Statement from Tánaiste on Restoration of Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive

"Today is a special day for the people of Northern Ireland. Two years after the Assembly and Executive were collapsed, they have been restored. MLAs who were given a mandate by their electorate back in May 2022 can now take up that mandate in full.

"I want to congratulate Michelle O’Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly on assuming their roles as First Minister and deputy First Minister. I wish them both well in what will be very demanding roles. I look forward to working with them, and with their Executive colleagues.

"I also want to congratulate Edwin Poots on his election as Speaker of the Assembly.

"While the last few weeks and months have focused on restoring the Assembly and Executive, the hard work now begins in earnest. Northern Ireland faces a number of real challenges. An Executive working collectively - and prioritising real, everyday needs over questions of identity - can meet these challenges.

"The government stands ready to support the work of the Executive and to work in partnership with the British Government in this.

"I look forward to an early meeting of the North-South Ministerial Council. The NSMC will play a key role in the period ahead in making sure that we make the most of shared opportunities, including supporting the all-island economy, which continues to be a source of prosperity, growth, and livelihoods for many from all communities across this island.

"Northern Ireland’s unique position as part of the UK internal market while, at the same time, having unique access to the EU’s single market of nearly 450 million people provides a solid opportunity for growth. It will now be for the Executive and Assembly to ensure that Northern Ireland can prosper and grow using these unrivalled opportunities."