Published on Wednesday7thDecember2016
Focus on Brexit in Minister Flanagan's visit to London
National Library of Wales make a presentation to Minister Flanagan marking centenary cooperation
Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan is in London today for a series of meetings.
His political meetings included engagement with Hilary Benn MP, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee for Exiting the EU; with Labour Shadow SoS for NI, Dave Anderson and with the All-Party Parliamentary Group on the Irish in Britain.
Minister Flanagan said:
As a parliamentarian for over 25 years I am particularly conscious of the importance of broadening engagement beyond government ministers. I value the perspective and role of parliamentarians and today's meetings were particularly useful.
I also had a good discussion with Dave Anderson MP on developments in Northern Ireland. I affirmed the Irish Government's strong commitment to the full implementation of the Stormont House and Fresh Start Agreements, including the crucial issue of establishing the institutions for dealing with the legacy of the past. I reiterated our dedication to protecting the provisions of the Good Friday Agreement, to maintaining an invisible border and to protecting our island economy in the context of Brexit.
Minister Flanagan also addressed a gathering of those involved in Ireland's successful 2016 centenary commemoration at the Irish Embassy.
The centenary of the Rising gave us the opportunity to showcase the rich culture and diverse history of our island. Our team in London, under the leadership of Ambassador Mulhall, delivered a strong programme which reflected both the Irish experience of the First World War and the Easter Rising and helped to deepen understanding of our history in the UK. I am delighted that hundreds of thousands of people in the UK engaged in the wide programme of official centenary events during this very important anniversary year for Ireland.