North leaders dismiss southern role row

The North’s political leaders have dismissed controversy over the Irish Government’s role in new Northern Ireland peace talks as a frenzied "much ado about nothing".

Both Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness played down reported tension among some unionists about Dublin’s part in resolving issues on parades, flags and the past.

Speaking at the latest North South Ministerial Council, First Minister and Democratic Unionist leader Mr Robinson said there was no issue as far as unionists were concerned.