Sorca Clarke
Ceist:425. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the engagement he or his party has had with the political leaders in Northern Ireland following the Assembly Elections. [24931/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 17 May 2022
Ceisteanna (425)
Freagraí scríofa
I remain in regular contact with the parties in Northern Ireland and with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland following the Assembly elections. I have met with, and spoken by phone, to the leaders, on 9 and 11 May, and in the days immediately after the election. I will continue to be in contact as appropriate during the period ahead.
This election has undoubtedly brought with it significant democratic change, which will need to be navigated in the period ahead.
It is, first and foremost, a matter for the parties now, and those representatives that have been elected in good faith, to come together to establish an Executive that can deliver for all of the people of Northern Ireland on the basis of the result of the election, and in a spirit of partnership, equality and mutual respect.
The days ahead will see that process begin, and we will continue to engage with the parties and the British Government, to support the full functioning of the democratic institutions of the Good Friday Agreement. I hope, as we all do, that we will see those institutions up and running as soon as possible. I will also continue to remain in close contact with the Secretary of State, as both Governments work in partnership as co-guarantors of the Agreement, in support of power-sharing and a peaceful and prosperous future for all the people of Northern Ireland.