DUP accuses SF of harming North’s economy

First Minister Peter Robinson has accused Sinn Féin of harming the North's economy by continuing to block meetings of the power-sharing Executive.

The body has failed to meet since mid-June due to a row between Sinn Féin and the DUP regarding the devolution of policing and justice powers to Stormont.

Last night, Sinn Féin accused elements within the unionist party of trying to reimpose unionist domination in the North by blocking the devolution of these powers.

The DUP leader hit back during a meeting of businessmen today, saying the lack of Executive meetings was eroding confidence in the North's economy.

He said that, at a time when governments around the world are acting to deal with the financial crisis. it was critical that the Executive held talks.