The prime minister is not the only one whose feet are being held to the fire over D-Day 80th anniversary commemorations.
Northern Ireland’s first minister has been criticised for not attending, with only the deputy going instead.
DUP leader Gavin Robinson said it had been an opportunity for Michelle O’Neill to act as the first minister for all.
“With men from across the island being remembered, I am disappointed that the deputy first minister was alone in Normandy and the other half of the joint office was absent.
“When we consider how so many from this island have only been able to openly remember their grandparents’ war efforts in recent years, this was a missed opportunity for leadership and reconciliation.”
He continued: “The first minister should recognise it was a mistake.”
Mr Robinson also accused Rishi Sunak of undermining “the authenticity of the speech” he made at the British Normandy Memorial by departing early.
A spokesperson for the Executive Office said: “The Executive Office [TEO] receives many invitations and endeavours to attend as many events as possible.
“TEO is represented by the first minister, deputy first minister and junior ministers.
“This week, TEO was represented at events including the D-Day commemorations; business awards and the Your Time to Shine female leaders celebration event.”
Leave a Reply