Statement by Tánaiste Simon Harris following calls with the First and Deputy First Ministers of Northern Ireland

"I am delighted to have had the opportunity to speak with the First Minister of Northern Ireland, Michelle O’Neill, and the deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly.

"We discussed the impact of the Storm Éowyn, which is a reminder of the common challenges we face on this island, including immediate impact of the storm on citizens and longer term around the provision of public services.

"This is a time to intensify our work together to address the shared challenges on this island. The renewed commitment of our government to the Shared Island initiative is a key part of this.

"During the calls I emphasised that the North South Ministerial Council meetings in the coming months, which give new Government Ministers in Ireland an early opportunity to meet their Northern counterparts, will be a chance to agree ambitious and concrete deliverables that can make a positive practical difference to the day to day lives of everyone on this island.

"I have really enjoyed working with the First and deputy First Ministers as Taoiseach, and I look forward to doing so again in my new role. I plan to meet them in Belfast very shortly."