Tánaiste to visit Belfast on Monday May 19

Tánaiste Simon Harris will visit Belfast today to meet with a number of party leaders.

With discussions ongoing between the Irish and British Governments on reform of the UK Legacy Act, legacy issues are expected to be the focus of today’s discussions.

Speaking ahead of the meetings, the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade said: “Today’s meetings are an opportunity to get the perspectives of party leaders on a number of issues, including around legacy.

“I have been consistent in my view that the UK Legacy Act, as it stands, is not fit for purpose. I am in ongoing discussions with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on this matter and look forward to further talks in the period ahead.

“As these discussions intensify, it is important for me to hear directly from political parties in Northern Ireland, as we try to move to a better place. I am also listening carefully to victims, survivors and families affected by the Troubles, some of whom I met with last week, to better understand their perspectives.

“Today‘s meetings take place against the backdrop of the EU-UK Summit in London. Ireland has consistently supported an improved EU-UK relationship that provides certainty and opportunity for people across these islands.”

ENDS

Press Office

18 May 2025