Minister Byrne welcomes UK Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne, today (12 November) welcomed UK Minister for the Constitution and European Union Relations, Nick Thomas-Symonds, to Dublin. The meeting was an opportunity to reflect on the EU-UK relationship, and to take stock of bilateral relations.

In welcoming Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds to Dublin, Minister Byrne said: “We are in a positive new chapter in the EU-UK relationship following the first successful EU-UK Summit in May. Continued momentum is key if we are to make the most of the opportunities this presents, for the citizens of Ireland and the EU, and the UK. We want to see swift progress on giving effect to Summit outcomes, recognising that delivery across the overall package is important.

“As the EU and UK work together on this new agenda for cooperation, implementation of existing agreements, including full, timely, and faithful implementation of Windsor Framework remains vital.”

The Ministers also discussed bilateral relations, with Minister Byrne emphasising: “I am pleased we have seen a renewal in the British-Irish relationship, rooted in our commitment to the Good Friday Agreement and supported by an ambitious programme of practical cooperation agreed at the first UK Ireland Summit in Liverpool in March. As with relations with the EU, we look forward to continued delivery on that for citizens across these islands in the time ahead."

ENDS

Press Office

12 November 2025