Talks ‘process’ was simply the worst
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Need a massive change in attitude from the two largest parties
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There could be a period of prolonged
Tom Elliott MP said:
"The promises of no return to the status quo have been proven empty by a talks 'process' that lacked any structure and had not seen a round table discussion between the five parties as the deadline loomed. It was a clear indication that the bigger parties are even more dismissive of the smaller ones than ever, and demonstrates their inability to move away from their old ways.
"We have engaged in every set of recent negotiations from Haass O'Sullivan to today. This was simply the worst.
“Unless there is a massive u-turn in terms of attitude from the two largest parties, then Northern Ireland could be in for a period of prolonged drift.
”I understand the Secretary of State took the attitude that the blockages to progress were devolved matters and therefore allowed the DUP and Sinn Féin to take the lead, with the Government offering support. It looks like HM Government will have to take the lead at 4pm tomorrow and that is a further indictment of the lead parties at Stormont."