DUP turmoil won't threaten power-sharing, says O'Neill

Power-sharing in Northern Ireland is not at risk despite the turmoil in the DUP following the shock resignation of party leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson over sex offence charges, Stormont's first minister has said. Sinn Fein vice-president Michelle O'Neill said she had approached the leaders of the three other parties in the ministerial executive in Belfast - the DUP, Alliance, and Ulster Unionists – to ensure “cohesion” amid the political fallout.

- DAVID YOUNG

Sir Jeffrey, 61, quit as DUP leader on Friday after being charged by police; he and a 57-year-old woman were both charged and are due to appear in court later this month. Gavin Robinson, 39, was swiftly appointed interim DUP leader. The deal that restored power-sharing earlier this year hinged on the backing of Sir Jeffrey, and his sudden exit from the political front line has prompted renewed speculation around the stability of the devolved institutions.

Mr Robinson’s views are closely aligned with Sir Jeffrey’s political strategy, but his election as permanent leader is not a foregone conclusion and it remains to be seen whether other candidates, potentially more sceptical of the return of devolution, will emerge.

Ms O’Neill held talks with Mr Robinson and the other party leaders on Friday. “I think everybody was shocked,” she said. “[It’s] a very challenging time, not least for those people that have come forward to the police.