The European Union on Friday over threats to restrict vaccine exports to Northern Ireland. This followed after the UK voiced "grave concerns" over the proposed move. The EU had earlier warned that it would invoke Article-16 over its intentions to bar export of Europe-made vaccines to non-EU members. The move was being mulled&nbsp;in order to address the vaccine shortage in the continent. Invoking Article 16 results in overriding part of the Brexit deal that allow free-flow of good across the Irish border.

"The Commission will ensure that the Ireland / Northern Ireland Protocol is unaffected," the EU Commissioner said in a statement late Friday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson had earlier told EU chief Ursula von der Leyen of his "grave concerns about the potential impact" the European bloc's decision might have.

The European scheme to monitor and bar exports of vaccines produced in EU plants has also been criticised by the World Health Organization.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fauci-says-uk-coronavirus-variant-to-become-more-dominant-in-us-by-march-360187">Fauci says UK coronavirus variant to become more dominant in US by March</a> 
 
The WHO said the move was part of a "very worrying trend" that could jeopardise the global supply chain for vaccines.

Although the EU has rowed back from the Article 16 threat, a Commission statement said if there were vaccines circumventing the&nbsp;European system, "the EU will consider using all the instruments at its disposal".

The EU earlier justified the "safeguard measure" as an attempt to keep member states' vaccine rollouts on track.

(With AFP inputs)

The European Union on Friday over threats to restrict vaccine exports to Northern Ireland. This followed after the UK voiced "grave concerns" over the proposed move.

The European Union on Friday over threats to restrict vaccine exports to Northern Ireland. This followed after the UK voiced "grave concerns" over the proposed move. The EU had earlier warned that it would invoke Article-16 over its intentions to bar export of Europe-made vaccines to non-EU members. The move was being mulled in order to address the vaccine shortage in the continent. Invoking Article 16 results in overriding part of the Brexit deal that allow free-flow of good across the Irish border. "The Commission will ensure that the Ireland / Northern Ireland Protocol is unaffected," the EU Commissioner said in a statement late Friday. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson had earlier told EU chief Ursula von der Leyen of his "grave concerns about the potential impact" the European bloc's decision might have. The European scheme to monitor and bar exports of vaccines produced in EU plants has also been criticised by the World Health Organization. Also Read | Fauci says UK coronavirus variant to become more dominant in US by March The WHO said the move was part of a "very worrying trend" that could jeopardise the global supply chain for vaccines. Although the EU has rowed back from the Article 16 threat, a Commission statement said if there were vaccines circumventing the European system, "the EU will consider using all the instruments at its disposal". The EU earlier justified the "safeguard measure" as an attempt to keep member states' vaccine rollouts on track. (With AFP inputs)

EU backtracks on restrictions on COVID vaccine export to Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has confirmed a positive test for the highly infectious variant of the coronavirus that has emerged in Britain.

The country's Department of Health said in a statement the variant is likely to have been present in the British-run region for a period of time.

There was no evidence to suggest the variant causes more serious illness or a higher mortality rate or that it affects vaccines and treatments.

"While virus mutation is not uncommon, the potential of this new strain to spread rapidly is cause for serious concern," Northern Ireland's Chief Medical Officer said in the statement.

Last week, Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom, announced that nearly everyone would be subjected to the highest level of restrictions after Christmas as it enters a six-week lockdown in a bid to contain a surge in COVID-19 cases.&nbsp;

The new variant of the pandemic SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus is spreading rapidly in Britain and prompting high levels of concern among its European neighbours, some of which have cut transport links.

Northern Ireland has confirmed a positive test for the highly infectious variant of the coronavirus that has emerged in Britain. The country's Department of Health said in a statement the variant is likely to have been present in the British-run region for a period of time.

Northern Ireland has confirmed a positive test for the highly infectious variant of the coronavirus that has emerged in Britain. The country's Department of Health said in a statement the variant is likely to have been present in the British-run region for a period of time. There was no evidence to suggest the variant causes more serious illness or a higher mortality rate or that it affects vaccines and treatments. "While virus mutation is not uncommon, the potential of this new strain to spread rapidly is cause for serious concern," Northern Ireland's Chief Medical Officer said in the statement. Last week, Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom, announced that nearly everyone would be subjected to the highest level of restrictions after Christmas as it enters a six-week lockdown in a bid to contain a surge in COVID-19 cases. The new variant of the pandemic SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus is spreading rapidly in Britain and prompting high levels of concern among its European neighbours, some of which have cut transport links.

Northern Ireland confirms positive case of new coronavirus variant

Northern Ireland will be subject to unique arrangements on tax, borders and trade when the Brexit transition period ends on December 31.

London and Brussels agreed on the plan -- separate to the talks on a post-Brexit trade deal -- to prevent a hard border between the province and EU member Ireland. The frontier became a flashpoint during more than two decades of violence over British rule of Northern Ireland.

Here is what will change:

- Border rules -

Under the special arrangements, Northern Ireland will align with the EU's single market regulations and the customs union.

This means from January 1 goods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) will be travelling within the UK while in effect crossing the EU-UK border.

A pact between Brussels and London aims to minimise port checks and disruption on goods bound for Northern Ireland as their final destination.

But freight scheduled to travel onwards to Ireland or any other EU member will be subject to the same controls as all UK-EU trade, with checks taking place at Northern Irish ports and airports.

- Food checks -&nbsp;

Under the "Northern Ireland protocol", agricultural foods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain will require new paperwork and checks starting in 2021.

London and Brussels recently agreed a "grace period" until April 1 for supermarkets and suppliers to prevent disruption to food stocks, as officials warned port will not be ready to handle the checks.

- Tariffs -

The deal to minimise disruption on freight bound for Northern Ireland from mainland Britain means most goods will not face tariffs.

However, businesses will need to register for a "trusted trader&nbsp;scheme", declaring that Northern Ireland is its final destination.

"The scheme will be open only to businesses established in Northern Ireland, or businesses who meet certain closely linked criteria," the UK government said.

- Value-added tax -

EU value-added tax (VAT) law will continue to apply in Northern Ireland.

The British government has said it will apply "on goods moving to, from and within Northern Ireland".

However, the province will remain part of the UK's VAT system, which firms will use to reclaim tax on trade with EU companies.

- NI-EU trade -

While Northern Ireland will remain a part of the United Kingdom, it will be able to continue unfettered trade with the Republic of Ireland and other EU member states from January 1.

This will remain true whether or not Britain and the EU seal a wider deal on their future trading relationship.

Some have suggested it may give business in the province an edge over mainland British counterparts.

Northern Ireland will be subject to unique arrangements on tax, borders and trade when the Brexit transition period ends on December 31. London and Brussels agreed on the plan -- separate to the talks on a post-Brexit trade deal -- to prevent a hard border between the province and EU member Ireland.

Northern Ireland will be subject to unique arrangements on tax, borders and trade when the Brexit transition period ends on December 31. London and Brussels agreed on the plan -- separate to the talks on a post-Brexit trade deal -- to prevent a hard border between the province and EU member Ireland. The frontier became a flashpoint during more than two decades of violence over British rule of Northern Ireland. Here is what will change: - Border rules - Under the special arrangements, Northern Ireland will align with the EU's single market regulations and the customs union. This means from January 1 goods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) will be travelling within the UK while in effect crossing the EU-UK border. A pact between Brussels and London aims to minimise port checks and disruption on goods bound for Northern Ireland as their final destination. But freight scheduled to travel onwards to Ireland or any other EU member will be subject to the same controls as all UK-EU trade, with checks taking place at Northern Irish ports and airports. - Food checks - Under the "Northern Ireland protocol", agricultural foods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain will require new paperwork and checks starting in 2021. London and Brussels recently agreed a "grace period" until April 1 for supermarkets and suppliers to prevent disruption to food stocks, as officials warned port will not be ready to handle the checks. - Tariffs - The deal to minimise disruption on freight bound for Northern Ireland from mainland Britain means most goods will not face tariffs. However, businesses will need to register for a "trusted trader scheme", declaring that Northern Ireland is its final destination. "The scheme will be open only to businesses established in Northern Ireland, or businesses who meet certain closely linked criteria," the UK government said. - Value-added tax - EU value-added tax (VAT) law will continue to apply in Northern Ireland. The British government has said it will apply "on goods moving to, from and within Northern Ireland". However, the province will remain part of the UK's VAT system, which firms will use to reclaim tax on trade with EU companies. - NI-EU trade - While Northern Ireland will remain a part of the United Kingdom, it will be able to continue unfettered trade with the Republic of Ireland and other EU member states from January 1. This will remain true whether or not Britain and the EU seal a wider deal on their future trading relationship. Some have suggested it may give business in the province an edge over mainland British counterparts.

How Northern Ireland changes when Brexit transition ends

The transport secretary acknowledged people's frustrations, as Scotland and Wales asked arrivals from Portugal and parts of Greece to isolate, but England and Northern Ireland held off. Travel firms asked government for more clarity over this.

Travellers confused due to varying quarantine rules across UK

Brexit is a "game-changer" that could trigger a referendum on Irish unification within three years, the leader of the nationalist Sinn Finn party said on Saturday.

"This isn't a one-off event, this is a game-changer," Mary Lou McDonald told the Times newspaper.

