Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness resigns as Mid-Ulster MP
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| Quote: Martin McGuinness has confirmed that he has formally resigned as the MP for Mid-Ulster. "I have served formal notice of my resignation from the position of MP for Mid-Ulster with immediate effect. This is in line with my party's commitment to end double jobbing," he said. Mr McGuinness will remain as the Deputy First Minister for Northern Ireland. Mr McGuinness was elected MP for Mid-Ulster in 1997, but he has never taken his seat in Westminster. The party has an abstentionist policy, with all of its MPs refusing to attend Parliament. "I am resigning as MP but I have no intention of leaving Mid-Ulster. South Derry and East Tyrone have suffered immensely as a result of the conflict," he said. "I will always be grateful to the people of this area for trusting me to represent them and their interests. I will of course continue to represent the Mid-Ulster Constituency in the Assembly. "I am honoured to do so, both as an MLA and as deputy first minister in equal partnership with Peter Robinson." A by-election is expected to be held in the New Year. Francie Molloy will contest the seat for Sinn Fein. | |
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