Financial Package a significant achievement

The Minister for Foreign Affairs welcomed to-day’s announcement of a financial package which will help underpin the restoration of a devolved Executive in Northern Ireland.

Noting that the British and Irish Governments have co-operated closely in developing this package the Minister stated that

‘To-day’s package is a significant achievement for the parties as they prepare for restoration.

It provides a good economic basis for the incoming Executive to carry out its work for all the people of Northern Ireland.’

With an unprecedented contribution from the Irish Government key initiatives in the package include a major cross border roads programme and a new North/South innovation fund.

The Minister said

‘The Irish Government is making these investments to promote the economic prosperity and development of the whole of the island of Ireland as well as all of the community in Northern Ireland. I see real benefits for the entire border region.

This roads programme which includes a dual carriageway route to Derry and Donegal will be a major boost to the North West.

The Irish Government’s contribution is part of an integrated package of proposals. Our priorities include the Ulster Canal, Narrow Water Bridge and co-operation on enhanced provision of public services in areas such as health and education.

We look forward to working with the incoming Executive and the British Government on all these proposals’.

The Minister added

‘In the election the people of Northern Ireland made clear that they want their politicians to get on with the job and tackle ‘bread and butter’ issues.

Now is the opportunity for politicians to deliver economic prosperity and a stable government in Northern Ireland which will secure the future of all their children.’