A retired Canadian judge who is to investigate allegations of collusion in some of the most controversial murders of the Northern Ireland troubles tonight said he hopes to complete his investigations within 18 months.
Mr Peter Cory, 76, flew into Belfast last night on his first visit to the province since his appointment last month.
His investigations will cover the murders of Robert Hamill, Rosemary Nelson, Billy Wright Chief Superintendent Harry Breen and Superintendent Bob Buchanan, Pat Finucane, Lord Justice and Lady Gibson.
Mr Cory said he had not set a target date for a completion of his task - but was optimistic it would be within the initial time-frame.
"One government has estimated a year, one government longer than that but until I get into it, it is impossible to tell," he said.
"I do know how terribly important this is to everybody and how anxious they are to get this done and I'll certainly do my utmost to work as quickly and expeditiously as possible," he added.
"I don't think I am being overly optimistic in that I can get it done within the time-frame."
Northern Ireland Secretary of State John Reid promised Mr Cory his full support.
"We will accept the recommendations as to further action from the independent international judge who has been appointed and that is Mr Justice Cory," he said. "He will get the resources he needs. They will be provided either by himself with our support or by ourselves or the Irish Government."
Mr Cory's arrival fulfilled the commitment made by the British and Irish Government following the Weston Park talks last summer.
Mr Cory is the second Canadian to play a major part in the Northern Ireland peace process recently, following General John De Chastelain's work with the independent international commission on decommissioning.
PA