The names will be different, but otherwise it could be EU summit time again at Dublin Castle. The biggest security operation in the capital since EU leaders debated the future of economic and monetary union in December 1996 will be in place in and around Dublin Castle for the next three days. And when Messrs Trimble, Adams, Ervine and others make their historic entrance to the Castle Yard this morning, they will meet a media scrum to match that seen when the guests included Messrs Kohl, Major and Chirac.
At least 12 television stations, including the US network CNN, will cover the event, which is likely to be dominated at least today by the threat to expel Sinn Fein from the talks. "There is absolutely huge media interest," said a spokesman for the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Yesterday gardai with sniffer dogs checked the entire castle complex, while members of the Garda underwater unit searched the area's sewers. No streets will be closed during the three days of talks, but parking restrictions will remain in place until Thursday at 6 a.m.
Until then, no parking will be allowed in South Great George's Street, Upper Stephen Street, Great Ship Street, Little Ship Street, Werburgh Street, Castle Street, Lord Edward Street, Palace Street, Dame Street from George's Street to Cork Hill, Dame Lane and Exchange Court.
While some delays can be expected as delegations are escorted to and from the castle, Garda sources said there should be no serious disruption of traffic.
The talks are due to begin at 11 a.m., but business will begin much earlier. The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Andrews, and the Minister of State, Ms Liz O'Donnell, will meet their British counterparts, Dr Mo Mowlam and Mr Paul Murphy, before the talks proper begin. The talks chairman, Senator George Mitchell, flies into Dublin from the US this morning and is expected to arrive at Dublin Castle at 10.30 a.m.
