'Real concern' in Government at emergence of more hard-line DUP

Edwin Poots, the North’s minister of agriculture, environment, and rural affairs, seen as the frontrunner to replace first minister

Announcing her resignation, Ms Foster said it was important to give space over the next few weeks for DUP officers to make arrangements for the election of a new leader.

There is "real concern" within Government about the viability of the Northern executive amid fears that a more hard-line DUP leader could emerge after the resignation of Arlene Foster.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Leo Varadkar have paid tribute to Ms Foster, who fell on her sword amid recrimination and chaos within the DUP.