Local peace talks underway in Belfast

Round-table talks are underway in east Belfast in an effort to avoid another night of sectarian rioting near the Catholic-Protestant interface.

The talks involve community workers and elected representatives from both sides of the religious divide, but Sammy Wilson, a local DUP councillor, has refused to attend because Sinn Fein was also invited.

Gary Mason of the East Belfast Mission said he hopes the dialogue will reduce tensions and violence in the area, but admitted that it will take time to rebuild trust.

Meanwhile, Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly has called for a new peace wall to be built in north Belfast to prevent loyalists and nationalists from attacking each other across the current barrier.

Mr Kelly said the move is necessary to protect Catholics living in the New Lodge area from loyalists living in nearby Tigers Bay.