FOREIGN Secretary Philip Hammond will lead the British delegation attending the British-Irish Council Summit in Ireland today.
Hosted by Taoiseach Enda Kenny, the 24th British-Irish Council gathering takes place at Dublin Castle, where delegates will tackle topics relating to all eight members – including improving their respective economies, recognising the links between them and reviewing youth unemployment statistics across the administrations.
“The Council will also discuss the misuse of alcohol, focusing on the economic and social implications of alcohol abuse and the various measures planned to tackle the problem of excessive alcohol consumption,” an Irish government spokesperson confirmed this morning.
At today’s gathering the Northern Ireland Executive will be represented by First Minister Peter Robinson, who suffered a heart attack last month, and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will attend for Scotland, with the Welsh Government represented by First Minister Carwyn Jones.
The Chief Ministers of the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey will also attend the Summit.
“The Council will discuss the continuing improving economic situation in Member Administrations, recognising the interdependence and links between their economies,” the Irish government added.