"I think we have to prepare and I think London has to prepare" for the possibility of a referendum, adding that five years was a realistic timeframe, but that "it could happen in three years."

Her party, whose central policy is to take Northern Ireland out of British control, is flying high having won the popular vote in last week's general election.

"I am absolutely sure we were elected on a mandate to be in government," she told the Times, as talks to form an executive continued. "This wasn't a protest vote."

The party's journey from political pariah connected to republican terrorism to mainstream confirmed that Ireland was moving towards a reunification vote, she said.

"Irish unity now is discussed across the island in a way that I never recall in my lifetime," she told the British broadsheet.

"If you look northwards, the unionist majority has gone. There has been a generational turning of the wheel."

Britain's departure from the European Union, which was opposed in Northern Ireland, has "accelerated not just the conversation but the immediacy of recognising our collective needs and protecting ourselves," she added.

McDonald claimed the Brexit vote was driven by "the lowest common denominator of English nationalism", and that Ireland should "start making the preparations" for its own referendum.

Sinn Fein's bid to form a new government appeared to stall on Thursday after the leader of the centrist party it has been holding talks with said they had "irreconcilable differences".

With its 37 seats, the left-wing party long tarnished by past associations with nationalist paramilitaries broke the country's stranglehold of two-party politics.

London is already under pressure from Scottish nationalists, who want a new referendum on independence.

Brexit is a "game-changer" that could trigger a referendum on Irish unification within three years, the leader of the nationalist Sinn Finn party said on Saturday.

Brexit is a "game-changer" that could trigger a referendum on Irish unification within three years, the leader of the nationalist Sinn Finn party said on Saturday. "This isn't a one-off event, this is a game-changer," Mary Lou McDonald told the Times newspaper. "I think we have to prepare and I think London has to prepare" for the possibility of a referendum, adding that five years was a realistic timeframe, but that "it could happen in three years." Her party, whose central policy is to take Northern Ireland out of British control, is flying high having won the popular vote in last week's general election. "I am absolutely sure we were elected on a mandate to be in government," she told the Times, as talks to form an executive continued. "This wasn't a protest vote." The party's journey from political pariah connected to republican terrorism to mainstream confirmed that Ireland was moving towards a reunification vote, she said. "Irish unity now is discussed across the island in a way that I never recall in my lifetime," she told the British broadsheet. "If you look northwards, the unionist majority has gone. There has been a generational turning of the wheel." Britain's departure from the European Union, which was opposed in Northern Ireland, has "accelerated not just the conversation but the immediacy of recognising our collective needs and protecting ourselves," she added. McDonald claimed the Brexit vote was driven by "the lowest common denominator of English nationalism", and that Ireland should "start making the preparations" for its own referendum. Sinn Fein's bid to form a new government appeared to stall on Thursday after the leader of the centrist party it has been holding talks with said they had "irreconcilable differences". With its 37 seats, the left-wing party long tarnished by past associations with nationalist paramilitaries broke the country's stranglehold of two-party politics. London is already under pressure from Scottish nationalists, who want a new referendum on independence.

Irish republican leader sees unity vote in 3-5 years

Northern Ireland's first same-sex wedding took place February 11 after the government lifted the ban on same-sex marriage, marking the legalisation throughout the United Kingdom.

Northern Ireland welcome gay marriages

Northern Ireland's government will reopen for the first time in three years on Saturday after rival parties rallied around a new power-sharing agreement that can help the volatile province handle the pressures of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-at-mercy-of-politics-in-2020-experts-warn-273582">Brexit</a>.

The region's devolved assembly at Stormont collapsed in January 2017 over a scandal caused by the runaway costs of a renewable energy scheme.

Numerous rounds of increasingly acrimonious negotiations failed to reach a solution and basic services were left unattended.

Pro-Irish republicans and pro-British unionists were pushed into an&nbsp;agreement on Friday by the threat of a new regional election if they missed a looming deadline on Monday.

The UK government in London also promised a large cash infusion into the tiny but strategically vital region if the republican <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-general-election-a-look-at-possible-outcomes-of-the-uk-vote-267764">Sinn Fein</a> and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-britain-heads-to-polls-a-glance-at-last-three-elections-267767">Democratic Unionist Party</a> (DUP) came to terms.

"Sinn Fein has taken the decision to re-enter the power-sharing institution and nominate ministers to the power-sharing executive," party leader Mary Lou McDonald told reporters.

"We're ready to do business," she said.

DUP leader Arlene Foster earlier called the draft power-sharing agreement "fair and balanced".

"We are ready to go back into the assembly," Foster said.

The executive will meet on Saturday afternoon to select new ministers and assign various portfolios

The Belfast Telegraph newspaper reported that the DUP's Foster would be reinstalled as first minister and effective head of the government.

Sources told the paper that top Sinn Fein member Michelle O'Neill&nbsp;would serve as her deputy in a new executive that features several prominent women.

European Commission President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-years-of-arguments-british-mps-set-to-finally-seal-brexit-deal-273199">Ursula von der Leyen</a> hailed the agreement&nbsp;as "an extremely positive development for the people of Northern Ireland". &nbsp;

Friday's deal came with thousands of the region's healthcare workers on strike.

The latest talks were launched in the wake of a December 12 UK general election that saw both the DUP and Sinn Fein lose votes to smaller groups.

Analysts attributed the main parties' losses to voter frustration at their inability to reach a compromise that could let a government in Belfast take care of the region's daily needs.

A 1998 peace accord that ended three decades of violence over British rule of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-scrutinise-brexit-deal-as-january-31-deadline-nears-272604">Northern Ireland</a> in which thousands died requires the two main parties to share power.

The lack of an executive is especially fraught with danger for the region because of historic changes to its trade rules being imposed by Britain's pending withdrawal from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-warns-iran-nuclear-deal-may-collapse-273585">European Union</a>.

Northern Ireland's border with the Republic of Ireland to the south provides the only UK-EU land frontier.

UK Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intelligence-evidence-indicates-boeing-airliner-was-shot-down-by-iranian-surface-to-air-missile-trudeau-273282">Boris Johnson's</a> EU withdrawal agreement puts pressure on local authorities to maintain frictionless trade while preserving an open border on the island of Ireland.

Negotiations to revive Stormont have been stuck on disagreements over the use of the Irish language and a mechanism giving minority governments veto rights.

The draft requires the executive "to provide official recognition of the status of the Irish language in Northern Ireland" and "respect the freedom of all persons to choose, affirm, maintain and develop their national and cultural identity".

It also eliminates the veto mechanism and compels the parties to build consensus on issues of dispute.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-harry-and-meghan-markles-possible-move-might-affect-canadian-taxpayers-273290">UK government</a> additionally promises to deliver a new financial package for the region that allows outstanding public sector salaries to be paid.

Downing Street called the draft deal "a balanced package" and that the precise amount of new funding would be spelt out when the agreement was reached.

"History is being made today," Irish Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-british-take-it-or-leave-it-approach-amounts-to-no-deal-254585">Simon Coveney</a> after both sides confirmed their support for the devolved government.

It can help "show that politics in Northern Ireland can be a force for good and brings people together," he said.

Northern Ireland's government will reopen for the first time in three years on Saturday after rival parties rallied around a new power-sharing agreement that can help the volatile province handle the pressures of Brexit.

Northern Ireland's government will reopen for the first time in three years on Saturday after rival parties rallied around a new power-sharing agreement that can help the volatile province handle the pressures of Brexit. The region's devolved assembly at Stormont collapsed in January 2017 over a scandal caused by the runaway costs of a renewable energy scheme. Numerous rounds of increasingly acrimonious negotiations failed to reach a solution and basic services were left unattended. Pro-Irish republicans and pro-British unionists were pushed into an agreement on Friday by the threat of a new regional election if they missed a looming deadline on Monday. The UK government in London also promised a large cash infusion into the tiny but strategically vital region if the republican Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) came to terms. "Sinn Fein has taken the decision to re-enter the power-sharing institution and nominate ministers to the power-sharing executive," party leader Mary Lou McDonald told reporters. "We're ready to do business," she said. DUP leader Arlene Foster earlier called the draft power-sharing agreement "fair and balanced". "We are ready to go back into the assembly," Foster said. The executive will meet on Saturday afternoon to select new ministers and assign various portfolios The Belfast Telegraph newspaper reported that the DUP's Foster would be reinstalled as first minister and effective head of the government. Sources told the paper that top Sinn Fein member Michelle O'Neill would serve as her deputy in a new executive that features several prominent women. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the agreement as "an extremely positive development for the people of Northern Ireland". Friday's deal came with thousands of the region's healthcare workers on strike. The latest talks were launched in the wake of a December 12 UK general election that saw both the DUP and Sinn Fein lose votes to smaller groups. Analysts attributed the main parties' losses to voter frustration at their inability to reach a compromise that could let a government in Belfast take care of the region's daily needs. A 1998 peace accord that ended three decades of violence over British rule of Northern Ireland in which thousands died requires the two main parties to share power. The lack of an executive is especially fraught with danger for the region because of historic changes to its trade rules being imposed by Britain's pending withdrawal from the European Union. Northern Ireland's border with the Republic of Ireland to the south provides the only UK-EU land frontier. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's EU withdrawal agreement puts pressure on local authorities to maintain frictionless trade while preserving an open border on the island of Ireland. Negotiations to revive Stormont have been stuck on disagreements over the use of the Irish language and a mechanism giving minority governments veto rights. The draft requires the executive "to provide official recognition of the status of the Irish language in Northern Ireland" and "respect the freedom of all persons to choose, affirm, maintain and develop their national and cultural identity". It also eliminates the veto mechanism and compels the parties to build consensus on issues of dispute. The UK government additionally promises to deliver a new financial package for the region that allows outstanding public sector salaries to be paid. Downing Street called the draft deal "a balanced package" and that the precise amount of new funding would be spelt out when the agreement was reached. "History is being made today," Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney after both sides confirmed their support for the devolved government. It can help "show that politics in Northern Ireland can be a force for good and brings people together," he said.

