A political crisis in Northern Ireland has been avoided after a late-night deal over Irish language laws paved the way for Stormont leaders to be appointed.
Sinn Féin will now nominate Michelle O'Neill as deputy first minister, and the DUP's Paul Givan will be ratified as First Minister.
Following discussions with the UK's Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis, Sinn Féin says it's been given assurances that Westminster will push forward legislation protecting the Irish language in the autumn if Stormont hasn't acted on the issue by then.
The British Govt has tonight agreed to legislate for Acht Gaeilge. This is the only way to break the cycle of DUP obstruction of rights. Sinn Féin will nominate @moneillsf as Deputy First Minister. We have important work ahead.
— Mary Lou McDonald (@MaryLouMcDonald) June 16, 2021
Meanwhile, the DUP has said it isn't in the business of pre-conditions.
Its leader Edwin Poots released a statement that says the decision to set ultimatums and deadlines surrounding the Irish Language Act is unnecessary.
He said working on economic recovery, waiting lists, and schools are too important for party political games.
Main Image: File photo dated 19/12/2016 of Parliament Buildings at Stormont, Belfast.
