Woodward Optimistic Over Boundaries

Northern Ireland Secretary Shaun Woodward has said he is optimistic wrangling over new council boundaries can be resolved this week.

Mr Woodward's endorsement came amid growing concerns the crisis could collapse the proposed overhaul of local authorities in the province.

Government legislation to transform the current 26 local governments into 11 super councils has stalled over boundary issues.

Environment Minister Edwin Poots, the politician charged with overseeing the amalgamations, has been accused of modern day gerrymandering.

Nationalists blamed Mr Poots of having a conflict of interest because he wants to change a boundary in Lisburn, where he is a councillor.

The Minister denied suggestions of bias, insisting he believes plans laid out by the independent boundaries commission simply does not make senses.

"I've been approached by four out of the five major parties who asked me to make changes and bring Dunmurry back into Lisburn," he said.

Mr Poots warned if agreement could not be reached before this Thursday's Executive meeting, the £400m public money saving scheme could falter.

However, the Secretary of State said he is optimistic a deal can be done.

"I'm optimistic and also I'm realistic. I think people in Northern Ireland have travelled a long way," Mr Woodward said.

"Whilst there may be a degree of raising issues to the point of a challenge, nonetheless I think what Northern Ireland consistently shows is that the politicians are able to meet these challenges.

"I'm confident they'll be able to do so on this issue as well."

Failure draft the necessary legislation before the end of next month could prompt an early election.

(PR/GK)