Church Leaders urge Parties to Reach Settlement in Northern Ireland

(28 Jan 10 - RV) The Leaders of Ireland's four main churches have urged all the political parties to "redouble their efforts to reach a settlement" concerning devolution of policing and justice powers. See full text of joint statement below.
In summary: Cardinal Seán Brady, Archbishop Alan Harper, Presbyterian Moderator Dr Stafford Carson and Methodist President Rev Donald Ker have put on record their "admiration for the commitment of all parties engaged in the talks to resolve the issues surrounding the devolution of policing and justice powers to the NI Assembly."
The Church Leaders state their belief that "the people of Northern Ireland expect their representatives to ensure that agreement is reached," and that "there is an overwhelming desire throughout Northern Ireland for continued political progress and for the peace process to be sustained."
In conclusion the leaders assure all the participants of their continued prayers.
We spoke to Cardinal Sean Brady, Archbishop of Armagh, Primate of All Ireland: