The talks will have two objectives.

First, to secure a coalition agreement to form the basis of the formation of a new Executive. Second, to address the implementation of outstanding issues from previous Agreements.

In a shared approach, the UK government and Irish government have agreed this phase of talks will be best supported by an intensive process to drive progress.

This includes:

• An agreed agenda;
• A structure of bilateral meetings;
• Regular roundtables; and
• A coordination mechanism across all the issues.

The talks will be conducted in accordance with the well-established three stranded approach.