What reform does the St Andrews Agreement seek to establish regarding ministerial accountability?

The St Andrews Agreement specifically emphasizes the establishment of a legally binding Ministerial Code, which was intended to enhance accountability among ministers within the Northern Ireland Executive. This code sets out the standards of conduct expected from ministers, aiming to ensure that they act in the public interest and adhere to principles of good governance.

By instituting this legally binding framework, the St Andrews Agreement sought to strengthen democratic accountability and transparency in governance, addressing some past criticisms regarding ministerial conduct and decision-making processes. This reform is particularly relevant to the context of government in Northern Ireland, where past political tensions had underscored the need for clearer guidelines and responsibilities to foster trust in the political system.

The other options, while they may touch on issues of governance or political structure, do not align with the specific provisions of the St Andrews Agreement regarding ministerial accountability. For example, removing party controls over ministers could lead to a less cohesive government and undermine party structures that are integral to the devolved system. Similarly, an independent electoral system for ministers or equal power distribution among parties would fundamentally alter the existing political framework rather than focus on enhancing ministerial accountability as indicated in the agreement.