Controversial plans to deal with the legacy of the Troubles are to be examined by a group of Westminster MPs, it was announced today.

Foreign Affairs Minister Micheál Martin says the Government will be taking its time before responding to this week's report on how to address the legacy of the Troubles in the North.

The North’s political parties were challenged tonight to back unprecedented proposals aimed at healing the sectarian wounds left after decades of violence.

Groups involved in the North's Troubles could apologise for their role and pledge never to use violence again as part of an ambitious five-year reconciliation plan unveiled today.