The Northern Ireland Secretary of State has said the result of the election has been an endorsement for devolution.
Speaking this afternoon, James Brokenshire said he would be speaking with local party leaders and the Irish Govenment to plot a way head.
"This election has demonstrated the clear desire by the overwhelming majority of people in Northern Ireland for inclusive devolved government. I congratulate all of those who have been elected.
"Everyone now has a shared responsibility to engage intensively in the short period of time that is available to us, to ensure that a strong and stable administration is established.
"Northern Ireland has made great strides forward over the past two decades. All of us must continue the work of building a stable, peaceful and prosperous Northern Ireland that works for everyone, based on the strong foundations of the Belfast Agreement and its successors.
"It is with this positive intent that the UK Government approaches the days ahead. I will be speaking to party leaders during the course of today and remaining in contact with the Irish Government."
Last month Sinn Féin northern leader Michelle O'Neill said they would oppose any attempt to have Mr Brokenshire chair post election negotiations, branding him "partisan".
"His one-sided partisan view means he cannot be an honest broker in negotiations," she said.
"I think the British government have continually failed to live up to their responsibilities as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, they have pandered to unionism time and time again, they have shown and demonstrated a one-sided approach when it comes to the issues of legacy."
