Church leaders meet PM in Downing Street

The leaders of Ireland's four main churches have met with Prime Minister Tony Blair today in Downing Street.

Church of Ireland Archbishop Robin Eames, Catholic Primate Archbishop Sean Brady, Dr Russell Birney of the Presbyterian Church and Methodist President the Reverend Winston Graham all described their meeting as "positive".

The discussions were believed to have centred around sectarianism and the current political situation.

Lord Eames described the talks as one of the best meetings he has had in Downing Street and that all the Church leaders remained hopeful that in the weeks ahead politicians in Northern Ireland could find agreement.

The meeting, held at the prime minister's request, is an annual event.

(MB)