Northern Ireland To Restart Talks To Restore Devolved Government

Following the UK's general election on December 12th, Northern Ireland's government status is highlighted. The region has been without a government for nearly three years due to a power-sharing coalition breakdown in 2017. The Irish Nationalist Party, Shin Fane, withdrew from the assembly after disagreements with the Democratic Unionist Party, leading to a government standstill. Northern Ireland Secretary Julian Smith announced a deadline of January 13th for restoring the government. If unresolved, an assembly election will be required. Shin Fane leader Michelle O'Neill emphasized the need for resolving outstanding issues for a sustainable and credible restoration.

What is the deadline to restore the Northern Ireland government?

What will happen if the parties cannot reach an agreement by January 13th?