Northern Ireland government returns after three-year suspension

Police in the UK said today that bodies found in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-police-step-up-appeals-over-migrant-lorry-deaths-259320">refrigerated truck</a> last month in Essex were from Vietnam.

The Essex police worked with Vietnamese police officials to verify the identity of &nbsp;39 people discovered at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/easy-money-and-a-better-life-vietnamese-undeterred-by-uk-truck-tragedy-258963">Grays in Essex</a>&nbsp;on October 23. The lorry trailer was travelling from Zeebrugge in Belgium to Grays, Essex.

The victims included eight women and 31 men.

The Vietnamese embassy in London said it was "in deep sorrow, we would like to convey our profound condolences and sympathy to the bereaved families."

The Vietnamese embassy said it would&nbsp;"provide consular protection and support for the bereaved families in order to bring their loved ones home at the earliest time".

The driver of the lorry, a 25-year-old man who was arrested was charged with 39 offences of manslaughter, money laundering, human trafficking and conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration.

The Essex police also worked with National Crime Agency and European law enforcement officials to identify the bodies in the lorry.

The police had earlier urged Ronan Hughes, 40 and his brother Christopher Hughes, 34 from Northern Ireland on suspicion of manslaughter and human trafficking in connection with the deaths of 39 people.

The police later said Eamon Harrison, 23, from Northern Ireland, was accused of manslaughter and human trafficking and immigration offences. &nbsp;Harrison was remanded in custody until November 11.

The investigation is also underway in Vietnam after police said had held eleven people and summoned others for questioning.

Reports said most of the victims were from central Vietnam who travelled abroad illegally to Europe via Russia.

Vietnam said it "strongly condemns human trafficking and considers it a serious crime", while calling upon other countries in the region and around the world to step up cooperation in combating human trafficking.

British officials had earlier claimed that the migrants may have been from China linking it to another case in 2000 in which 8 Chinese were found dead in a tomato truck at the port of Dover, however, today officials confirmed all the migrants were from in fact from Vietnam.

Police in the UK said today that bodies found in a refrigerated truck last month in Essex were from Vietnam. The Essex police worked with Vietnamese police officials to verify the identity of 39 people discovered at Grays in Essex on October 23.

Police in the UK said today that bodies found in a refrigerated truck last month in Essex were from Vietnam. The Essex police worked with Vietnamese police officials to verify the identity of 39 people discovered at Grays in Essex on October 23. The lorry trailer was travelling from Zeebrugge in Belgium to Grays, Essex. The victims included eight women and 31 men. The Vietnamese embassy in London said it was "in deep sorrow, we would like to convey our profound condolences and sympathy to the bereaved families." The Vietnamese embassy said it would "provide consular protection and support for the bereaved families in order to bring their loved ones home at the earliest time". The driver of the lorry, a 25-year-old man who was arrested was charged with 39 offences of manslaughter, money laundering, human trafficking and conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration. The Essex police also worked with National Crime Agency and European law enforcement officials to identify the bodies in the lorry. The police had earlier urged Ronan Hughes, 40 and his brother Christopher Hughes, 34 from Northern Ireland on suspicion of manslaughter and human trafficking in connection with the deaths of 39 people. The police later said Eamon Harrison, 23, from Northern Ireland, was accused of manslaughter and human trafficking and immigration offences. Harrison was remanded in custody until November 11. The investigation is also underway in Vietnam after police said had held eleven people and summoned others for questioning. Reports said most of the victims were from central Vietnam who travelled abroad illegally to Europe via Russia. Vietnam said it "strongly condemns human trafficking and considers it a serious crime", while calling upon other countries in the region and around the world to step up cooperation in combating human trafficking. British officials had earlier claimed that the migrants may have been from China linking it to another case in 2000 in which 8 Chinese were found dead in a tomato truck at the port of Dover, however, today officials confirmed all the migrants were from in fact from Vietnam.

39 bodies found in lorry in Essex were Vietnam nationals: UK Police

A group of Northern Irish lawmakers will return to their parliament on Monday in a last-minute protest at the liberalisation of abortion laws, set to come into force after being decided by London for the suspended Belfast executive.

The regional government in Belfast collapsed in January 2017 after a scandal over a renewable heating scheme split the power-sharing executive, amid a breakdown in trust.

Abortion is currently illegal in the province, except when the mother's life is in danger.

With the Northern Ireland Assembly not sitting, the British government in July passed legislation forcing the province's laws on abortion and same-sex marriage, which is also illegal, into line with those in the rest of the UK, unless the executive returns by Monday.

However, the return of around 30 of the 90 Northern Ireland Assembly members specifically to discuss abortion law is expected to be symbolic.

The majority of those appearing at Stormont will be members of the conservative Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), led by Arlene Foster.

But without cross-party support, a first minister and deputy first minister cannot be elected, the assembly's first task, meaning the law cannot be blocked.

Michelle O'Neill, the left-wing Sinn Fein party's leader in Northern Ireland, described the event as "stunt politics".

"They're going to discuss issues which they can do nothing about.&nbsp; For me, that's all about being dishonest with the public," she said Friday.

"We want to be in the assembly but we need to get the issues resolved that brought the assembly down."

Trevor Lunn, an assembly member for the centrist cross-community Alliance party called the bid to recall the assembly "showboating".

"It appears those wanting to go back on Monday are only doing so to try and deny LGBTQ people and women the rights guaranteed to them in the rest of the UK," he said last week.

Celebrations are due in the province to herald the changes in the law.

Campaign group Love Equality said couples and supporters will gather in Belfast ahead of Monday's midnight deadline.

A mock-wedding event with "a buffet reception, speeches and photo opportunities featuring a wedding cake, flowers and balloons" will take place at lunchtime, the group said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Women's Resource and Development Agency campaign group is also organising a protest at Stormont against the bid to block the new legislation.

Pro-life group Both Lives Matter said 31 assembly members have signed the recall petition allowing parliament to sit on Monday.

Foster told the BBC the move will give deputies the opportunity to express opposition to the law changes.

"Hopefully we will be able to debate the issue on Monday," she said.

A group of Northern Irish lawmakers will return to their parliament on Monday in a last-minute protest at the liberalisation of abortion laws, set to come into force after being decided by London for the suspended Belfast executive.

A group of Northern Irish lawmakers will return to their parliament on Monday in a last-minute protest at the liberalisation of abortion laws, set to come into force after being decided by London for the suspended Belfast executive. The regional government in Belfast collapsed in January 2017 after a scandal over a renewable heating scheme split the power-sharing executive, amid a breakdown in trust. Abortion is currently illegal in the province, except when the mother's life is in danger. With the Northern Ireland Assembly not sitting, the British government in July passed legislation forcing the province's laws on abortion and same-sex marriage, which is also illegal, into line with those in the rest of the UK, unless the executive returns by Monday. However, the return of around 30 of the 90 Northern Ireland Assembly members specifically to discuss abortion law is expected to be symbolic. The majority of those appearing at Stormont will be members of the conservative Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), led by Arlene Foster. But without cross-party support, a first minister and deputy first minister cannot be elected, the assembly's first task, meaning the law cannot be blocked. Michelle O'Neill, the left-wing Sinn Fein party's leader in Northern Ireland, described the event as "stunt politics". "They're going to discuss issues which they can do nothing about. For me, that's all about being dishonest with the public," she said Friday. "We want to be in the assembly but we need to get the issues resolved that brought the assembly down." Trevor Lunn, an assembly member for the centrist cross-community Alliance party called the bid to recall the assembly "showboating". "It appears those wanting to go back on Monday are only doing so to try and deny LGBTQ people and women the rights guaranteed to them in the rest of the UK," he said last week. Celebrations are due in the province to herald the changes in the law. Campaign group Love Equality said couples and supporters will gather in Belfast ahead of Monday's midnight deadline. A mock-wedding event with "a buffet reception, speeches and photo opportunities featuring a wedding cake, flowers and balloons" will take place at lunchtime, the group said in a statement. Meanwhile, the Women's Resource and Development Agency campaign group is also organising a protest at Stormont against the bid to block the new legislation. Pro-life group Both Lives Matter said 31 assembly members have signed the recall petition allowing parliament to sit on Monday. Foster told the BBC the move will give deputies the opportunity to express opposition to the law changes. "Hopefully we will be able to debate the issue on Monday," she said.

Northern Irish lawmakers sit to oppose abortion reform

Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party announced Thursday it cannot support Boris Johnson's current Brexit plan, dealing a major blow to the British prime minister just hours before a crunch EU summit.

