McGuinness to brief US authorities on North

SINN FÉIN chief negotiator Martin McGuinness is travelling to the US today to brief government representatives there on the most recent developments in the Northern peace process.

Mr McGuinness will be accompanied by the party’s representative to the US, Rita O’Hare.

The pair will meet with officials in the White House, members of Congress as well as Irish- American groups.

Meanwhile, Justice Minister Michael McDowell has reiterated his claim that Gerry Adams, Martin McGuinness and Martin Ferris have stepped down from the IRA army council in anticipation of the paramilitary organisation’s long-awaited statement on its future.

Mr Adams, Mr McGuinness and Mr Ferris have all denied vehemently that they are members of the IRA army council.