TALKS aimed at restoring devolution are expected to move up a gear on Monday, with the leaders of the main parties schedule to meet every day next week.
There had been concern among some parties that the intensification of the negotiations signalled recently by Tanáiste Simon Coveney has failed to materialise.
The two governments had hoped to have the talks, which began in early May, concluded by the end of this month, fearing the onset of the marching season would see the process stall.
A meeting of the all-party co-ordination committee, which sets the agenda for the forthcoming week, yesterday decided to hold a series of leaders' meetings every day next week.
The leaders and their respective teams, alongside representatives from the two governments, are expected to consider the findings of the various working groups examining issues related to a restored executive.
While there is little indication that the parties have yet been involved in serious negotiations, the two governments have been optimistic in their assessment of the prospects for agreement.
Sinn Féin's ard chomhairle will meet in Dublin today to discuss the talks process and the recent elections.
