Time To Make Policing Deal: Durkan

There is further pressure this afternoon for the long-awaited establishment of a Stormont Policing and Justice Department.

SDLP Leader and Foyle MP Mark Durkan has said today that the 'space' created by Peter Robinson's decision to stand aside as First Minister must be used to deliver policing and justice and powers.

"The DUP may have bought some time with the decision of Peter Robinson to stand aside. We have to use that time and space to deliver on policing and justice," he said.

"If we are expected to put up with the current situation and make the most of these difficulties then it has to be on the basis that progress will be made on this most substantive of political issues.

"The DUP have said all along that public confidence in policing and justice is an issue yet they quickly decided over the weekend there was sufficient public confidence in them and Peter Robinson.

"Therefore, there is no reason why there should be any further delay or contrite process in the devolution of policing and justice.

"Peter Robinson said his decision to stand aside will allow him to have concentrated focus on policing and justice," continued the SDLP Leader.

"We all thought this ought to have been the case beforehand. Now is the time to get some progress and a better outcome for devolving policing and justice."

Yesterday, Prime Minister Gordon Brown contacted the acting First Minister Arlene Foster and pushed for all MLAs to focus on the business of government.

"I urge all politicians in Northern Ireland, whatever the turbulence of recent events, to remain focused on the business of government, and to recognise the crucial importance of intensifying engagement in those issues which remain to be solved," he said.

NIO Secretary of State Shaun Woodward also confirmed that activity is intensifying with three meeting taking place between the two largest parties - Sinn Féin and the DUP - yesterday on the contentious devolution of policing and justice powers to the local Executive.

Sinn Féin has long said the new department should be established as soon as possible.

(BMcC/GK)