Ms O’Neill is repeating a stance she took last March over attending the traditional events at the White House with President Trump. Last year, the SDLP and Alliance also stayed away from the White House, while DUP ministers, including the deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly attended. Meanwhile Mr Burrows put to Ms O’Neill that her decision on humanitarian grounds is “at odds” with her party colleague and Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald visiting China last year. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly (Liam McBurney/PA)“Unfortunately, many members in the benches opposite will be on the wrong side at this historical moment. “We’ve also made clear where we disagree with the president, and we do disagree with them on many different occasions.

Source: The Herald February 16, 2026 15:23 UTC