McGuinness: Step change in talks
Martin McGuinness has said there has been a “step change” in the North's political talks.
Ten weeks of discussions have been held about the budget for the devolved administration at Stormont as well as issues left over from the peace process.
Sinn Féin’s lead negotiator and deputy first minister sounded an optimistic note.
He tweeted: “A step change in negotiations!! Our team focused but more to do!!”
A step change in negotiations !!Our team focussed but more to do !! pic.twitter.com/YKnQA57BAi
— Martin McGuinness (@M_McGuinness_SF) December 19, 2014
Members of the five-party coalition at Stormont have been locked in talks for weeks in an effort to resolve issues which have paralysed decision-making.
A dispute between the Democratic Unionists and Sinn Féin, the two largest parties, over welfare reforms imposed by Westminster has led to log jam and the threat of thousands of public sector job losses.
The British and Irish Governments have led efforts to resolve the stand-off, with Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers and Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan chairing the negotiations.
Mr Flanagan said: "The Secretary of State, Minister Sherlock and I met with the five executive parties this morning.
“Substantial progress has been made in negotiations over the past 24 hours. Intensive engagement continues.
“We remain firmly of the view that a successful and comprehensive outcome to this process will be in the best interests of the people of this island and are working to that end.”
