03/06/2019

Restoring NI's Power-Sharing Institutions 'Necessary And Possible' - SF

Restoring Northern Ireland's power-sharing institutions is "necessary and possible", Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald has said at the conclusion of the first phase of talks.

Deputy McDonald said: "We are now at the end of this phase of the talks. All parties and both governments have shared their positions and all agree on the need to re-establish the power sharing institutions of the Good Friday Agreement.

"The next phase of talks must move from the aspiration to re-establish the institutions to actually reaching an agreement that delivers for all.

"I believe that progress is possible and necessary. It will be found in implementing our existing agreements, respecting the equality of all and recognising the rights of one section of the community does not diminish the rights of others.

"Success must be felt by all in society with all party power-sharing institutions operating to the highest standards and delivering for all without fear or favour.

"We have faced greater challenges in the past and with generosity and imagination we have found a way forward.

"Sinn Féin will enter the next phase of talks dedicated to reaching agreement and a route back to all party power-sharing.

"Sinn Féin's negotiating team have engaged fully and will move to the next phase with a determination to resolve the outstanding issues."

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