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NI politicians have reacted to the formation of a new government, with David Cameron as prime minister.A coalition between the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats brings to an end speculation that NI parties would have a role in a new administration.
It is not yet known who will be the new Northern Ireland Secretary, although Owen Paterson is tipped for the job.
The NI first minister Peter Robinson said that he wished Mr Cameron well in dealing with the UK's problems.
The DUP leader added: "As a party we look forward to David Cameron proving himself to be the unionist prime minister that he has promised.
"At Westminster the DUP will support the government when it acts in the best interests of Northern Ireland and of the UK even where that involves difficult decisions.
"However, it is important that the long term interests of the United Kingdom are not sacrificed in the interests of short term political expediency and the DUP will oppose any measures which endanger the sovereignty or safety of the people of the UK."
SDLP leader Margaret Ritchie said she would be fighting Northern Ireland's corner against cuts in public spending.
She added: "It should be remembered that we in Northern Ireland have the highest levels of need so any cuts would do disproportionally more damage here and cause more hardship."
The Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams said local parties should unite against any reduction in public spending.
He added: "The focus here has to be on getting the best block grant possible and in outright opposition to any cuts and democratising all of that by engaging with civic society, with the trade unions, the community, the voluntary and the business sectors."This article is from the BBC News website. ? British Broadcasting Corporation, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.