Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 January 2017
153. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the possible assembly elections following the resignation of the deputy First Minister of Northern Island; his views on whether they can be deferred; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2041/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI regret the circumstances which have led to the decision of the deputy First Minister to resign his office. I also acknowledge the deputy First Minister’s contribution and leadership over the last decade within the power-sharing institutions.
It was clear, immediately following the resignation of the deputy First Minister, that the prospect of a resolution ahead of the triggering of an Assembly election were slim. However both Governments, in their capacity as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, made full use of the narrow window available to encourage that any avenues for resolution between the parties prior to an election be fully explored.
In the event, an Assembly election has been triggered and will be held on Thursday 2 March. It is important to emphasise that this eventuality is one covered by the legislation governing the devolved institutions in Northern Ireland. When parties in an administration cannot agree, an election is the consequence and the outcome of that is now for the electorate in Northern Ireland to determine. There is no legislative provision for deferral and I do not believe that such as step would have been helpful in the current circumstances.
In my discussions with each of the party leaders in Northern Ireland, I have emphasised the importance of all parties acting responsibly in word and deed during this election campaign, to prevent any long-term damage to the political institutions of the Agreement.
After the election, it will fall to the parties to form a power-sharing Executive and this will of course require a resolution to the issues which brought about the current situation. As these political difficulties are worked through in Northern Ireland, it is of the utmost importance that all parties bear in mind the principles of mutual respect, partnership and equality, which underpin the Good Friday Agreement, through which so much has been achieved.
As co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement, the Government will continue to work with the British Government and the political parties to support political stability, reconciliation and economic prosperity in Northern Ireland.
