The British and Irish premiers have expressed cautious optimism that devolution can be restored to Northern Ireland.

Following a meeting with Tony Blair in Dublin on Sunday, Bertie Ahern indicated that progress was being made in talks that are due to continue this week.

"It is our assured sense that an outcome can be achieved that will allow restoration of these arrangements," Ahern said.

Tony Blair added that all parties would have to engage with the talks process for it to be successful.

"We can only do so much. We need a real willingness from the parties to put themselves on the line and step up to the mark," he said.

The two governments now hope to restore devolution by the autumn.