The government is set to publish details of its deal with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) to restore Stormont power-sharing later on Wednesday, with legislation potentially fast-tracked through Parliament on Thursday. The move follows the DUP's endorsement of the agreement on Monday, subject to the proposed laws being passed.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hailed the "significant steps" taken by the DUP, while Sinn Féin deputy leader Michelle O'Neill said she is "absolutely up to the task" of becoming first minister. As the largest party, Sinn Féin will nominate Ms O'Neill, with the DUP entitled to the deputy first minister role. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer described it as an "important moment".
The DUP is investigating after parts of a speech by leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson about the deal were leaked online. BBC News NI understands it was leaked by a party executive member wearing a wire, with details posted by loyalist activist Jamie Bryson. During a briefing to councillors on Tuesday night, their phones were taken to prevent further leaks.
Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris is expected to update Parliament on the deal, saying there were "some significant changes" and that it would "secure Northern Ireland's place in the UK internal market". He added that the plans have not affected the UK's ability to diverge from EU rules. The DUP has blocked devolution for nearly two years over post-Brexit trade arrangements.
The Loyalist Communities Council said it would study the command paper and then reconvene to determine its response. Meanwhile, main Stormont parties are meeting Irish deputy prime minister Micheál Martin in Belfast on Wednesday.
