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james73

Paisley to quit as first minister

Northern Ireland First Minister Ian Paisley is to stand down from the post in May,
he has announced.

He also said he would be resigning as leader of the DUP, a party he has led for
almost 40 years. He will continue as MP and MLA for North Antrim.

Mr Paisley, who will be 82 in April, became first minister in May 2007 following
the suspension of direct rule after a period of five years.

Peter Robinson, the party's deputy leader, is expected to take his place.

"Unionists are no longer protesting against a London/Dublin deal with which we
have no truck," Mr Paisley said.

"We are inside the building administering British rule over Northern Ireland."

Mr Paisley stood down as moderator of the Free Presbyterian Church in January
amid concerns about his duel role as the church's leader and first minister.

James H
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