Mallon and Trimble clash over Sinn Fein ministers
The row over the banning of Sinn Fein ministers from North-South meetings is continuing to escalate with First Minister David Trimble and his deputy Seamus Mallon at loggerheads over the issue.
Mr Mallon is accusing the UUP leader of blocking the ministers from attending the meetings for party political reasons.
Yesterday Mr Trimble vowed to step up sanctions on Sinn Fein unless republicans start to decommission.
He has also signalled his attention to appeal a court decision that his ban on the meetings is unlawful.
Deputy First Minister Seamus Mallon says Sinn Fein has a right to be at the meetings.
For its part Sinn Fein believe Mr Trimble is trying to ensure the UUP is not working with its ministers when the North goes to the polls.
