Statement by President Higgins welcoming reactivation of the Northern Ireland Assembly
Date: Sat 3rd Feb, 2024 | 15:55
“Today’s reactivation of the Northern Ireland Assembly will be welcomed by all those who wish to see an effective system of power-sharing.
May I congratulate Edwin Poots on his election as Speaker of Stormont and wish him every success in the role.
May I send warmest regards to Michelle O’Neill on her nomination as First Minister and to Emma Little-Pengelly on her nomination as Deputy First Minister and convey to both of them every good wish in the responsibilities they are undertaking.
The speeches of both the First Minister and the Deputy First Minister were most impressive in their inclusion, warmth and their wish to get to grips with all of the important practical tasks that they will face. This obvious shared desire to work together offers the best of prospects for the institutions to serve all of the people and to meet their differing needs.
I wish the First Minister, Deputy First Minister and their Ministers well in their new roles in the work that lies ahead of them as we look ahead to the full restoration of all of the institutions of devolved Government.
Traoslaím libh uilig agus guídhim gach beannacht do’n todhchaí.”
ENDS