Cowen Meets Congressional Delegation

At his first meeting with Representatives from the U.S. Congress since the installation of the new Bush Administration, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Brian Cowen T.D., has thanked Ireland's "friends on Capitol Hill who have been instrumental in bringing forward inclusive policies on Northern Ireland".

Addressing a Congressional delegation led by Representative Ben Gilman, former Chairman of the House International Relations Committee, the Minister expressed the Government's appreciation for the tremendous work of Congress on Northern Ireland issues. Acknowledging the helpful role of the Congress on policing, he said the Government is working hard on the issue and that while there is still some way to go, progress is being made.

The Minister also spoke of the Government's deep appreciation for US financial support for the work of the International Fund for Ireland which now totals some US$330 million since its establishment in 1986.

Emphasising the shared heritage of Ireland and the United States, the Minister said he was looking forward "to working with Congress and the new Administration on a wide range of issues, particularly issues facing both countries on the United Nations Security Council".Top