Speaking in Dublin as the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference met, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald TD says it is clear that it is decision time and that public patience has run out with the endless two-way negotiation between the DUP and the British Government.

Ms McDonald said:

“There is now an onus on Jeffrey Donaldson and the DUP to get back around the Executive table with the rest of the parties to urgently deliver for workers, families, and local businesses.

“Parties must work together on budgets, and together press the British Treasury on the underfunding of public services which are in crisis, and the clear need for a financial package that meets the challenges facing any restored Executive.”

She added: 

“We need all of the institutions, the Assembly, the Executive, and the north-south bodies restored now.

“We have maintained contact with both the British and Irish Governments and we have been consistently calling for progress and timely action.

“I think all of us have been pragmatic in giving space and time, but people cannot wait any longer.

“The British government must now call time.

“At every turn, Sinn Féin has been making the case that we urgently need an Executive to fix the health service, support people with the cost of living, and strengthen our economy by seizing the huge economic opportunities available to us and which cannot be squandered.

“It’s time now to move forward.”