Minster for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin, T.D. meets British Secretary of State Shaun Woodward, M.P., to discuss the current situation in Northern Ireland

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Minster for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin, T.D. meets British Secretary of State Shaun Woodward, M.P., to discuss the current situation in Northern Ireland

Minster for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Micheál Martin, T.D., held talks in London today with the British Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Shaun Woodward, M.P. The Minister and Secretary of State reviewed progress towards the devolution of policing and justice powers to the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Speaking in London today, the Minister for Foreign Affairs said:

“The Government is firmly committed to the full and effective implementation of the Good Friday and St Andrews Agreements. The transfer of policing and justice powers from Westminster to Stormont represents a significant step in that process.

The Secretary of State briefed me today on the ongoing discussions on the financial package which will be provided by the British Government which are at an advanced stage. I would therefore urge all political parties in Northern Ireland to make early progress toward completing this important aspect of devolution.

A locally elected and accountable Justice Minister in Northern Ireland will demonstrate that Northern Ireland is a step closer to security and societal normalisation.

The Assembly and Executive will then be better able to focus on the broad range of other issues on their agenda including the serious economic challenges which we all face.

The Government is committed to working closely with the Northern Ireland Executive to achieve the full promise of the Agreement and a better and shared future for all on this island.”

ENDS+++

07 October 2009

Press Office