Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:
“Today’s meeting between the parties to discuss an executive ‘Programme for Government’ sends entirely the wrong message. Are the DUP serious about getting rid of the Protocol or are they preparing to enter government and enthrone Michelle O’Neill as First Minister?
“Coming on the back of Sir Jeffrey Donaldson’s comments in Newry & Armagh at the weekend, where he signalled a willingness to move to talks about a Programme for Government, it is hard to escape the conclusion that the DUP is shifting because of the mere promise of a Bill which while it may ameliorate the Sea Border does not remove it.
“The only card which Unionism has to play in relation to restoring our place as a full member of the United Kingdom is Stormont. That strategy should not be undermined by equivocation.”