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The Taoiseach and the new British Prime Minister spoke on the phone this evening.

They spoke of the strong relationship between Ireland and the UK, that is closer now than ever before.

They agreed to build on the close cooperation that has been developed between the Irish and British Governments in recent years, including in their support of the peace process and the Good Friday Agreement, and in progressing areas of co-operation under the Ireland-UK Joint Statement.

They discussed the important challenges to be faced in the time ahead, not least those arising from the recent vote by the people of the UK to leave the EU.

Speaking after the conversation, the Taoiseach said:

I have offered my congratulations and best wishes to the Prime Minister following her appointment this evening.

We discussed a range of issues of mutual interest, including the importance of continuing to work together to build on the excellent relationship that now exists between Ireland and Britain, including our joint support of the peace process and the wider development of co-operation between our two countries.

We also discussed the important challenges that arise from the recent vote by the UK to leave the European Union.

I outlined Ireland’s key areas of concern and shared my perspective on the challenges that lie ahead in the forthcoming negotiations.

We agreed to stay in touch and that we would meet each other in the coming weeks.