Call For Next DUP leader To Recognise 'Political Landscape In NI Has Changed'

The next DUP leader should "recognise that the political landscape across NI has changed", according to Sinn Fein.

Vice President Michelle O'Neill also wished Arlene Foster and her family well after she announced she is to step down as DUP leader and First Minister.

She said: "The broad community are impatient for social reform and political change which reflects a modern and progressive society where everyone can feel that they belong on an equal basis.

"As Joint Head of Government my focus, and the focus of our Executive, must remain on the task of leading us safely and sustainably out of the pandemic, building a fairer economy recovery, providing first-class public services and delivering the New Decade, New Approach deal to the benefit of every section of our society.

"This requires a genuine commitment from all political leaders to power-sharing and to work to deliver equality for women, for the LGBT community, for Irish language and identity and all sections of our community. 

"Within the Executive and Assembly, Sinn Féin will work with all parties to progress social reform, political change and economic prosperity - but we will robustly oppose damaging policies or regressive throwback politics of the past.

"The public and electorate want the parties to enter into a new era and make politics work in their interests. This is certainly my top priority now and in the time ahead."