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Robinson confirmed as DUP leader | Robinson confirmed as DUP leader |
(20 minutes later) | |
Peter Robinson has been confirmed as the next leader of the Democratic Unionist Party. | Peter Robinson has been confirmed as the next leader of the Democratic Unionist Party. |
The unanimous decision of the party's assembly group to appoint Mr Robinson was ratified by its 120-member executive committee on Thursday night. | The unanimous decision of the party's assembly group to appoint Mr Robinson was ratified by its 120-member executive committee on Thursday night. |
The meeting also saw North Belfast MP Nigel Dodds confirmed as deputy leader. Both appointments were again backed unanimously. | The meeting also saw North Belfast MP Nigel Dodds confirmed as deputy leader. Both appointments were again backed unanimously. |
Ian Paisley is to resign as DUP leader and NI first minister in June. | Ian Paisley is to resign as DUP leader and NI first minister in June. |
Mr Robinson and Mr Dodds, in a joint statement, said they were "deeply honoured" to be given the responsibility to lead the party. | |
"We want to pay tribute to Dr Paisley and the stirling service which he has given," they said. | |
"The DUP and Northern Ireland owe a great debt of gratitude to Dr Paisley for his leadership over many decades. | |
"He has a unique ability and it would be foolish for anyone to try and mimic his style of leadership." | |
'Great responsibility' | |
Ian Paisley, congratulating the new leadership, said: "There is great responsibility in leading the largest political party in Northern Ireland, but I have full confidence that the new leadership team will lead the DUP on to many successes in the future." | |
Mr Paisley has led the DUP since its formation in 1971. Mr Robinson has been deputy leader for 28 years, with one short break. | |
Mr Paisley's resignation will trigger the removal of Martin McGuinness as deputy first minister. | |
However, the Sinn Fein minister will remain in position in a caretaker capacity until being renominated with Mr Robinson. | However, the Sinn Fein minister will remain in position in a caretaker capacity until being renominated with Mr Robinson. |