Sinn Fein's Conor Murphy standing down as Economy Minister on health grounds

His Sinn Fein colleague, Deirdre Hargey, will take on the role “on an interim basis,” according to the party.

Sinn Féin vice president, Michelle O’Neill said Mr Murphy was standing down as Minister tonight on medical grounds.

“Conor has been advised by his doctor to rest and will undergo further medical tests,” she said.

“My colleagues and I all wish Conor a full and speedy recovery.

“I am nominating Deirdre Hargey to step in as Economy Minister on an interim basis pending Conor’s return.”

Mr Murphy has been wished well in his recovery by fellow MLAs.

UUP leader Doug Beattie said he hopes Mr Murphy makes a speedy recovery, while SDLP Leader of the Opposition, Matthew O'Toole, said it is "absolutely right" for Mr Murphy to make his health his priority.

"Hope to see him back at his desk and in the chamber when he's ready," he wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Mr Murphy has been in the role for three months.

Before that he was finance minister (January 2020 to October 2022), and minister for regional development (May 2007 to May 2011).

He has been an MLA since the Assembly was set up in 1998.