Hain promises 'hands-on' approach

New Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Hain insisted today he would have a direct, hands-on role in trying to bring devolution back permanently to the province and cement the peace process.

New Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Hain insisted today he would have a direct, hands-on role in trying to bring devolution back permanently and cement the peace process.

After his first walkabout around Belfast City Centre since taking over the job from Paul Murphy, Mr Hain, who is also the Secretary of State for Wales, insisted the post had not been downgraded.