The Northern Secretary has confirmed the current round of talks to restore power-sharing will be suspended for Easter.

James Brokenshire is also warning of a snap election, or a return to direct rule, if parties fail to form a government by early May.

Meanwhile, the Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan says "some progress" is being made in Northern Ireland.

James Brokenshire previously indicated negotiations would not be permitted to continue past Easter.

Issues such as legacy and an Irish Language Act appear to remain the major sticking points in the talks.

The newly appointed leader of the Ulster Unionist Party Robin Swann says direct rule would be a retrograde step: