Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 October 2014
409. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding proposed changes to the status and powers to the Northern Ireland Executive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36514/14]
Amharc ar fhreagra410. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has concerns about the Northern Ireland Executive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36515/14]
Amharc ar fhreagra414. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has concerns regarding the workings of the Northern Ireland Executive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35605/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 409, 410 and 414 together.
Over the recent period, the Northern Ireland Executive has been faced with a number of challenges on which it has been difficult to find agreement. These include longstanding issues such as parades, flags and dealing with the past. It also includes more recent difficulties in relation to budgetary issues. The parties that comprise the Executive need to reach agreement on such issues to ensure the effective functioning of the Northern Ireland Executive into the future.
I am confident that the North’s political representatives will show the leadership needed to deliver comprehensive, fair and balanced solutions to the issues before them. This will require compromise and committed engagement to the talks process. The goal is to ensure that the North’s political institutions not only function, but flourish, to the benefit of all, as envisaged by the Good Friday Agreement. I am of the view that all party talks involving the Governments are required at this time to overcome the current political impasse within the Northern Ireland Executive.
Over the period ahead, I will remain in close ongoing contact with the Northern Ireland parties and with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland as preparations for the talks process continue, including agreeing an agenda for the talks. We fully support partnership Government in Northern Ireland and will work with the political parties to facilitate the resolution of current difficulties and legacy issues.
