The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) today agreed to First Minister Peter Robinson’s plan for cross-party talks to tackle issues dividing the Executive.
But UUP leader Sir Reg Empey said there must be an end to high profile negotiations in London or Dublin.
Today’s decision follows criticism from Mr Empey that the leaders of the four parties that make up the cabinet had not formally met since devolution was established in May last year.
“This morning the UUP met to discuss the invitation from Peter Robinson and we broadly welcome the recognition from the First Minister that dialogue needs to take place within the Assembly to look at the important issues which are currently facing Northern Ireland,” he said.
“As well as looking at routine issues, the Executive must also address issues such as increased energy and fuel bills, education, water bills and devolution of policing and justice - these can only be addressed and solved through dialogue between the Northern Ireland political parties and not at grandstanding meetings in London or Dublin.”
Following the meeting of the UUP Assembly Group at Stormont this morning Mr Empey said he would be accepting the invitation from the DUP Leader.
The transfer of policing and justice powers to the Assembly and issues such as an Irish Language Act threatened to derail the Executive last week.
Following talks between the DUP and Sinn Féin in Downing Street, Mr Robinson said he would like to see all four government parties taking part in talks to find a solution to outstanding issues.
Sinn Féin could have prevented Mr Robinson succeeding Ian Paisley as First Minister by refusing to re-nominate Martin McGuinness to share the office.
The tactic could have forced elections, but both parties emerged from discussions in London committed to finding a way forward and seeking to include their Executive partners, the UUP and SDLP.