Crisis is a word frequently bandied about when Stormont is being discussed.
On an almost daily basis there is talk of the North’s government, set up 17 years ago after the Belfast Agreement, being on the verge of collapse.
Those early optimistic days of the peace process are long gone, as Northern politicians float from one exhausting row to another on everything from welfare, parades and flags to identity and commemorations.
The public has grown weary, with arguably few people believing the institutions are in any real danger. However, the developments since Kevin McGuigan’s murder earlier this month have the potential to be a game changer.
The fallout from the Chief Constable’s assessment of the current status and activities of the Provisional IRA has contributed to a further fracturing of already fragile relationships and a deepening of political tensions between the main parties “up on the hill” .
Little choice
Accusations and arguments will inevitably rumble on, but the Assembly is likely to continue on its dysfunctional path because the alternatives, such as direct rule, are not palatable to any side.
Sinn Féin has been keen to highlight its support for the police and its rejection of violence. While welcoming the Chief Constable’s comments accepting the leadership’s “bona fides” in pursuit of peace, it is denying his claims about the status of the IRA.
But the party will face tough questions from a variety of quarters on matters such as the Chief Constable’s assertion that “some Provisional IRA organisational infrastructure continues to exist”.
The DUP and UUP, are seeking meetings with the Northern Ireland Secretary of State, Theresa Villiers, when she returns from holiday.
DUP leader Peter Robinson has spoken of the possible exclusion of Sinn Féin from government and UUP leader Mike Nesbitt says the credibility of the party is "in tatters".
Through Twitter Ms Villiers described what has been happening as a “serious situation”, but it has not been deemed urgent enough to end her holiday.
The DUP believes there could be consequences for the institutions at Stormont.
Only time will tell.
