Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 March 2018
98. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to resume talks between the Irish and British Governments and the political parties in Northern Ireland in relation to the need to have the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive restored; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14762/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraOver the course of many months, the Irish and British Governments, as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, have worked tirelessly to support and facilitate the parties in their efforts to form an Executive. The devolved, power-sharing institutions of the Good Friday Agreement are the best means for achieving accountable, representative decision-making for all the people of Northern Ireland. The electorate in Northern Ireland affirmed their support for power-sharing through the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement in May 1998 and have provided a mandate to the political parties to form an Executive and Assembly. Everyone agrees that devolved power-sharing institutions are in the best interests of the people of Northern Ireland and the Government continues to work with the British Government and the parties in Northern Ireland to support that outcome. Unfortunately, to date, it has not proved possible to reach an agreement on the formation of an Executive, despite intensive engagement. In light of this, the Government has been working with the British Government to consider means by which we can support the political process, in accordance with the Agreement, in the period ahead. We are considering all possible options in this regard. I spoke with the Secretary of State again this week and we will meet in early April.
I remain in contact also with the political parties in Northern Ireland, in working to ensure that every avenue is pursued and all possibilities are considered in seeking to secure a return to devolved power-sharing government, as provided for under the Agreement.
The Taoiseach has spoken with Prime Minister May and emphasised the Government’s full commitment to the Good Friday Agreement, and our determination to secure the effective operation of all of its institutions.
As co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, both Governments have an obligation to uphold and protect the letter and spirit of that Agreement.
The Good Friday Agreement remains the indispensable framework for providing stable, inclusive, power-sharing government for all the people of Northern Ireland and for sustaining our interlocking relationships – within Northern Ireland, on the island of Ireland and between the UK and Ireland.
