New Northern Secretary John Reid is to begin a series of introductory meetings with the North's political parties today as he attempts to find a way forward for the peace process.
The former Scottish Secretary has already had talks with First and Deputy First Ministers, David Trimble and Seamus Mallon and has spent the rest of his time since his appointment on Wednesday reading up on the current situation.
He must deal with a conflicting set of unionist and nationalist wish-lists, with the UUP pushing for moves on IRA decommissioning and Sinn Fein and the SDLP seeking reform of the new Police Bill.