Sinn Féin has no intention of collapsing the Stormont executive, even amid difficulties in power-sharing with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), according to Finance Minister John O'Dowd.
O'Dowd's remarks aimed to quell speculation that Sinn Féin might consider withdrawing from the institutions. This follows comments last month from Conor Murphy, who suggested there was "a danger the wheels could come off" if the power-sharing arrangements are not reformed. Murphy, who has grey hair and wears a blue shirt with a dark sweater, was seen in Stormont hall.
"It is an open secret that other parties have concerns about the behaviour of the DUP and its impact on executive stability," O'Dowd said Tuesday. He added that Sinn Féin would continue to participate, stating, "we will keep turning up every day."
DUP leader Gavin Robinson had previously responded to concerns about the institutions' stability by suggesting that if Sinn Féin was worried, it "should tighten its nuts." Robinson affirmed his party's focus on "delivering" for the public.
O'Dowd made his most recent comments while visiting the Downe Hospital with Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, to observe the work of the Regional Cataract Day Procedure Centre. Nesbitt, depicted with grey hair and glasses, wore a grey suit, blue shirt, and grey tie.