Martin McGuinness resigns as deputy First Minister

Sinn Féin’s Martin McGuinness has tendered his resignation as deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, stating that his party will “not tolerate the arrogance of Arlene Foster and the DUP”.

His decision comes amid the ongoing row at Stormont over the renewable heating incentive scheme and the First Minister’s handling of the fall-out.

In a letter, the veteran politician said: “Over the last 10 years, I have worked with DUP leaders and reached out to unionists on the basis of equality, respect and reconciliation.

“Over this period, the actions of the British government and the DUP have undermined the institutions and eroded public confidence.”

Mr McGuinness further stated: “Sinn Féin will not tolerate the arrogance of Arlene Foster and the DUP. Sinn Féin wants equality and respect for all.

“That is what this process must be about.”

Mr McGuinness, whose resignation will take effect from 5pm on Monday, has denied that his health played any part in his decision and added that there will be “no return to the status quo”.

He ends his letter by stating that Sinn Féin will not nominate a successor to the role of deputy First Minister as they believe “we now need an election to allow people to make their own judgement on these issues democratically at the ballot box”.