Pope hopeful of successful talks

Pope John Paul yesterday said he hoped for a successful outcome to the Northern Ireland talks. Speaking from his summer residence of Castelgandolfo, south of Rome, the Pope (77) highlighted Northern Ireland during his regular Sunday Angelus address, saying in English: "My thoughts turn with hope to the important talks due to be held this week in Northern Ireland. People of every sector of society there have shown an earnest and sincere desire for a peaceful solution to the long-standing conflict."