Starmer Seeks To Rebuild UK-Ireland Ties During Dublin Visit

Taoiseach Simon Harris and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met in Dublin, focusing on the vital task of revitalising and deepening the relationship between Ireland and the UK. This visit marks the first official engagement of a British prime minister in Dublin since Boris Johnson’s visit in 2019 amidst the Brexit negotiations.

In a significant step forward, Harris and Starmer have announced the establishment of an annual summit, set to commence next March. This summit aims to foster ongoing dialogue and cooperation between the two nations.

The leaders convened for a working lunch at Farmleigh House, followed by a roundtable discussion with prominent Irish business figures. Starmer highlighted the importance of their meeting, noting that their formal engagement, the second in just nine weeks, underscores their commitment to renewing and enhancing bilateral relations.

“This meeting demonstrates our sincere intent to reset and deepen the relationship between our two countries, which will benefit both Ireland and the UK,” Starmer remarked at Farmleigh.

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Harris extended a warm welcome to Starmer, describing him as a personal friend. He expressed his gratitude for Starmer’s visit, acknowledging the productive conversations they’ve had since his appointment. Harris emphasised their shared goal to chart a new course for UK-Irish relations, focusing on practical outcomes for their citizens.

“We must embed this reset in a foundation of peace, prosperity, mutual respect, and friendship,” Harris stated. He reiterated their crucial role as co-guarantors of the Northern Ireland peace process.

The leaders also attended the Republic of Ireland vs. England UEFA Nations League match at Aviva Stadium. Despite the competitive nature of the game, Harris and Starmer expressed optimism about their renewed diplomatic efforts, joking about the match’s intensity but affirming their commitment to ongoing cooperation.

A heartwarming moment of their visit included meeting nine-year-old Freddie Munnelly from Castleknock, Dublin, who had previously received a liver transplant in the UK. Freddie gifted both leaders scarves representing their respective countries and predicted a one-all draw for the match.

The discussions at Farmleigh also covered pressing international issues, including the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. Starmer emphasised the importance of standing united against Russian aggression and supporting Ukraine. He also called for a ceasefire in Gaza to facilitate humanitarian aid and work towards a two-state solution for lasting peace in the Middle East.

In parallel, Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn addressed the annual British-Irish Association Conference in Oxfordshire, marking a “new chapter” in UK-Irish relations.

Benn reaffirmed the UK government’s commitment to the 1998 Good Friday Agreement and underscored the necessity for the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive to function effectively without further interruptions. This commitment follows a two-year suspension of the power-sharing institutions, which were restored in February after a period of political uncertainty.

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As both governments look to strengthen their ties and address significant regional and global challenges, this renewed focus on collaboration and mutual respect aims to pave the way for a more positive and productive relationship between Ireland and the UK.

Labour has committed to repealing and replacing the Legacy Act, a pledge that Benn has taken seriously. He has actively engaged with families of Troubles victims to understand their concerns and to ensure that any new measures will better serve their interests.

Benn emphasised his dedication to collaborating with Tánaiste Micheál Martin to dismantle the existing Act and work towards a more effective approach.

Benn highlighted the need for reforms that enhance the independence and authority of the newly established Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery, the body created by the Act to address the legacy issues.

He believes that strengthening this commission is crucial to ensuring that it can operate with the necessary autonomy and powers to achieve meaningful outcomes.