Talks To Form New Power-Sharing Executive Resume

Talks to restore a new power-sharing Executive are to resume at Stormont today, 03 April.

Political parties will meet to discuss a way forward after missing last week's deadline.

NI Secretary James Brokenshire invited all of the parties to take part in another round of talks after Sinn Fein refused to nominate a Deputy First Minister.

He said that if no agreement was reached another election may be called or direct rule will be imposed.

SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood said: "I welcome the fact that both governments have reconvened talks under a more structured process which provides potential for a resolution.

"All parties must come to the table with a firm focus on securing a resolution to the issues we face and securing a power sharing Executive. The challenge ahead is significant but the gaps between the parties and the governments can be closed.

"Those involved in the talks, including the British Government, should be under no illusion. Confidence in our institutions and in politics is draining quickly. The public is absolutely furious and they will not accept further failure.

"The triggering of Article 50 and the stark warning of the Lord Chief Justice should focus minds in the days ahead. If power sharing cannot be re-established now, there is a serious threat that we’ll lose power over our affairs for a very long time. We cannot allow that to happen."

Sinn Féin leader in the North Michelle O'Neill MLA said: "Sinn Féin remain engaged in the process to find a resolution which will deliver progress at Stormont. 

"We don't need a new agreement; what we need is implementation of what has previously agreed. 

"We are fully committed to making the institutions work but they can only function on the basis of equality, integrity and respect. 

"It is time to see real delivery and we need to see the Irish government step up to the plate and we need to see the British government end its pandering to the DUP and fulfil its responsibilities to oversee the delivery of agreements previously made.

"We want to see the institutions work but to achieve that all the parties know what needs to happen, the British government know what needs to happen and that will be Sinn Féin's focus in the days ahead." 

(CD/LM)