Adams blasts talks delay

The postponement tonight of planned meetings between the Irish and British governments showed an “almost casual attitude” towards the peace process, it was claimed.

Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams said it was unacceptable for both governments to cancel crucial political negotiations.

“It is simply not good enough for the two governments to unilaterally cancel expected talks in London next week,” the West Belfast MP said.

“Tonight’s announcement is an example of the ad hoc and almost casual attitude of London and Dublin towards the process.

“It follows on from the Irish government decision to run with a referendum on citizenship and the expected IMC Report tomorrow. Both are in contravention of the Good Friday Agreement.”

The planned talks were to involve all Northern Ireland political parties in London following the publication tomorrow of the Independent Monitoring Commission’s report on paramilitary activity.

A Downing Street spokesman said no date had officially been set for the talks. But they were widely expected to take place at Lancaster House next week.

British government sources have reportedly claimed more work is required.

It is hoped the discussions, aimed at breaking the deadlock in the peace process, will take place before European elections in June.