Written Answers Nos. 1-29
24. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Taoiseach if he will provide an update on his most recent engagement with political representatives and groups from Northern Ireland since he returned to Oifig an Taoisigh. [1679/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI travelled to Belfast on the 12th of January for a round of engagements with the leaders of the five main political parties, the focus of which were on the formation of the Executive and the EU-UK Protocol negotiations. Legacy and a number of other issues of concern, were also discussed.
I emphasised that it is a priority for this government to encourage the parties in Northern Ireland to form an Executive, so that all of the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement can resume their important work at this time of very significant political challenges.
I also met with the Northern Ireland Business Brexit Working Group, who represent a variety of different parties, including retail, manufacturing and agrifood, during my visit. The discussion focused on the implications of the Protocol and Brexit.
29. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach the extent to which he has had communication or meetings with various Government sub-Committees since the formation of the Government. [2230/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government has established the following 10 Cabinet Committees -
- Brexit and Northern Ireland
- Children and Education
- Economy and Investment
- Environment and Climate Change
- EU and International Affairs
- Government Co-ordination
- Health
- Housing
- Humanitarian Response to Ukraine
- Social Affairs and Public Services.
I am a member of all Committees with the Tánaiste and Minister Ryan. In addition to the membership of the Committees, other Ministers and Ministers of State may attend meetings as required.
The Government Co-ordination Committee has met twice since the formation of the new Government and is scheduled to meet again on the 7th of February.
The Cabinet Committee on Housing met yesterday, Monday, the 30th of January, and the Committee on Humanitarian Response to Ukraine will meet this afternoon.
The Cabinet Committee on Health is scheduled to meet on the 13th of February and the Committee on the Economy and Investment on the 16th of February.
Other Committees will meet in the coming weeks.
