Irish-language row threatens to derail Northern Ireland government

Standoff between DUP and Sinn Fein blocking ratification of Arlene Foster's designated successor

A dispute between Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionist party (DUP) over an Irish-language act is threatening to derail the Northern Ireland assembly and executive.

Arlene Foster was due to resign as first minister at 1pm on Monday but a standoff between the two biggest parties at Stormont is blocking her designated successor, Paul Givan, 39, from taking the post.