Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Hain tonight set out the discussion areas for the province's politicians at crucial talks to restore devolution next week.
In a letter to party leaders, Mr Hain identified two key areas for agreement next week in St Andrew's, Scotland — support for policing and the rule of law, and changes to Northern Ireland's political institutions.
His letter told party leaders: "The talks in Scotland provide a real opportunity to work together to clear away remaining differences and doubts in these areas and for all parties to demonstrate their support for restoring the institutions.
"Both governments (the British and Irish) are committed to working with you to achieve that aim."
Hopes of a breakthrough at next week's talks have risen following the publication yesterday of the Independent Monitoring Commission's report, which said the IRA had moved away significantly from terrorism and was pursuing a political path.
British and Irish Government officials are hoping that the DUP will be able to give some signal next week that power sharing will take place.
But they are also looking to Sinn Fein to end its policy of refusing to endorse the Police Service of Northern Ireland and recognising it as the legitimate force of law and order.
