Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 September 2017
185. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has spoken recently to the US Secretary of State regarding the appointment of a special envoy to Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40629/17]
View answerThe United States has provided immensely valuable support to the Peace Process over the last three decades and, as a co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement, the Government wishes to see this continue to the fullest extent.
At numerous critical moments, the friendship, encouragement and support of the United States Administration, Congress and people, has proved essential in providing all parties with confidence to move forward with the Peace Process, and this remains the case today. The United States is also an indispensable partner and friend in the ongoing work of the Peace Process to deepen reconciliation between communities and to realise fully the dividends of the peace.
In this regard, the Government would very much welcome the appointment of a new Special Envoy for Northern Ireland by the Administration, as part of its continuing support for the Peace Process.
The Government also welcomes and appreciates the bipartisan support recently conveyed to the US Administration by Members of the US Congressional Friends of Ireland group, for the appointment of a new US Special Envoy for Northern Ireland. Ireland continues to greatly value the support, friendship and engagement of the US Congress, on a bipartisan basis, for the Peace Process.
In the immediate period ahead, the Government looks forward to the continued support of the US Administration and Congress in encouraging the parties in Northern Ireland to take the necessary steps to ensure that the devolved power-sharing institutions of the Good Friday Agreement are re-established without delay.
