Assembly Dissolved Ahead Of Election

The Northern Ireland Assembly was dissolved at midnight, bringing to end the first full term of devolved power in Northern Ireland for 40 years.

Several of the 108 assembly members will not be seeking re-election, including former First Minister, Ian Paisley, who is now known as Lord Bannside.

In his final speech, he said it was time to get away from the things in the past that everyone now deplored.

Dr Paisley commented: "It's 41 years ago since I walked in here as an elected member for my constituency in Antrim."

He added that during his time in politics he had met many prime ministers, secretaries of state, American presidents and Irish prime ministers, and his message to them had always been the same.

"Ulster would only have stable government if all parties, irrespective of our differences, signed up to supporting the rule of law, the institutions of the state and the police."

The speaker of the assembly also reflected on the past four years.

Willie Hay said during those four years 277 plenary sittings had been held, some 69 bills approved, over 11,624 oral questions taken, as well as 32,411 written questions.

Mr Hay thanked all the MLAs who are standing down and said some of them had given a lifetime of service.

The election will be held on 5 May.

(JG/KMcA)