But it has always been clear that no binding agreement can be reached without the support of the Ulster Unionists, Northern Ireland's largest party.

ECONOMIST: Northern Ireland

Addressing his party's annual conference on Saturday, Ulster Unionist leader Northern Ireland and former first minister David Trimble said such talks would have no impact on whether the IRA would disband, a key requirement for his party's return to the power-sharing administration with Sinn Fein.

BBC: McGuinness warns of political vacuum

Earlier, Northern Ireland First Minister Peter Robinson said the Ulster team had "lifted the spirits of people in Northern Ireland".

BBC: Thousands celebrate Ulster rugby triumph