News

Row could cut short US trip

PETER Robinson and Martin McGuinness flew to the US yesterday although their trip is expected to be cut short due to the row over welfare reform.

A joint meeting with US President Barack Obama in Washington next week is also in doubt.

The Stormont leaders were due to take part in a major investment drive that in addition to taking in the St Patrick's Day celebrations in Washington would have included a visit to California.

It is now thought that both Mr Robinson and Mr McGuinness will return to the north later today to take part in crisis talks aimed at rescuing the devolved institutions.

DUP sources have indicated that the first minister sees little point in the Washington meeting in the absence of an agreement.

It remains unclear whether Mr McGuinness will join next week's St Patrick's day celebrations in Washington.