Wilson to consult in constituency

The Stormont Finance Minister said he welcomed the Hillsborough agreement, adding: “I look forward to discussing it with my constituents in East Antrim during the consultation period.”

Mr Wilson said: “The DUP has held the view that the devolution of policing and justice powers to the NI Assembly can only take place when the terms were right. We believe that we have now reached that point.

“Because of DUP negotiation there will be no Sinn Fein Justice Minister, politicians will not have the power to appoint judges, there will be no further all Ireland bodies, the Parades Commission will not be in place by this time next year and we have secured an extra 800 million for the police and judicial system. Sinn Fein demands for an Irish Language Act have been refused.

“I understand that many people in the community have questions that they want to ask about this agreement and I look forward to answering these and hearing their views.”

The DUP representative claimed the party’s position had been “misrepresented” by critics including TUV leader jim Allister.

Mr Wilson said: “I would encourage people to read the agreement and see for themselves the terms that have been negotiated and I believe that they will welcome and support the merits of it.”