Decision time

Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness will be consulting with their respective party colleagues before deciding which departments they want and who will be the respective Ministers.

There is also the complication of whether the Alliance party will earn a seat at the table or will the Ulster Unionists come back with two.

All that, of course, depends on David McClarty and he is keeping his cards close to his chest until the last moment, possibly Thursday morning.

So what will be the make-up of the new Executive?

Peter Robinson has been a strong advocate of changing his Ministers and this time he has even more mouths to feed.

There is also the question of double jobbing, should an MP also be a Minister?

This would, of course, apply particularly to Sammy Wilson.

Peter Robinson has already said the Finance portfolio is his number one choice in the new Executive.

Sammy Wilson was seen as a successful in the role and my suspicion is Peter Robinson would be reluctant to dispense with experience and talent and that applies to Arlene Foster, as well.

But he will also be aware that young MLAs like Simon Hamilton are pushing for promotion.

I would expect a few changes.

Some in Sinn Féin also believe change is good.

They point out that those with Ministerial experience could have an important role scrutinising departments in committees.

And there is real talent with people like John O'Dowd and Michelle O'Neill in the ranks.

The First and deputy First ministers will have committee chairs to fill and that will satisfy some of the demand.

As for the hot department of education, the DUP seems increasingly keen.

The Assembly will meet on Thursday when the speaker is elected, Willie Hay remains the favourite.

But it could well be next Monday before the Executive is in place.

In the meantime, there will be a major negotiation in Stormont Castle.

After that it will be down to business.