Continuing unionist infighting could lead to Joint Authority, removing the possibility of the people of Northern Ireland governing themselves, Alliance Deputy Leader Eileen Bell has warned.
Mrs Bell said: “This really is a case of Northern Ireland burning while the UUP fiddles with its own party political interests.
“A large majority wish to see devolved power-sharing government lead to peace and prosperity for all. Few support direct rule by Westminster, let alone shared rule by Westminster and Dublin, which is the only alternative in practice.
“When are the UUP going to wake up and start to seek a deal before we are being ruled as much from Dublin as we are from Westminster?
“A return to local power, a focus on the real issues concerning our citizens, such water charges and waiting lists, is what the voters want – now!”