Alan Farrell
Question:148. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the recent meeting of the British-Irish Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33246/21]
View answerThursday, 24 June 2021
Questions (148)
Written answers
Alongside the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste, I attended the 35th British Irish Council Summit on Friday 11 June, hosted in Enniskillen by then First Minister Arlene Foster and deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill.
The Summit was attended by the Northern Ireland Executive and all other member administrations, with some representatives attending virtually, including the Welsh First Minister, Mark Drakeford, Scottish First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon and Guernsey Chief Minister, Peter Ferbrache.
Making full use of the East-West institutions established by the Good Friday Agreement is more important than ever post-Brexit, and the value of the BIC was clearly demonstrated at the recent Summit.
This was an important opportunity for engagement across these islands, and the central topic of discussion was the impact of the pandemic, with all member administrations highlighting the value of working together, sharing learnings and working to ensure a sustainable and equitable recovery, including by maintaining progress on improved digital connectivity.
Administrations articulated concerns regarding ongoing COVID-19 challenges, including the Delta variant, with discussion focusing on continued cooperation and coordination, including with regard to travel restrictions.
Latest political developments, including in relation to Brexit, and the ongoing work and future of the Council were also discussed. It was Arlene Foster’s last official engagement as First Minister and I and other colleagues paid tribute to her contribution to public service.
The British Government was represented by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Michael Gove, and Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Brandon Lewis, who both attended in person and with whom I had the chance to exchange views and perspectives on issues of mutual interest, including Brexit and the Northern Ireland Protocol.
The next British Irish Council Summit, due to be held in November, will be hosted by Wales.