Northern Ireland

Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 16 December 2016

Friday, 16 December 2016

Ceisteanna (269)

Brendan Smith

Ceist:

269. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the progress on the establishment of a civic forum in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40925/16]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

On 6 December, the First and deputy First Minister announced the formation of a civic advisory panel, which was provided for under the Stormont House and Fresh Start Agreements. The 6-person panel will consider specific issues relevant to the Executive’s Programme for Government and engage with civic society stakeholders. Reporting to the Executive, the panel may also propose subjects it wishes to consider.

I welcome the establishment of the civic advisory panel by the Northern Ireland Executive which fulfils a commitment under both the Stormont House and Fresh Start Agreements.