Delegates expressed deep concern about the impact of the global financial crisis on the economies of the British Isles, at the meeting of the British Irish Council in Scotland.

Chief Minister Tony Brown (pictured) and Health Minister Eddie Teare were among those who noted the value and importance of learning from, and co-operating on, measures taken and being considered by all BIC member administrations.

The main items for discussion were demography - the science of population statistics - and energy.

The Summit discussed the need to secure energy supplies for the future, and considered opportunities in renewable energy.

They included harvesting the offshore energy between the coasts of Scotland and Ireland, via a sub-sea grid.