Robinson: Big issues remain

Progress has been made towards a political deal on the three main outstanding peace process disputes in the North but big issues remain unresolved, Stormont’s First Minister has said.

As Peter Robinson gave his assessment of continuing negotiations between the Executive’s five coalition parties on a proposed agreement on flags, parades and the legacy of the past, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said he was more realistic than optimistic about the chances of a settlement before St Patrick’s Day in mid-March.