NORTHERN Ireland First Minister Paul Givan announced his resignation today, paralysing the territory’s government because of disputes over the impact of Brexit on continued British rule.

The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) politician had been rumoured ready to resign for a week, with DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson arguing that EU withdrawal arrangements were undermining Northern Ireland’s status as an integral part of the United Kingdom by forcing customs checks between it and Britain.

Sinn Fein immediately called for an early election, warning: “We cannot stagger on for months without a functioning executive. Sinn Fein will not facilitate this. The people must have their say.”

Northern Ireland’s power-sharing agreement gives the posts of first and deputy first minister to the heads of the largest two parties, and the resignation of one triggers the resignation of the other, meaning Sinn Fein’s Michelle O’Neill automatically ceases to hold the number two role. While other ministers remain in post, this means the government cannot meet or push through legislation.

Mr Givan’s announcement came after his predecessor, Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots, ordered an end to checks on goods being shipped from Northern Ireland to Britain, though civil servants reportedly did not implement the instruction. 

The escalation of their long-standing opposition to the Northern Ireland Protocol, part of Britain’s EU withdrawal agreement, is thought to be linked to poor polling that points to Sinn Fein becoming the largest party at elections due in May — which would give Northern Ireland a first minister committed to Irish reunification for the first time.

Sinn Fein president Mary-Lou McDonald said it was a “disgrace” that the DUP had pulled down power-sharing when crucial legislation was in the pipeline, and denounced the decision as “narrow and self-serving.”

“The DUP actions have consequences for people struggling with the cost of living, consequences for businesses trying to rebuild after Covid, consequences for our health service, for waiting lists.

“And it is a matter of disgrace that the budget now won’t be passed.”

Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said: “The decision by the DUP to withdraw the first minister from the Northern Ireland executive is extremely disappointing.

“I urge [the DUP] to reinstate the first minister immediately to ensure the necessary delivery of public services for the citizens of Northern Ireland.”