"As things stand, we could not support what is being suggested on customs and consent issues, and there is a lack of clarity on VAT (value-added tax)," the DUP, which backs Johnson's government, said in a brief statement on Twitter.

"We will continue to work with the government to try and get a sensible deal that works for Northern Ireland and protects the economic and constitutional integrity of the United Kingdom."

The statement was seen as a major setback for Johnson, who would most likely need the support of his DUP allies in parliament for any deal agreed in Brussels.

It came as British and EU negotiators worked late into the night in the hopes of presenting a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-at-hand-in-brussels-boris-johnson-struggles-to-win-support-at-home-256400"> last-minute Brexit deal</a> to leaders meeting for a European summit.

Both sides said they were close to finding a basis for a treaty to ensure Britain heads for a managed withdrawal from the European bloc it has been part of for nearly half a century.

But officials had to iron out details on how Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK, would remain under the European scheme for sales tax.

The pound fell 0.5 per cent against the dollar and the euro within minutes of the announcement. A pound was worth 1.2759 dollars and 1.1525 euros.

Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick told BBC television: "We always knew these negotiations were going to be difficult and we're going to go down to the line."

Asked whether Johnson would meet the DUP again on Thursday, Jenrick said: "The prime minister and his team are in intensive negotiations with all parties, including with the DUP.

"We want to provide sufficient comfort for the DUP and unionists in Northern Ireland to feel that the arrangements we would put in place with this deal are sufficient to give them comfort to support it."

British politics expert Professor Tim Bale, deputy director of The UK in a Changing Europe think-tank, said the DUP would struggle with any deal that created new divisions between the province and the rest of the UK -- the antithesis of Northern Irish unionism.

"It would be seen by some on their side as representing a surrender," he said.

"They would have to explain what on Earth the last two years have been about if they were to fold."

Johnson's governing Conservatives relied on the DUP's support for a majority in parliament before a series of expulsions from the Conservative ranks last month left the government well short of a majority, even with the DUP's support.

Mairead McGuinness, first vice president of the European Parliament, from Ireland's governing Fine Gael party, told BBC radio: "Whatever optimism we had last night has been dampened a little.

"It would be quite concerning if one political party can delay everything or have a veto over everything. The numbers in the House of Commons are very tight.

"It is of concern that one party is holding this up."

Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party announced Thursday it cannot support Boris Johnson's current Brexit plan, dealing a major blow to the British prime minister just hours before a crunch EU summit.

Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party announced Thursday it cannot support Boris Johnson's current Brexit plan, dealing a major blow to the British prime minister just hours before a crunch EU summit. "As things stand, we could not support what is being suggested on customs and consent issues, and there is a lack of clarity on VAT (value-added tax)," the DUP, which backs Johnson's government, said in a brief statement on Twitter. "We will continue to work with the government to try and get a sensible deal that works for Northern Ireland and protects the economic and constitutional integrity of the United Kingdom." The statement was seen as a major setback for Johnson, who would most likely need the support of his DUP allies in parliament for any deal agreed in Brussels. It came as British and EU negotiators worked late into the night in the hopes of presenting a last-minute Brexit deal to leaders meeting for a European summit. Both sides said they were close to finding a basis for a treaty to ensure Britain heads for a managed withdrawal from the European bloc it has been part of for nearly half a century. But officials had to iron out details on how Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK, would remain under the European scheme for sales tax. The pound fell 0.5 per cent against the dollar and the euro within minutes of the announcement. A pound was worth 1.2759 dollars and 1.1525 euros. Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick told BBC television: "We always knew these negotiations were going to be difficult and we're going to go down to the line." Asked whether Johnson would meet the DUP again on Thursday, Jenrick said: "The prime minister and his team are in intensive negotiations with all parties, including with the DUP. "We want to provide sufficient comfort for the DUP and unionists in Northern Ireland to feel that the arrangements we would put in place with this deal are sufficient to give them comfort to support it." British politics expert Professor Tim Bale, deputy director of The UK in a Changing Europe think-tank, said the DUP would struggle with any deal that created new divisions between the province and the rest of the UK -- the antithesis of Northern Irish unionism. "It would be seen by some on their side as representing a surrender," he said. "They would have to explain what on Earth the last two years have been about if they were to fold." Johnson's governing Conservatives relied on the DUP's support for a majority in parliament before a series of expulsions from the Conservative ranks last month left the government well short of a majority, even with the DUP's support. Mairead McGuinness, first vice president of the European Parliament, from Ireland's governing Fine Gael party, told BBC radio: "Whatever optimism we had last night has been dampened a little. "It would be quite concerning if one political party can delay everything or have a veto over everything. The numbers in the House of Commons are very tight. "It is of concern that one party is holding this up."

Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party oppose United Kingdom government's Brexit plan

Memphis Depay scored twice, and Luuk de Jong was also on target as the Netherlands&nbsp;came back from a goal down with 10 minutes left to&nbsp;beat&nbsp;Northern&nbsp;Ireland&nbsp;3-1 in their Euro 2020 qualifier in Rotterdam on Thursday.

It was a fortunate escape for the home side who fell behind when Josh Magennis gave&nbsp;Northern&nbsp;Ireland&nbsp;the lead in the 75th minute after a stout defensive performance had frustrated the hosts.

Yet the&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;responded with an equaliser from Depay in the 80th minute and then two stoppage-time&nbsp;goals&nbsp;that put them in a three-way tie at the top of Group C.

Netherlands, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-edge-northern-ireland-to-restore-euro-2020-order-248768">Germany and&nbsp;Northern&nbsp;Ireland&nbsp;</a>all have 12 points, although the Irish have played a game more.

Substitute Magennis rose high to head home Stuart Dallas’s cross as the&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;paid the price for sloppy defending.

Daley Blind miscued two attempted clearances and was then&nbsp;beaten by Dallas, whose cross was expertly met by Magennis as he rose above Matthijs de Ligt to score.

Depay toe-poked home the equaliser from a square ball by Donyell Malen that eluded the&nbsp;Northern&nbsp;Irish defence, as the visitors' lead lasted just five minutes.

Then, as the game went into stoppage time, substitute De Jong needed two chances before finishing at the back post before Depay made sure of a vital three points with another goal after being set up by Frenkie de Jong.

“How we reacted was great,” said&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;captain Virgil van Dijk.

“We were patient, we kept looking for&nbsp;goals&nbsp;and we got our reward for our second-half performance where we put on the pressure.

“In the end, it was a deserved win with an outstanding reaction,” he told NOS.

Yet it was a frustrating night for the&nbsp;Dutch, who did not manage an effort on the visitors' goal until just before the half-hour mark when Steven Bergwijn's shot was blocked.

It took 44 minutes before&nbsp;Northern&nbsp;Ireland&nbsp;goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell actually had to make an intervention, easily collecting the ball as Georginio Wijnaldum’s attempted header looped up into the air.

The&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;ratcheted up the pressure in the second half when Donny van de Beek came on, with center-back Jonny Evans clearing his lines in the 71st minute as Wijnaldum looked to steer the ball home from a difficult angle.

Yet then Magennis silenced the home fans before the&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;picked themselves up for a grand finale.

Earlier on Thursday, bottom team Estonia picked up their first point with a goalless draw away in Minsk against Belarus.

The pair are already out of contention in the group with Belarus second from bottom on four points after six games.

Memphis Depay scored twice, and Luuk de Jong was also on target as the Netherlands came back from a goal down with 10 minutes left to beat Northern Ireland 3-1 in their Euro 2020 qualifier in Rotterdam on Thursday.

Memphis Depay scored twice, and Luuk de Jong was also on target as the Netherlands came back from a goal down with 10 minutes left to beat Northern Ireland 3-1 in their Euro 2020 qualifier in Rotterdam on Thursday. It was a fortunate escape for the home side who fell behind when Josh Magennis gave Northern Ireland the lead in the 75th minute after a stout defensive performance had frustrated the hosts. Yet the Dutch responded with an equaliser from Depay in the 80th minute and then two stoppage-time goals that put them in a three-way tie at the top of Group C. Netherlands, Germany and Northern Ireland all have 12 points, although the Irish have played a game more. Substitute Magennis rose high to head home Stuart Dallas’s cross as the Dutch paid the price for sloppy defending. Daley Blind miscued two attempted clearances and was then beaten by Dallas, whose cross was expertly met by Magennis as he rose above Matthijs de Ligt to score. Depay toe-poked home the equaliser from a square ball by Donyell Malen that eluded the Northern Irish defence, as the visitors' lead lasted just five minutes. Then, as the game went into stoppage time, substitute De Jong needed two chances before finishing at the back post before Depay made sure of a vital three points with another goal after being set up by Frenkie de Jong. “How we reacted was great,” said Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk. “We were patient, we kept looking for goals and we got our reward for our second-half performance where we put on the pressure. “In the end, it was a deserved win with an outstanding reaction,” he told NOS. Yet it was a frustrating night for the Dutch, who did not manage an effort on the visitors' goal until just before the half-hour mark when Steven Bergwijn's shot was blocked. It took 44 minutes before Northern Ireland goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell actually had to make an intervention, easily collecting the ball as Georginio Wijnaldum’s attempted header looped up into the air. The Dutch ratcheted up the pressure in the second half when Donny van de Beek came on, with center-back Jonny Evans clearing his lines in the 71st minute as Wijnaldum looked to steer the ball home from a difficult angle. Yet then Magennis silenced the home fans before the Dutch picked themselves up for a grand finale. Earlier on Thursday, bottom team Estonia picked up their first point with a goalless draw away in Minsk against Belarus. The pair are already out of contention in the group with Belarus second from bottom on four points after six games.

