Cowen regrets 'complicating' NI situation

Minister for Foreign Affairs Brian Cowen has expressed regret for complicating the peace process after journalists got possession of a sensitive document left behind by one of his officials yesterday.

The document, which expressed concern about the attitude of the UUP and said the IRA is still recruiting and purchasing weapons, was left in a room in Farmleigh House following a meeting between Mr Cowen and Northern Secretary Paul Murphy.

In a statement released today, the Foreign Affairs Minister said the incident should not have occurred and he said he regrets that it has potentially complicated the already difficult situation in the North.

An investigation into the matter is continuing.