First Minister Mr David Trimble and Deputy First Minister Mr Mark Durkan warned against expecting an immediate breakthrough in efforts to end the Holy Cross school protest in north Belfast.
Speaking ahead of their meeting today with the loyalist Glenbryn residents to discuss the 12-week long blockade, the First Minister said: "We would be delighted if the issue was resolved today.
"But to try to create the impression that there's something going to happen immediately tonight when we are seeing one group on an issue that involves a range of groups would not actually be helpful".
Mr Durkan also cautioned against placing too much anticipation on the talks. "If people have expectations that there are guarantees that can be given and things that can be delivered in the course of one meeting, then that simply isn't how these issues can be dealt with".
At the meeting residents are expected to tell Mr Trimble and Mr Durkan what they want in return for calling an end to the picket.
Among their demands is a call for CCTV to be introduced, along with road-calming measures and increased security in the Upper Ardoyne area.
Earlier the Holy Cross school run passed off peacefully as Catholic children were escorted by parents up the Ardoyne Road.