Deadline Day To Restore Power Sharing In NI

Political parties have until 4pm today, 29 June, to restore power sharing in Northern Ireland.

Discussions have been ongoing to resolve outstanding issues to form an Executive.

However, Sinn Fein said the DUP have not moved to "address the issues of rights, equality and respect".

MLA John O'Dowd said: "The DUP knows what needs to be done.

"There is an onus on the two governments to inject the necessary urgency and momentum to bring this negotiation to a successful conclusion."

The DUP also said the Irish government has no jurisdiction in Northern Ireland.

MLA Christopher Stalford said: "Only last week the Irish government lectured our United Kingdom government on the importance of observing neutrality when dealing with Northern Ireland parties. Yet, by publicly declaring its support for Sinn Fein's position in negotiations, the Irish government has undermined its own credibility as being neutral. Minister Coveney will now need to address this.

"The DUP wants a constructive relationship with the Irish Government but it must be founded upon matters of mutual interest and respect between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland."

If parties fail to reach an agreement by the deadline NI faces the prospect of direct rule.

(CD)