Under cross-examination during her libel action against the Irish Examiner, Orla Purcell claimed EY was instructed by an IPI oversight committee to make findings that certain allegations against her could be substantiated.

The Stormont Executive will meet early on Thursday morning ahead of the recall of the Assembly at noon.

The relatively short extension suggests the Government is hopeful that progress can be made in the coming fortnight.

The Stormont institutions have been suspended for almost two years because of a DUP boycott in protest at post-Brexit trading arrangements.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said he believes a deal could be done by the end of next week.