Assessments of republican intentions following the Ard-Fheis clashed. One confident BBC Radio Ulster voice proclaimed on air that Sinn Féin looked ready to campaign in the referendum for a ‘yes' vote in the north, a ‘no' in the south. Could well be right, a senior SF'er confirmed solemnly. And pigs might fly, a second SF'er told another broadcaster.

Mo Mowlam's presence was regarded as crucial to the success of the talks. She may be out of the limelight but she hasn't gone away.