First Minister 'chose electioneering over responsibilities as minister'

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly has accused First Minister Michelle O’Neill of prioritizing electioneering over her ministerial duties during tensions surrounding the Drumcree parading dispute. The Assembly heard that Little-Pengelly requested O’Neill issue a statement urging for calm, as tensions escalated between the two parties.

The ongoing impasse at the former flashpoint in Portadown has widened divisions between the DUP and Sinn Féin. Unionists have criticized O’Neill for her presence on the Garvaghy Road, where crowds gathered and prevented a Parades Commission ruling from being executed. O’Neill has stated her support for residents opposing the parade, claiming it is the "right thing" to do.

Little-Pengelly argued that Sinn Féin has "done significant damage" to O’Neill's position, emphasizing that upholding the law is the core responsibility of a First Minister. She accused Sinn Féin of flooding the area for "electioneering" purposes and suggested she asked O’Neill to "stand with me" to call for calm. Little-Pengelly expressed deep frustration at the situation, stating that she has spoken to many people who are "genuinely appalled" by O’Neill's actions.