North peace talks - Working relationship is possible

THE unfinished business which prevents the restoration of devolution in Northern Ireland, and consequently the re-instatement of the Executive and Assembly, requires what seems intrinsically implausible: agreement between Gerry Adams and Ian Paisley.

Since the institutions were suspended almost two years ago, the political landscape in the North has changed dramatically, with Sinn Féin and the Democratic Unionist Party emerging as the two dominant parties representing their communities.

Both parties must adopt a pragmatic approach to the key issues which remain to be addressed, if the crucial negotiations are to be a catalyst for progress.