THE NORTH’S First Minister Peter Robinson has pledged to continue in politics despite the revelations he and his wife Iris made yesterday about their marital difficulties and how Ms Robinson attempted suicide last March.
Ms Robinson issued a statement admitting that during a period of “serious mental illness” she had an affair with an unnamed man, an affair that prompted her attempt to take her own life.
“I love my husband more than I can ever say. I know this more now than ever before. So great was my guilt and regret that I tried to take my own life 10 months ago,” she said in her written statement.
The DUP leader and First Minister spoke of his sense of betrayal but also of his continuing love for his wife. His voice often cracking with emotion, he said his first instinct was “to walk away from my marriage” but that “over time and on calmer reflection I set her inappropriate behaviour against 40 years of bringing up our children – often alone – 40 years of selflessly giving me the space to pursue my beliefs.”
He added: “I love my wife. I have always been faithful to her. In a spirit of humility and repentance, Iris sought my forgiveness. She took responsibility upon herself alone for her actions and I have forgiven her. More important, I know that she has sought and received God’s forgiveness.”
Referring to speculation around his financial affairs, Mr Robinson said he had always acted in the “most professional and ethical way”.
In her statement, Ms Robinson said: “Over a year and a half ago, I was involved in a relationship. It began completely innocently when I gave support to someone following a family death. I encouraged friends to assist him by providing financial support for a business venture. Regrettably, the relationship later developed into a brief affair.”
At Christmas, Ms Robinson announced that because of ill-health and depression she was standing down as MP and Assembly member for the Strangford constituency.
Mr Robinson said he would meet Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness today to discuss “how we might make real progress”. Mr McGuinness last night wished the Robinsons “well as they seek to rebuild relationships away from the public glare”.