Euro 2020 qualifier: Dutch grab late goals to beat Northern Ireland

British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-brexit-talks-with-eu-teeter-on-verge-of-collapse-254597">Boris&nbsp;Johnson</a>&nbsp;is facing a fresh rebellion in his&nbsp;cabinet, with a group of ministers poised to resign due to concerns that he is leading the country towards a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-is-essentially-impossible-ever-downing-street-source-254498"> no-deal&nbsp;Brexit,</a> The Times newspaper&nbsp;reported on Wednesday.

Culture Secretary Nicky Morgan, British Minister for Northern Ireland Julian Smith, Justice Secretary Robert Buckland, Health Minister Matt Hancock, and Attorney General Geoffrey Cox are all on a "resignation watch list", according to The Times&nbsp;report.

An unnamed&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;minister cited by the newspaper said that a "very large number" of Conservative members of parliament will quit if it comes to a no-deal&nbsp;Brexit.

The Times said that ministers had warned&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;in a&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;meeting about the "grave" risk of the return of direct rule in Northern Ireland and raised concerns about Dominic Cummings,&nbsp;Johnson's top adviser.

"Cabinet&nbsp;will set the strategy, not unelected officials. If this is an attempt to do that then it will fail", the&nbsp;report&nbsp;quoted another&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;minister as saying.

While the Times newspaper did not specify how many Conservative lawmakers oppose a no-deal&nbsp;scenario, the Financial Times&nbsp;reported early on Wednesday that at least 50 members of parliament from the party will&nbsp;revolt&nbsp;against a general election manifesto pledging to pursue a no-deal&nbsp;Brexit.

Certain lawmakers from the party are considering running on a softer individual&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;platform or even standing aside altogether as a Tory candidate, the FT&nbsp;report&nbsp;added.

The media&nbsp;reports come as the European Union accused Britain of playing a "stupid blame game"&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;after a Downing Street source told Reuters a&nbsp;deal&nbsp;was essentially impossible because German Chancellor Angela Merkel had made unacceptable demands.

With just&nbsp;over&nbsp;three weeks before the United Kingdom is due to leave the European bloc, the future of&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;remains deeply uncertain as both London and Brussels position themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal&nbsp;Brexit.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing a fresh rebellion in his cabinet, with a group of ministers poised to resign due to concerns that he is leading the country towards a no-deal Brexit, The Times newspaper reported on Wednesday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing a fresh rebellion in his cabinet, with a group of ministers poised to resign due to concerns that he is leading the country towards a no-deal Brexit, The Times newspaper reported on Wednesday. Culture Secretary Nicky Morgan, British Minister for Northern Ireland Julian Smith, Justice Secretary Robert Buckland, Health Minister Matt Hancock, and Attorney General Geoffrey Cox are all on a "resignation watch list", according to The Times report. An unnamed cabinet minister cited by the newspaper said that a "very large number" of Conservative members of parliament will quit if it comes to a no-deal Brexit. The Times said that ministers had warned Johnson in a cabinet meeting about the "grave" risk of the return of direct rule in Northern Ireland and raised concerns about Dominic Cummings, Johnson's top adviser. "Cabinet will set the strategy, not unelected officials. If this is an attempt to do that then it will fail", the report quoted another cabinet minister as saying. While the Times newspaper did not specify how many Conservative lawmakers oppose a no-deal scenario, the Financial Times reported early on Wednesday that at least 50 members of parliament from the party will revolt against a general election manifesto pledging to pursue a no-deal Brexit. Certain lawmakers from the party are considering running on a softer individual Brexit platform or even standing aside altogether as a Tory candidate, the FT report added. The media reports come as the European Union accused Britain of playing a "stupid blame game" over Brexit after a Downing Street source told Reuters a deal was essentially impossible because German Chancellor Angela Merkel had made unacceptable demands. With just over three weeks before the United Kingdom is due to leave the European bloc, the future of Brexit remains deeply uncertain as both London and Brussels position themselves to avoid blame for a delay or a disorderly no-deal Brexit.

UK PM Boris Johnson faces cabinet revolt over no-deal Brexit: Report

Britain is open to some flexibility on the proposed mechanism that would allow lawmakers in post-Brexit Northern Ireland to decide whether the British province remains in regulatory alignment with the European Union, its Brexit minister said.

The mechanism, set out in London's latest Brexit proposals, aims to resolve the biggest sticking point in negotiations: the currently seamless border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.

"The key issue is the principle of consent, that's why the backstop was rejected three times, that was the concern in terms of both sides in Northern Ireland not approving of the backstop," Stephen Barclay told the BBC's Andrew Marr on Sunday.

"So the key is the principle of consent, now of course in the mechanism, as part of the intensive negotiations we could look at that and discuss that."

The 500-km (300-mile) border will be the United Kingdom's only land frontier with the bloc after it leaves.

The problem is how to prevent Northern Ireland becoming a "back door" into the EU's single market and customs union without erecting border controls that could undermine the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of political and sectarian violence in Northern Ireland in which more than 3,600 people were killed.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he cannot accept the so-called backstop arrangement included in the Withdrawal Agreement negotiated with the EU by his predecessor Theresa May, which British lawmakers rejected three times.

He made what he called a final Brexit offer to the European Union on Wednesday that centres on replacing the backstop with a proposal for an all-island regulatory zone to cover all goods.

The proposal also says the legislative assembly in Northern Ireland -- which has been suspended since 2017 -- would have the right to decide every four years whether it wants to continue to abide by EU rules on traded goods.

The European Union and Ireland, however, said the proposals were unlikely to result in a deal without more concessions.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said he did not fully understand how the British proposals might work and that Dublin could not sign up to a treaty that did not safeguard an open Irish-British border.

His deputy, Simon Coveney, said giving the Northern Ireland Assembly a vote on single market alignment would in effect give a veto to any one party.

He also raised concerns about the proposed customs arrangements that would require checks and controls even if, as proposed, they do not take place at or near the border.

Barclay said Britain was willing to discuss the detail of customs proposals, adding: "We have set out a broad landing zone, in the detail of the negotiations, of course we can get into the details of how operationally they work, what legal certainty is required."

No dither

Writing in the Sun on Sunday newspaper, Johnson said the proposals were a "practical compromise that gives ground where necessary while still protecting the UK's interests and the Brexit this country voted for".

He said lawmakers from every wing of his Conservative Party, from his allies in Northern Ireland's DUP and even from the opposition Labour Party had said they could get behind the deal.

"And I salute the spirit of compromise from MPs on all sides who have looked at what's on the table, reflected on what's best for their constituents, and decided they are willing to put aside their personal beliefs and back the deal that they know will get Brexit done," he said.

With the Oct. 31 deadline approaching, Johnson has consistently said he will not ask for another delay to Brexit, but also that he will not break a law that forces him to request one if no withdrawal deal has been agreed by Oct. 19. He has not explained the apparent contradiction in his comments.

Johnson discussed his proposals with French President Emmanuel Macron and Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa on Sunday.

He urged Macron to "push forward" to secure a deal and said the EU should not be lured into the mistaken belief that the UK would stay in the EU after Oct.31, Number 10 said.

Macron told Johnson that talks should continue swiftly with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier's team in the coming days, in order to evaluate at the end of the week whether a deal is possible that respects European Union principles, according to an Elysee official.

Johnson said in the Sun on Sunday that Britain could do a deal if the EU was willing.

"But they should be under no illusions or misapprehensions," he said. "There will be no more dither or delay. On Oct. 31 we are going to get Brexit done."

A senior source in Johnson's office said on Sunday there was a chance to get a deal done: a deal that is backed by lawmakers and a deal which involves compromise on all sides.

"The UK has made a big, important offer but it's time for the Commission to show a willingness to compromise too," the source said. "If not the UK will leave with no deal."

The government acknowledged for the first time on Friday that Johnson will send a letter to the EU asking for a Brexit delay if no divorce deal has been reached.

Britain is open to some flexibility on the proposed mechanism that would allow lawmakers in post-Brexit Northern Ireland to decide whether the British province remains in regulatory alignment with the European Union, its Brexit minister said.

