Taoiseach and Prime Minister must personally intervene in talks – Howlin

Labour Party Leader and spokesperson on Northern Ireland, Brendan Howlin TD, has called on the Taoiseach and British Prime Minister to both personally intervene to advance the stalled talks in Northern Ireland.

Deputy Howlin said:

“It is has been clear for some time now that the DUP and Sinn Fein will not by themselves do a deal in Northern Ireland to restore the institutions. 

“With Brexit looming, the restoration of the Executive is an imperative to protect the real interests of Northern Ireland. With the DUP now calling for the British Government to set a Budget for the North, it is clear that the talks have stalled.

“Over recent weeks we have seen the Taoiseach engage in jostling and shape throwing with Sinn Fein in the Dáil.  While Sinn Fein are their own worst enemies in this regard, the Taoiseach’s endeavours have been self-serving – perhaps pleasing to his base, but unhelpful in the context of the peace process which as Taoiseach he has a duty to advance.  

“The Taoiseach has suggested that we will not tolerate a return to British direct rule, whatever he means by that, but that is where we are heading unless he intervenes.

“Before time runs out, the British Prime Minister and Taoiseach must, as guardians of the Good Friday Agreement, roll up their sleeves and get themselves involved in the interests of the people of Northern Ireland. While doing so, they should make sure that other Northern parties are not excluded from the talks.”