Northern Ireland government collapses after McGuinness resignation
The power sharing government in Northern Ireland has collapsed and an election will follow after Sinn Fein refused to nominate a replacement for Martin McGuinness, who resigned from his position as Deputy First Minister a week ago.
McGuinness stood down from his position in response to the First Minister Arlene Foster's botched handling of the Renewable Heat Incentive, also citing other actions such as the DUP's Paul Givan's decision to cut funding for the Irish language.
After his resignation, Sinn Fein had seven days to nominate a replacement before the institutions would be dissolved and elections ensued.
Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire is expected to call for an election, which will take place in the next few months.
The RHI scheme was set up in 2012 with the goal of rewarding businesses, which use renewable energy, but serious flaws in its implementation led to an overspend of an estimated £490m.
Foster criticised the actions of Sinn Fein on Monday as the clock ticked down on its seven-day period, saying that the population of Northern Ireland does not want an election.
"They have forced an election that risks Northern Ireland's future and stability and which suits nobody but themselves," Foster said.
Sinn Fein assembly member Michelle O'Neill echoed many of the sentiments expressed by McGuinness in his letter of resignation, referring to the "arrogance" and "disrespect" shown by the DUP.
"Sinn Féin will only be part of institutions which work and deliver for all in the community," she said. "There can be no return to the status quo. If something is broken, you stop and you fix it."