Britain is open to some flexibility on the proposed mechanism that would allow lawmakers in post-Brexit Northern Ireland to decide whether the British province remains in regulatory alignment with the European Union, its Brexit minister said. The mechanism, set out in London's latest Brexit proposals, aims to resolve the biggest sticking point in negotiations: the currently seamless border between Northern Ireland and Ireland. "The key issue is the principle of consent, that's why the backstop was rejected three times, that was the concern in terms of both sides in Northern Ireland not approving of the backstop," Stephen Barclay told the BBC's Andrew Marr on Sunday. "So the key is the principle of consent, now of course in the mechanism, as part of the intensive negotiations we could look at that and discuss that." The 500-km (300-mile) border will be the United Kingdom's only land frontier with the bloc after it leaves. The problem is how to prevent Northern Ireland becoming a "back door" into the EU's single market and customs union without erecting border controls that could undermine the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of political and sectarian violence in Northern Ireland in which more than 3,600 people were killed. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he cannot accept the so-called backstop arrangement included in the Withdrawal Agreement negotiated with the EU by his predecessor Theresa May, which British lawmakers rejected three times. He made what he called a final Brexit offer to the European Union on Wednesday that centres on replacing the backstop with a proposal for an all-island regulatory zone to cover all goods. The proposal also says the legislative assembly in Northern Ireland -- which has been suspended since 2017 -- would have the right to decide every four years whether it wants to continue to abide by EU rules on traded goods. The European Union and Ireland, however, said the proposals were unlikely to result in a deal without more concessions. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said he did not fully understand how the British proposals might work and that Dublin could not sign up to a treaty that did not safeguard an open Irish-British border. His deputy, Simon Coveney, said giving the Northern Ireland Assembly a vote on single market alignment would in effect give a veto to any one party. He also raised concerns about the proposed customs arrangements that would require checks and controls even if, as proposed, they do not take place at or near the border. Barclay said Britain was willing to discuss the detail of customs proposals, adding: "We have set out a broad landing zone, in the detail of the negotiations, of course we can get into the details of how operationally they work, what legal certainty is required." No dither Writing in the Sun on Sunday newspaper, Johnson said the proposals were a "practical compromise that gives ground where necessary while still protecting the UK's interests and the Brexit this country voted for". He said lawmakers from every wing of his Conservative Party, from his allies in Northern Ireland's DUP and even from the opposition Labour Party had said they could get behind the deal. "And I salute the spirit of compromise from MPs on all sides who have looked at what's on the table, reflected on what's best for their constituents, and decided they are willing to put aside their personal beliefs and back the deal that they know will get Brexit done," he said. With the Oct. 31 deadline approaching, Johnson has consistently said he will not ask for another delay to Brexit, but also that he will not break a law that forces him to request one if no withdrawal deal has been agreed by Oct. 19. He has not explained the apparent contradiction in his comments. Johnson discussed his proposals with French President Emmanuel Macron and Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa on Sunday. He urged Macron to "push forward" to secure a deal and said the EU should not be lured into the mistaken belief that the UK would stay in the EU after Oct.31, Number 10 said. Macron told Johnson that talks should continue swiftly with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier's team in the coming days, in order to evaluate at the end of the week whether a deal is possible that respects European Union principles, according to an Elysee official. Johnson said in the Sun on Sunday that Britain could do a deal if the EU was willing. "But they should be under no illusions or misapprehensions," he said. "There will be no more dither or delay. On Oct. 31 we are going to get Brexit done." A senior source in Johnson's office said on Sunday there was a chance to get a deal done: a deal that is backed by lawmakers and a deal which involves compromise on all sides. "The UK has made a big, important offer but it's time for the Commission to show a willingness to compromise too," the source said. "If not the UK will leave with no deal." The government acknowledged for the first time on Friday that Johnson will send a letter to the EU asking for a Brexit delay if no divorce deal has been reached.

UK could be flexible on details of Northern Ireland veto, customs plan, says Brexit minister

Why the UK's Brexit proposal falls short for the European Union

The police in Northern Ireland will not staff border security after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-not-eu-needs-to-do-more-work-on-brexit-offer-brussels-253520">Brexit</a>, the Police Service of Northern Ireland's chief constable said on Thursday.

"We will, of course, police the border as normal. But if the underpinning assumption is that you will see armed officers effectively staffing checkpoints in various parts of the border area, no," Simon Byrne said in comments reported by the Irish Times

"You're not going to see lines of Land Rovers waving vehicles over with PSNI people checking documents, goods, the back of white vans and so on."

The chief constable told a public meeting of the Northern Ireland Policing Board that he will ask the British government for 300 additional officers to bring the force's strength to 7,500, at a cost of 40 million pounds ($49.31 million).

The extra officers are in addition to 200 officers who are expected to be in place by March. A further 200 are to be redeployed from other duties to Brexit-related operations.

Byrne also told the board members that he was clear with the Northern Ireland Office that it will not be up to the Police Service of Northern Ireland to staff any border security.

"We are clearly there to facilitate normality and day-to-day policing, but not to carry out customs checks and the function of other agencies in whatever proposal is or isn't agreed in the next few weeks," he said.

Britain is due to leave the EU at the end of October, but the two sides have not been able to agree to the terms of their divorce. The biggest obstacle remains disagreement over how to keep open the border between Ireland, a member of the EU, and Northern Ireland, part of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-economy-flirting-with-recession-after-services-shrink-unexpectedly-253502">UK</a>, after Brexit.

The police in Northern Ireland will not staff border security after Brexit, the Police Service of Northern Ireland's chief constable said on Thursday. "We will, of course, police the border as normal.

The police in Northern Ireland will not staff border security after Brexit, the Police Service of Northern Ireland's chief constable said on Thursday. "We will, of course, police the border as normal. But if the underpinning assumption is that you will see armed officers effectively staffing checkpoints in various parts of the border area, no," Simon Byrne said in comments reported by the Irish Times "You're not going to see lines of Land Rovers waving vehicles over with PSNI people checking documents, goods, the back of white vans and so on." The chief constable told a public meeting of the Northern Ireland Policing Board that he will ask the British government for 300 additional officers to bring the force's strength to 7,500, at a cost of 40 million pounds ($49.31 million). The extra officers are in addition to 200 officers who are expected to be in place by March. A further 200 are to be redeployed from other duties to Brexit-related operations. Byrne also told the board members that he was clear with the Northern Ireland Office that it will not be up to the Police Service of Northern Ireland to staff any border security. "We are clearly there to facilitate normality and day-to-day policing, but not to carry out customs checks and the function of other agencies in whatever proposal is or isn't agreed in the next few weeks," he said. Britain is due to leave the EU at the end of October, but the two sides have not been able to agree to the terms of their divorce. The biggest obstacle remains disagreement over how to keep open the border between Ireland, a member of the EU, and Northern Ireland, part of the UK, after Brexit.

Northern Ireland police will not staff border checkpoints: Chief

Irish nationalist youths threw dozens of petrol bombs at police as officers defused an explosive device near homes in the Northern Ireland city of Londonderry late on Monday, September 9.

Ireland: Irish youths throw petrol bombs at police

Germany beat hosts Northern Ireland 2-0 on Monday with two goals in the second half to get their Euro 2020 qualification on track as they bounced back from last week's loss to the Netherlands to take over top spot in Group C.

Defender Marcel Halstenberg drilled the ball in three minutes after the restart following a lacklustre first half by the Germans, who lost 4-2 at home to the Dutch on Friday.

Serge Gnabry continued his impressive scoring run for Germany, netting in second-half stoppage time for his ninth goal in his 10th international, completing Germany's eighth consecutive win over Northern Ireland.

The win put Germany on 12 points from five games, ahead on goal difference of second-placed Northern Ireland, who suffered their first loss of the campaign as captain Steven Davis became their most capped outfield player with 113 appearances.

The third-placed Netherlands, 4-0 winners away to Estonia on Monday, are on nine points from four matches.

"We were under pressure to win after Friday's result and we had to overcome some obstacles in the first half," Germany coach Joachim Loew told reporters. "The Northern Irish attacked early and disrupted our game. After the break we did it better."

The Germans, missing half a dozen injured players, seemed to lack a clear game plan in the first half with plenty of passing but struggling to find ways to open up the Irish defence.

Loew's young team, looking to recover from last year's shock first-round World Cup exit and Nations League relegation, have not had enough match practice and it showed.

"We had never played before with this line-up," Loew said. "So we will need some patience because this a learning process."

Conor Washington had a golden chance to put the hosts ahead in the seventh minute when he pounced on a rare Toni Kroos mistake but fired straight at charging goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Timo Werner had the visitors' best chance before the break but his close-range effort was saved by Bailey Peacock-Farrell.

Germany looked to be feeling the effects of Friday's loss with the Irish working hard to stifle their attacks early.

"We managed to stop them building the game and got joy off pressing and winning the ball higher up the pitch," the hosts' coach Michael O'Neill told Sky.

"It's very difficult to do that against this level of opposition. I'm proud of what they gave."

Halstenberg eventually settled German nerves, timing his half-volley to perfection as he angled Julian Brandt's cross into the far corner just after the break.

They should have scored again in a scintillating start to the second half but instead had to wait until deep into stoppage for Gnabry to make sure of the three points.

Germany beat hosts Northern Ireland 2-0 on Monday with two goals in the second half to get their Euro 2020 qualification on track as they bounced back from last week's loss to the Netherlands to take over top spot in Group C.

