Statement from the Secretary of State on engagement with parties

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Chris Heaton-Harris MP has this evening (Wednesday 13 December) chaired another plenary session with the four Executive parties at Hillsborough Castle.

Speaking later, he said: “I would like to thank the parties for their thorough and constructive engagement over the last three days.

“The Government has outlined a fair and generous package which could assist a returning Executive to stabilise its finances and protect public services.

“Over the course of our discussions, a number of points have been raised which require further clarification, including the need for firmer proposals from the parties for how a restored executive plans to deliver the transformation of public services.

“We will be continuing our dialogue with the parties on these issues over the coming days, with the single focus of seeing the return of a locally elected and accountable devolved government.”