Northern Ireland

Analysis: A bruising week ahead for Arlene Foster and DUP

DUP leader Arlene Foster is to give evidence to the RHI inquiry again today
DUP leader Arlene Foster is to give evidence to the RHI inquiry again today DUP leader Arlene Foster is to give evidence to the RHI inquiry again today

ARLENE Foster's return to the RHI inquiry marks the start of what could be a particularly bruising week for both her and the DUP.

The party only last week dodged the embarrassing prospect of a Westminster by-election over Ian Paisley's undeclared Sri Lankan holidays – but now faces four successive days under the RHI spotlight.

Political parties like to be in control of their message, presenting an aura of unity while communicating to the public their policies and successes.

Instead, the DUP has a public inquiry combing over its inner workings, exposing along the way some damaging internal divisions and backroom bust-ups.

With three former special advisers giving evidence later this week, much of the focus will be on whether Stormont really is "Spads running the show", as one text uncovered by the inquiry put it.

DUP leader Arlene Foster, and former party special advisers John Robinson, Stephen Brimstone and Timothy Johnston
DUP leader Arlene Foster, and former party special advisers John Robinson, Stephen Brimstone and Timothy Johnston DUP leader Arlene Foster, and former party special advisers John Robinson, Stephen Brimstone and Timothy Johnston

Although Mrs Foster already appeared at the inquiry in April, her account of the events surrounding the botched green energy scheme is likely to be questioned more closely in light of other witnesses' claims.

If her written statements indicate what to expect today, the DUP leader will be relying mainly on denials and being unable to recall specifics.

With Stormont still at a standstill, the looming deadline towards Brexit and a party conference later this year, RHI can only heap more pressure on Mrs Foster's precarious future as DUP leader.

Read more:

  • RHI probe exposes 'grubby' spad culture at heart of DUP
  • Arlene Foster and Simon Hamilton 'played down senior spad's role in delaying cost controls'
  • Analysis: It's now make or break time for Arlene Foster
  • Arlene Foster to face critical RHI probe over contradictory evidence
  • RHI: Timothy Johnston 'involved in cost control delays'
  • Who's who at the RHI inquiry?