Talks to reach deal on peace process go to the wire

Politicians in the North were last night locked in last-ditch negotiations to strike a deal on outstanding peace process issues.

The outcome of talks with Stormont’s five main parties on flags, parades, and dealing with the legacy of the Troubles was not expected until at least the early hours of this morning.

Talks chairman and former US diplomat Richard Haass insisted yesterday would be the last day of negotiations and early indications hinted that some form of settlement would be unveiled yesterday afternoon.