Germany beat hosts Northern Ireland 2-0 on Monday with two goals in the second half to get their Euro 2020 qualification on track as they bounced back from last week's loss to the Netherlands to take over top spot in Group C. Defender Marcel Halstenberg drilled the ball in three minutes after the restart following a lacklustre first half by the Germans, who lost 4-2 at home to the Dutch on Friday. Serge Gnabry continued his impressive scoring run for Germany, netting in second-half stoppage time for his ninth goal in his 10th international, completing Germany's eighth consecutive win over Northern Ireland. The win put Germany on 12 points from five games, ahead on goal difference of second-placed Northern Ireland, who suffered their first loss of the campaign as captain Steven Davis became their most capped outfield player with 113 appearances. The third-placed Netherlands, 4-0 winners away to Estonia on Monday, are on nine points from four matches. "We were under pressure to win after Friday's result and we had to overcome some obstacles in the first half," Germany coach Joachim Loew told reporters. "The Northern Irish attacked early and disrupted our game. After the break we did it better." The Germans, missing half a dozen injured players, seemed to lack a clear game plan in the first half with plenty of passing but struggling to find ways to open up the Irish defence. Loew's young team, looking to recover from last year's shock first-round World Cup exit and Nations League relegation, have not had enough match practice and it showed. "We had never played before with this line-up," Loew said. "So we will need some patience because this a learning process." Conor Washington had a golden chance to put the hosts ahead in the seventh minute when he pounced on a rare Toni Kroos mistake but fired straight at charging goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Timo Werner had the visitors' best chance before the break but his close-range effort was saved by Bailey Peacock-Farrell. Germany looked to be feeling the effects of Friday's loss with the Irish working hard to stifle their attacks early. "We managed to stop them building the game and got joy off pressing and winning the ball higher up the pitch," the hosts' coach Michael O'Neill told Sky. "It's very difficult to do that against this level of opposition. I'm proud of what they gave." Halstenberg eventually settled German nerves, timing his half-volley to perfection as he angled Julian Brandt's cross into the far corner just after the break. They should have scored again in a scintillating start to the second half but instead had to wait until deep into stoppage for Gnabry to make sure of the three points.

Germany edge Northern Ireland to restore Euro 2020 order

A legal challenge seeking to place an interim block on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/remain-alliance-can-it-halt-brexit-and-beat-boris-johnson-240152">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a>'s order to suspend parliament will be heard in a Northern Irish court next week, a judge said on Friday.

Johnson's decision this week to suspend parliament for more than a month before Brexit has enraged opponents who have taken to the courts in Edinburgh, Belfast, and London to try to stop him.

At a hearing in Belfast's High Court, Lord Chief Justice Sir Declan Morgan set September 6 for the presentation of legal argument on the interim injunction that is being sought by a rights activist seeking to have the suspension reversed.

A more substantive case launched by the same activist, Raymond McCord, is due on September 16 against any withdrawal from the European Union without a divorce deal, citing fears that a chaotic Brexit could wreck the Northern Ireland peace process.

McCord's legal team argued on Thursday that a no-deal Brexit would breach the 1998 Good Friday Agreement that brought peace to the British-run province and the suspension was both unconstitutional and a threat to the two decades of peace since.

His solicitor, Ciaran O'Hare, also said they would push to have the suspension hearing earlier than September 6.

"The prime minister wants to get his own way without concern for the people of Northern Ireland and the peace process," McCord, who was also behind a 2016 Northern Ireland challenge to Brexit, told reporters.

McCord's son was murdered by pro-British loyalist militants in 1997 before the peace deal largely ended three decades of violence between Irish nationalists seeking a united Ireland and pro-British unionists that killed 3,600 people.

Police on both sides of the border between Northern Ireland and EU-member Ireland fear the return of any customs posts after Brexit would create a target for the small number of militant groups still active in the province.

A Scottish court earlier on Friday rejected a request to place an interim block on the order to suspend parliament but said it would hear full arguments next week.

Former British Prime Minister John Major also applied on Friday to join legal action to try to block the suspension in a case that will be heard in London on September 5.

A legal challenge seeking to place an interim block on British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's order to suspend parliament will be heard in a Northern Irish court next week, a judge said on Friday.

A legal challenge seeking to place an interim block on British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's order to suspend parliament will be heard in a Northern Irish court next week, a judge said on Friday. Johnson's decision this week to suspend parliament for more than a month before Brexit has enraged opponents who have taken to the courts in Edinburgh, Belfast, and London to try to stop him. At a hearing in Belfast's High Court, Lord Chief Justice Sir Declan Morgan set September 6 for the presentation of legal argument on the interim injunction that is being sought by a rights activist seeking to have the suspension reversed. A more substantive case launched by the same activist, Raymond McCord, is due on September 16 against any withdrawal from the European Union without a divorce deal, citing fears that a chaotic Brexit could wreck the Northern Ireland peace process. McCord's legal team argued on Thursday that a no-deal Brexit would breach the 1998 Good Friday Agreement that brought peace to the British-run province and the suspension was both unconstitutional and a threat to the two decades of peace since. His solicitor, Ciaran O'Hare, also said they would push to have the suspension hearing earlier than September 6. "The prime minister wants to get his own way without concern for the people of Northern Ireland and the peace process," McCord, who was also behind a 2016 Northern Ireland challenge to Brexit, told reporters. McCord's son was murdered by pro-British loyalist militants in 1997 before the peace deal largely ended three decades of violence between Irish nationalists seeking a united Ireland and pro-British unionists that killed 3,600 people. Police on both sides of the border between Northern Ireland and EU-member Ireland fear the return of any customs posts after Brexit would create a target for the small number of militant groups still active in the province. A Scottish court earlier on Friday rejected a request to place an interim block on the order to suspend parliament but said it would hear full arguments next week. Former British Prime Minister John Major also applied on Friday to join legal action to try to block the suspension in a case that will be heard in London on September 5.

Brexit: Northern Irish court sets September 6 for challenge to parliament suspension

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The two candidates vying to become Britain's next prime minister both said Friday they believe the EU will agree to a Brexit deal this year without the controversial "backstop" provision for the Irish border.

Ex-London mayor Boris Johnson, the favourite over foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt to replace outgoing premier Theresa May, predicted the European Union would instead negotiate the issue during post-Brexit free trade talks.

"We will get a deal by October 31st," Johnson told the BBC during highly-anticipated separate interviews with the leadership rivals, referring to the latest delayed deadline for Britain's departure from the bloc.

"They (the EU) need to take... the Irish backstop and they need basically to remit it, to remove it, to delete it," he added.

Johnson said it was "manifestly in the interests of both sides" to reach a new deal, noting "the EU has a very substantial net balance of trade with us".

"They will want to continue to see those goods flowing," he added.

European leaders have consistently insisted however that the backstop must remain in any withdrawal agreement.

It would keep open the post-Brexit border between British-ruled Northern Ireland and EU member the Republic of Ireland whatever the outcome of negotiations over the future relationship between London and Brussels.

But vehement opposition to the proposal from ardent pro-Brexit Tory MPs led them to repeatedly reject the divorce deal struck by May and European leaders, forcing her to step aside.

Conservative members are this month in the process of selecting a new party leader -- who will almost certainly become prime minister -- with the winner to be announced on July 23.

Johnson's rival Hunt reiterated in his half-hour BBC interview that he had received encouragement from European leaders that they would be willing to abandon the backstop to strike a new deal -- claims Berlin has previously pushed back on.

"Chancellor Merkel had said to me that if a new British prime minister came forward with a different plan for the Northern Irish border, of course, they would look at the package," he said.

However, Hunt refused to commit to Britain's departure from the EU by the end of the year, saying only that he "expects" the country will have left by then.

"Prime ministers should only make promises they know they can deliver," he added.

Meanwhile, outgoing leader May admitted in her own interview Friday that she had underestimated the "entrenched positions" in Parliament over Brexit.

She told the BBC she would leave Downing Street after three years in power with a mixture of pride and disappointment.

"I've always done what I believe to be in the national interest," May said.

The two candidates vying to become Britain's next prime minister both said Friday they believe the EU will agree to a Brexit deal this year without the controversial "backstop" provision for the Irish border.

The two candidates vying to become Britain's next prime minister both said Friday they believe the EU will agree to a Brexit deal this year without the controversial "backstop" provision for the Irish border. Ex-London mayor Boris Johnson, the favourite over foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt to replace outgoing premier Theresa May, predicted the European Union would instead negotiate the issue during post-Brexit free trade talks. "We will get a deal by October 31st," Johnson told the BBC during highly-anticipated separate interviews with the leadership rivals, referring to the latest delayed deadline for Britain's departure from the bloc. "They (the EU) need to take... the Irish backstop and they need basically to remit it, to remove it, to delete it," he added. Johnson said it was "manifestly in the interests of both sides" to reach a new deal, noting "the EU has a very substantial net balance of trade with us". "They will want to continue to see those goods flowing," he added. European leaders have consistently insisted however that the backstop must remain in any withdrawal agreement. It would keep open the post-Brexit border between British-ruled Northern Ireland and EU member the Republic of Ireland whatever the outcome of negotiations over the future relationship between London and Brussels. But vehement opposition to the proposal from ardent pro-Brexit Tory MPs led them to repeatedly reject the divorce deal struck by May and European leaders, forcing her to step aside. Conservative members are this month in the process of selecting a new party leader -- who will almost certainly become prime minister -- with the winner to be announced on July 23. Johnson's rival Hunt reiterated in his half-hour BBC interview that he had received encouragement from European leaders that they would be willing to abandon the backstop to strike a new deal -- claims Berlin has previously pushed back on. "Chancellor Merkel had said to me that if a new British prime minister came forward with a different plan for the Northern Irish border, of course, they would look at the package," he said. However, Hunt refused to commit to Britain's departure from the EU by the end of the year, saying only that he "expects" the country will have left by then. "Prime ministers should only make promises they know they can deliver," he added. Meanwhile, outgoing leader May admitted in her own interview Friday that she had underestimated the "entrenched positions" in Parliament over Brexit. She told the BBC she would leave Downing Street after three years in power with a mixture of pride and disappointment. "I've always done what I believe to be in the national interest," May said.

