Full text of the statement by Taoiseach Brian Cowen at Hillsborough Castle today:
I want to thank the First and Deputy First Ministers for the very positive and encouraging report which they have presented to us today.
The agreement that has been reached provides the basis for the future stability and success of the democratic institutions which we have all worked so hard to create.
Fair and balanced compromises were required so that gaps could be bridged and different perspectives accommodated.
The completion of the devolution of policing and justice in a matter of weeks is an essential step for peace, stability and security in Northern Ireland.
It consolidates the operation of devolved government and closes the circle in the transformation of policing structures in Northern Ireland.
I also welcome the agreement on a way forward on parades.
An enhanced framework, implemented by agreement, offers the prospect of respecting, and equitably balancing the rights of everybody.
I want to congratulate all of the parties around the table that contributed to this positive outcome.
The leadership displayed by the First and Deputy First Minister, and their respective party colleagues, was instrumental in achieving the agreement that has been reached.
I also want to acknowledge the wisdom and leadership of all of the other party leaders – Reg, Mark, David, Dawn, and their teams – in helping us all to reach this outcome. The quality of that engagement has certainly reinforced my view that the devolved institutions can and will work and deliver good government for the people of Northern Ireland.
The agreement reached presents a real opportunity to renew the partnership which is the life blood of the devolved institutions.
The people of Northern Ireland yearn for this constructive partnership to deliver tangible outcomes that improve their lives.
The Irish Government is committed to working with the Northern Ireland Executive and the British Government to achieve these positive outcomes for all of the people we represent.
When I spoke here last week, I said that what was needed was for the parties to recover the spirit of the Agreement; that vision of a better future for the all the people of these islands.
That better future must be built on mutual respect for people of different traditions; equality and tolerance; and respect for each others political aspirations and cultural expression and inheritance.
That includes respect for the Irish language and for those who treasure it as part of their cultural heritage. In this regard, we look forward to further progress in implementing the relevant commitments in the St Andrews Agreement.
It also includes respect for Ulster Scots, and indeed for all aspects of our rich traditions on this island.
We are very fortunate to enjoy the rich tapestry which has been woven from all of the history, cultures and traditions on this island.
We must continue to work for reconciliation and partnership, to protect and nurture all that we hold dear – our beliefs, our traditions and, above all, the new relationships that have grown from the peace process.
We also look forward to the implementation of outstanding commitments relating to the establishment of the North South Parliamentary Forum and the North South Consultative Forum, and the completion of the St. Andrews Review of North South Co-operation.
I wish to pay particular tribute to the Secretary of State and the Minister for Foreign Affairs for the enormous efforts they have invested in facilitating today’s outcome.
Finally, I wish to thank the Prime Minister for the extraordinary commitment he has shown in making today’s agreement possible.
Above all, I commend you – the political leaders of Northern Ireland – for the courage and determination you have shown in stretching yourselves to reach this agreement.
I recommit my Government to work tirelessly in the future to help build on your achievements and to make a better future for us all.