SDLP in talks with Irish premier

Mark Durkan led a party delegation to meet Brian Cowen

SDLP leader Mark Durkan has led a party delegation to meet Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen in Dublin.

The meeting focused on a range of issues, including the devolution of policing and justice.

He said the SDLP wanted to "maximise the potential of the devolution project and the north-south bodies".

"The SDLP once again reiterated our position that a North-South approach remains the road-map for a better future for all the people of Ireland."

Mr Durkan said "North-South business should not be closed down and or pared back to suit different parties".

"We noted our deep concern that the whole North-South project has been frustrated in number of areas since the restoration of political institutions. The DUP has been culpable while Sinn Fein has been compliant," he said.

Mr Durkan said they emphasised "that the devolution of justice and policing powers must take sooner rather than later".

"There is no room for any political party to take its eye off the ball. It is critically important to the devolution project that we get over the line on this issue," he said.

The delegation also met Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny and Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore.