21/01/2010

McGuinness Updates Party Board

Martin McGuinness will update senior Sinn Féin officials on policing and justice negotiations later.

Mr McGuinness and his party are still locked in talks with the DUP, aimed at overcoming outstanding barriers to devolving the powers.

Both parties held further discussions yesterday, with speculation mounting an agreement could be announced soon.

Sinn Féin has denied setting a deadline for resolving the impasse. However, republicans are reportedly unhappy with progress, as the intensified talks enter their second week.

Parading has proved a major stumbling block for both side.

DUP members want to abolish the Parades Commission, which adjudicates on Orange Order march.

The unionist party is believed to favour an option put forward by Lord Ashdown.

Sin Fein has objected to changes in the status quo.

According to political sources, the leading parties could defer a decision on the issue so the transfer of policing and judiciary powers can progress.

Sinn Féin has already cancelled its national conference since talks began. The party has not yet threatened to removed Mr McGuiness from the office of Deputy First Minister.

He will report on the continued wrangling to its officer board.

(PR/GK)

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