Ulster Unionist MLA Mike Nesbitt has welcomed a rare show of unanimity in the Northern Ireland Assembly, whereby all 81 members present signed a letter to the President of the FIG, calling on him to reverse the decision to ban three Northern Ireland gymnasts from competing in the Commonwealth Games in England because they had previously competed for Ireland.

Mike Nesbitt said:

“Today in the absence of a functioning Assembly where we could have debated the issue, the alternative was to ask all MLAs present in Stormont to sign an Open letter to the President of the FIG.

“I am delighted that all 81 members present, from the TUV to Sinn Fein, signed the letter.

“Sporting people should not suffer disadvantage because of how their governing bodies are structured.

“It is very common for individuals to represent Northern Ireland, Ireland or Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

“The FIG’s decision is a reversal of custom and practice and also a clear breach of the Belfast Agreement. Our Open letter urges the decision to be reversed with immediate effect.”