DUP Assemblyman George Dawson dies after short illness

Today's ceremony to swear in a new era of devolved government at Stormont is expected to be delayed by 30 minutes following the death of DUP Assembly member George Dawson last night.

The East Antrim MLA had been tipped as a possible future minister in the power-sharing executive.

However, the 45-year-old died last night after a short illness.

Paying tribute to Mr Dawson, DUP leader Ian Paisley said his contribution to the party was second to none.