Durkan and Ahern to discuss impasse in peace process

SDLP leader Mark Durkan is due to meet the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, today to discuss the ongoing impasse in the Irish peace process.

Mr Durkan has already expressed his concern about the lack of movement in the North and has called on the Irish and British governments to continue implementing the aspects of the Good Friday Agreement that do not rely on the existence of the suspended institutions.

The SDLP leader is also expected to raise the Government’s planned citizenship referendum during today’s meeting.

Mr Durkan has criticised the Taoiseach’s failure to consult the Northern parties about the proposed constitutional amendment.

He has also said it sets a precedent for fundamental and unilateral changes to the Good Friday Agreement, a move that plays into the hands of the DUP.