Oireachtas Committee Chairmen meet Secretary of State Villiers

8 November 2012

Reflecting on the murder of prison officer David Black last week, security issues were central to the discussions.

Ms Villiers assumed her position as Secretary of State earlier in the year and this was her first opportunity to meet with Oireachtas Committee Chairmen.

Deputy McHugh says: “Yesterday we welcomed Secretary of State Villiers on what was her first visit to Leinster House. The killing of David Black last week was roundly condemned and we remain fully resolved to ensure that those responsible would not derail the progress of recent years. I emphasised the importance of not taking the peace process for granted. Politically we must work on behalf of the people, who have the determination and will to work towards a better society on all parts of the island, and to ensure that the Peace Process is a work in progress and not just a given.  We spoke in detail of the need for continued cooperation between the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Garda Síochána to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and wider dissident activity is curbed. Building on fruitful discussions at yesterday’s informal meeting, our Committee pledged to work closely with  Secretary of State Villiers into the future.\"

The meeting also touched on how economic and trade links can be further enhanced.

Deputy Breen says: “Relations on a North/South and East/West level have never been stronger. At yesterday’s meeting, we re-affirmed our commitment to bolster trade links amid these difficult economic times, which have the potential to bring significant gains to businesses and families across these islands.”

Ends
For further information please contact:
Paul Hand,
Houses of the Oireachtas,
Communications Unit,
Leinster House,
Dublin 2

P: +3531 618 4484
M: +353 87 694 9926
F: +3531 618 4551
paul.hand@oireachtas.ie