The Rev Ian Paisley can advance the issue of policing in Northern Ireland if he gives a clear signal that there will be power sharing, Sinn Fein MP Martin McGuinness stressed tonight.
As parties took part in a hectic round of meetings with Prime Minister Tony Blair and Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Mr McGuinness emerged from the talks insisting Sinn Fein could not move on policing without the DUP agreeing to form a devolved government featuring Sinn Fein.
"I think that there is no doubt that a majority of unionists and loyalists want to see their leaders working in partnership with ourselves and the SDLP for a better future for the children," the mid-Ulster MP said.
"I certainly think that a deal can be done but I would like to hear Ian Paisley say that he is ready to go into government with the Sinn Fein leadership. I would like to hear Ian Paisley face up to the reality for example as we major on the issue of policing that the issue of policing has as much to do with him as it has to do with the Sinn Fein leadership.
"The transfer of (policing and justice) powers (from Westminster to a future Stormont government) is of critical importance."
Earlier Mr Blair and Mr Ahern told the parties that they had to strike a deal by the British and Irish Governments deadline of November 24th for a breakthrough. Mr Blair, in particular, insisted this would be the last intensive talks process and it was time for a decision.
PA