Cross-Community Consensus 'Key To Unlocking' Executive – DUP

The key to "unlocking the door" to the Executive is cross-community consensus and addressing the concerns of unionists, DUP Leader, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson.

Speaking after meeting the Secretary of State, Chris Heaton-Harris, Mr Donaldson said: "We will continue to engage with the Government in relation to the Windsor Framework and what is required to ensure that Northern Ireland's place within the United Kingdom is respected.

"To have stable and sustainable government in Northern Ireland requires cross-community consensus and the concerns of unionists must be addressed by the Government. That is key to unlocking the door to the restoration of stable and sustainable devolution. We need a solid foundation, not just a quick-fix.

"Setting a budget is one of the key tasks for any government and we need Treasury to recognise the challenges we face in Northern Ireland. Public sector workers are entitled to a fair pay deal, and those in Northern Ireland must be properly rewarded for their work. We will drive forward a reform agenda in any restored Executive to ensure our public finances and public services are fit for purpose. That is a task which the Government can assist by providing the foundation necessary for that reform to take place."