23/10/2014

Irish Foreign Affairs Minister In Belfast

The Irish Foreign Affairs Minister is in Belfast today, Thursday, to continue with the political talks.

Minister Flanagan will meet with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Theresa Villiers, and representatives of the UUP, SDLP, Alliance and Sinn Féin.

The political talks are focusing on budgetary and financial issues, as well as legacy issues, including the question of dealing with the past.

Minister Flanagan said: "The talks got off to a positive start last week – I am determined to build on that today. I will use my time in Belfast to consider with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland Executive Parties how we can best tackle the complex legacy issues, including the very sensitive issue of dealing with the past. This is an issue that cannot be ignored – a fair, balanced, overarching framework for dealing with the past is essential so that Northern Ireland continues to make progress towards reconciliation and a shared society."

(CD/MH)

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