British and Irish governments may intervene in the North as a last resort

An intervention may be needed if political parties in the North cannot reach an agreement in the Haass talks, the Tánaiste has warned.

Eamon Gilmore said the Irish and British governments would only step in as a last resort.

"We want those talks to succeed, and both the Irish and the British government will work together to support the parties in encouraging them to get agreement, and implement what has been set down in the Haass document," he said.

"Now, clearly, if that doesn't succeed, the two governments have a responsibility, because we're the co-guarantors of the agreements."

The five parties in the North's executive have so far been unable to agree on the talks, which deal with legacy issues following on from the troubles.

They are due to meet again on Tuesday, to consider the proposals.

SOURCE-IRISH NEWS