Momentum gathers in race to save peace process

As Northern Ireland slides closer to yet another deadline, bilateral and cross party levels of talks are slowly gathering momentum in an effort to save the peace process and devolution from collapse.

It has been confirmed that Taoiseach Bertie Ahern is to meet with his British counterpart Tony Blair for breakfast-time talks on the situation in London on Wednesday 19 September.

Irish government officials are already in place in London to conduct discussions ahead of the prime ministerial exchanges.

Mr Ahern said: “We face another deadline in the process this weekend, but hopefully we can move on to full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement.”

The Northern Ireland Assembly has until midnight on Saturday 22 September to appoint new first and deputy ministers.

Secretary of State Dr Reid imposed the deadline nearly six weeks ago following a 24-hour suspension of the devolved government.

Dr Reid has the option of an open-ended suspension of the institutions followed by a review, or else for a second 24-hour suspension. Either option would prevent or postpone the collapse of Northern Ireland’s devolved government. (AMcE)