The DUP has “systematically abused” the Assembly’s ‘petition of concern’, according to Conservative spokesman, Johnny Andrews. Mr Andrews made his comments after the party used the mechanism, intended to be implemented around issues involving sectarian sensitivities, to block same-sex marriage.
“The DUP has demonstrated that it is neither democratic nor unionist”, Johnny remarked. “It has misused a petition of concern, yet again, and it has voted down a right which is enjoyed by the rest of the UK. This type of behaviour is what is holding Northern Ireland back.”
“Both the DUP and Sinn Féin have consistently abused petitions of concern for issues which are not related to the community divide. It is time that this mechanism is reviewed, so that we get accountable democracy at the Assembly.”