The Sunday Tribune has learned that at least two Sinn Fein Assembly members have expressed grave reservations about any change in policing policy. Republican sources said Geraldine Dougan, who represents South Derry and is related to the family of the late Dominic McGlinchey, had voiced strong opposition.

Doubts had also been expressed by Kathy Staunton from North Belfast, the sources said. Meanwhile, republican dissidents are planning a meeting in west Belfast to discuss the policing issue.

Adams held discussions with Orde and the Northern Secretary of State, Peter Hain, at Hillsborough Castle last week. A senior source told the Sunday Tribune: "Gerry told Orde he wasn't yet in a position to hold a special ard fheis.

"He said he could get a motion on policing through but with a slim majority."

The source continued that Adams said he "could command about 60% support and he didn't want an ard fheis unless he was sure of around 85%".

Orde yesterday denied that "a meeting" had taken place.

He told the Sunday Tribune that he had happened to be in Hillsborough Castle when Adams was meeting the British government and had a "fairly short conversation" with him.

When asked if Adams had discussed internal Sinn Fein difficulties with him, Orde said he didn't "remember any of that, " but he acknowledged the party was experiencing problems on the issue.

In comparison to Orde, a Sinn Fein spokesman confirmed a meeting had taken place. "Sinn Fein has been meeting with the British government since St Andrews to resolve the issues of policing and justice. Hugh Orde has attended a number of these meetings, " the source said.

However, he denied Adams had discussed internal Sinn Fein business.