TAOISEACH ENDA KENNY and British Prime Minister David Cameron are set to publish plans for the development of British-Irish relations over the next ten years.
The pair are meeting in Downing Street today to conclude proposals for strengthening bilateral relations before issuing a detailed statement.
After meeting in January this year, the two leaders decided to meet again in March to finalise and publish the joint statement. They said they both believed the time was right for such a move.
They are expected to set out plans for closer engagement in trade and investment between the two countries, as well as better economic cooperation. They also will reiterate Ireland and Great Britain’s close cooperation in Europe and on global issues will continue.
The statement will also reaffirm the leaders’ commitment to the Northern Ireland peace process.
Yesterday, Sinn Féin’s president Gerry Adams urged Kenny to press the prime minister on the legacy of Northern Ireland’s conflict. He said the UK government had refused to honour commitments in the Good Friday, Weston Park and St Andrew’s Agreements, adding: “Mr Kenny needs to tell David Cameron that this is unacceptable.”
Kenny’s visit to London is part of the Government’s busy St Patrick’s Day programme. While in the city, he will also attend the London launch of the British Irish Chamber of Commerce at the Irish Embassy.
Later today, the Taoiseach will take in a commemorative exhibition at Westminster Hall to mark the centenary of the Third Home Rule Bill. Also in the Houses of Parliament, he will participate in the annual CHAMP St Patrick’s Day event.
Charity organisation CHAMP aims to promote peace and prosperity in Northern Ireland, as well as raise awareness of the progress being made among international political and business leaders there. Other politicians, business leaders and important figures from the media, arts, sport and culture will also be present.
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