Giving Northern Ireland a say over the introduction of new EU laws would at least introduce a measure of democracy into the system.
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“What is clear however is that even amongst proponents of reform there is currently no consensus on what that reform should entail.”
Evidence is mounting that the Assembly simply doesn’t – and perhaps can’t – deliver good government consistently. But the deal which founded it is treated as holy writ.
Even if the DUP and Sinn Fein could persuade their communities to back the compromises necessary, they have not done so.
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Hammond tries to lure Stormont back to its feet with yet more powers; Scots Tories highlight Budget role; and more.
Also: Scottish Labour plunge into chaos again as interim leader resigns; Brokenshire threatens MLAs’ pay; MPs debate ‘indyref2’; and more.
Also: Brokenshire challenges Brussels to find a ‘creative solution’ for Northern Ireland; Jones faces calls to quit after colleague’s apparent suicide; Salmond bids for control of anti-independence paper.
If the Northern Irish Office is manifestly unwilling to move towards direct rule, it has no leverage against Ulster’s recalcitrant legislators.
The manifesto makes collapsing devolution far less tempting for Sinn Fein and could give unionists the confidence and breathing space to reform.
The general election may have put the latest crisis on hold, but the dominance of Stormont’s ‘big two’ will keep causing problems.
“It is extremely disappointing that an Executive has not been formed in Northern Ireland today. There will be widespread dismay across the community.”
Perhaps voters are waiting to see the outcome of the negotiations, or maybe the economic reality of Ulster’s reliance on Great Britain is key to swing voters.
It doesn’t support the EU and Irish Government narratives that are being pushed as part of the Brexit negotiations.