Simon Harris has welcomed the opportunity for a “great reset” in Anglo-Irish relations following Labour’s victory in yesterday’s election.
Keir Starmer’s party has won a famous victory and there will be a Labour majority of around 170 seats.
Rishi Sunak will soon visit Buckingham Palace to formally tender his resignation to King Charles, after which Mr Starmer will be asked to form a Government.
Speaking outside Government Buildings, the Taoiseach sent his “warmest congratulations” to Mr Starmer and his colleagues.
“I want to congratulate him, his family, his staff and his candidates,” Mr Harris said.
“As Taoiseach, I look forward to working together as close neighbours and as friends.
“The relationship between Ireland and the United Kingdom is deeply consequential for all people across these islands and the relationship between an Irish Taoiseach and a British Prime Minister is vital.
“Today is about looking forward; it’s about realising the full potential of that relationship.”
My statement from Government Buildings this morning on the election of @Keir_Starmer as British Prime Minister.
As a new Taoiseach I want to work closely with the new Prime Minister to bring about a major reset of Anglo Irish relations. pic.twitter.com/DzKKRCB967— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) July 5, 2024
Mr Harris said Ireland and Britain are in many ways “family” due to a shared history and culture.
“It is time for a great reset,” he said.
“[In] the Labour Party manifesto, the language towards Ireland was language of partnership and of co-guarantors of our shared peace.
“This morning from Dublin, I want to send a message to London that I will match Keir Starmer’s commitment and energy to our peace process and to our future potential in so many areas.”
'No tears'
In Northern Ireland, Sinn Féin has emerged as the largest party with seven seats.
On Newstalk Breakfast this morning, Mary Lou McDonald said she would “cry no tears” that the Conservative party had lost power.
“I mean, they’ve inflicted very serious damage not least on public service provision north of the border,” she said.
“Keir Starmer’s coming in with a very significant majority, he has the political space now and the political opportunity to carry out that reset.
“He should start with the repeal of the Legacy legislation and then we need to work together - all of us - because change is afoot.”
Deputy McDonald added she looked forward to working with Mr Starmer and Hilary Benn who is expected to be appointed as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.
Main image: Simon Harris. Image by: Sasko Lazarov/RollingNews
