Foster And McGuinness Reappointed As First Minister And Deputy First Minister

Arlene Foster and Martin McGuinness have officially been reappointed as Northern Ireland's First Minister and deputy First Minister.

Arlene Foster said: "I am deeply humbled to have affirmed the pledge of office and to return to Stormont as Northern Ireland’s First Minister. When I became First Minister in January, I said I could think of no greater honour than to serve my country and the people of Northern Ireland. Today, that sense of honour is magnified.

"I believe in the coming days we can agree a Programme for Government that can deliver for everyone in Northern Ireland. One that will keep us moving forward in a safer, peaceful and more prosperous place. There may be hurdles and difficulties along the way but we stand on the cusp of a new and exciting era for Northern Ireland."

Mr McGuinness said: "I have had the enormous honour and responsibility of serving as deputy First Minister since May 2007. I return as deputy First Minister with renewed energy, enthusiasm and determination to continue the forward momentum of our society.

"The peace and political process has been a journey for all of us. There have been many challenges, difficulties and many predictions of collapse. But we have confounded the sceptics and negative voices as we continue our journey forward. The Fresh Start Agreement does give us the space to do things better. The new Programme for Government will, I am confident, build on the opportunities that now exist for better, more strategic and coordinated government. This Assembly term provides the opportunity for political stability, economic growth and social progress. The challenge is to make this a reality."

Mr Robin Newton of the DUP was also appointed the new Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly.

(CD)