What is a main characteristic of the devolved parliamentary system in Northern Ireland?

The characteristic of the devolved parliamentary system in Northern Ireland that allows it to legislate on local issues is fundamental to its function. This system was established to provide a degree of self-governance, enabling the Northern Ireland Assembly to make decisions on areas such as education, health, and transportation, among others. This local legislative power is crucial because it allows representatives from Northern Ireland to address specific needs and concerns that may differ from those in other parts of the UK.

By having this legislative ability, Northern Ireland can tailor its policies and laws to better reflect the priorities and values of its citizens, thus fostering a sense of local control and accountability. This autonomy distinguishes it from other systems where governance is significantly more centralized, emphasizing the importance of regional representation and decision-making in the devolved context.