Ahern: September talks 'last chance'

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has said this September’s talks on the North will be the last chance to restore devolved government for the foreseeable future.

Mr Ahern also said he is hopeful of progress, but not overly optimistic.

The talks are due to take place between September 16 and 18.

Speaking on local radio this morning, Mr Ahern said: “The British election looks like being next summer and that means we are unlikely to see progress in 2005.

"If we don’t crack it in September, I think that’s what we’re facing and that ultimately will turn into a lot of tension in a lot of areas.

"It’s not that I’m optimistic about September, but I’m afraid to be pessimistic.”