Irish leader hails ‘special day for the people of Northern Ireland’

Irish leaders have celebrated a “special day for the people of Northern Ireland” as the devolved government is restored after a two-year hiatus.

Sinn Féin vice-president Michelle O’Neill made history on Saturday by becoming the first nationalist or republican prime minister to be confirmed.

She will serve as deputy prime minister alongside DUP MLA Emma Littlepengelly.

Former DUP leader Edwin Poots has been elected as the new leader of the parliament.

Irish President Michael D. Higgins said the reopening of Parliament “will be welcomed by all who want an effective power-sharing system”.

He also praised Ms O’Neill and Ms Little Pengelly’s first speeches in their new roles, calling them “impressive in their inclusiveness and warmth”.

“The Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister’s speeches were most impressive for their inclusiveness, warmth, and desire to firmly address all of the important practical challenges we will face,” he said.

“This clear shared desire to work together provides the best prospects for each agency to serve all people and meet their diverse needs.

“I wish the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and their Cabinet members well in their new roles in their future work as we look to the full restoration of all institutions of devolved government.”

Mr Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Michael Martin said they looked forward to working with all the new ministers.

But he said Northern Ireland “faces a number of real challenges”.

“The last few weeks and months have been focused on rebuilding Congress and the executive branch, and now the hard work begins in earnest,” he said.

“Northern Ireland faces many real challenges.

“These challenges can be met if executives work together and prioritize real, everyday needs over identity issues.

“The Government stands ready to support the Executive’s efforts and work with the UK Government to address this issue.”

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The Tánaiste also said: “I look forward to an early meeting of the North-South Ministerial Council (NSMC).”

“NSMC will continue to play a critical role in ensuring we make the most of our shared opportunities, including supporting the island-wide economy, which continues to be a source of prosperity, growth and livelihoods for many people in every community. “beyond this island,” he said.

“Northern Ireland’s unique position as part of the UK domestic market, along with unique access to the EU’s single market with a population of around 450 million people, offers solid growth opportunities. To do.

“It is the role of the Executive and Parliament to take advantage of these unique opportunities to ensure Northern Ireland can prosper and grow.”