The reopening of the Northern Ireland assembly has been hailed as a “very positive day” by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.
He was joined at Stormont today by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to commemorate a return to power-sharing after it collapsed in early 2022.
The return of the assembly saw Sinn Féin’s Michelle O’Neill become the first nationalist to hold the role of Northern Ireland’s First Minister - a role previously held by 11 unionist leaders.
Leo Varadkar said there are big possibilities for an all-island economy.
“I see the future of the economy here as being very bright,” he said.
“I think Northern Ireland has an opportunity to leverage its access to the single market, being within the UK internal market as well.
“But also, by building up the north-south internal economy.”
It's great to be back in Northern Ireland - a special part of our United Kingdom.
After two years, it's clear how important the Assembly's return is to local people - giving them a say in issues that matter.
Now it's time to deliver a brighter future for Northern Ireland. pic.twitter.com/BEuh4B731C
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) February 4, 2024
Rishi Sunak told the assembly today that “the real work starts now”.
“I think this is an important, significant and historic day for Northern Ireland,” he said.
“With the executive back up and running and the new deal we have arranged, they will have more funding and powers than ever before to deliver for families and businesses across Northern Ireland.”
The DUP's Emma Little-Pengelly has also taken on the role of Deputy First Minister in the Northern Ireland assembly - becoming the first ever unionist to hold the position.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar pictured on a trip to Northern Ireland in 2018: PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo
