Stormont: 'a great day' for Northern Ireland - Chris Heaton-Harris
He addressed media in the Great Hall in Stormont
Last updated 3rd Feb 2024
Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris has described a "great day for Northern Ireland".
He addressed media in the Great Hall in Stormont following the nomination of First Minister Michelle O'Neill, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Speaker Edwin Poots.
"It's a great day for Northern Ireland, it's a great day for everyone here, a great day for businesses across this place and public services here," he said.
Our Political Reporter JAMES GOULD spoke to Mr Heaton-Harris in Stormont's Great Hall.
Asked if he believed the Assembly and Executive would stay functioning, Mr Heaton-Harris said he is confident devolved government in Northern Ireland is "sustainable in the very long term".
"I just heard two fantastic speeches from the First Minister and Deputy First Minister," he said.
"I know what has been going on behind the scenes here as well.
"I am extremely confident that this will be sustainable in the very long term."
Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheal Martin also said he looks forward to an "early meeting of the North-South Ministerial Council (NSMC).
"The NSMC will play a key role in the period ahead in making sure that we make the most of shared opportunities, including supporting the all-island economy, which continues to be a source of prosperity, growth, and livelihoods for many from all communities across this island," he said.
"Northern Ireland's unique position as part of the UK internal market while, at the same time, having unique access to the EU's single market of nearly 450 million people provides a solid opportunity for growth.
"It will now be for the Executive and Assembly to ensure that Northern Ireland can prosper and grow using these unrivalled opportunities."
Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheal Martin has hailed a "special day for the people of Northern Ireland" as devolved government is revived.
The Tanaiste also congratulated the First Minister Michelle O'Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly on their appointments.
"I wish them both well in what will be very demanding roles. I look forward to working with them, and with their Executive colleagues," he said.
"I also want to congratulate Edwin Poots on his election as Speaker of the Assembly."
Mr Martin said Northern Ireland "faces a number of real challenges".