Cowen in London for North talks

The Taoiseach is to travel to London today to hold talks with the British Prime Minister on the North.

Brian Cowen and Gordon Brown will be reviewing progress in the implementation of the outstanding aspects of the St. Andrews Agreement, with the devolution of justice and policing powers from Westminster to Stormont to top the agenda.

It follows Brian Cowen's meeting with the North's Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness in Tullamore, Co. Offaly at the weekend.

Afterwards Sinn Féin described the meeting as "useful and constructive" but reiterated its call for a date for the transfer to be agreed before Christmas.

Speaking ahead of today's talks Brian Cowen said he is fully committed to overcoming any remaining obstacles to ensure a better future for all of the people in the North.