Date Announced For Next Assembly Election

Northern Ireland Secretary of State James Brokenshire has set a date for the next Assembly election following the collapse of Stormont over the botched Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme.

Polling stations will open to the public on Thursday, 02 March,.

Mr Martin McGuinness resigned as deputy First Minister last week and the party refused to renominate another person for the post.

DUP Leader Arlene Foster was put out of her job as First Minister because they hold joint office, however the party has renominated her.

Mr Brokenshire said: "No one should underestimate the challenge faced to the political institutions here in Northern Ireland and what is at stake. While it is inevitable that debate during an election period will be intense, I would strongly encourage the political parties to conduct this election with a view to the future of Northern Ireland and re-establishing a partnership government at the earliest opportunity after that poll. This is essential for the operation of devolved government. And this means that all must remain open to dialogue.

"The Government continues to stand firmly behind its commitment to the Belfast Agreement and its successors and our responsibilities to safeguard political stability here in Northern Ireland. We will continue to do all that we can to find a way forward and secure the continuation of devolved government."

Alliance Leader Naomi Long MLA said: "Those who will try to paint this election as orange and green are trying to manipulate the public based on fear, however, I have confidence the public will see through that and recognise the real choice is between those who are accountable and those who aren't, those who are competent and those who aren't, and those who have a progressive and inclusive vision for all of our people, and those who only wish to serve one section of the community.

"Alliance is committed to seeing the institutions back up and running as soon as possible - we want to work with others to build a better future.

"This is a huge opportunity for Northern Ireland to turn a corner. If we re-elect the same people, we will face the same problems but if we resist the temptation to vote out of fear and instead vote in hope - if we use our vote positively - then we can end carve-up politics and deliver genuine powersharing."

The Assembly will sit for the last time on Wednesday, 25 January.

(CD)