Recommendation 12

We understand the cautionary arguments against short-term reform to the process for the election of the Speaker. In previous instances of institutional boycott, the possibility of reforming the thresholds for electing key institutional roles such as Speaker of the Assembly was not seriously considered. This, coupled to the passing of time, is insufficient reason to preclude limited, purposeful intervention to make the institutions more operable in times of crisis for Northern Ireland, when stable and effective government is perhaps needed more than ever. The ability of the Assembly to elect a Speaker is fundamental to this and we see it as a priority that the Assembly has a Speaker in place as soon as possible. (Paragraph 77) 76 The effectiveness of the institutions of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement