NI Health Minister Resigns

Northern Ireland Health Minister Jim Wells has confirmed he has resigned.

The DUP MLA said he will focus on helping his sick wife Grace during her "fight for life".

Mr Wells recently came under fire for comments he made linking child abuse and gay relationships. He later released an apology.

Mr Wells said in a statement: "Consequently I met with Peter and requested to stand down from Ministerial office. I really appreciate the opportunity I was given to be Health Minister. I will leave the department with great memories and a massive appreciation for the work being carried out at every level of the service. I was touched at Peter's willingness to put other supportive arrangements in place to allow me more time with Grace but the portfolio requires more undivided attention than I can now give so I believe my decision is the right one. As the leader has asked me to assist with an orderly transition within the department my resignation will take effect from Monday 11 May.  

"My focus will be on Grace and supporting my family. The events of the last week have taken place against the backdrop of a difficult period. 

"On the issue of comments I have made which have attracted significant publicity, I have already said sorry for the offence caused and acknowledged that the comments were factually inaccurate. At no time did I set out to hurt or offend anyone and it has upset me greatly that the comments made have caused distress to some within our community. I am deeply saddened that some of those who represent a different viewpoint from me have attacked my family and me in a deeply personal, nasty and in some cases threatening way. Some of the outbursts on social media have been particularly abusive and menacing in nature."

(CD)