substantial sum, available from the first day of a reformed Executive, aims to tackle many issues the parties have raised. It includes funding that would allow the new Executive to grant public sector workers a deserved pay award. This financial incentive is a significant factor in the push to re-establish the Executive.

Progress in Windsor Framework Talks

Encouraging Developments and Call for Action

The Secretary of State also mentioned the recent progress in the Windsor Framework talks with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP). He expressed satisfaction with the advancements made last week and urged all parties to take the necessary steps to form an executive. Heaton-Harris stressed that there appear to be no substantial barriers preventing the formation of the Executive, urging immediate action.

The Impact of Public Sector Strikes

A Call for Local Resolution of Pay Disputes

Heaton-Harris addressed the recent public sector strikes across Northern Ireland over pay disputes, acknowledging their disruptive impact on everyday life. He emphasized that public sector pay is a devolved matter, best handled by locally-elected politicians. These officials are in the prime position to address the challenges confronting citizens, particularly regarding public sector pay.

The Decision Ahead if No Executive is Formed

Potential Actions and Future Announcements

Should the Executive not be reformed by Friday, Heaton-Harris acknowledged he would face various decisions. He committed to outlining his next steps in due course, hinting at the potential actions that might be necessary in the absence of a functioning Executive.

A Call for Governance Resumption

Ending Debate and Restarting Work at Stormont

In conclusion, Heaton-Harris expressed his belief that all necessary conditions for governance are now in place. He called for an end to talks and debates, urging a return to work at Stormont. He highlighted the importance of political representatives governing on behalf of the people who elected them, emphasizing the need for action over continued discussion.