Northern Ireland Office

Restoration of devolved Government remains on track following today’s publication by the Government of legislation for a new Assembly, Secretary of State Peter Hain MP has said.

The Northern Ireland (St Andrews Agreement) Bill received its first reading in the House of Commons today and will be debated in both houses of Parliament next week.

The publication of the legislation fulfils a commitment given by the Government at St Andrews and will give effect to the St Andrews Agreement.

Peter Hain said: “The twin pillars of power sharing and support for the rule of law will be set in statute once this legislation passes through Parliament. It will create a new era of political stability for the first time in Northern Ireland’s history.

“Devolution gives local politicians the power to take local decisions about local issues. I hope they will grasp this opportunity and fulfil the obligations for which they have long been elected.”

The Northern Ireland (St Andrews Agreement) Bill includes the Pledge of Office for minister to the new Assembly and confirms that there will be an election on March 7.

The Secretary of State said: “Restoration of devolved Government remains on track, but politicians face the choice, either devolution or dissolution.

“The Assembly will sit on Friday, November 24 and on March 7, the people will speak through an election and the parties will be given a mandate for the St Andrews Agreement.

“This is a crucial period in Northern Ireland’s history with the prize of devolution on March 26. I am confident that MLAs want to grasp the opportunity and get to work in a power sharing Executive.”