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The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs & Trade, Mr. Simon Coveney T.D. met this afternoon with US Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson. At the meeting, the Tánaiste and Secretary of State discussed a range of issues, including the current impasse in Northern Ireland and the implications of Brexit.

Following the meeting, the Tánaiste expressed appreciation for the important role played by successive US administrations in supporting the peace process in Northern Ireland. The prospect of a future Northern Ireland envoy was also discussed.

“The United States, has been instrumental in helping to broker peace in Northern Ireland and continues to provide valuable encouragement and support to the peace process.”

On Brexit, the Tánaiste updated the Secretary of State on Ireland’s objectives and priorities for the Brexit negotiations.

“I told the Secretary of State that Ireland faces the challenges of Brexit as a global island at the heart of Europe and as a country with a close partnership with the US. I also underlined our determination that Brexit must not in any way undermine the peace process and the gains achieved by the Good Friday Agreement.

I also expressed the view that Ireland would be in a position to play an enhanced role in transatlantic relations post-Brexit in light of our unique ties with the US.”

The Tánaiste also welcomed the opportunity to discuss global issues, including the situation in the Middle East, with the Secretary of State.