Northern Ireland First Minister Paul Givan Resigns (Video)

Northern Ireland First Minister Paul Givan announced his resignation, Thursday, in DUP protocol protest.

The Lagan Valley MLA said: "Today marks the end of what has been the privilege of my lifetime - to serve as the First Minister of Northern Ireland."

https://twitter.com/paulgivan/status/1489278517934178308

"When I first entered the Assembly 12 years ago, I never expected to have the opportunity to lead the government and serve the people of Northern Ireland as first minister," Givan said.

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"Holding this office is one that comes with a heavy responsibility and I have often felt the weight of this burden, to do what is right for all out people."

The announcement comes amid the DUP's escalating strategy against Brexit's Northern Ireland Protocol - part of the Brexit deal which was agreed by both sides and is designed to prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland.

The DUP has repeatedly threatened to withdraw its ministers from the Stormont Executive if sufficient changes are not made to the Northern Ireland protocol.

Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis described Givan's decision to resign as "extremely disappointing".

In a statement, Lewis said: "I urge them to reinstate the First Minister immediately to ensure the necessary delivery of public services for the citizens of Northern Ireland."