THE leaders of Ireland's main churches have told Tánaiste Simon Coveney of their "willingness and desire to assist" where needed to help restore devolvution to Northern Ireland.
The meeting at Iveagh House in Dublin follows meetings with the north's political parties last month, and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Karen Bradley earlier this month,.
The group included Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh Dr Richard Clarke, President of the Methodist Church Rev William Davison , Monsignor Joseph McGuinness - representing Archbishop Eamon Martin, Catholic Primate - Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland Rev Charles McMullen and Rev Brian Anderson, President of the Irish Council of Churches.
After the meeting, the group said: "The absence of devolved government in Northern Ireland (is) affecting many areas of community life, the delivery of public services and cross border co-operation.
"...We welcomed the opportunity to hear the Irish government’s assessment of the current situation.
"While not underestimating the challenges involved in moving forward, we emphasised the importance of dialogue and finding the space that encourages engagement and participation."