SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood has said that the pace in which the Secretary of State Karen Bradley is moving at to restore devolution is nothing short of embarrassing.
Mr Eastwood was responding to the NIO’s publication of guidance for departmental decision-making.
“The guidance issued by the NIO in regards to decision-making for Northern Ireland Departments during the period for Northern Ireland Executive formation marks a sad day for democracy,” said the Foyle MLA.
“No one could argue that necessary steps must be taken to ensure the delivery of basic public services during this prolonged period of political deadlock.
“However, the SDLP will not settle for this sticking plaster approach and neither should the public.
“Karen Bradley must not use this guidance as a cloak to hide behind.
“As Secretary of State it is her job to reconvene an open, inclusive and transparent talks process to ensure the reinstatement of power-sharing as quickly as possible.”
The powersharing Executive collapsed in January 2017 after deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness resigned his office claiming his DUP partners in government were not showing his party respect.
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