Another deadline for the restoration of power-sharing in Northern Ireland passed at midnight without a deal.
Technically, that should trigger fresh elections, however Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton Harris says he won't set a date just yet.
Efforts are continuing between EU, Irish and UK officials over the Brexit protocol, which the DUP is demanding changes to, although there's renewed optimism a compromise will soon be achieved.
Brian Feeney, Columnist with the Irish News, says even if there is a deal, another election is likely. "There is no way the DUP are going to go into an Executive having not succeeded in getting their requirements met.
"And, then fight the council elections in May having gone into an Executive, and in affect recognised the Protocol, and accepted a deal they said they wouldn't accept," he added.
