Deal 'can still be reached' to save power-sharing

Intensive talks are ongoing between the parties as a last-minute agreement is sought.

In a statement as the 4pm deadline for the talks looms, Secretary of State James Brokenshire and Dublin's Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney did not hint that there would be an extension to these discussions.

Mr Brokenshire said a number of issues remain outstanding.

"I believe a resolution can be found,'' he said.

"And I'm urging the parties to continue focusing all of their efforts on achieving this. The UK Government will work with the parties toward their critical objective of forming an executive.

"But I've made clear to party leaders that it is for them to reach agreement.

"That prize remains achievable and remains my focus."

The Assembly had been due to met at 12pm to try and nominate ministers, but some parties argued that should be pushed back to 2pm.

The DUP rejected that proposal though and the matter will be discussed at 1pm by party whips.

Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney said the last three days of talks were intensive and that he was encouraged by the discussions.

"There still remain gaps to be bridged on some key issues,'' he said.

"Like the Secretary of State I believe that an agreement is still within reach, an agreement that would allow a powersharing executive to be formed on a sustainable basis.''

Mr Coveney said all parties are committed to the successful operations of all the political institutions in Belfast and everyone was convinced devolution was the best way to deliver for the people of Northern Ireland.

"With courage and goodwill this can be achieved and everybody here is continuing to focus on a positive outcome,'' he said.

One of the main sticking points is an Irish Language Act, which Sinn Féin have presented as a red-line issue.

However the DUP favour a broader act that would be more of a cultural act.