MacManus calls on new Executive and EU to engage on cross border initiatives

Sinn Féin MEP Chris MacManus has called on ministers in the new Executive in the North of Ireland and the EU to engage on cross border initiatives. MacManus was speaking at a European Parliament debate on cross-border mechanisms.

MacManus said:

“As someone who grew up near Britain’s border in Ireland, I know the administrative and economic hurdles as well as the societal hardship this border imposed on our communities. Therefore, I fully recognise and appreciate the importance of cross-border cooperation. 

“The weekend’s events which saw a new executive established in the north of Ireland must mean that the north-south bodies can work together for the benefit of all the people of Ireland. I therefore believe that it is time for the EU institutions to engage more actively with citizens north of the British border in Ireland.

“That means that each Minister in the new Executive, should engage fully with the EU to see what benefits, co-operation on the island with the EU could bring for workers and families. I urge the Executive to have an open door to the EU’s many excellent cross-border initiatives and programmes. ENDS