Politics

Runners and riders – the justice minister contenders

Former Alliance minister Stephen Farry
Former Alliance minister Stephen Farry Former Alliance minister Stephen Farry

Who is in the running for justice minister?

  • Stephen Farry – Until this week the former employment and learning minister was clear favourite to take the justice minister's post. However, Alliance's decision to put preconditions in place has created the current crisis. There is still wriggle room for Dr Farry's party before next Wednesday's deadline, but agreement remains a long way off.

VERDICT: Safe pair of hands but will Alliance go into government?

  • Claire Sugden – Before Thursday the 29-year-old independent unionist was largely anonymous outside her East Derry constituency. Her capabilities are generally unknown but her election earlier this month was a significant achievement. There remains a suspicion that the DUP and Sinn Féin aren't entirely genuine in their courting of Ms Sugden.

VERDICT: An outside bet but one to watch

  • Steven Agnew – During his first spell in the assembly the Green leader showed himself to be a very capable politician. However, while the DUP sanctioned preliminary discussions with the North Down MLA, it’s likely Arlene Foster baulked when she saw his conditions for taking the justice ministry.

VERDICT: Could do the job but too left-leaning for the DUP

  • Alastair Ross – A former private secretary to Arlene Foster, the East Antrim MLA is regarded as one of the DUP’s rising stars. Intelligent, articulate and a strong media performer, his lack of baggage may also appeal to Sinn Féin, which is unlikely to endorse one of the party’s more controversial figures.

VERDICT: Contender within the DUP, but would Sinn Fein allow the unionist party to take the sensitive job?