British Irish Intergovernmental Council should be convened – Richmond

Following a week of violent protests in Northern Ireland, a Fine Gael TD has said the British Irish Intergovernmental Council should be convened this week.

Deputy Neale Richmond has said such a meeting would allow both Governments to play a proactive role in providing solutions to the current problems of street violence.

“Many of us have watched on and seen the worrying scenes across Northern Ireland, particularly in Belfast, over recent evenings.

“The shocking street violence involving children as young as 12, that has led to the injuries of dozens of PSNI officers as well as much damage, is a worrying development.

“At times like this, both the British and Irish Governments have a duty to engage with each other and the leadership of Northern Irish parties to provide solutions to calm concerns on the ground.

“The joint statement by all parties in the Assembly condemning the shocking levels of street violence was welcome as was the engagement of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, but a meeting of the British Irish Intergovernmental Council is now in order.

“Under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement, the Council can bring together British and Irish Ministers in a formal setting to discuss specific matters of concern.

“This is clearly warranted at this time, and it would demonstrate the clear determination of both Governments to work with all parties to end this violence and put the focus on proper engagement,” Deputy Richmond concluded.