Farren - We Must Seize The Opportunity

Commenting on the announcement this week by the two prime ministers that the Assembly would be convened on 15 May next North Antrim MLA Seán Farren said:

“For the sake of the whole community in Northern Ireland we must seize the opportunity afforded by both governments and apply every effort to getting the Assembly and its Executive fully working by November.

“Northern Ireland needs a partnership government to help heal the divisions between us, to give confidence to investors and so develop our economy in the best interests of all.

“For far too long we have not been facing up to our responsibilities and have been blaming direct rule ministers for decisions we don’t like. It’s time we took responsibility and addressed our problems ourselves.

“The DUP must now clearly and unambiguously commit to working in partnership with all parties and allow an executive to be formed. Sinn Féin must commit to working the new policing arrangements and encourage its supporters to join the police service and participate in district policing partnerships.

“There can be no more opting out of responsibilities. Now is the time for all to accept this last chance and demonstrate that they are prepared to carry out the mandate given to them by the electorate.

“If that happens then we will be able to meet November’s deadline and a new era of politics will really have begun.”