Ivan Lewis MP, Labour’s Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, visits Dublin 09 & 10 February 2014

During his first official trip to the Republic of Ireland as Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Mr Lewis carried out a series of appointments over three days in both Wexford and Dublin.

Ivan Lewis MP, Labour’s Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, speaking in Dublin, said:

“The upcoming visit to London by the Irish President Michael Higgins, and the Queen’s visit in 2011, are further signs of the transformation in the relationship between the UK and Ireland. While once the relationship was strained by suspicion, it has been transformed by the Northern Ireland
peace process into a strong partnership between close neighbours.

"This partnership is vital for peace and stability in Northern Ireland but also an economic recovery in both countries which leads to new jobs and an improved standard of living for working people.”

In advance of his meeting with the Tánaiste, Eamon Gilmore TD, Ivan Lewis spoke about the important role both governments can play in ensuring that the Haass talks reach agreement:

“The Haass framework offers the best hope for dealing with contentious issues such as the past, parades and flags. Now is the time for the UK and Irish Governments to step up to the plate and use their influence to support a positive outcome to the all party talks.”