The First Minister of Northern Ireland has resigned.
The DUP's Paul Givan is quitting after only eight months in the role, in protest over the Northern Ireland protocol.
His resignation means Michelle O'Neill is automatically removed from her post as joint head at Stormont.
Mr Givan posted to his Twitter account to break the news saying "the privilege of my lifetime to serve the people of Northern Ireland. Thank you."
The privilege of my life time to serve the people of Northern Ireland. Thank you. pic.twitter.com/2NrXMrKDAq
— Paul Givan (@paulgivan) February 3, 2022
The British government's being accused of standing idly by as political uncertainty sets in at Stormont.
It follows Westminster saying it's not intervening over a decision by the DUP Agriculture Minister to suspend checks at ports.
Britain's environment secretary says there have been no changes to checks on items going into Northern Ireland from Britain.
More to follow.....
Image: Paul Givan Twitter
