Northern Ireland Bureau celebrates restoration of Power-Sharing Government in Northern Ireland

Washington, DC- This evening, the Northern Ireland Bureau gathered with officials from the British and Irish Embassies, members of Congress, business leaders and other friends of Northern Ireland to celebrate the restoration of power-sharing to the region.

Earlier today, Democratic Unionist Party leader Dr. Ian Paisley and Sinn Fein’s Martin McGuinness took the oath of office to become Northern Ireland’s First Minister and Deputy First Minister, respectively.  In an historic ceremony in Belfast, these leaders were joined by Prime Minister Tony Blair, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and a U.S. delegation led by Senator Ted Kennedy.

In a joint statement Dr. Paisley and Mr. McGuinness wrote, “Tuesday 8 May 2007 represents a seminal moment in our history – the day that marks a new beginning for everyone. After many difficult and dark days we believe this is an unprecedented opportunity to deliver a better future for everyone.”

Devolution returns to Northern Ireland following a five year hiatus, during which time Northern Ireland was governed by Westminster-based ministers.  With a new team of ten ministers selected from the four largest political parties, this administration is prepared to address key issues in Northern Ireland including: strengthening the economy and infrastructure; tackling poverty and intolerance; and improving the health and education systems.

The return of a power-sharing Executive in Northern Ireland marks the beginning of a new chapter of reconciliation for the region, and an opportunity to close the book on a painful history of sectarianism and divisiveness.  In his remarks to the crowd assembled at the Northern Ireland Bureau office, the Bureau’s Executive Director Tim Losty, acknowledging America’s role in today’s events said, “Our many friends in the United States have been involved in the peace and political process over the years and are part of this new beginning.  Losty continued, “The future of Northern Ireland is now in our hands, and it is up to us to ensure that it meets its full potential.”