In a keynote address to be given in Derry on Monday, Simon Harris, the Taoiseach, is anticipated to declare a significantly improved phase in relations between the UK and Ireland. This will be the Taoiseach’s inaugural visit to Derry, where he will undertake various official engagements.
During his journey, highlighting the importance of North-South ties, Mr Harris is set to interact with several political, community, and civic leaders, among them Derry’s mayor, Lilian Seenoi-Barr. He will also declare a joint branding initiative between the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal Route, situated along the coasts of Derry and Antrim. He is also scheduled to tour the Ulster University’s Magee campus in Derry, which is currently involved in a government-funded Shared Island project for the construction of a new teaching and student service hub.
In his anticipated speech, Harris will underscore the rejuvenated dynamism in North-South and east-west connections and will lay stress on his commitment to the full realisation of the Belfast Agreement. He is expected to appreciate the influence of his recent interactions with the UK premier, Keir Starmer, which have propelled the much-needed refurbishment of the relations between the two administrations.
Mr Harris is also set to highlight the rejuvenated drive in cross-border teamwork and the government’s assurance to endorse the future of the North via the Shared Island fund. His expected words are, “Presently, we are re-establishing a genuine alliance, ensuring mutual effort to tackle the critical issues that establish lasting peace, progress, and reconciliation,”. He’s further anticipated to state, “The Irish Government is staunchly committed to reinforcing relationships across all political traditions on this island and restoring faith where it has been lost.” So, stay tuned to our politics podcast, ‘Inside Politics,’ to keep abreast with the best political talk and analysis.