APN 4 – 17/22: Tributes To Martin Mcguinness, Former Deputy First Minister

Following the passing of the former deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness, the Speaker has invited Members to gather in the Assembly Chamber at noon tomorrow in order to pay their tributes and express condolences. The Speaker will lead Members in making these tributes before providing an opportunity for other Members to do so.

Party leaders present will be invited to speak for up to five minutes. The Speaker will then call Members as they rise in their places to speak for up to three minutes in order to give time for as many contributions as possible.

The public gallery will be open during this time.

This opportunity for tributes and condolences is not a sitting of the Assembly. It will not therefore commence with Prayers and there will be no order paper.

After approximately 90 minutes, the Speaker will proceed with party leaders to the Great Hall to open a book of condolence. After Members have had an opportunity to sign the book of condolence, it will then be open to members of the public.

Members of the public will be able to sign the book of condolences between 2.30pm and 6.00pm on Wednesday 22 March and between 9.00am and 4.00pm on Thursday 23 and Friday 24 March.