Following her meeting, Ms Villiers said:

The involvement of Northern Ireland’s church leaders and faith representatives in the debate about Northern Ireland’s future is welcome. I briefed them on the progress of the talks. I was also clear about the serious consequences if the parties fail to agree.

Finding a way forward will not been easy and I am therefore pleased the church leaders and faith representatives have committed to doing all they can to help. I also know that leaders from other areas of civil society in Northern Ireland are ready to offer similar support and I will remain in contact with them as this process unfolds.