Ken Reid reports for UTV Live on the beginning of 1996's 'Proximity Talks' between the Northern Irish political parties at Castle Buildings, Stormont. Irish foreign minister Dick Spring and Northern Ireland secretary Sir Patrick Mayhew speak to the press afterwards, as does the SDLP's John Hume. The two main Unionist parties have not turned up on the first day, with Ian Paisley saying that he is willing to hold talks, but not at Stormont.

Meanwhile, a delegation from Sinn Fein turns up, expecting to be barred from entering the talks process. This turns out to be the case, and Gerry Adams speaks to the gathered press about the situation, which sees his party blocked from the process during a period when the IRA have resumed their campaign of violence.

An Ulster Television Production.