Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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25. To ask the Taoiseach if he will report on his most recent discussions with the UK Prime Minister. [43738/21]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I spoke by telephone with Prime Minister Johnson on 20th July, in light of the cancellation of our meeting planned for the previous day, for COVID reasons.

We discussed the Northern Ireland Protocol and I stressed the importance of utilising the EU-UK framework for issues related to the Protocol. The EU has consistently said it is ready to find flexible, practical approaches to address the difficulties citizens and businesses in Northern Ireland are experiencing as regards the implementation of the Protocol.

However, any solutions must take place within the framework of the Protocol and the principles that underpin it.

We also exchanged views on the Covid-19 situation, especially in regard to the Delta variant.

I also raised legacy issues, including serious concerns at the British Government’s proposals and the impact they would have on victims and families. I emphasised that there can be no pre-determined outcome to the consultation process currently underway.

We both looked forward to an opportunity to meet in person in the future.

Previously, I met with Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Chequers on Friday 14th May.

On that occasion, our discussions focused on ways our two Governments can continue to work together to support all the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement and promote peace and prosperity on both a North/South and East/West basis. We also discussed issues around implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The Prime Minister and I spoke about legacy issues, and of how best to secure progress and answers for the many families who have been pursuing truth and justice now for far too many years.

I was clear with the Prime Minister that every family bereaved in the conflict should have access to an effective investigation and to a process of justice, regardless of the perpetrator.

The Stormont House Agreement framework allows for the crucial elements we need – investigations, truth recovery, oral history, reconciliation and acknowledgement.