merrion street

Following today’s announcement of Michelle O’Neill as leader of Sinn Féin in the Northern Ireland Assembly, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan, TD, stated:

“I wish to warmly congratulate Michelle O’ Neill, following the announcement today of her selection as the new leader of Sinn Féin in the Northern Ireland Assembly. This is a statement of the very high regard in which Michelle is held by her party colleagues and I am sure this is a very proud and special day for her and her family.

“I, and my Government colleagues, have worked closely and constructively with Michelle in the North South Ministerial Council both during her time as Minister for Agriculture and more recently as Minister for Health. Her hard work and dedication was evident in both of these portfolios. I know that we share a sense of urgency in our determination to see the power-sharing institutions effectively functioning at Stormont once the election has taken place.

“A key shared objective will be to work, together with the other political parties in Northern Ireland, to ensure that the full promise of the Good Friday Agreement and successor agreements are realised. This includes the prompt re-establishment of the devolved institutions, underpinned by genuine partnership and equality, following the current election campaign.

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with Michelle in her new role. I believe we share the same determination to advance peace and stability in Northern Ireland for the benefit of all its people.

“I again congratulate Michelle on her success.”