DUP leader Arlene Foster has confirmed she has spoken with the prime minister about “stabilising” the nation, as well as making a thinly veiled dig at Scottish nationalists.
Mrs. Foster said her and Theresa May would talk more to “explore how it may be possible to bring stability to this nation at this time of great challenge”.
Whilst striving for the “best deal” for Northern Ireland and its people, she said her party would always have the best interests of the UK at heart.
In a statement, the conservative leader also appeared to revel in the downfall of the Scottish National Party, robustly defending the Union.
She wrote: “Yesterday also represented a great result for the Union. Not just here in Northern Ireland but right across our United Kingdom. Those who want to tear apart the Union that we cherish and benefit from so hugely have been sent a clear and resounding message.
“In the days and week ahead, it is that Union that will be to the forefront of our minds. The Union is our ‘guiding star’. We may represent Northern Ireland constituencies in the House of Commons but we are as seized of the interests of the Kingdom as a whole as we are for our small Province.
“I make no apology for saying that the DUP will always strive for the best deal for Northern Ireland and its people. but equally, we want the best for all of the United Kingdom.
Speaking about her own party’s gains, she also said: “Yesterday’s General Election was truly historic. The Democratic Unionist Party recorded its best ever election result.
“I want to thank each and every one of the two hundred and ninety two thousand three hundred and sixteen people who returned 10 DUP Members of Parliament to the House of Commons to stand up and speak out for Norther Ireland.
“To secure a third of all votes cast is truly humbling. We do not take your support for granted and we make you all a simple promise to do everything we can to reward the trust you have placed in this Party.”