(No. 58 – February 5, 2010 – 8 p.m. ET) The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, issued the following statement welcoming the agreement reached today in Belfast regarding the devolution of justice and policing powers to the Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly:
“Canada congratulates the Northern Ireland Executive and the people of Northern Ireland for the historic agreement signed today at Hillsborough Castle in Belfast.
“This agreement represents a vital step in the long journey toward peace in Northern Ireland. It reflects the steadfast commitment by Northern Ireland’s political leadership to work together in the spirit of partnership, mutual respect and equality, which remains vital to the future of Northern Ireland.
“I would also like to commend the personal leadership displayed by British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Irish Taoiseach Brian Cowen in helping to bring about this important outcome for all the people of Northern Ireland.”
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