Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Notwithstanding the current election campaign in the UK, certain aspects of the agreement are still being progressed. I point specifically to the areas of agreement involving the preparation of legislation, north and south of the Border and in Westminster. I assure the House in particular that legislation incumbent on the Irish Department of Justice and Equality is progressing and I am in constant contact with my colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Frances Fitzgerald.

I reiterate my disappointment that difficulties have arisen around the welfare element of the Stormont House Agreement. Deputy Smith makes particular reference to one of the parties involved, namely, Sinn Féin. I have discussed this issue with Sinn Féin. I have strongly expressed the view that the implementation of all the provisions of the agreement are important, and I will continue to do so. I regret that difficulties have arisen in this area.

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