McGuinness and Cowen hold talks

Brian Cowen is the new Fianna Fáil leader.

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness will meet the new leader of Fianna Fáil and incoming taoiseach Brian Cowen in Belfast later.

Mr Cowen will succeed Bertie Ahern as taoiseach on 6 May.

Sinn Féin's Mr McGuinness said the meeting would "provide an opportunity to discuss a number of important issues.

"Key amongst these is the transfer of powers on policing and justice," he said.

"I will also update Mr Cowen on the ongoing preparations for the Investment Conference scheduled for Belfast in May."

Mr Ahern announced at the start of the month he was stepping down, amid on-going inquiries about his finances at a tribunal into planning corruption.

Mr Cowen has been his expected successor for a long time.