Murphy due to announce significant proposals

The Northern Secretary, Paul Murphy, is expected to announce later today a number of significant proposals to break the current logjam in the peace process.

He is due to announce the new initiatives when he addresses the 25th plenary session of the British Irish Inter-parliamentary body shortly after 4pm this afternoon.

He is expected to outline what the IRA and UUP should do to restart the peace process.

It's expected that difficulties surrounding Sinn Fiin participation in the Northern Ireland Police Board and district partnership will also be addressed.

Close on 60 politicians from Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man and Jersey are in Manchester to discuss issues of common concern and interest.