Dup Strikes Deal to Return Power-Sharing to Northern Ireland

News Desk
Islamabad: DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson has announced that his party is supporting a return to power-sharing in Stormont, contingent on the British Government delivering promised legislation to mitigate the impact of post-Brexit trade rules.
This decision could potentially lead to the restoration of the Stormont Executive within days, ending a suspension lasting almost two years.
The DUP had previously withdrawn from devolution in protest against the Northern Ireland Protocol and the subsequent Windsor Framework, which they believed undermined Northern Ireland’s position within the UK.
Following a nearly five-hour meeting of the party’s ruling executive, Donaldson stated that their concerns had been addressed.
In a press conference held in the early hours of the morning, Donaldson outlined that the party had endorsed the proposals, pending the full and faithful delivery of binding commitments by the UK government.
The package of measures, if implemented as agreed, provides a basis for the DUP to nominate members to the Northern Ireland Executive, facilitating the restoration of locally elected institutions.
Donaldson mentioned that the agreement, details of which will be published, ensures the safeguarding of Northern Ireland’s place in the Union. Notable elements include the elimination of customs checks on goods remaining in Northern Ireland from Great Britain and not crossing into the Republic or the EU’s Single Market.
The leader did not disclose specific details of the vote on the proposals but emphasized a decisive majority in favor. He stated that the party has secured cross-party support for the deal in the House of Commons, anticipating a quick debate and approval.
The other Northern Ireland parties entitled to seats in the Stormont Executive will meet with the DUP to discuss the next steps. The British Government is expected to publish the agreement text, with legislation potentially passing through the House of Commons on Thursday. If this timetable holds, a Stormont Assembly meeting to elect a First and Deputy First Minister could take place on Saturday.
The decision has received support from Northern Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris, who confirmed the British Government’s commitment to the financial package. Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald welcomed the development, expressing optimism for the restoration of devolution before the legal deadline of 8 February.
However, unionist critics accused the DUP of a “sellout” and betrayal, asserting that key issues related to the Irish Sea Border and the Union-dismantling Protocol remain unaddressed.