It is well established in Northern Ireland that the two largest parties work together in government. The DUP left government in February 2022. The pro-Irish party Sinn Féin won the subsequent election, but according to the Good Friday Agreement, it cannot govern without the DUP.
The Democratic Unionist Party continued its rejection until last night, because the party is not satisfied with the agreements concluded by London with the European Union regarding the status of Northern Ireland after Britain’s exit from the European Union. According to the party, the new trade rules created barriers with the rest of the United Kingdom and undermined Northern Ireland's position in it.
Briefing hours
“I am pleased to report that the party leadership has supported the proposals I have put forward to them,” Donaldson told a news conference early Tuesday morning after an hours-long briefing for DUP lawmakers and party members. “Provided that the agreements between the DUP and the UK government are actually implemented, the package of measures provides a good basis for our party’s return to government.”
Donaldson said he would reveal more details about his decision later. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said she hoped Northern Ireland would have a government again in just over a week.
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