Mrs Foster describes Sinn Fein as "crocodiles" as she insists she will not agree to an Irish Language Act. Mr Brokenshire gives the parties another few days to settle their differences, setting July 3 as the latest cut-off point. Mr Brokenshire says he will reflect on the Government's next steps as the talks are effectively put in cold storage over the summer marching season. NovemberIn a significant step towards direct rule, Mr Brokenshire sets Stormont's 2017/18 budget at Westminster. Mary Lou McDonald is formally elected the new Sinn Fein president.

Source: Irish Examiner February 12, 2018 10:41 UTC