A 'lame duck', says Gardiner

THE Ulster Unionist Party has described Arlene Foster as a 'lame duck' following the decision by the DUP to appoint her to the position of Acting First Minister while Peter Robinson deals with the financial allegations surrounding his wife's finances.

By The Newsroom

Published 12th Jan 2010, 12:25 BST

Updated 12th Jan 2010, 15:48 BST

UUP MLA Sam Gardiner said: “The events that have led to the appointment of Arlene Foster as First Minister are sad and first of all I would like to say that the personal problems within the Robinson family deserve sympathy and I recognise his need to take time off to deal with family issues.

“However we must consider the implications his actions will have on the political institutions in Northern Ireland and the competence of an Executive which will be essentially putting business on hold if or until Mr Robinson returns. Acting purely in a caretaker capacity, Arlene will not be able to make decisions needed to ensure proper working devolution.”

Mr Gardiner added: “Now is the time for strong leadership not two lame duck first ministers.

“This is typical action from the DUP and although I sympathise with the personal tragedy I cannot help but think that this is the DUP putting party before country.”