26/04/2019

Governments Expected To Announce Stormont Talks Plan

The Irish and British Governments are expected to agree fresh plans for talks to reestablish the Stormont executive in Northern Ireland.

The region has been without a power sharing executive from January 2017 after it collapsed over the botched renewable heating scandal.

After several rounds of failed negotiations, with marriage equality, an Irish Language Act and the Petition of Concern becoming key divisive factors, recent days have seen political leaders face fresh pressure in the wake of the murder of journalist Lyra McKee.

Tánaiste Simon Coveney and Northern Ireland Secretary of State Karen Bradley are reportedly set to announce a renewed effort to form an executive.

Following the funeral of Ms Mckee, who was shot dead while reporting on dissident republican riots in L'Derry, Mr Coveney indicated his commitment to resolving the political impasse.

Writing on Twitter, he said: "Belfast today was a powerful outpouring of support, solidarity, diversity, sadness and love for Lyra McKee and her family- a strong message too for all political leaders and both Governments, that NI demands more from us. We must work together to build a better future…and we will."

Northern Ireland's two largest parties, the DUP and Sinn Fein, have both expressed willingness to resume talks, but it is clear major differences remain.



(JG/MH)

Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

12 March 2024
How Much Gambling Takes Place in Ireland?
When we think of Ireland, we may think of many things ranging from lush green landscapes to Guinness and Irish dancing, but it may be surprising to learn that the country has a passion for gambling.
11 January 2011
Northern Executive Budget Crisis Looming
Amid news that only four Stormont Executive Departments have finalised their budgets, the Alliance Party has attacked Executive Ministers for failing to publish their respective spending plans. Finance Spokesperson Stephen Farry said they are treating the people of Northern Ireland with contempt through denying a proper consultation on the Budget.
27 November 2008
Northern Executive 'Welcome Southern Shoppers'
With shoppers from the Irish Republic already heading north in droves to benefit from the strength of the Euro, and with the British Government plan to cut VAT in sight, a senior NI Executive politician has welcomed the influx.