Ulster Unionist leader, Robin Swann MLA, has stated that people need to be told the truth about the current talks process – if there isn`t going to be agreement this side of the DUP and Sinn Fein party conferences.
Robin Swann MLA said:
“Why don`t the two largest parties tell the people the truth? Is there going to be any agreement this side of the DUP and Sinn Fein party conferences? I can't see it unless there`s a dramatic change in attitude. Arlene Foster isn`t going to go to her party conference to sell a deal which contains an Irish Language Act, stand-alone or otherwise, and Gerry Adams isn`t going to go to Sinn Fein`s with a deal which doesn`t have one.
“It`s time to end this charade and start planning for alternatives such as voluntary coalition. Why should this country be held to ransom for the advantage of any political party? Sinn Fein`s demands framed as rights cannot, and should not, be allowed to trump the rights of the sick and vulnerable. The Government needs to step in and act now.”