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21/09/2009
Ministers Resume Justice Funding Talks
Northern Ireland's First and Deputy First Ministers today reopened talks at Downing Street centred on agreeing a financial package for a devolved ministry of justice.
The new department would also oversee the province's policing, and pave the way for a local Attorney General.
Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness have held a succession of talks with PM Gordon Brown - most recently last week - but have still to settle a final funding deal.
Both ministers have insisted a satisfactory budget must be in place before the new powers are transferred to the Stormont Executive.
On Wednesday, Mr Robinson conceded some progress had been made, with Mr McGuinness insisting the new department must be established before Christmas.
Speaking ahead of today's meeting, Mr McGuinness said he expects the Prime Minister "to do the right thing".
The Deputy First Minister said there was responsibility on the DUP and Sinn Fein to reach agreement.
The Tories' shadow NI Secretary Owen Paterson said his party was not prepared to underwrite any deal, given the current squeeze on public finances.
Mr Robinson had earlier called on Tory Leader David Cameron to approve the eventual budget, given the possibility of a Conservative government following the next general election.
(PR/KMcA)
The new department would also oversee the province's policing, and pave the way for a local Attorney General.
Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness have held a succession of talks with PM Gordon Brown - most recently last week - but have still to settle a final funding deal.
Both ministers have insisted a satisfactory budget must be in place before the new powers are transferred to the Stormont Executive.
On Wednesday, Mr Robinson conceded some progress had been made, with Mr McGuinness insisting the new department must be established before Christmas.
Speaking ahead of today's meeting, Mr McGuinness said he expects the Prime Minister "to do the right thing".
The Deputy First Minister said there was responsibility on the DUP and Sinn Fein to reach agreement.
The Tories' shadow NI Secretary Owen Paterson said his party was not prepared to underwrite any deal, given the current squeeze on public finances.
Mr Robinson had earlier called on Tory Leader David Cameron to approve the eventual budget, given the possibility of a Conservative government following the next general election.
(PR/KMcA)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
