AS expected, MLAs have overwhelmingly backed a motion of censure against Sinn Féin Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill over her role in the funeral of Bobby Storey.
Ms O'Neill played a prominent role in events which, by her own admission, damaged the public health message in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Sinn Féin's insensitive dismissal of criticism of last June's funeral, notably its size and the curious circumstances surrounding many aspects of its organisation, continue to be a source of hurt across the community.
It has also fed the perception that Sinn Féin did not believe that stringent Covid funeral guidelines applied to the party and its executive ministers.
In particular, Ms O'Neill's blunt insistence that she would "never apologise for attending the funeral of my friend" displayed a huge lack of empathy to so many members of the public, including among Sinn Féin voters, who have selflessly chosen to not gather with friends and family to celebrate the life of a loved one.
Ms O'Neill did not address those comments in the assembly yesterday, which was a missed opportunity.
She did, however, say she was "truly sorry" for hurt caused "to so many families who have lost a loved one", adding that this was a "heartfelt and unreserved apology".
While welcome, this is the least Ms O'Neill could have said; many will feel that Sinn Féin has further to travel if it is to address the real and deeply-felt hurts that remain.
