Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 January 2014
33. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to have further discussions with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and members of the Northern Ireland Executive on the urgent need to progress to a successful conclusion the proposals outlined by Ambassador Haass; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4785/14]
View answerThroughout the period of the Talks, I spoke to and met with all of the Parties, with Drs Haass and O’Sullivan and with the British Government on numerous occasions.
I have made clear to all participants and stakeholders the Government’s view that there is now a unique opportunity to make further progress towards advancing reconciliation and the creation of a truly reconciled and prosperous society in Northern Ireland. That remains the Government’s view and we will continue our engagement with the Northern Ireland Political Parties and the British Government to that end.
I welcome that very significant progress was made within the talks process over a short period on a number of the most difficult issues that face society in Northern Ireland. The priority now should be to safeguard and give practical effect to what has been achieved.
Since New Year, I have maintained contact with all of the Northern Ireland Executive party leaders and have made clear my intention of engaging closely with them as they seek to conclude their important work on what are some of the most divisive issues in Northern Ireland.
I welcome that the five parties in the NI Executive have been meeting regularly to discuss and agree the next steps.
The Government will play its role to the full in partnership with the NI Parties as they complete their work on an agreement.
In regard to specific contacts, I am in contact with the Northern Ireland party leaders, including the First Minister and deputy First Minister, and will meet with the First Minister today. I will also today be speaking with Richard Haass who continues to be supportive of the ongoing process. I remain in regular contact with the Secretary of State Theresa Villiers. I believe there is a shared sense of purpose on the part of both governments to see this process brought to an early conclusion.
