Michelle O'Neill, Northern Ireland's First Minister, has reported that Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly has obstructed their attendance at an economic summit with Prime Minister Andy Burnham. This decision follows unionist backlash against Sinn Féin's role in protests that disrupted an Orange Order march in Portadown.
O'Neill criticized the move as detrimental to Northern Ireland's representation, while Little-Pengelly cited concerns over O'Neill's actions and the sentiments of many citizens. The DUP is facing internal pressures regarding its response to recent events, including calls for O'Neill's removal from office.