Donegal Deputy Pearse Doherty has today reiterated Sinn Fein’s stance on direct rule in Northern Ireland.
Speaking in the Dáil this afternoon, Sinn Féin Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty TD has said that there can be no return to Direct Rule in the aftermath of the DUP’s decision yesterday to collapse the talks process in the north.
DUP leader Arlene Foster said talks collapsed due to ‘serious and significant gaps’ between the DUP and Sinn Fein, particuarly on the issue of the Irish Language Act.
Deputy Doherty has today called on the Irish Government to make clear that they are in opposition to Stormont coming under direct rule.
Deputy Doherty said: “The issues involved are not going away. Sinn Féin know that, the Irish government know that, the British government know that and the DUP know that.
“These issues don’t threaten anybody. They are issues of rights. Rights for all do not mean less rights for some. I would urge the DUP to reflect on their position.
“I want to acknowledge the Tánaiste’s contribution in trying to make this work. He has been involved and engaged.
“Sinn Féin want the institutions up and running, and public services and rights being delivered for all. Sinn Féin are crystal clear on what happens next – Direct Rule is not an option.
“The Taoiseach said in December that the Irish government ‘won’t be supporting direct rule’ and in September the Tánaiste said there ‘can be no British-only direct rule’. They need to make that position clear to the British government”.
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