The Taoiseach says the failure of the Haass negotiations to reach an agreement is a "disappointment" to the people of Northern Ireland.
Enda Kenny says he’s discussed the matter with British Prime Minister David Cameron this morning – and he’s urged all parties in the North to reflect on progress made during the talks.
The discussions which broke-up in the early hours of this morning – were aimed at reaching consensus on the past, parades and flags.
Dr Haass and his co-chair Prof Meghan O’Sullivan were brought to Northern Ireland in July by the first and deputy first ministers in an effort to resolve some of the most divisive issues that have hampered the Northern Ireland peace process.
The 5 main parties have been trying to reach a deal concerning the past, parades and flags but the overnight negotiations -on a seventh set of draft proposals put forward during the talks- broke up without agreement this morning.
The talks chairman Dr Richard Haass says he has not managed to secure consensus on a final set of proposals and he’s now urged all parties to implement initiatives where there is agreement.
Meanwhile, political leaders have been giving their reaction.
The Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore has expressed his disappointed that agreement was not reached saying that its’ not a step back but a step not yet taken’.
The Northern Ireland Secretary says it’s disappointing but, Theresa Villiers says this should not be seen as the end of the road in seeking to find a way forward.
And, the DUP’s Jeffrey Donaldson says progress has been made – but a number of difficulties remain.
The party leaders will now take time to reflect on the proposals and it’s expected more will be known over the next week
