Devenney may quit Stormont

A spokesman at DUP party headquarters in Belfast last night confirmed that discussions had taken place with Mr Devenney, but at the time of going to print the spokesman said no final decision had been reached.

“The DUP party is keen to work with all representatives to help them serve constituents at whatever level they wish to do so. All we can say is that no final decision has been reached and Mr Devenney has not advised us of what his decision is,”he said.

Mr Devenney stepped into the role of MLA following the move by Lord Hay to the House of Lords in London, following his retirement as Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly.

It is understood that he is currently considering his path within the party locally, and speculation is mounting that an announcement may be made at either tomorrow, Thursday’s meeting of the new supercouncil or at the first official meeting of the new council at the start of April.

The Londonderry DUP office declined to comment, referring the Sentinel to head office in Belfast.