Effective representation in Europe crucial for Northern Ireland

Denis Haughey and James Leslie, Ministers in the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, have stressed the value and importance of Northern Ireland having effective representation at the heart of Europe.

The Ministers were speaking after meeting in Brussels with Heads of Regional Offices from Germany, Spain, Italy and Belgium as well as the UK.

The meeting was held in the new Northern Ireland regional office and was attended by high-ranking representatives from Catalonia, Flanders, Galicia, Emilia-Romagna, Bremen and Baden-Wurttembourg as well as from Scotland and Wales.

Mr Haughey said: "The devolved administration in Northern Ireland fully recognises the need to ensure that Northern Ireland’s interests are represented effectively in Brussels. We intend to learn from the experience of other regions in Europe and adapt these best practices to ensure that Northern Ireland’s voice is heard.

"Meeting representatives of other constitutional regions has provided a valuable insight into the different models of representation which exist and this will help to inform the future development of Northern Ireland’s office in Brussels."

Mr Leslie commented: "I am pleased that Northern Ireland's Brussels Office is already forming good working relations with these important regional representations. The development of such networks is vital in increasing the influence and profile of Northern Ireland in Europe.

"At our meeting we have been able to discuss the need for an effective voice for constitutional regions, in the context of the Future of Europe debate. We have also explored opportunities for further inter-regional co-operation."

During their day-long visit to Brussels, Ministers also met with Members of the European Parliament and senior officials from the European Commission and the UK Permanent Representation. (MB)