Enda Kenny has called on political leaders in the North of Ireland engaged in cross-party negotiations to come to an agreement before the Christmas deadline.
The Taoiseach was speaking today following a review of progress in the North’s talks, which have been taking place over the last seven weeks.
Following on from last year’s Haass talks, among the issues being discussed is how best to deal with the legacy of the Troubles as well as financial and budgetary matters affecting the North.
“I recognise that complex and difficult issues remain to be addressed,” he said. “However, politics – and political leaders – have to now focus on delivering an agreement for all the people, even if that requires difficult negotiation and compromise.”
He added: “The window is narrowing and I urge all the parties to intensify their efforts in the immediate period ahead and seize the opportunity to secure an agreement.”
Following a report from Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan, the Taoiseach acknowledged that progress had been made in the negotiations.
He also noted that “all parties have expressed their strong support for the talks to continue and intensify”.
Prime Minister David Cameron also pledged the British Government’s support, while acknowledging that there were “complex and difficult” issues to tackle.
“I recognise the scale of the task that lies ahead,” he said.
“The UK Government will do all it can to support the parties in their efforts to reach agreement and I am satisfied that we have done so thus far. I urge the parties to continue in their endeavours and look forward to a further report on progress in the near future.”
Since October 16 a series of meetings and engagements involving all Executive Parties and both the British and Irish Governments have been taking place.
Speaking previously Minister Flanagan said: “A fair, balanced, overarching framework for dealing with the past is a necessary element of reconciliation.
"It was the subject of intensive discussions during the talks last year chaired by Dr Richard Haass and considerable progress was made during that time. We need now to build on that work.”
He added: “Substantial progress has been made across a range of areas, but there is very significant work yet to be done.”
See More: North Of Ireland, Talks
