Focus on the new man
PETER Robinson hits the ground running as DUP leader on Monday, ushering in a new era in Ulster politics.
There will be no honeymoon period as he replaces Ian Paisley at the helm of party and country.
Barely was he installed as DUP chief than a host of issues landed on his desk.
First off, he said he wanted talks on cooperation with the Ulster Unionist Party that could lead to a single party being formed.
Secondly, Mr Robinson described as "ludicrous" speculation that some in Sinn Fein could withhold support for the re-nomination of Martin McGuinness as Deputy First Minister – and bring down government – in protest at unionists blocking the devolution of policing and justice.
And then it emerged that the new DUP boss is in talks with Gordon Brown's Government about the Province keeping the 200 million proceeds of old Army bases here – in exchange for DUP support in Parliament for the bid to extend detention for terrorist suspects to 42 days.
Robinson's olive branch to UUP
Praise as Paisley steps down
Paisley's farewell - in pictures
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Weather for Belfast
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Light showers
Temperature: 8 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: South west
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 7 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: South
