Political parties 'serious about doing a deal' - Murphy

Secretary of State Paul Murphy has said that he believes Northern Ireland's political parties are serious about doing a deal to restore the devolved institutions.

Speaking ahead of today's meetings with Northern Ireland's political leaders, Mr Murphy said that it was decision time for the parties.

"Before the summer break, all the parties and the two Governments met in London," Mr Murphy. "I thought that there was a very considerable seriousness on the part of the political parties that they wanted to do a deal to address those issues which meant there had been a breakdown in confidence and consequently a suspension of the Assembly.

"I think the mood is right amongst politicians, whether they are in Government or whether they are local politicians because there is no question in my mind that all political parties in Northern Ireland really do want devolution back and an ability to run their own affairs."

Talks between the political parties and the Secretary of State will be held this week at Parliament Buildings. Irish Minister Brian Cowen will also hold talks on Strands 2 and 3 with the parties tomorrow.

These meeting are ahead of the intensive discussions with the political parties and the two Governments will be held later this month.

(mb/sp)