World For the first time, an Irish nationalist will lead Northern Ireland’s governmentAn Irish nationalist made history Saturday by becoming Northern Ireland’s first minister as the government returned to work after a two-year boycott by unionists. The two will be equals, but O’Neill, whose party captured more seats in the Northern Ireland Assembly in the 2022 elections, will hold the more prestigious title. "This is an assembly for all — Catholic, Protestant and dissenter.”U.S. President Joe Biden welcomed the restoration of the Northern Ireland executive and assembly. Northern Ireland’s 1.9 million people were left without a functioning administration as the cost of living soared and public services were strained. The new changes included legislation “affirming Northern Ireland’s constitutional status” as part of the U.K. and gives local politicians “democratic oversight” of any future EU laws that might apply to Northern Ireland.

Source: The Herald February 03, 2024 19:10 UTC