Latest: Taoiseach reiterates opposition to direct rule during phone call with Theresa May

Update 5.52pm: The Taoiseach has told the British Prime Minister that the Irish Government does not want to see a return to direct rule in Northern Ireland.

Update 8pm: The Taoiseach has told the British Prime Minister that the Irish Government does not want to see a return to direct rule in Northern Ireland.

Leo Varadkar spoke to Theresa May by phone this evening, following his meeting with Sinn Féin leaders Mary Lou McDonald and Michelle O'Neill in Dublin.