The Taoiseach and other members of the Cabinet are holding talks with the Northern executive in Armagh today.

Attempts to finalise a deal on issues such as the budget and welfare reform and attempts to resolve long-standing issues like flags and parades will be discussed at the North South ministerial Council.

Last night the former British Prime Minister Sir John Major urged the parties to do a deal, saying "talking produces agreement".

Mr Major was in Dublin to accept the Business and Finance outstanding contribution to Ireland Award given to him and the late former Taoiseach, Albert Reynolds: