It seems talks in Belfast on some outstanding issues in Northern Ireland are no closer to reaching agreement.
The all-party talks are due to begin today to try to seal a pre-Christmas agreement on controversial parades.
It is understood that a new authority for dealing with parades is believed to be among the proposals.
A separate process may also be recommended to try and find accord on flags.
Serious loyalist violence broke out a year ago after restrictions were imposed on the flying of the Union flag from Belfast City Hall.
The former US diplomat Richard Haas was recruited by the Stormont Executive to make recommendations on dealing with issues left outstanding from the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.
Dr. Haas will chair five-party discussions between politicians. He has been tweeting about his hopes for the day.
long day, but not yet where we need to be. much to be settled before christmas; wont be easy, but surely worth it for #NorthernIreland
— Richard N. Haass (@RichardHaass) December 23, 2013
While yesterday he said he was hard at work.
up & working on new draft, integrating as best we can suggestions from parties. goal to produce/circulate new (3rd) draft early afternoon
— Richard N. Haass (@RichardHaass) December 22, 2013
But Belfast-based security correspondent Alan Murray told Breakfast here on Newstalk that the issue of flags remains the biggest obstacle in the talks.
Speaking on Friday, Dr. Haass said the talks could prove monumental for Northern Ireland.
