All party political negotiations in Belfast have ended in stalemate.

Seven hours of overnight talks failed to produce an agreement to deal with unresolved peace process issues in Northern Ireland.

Intense discussions involving the five parties of the Stormont Executive to find consensus on disputes over flags, parades and the legacy of the Troubles ended at around 4am.

Talks suspended 4 Christmas. Good progress made. Disappointed agreement not concluded. Issues aren't going away. Nollag shona daoibh. Xo

— Gerry Adams (@GerryAdamsSF) December 24, 2013

Former US diplomat Richard Haass chaired the negotiations which centred on the controversial issues of parades, flags and the legacy of past conflict.

The flags issue proved the most contentious, with a fourth draft document of proposals brought under scrutiny.

Belfast-based security correspondent Alan Murray says there is little in the way of common ground among the parties.