Ulster Unionist Party Leader, Robin Swann MLA has described today’s statement by the Secretary of State as underwhelming and repeated his call for publication of the accommodation which she confirmed was reached by the DUP and Sinn Fein. 

Ulster Unionist Leader, Robin Swann MLA, said:

“I found today`s statement from the Secretary of State underwhelming. I appreciate that she has a very difficult job to do in trying to resolve this situation but unfortunately I believe today`s statement only further indulges those who demonstrate intransigence and ineptitude in the face of the very real challenges facing Northern Ireland.

“The fact that the Secretary of State stated that the parties “reached a balanced and fair accommodation on the difficult issues of language and culture …and how this was reflected in a package of legislation” begs the question, if that`s the case, people deserve to know exactly what was agreed. Parties who the Secretary of State no doubt will expect to participate in future talks need to know what is in the accommodation. To be honest they can call it whatever they like to spare the blushes of the DUP and Sinn Fein negotiating teams. The Secretary of State`s comments reinforce our previous calls for publication of the talks documentation. They should be published at the first opportunity. Publish them now and be done with it.

“Over the last few days there has been widespread speculation about what was or wasn`t agreed. What we do know is that what has been published online by Eamonn Mallie and Brian Rowan has not been refuted by either of the two parties or the Government despite being given ample time and space to do so.

“If there is to be a successful outcome to any talks process there will have to be a change in approach and this must be led by the Government. Those involved must hear from the Government that if an agreement cannot be reached under the current structures then they will actively consider alternatives. We cannot continue to pander to the lowest common denominator and have the country held to ransom. The people of Northern Ireland deserve government and preferably devolved government. Continued non-government should not be acceptable.”