Justice Rift Goes Public

The growing rift between Stormont's top politicians, Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness over policing and justice entered the public domain yesterday for the first time.

Tensions between the First and Deputy First Ministers are believed to have been simmering for some time.

Their ongoing disagreement regarding the timetable for devolved policing and justice powers unfolded in front of the media in Limavady yesterday afternoon.

Standing side-by-side, the men took questions from journalists following a North-South Ministerial Council meeting.

Mr McGuiness (pictured) was asked if he would resign if a date was not set before Christmas, after earlier warning the Assembly would face crisis if definite progress was not made.

The Sinn Féin Deputy First Minister said he and Mr Robinson had reached agreement 13 months ago, however, this did not pertain "a solo run" to Downing Street, or pre-conditions over parading.

"I move forward against the backdrop of the agreements that I made with Peter Robinson 13 months ago where we agreed an over-30 step approach to the transfer of powers on policing and justice," he said.

"I have to say at no stage in that process was the issue of issues being used as pre-conditions for the transfer of power for policing and justice mentioned."

DUP leader Mr Robinson shook his head while Mr McGuinness spoke. He accused his opposite number of bringing private details into the public domain.

"I regret the tone of the latter remarks," said the First Minister.

"I don't think that it is helpful for us to be going into the finer details of these matters, but nobody is in any doubt that the issue of parades was moving forward and was held back."

Mr McGuinness then shook his head throughout.

Policing and justice devolution was not on the agenda at yesterday's meeting, which brought together ministers from both sides of the border.

Mr Robinson and Mr McGuinness showed a united front while welcoming Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen to the talks.

Prior to the summit, Mr Cowen said economic recovery for the entire island should be a priority for both governments.

"The scale of the economic challenge facing everyone on this island is now fully recognised by all," he said.

"Meeting that challenge has called for resolute leadership in taking difficult decisions, as we build towards economic recovery."

(PR/BMcC)