Robinson will be back - Foster
PETER Robinson will return to frontline politics, acting First Minister Arlene Foster has said.
Mrs Foster stressed her new role is only "temporary" as she began her first day in office on Tuesday.
Peter Robinson stepped down as First Minister on Monday for a period of up to six weeks in a bid to clear to his name over his alleged role in his wife's financial affairs.
The DUP leader, who received the backing of his party, will also take time to care for his Iris Robinson, who is receiving acute psychiatric treatemnt.
A series of inquiries are set to get underway in the coming days examining the links between the Robinsons and property developers.
On Monday night, a BBC Panorama programme revealed 5,000 remained outstanding of a loan paid to Mrs Robinson's young lover for a business enterprise.
Speaking on Radio Ulster on Tuesday morning, Mrs Foster reiterated that although she was carrying out the functions of the office, Mr Robinson remained First Minister and DUP leader.
She also predicted that he would return to office, despite newspaper reports.
"After six weeks either Peter comes back or there is a new election to the Office of First Minister and Deputy First Minister," she said.
Meanwhile, veteran MP William McCrea has spoken out in support of Mr Robinson, describing the DUP leader as the "best man to lead Ulster".
"I have been involved in front-line politics with Peter for more than 35 years: he is my friend as well as my leader," he said.
"He has shown over recent days the bravery and strength of a true Ulsterman. He has, and will continue to have my complete and total backing."
Mrs Foster retains her role as enterprise minister and appeared in the Assembly on Tuesday in that role.
Mr Robinson has confirmed he will continue "to work on the outstanding issues relating to policing and justice and some other matters".
Negotiations with Sinn Fein began on Monday night, with more intense discussions expected during the week.
Prime Minister Gordon Brown urged the local parties to strive to find a way forward in the current impasse.
"I urge all politicians in Northern Ireland, whatever the turbulence of recent events, to remain focused on the business of government, and to recognise the crucial importance of intensifying engagement in those issues which remain to be solved," he said.
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Weather for Belfast
Monday 28 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 25 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 12 C to 21 C
Wind Speed: 7 mph
Wind direction: South west
