Comments on McGuinness-Robinson row

5.03.00pm GMT Wed 30th Sep 2009

David Ford says, "The First and deputy First Minister must demonstrate that they can get on in a professional capacity".

Alliance Leader David Ford has commented following reports of a disagreement between the First and Deputy First Minister regarding a meeting on the budget for the future Justice Ministry.

David Ford said: "People don't expect Martin McGuinness and Peter Robinson to be best mates but they need to have a good working relationship. Their parties made a commitment at St Andrew's and following the Assembly elections, and people expect them to stick by that commitment. The public expect them to act like adults, not spoilt children.

"People don't want more rows at the heart of government. They want to see an Executive that delivers. This statement from Martin McGuinness is deeply worrying

"The First and Deputy First Ministers must demonstrate that they can get on in a professional capacity. Sitting in government together is in itself not enough - we need government that works effectively and delivers."