Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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829. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding the recent announcement that the Irish and British Governments are to initiate all-party talks to resolve outstanding issues facing the political process in the North of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37618/14]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Political talks began on 16 October. The British and Irish Governments convened the current talks in order to address a number of key issues that have badly impacted on the reconciliation agenda and on economic renewal in Northern Ireland, including budgetary and financial issues, legacy issues (parades, flags and identity, dealing with the past), the working of the political institutions and outstanding commitments from the Good Friday and St. Andrews Agreements. Discussions have now taken place on each of these streams.

Since the 16 October, the Government has met with all of the Northern Ireland Executive Parties and with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, as well as with representatives of civil society. On 30 October, Minister of State Sherlock and I met with Senator Hart, who travelled to Belfast in his capacity as Secretary of State Kerry’s Personal Representative.

Progress is being made in the talks. The Irish Government is committed to doing everything possible to ensure that a comprehensive deal is reached that will deliver a positive outcome for people in Northern Ireland and throughout this island.