In their inaugural telephonic conversation after Simon Harris assumed office as the new leader of Fine Gael, he along with UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, deliberated over issues pertinent to Northern Ireland but noticeably excluded discussion on the heavily debated Legacy Act instituted by the UK government, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the Government. Instead, the British legislation is currently being contested in the European Court of Human Rights.
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 raised eyebrows owing to its provision to cease all future civil cases and legacy inquests. This move faces backlash from various victims groups and the key parties in Stormont, based in Northern Ireland. Mr Harris did not engage Mr Sunak in any discussion on the Legacy Act, which, according to him will be addressed in depth at a more comprehensive bilateral meeting scheduled to take place in person at a later date.
The spokesman also stated that the unrest brewing within the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), specifically surrounding Jeffrey Donaldson’s abrupt resignation as DUP leader in the wake of sexual offence charges, was not broached extensively. Donaldson, however, is anticipated to vehemently fight these charges.
The void left by Donaldson’s exit has temporarily been filled by East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson as the DUP’s interim leader.
The discourse between Harris and Sunak reportedly touched upon the North South Ministerial Council’s (NSMC) latest meeting which was attended by the newly elected Taoiseach in his former capacity as the Minister for Higher Education. The NSMC, held for the first time in several years, had been on hold due to the suspension of power sharing triggered by the DUP’s scepticism over post-Brexit commerce protocols.
Sunak and Harris also conversed on the Middle-East crisis, advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza and promoting access to humanitarian relief. Sunak commended Harris on being elected Taoiseach and the telephonic dialogue was summarised as “a very productive call” that lasted twenty minutes.
The government later relayed that Harris also conversed telephonically with First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly.
The Taoiseach highlighted the significance he accords to his duty as a joint guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement, amidst its 26th anniversary celebrations. The re-establishment of the North South Ministerial Council this week led to a positive anticipation of revitalised North-South engagement in the upcoming months, expressed by the Taoiseach, the First Minister, and the Deputy First Minister, according to a report.
Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, engaged in a phone conversation with Mr. Harris. The government report noted that they discussed the current state of affairs in Ukraine, as they continue opposing Russian hostility. Furthermore, they deliberated on how Ireland, the EU, and the global community can lend their support to Ukraine and President Zelenskiy’s peace roadmap.
In his capacity as Taoiseach, Mr. Harris believed it was crucial to engage with President Zelenskiy on his first day in office. He took this opportunity to affirm Ireland’s steadfast support for Ukraine and its courageous citizens as they persist in their resistance against President Putin’s imperialistic domination, striving to regain their sovereignty and territorial boundaries.
According to Mr. Harris, Russia’s actions pose a serious threat to all of Europe; the Ukrainian people are not only defending their own freedom but also safeguarding Europe’s shared values. He assured President Zelenskiy of Ireland’s continued assistance.
The leaders applauded the recent European Council’s resolution to commence EU accession discussions with Ukraine. Mr. Harris extended Ireland’s assistance in their quest to qualify for EU membership. He also promised to champion support for Ukraine’s peace programme among global partners who maintain a close affiliation with Ireland, including countries in Africa.
Mr. Harris highlighted Ireland’s continued commitment in the EU and the UN to hold Russia accountable for its actions, even if it means endorsing more sanctions against the country. The Irish have warmly welcomed over 105,000 Ukrainian refugees escaping the war, and for this, Mr. Harris expressed his pride. He acknowledged their valuable contribution to Irish society and reassured that Ireland would continue to provide refuge to individuals seeking safety from this devastating conflict.