US envoy to continue in his role

US special envoy Mitchell Reiss is to continue his role

The United States special envoy to Northern Ireland, Mitchell Reiss, is to continue in his role despite changes at the US state department.

The BBC understands that Mr Reiss will maintain his responsibilities despite the departure of Colin Powell.

Dr Reiss was a close ally of Mr Powell and there was speculation that the new US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice would remove him.

He is responsible for leading the US role in the political process.

Dr Reiss took up his post just over a year ago after replacing Richard Haass as director for policy planning.