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25/05/2006
NI political parties invited to join 'devolution' committee
The Northern ireland Secretary of State, Peter Hain, has today invited the main political parties to sit on an Assembly Committee in a bid to restore devolution.
It is understood that each of the main parties, the DUP, Sinn Fein, UUP and SDLP, will be given three places on the panel, with the Alliance party being given two.
Speaking earlier, the Secretary of State said: "The failure of the Assembly to form an Executive on Monday was not unexpected, but it underlines the need for all parties to work together on the necessary preparations if devolution is to be achieved before the Assembly runs out of time on 24 November. I have spoken to all the parties in recent days and all recognise in principle the value of such a committee."
Mr Hain added that he had asked the Speaker, Eileen Bell, to convene the first meeting on June 6, and that he had recommended that it would be very beneficial for all parties to attend.
Mr Hain continued: "I hope that this committee will use the month of June productively to scope the work that needs to be done in preparation for Government, before the Prime Minister, the Taoiseach, Dermot Ahern and I return to Stormont for intensive talks with the parties before the summer break. At that meeting we need to set a clear time-line for addressing these issues."
The Secretary of State has asked the parties to indicate by the time of the next Assembly Business Committee meeting on Tuesday May 30, whether they are willing to take part.
(EF/SP)
It is understood that each of the main parties, the DUP, Sinn Fein, UUP and SDLP, will be given three places on the panel, with the Alliance party being given two.
Speaking earlier, the Secretary of State said: "The failure of the Assembly to form an Executive on Monday was not unexpected, but it underlines the need for all parties to work together on the necessary preparations if devolution is to be achieved before the Assembly runs out of time on 24 November. I have spoken to all the parties in recent days and all recognise in principle the value of such a committee."
Mr Hain added that he had asked the Speaker, Eileen Bell, to convene the first meeting on June 6, and that he had recommended that it would be very beneficial for all parties to attend.
Mr Hain continued: "I hope that this committee will use the month of June productively to scope the work that needs to be done in preparation for Government, before the Prime Minister, the Taoiseach, Dermot Ahern and I return to Stormont for intensive talks with the parties before the summer break. At that meeting we need to set a clear time-line for addressing these issues."
The Secretary of State has asked the parties to indicate by the time of the next Assembly Business Committee meeting on Tuesday May 30, whether they are willing to take part.
(EF/SP)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
