John Larkin says he sees merit in Stormont opposition

John Larkin said he does not court controversy

Attorney General John Larkin has said he can see merit in the argument there should be an opposition at Stormont.

Mr Larkin told the Irish Catholic newspaper that to have so many parties represented in the executive is not conducive to good adversarial politics.

He has already caused controversy over his call for an end to prosecutions for Troubles-related killings.

Commenting on the executive's workings will give more ammunition to those accusing him of overstepping his remit.

Asked to reflect on Northern Ireland 15 years after the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, he said while there were disagreements it was remarkable how far things have progressed.

Mr Larkin said there is huge force in the argument that to have so many parliamentarians in government is not particularly conducive to good adversarial politics.

"There may be a role for giving more space for an opposition. I can see the force in those arguments," he added.

Asked if he courted controversy, Mr Larkin replied: "Good heavens no."

On Thursday, Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly tweeted: "Is John Larkin legal advisor or political commentator? He can run for election and join Jim Allister and a bevy of lawyers in the assembly!"