Negotiations are over – Sinn Fein
SPECULATION is growing that Ulster’s political parties are edging towards a political deal.
Speaking on Thursday at Parliament Buildings, Sinn Fein Junior Minister Gerry Kelly said drawn-out negotiations over the devolution of policing and the parades issue were over as far as his party were concerned.
Earlier, Irish foreign minister Micheal Martin revealed a deal between the DUP and Sinn Fein was “very close” in his view.
The focus is now on the DUP, with leader Peter Robinson expected to reconvene a meeting of his Assembly party to seek consent to move forward.
Earlier this week, it was reported a significant minority of DUP MLAs voted against the terms of the deal.
Peter Robinson has since held a series of talks with Sinn Fein and the governments at Hillsborough Castle.
Sinn Fein have ruled out any further talks.
Mr Kelly said: “The negotiations have come to a conclusion.
“We believe that it is a positive conclusion and we believe that it is the basis on which to move forward.”
There were also reports on Thursday that any devolution date for justice powers to Stormont could be brought forward to April rather than May.
Alliance MLA David Ford said his party would welcome such a development.
“It would be very positive if justice powers could be devolved as early as April, because the sooner powers are transferred, the sooner real stability can be created within the Stormont Executive,” he said.
“Devolution should, and could, be all about delivery instead of deadlock.”
Mr Robinson resumed his role as Northern Ireland First Minister on Wednesday after receiving legal opinion, raising hopes of progress in the search for a deal to save the power-sharing government.
The DUP had temporarily stepped down from the role following allegations concerning his wife’s financial affairs.
