On Friday, January 8, Ms Foster also released a statement that said: “There has been much talk from my political opponents about accountability for the RHI scheme and its out workings [..]

“My position has been, and remains, that I am content to be held to account for my actions as a Minister.”

Tweeting about McGuinness’s protest resignation this afternoon, Gerry Adams said: “Ten years of valiant series in Office of First and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness signs resignation letter. In a letter to the speaker of the Northern Ireland assembly, McGuinness said Arlene Foster’s decision not to stand aside over the affair was “not credible or tenable”. Read more: When he goes, she goes

Image copyright Pacemaker Image caption Martin McGuinness has been at the top of politics in Northern Ireland since he agreed to share power with Ian Paisley 10 years ago

An election could be called next week if Sinn Féin does not nominate a replacement as deputy first minister, and Mr McGuinness has said the party will not do that.
Martin McGuinness of Sinn Féin resigns as the NI deputy first minister in protest of handling by the Democratic Unionist Party of a failed energy scheme that cost Northern Irish taxpayers £490 million. His decision will likely lead to a snap election.