Taoiseach Simon Harris urged ministers to enhance outreach with their equivalents in the newly formed British government during the concluding session of the Fine Gael parliamentary party prior to the Dáil summer break. This initiative is part of the government’s strategy to bolster UK-Ireland relations under the recently established Labour rule.
Both Harris and the British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, acknowledge the potential to rebuild the strained relations between the two countries. This strain has been caused by the ongoing Brexit situation and the contentious Legacy Act, put forward by the previous Conservative government, concerning the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Many victims’ groups and major Stormont parties in Northern Ireland, and the Labour party have committed to revoking and replacing the Act.
In the following week, Harris is due to have a meeting with Starmer. The Taoiseach informed his TDs and Senators that both the meeting and a working dinner will take place at the PM’s rural residence, Chequers, instead of Downing Street, allowing for more extended engagement.
Harris mentioned that Irish ministers are being encouraged to step up their engagement with their British peers. In addition, the Fine Gael leader also mentioned the forthcoming Budget 2025, which he promised would yield increased income and reward hard work.
He expressed optimism about delivering a favourable budget this year encompassing tax and welfare packages, following the Summer Economic Statement (SES). Released last Tuesday, the SES suggests that the forthcoming budget will be based on a whopping €8.3 billion tax and expenditure package, which includes an additional public spend of €6.9 billion and taxation interventions totalling €1.4 billion.
In relation to diverse matters, Mr Harris articulated his plans to convene a meeting with pertinent Ministers. The key aim is to deliberate best measures to mitigate perennial school transport problems. He also verified the appointment of Olwyn Enright, the erstwhile Fine Gael TD, as the party’s organisational director.
Her responsibilities in this role encompass election planning, devising strategies, and developing messaging and campaign plans. Nikki Bradley, the newly nominated Senator, was greeted into the parliamentary party. Furthermore, contributors to the meeting commended Simon Coveney, the previous tánaiste and minister, who recently affirmed his decision not to compete in the upcoming general election.
The meeting also saw tributes and a pause in remembrance for John O’Mahony, the former TD who passed away during the weekend.