The intensive round of bilateral talks between the political parties at Stormont Castle concluded yesterday, writes Suzanne Breen. There were several meetings between various groups, but sources said most of the hard work had already been done and it was a case of going over minor details.
The parties will meet the talks chairman, Senator George Mitchell, on Monday to prepare for the review plenary on Tuesday, which will look at the progress that has taken place so far. The agenda and length of the review plenary will be decided on Monday. It is expected to last two days.
Meanwhile, it is believed the Ulster Unionists will propose a motion at the Northern Ireland Forum tomorrow calling for an inquiry into the 1970s arms crisis in the Republic. Sources said the UUP will ask for an investigation into the alleged involvement of Irish ministers in setting up the IRA.