UK PM contenders say European Union will drop Irish backstop for Brexit deal

UK's parliament voted on July 6 in favour of a plan that would compel the government to legalise same-sex marriage and extend abortion rights in Northern Ireland, if the province is unable to re-establish its own devolved government. Watch this video to know more.

Northern Ireland: UK lawmakers approve bid to legalise same sex marriage

Seeking to regain momentum in his bid to become the next prime minister of Britain, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-boris-johnson-under-pressure-to-explain-domestic-row-229723">Boris Johnson</a> said on Monday he was seriously prepared to take the country out of the European Union in October even if a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-promotes-hard-brexit-must-clarify-his-position-on-europe-macron-230076">deal with the bloc had not been reached</a>.

The former London mayor is still the frontrunner in the race to succeed Theresa May but his lead had been dented by reports of a heated late-night row with his girlfriend that led to the police being called to their home.

His rival, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, on Monday, described Johnson as a "coward" for avoiding public head-to-head debates with him.

Johnson declined to comment on the argument in an interview with BBC News. He instead doubled down on his promise to deliver Brexit in October without a deal if necessary - a prospect that has sent sterling down sharply against other currencies.

"My pledge is to come out of the EU at Halloween on 31 October," Johnson said.

"And the way to get our friends and partners to understand how serious we are is finally, I'm afraid, to abandon the defeatism and negativity that has enfolded us in a great cloud for so long and to prepare confidently and seriously for... a no-deal outcome."

Johnson said he did not want a no-deal Brexit, but that it was necessary to put it on the table so that Britain could get the result it wanted.

He again raised doubts over the payment of a previously-agreed 39 billion pound ($49 billion) divorce deal with the EU, something likely to antagonise negotiators in Brussels.

Watch: Boris Johnson's 'girlfriend trouble'

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"I think there should be creative ambiguity about when and how that gets paid over," Johnson said.

On resolving an impasse around the Irish border, Johnson said he thought changing or abandoning the backstop - a guarantee to ensure no return of extensive border checks between EU-member Ireland and British-run Northern Ireland - could be a way forward.

"Let me tell you, there are abundant, abundant technical fixes that can be introduced to make sure that you don't have to have checks at the border," Johnson said.

Trade experts have expressed scepticism that technology can solve the border problem, at least in the near term.

Last week, Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney said the contenders to become Britain's prime minister had offered solutions "simply not based on reality".

Seeking to regain momentum in his bid to become the next prime minister of Britain, Boris Johnson said on Monday he was seriously prepared to take the country out of the European Union in October even if a deal with the bloc had not been reached.

Seeking to regain momentum in his bid to become the next prime minister of Britain, Boris Johnson said on Monday he was seriously prepared to take the country out of the European Union in October even if a deal with the bloc had not been reached. The former London mayor is still the frontrunner in the race to succeed Theresa May but his lead had been dented by reports of a heated late-night row with his girlfriend that led to the police being called to their home. His rival, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, on Monday, described Johnson as a "coward" for avoiding public head-to-head debates with him. Johnson declined to comment on the argument in an interview with BBC News. He instead doubled down on his promise to deliver Brexit in October without a deal if necessary - a prospect that has sent sterling down sharply against other currencies. "My pledge is to come out of the EU at Halloween on 31 October," Johnson said. "And the way to get our friends and partners to understand how serious we are is finally, I'm afraid, to abandon the defeatism and negativity that has enfolded us in a great cloud for so long and to prepare confidently and seriously for... a no-deal outcome." Johnson said he did not want a no-deal Brexit, but that it was necessary to put it on the table so that Britain could get the result it wanted. He again raised doubts over the payment of a previously-agreed 39 billion pound ($49 billion) divorce deal with the EU, something likely to antagonise negotiators in Brussels. Watch: Boris Johnson's 'girlfriend trouble' × "I think there should be creative ambiguity about when and how that gets paid over," Johnson said. On resolving an impasse around the Irish border, Johnson said he thought changing or abandoning the backstop - a guarantee to ensure no return of extensive border checks between EU-member Ireland and British-run Northern Ireland - could be a way forward. "Let me tell you, there are abundant, abundant technical fixes that can be introduced to make sure that you don't have to have checks at the border," Johnson said. Trade experts have expressed scepticism that technology can solve the border problem, at least in the near term. Last week, Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney said the contenders to become Britain's prime minister had offered solutions "simply not based on reality".

Boris Johnson says he is serious about 'no-deal' Brexit threat

Dissident republican group the New IRA on Tuesday admitted responsibility for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/journalist-shot-dead-in-northern-ireland-in-terrorist-incident-211785">killing Northern Irish journalist Lyra McKeen</a> during rioting in Londonderry last week, in a statement to The Irish News.

The New IRA "offer our full and sincere apologies to the partner, family and friends of Lyra McKee for her death", it said in a statement reported by the Irish newspaper, which said the paramilitary group used a recognised codeword.

McKee, 29, was shot in the head late Thursday as dissident republicans clashed with police in the Creggan housing estate in Northern Ireland's second city, also known as Derry.

While admitting responsibility, the New IRA attempted to justify its actions by claiming she was killed during an attack on "enemy forces" and accused police of provoking the riot which preceded her death.

"In the course of attacking the enemy Lyra McKee was tragically killed while standing beside enemy forces," the statement said.

"On Thursday night, following an incursion on the Creggan by heavily armed British crown forces which provoked rioting, the IRA deployed our volunteers to engage," the New IRA statement said, according to The Irish News.

In the wake of her death, Northern Ireland's six main political parties -- including rival unionists and republicans who have been unable to form a devolved government for more than two years -- issued a rare joint statement.

"It was a pointless and futile act to destroy the progress made over the last 20 years, which has the overwhelming support of people everywhere," it read.

The killing, the latest upsurge in violence to shake the troubled region, came in the run-up to Easter weekend, when republicans opposed to the British presence in Northern Ireland mark the anniversary of a 1916 uprising against British rule.

A car-bombing and the hijacking of two vans in Londonderry earlier this year were also blamed on a dissident paramilitary group.

The 1998 Good Friday peace deal largely brought an end to three decades of sectarian bloodshed between republican and unionist paramilitaries, as well as British armed forces, in a period known as "the Troubles".

Some 3,500 people were killed in the conflict -- many at the hands of the Irish Republican Army (IRA).

The group called a final ceasefire in 1997 and announced an end to its armed campaign in 2005, stating that it would seek to achieve its aims through peaceful political means.

The New IRA is one of a number of dissident republican paramilitary groups opposed to the shift towards non-violent tactics to bring about a united Ireland.

There have been concerns that paramilitaries could be seeking to exploit the current political turbulence over Northern Ireland and its border with the Republic of Ireland caused by Brexit.

Dissident republican group the New IRA on Tuesday admitted responsibility for killing Northern Irish journalist Lyra McKeen during rioting in Londonderry last week, in a statement to The Irish News.

Dissident republican group the New IRA on Tuesday admitted responsibility for killing Northern Irish journalist Lyra McKeen during rioting in Londonderry last week, in a statement to The Irish News. The New IRA "offer our full and sincere apologies to the partner, family and friends of Lyra McKee for her death", it said in a statement reported by the Irish newspaper, which said the paramilitary group used a recognised codeword. McKee, 29, was shot in the head late Thursday as dissident republicans clashed with police in the Creggan housing estate in Northern Ireland's second city, also known as Derry. While admitting responsibility, the New IRA attempted to justify its actions by claiming she was killed during an attack on "enemy forces" and accused police of provoking the riot which preceded her death. "In the course of attacking the enemy Lyra McKee was tragically killed while standing beside enemy forces," the statement said. "On Thursday night, following an incursion on the Creggan by heavily armed British crown forces which provoked rioting, the IRA deployed our volunteers to engage," the New IRA statement said, according to The Irish News. In the wake of her death, Northern Ireland's six main political parties -- including rival unionists and republicans who have been unable to form a devolved government for more than two years -- issued a rare joint statement. "It was a pointless and futile act to destroy the progress made over the last 20 years, which has the overwhelming support of people everywhere," it read. The killing, the latest upsurge in violence to shake the troubled region, came in the run-up to Easter weekend, when republicans opposed to the British presence in Northern Ireland mark the anniversary of a 1916 uprising against British rule. A car-bombing and the hijacking of two vans in Londonderry earlier this year were also blamed on a dissident paramilitary group. The 1998 Good Friday peace deal largely brought an end to three decades of sectarian bloodshed between republican and unionist paramilitaries, as well as British armed forces, in a period known as "the Troubles". Some 3,500 people were killed in the conflict -- many at the hands of the Irish Republican Army (IRA). The group called a final ceasefire in 1997 and announced an end to its armed campaign in 2005, stating that it would seek to achieve its aims through peaceful political means. The New IRA is one of a number of dissident republican paramilitary groups opposed to the shift towards non-violent tactics to bring about a united Ireland. There have been concerns that paramilitaries could be seeking to exploit the current political turbulence over Northern Ireland and its border with the Republic of Ireland caused by Brexit.

New IRA admits responsibility for killing Northern Ireland journalist: Media

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