The Taoiseach has had a lengthy telephone conversation with the British Prime Minister, Mr Tony Blair, about the ongoing problem of decommissioning and the establishment of the shadow executive, reports Maol Muire Tynan, Political Reporter.
A Government spokesman later said the two leaders had dealt with the issue of North/South bodies which, under the Belfast Agreement, are due to be identified and agreed by October 31st.
With the SDLP leader, Mr John Hume and the First Minister, Mr David Trimble, differing sharply over the importance of decommissioning, the disposal of paramilitary weapons also featured in the discussions between the Taoiseach and the Prime Minister.
Resolving the decommissioning dispute will also be raised in talks within a week between Mr Ahern and the Sinn Fein leadership. A Sinn Fein delegation is expected to have talks with the Taoiseach at Government Buildings within a week.
