In the Irish Times, Frank Millar notes what various sources are saying about the timing of the devolution of policing and justice powers as the most recent bill is rushed through the UK Parliament.
While officials refuse to be drawn on the issue – and stress the timing is a matter for the Assembly – the indications are that Whitehall now expects the transfer of powers to take place some time after this year’s European elections in June and before the British general election, which need not be called until May next year.
Some DUP sources, on the other hand, have indicated a likely timetable of “a year to 18 months” before the new arrangements “go live” at Stormont – exciting some speculation that they might seek to have the new ministry established initially in “shadow” form.
That would require the agreement of those concerned.. As you well know..
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