Taoiseach travels to Armagh for talks with Northern Executive

The Taoiseach and other members of the Cabinet will hold talks with the Northern Executive in Armagh later.

Attempts to finalise a deal on issues such as the budget and welfare reform and attempts to resolve long-standing issues like flags and parades will be discussed at the North South Ministerial Council.

Last night, former British Prime Minister John Major urged the parties to do a deal, saying "talking produces agreement".

Mr Major was in Dublin to accept the Business and Finance Outstanding Contribution to Ireland Award given to him and also posthumously to the former Taoiseach, Albert Reynolds.