Taoiseach Marks 30th Anniversary Of Anglo-Irish Agreement

The Taoiseach Enda Kenny has marked the 30th anniversary of the Anglo-Irish Agreement, a treaty between the Irish and UK government aimed at helping to end the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

Speaking at an event hosted by Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan at Iveagh House, he said: "I welcome all those here who helped make that agreement happen, who implemented it and built on its foundations over subsequent decades in the pursuit of peace, reconciliation, stability and prosperity.

"Tonight, we can all take time to reflect on this major milestone in the history of this island, relationships within it and with our neighbours in Britain. And to assess and survey the role the Anglo-Irish Agreement has played in shaping events of the last three decades.

"My own view, which I hope many of you will share, is clear. This was truly a momentous document that has helped to transform British-Irish relations for the better, in every possible sense. All three key relationships – between the respective two communities in Northern Ireland, between North and South and between East and West – have benefited enormously from it."

The Taoiseach concluded by commenting that current political situation in Northern Ireland is " not perfect but it is immeasurably better than 30 years ago. This is a world that was made possible by the people who negotiated the Anglo Irish Agreement."

(MH/CD)