What is one key difference between the Northern Ireland Assembly and the UK Parliament?

The Northern Ireland Assembly and the UK Parliament serve distinct functions within the political system of the United Kingdom, particularly in terms of their legislative powers. The key difference highlighted in the correct answer is that the Assembly has legislative authority over local matters specific to Northern Ireland, while the UK Parliament deals with issues that affect the entire UK.

This division allows the Assembly to focus on regional concerns such as education, health, and justice, tailoring its decisions and legislation to the needs of the Northern Irish population. In contrast, the UK Parliament addresses broader issues such as foreign affairs, defense, and national security that are applicable across the entire United Kingdom.

Understanding this distinction emphasizes the devolved nature of Northern Ireland's governance, illustrating how local governance works in conjunction with a larger, centralized government. This structure enables more localized decision-making, allowing Northern Ireland to address its unique social and political challenges effectively.